Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 July 2026

Showing 451-500 of 1,599 articles

DKI Jakarta Provincial Government Urged to Ensure Accuracy of Tax Data in the Field

The DKI Jakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) has called on the provincial government to ensure tax data accurately reflects field conditions, following audit findings of unreconciled receivables. The Democrat-Perindo faction highlighted discrepancies in advertisement tax records, where settled payments had not been updated in the regional revenue agency's system. The issue underscores the need for stronger tax database management to support sound fiscal policy.

LAN Head: PKN Batch XXV 2026 Strengthens Adaptive Leadership for Disasters

The National Institute of Public Administration (LAN) is enhancing its National Leadership Training (PKN) to build adaptive leadership among senior officials, using Aceh's post-disaster recovery as a strategic learning model. The programme, running from July to November 2026, will train 63 high-ranking officials from various ministries and local governments. The curriculum focuses on cross-sector coordination, risk-based governance transformation, and public service innovation to bolster national resilience against natural disasters and climate change.

West Java Provincial Employees Involved in Online Gambling Face Potential Dismissal Sanctions

The West Java Provincial Government has verified 2,663 civil servants and contract employees involved in online gambling, with total transactions reaching Rp14 billion. The provincial personnel agency warns that severe sanctions, including dismissal, await those found guilty. The findings have raised concerns over systemic impacts on employee performance and personal lives.

Emergency Response to Jatiwaringin Landfill Fire Officially Ends

The emergency response status for the fire at the Jatiwaringin landfill in Tangerang Regency, Banten, has officially ended after a two-week period. Although the status has been lifted, a dedicated task force will remain on standby to mitigate the risk of new hotspots during the prolonged dry season. The local government is transitioning to a mitigation phase, which includes deploying thermal drones and constructing dedicated water reserves and fire access routes.

Police Arrest Brutal Thief Who Murdered Online Motorcycle Taxi Driver While He Slept in Tangerang

Police have arrested Rahmat Dimas, a man suspected of murdering an online motorcycle taxi driver while he slept at a base camp in Tangerang. The suspect allegedly stabbed the victim in the neck before stealing his motorcycle and mobile phone. The arrest was made at a rented house in North Jakarta following a pursuit by the victim's colleague.

Three Men Assault Railway Crossing Guard After Being Reprimanded for Breaking Through Barrier

A railway crossing guard in Garut, West Java, was assaulted by three men after he reprimanded a motorcyclist for dangerously breaking through a closed barrier. The incident, which occurred at JPL 227 Leuwigoeng, left the guard with facial bruising and scratches on his hands. Local police are currently pursuing the three suspects involved in the attack.

When Ibn Abbas Was Asked to Compare His Knowledge with Ali ibn Abi Talib

Abdullah ibn Abbas, a revered companion of the Prophet Muhammad known for his vast knowledge, demonstrated profound humility when asked to compare his learning to that of Ali ibn Abi Talib. He likened his own knowledge to a mere drop of rain falling into a vast ocean, acknowledging Ali's superior wisdom. This response serves as a timeless example of modesty for scholars.

Three TTU Legislators and Veterinarian Questioned by NTT Police Over Doctor Icha Case

Three members of the Timor Tengah Utara (TTU) Regional House of Representatives and a government veterinarian have been questioned by East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Police. They are being investigated over the alleged intimidation of doctor Eliza Princila Utami Pakaenoni, known as Dr Icha, which reportedly led to her death. The joint investigation team has so far examined 35 witnesses in connection with the case.

South Sumatra Police Chief Visits High Prosecutor's Office, Dismisses Friction Rumours and Affirms Brotherhood

The South Sumatra Police Chief, Inspector General Sandi Nugroho, paid a cordial visit to the High Prosecutor's Office in Palembang, aiming to dispel circulating rumours of inter-agency friction. Both leaders emphasised the harmonious and familial relationship between the two law enforcement institutions. The visit underscored their joint commitment to maintaining a healthy and secure climate for development in the region.

Gayo Coffee Seedling Inspection in Bener Meriah: Agriculture Minister Targets Coffee Exports of Rp 100 Trillion

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman conducted a surprise inspection of a Gayo coffee nursery in Bener Meriah, Aceh, expressing satisfaction with the quality of seedlings. The government has allocated aid for 17,000 hectares of coffee development, projected to boost farmers' income by Rp 4 trillion. Amran aims to increase national coffee export value from the current Rp 40 trillion to Rp 100 trillion by strengthening upstream production and bargaining power.

Pramono Orders Transportation Agency to Ease Gridlock After Truck Strikes Tendean Footbridge

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has instructed the Transportation Agency (Dishub) to urgently manage severe traffic congestion on Jalan Kapten Tendean. The gridlock was caused by a heavy equipment truck that became stuck under a pedestrian bridge (JPO) during the early hours, causing significant structural damage. Authorities are investigating the driver's negligence regarding the vehicle's height clearance.

MPR Study Body Discusses Strengthening People's Sovereignty with Academics

The People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Study Body held a focus group discussion with academics to address the gap between Indonesia's democratic procedures and substantive people's sovereignty. Experts highlighted issues such as elite dominance in candidate selection, money politics, and weak post-election accountability as key challenges. The forum is part of a broader effort to gather input for a future Constitutional Conference aimed at evaluating and strengthening Indonesia's state administration.

Dollar Accounts Surge 58%, Perbanas Reveals the Cause

The number of US dollar-denominated bank accounts in Indonesia soared by 58% year-on-year in May 2026, significantly outpacing the growth of rupiah accounts. The Indonesian Banks Association (Perbanas) attributes this sharp increase to the new regulation mandating the placement of natural resource export proceeds within domestic banks.

Two Decades of Sekolah Sukma Bangsa: Nurturing Hope and Character Education in Aceh

Sekolah Sukma Bangsa, founded in the wake of the 2004 Aceh tsunami, has marked its 20th anniversary as a model for character-based education, peace, and diversity. The school, established with public donations through the Media Group's 'Indonesia Menangis' programme, operates integrated primary to high school campuses in Pidie, Bireuen, and Lhokseumawe. The anniversary served as a moment to honour its founders and reaffirm its commitment to shaping future generations with strong moral and national values.

West Java Government Employee Online Gambling Transactions Hit IDR 14 Billion

The West Java Provincial Government has uncovered that thousands of its employees were involved in online gambling, with total transactions reaching approximately IDR 14 billion. Data from the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (PPATK) identified 2,663 verified employees, including civil servants and contract staff. The administration is conducting intensive examinations to determine disciplinary sanctions, which could range from minor penalties to dismissal.

No Tax Hikes as Indonesia Faces Revenue Shortfall: Purbaya

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has ruled out tax rate increases despite a projected Rp 46.9 trillion shortfall in 2026 tax revenue. The government will instead focus on broadening the tax base through enhanced data systems and technology to capture revenue from the digital and informal sectors. This strategy aims to narrow Indonesia's significant tax compliance gap, estimated at 3.7 percent of GDP, while maintaining a supportive climate for investment and exports.

Surabaya City Government Distributes Education Aid to 7,380 Students

The Surabaya City Government has distributed educational assistance to 7,380 high school and vocational students for the 2026/2027 academic year. The programme targets students from underprivileged families, orphans, and those in the bottom five welfare deciles, providing school supplies and a monthly cash grant of Rp350,000 for private school attendees. Mayor Eri Cahyadi emphasised that the aid is based on real community data without a fixed quota to ensure it is precisely targeted and helps alleviate the economic burden on families.

S&P Projects Stable Indonesian Credit, Market Awaits Economic Improvement

Standard & Poor's has maintained Indonesia's credit rating at BBB with a stable outlook, citing strong domestic demand and prudent fiscal policy. The Financial Services Authority (OJK) welcomed the decision and committed to strengthening the financial sector. However, asset manager Manulife has downgraded its recommendation on Indonesian assets to underweight, citing market uncertainty and concerns raised by rating agencies.

Danamon reports 52 percent rise in foreign currency savings driven by customer transactions

PT Bank Danamon Indonesia Tbk recorded a 52 percent year-on-year surge in foreign currency savings, reaching approximately Rp8.5 trillion to Rp9 trillion. The growth was fuelled by innovative service features, competitive exchange rates, and increased transaction activity among emerging affluent and priority customers. The bank also saw fee-based income from its foreign exchange business climb by around 35 percent.

142 SPPG Units to Strengthen Free Nutritious Meal Programme in Bengkulu

The Bandar Lampung Nutrition Service Office has announced that 142 Nutrition Service Units (SPPG) will support the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meal Programme in Bengkulu Province. The initiative aims to broaden service coverage and optimise community nutrition fulfilment. The office is strengthening coordination with the Bengkulu provincial government to ensure the national programme effectively reaches all target groups.

Trade Ministry optimises Minyakita distribution to secure market stocks

The Ministry of Trade is strengthening the distribution of Minyakita cooking oil to ensure stable supplies in traditional markets. Distribution through state-owned food enterprises has reached 51 percent, exceeding the mandatory 35 percent minimum. The ministry is also monitoring prices and coordinating across sectors to mitigate potential inflation, especially in disaster-affected areas facing logistical constraints.

Iran's Message to Jordan: We Are Not Hostile to Your Country

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has stated that its ballistic missile strike targeted a US airbase in Jordan, not the Jordanian people. The IRGC expressed affection for Jordanians and urged them to demand the dissolution of American military bases in the region. The attack occurred amid escalating hostilities between the US and Iran, including strikes on tankers in the Strait of Hormuz.

Minister Ara Secures List of Abandoned State Land for Flat Construction

Minister of Housing and Settlement Areas Maruarar Sirait has obtained a list of idle, state-owned land from the Agrarian Ministry, cleared for the construction of vertical housing. The government plans to develop flats on these sites using various funding schemes, including the national budget, the Danantara sovereign wealth fund, private developers, and corporate social responsibility programmes. Immediate projects include 1,000 units on PT KAI land in Tanah Abang, Jakarta, built with Astra's CSR support, and a similar development in Kiara Condong, Bandung.

Rector: Diversity is Indonesia's strong asset for world peace diplomacy

An Indonesian university rector has stated that the nation's extensive experience in managing a pluralistic society serves as a powerful foundation for global peace diplomacy. This concept, explored in a newly launched collaborative book on religious diplomacy, positions Indonesia's model of peaceful coexistence as a valuable offering to the world. The book develops the ideas of the Minister of Religious Affairs on the role of religion in strengthening interfaith dialogue and international cooperation.

Sri Lanka records nearly 120,000 drop in births in 2025

Sri Lanka has seen live births fall by almost 120,000 in 2025 compared to a decade earlier, with the government pledging support and incentives to reverse the trend. The decline, which accelerated after 2019, is attributed to delayed marriages, rising living costs, and increased female workforce participation. Officials warn the country needs up to 360,000 births annually to maintain long-term population stability.

Economist projects improved economic growth in Q3 2026

Bank Danamon's chief economist forecasts Indonesia's economic growth will improve in the third quarter of 2026, driven by accelerated government spending in the second half of the year. Growth in the second quarter is expected to have slowed following a seasonal boost from the Lebaran holiday period. The government has prepared a Rp26.34 trillion stimulus package to support consumption and growth amid global uncertainty.

Legislator Urges Forestry Ministry to Tighten Corporate Oversight to Prevent Forest Fires

Members of Indonesia's House of Representatives have called on the Ministry of Forestry to strengthen forest fire prevention measures following a 205 per cent surge in hotspots in the first half of 2026. Lawmakers demanded stricter law enforcement against companies with land in fire-prone areas, criticising the current reliance on administrative sanctions. They also highlighted the need to optimise firefighting resources, particularly the Manggala Agni brigade in Aceh.

Automotive Giant Volkswagen 'in Tears', Plans to Shut 4 Plants and Cut 100,000 Jobs

Volkswagen CEO Oliver Blume has signalled that the German automotive giant may cut up to 100,000 jobs globally as it battles high operational costs and fierce competition. An internal memo confirmed the company is evaluating the future of four German plants—Emden, Hanover, Zwickau, and Neckarsulm—which currently lack a competitive business case for the 2030s. The proposed restructuring, which faces worker opposition, aims to address costs that are reportedly 20 per cent higher than industry peers.

Part of JPO Demolished After Truck Collision, Jl Tendean Towards Pancoran Reopens

A section of a pedestrian bridge (JPO) on Jalan Kapten Tendean in South Jakarta has been fully demolished after a truck carrying heavy equipment struck it, nearly causing a collapse. The Jakarta Provincial Government completed the partial demolition, allowing one lane of traffic towards Pancoran to reopen. Demolition work continues on the side of the road heading towards Blok M.

BPK Finds IMO and WIPO 2025 Financial Reports Fairly Presented

The Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) has issued an unqualified opinion on the 2025 financial statements of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). The audits, presented at the IMO Council and WIPO Assemblies, also included strategic recommendations for strengthening accounting policies, procurement practices, and human resource management. The findings underscore Indonesia's active role in promoting transparency and credible financial governance within key international organisations.

China's Top Political Adviser Wang Huning to Visit North Korea for Three Days

Wang Huning, China's top political adviser, is scheduled for a three-day visit to North Korea starting Wednesday. The trip follows a recent visit to Beijing by North Korean Premier Pak Thae Song, where both sides agreed to strengthen strategic coordination. The diplomatic exchanges coincide with the 65th anniversary of the Sino-North Korean Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance.

Examining Force Majeure Elements in the Deaths of Three Workers in a Culvert

An investigation is underway into a workplace accident in East Jakarta that claimed the lives of three subcontractor workers, suspected to have been overcome by toxic gas in a confined space. PAM JAYA has demanded a thorough investigation and accountability from its partner, PT Moya Indonesia, while a presidential advisor is monitoring potential occupational safety violations. Legal experts are examining whether the incident qualifies as force majeure or resulted from negligence and breaches of safety procedures.

Jakarta 'Besieged' by Traffic During Rush Hour Following Tendean Footbridge Dismantling

The dismantling of a pedestrian bridge on Jalan Kapten Tendean in South Jakarta, which was struck by a truck, caused severe traffic congestion during the Tuesday evening rush hour. Major thoroughfares including Jalan Sudirman, Jalan Rasuna Said, and the SCBD area were heavily affected as authorities worked to clear the damaged structure. Police reported that the evacuation process, ongoing since the early morning accident, has blocked key routes and is expected to continue disrupting traffic.

Police Hand Over Investigation Dossiers for Three Corruption Cases to the AGO

The Indonesian National Police have formally transferred the investigation dossiers for three major corruption and money laundering cases to the Attorney General's Office (AGO). The cases involve alleged corruption in coal governance, financial irregularities at PT Asabri and PT Jiwasraya, and money laundering related to PT CBS's debt settlement. This handover follows an agreement between the two institutions to synergise law enforcement efforts.

Situbondo Police Ensure SPPG Meets Standards for Free Nutritious Meal Programme

The Situbondo Resort Police have confirmed that five Police Nutrition Service Units (SPPG) in the region meet all required standards for the government's Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. Monitoring revealed all units possess the necessary hygiene sanitation certificates and wastewater treatment facilities. The police chief emphasised ongoing supervision to guarantee food safety and quality for the nation's future generations.

IOA Global and Central Java Government Explore Investment and Vocational Cooperation

Singapore-based non-profit IOA Global is exploring long-term cooperation with the Central Java provincial government, focusing on high-tech manufacturing investment and vocational education. The initiative includes plans to bring investors from China and Europe to assess the region's potential, with a specific Chinese shoe manufacturer already showing serious interest. The collaboration also aims to boost workforce competency through student and expert exchanges with institutions in Fujian and Xiamen.

Minister Agus Andrianto Explains Why Febrie Adriansyah Was Only Banned from Travel for 20 Days

Minister of Immigration and Community Affairs Agus Andrianto has clarified that the 20-day travel ban imposed on former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah was a temporary measure requested by the Jakarta Metropolitan Police. The case, involving alleged corruption and money laundering, has since been transferred to the Attorney General's Office, which is expected to request an extension of the ban. The transfer is described as a form of synergy between the police and the prosecution service.

Local flagship commodities strengthen food security: Minister

A senior minister has emphasised that achieving President Prabowo's food self-sufficiency directive requires developing high-value commodities like bananas alongside staple rice production. Inspecting a demonstration plot in West Java, the minister stressed that food security must be paired with farmer prosperity through added value, business ecosystems, and guaranteed market access. The government views strengthening cooperatives and post-harvest infrastructure as essential to transforming Indonesia's substantial banana output into sustainable economic benefits for growers.

Only 1.23 Percent of Indonesian Companies Provide Daycare Facilities for Workers

A mere 1.23 percent of registered companies in Indonesia currently offer childcare facilities, according to Ministry of Manpower data. The government is promoting flexible Family Friendly Workplace schemes, including shared daycare centres and childcare vouchers, rather than mandating on-site facilities. Officials argue that such support is a strategic investment to boost productivity, expand female workforce participation, and advance long-term human capital development.

KSP Ready to Cut Red Tape to Accelerate President's Priority Programmes

The Presidential Staff Office (KSP) has pledged to slash convoluted bureaucracy to speed up President Prabowo Subianto's priority programmes. KSP Head Dudung Abdurachman stated the President demands rapid execution and dislikes time-wasting regulations. The initiatives, including free meals and school revitalisation, aim to improve public welfare and ensure equitable development across Indonesia's regions.

Freeport's Contribution to State Coffers Forecast to Surge Past Rp120 Trillion by 2030

PT Freeport Indonesia projects its annual contribution to the state will exceed US$7 billion (approximately Rp120 trillion) by 2030, driven by a return to full production capacity. The forecast includes a significant ramp-up in output from its underground mine and the commencement of operations at the new Kucing Liar block by 2029. The company expects state revenues to rise sharply from an estimated US$2.6 billion in 2026 to US$4.7 billion in 2027, comprising non-tax state revenue, corporate taxes, and dividends.

BPDP Supports Strengthening of Indonesia-Russia Palm Oil Partnership

The Indonesian Oil Palm Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP) has endorsed a new partnership between Indonesian and Russian industry groups aimed at expanding market access. The collaboration was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding between the Indonesian Palm Oil Association (GAPKI) and Russian fat and oil unions. The agreement is expected to enhance trade promotion and information exchange for Indonesian palm oil products in Russia and the Eurasian Economic Union.

Viral Confession of Alleged Sexual Assault at Martapura Hospital Prompts Police Investigation

A video confession by a female patient alleging sexual assault during treatment at RSUD Martapura in South Sumatra has gone viral, prompting a police investigation. The victim, who was physically weak and on respiratory support, claimed a man identified as SL groped her and forced her to touch his genitals. The East OKU Police have confirmed receiving a report from the victim's family and are currently conducting a thorough inquiry.

Karangasem People's School Offers Hope to Students from Underprivileged Families

The People's School in Karangasem, Bali, has provided a vital educational lifeline for 163 students from impoverished families who had nearly abandoned their studies due to financial constraints. The fully subsidised institution, which covers all costs including clothing, meals, and accommodation, has been met with relief and enthusiasm by new pupils. Many students, whose parents work as casual labourers or are unemployed, expressed that this opportunity was their only chance to continue their education beyond primary school.

Minister Reports Need for IDR 4 Trillion Down Payment for Hajj Tents

Minister of Hajj and Umrah Mochamad Irfan Yusuf has requested IDR 4 trillion from the House of Representatives to secure a down payment for Hajj services in 2027. The funds are urgently needed to meet Saudi Arabian government deadlines for confirming tent locations and basic service packages. The minister assured that the advance would be offset against future Hajj financial requirements.

Bamsoet Urges Government to Strengthen Protection of Disability Education Rights

Indonesian legislator Bambang Soesatyo has called for stronger implementation of laws guaranteeing education rights for people with disabilities, highlighting a significant gap between constitutional guarantees and reality. Data shows millions of disabled Indonesians remain out of school due to accessibility barriers, lack of specialist teachers, and persistent social stigma. He stressed the need for a human rights-based approach and consistent policy enforcement to achieve inclusive education.

Indonesia, Vietnam target US$18 billion trade by 2028

Indonesia and Vietnam have committed to boosting bilateral trade to US$18 billion by 2028, with both foreign ministers signing a memorandum of understanding in Jakarta. The agreement also aims to eliminate trade barriers, increase business interactions, and expand cooperation into maritime security, agriculture, and the electric vehicle supply chain. Vietnamese officials expressed confidence the target could be exceeded, citing strong current trade performance.

Attorney General's Office to Auction 90 South Hills Apartment Units Belonging to Convict Benny Tjokrosaputro

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office (Kejagung) has announced the auction of 90 apartment units in South Hills, Jakarta, seized from convicted corruption felon Benny Tjokrosaputro. The online auction, scheduled for 29 July 2026, aims to generate approximately Rp219.78 billion in non-tax state revenue. The assets were confiscated following a final and binding court decision in a high-profile corruption case.

Home Affairs Ministry Partners with University of Indonesia to Boost Village Head Capacity

The Ministry of Home Affairs has launched a programme with the University of Indonesia to enhance village heads' skills in governance, leadership, and local economic development. Minister Tito Karnavian highlighted the need for improved integrity and managerial ability to prevent legal issues arising from poor administration. The initiative aims to foster innovation and professional management of village funds and potential.

ITS creates electric boat tractor for peatland agriculture

Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) Surabaya has developed an electric boat tractor designed to support mechanised farming on peatlands, which are typically inaccessible to conventional machinery. The innovation, which has attracted the attention of the Ministry of Agriculture, combines flotation principles with electrification to operate on waterlogged soil without sinking. The tractor is estimated to be capable of ploughing one hectare of land on a single charge, offering lower operational costs and reduced carbon emissions.