Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 10 March 2026

Showing 151-200 of 2,049 articles

Undana and University of Miyazaki, Japan, Train Rabies Diagnostics in East Nusa Tenggara

Nusa Cendana University (Undana) in Kupang has partnered with Japan's University of Miyazaki to conduct a rabies diagnostic training programme aimed at strengthening capacity for animal disease detection in East Nusa Tenggara. The collaborative initiative, implemented by Undana's Faculty of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine with Miyazaki's Centre for Animal Disease Control, represents a strategic response to the significant rabies challenge in the region, with participants receiving both theoretical instruction and hands-on laboratory practice through March 2026.

Papua New Guinea Border Security Task Force Returns to Aceh

The Indonesian Military's (TNI) 450-strong Yonif Raider 112 Dharma Jaya regiment has returned to Aceh after completing a 15-month deployment on border security and sovereignty defence operations in Papua. The troops arrived at Krueng Geukuh Port in North Aceh under the command of the Iskandar Muda Regional Military Command following their mission to safeguard territorial integrity in the region.

PLN UID Sulselrabar ensures 69 EV charging stations ready to serve electric vehicle users

PT PLN's South Sulawesi, Southeast Sulawesi and West Sulawesi Distribution Unit (UID Sulselrabar) has confirmed the readiness of 69 public electric vehicle charging stations (SPKLU) across 53 strategic locations to serve EV users during Ramadan and the Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah festivities. The charging stations are staffed 24/7 and equipped with digital services through the PLN Mobile app, which includes features to locate nearest stations and plan optimal charging routes. PLN recorded a fivefold increase in transactions at these stations during Ramadan 2026 compared to the previous period, reflecting growing EV adoption in the region.

MSCI Demands Answered as OJK Reveals Latest Progress on Capital Market Reforms

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has accelerated capital market reforms to address concerns raised by global index provider MSCI regarding market structure and openness. The regulator has proposed three main measures: expanding investor classification granularity from nine to 28 types, disclosing shareholders holding above one percent stakes, and increasing free-floating stock to 15 percent, with implementation coordinated across multiple government agencies.

No price hike in subsidised fuel until Eid al-Fitr: Minister Lahadalia

Indonesia's government has committed to maintaining fuel subsidies without increase until Eid al-Fitr, with Ministers Lahadalia and Purbaya confirming the subsidy budget remains secure despite recent global crude oil price volatility. The government will adopt a cautious approach, monitoring international oil price trends for approximately one month before considering any policy adjustments, citing the need for long-term forecasting rather than reactive measures.

KPK Seizes Hundreds of Millions in Rupiah During Arrest of Rejang Lebong Regent

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested 13 people, including Rejang Lebong Regent Muhammad Fikri Thobari and Vice-Regent Hendri Praja, in a dawn raid operation. The agency seized hundreds of millions of rupiah in cash, electronic evidence, and documents, with investigations focusing on alleged procurement fraud and suspicious money flows within the Rejang Lebong regency government.

Prabowo Praises Quraish Shihab's Sermon: Differences Need Not Lead to Division

President Prabowo Subianto has publicly commended Islamic scholar M. Quraish Shihab's sermon during the Nuzul al-Quran commemoration, praising its message that differences need not lead to division. Prabowo emphasised that the sermon's teachings on justice and the responsibilities of leadership have reinforced his understanding that power is a divine trust requiring him to uphold truth and bring prosperity to all citizens.

Rising Coal and Aluminium Prices Signal Positive Outlook for Alamtri Group Performance

Alamtri Group companies experienced significant revenue and profit declines throughout 2025, with ADRO, ADMR, and AADI all reporting double-digit percentage drops in net income. However, rising coal and aluminium prices entering 2026 present a positive catalyst for recovery, particularly for thermal coal exporters ADRO and AADI, whilst ADMR's mineral downstream expansion projects could enhance profitability over the medium term.

In Ramadhan Welcome, APPBI Jakarta Invites Public to Donate Blood

The Indonesian Shopping Centre Association (APPBI) Jakarta chapter has launched a blood donation campaign ahead of Ramadhan involving 30 shopping malls across the province to ensure adequate blood supplies during the holy month. The initiative, held at @Bassura mall, combines corporate social responsibility with public health engagement, offering free health screenings and medical examinations in collaboration with the Indonesian Red Cross and Lions Club Indonesia. Through this programme, APPBI aims to position shopping centres as community spaces that contribute to public welfare whilst supporting economic growth.

Do Not Forget History, Masoud Pezeshkian: Iran Cannot Be Defeated

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian declared that those harbouring illusions of destroying Iran lack knowledge of Persian history, asserting that throughout historical trials, no power has succeeded in erasing Iran's name. His statement came in response to the European Union's criticism of Hezbollah's attacks on Israel and accusations of double standards, with Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson arguing that the EU ignored Israeli military operations in Gaza, Lebanon, and other regions.

Eid 2026 projected to boost UMKM revenue fourfold

Indonesia's Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (UMKM) projects that the Eid 2026 holiday season will increase daily UMKM revenues from approximately 1 million rupiah to 4 million rupiah, driven by an estimated 144 million holiday travellers generating 175–190 trillion rupiah in economic activity. The government mandates that public infrastructure operators allocate at least 30 per cent of space to UMKM to capitalise on peak consumer spending across transport hubs, tourism sites, and shopping centres.

Asian Airlines Hit by US-Israel Versus Iran Conflict as Ticket Prices Surge 70%

Asian airlines are implementing emergency measures including dramatic ticket price increases of up to 70% and fleet groundings in response to escalating Middle East tensions threatening to trigger severe oil price shocks. The region's carriers face acute vulnerability due to weak fuel hedging programmes compared to European and American competitors, with low-cost operators particularly at risk of insolvency if high fuel costs persist beyond three months. European carriers such as Lufthansa enjoy competitive advantages through robust hedging strategies whilst Asian airline stocks have hit multi-year lows as crude oil prices exceed US$100 per barrel.

Bahlil: National Fuel Stock Secure, No Need for Panic Buying

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has guaranteed that subsidised fuel prices will not increase until Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah and warned against panic buying, citing adequate national fuel stock reserves of 21-25 days. The government is responding to global crude oil price increases triggered by regional instability in the Middle East, whilst Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa confirmed sufficient budgetary capacity to absorb price differentials based on the state budget's US$70 per barrel assumption.

Female Body Found in Plastic Container in Medan

The corpse of a naked woman was discovered in a plastic container at the riverside in Medan, North Sumatra on 10 March, after residents grew suspicious of two men transporting the box on a motorcycle taxi. Police launched an investigation to identify the victim and pursue the two suspects, whilst the body was transported to Bhayangkara Hospital for autopsy to determine the cause of death. The discovery sparked significant local concern and police had to manage crowds of onlookers whilst securing the crime scene.

Ministry of UMKM: Iran-US conflict drives up selling prices for SMEs

Indonesia's Ministry of UMKM has warned that geopolitical tensions between Iran and the United States, which have pushed crude oil prices to $117 per barrel—well above the 2026 budget assumption of $70—could drive up prices for small and medium enterprises' products domestically. The transport and distribution sectors are expected to be hit hardest as rising fuel costs will increase logistics expenses, ultimately pushing up prices for essential goods and affecting consumers. The government has pledged to maintain subsidised fuel prices in the near term whilst evaluating potential budget adjustments over the coming month.

Unsorted Waste Damages Rp 20 Billion Masaro Machine After Two Months of Operation

Two Rp 20 billion waste management machines (Masaro) in West Lombok, Nusa Tenggara Barat, suffered damage to their blower systems just two months after operation, forcing a three-day shutdown that caused waste to pile up across four districts. The head of the environmental office attributed the breakdown to unsorted household waste entering the machines, with glass and construction debris causing mechanical failure, though the equipment has since been repaired but operates below optimal capacity. The facility's ideal processing capacity of 20 tonnes per day is significantly reduced because staff must manually sort waste beforehand, a task that exceeds current labour capacity.

SheHacks Indosat Drives Indonesian Women's Startups into Southeast Asian Markets

Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison's SheHacks programme has expanded into Southeast Asia, bringing five top AI-focused women-led startups to Vietnam for a strategic market-entry initiative. Through intensive business matching, mentoring, and investor pitching sessions, the programme facilitated connections with six investors, nine potential business partners, and six government institutions, positioning Indonesian startups for regional expansion and international funding opportunities.

TNI Commander Explains Purpose of Alert Status 1 Deployment

TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto clarified that Alert Status 1 implemented across various military units is part of routine readiness testing, particularly for the Rapid Response Force for Natural Disaster Management (PRCPB). Each regional military command has designated one battalion on standby to respond to potential disasters and domestic emergencies, with the force undertaking exercises to measure response times from areas around Jakarta. The commander stated this is standard procedure for personnel and equipment preparedness, unrelated to international conflicts, and also supports police security operations during the Eid holiday period.

Bank Jakarta Expands Digital Payment Ecosystem at Ramadan Bazaar

Bank Jakarta is expanding cashless transaction adoption through digital payment systems at the Jakarta Prime Ramadan Bazaar (9–10 March 2026) held at Jakarta City Hall, aiming to strengthen financial literacy and inclusion among the public. The initiative provides UMKM merchants with improved financial record-keeping, broader market reach, and transaction transparency, whilst offering consumers a more convenient payment experience. The bazaar also serves as a platform to introduce various digital banking services to wider audiences and enhance public access to safe and trustworthy financial services.

China to Promote Smart and Green Transport During 2026-2030 Period

China's Transport Minister Liu Wei has announced plans to accelerate digital and green transformation in the transport sector over the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030), including deployment of artificial intelligence technology, smart infrastructure development, and expanded clean energy vehicle adoption. The country aims to establish zero-carbon transport corridors and stations whilst increasing charging facility capacity to support the transition to new-energy vehicles across its major road networks.

Rejang Lebong Regent Named Suspect Following KPK Sting Operation

The Regent of Rejang Lebong, Muhammad Fikri Thobari, has been declared a suspect by Indonesia's Anti-Corruption Commission (KPK) following a sting operation conducted on Tuesday, 10 March. Five individuals have been named as suspects in total, comprising three private sector actors as alleged bribe-givers and two state officials as alleged recipients, including the regent.

Pelindo Prepares 20 Passenger Terminals for Mudik Surge in Sulawesi Region

PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Pelindo) Regional 4 is preparing 20 passenger terminals across eastern Indonesian ports to handle increased passenger mobility during the 2026 Lebaran exodus period. The company is strengthening operational infrastructure and coordination with maritime operators at key ports including Makassar, Balikpapan, Ambon, Parepare, and Ternate, with a focus on maintaining safe and orderly passenger services.

Man found dead with gunshot wound to head in Pesanggrahan

A 54-year-old man identified as BAS was discovered dead from a gunshot wound to the head in a house in South Jakarta's Pesanggrahan district on Friday, 6 March, after neighbours heard a dog barking persistently that morning. Police recovered one illegal 9mm firearm and three airsoft guns from the scene and are conducting an autopsy to determine if other crimes occurred, whilst also investigating the origins and ownership of the recovered weapons.

Padel Court Manager in Condet Claims Compliance with Provincial Government Operating Hours Directive

The manager of The Padel Side padel court in East Jakarta claims the facility has adjusted its operating hours in accordance with Jakarta Provincial Government directives, limiting operations to 8 PM following complaints from residents about late-night noise disturbances. The manager acknowledged that sound-dampening measures are being reinforced, whilst residents have threatened to block access to the facility if operations extend beyond 10 PM, though neighbourhood complaints about disruptive noise continue despite these commitments.

Foreign Minister Announces 36 Indonesian Citizens from Second Wave to Be Repatriated from Iran

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry is continuing evacuation efforts for Indonesian nationals from Iran amid heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, with 36 citizens registered for repatriation in the second wave. The Foreign Minister stated that departure schedules are still being coordinated based on security conditions in Tehran, border situations, and available evacuation routes, with the repatriation expected within the week. The first wave of 22 Indonesian citizens has already safely arrived in Jakarta, with an additional 10 expected to arrive the following day.

Regional leaders call for diplomatic efforts to end Middle East war

Middle Eastern leaders have issued urgent calls for diplomatic intervention and restraint amid escalating tensions following combined US and Israeli attacks on Iran and subsequent Iranian retaliatory strikes. The appeals, made during an emergency European Union video conference, emphasise dialogue and peaceful resolution as essential to prevent further regional destabilisation and protect international maritime commerce.

Prabowo: The World Is Dangerous, Indonesia Must Unite

President Prabowo Subianto has called for national unity and solidarity amid global uncertainty and geopolitical tensions, emphasising Indonesia's responsibility to protect all citizens regardless of background. He stressed the importance of eradicating corruption, maintaining international friendships, and ensuring justice and prosperity, whilst warning of potential economic impacts from Middle Eastern conflicts.

Indonesian Foreign Ministry pursues evacuation of Indonesian citizens still detained in Iran

The Indonesian Foreign Ministry is continuing efforts to evacuate Indonesian citizens (WNI) stranded in Iran amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East between the United States, Israel, and Iran. The ministry has successfully repatriated 22 citizens in the first wave and plans to evacuate 36 more in subsequent waves, with another ten departing tomorrow, whilst coordinating with Indonesian diplomatic missions and state authorities to manage the operation.

Gold Price Prediction Wednesday 11 March 2026: Record Rp3 Million Amid Trump Peace Signals

Gold bullion certified by PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) reached a historic high of Rp3.047 million per gram on Tuesday 10 March 2026, but faces headwinds on Wednesday following President Trump's signals of a Middle East peace resolution. The anticipated US CPI data release and profit-taking after record highs suggest gold may experience a minor technical correction in the range of Rp5,000 to Rp12,000 per gram, though analysts recommend long-term holdings given the Rp245,000 spread between buying and selling prices.

Minister of Religious Affairs Urges Making the Quran an Inspiration for National and State Life

Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar has emphasised that the commemoration of Nuzulul Quran (the revelation of the Quran) represents an important opportunity to strengthen the Quran as a source of inspiration for national and state life. Speaking at a state-level ceremony attended by approximately 278 people including cabinet ministers, religious leaders, and state officials, the Minister stressed the importance of Quranic values such as justice, brotherhood, and moral responsibility in national governance. He also highlighted the crucial role of Islamic scholars in promoting unifying religious messaging and in praying for wise national leadership.

Shopee Reports Profit of Rp9.76 Trillion Thanks to Logistics Transformation and Instant Delivery

Sea's e-commerce platform Shopee achieved its first annual operating profit of US$581 million (Rp9.76 trillion) in 2025, driven by significant investment in logistics infrastructure and instant delivery services. Despite strong revenue growth of 38% in Q4 2025 and gross merchandise value increasing 27% year-on-year to US$127.4 billion, the stock fell 16.5% as earnings per share of US$0.63 missed analyst expectations of US$0.75, reflecting elevated logistics and operational costs pressuring profitability.

Jakarta Governor Opens Possibility of Anti-Bullying Regulation Following Public Request

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung indicated openness to drafting a gubernatorial regulation addressing bullying following requests from citizens during a visit to a regional hospital. The governor directed his provincial administration to study the feasibility of creating special regulations to tackle bullying, emphasising the importance of community support for patients' recovery and destigmatisation.

BRI Prepares Rp25 Trillion in Cash for Ramadan 2026 Holiday Needs

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has prepared Rp25 trillion in cash to meet public demand during the 2026 Eid al-Fitr holiday period, down from Rp27 trillion in 2025, based on optimised analysis of previous usage patterns. The bank will support transactions through 9,657 ATMs and cash recycling machines, over 280,000 EDC machines at merchant networks, and approximately 1.2 million BRILink agents nationwide, with limited branch operations on 18, 20, 23, and 24 March 2026.

PMI Intensifies Blood Donation Campaign to Maintain Stock During Ramadhan

The Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) West Jakarta has launched an intensive blood donation campaign from 9-13 March 2026 to maintain adequate blood stock supplies during Ramadhan, when donations typically decline. The campaign targets 5,000 units across multiple locations and aims to help meet the daily need of 200 units in West Jakarta and 1,000 units across Jakarta.

Adam Malik Hospital designated as Primary Education Hospital to meet specialist doctor requirements

Adam Malik Hospital in Medan has been designated by the Ministry of Health as a Primary Education Hospital (RSPPU) to help address Indonesia's shortage of specialist doctors. The hospital will begin offering specialist training programmes in thoracic surgery and cardiovascular medicine in mid-2026, with plans to expand the RSPPU scheme across 52 teaching hospitals offering 55 specialist programmes nationwide.

Yaqut's Legal Team Optimistic Judge Will Annul Suspect Status

The legal team of former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has expressed confidence that the South Jakarta District Court will grant their pretrial motion to overturn his suspect status in a hajj quota corruption case, with a ruling scheduled for Wednesday 11 March. The defence has identified several critical weaknesses in the Corruption Eradication Commission's (KPK) designation, including the use of outdated criminal law provisions, procedural defects in the suspect designation document, questions about the KPK leadership's legal authority to act as investigators, and irregularities in the timeline for calculating state losses.

Energy Minister Urges Public Against Panic Buying Despite Rising Global Oil Prices

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has urged the public not to engage in panic buying of fuel following rising global crude oil prices sparked by conflict in the Middle East. The minister assured that domestic fuel stocks are sufficient and stable, with subsidised fuel prices guaranteed not to increase until Eid al-Fitr, whilst Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa confirmed the government's budget for fuel subsidies remains secure.

Two Pertamina Vessels Detained in Arabian Gulf; Management Awaits Safe Passage Through Strait of Hormuz

PT Pertamina International Shipping has confirmed that two of its tanker vessels, VLCC Pertamina Pride and Gamsunoro, remain detained in the Arabian Gulf awaiting safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz amid regional tensions. Despite the temporary detention, Pertamina management asserts that the domestic energy supply chain remains secure, supported by a fleet of 345 vessels and coordination with the government on alternative logistics routes. The company is conducting continuous 24-hour real-time monitoring of all vessels and crew whilst liaising closely with maritime authorities to ensure the safety of personnel and cargo.

Nadiem Called "Mas Menteri" by Jokowi; Judge Quips: "There's Also Mas Wapres Then?"

Former Education, Culture, Research and Technology Minister Nadiem Makarim testified in court that President Joko Widodo gave him the nickname "Mas Menteri" (Minister Sir) during his tenure, which became widely known. The hearing judge lightened the mood during corruption proceedings by quipping about Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka's similar nickname "Mas Wapres" (Vice President Sir), drawing laughter from the courtroom.

Minister for Villages Invites Sigi Regency to Optimise Tourism and Export Potential

Indonesia's Minister for Villages and Disadvantaged Regions Yandri Susanto has pledged to assist Sigi Regency in developing tourism and export-focused villages to maximise local economic potential. The regency, which possesses 10,000 hectares suitable for cocoa cultivation alongside productive fishing, agriculture, and livestock sectors, has commodities including coffee, cocoa, and durian with strong export prospects. The minister endorsed Sigi's comprehensive village development strategy during an official audience, committing ministerial support to realise these opportunities.

Gianyar Regent Reports Decline in Poverty and Unemployment Rates

Gianyar Regent I Made Agus Mahayastra announced that the regency's poverty rate has decreased to 3.71 per cent in 2025 from 4 per cent in 2024, whilst unemployment has fallen to 1.55 per cent from 1.98 per cent over the same period. The improvements have contributed to economic growth of 5.89 per cent and a reduction in income inequality, with the regency implementing job fairs and worker training programmes to further combat joblessness.

South Sumatra Regional Parliament's Billiard Table Budget Draws Scrutiny

The South Sumatra Regional Parliament (DPRD) has allocated 486.9 million rupiah to purchase two billiard tables for the official residences of its chairman and vice-chairman, sparking significant public and political criticism. Despite the DPRD chairman's claim that the tables would serve as training facilities for regional billiard athletes, lawmakers and government officials have questioned the expenditure during a period of budget cuts and fiscal constraints, with calls for reallocation to more pressing public needs.

Indonesia Ranks Second Globally for Measles Cases; Indonesian Paediatric Association Declares Immunisation Emergency

Indonesia has become the world's second-largest source of measles cases with 10,744 confirmed infections as of February 2026, trailing only Yemen, according to WHO data reported by the CDC. The Indonesian Paediatric Association (IDAI) has declared an immunisation emergency, attributing the outbreak to insufficient coverage of the second dose of the measles-rubella vaccine (MR2), which reached only 82.3% in 2024 against a required 95% target for herd immunity. The organisation is calling for urgent government action and public awareness campaigns to prevent further deaths, as measles remains preventable through vaccination but has already caused four deaths in the first seven weeks of 2026.

New Trend in Online Shopping: YouTube Creator Reviews Become Shopping Reference

Consumer behaviour is increasingly shaped by product reviews from YouTube creators, with the Populix Ramadan Consumer Behavior Report 2025 showing that digital creator endorsements are becoming crucial in purchasing decisions. In response to this trend, Blibli has integrated with YouTube Shopping to allow viewers to directly access and purchase products recommended by creators without leaving the video experience, featuring real-time stock updates and up to 60 products per creator video.

Type 2 Diabetes Cases in Indonesia Continue to Rise, Requiring Prevention Efforts and Better Treatment Access

Indonesia faces a mounting public health challenge with type 2 diabetes affecting approximately 19.5 million adults, according to the International Diabetes Federation Diabetes Atlas 2025. The article highlights the need for comprehensive prevention strategies, lifestyle modifications, and improved access to innovative therapies, including the newly approved tirzepatide treatment, with the pharmaceutical sector and regulatory authorities playing crucial roles in bridging treatment gaps across the nation.

India implements gas distribution measures amid Middle East crisis

India's Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has issued directives to ensure fair distribution of natural gas to priority sectors following energy supply disruptions caused by Middle Eastern conflict, with four priority sectors designated to receive 100 per cent of their average consumption levels. The orders were prompted by reports of shortages of commercial liquefied petroleum gas cylinders from hotel and restaurant industry associations, and come as Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz since 1 March, disrupting 20 per cent of global liquefied natural gas trade.

Four Nations Cut Oil Production Amid Global Energy Crisis Concerns

Four Gulf states—Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Iraq—have reduced oil production by at least 6 million barrels per day due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route for energy exports. The cuts represent reductions ranging from one-fifth to 70 per cent of these nations' January production levels, raising concerns about potential global energy shortages.

SBM ITB Develops Village Entrepreneurship Empowerment Model Based on Circular Economy

The School of Business and Management at Bandung Institute of Technology (SBM ITB) has launched a village economic empowerment programme in Adabai Village, Maluku, focused on producing coconut shell charcoal using appropriate technology and circular economy principles. The multi-month initiative combines entrepreneurship training, business management workshops, and hands-on production practices to help villagers transform coconut waste into economically viable products whilst building sustainable local enterprises.

Rejang Lebong Bupati Graft Case: Anti-Corruption Commission Names Five Suspects

Indonesia's Anti-Corruption Commission (KPK) has established five suspects in a graft operation involving Rejang Lebong Bupati Muhammad Fikri Thobari, with the identities to be disclosed at a press conference on 11 March. The KPK conducted a sweep operation in Bengkulu on 9 March, initially detaining 13 individuals, of whom nine were brought to Jakarta for further questioning, including the Bupati and Deputy Bupati Hendri Praja.

Klaten Regency Deploys 64 Ambulance Fleet to Welcome Lebaran Holiday Rush

Klaten Regency Government has mobilised 64 ambulances and deployed 180 health personnel across seven health posts to ensure safety during the 2026 Lebaran holiday migration period. The district also conducted health inspections of intercity bus drivers and food safety checks at markets, discovering some samples containing hazardous substances such as formaldehyde and harmful dyes.