Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 4 November 2026

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Pertamina Acquires Stake in Algerian Oil and Gas Fields

Pertamina, through its Algerian affiliate, has agreed to acquire Moeve’s participating interests in three onshore hydrocarbon fields in Algeria’s Berkine Basin. Completion remains subject to ongoing processes, including approval by Algerian authorities; the deal is intended to expand Pertamina’s international upstream portfolio and support Indonesian energy supplies.

Ibas Yudhoyono: Drug Cases Must Expose Supplier Networks

MPR Deputy Speaker Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono says the raid in Kampung Bahari should lead to a sustained crackdown that targets the suppliers, controllers, distribution routes and financial flows behind drug trafficking. He also called for stronger coordination among law-enforcement agencies and tighter surveillance at ports, airports and land and sea borders to prevent drugs entering Indonesia.

Ministry: OASE PTKIN Provides a Platform for Students’ Potential in the Digital Transformation

The Ministry of Religious Affairs says the 2026 OASE competition for state Islamic higher education institutions will help students develop their abilities amid rapid digital transformation and advances in artificial intelligence. Officials expect the event to foster science and research innovation rooted in Islamic and humanitarian values, while strengthening students’ competitiveness and collaboration.

North Korea says Binance hacking allegations show US hostility

Kim Yo Jong has described allegations linking North Korea to the Binance hack as part of Washington’s unchanged hostile policy towards Pyongyang. The FBI has alleged a North Korean connection but, according to the report, US authorities have provided no supporting evidence; Binance founder Changpeng Zhao said users’ funds remained safe despite an estimated US$6.3 billion in affected crypto assets.

Gus Ipul: People Working at Sekolah Rakyat Must Act with Discipline and Follow a Code of Ethics

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf said staff at Sekolah Rakyat must uphold discipline, empathy and professional ethics, given the diverse and disadvantaged backgrounds of its pupils. Training for 839 security personnel, case managers and data operators also covered child protection, case handling and education data, while the minister warned that anyone responsible for bullying, violence or intolerance would be dismissed.

Galaxy Z Fold9 and Fold9 Ultra camera specifications leaked

A technology leaker says Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold9 will retain a 50-megapixel main and ultra-wide camera setup, but use a new main sensor. The Fold9 Ultra is expected to keep a higher-resolution camera system with telephoto zoom, although details of its telephoto resolution remain unclear.

PGE targets signing electricity sale and purchase agreement with PLN in December 2026

Pertamina Geothermal Energy (PGE) expects to sign a new power purchase agreement with PLN in December 2026 for two geothermal co-generation projects with a combined capacity of 45 MW. The deal would mark PGE’s first new PPA in more than a decade, with the agreement’s substantive terms settled and legal teams completing final proofreading.

A Week with the iPhone Duo: What the Most Expensive Foldable Phone Is Really Like

Apple’s first foldable, the iPhone Duo, combines premium materials, a nearly crease-free inner display and new multitasking features, but costs Rp45 million to Rp75 million in Indonesia. A week-long hands-on review finds its cameras and battery adequate for everyday and social-media use, while noting limitations including its weight, two-app Split View and lack of a dedicated telephoto lens.

Gibran’s Visit Seen as Boosting Farmers’ Economy and Tolerance

Public policy observer M Kafrawy Saenong says Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s visit to West Sulawesi combined efforts to address cocoa farmers’ concerns with a message of religious tolerance. Farmers raised issues including subsidised fertiliser, infrastructure and sharply lower cocoa prices, while Gibran pledged coordination with the Agriculture Ministry.

Senator Menyapa 2026 to Discuss Regional Aspirations Tomorrow

CNN Indonesia and the Regional Representative Council (DPD RI) will hold a discussion marking 22 years of the council and examining its role in representing regional interests. Speakers will assess whether its recommendations have led to concrete policy responses and discuss regional development opportunities, including in food and the economy.

BPOM Pursues Innovation and Vaccine Self-Sufficiency to Address the Vaccine Gap

Indonesia’s Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) is seeking to accelerate vaccine innovation and widen equitable access, while helping research move from laboratories into usable products. It is drafting a conditional approval framework to speed access to new vaccines and medicines without compromising safety, efficacy or quality, and hopes stronger research and industry partnerships will support domestic vaccine production.

Health Ministry Urges Health Workers to Stop Treating Patients if Harassed, Following Bantul Case

Indonesia’s Health Ministry says health workers may suspend medical services if they face harassment or other disruption, once any emergency has been addressed. The ministry also called on healthcare facility leaders to provide effective protections and complaint channels, with working-hour management and staff welfare to factor into accreditation assessments.

Central Java Deputy Governor Plans Infiltration Pits to Restore Mount Muria’s Ecology

Central Java Deputy Governor Taj Yasin is promoting infiltration pits in Mount Muria’s forests to slow rainwater runoff, replenish springs and support ecological recovery. The 9,445-hectare area was designated a grand forest park in April 2026, amid concern that nearly 80 per cent of 116 documented springs have dried up and that forest conversion is harming the watershed.

Undana and Kupang Regency Government Push for Forest to Become Dryland Research Site

Nusa Cendana University (Undana) and the Kupang Regency Government are seeking special-purpose forest status for 497.43 hectares in Oesusu village to support research, education and conservation of island dryland ecosystems. The proposed site would serve as NTT’s first natural laboratory for island drylands and provide field-based learning for 449 forestry students.

Febrie Adriansyah Says Some Prosecutors Handling His Case Were His Subordinates

Former deputy attorney-general for special crimes Febrie Adriansyah told the Jakarta Corruption Court that some prosecutors handling his own case had previously worked under him. He denied knowing the witnesses and said his past handling of cases was professional, while prosecutors accuse him of extortion and money laundering involving assets worth hundreds of billions of rupiah.

Purchasing Power Under Pressure as Automotive Market Trends Shift in 2026

LCGC sales have fallen by 7–11 per cent in 2026, but Astra executives attribute the decline to changing consumer preferences rather than tighter credit or rising loan defaults. With purchasing power under pressure, buyers are becoming more price-conscious and prioritising total ownership costs, while some move from entry-level LCGCs to higher vehicle classes and others trade down to more affordable options.

Kim Jong Un Grows More Aggressive as North Korea ‘Fires Off’ Missiles

North Korea has launched missiles towards waters off its east coast, its fourth weapons test in a month, amid a broader expansion of military activity. Analysts say the repeated tests may signal preparations for mass production, potentially including exports to Russia, while tensions with the United States and South Korea remain high.

Indonesia and China Agree to Strengthen Agricultural Cooperation

Indonesia and China have agreed to broaden agricultural cooperation, including garlic production, technology transfer, research, trade and investment in agro-processing. The partnership aims to reduce Indonesia’s reliance on imported garlic while boosting domestic production, productivity and the value of its agricultural exports.

Bamsoet Backs Prabowo in Strengthening the Consolidation of Power to Address National Challenges

Presidential Advisory Council member Bambang Soesatyo has urged President Prabowo Subianto to consolidate government control and coordination to tackle economic pressures, strengthen law enforcement and national security, and improve food and energy resilience. He also called for an investigation into alleged illegal interception of the President’s communications, while stressing that consolidation must remain within constitutional limits and preserve legal independence and public participation.

Central Aceh Prepares Personnel and Equipment for Possible Further Disasters

Central Aceh’s Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) is keeping personnel and emergency equipment on standby while rehabilitation and reconstruction continue after the flash floods and landslides of late November 2025. Residents in flood- and landslide-prone areas have been urged to remain alert, as recovery work includes permanent housing, landslide repairs, river clearance and irrigation-channel cleaning.

Ministry outlines efforts to address healthcare workforce needs

Indonesia’s Health Ministry has outlined measures to address healthcare workforce shortages, including data-driven planning, special assignments to priority regions and scholarships for students from underserved areas. The initiatives will inform a 2026–2035 workforce management blueprint, with a focus on improving distribution in remote, border and island regions where shortages are most acute.

Food Affairs Coordinating Minister inspects waste-to-energy project in Palembang

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan says Palembang’s nearly Rp3 trillion waste-to-energy project has entered operational trials, with electricity already connected to the PLN grid and output exceeding its initial target. The project is 98.5 per cent complete and is expected to be inaugurated in December 2026, turning up to 1,100 tonnes of daily waste into power while providing local jobs.

Religious Affairs Ministry Wants AICIS+ to Showcase Islamic Universities’ Responses to Social Challenges

The Religious Affairs Ministry wants the 2026 AICIS+ conference to highlight how state Islamic universities can address community challenges through interdisciplinary research, science and technology. Organisers are prioritising stronger research, useful innovations and follow-up publication of conference papers, alongside broader international academic and diplomatic links.

Basarnas ends Virgo ferry search, with 53 people still missing

Indonesia’s search and rescue agency has ended its 53-day operation after the Virgo Transport 8 ferry accident, having found 190 people: 108 survivors and 82 dead. Fifty-three people remain missing; Basarnas said monitoring would continue and credible new information could prompt further searches, while salvage work on the wreckage remains underway.

Bamsoet backs President Prabowo’s efforts to strengthen government consolidation

Presidential Advisory Council member Bambang Soesatyo has urged President Prabowo Subianto to strengthen coordination across government to speed up responses to national challenges. He cited economic pressures and the need for effective budget oversight, while stressing that consolidation must remain within constitutional limits and protect legal independence and public participation.

WIKA Secures Rp9.78tn in New Contracts Through September 2026, Up 57.9%

State-owned contractor Wijaya Karya (WIKA) booked Rp9.78 trillion in new contracts through September 2026, a 57.9% increase year on year. The company says it is prioritising projects with clear funding and sound payment arrangements as part of its financial recovery, while a steel-plant revamp contract is expected to boost domestic production capacity.

TNI Troop Deployment to Jakarta: Yusril Says Capital’s Security Situation Is ‘Normal’

Co-ordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra said Jakarta’s security situation remained normal and that he could not explain the recent large-scale TNI deployment, which falls under the authority of the defence minister and military commander. The Indonesian Navy plans to deploy 20,980 personnel in stages to strengthen security and respond to developments in the capital.

Government to Sell 380,000 Tonnes of Broken Rice at Rp11,000 per Kilogram

The government will sell 380,000 tonnes of broken rice held by state logistics agency Bulog at Rp11,000 per kilogram, giving food manufacturers and other small businesses an alternative to imported supplies. It will also release 100,000–150,000 tonnes of maize at cost to small-scale poultry farmers to help contain feed expenses and keep chicken and egg prices in check.

Gold Necklace Snatcher Strikes Twice in Central Jakarta, Leaving Victims Shaken

Two men on a motorbike allegedly snatched necklaces from two people on Jalan Samanhudi in Central Jakarta at about 6.30am, with one victim falling and sustaining minor injuries. Police have received a report, provided initial medical treatment and are searching for CCTV clues; one 20-gram necklace was taken, while another, weighing 100 grams, was damaged but largely recovered.

Neither the US nor China: This Country Is the World’s Biggest Oil Consumer Per Capita

Singapore ranks first globally for oil consumption per person, at 93.63 barrels a year, according to the Eni World Energy Review 2026. The figure reflects its role as a major international ship-fuelling hub and small population, rather than unusually high household use; Indonesia records 2.47 barrels per capita.

Jokowi to Testify in Fake Diploma Case as East Jakarta District Court Caps Attendance at 80

The East Jakarta District Court will limit courtroom attendance to 80 for a hearing in the case involving allegations that former president Joko Widodo’s diploma was forged, at which Widodo is due to testify. The court says the hearing remains open to the public on an equal basis, while police have prepared three layers of security to maintain order.

Viral Tax Officers Visit Warteg; MSME Minister Responds

Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Maman Abdurrahman said reports of tax officers visiting small warteg eateries may stem from an administrative error. He reiterated that micro-enterprises with annual turnover of up to Rp500 million are exempt from tax, and said the rule applies nationwide.

KPK Investigates Nusron Wahid’s Authority Over Land Certification and Alleged Payments for Appointments

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid as a witness in an alleged corruption case at his ministry. Investigators asked about his authority over land certification and building-use rights, as well as alleged regular payments, payments for appointments and money received by people described as his confidants.

ESDM Praises CCEP Indonesia for Supporting the National Energy Transition

The Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry has praised Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Indonesia for expanding renewable energy use at its Bekasi-2 production facility. Its new 1.4 MWp rooftop solar installation is expected to cut emissions by 1.89 tonnes of CO₂e a year, illustrating the role of private-sector partnerships in industrial decarbonisation.

Seraya Timur’s KNMP to Become a Driver of Karangasem’s Coastal Economy

The Fisheries Ministry says the Seraya Timur Red and White Fishing Village (KNMP) is being developed as a driver of the coastal economy, integrating fisheries businesses while improving productivity and fishers’ incomes sustainably. The ministry has also distributed assistance and training, and says 100 KNMP sites are operating in 2026.

Budi Arie Says Jokowi Retains Political Clout Despite Leaving Presidency: ‘Still Trusted by the People’

PROJO chairman Budi Arie Setiadi says former president Joko Widodo retains a strong base of loyal voters and grassroots support after leaving office. He argues that Jokowi’s political influence rests on public trust built over years, rather than on formal power or political resources.

Health Ministry Makes AAAH a Platform to Address Asia-Pacific Health Workforce Imbalances

Indonesia’s Health Ministry is using the Asia-Pacific Action Alliance on Human Resources for Health (AAAH) to coordinate regional efforts to address the uneven distribution of health workers, a problem shared across the region. Representatives from 22 member countries agreed on a framework built around governance and leadership, transformative education and welfare, and digital transformation, while also stressing responsible cross-border mobility that protects workers and avoids worsening shortages in their home countries.

InJourney targets passenger growth of up to 4% over the Christmas and New Year holiday period

InJourney Airports expects passenger numbers to rise by 3–4% during the 2026/2027 Christmas and New Year holiday period, building on the 158 million passengers it handled last year. The airport operator is preparing for increased traffic with the Transport Ministry, and will cut passenger service charges by 50% on domestic departures from 22 December 2026 to 10 January 2027.

Investment in Jakarta Creates Job Opportunities for 440,744 People

Jakarta recorded Rp249.3 trillion in investment from January to September 2026, up 22.1 per cent year on year, and the capital accounted for 16.2 per cent of national investment. The investment supported 440,744 Indonesian jobs, while officials and lawmakers stressed the need to channel further growth into local employment through skills training, better services and strategic-sector development.

Logo marking 50 years of US–ASEAN dialogue relations launched

The United States and ASEAN have unveiled a logo to mark 50 years of dialogue relations, which began on 8 September 1977. The relationship has since developed into a strategic partnership spanning areas of mutual interest.

Citizenship Status Confirmation Cases Remain High as Response Efforts Are Stepped Up

Indonesia’s Ministry of Law says 1,088 people have received confirmation of their Indonesian citizenship status, including children of cross-border families. However, the scale of need remains substantial, with around 17,000 undocumented Indonesian citizens in Malaysia and about 900 applications in Davao still awaiting further review.

Murder Suspect’s House in Indramayu Attacked by Angry Crowd

A crowd attacked the home of a suspect accused of robbing and murdering Komariah, a 45-year-old housewife, in Indramayu. Her husband praised police for making an arrest within 24 hours and urged investigators to consider a charge of premeditated murder as well as violent robbery.

Tourism Ministry targets European market with quality tourism in London

Indonesia’s Tourism Ministry is using World Travel Market London 2026 to promote higher-quality, authentic and sustainable travel experiences to European visitors. The programme includes business meetings and efforts to spread tourism’s economic benefits across priority and regenerative destinations, while strengthening services and industry partnerships.

Indonesia’s Food and Beverage Industry Still Expected to Grow in 2026

Indonesia’s food and beverage industry is forecast to expand by 6%–6.5% by the end of 2026, following 6.51% growth in the first half of the year. The industry association remains optimistic but is monitoring the proposed excise on packaged sugary drinks, which could affect product prices and consumer purchasing power.

Batang to Base Sekolah Rakyat Recruitment on Findings from the Field

Batang Regency will identify prospective Sekolah Rakyat pupils through field visits and recommendations from local community leaders and village heads, rather than an open application process. The programme is initially expected to accommodate 270 pupils across primary, junior secondary and senior secondary levels, with classes targeted to begin next year.

KPK Says It May Question Nusron Wahid Again

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) said it may question Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid again in an investigation into alleged bribery involving land-use rights and other payments at the ministry. Investigators questioned him about his ministerial powers, appointments and alleged payments received by people close to him, as they seek to complete files on eight suspects.

ShopeePay and SPayLater Announce Three Winners of Batik Design Competition

ShopeePay and SPayLater have named the three winners of their 2026 ‘Corak Cerita Nusantara’ batik design competition, which attracted about 80 entries from across Indonesia. The winning design is set to be developed with local batik artisans for potential use in company uniforms and merchandise, creating opportunities for collaboration with local creatives and craftspeople.

7 Key Points from the Palace on the Alleged Wiretapping of the President by a Former National Police Chief

The Palace says President Prabowo Subianto is deeply concerned by allegations that senior police officers, including former National Police chief Listyo Sigit Prabowo, illegally tapped his phone and those of other public figures. Listyo has been dismissed as Presidential Chief of Staff, while the government says the alleged conduct may threaten state interests and that the police investigation will establish the motive and the contents of intercepted communications.

BSI targets expansion of sharia payroll services across state-owned enterprise ecosystem

Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) plans to expand payroll services among state-owned enterprises, seeing them as a way to attract low-cost deposits and build longer-term customer relationships. Payroll accounts grew 18.5% year to date by September 2026, while the bank reported Rp389 trillion in third-party funds by August, including Rp246 trillion in low-cost CASA deposits.

Djarum Case: KPK May Conduct Further Searches

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says it may search additional locations as it investigates alleged irregularities involving cigarette excise stamps and PT Djarum. The investigation remains at an early stage under a general investigation warrant issued in September, with no suspects named and witness examinations not yet scheduled; an earlier search reportedly uncovered suspected state losses worth trillions of rupiah.