Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 5 November 2026

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Creative Economy Minister Says Digital Sector Is a New Creative Economy Opportunity in Cirebon

Creative Economy Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya identified digital businesses as a growing opportunity for Cirebon’s creative economy, alongside fashion, food, crafts and handicrafts. He cited applications supporting writers and helping micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), and said the IDE.IND programme is intended to strengthen local creative communities and help businesses turn ideas into commercially valuable products.

Both Pursuing Ambitious Goals, South Korea Eyes Indonesia’s Renewable Energy Potential

South Korea is seeking to deepen clean-energy cooperation with Indonesia, whose 100 GWp solar ambition could create opportunities in generation, batteries, transmission and related technologies. The article highlights South Korea’s own deployment and grid challenges, while experts say Indonesia must prepare transparent, bankable projects to attract investment that could approach or exceed US$100 billion when storage and transmission are included.

Danantara to Make Major Investment in Defence Equipment and National Car Projects

State-owned enterprises body BP BUMN and sovereign investment agency Danantara plan substantial investment to expand Indonesia’s defence equipment and national car industries. COO Dony Oskaria said projects should use the latest technology, increase production capacity and strengthen domestic manufacturing rather than leave Indonesia as a technology follower.

Man in Bogor Electrocuted While Putting Up Banner, Firefighters Carry Out Rescue

A furniture shop owner was electrocuted while putting up a banner outside his shop in Leuwiliang, Bogor. Firefighters rescued him in a 10-minute operation after local residents reported the incident; the situation was later declared under control.

Central Jakarta DWP Combines Shibori and Betawi Batik in DKI Fashion Show

The Central Jakarta branch of Dharma Wanita Persatuan won third place in a DKI Jakarta provincial fashion show with designs combining Japanese shibori tie-dye and Betawi batik. Organisers said the event, involving about 37 participants, aimed to encourage creativity while preserving and promoting Betawi cultural heritage.

Riau’s Human Development Index reaches 76.91 in 2026, BPS says

Riau’s Human Development Index rose to 76.91 in 2026, up 0.60 points (0.79%) from the previous year and above the national score of 76.59. The province ranked fourth highest in Sumatra, with gains reflected in health and education indicators.

KSPSI Removes Listyo Sigit as Chair of its Advisory Board

The Indonesian Trade Union Confederation (KSPSI) has dismissed former National Police chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo as chair of its advisory board after he was named a suspect in an alleged illegal wiretapping case involving President Prabowo Subianto. KSPSI said the alleged offence was serious, distanced the labour movement from the case and revoked the appointment decree issued in 2025.

Students from Sekolah Rakyat and Jakarta’s SMP 248 invited to explore the Presidential Palace grounds

Two hundred students from SRMA 33 in South Tangerang and SMP Negeri 248 Jakarta visited the Jakarta Presidential Palace through the Istana untuk Anak Sekolah programme. The visit aims to familiarise young people with the country’s presidential history and government environment, while encouraging learning and national awareness.

Strong Winds Hit Before Forest-Firefighting Helicopter Crashes in Central Kalimantan

An Army Aviation crew member who survived the crash of an MI-17 helicopter in Central Kalimantan said sudden strong winds caused the aircraft to lose control during a forest and land-firefighting mission. He was briefly unconscious and suffered shock and fever, but is recovering and was being transferred to Banjarmasin for further medical treatment.

Social Affairs Minister Weighs Expanding Health Premium Assistance to Decile 8, Covering 80% of the Population

The government is considering extending subsidised national health insurance contributions (PBI-JK) to households up to Decile 8, while stressing that eligibility would still depend on verification and would not automatically cover everyone in those groups. Officials are modelling a funding split between central, provincial and local governments, with a new budget scheme potentially proposed in 2027; existing coverage is intended to continue during the transition.

Russia Serious About Developing Space City in Biak, Ready to Build Satellite Launch Infrastructure

Russia says it is ready to help develop space infrastructure in Biak once Indonesia makes a final decision to begin construction, with its embassy offering to facilitate cooperation between the Russian space agency and Indonesia’s BRIN. A forum at the University of Indonesia highlighted Biak’s strategic location and potential, while stressing that any project must protect Indigenous rights and the environment, involve local communities, and deliver benefits for Papua and Indonesia.

PNM and ABPEDNAS Partner to Strengthen Financial Literacy and Promote Economic Empowerment in Villages

State-owned PNM has signed an MoU with the National Association of Village Consultative Bodies (ABPEDNAS) to expand financial literacy and support sustainable village enterprises. The partnership will also map local needs and provide legal education and assistance, advancing the government’s goal of reducing poverty and spreading economic opportunity from the villages upwards.

Crew Member of Helicopter Fighting Forest Fires in Central Kalimantan Still Missing

A crew member of an Army Mi-17 helicopter that crashed during a forest and land fire response mission in Seruyan, Central Kalimantan, remains missing as joint search-and-rescue teams continue their efforts. The BNPB said two personnel were confirmed dead, while others were evacuated for medical care; it added that air and ground support for firefighting operations would not be reduced.

Regional Aspirations Advanced Through Legislation, Oversight and Public Dialogue, Says DPD RI

The Regional Representative Council (DPD RI) says it is advancing regional interests through legislative initiatives, oversight and more focused public engagement. Its chair, Sultan B. Najamudin, said 13,519 public and regional aspirations were collected and followed up during the last session year, while stressing that their impact must be visible in policy and to the public.

Acute Respiratory Infection Cases Linked to Forest and Land Fires Top 401,000, Including 91,000 Children Under Five

Indonesia’s Health Ministry has recorded 401,586 acute respiratory infection cases across seven provinces affected by forest and land fires, including 91,913 among children aged five and under. Air quality in two areas was classified as hazardous, prompting the government to deploy medical supplies and expand health services for affected communities.

Kendari Police Uncover Drug Trafficking, Seize 4.7kg of Methamphetamine and Rp50 Million

Kendari Police have arrested two suspects and seized about 4.7kg of methamphetamine, Rp50 million in cash and other items in a drug-trafficking investigation. Police said the drugs came from a network in Medan and were intended for distribution in two neighbourhoods in Kendari; investigations are continuing to identify the main suppliers.

Indonesia’s Tourism Continues to Grow as Hotel Industry Expands

Indonesia recorded 10.58 million international visitor arrivals in January–August 2026, up 5.3% year on year, while domestic trips reached 842 million. Hotels also reported higher rates and revenue per available room, prompting IHG Hotels & Resorts to strengthen its presence as regional travel demand and connectivity improve.

Government prioritises data security in implementing the One Data Indonesia Law

The government says stronger information security and personal-data protection are priorities as it implements the One Data Indonesia Law. Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid highlighted cryptographic infrastructure, digital certificates and cooperation with the National Cyber and Crypto Agency, alongside clearer rules on data governance, access and institutional responsibilities.

MUI: The faithful need stronger religious literacy to avoid being provoked

The Palu branch of the Indonesian Ulema Council says stronger, comprehensive religious literacy is needed to prevent people being manipulated by decontextualised Qur’anic verses circulated on social media. It urges religious leaders to teach sound methods of interpretation and respect differences in understanding Islam.

IDX Promotes Greater Investment Literacy at CMSE 2026

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX), together with the financial regulator and other market institutions, is holding a three-day Capital Market Summit & Expo to promote informed investing and broaden financial inclusion. The event comes as the number of capital-market investors reaches more than 32.7 million, and features educational sessions, an ESG bond index launch and an exhibition involving over 100 exhibitors.

Bulog Sorong Tightens Oversight of SPHP Rice Sales to Ensure Compliance with Price Ceiling

Bulog’s Sorong branch is conducting surprise inspections with local authorities to ensure its subsidised SPHP rice is sold at the government-set ceiling of Rp13,500 per kilogram. The agency says it has 2,600 tonnes of rice and 444,000 litres of cooking oil in stock, with supplies expected to increase ahead of Christmas and New Year.

Airlangga confirms tax-free income threshold adjustment will not take effect in January 2027

Coordinating Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto says the planned adjustment to the personal income tax-free threshold (PTKP) will not come into force in January 2027, as discussions are still under way. The government is assessing its impact on purchasing power and considering whether to align the threshold with provincial minimum wages.

Asked About Alleged Wiretapping of President Prabowo, Jokowi Says: ‘We Respect the Legal Process’

Joko Widodo said he respects the ongoing legal process concerning an alleged illegal wiretap targeting President Prabowo Subianto. The issue was raised after Jokowi testified as a witness in a defamation case over allegations that his university degree was forged, where former National Police chief Listyo Sigit Prabowo was also mentioned.

Army Chief Says Nearly 19,000 Indonesian Army Personnel Still Involved in Kalimantan Firefighting Mission

Indonesian Army Chief of Staff General Tandyo Budi Revita said 18,989 Army personnel remain deployed to help extinguish forest and land fires in Kalimantan, underscoring the scale of the government response. He made the remarks after attending the funeral of one of three soldiers killed in a helicopter crash during the operation in Central Kalimantan.

Indonesia’s Culture Ministry begins restoring Siak Palace and Balairung Sri in Riau

The Culture Ministry has begun a Rp5 billion restoration of Siak Palace and Balairung Sri Kerapatan Tinggi in Riau, with completion targeted within 65 days. The work will focus on fragile sections and include safeguards for historic artefacts; the palace will close temporarily, while Siak Regency plans visitor rules reflecting Malay customs.

JCI Rises 2.25% to 5,030 as All Stock Sectors Gain

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) climbed 2.25% to 5,030.26 at Thursday’s close, with all sectoral indices ending in positive territory. Trading was broad-based, as 440 shares rose and transaction value reached Rp9.68 trillion.

Japan becomes Indonesia’s largest export destination for sago, says minister

Japan accounted for 14 per cent of its sago starch requirements supplied by Indonesia in 2025, up from 2 per cent in 2021, making it the country’s largest export destination for Indonesian sago. The minister said the growing demand offers opportunities for producers to expand processing and exports, and called for investment and closer Indonesia-Japan industry cooperation to strengthen the domestic sago sector and food sovereignty.

Government prepares to build two internationally standard SNT schools in Jambi

Indonesia’s Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is preparing to build two integrated national schools in Jambi, with estimated funding of about Rp200 billion for each site. The projects are at the planning and tender-budget preparation stage; local authorities have provided land, including a 21-hectare plot in Tanjung Jabung Timur.

Rupiah Strengthens as US Dollar Weakens

The rupiah rose 0.47 per cent to Rp18,082 per US dollar at Thursday’s close, supported by a weaker dollar and falling US Treasury yields, as well as lower oil prices. Stronger-than-expected Indonesian third-quarter growth also bolstered sentiment, although robust US economic data and uncertainty over Federal Reserve policy may keep the currency volatile.

Motorbike Theft Attempt Foiled in Tangerang; Suspect Weeps After Being Beaten by Crowd

Two men were arrested in Neglasari, Tangerang, after residents caught them trying to steal a parked Honda Genio. One suspect was beaten by the crowd, while police later apprehended his accomplice and said the pair admitted to carrying out similar thefts several times.

After Digital Literacy, How Do We Measure Whether We Are Tolerant?

Indonesia has several indices measuring Pancasila values, religious harmony and digital skills, but none regularly assesses how people treat a broad range of differences in online spaces. The author proposes a Digital Tolerance Index spanning individual behaviour and the wider platform and public-sector environment, with independent measurement and detailed reporting to inform policy.

Bulog North Sumatra distributes 3,048 tonnes of SPHP maize to poultry farmers to stabilise prices

Bulog’s North Sumatra office has distributed 3,048 tonnes of maize under the Food Supply and Price Stabilisation (SPHP) programme, completing 84.64 per cent of its allocation to layer farmers. Selling maize at Rp5,000 per kilogram—below the prevailing market price of Rp7,400–Rp7,800—is intended to ease feed costs and help stabilise egg supplies and prices.

Social Affairs Ministry Records 1.05 Million Digital Social Protection Agents Reaching 18.2 Million Families

Indonesia’s Social Affairs Ministry says more than 1.05 million volunteer agents have helped 18.2 million families access its digital social protection data system. The programme aims to improve the accuracy of the national social and economic registry, while eligibility for assistance is determined by a system that cross-checks data from multiple government agencies, not by individual agents or officials.

BULOG and Bapanas Strengthen Support for Micro-scale Farmers with SPHP Maize Distribution and Egg Purchases

BULOG and Indonesia’s National Food Agency (Bapanas) have provided 180 tonnes of subsidised SPHP maize to 18 micro-scale poultry cooperatives and launched a phased egg-purchasing programme worth Rp30 billion through December 2026. The initiative aims to reduce feed costs and guarantee a market for eggs, helping sustain small-scale layer farmers and strengthen the food supply chain.

GENTING Becomes Minister Wihaji’s ‘Weapon’ in Tackling Stunting in Indonesia

The government’s GENTING programme has provided assistance to more than 1.3 million families at risk of stunting, drawing on 182,682 foster-parent partners and Rp96.3 billion in support. At a 2026 summit, the population and family development ministry recognised partners and signed cooperation agreements aimed at accelerating stunting reduction and supporting family-development programmes.

Indonesia opens Sekolah Rakyat to children with disabilities

Indonesia’s Minister of Social Affairs Saifullah Yusuf said children with disabilities may enrol in the Sekolah Rakyat programme following an individual assessment of their condition and readiness to adapt. Those not yet prepared for regular classes will first receive rehabilitation support, while the programme combines education, rehabilitation and vocational training.

Population Ministry Enlists Family Support Teams to Ensure Genting Programme Reaches Those in Need

The Ministry of Population and Family Development is using Family Support Teams to monitor the Genting anti-stunting programme and ensure assistance reaches its intended recipients. The programme is funded entirely by foster parents and other stakeholders, not the state budget, and has provided assistance to 1.3 million children to date.

Godzilla Minus Zero: A Giant Monster Terror That Still Captivates

A special screening of Godzilla Minus Zero in Jakarta brought together Indonesian fans to celebrate the long-running Japanese franchise, whose 38 films have spanned generations and international audiences. Fans say the series retains its signature monster battles while adapting its visual techniques, and that IMAX presentation intensifies the film’s scale and impact.

October Manufacturing PMI Reflects Robust Industrial Growth, Sarmuji Says

Indonesia’s manufacturing PMI reached 54 in October, its strongest reading since March 2024 and above the expansion threshold, while new orders and export orders also posted notable gains. Sarmuji said the figures signal strong business confidence and highlighted food and beverage sector growth of 6.77 per cent and first-half investment of Rp47.74 trillion as important contributors to industrial expansion.

Binance Cybersecurity Incident Prompts OJK to Address Crypto-Asset Security

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) says a cybersecurity incident at Binance underscores the need for stronger technology governance, access controls and cyber resilience across the digital-asset industry. The regulator highlighted rules requiring most customer assets to be held with custodians and in cold storage, and said licensed traders are responsible for losses of customer assets held by them.

Trump’s Risk of Political Defeat Could Escalate the US-Iran War

The Republican Party’s projected losses in the 2026 mid-term elections, alongside rising war costs and public dissatisfaction, could increase pressure on Donald Trump to demonstrate resolve rather than seek an immediate end to the conflict. The article argues that this creates a credibility trap: escalation may appear politically useful in the short term, but risks widening the war, deepening economic costs and narrowing the scope for diplomacy.

Kepri Manpower Office Flags Companies Paying Workers Below the Regional Minimum Wage

The Riau Islands Manpower and Transmigration Office says some companies classify themselves as micro-enterprises to pay workers below the regency or municipal minimum wage (UMK). Officials are urging firms to update their business classifications, after workers and their union highlighted cases including skilled welders earning around Rp3 million a month.

China’s Tech Giants Snap Up US Products Worth Rp633 Trillion

ByteDance, Alibaba and Tencent have reportedly ordered more than three million Nvidia RTX PRO 5500 graphics cards, in a deal valued at US$35 billion, as US export restrictions limit China’s access to advanced AI chips. Nvidia may be able to supply only a fraction of the requested units, while Chinese firms plan to use the cards mainly for AI inference.

Get Ready: Workers to Receive Rp900,000 Wage Subsidy in November

Indonesia’s Manpower Ministry says eligible workers will receive a one-off Rp900,000 Wage Subsidy Assistance payment for a three-month period, scheduled for distribution in November–December 2026. Eligibility includes active BPJS Employment membership, a monthly wage within the applicable threshold and Indonesian citizenship; employers are urged to submit accurate worker data.

BSI Explore 2026 Announces Winners, with Situdam, Barugbug and Salawu Named Overall Champions

Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) has recognised students and field supervisors who took part in its BSI Explore 2026 community-service programme. Situdam, Barugbug and Salawu were named overall winners, while awards across five competition categories highlighted students’ creative work and documentation of their activities in villages.

Jokowi and Roy Suryo Shake Hands at the End of Defamation Trial

Former president Joko Widodo appeared as a witness in the trial of Roy Suryo, who is accused of defaming him over claims about his university diploma. The two shook hands after the hearing, while prosecutors allege Suryo spread false information and cite offences under Indonesia’s Criminal Code and Electronic Information and Transactions Law.

Automatic Grade Promotion to End, Education Minister Says Character Will Also Be Assessed

Education Minister Abdul Mu’ti says decisions on whether pupils advance to the next grade will consider both academic performance and character, including behaviour and good conduct. The detailed process will be set out in a ministerial regulation, with promotion decisions made collectively by teachers.

Bandung Regency Government Plans Six Retention Ponds to Tackle Flooding

Bandung Regency is preparing six retention ponds and new excavators as part of an integrated flood-management plan, prioritising Bojongsoang and Rancaekek. The initiative follows December 2025 floods that affected 34,497 people and requires coordination and shared funding among authorities across the Bandung metropolitan area.

BTN Expands Waste Station to Banyumas, Turning Household Waste into a Source of Income

Bank BTN has opened a waste-sorting and collection station in Purwokerto, Banyumas, where residents can exchange recyclable waste for points redeemable as cash through BTN accounts. The initiative forms part of the bank’s broader community ecosystem strategy and aims to strengthen local recycling while generating economic benefits for households.

BPS: NTB economy grows by a cumulative 9.37%, surpassing regional development plan target

Statistics Indonesia (BPS) says West Nusa Tenggara’s economy grew by a cumulative 9.37% in the first three quarters of 2026, above the 7.6% growth target set in the province’s medium-term development plan through 2029. Mining and quarrying led growth by production, while exports of goods and services were the strongest contributor on the expenditure side.