Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 July 2026

Showing 501-550 of 1,599 articles

MAN 3 Padang Student Learnt to Assemble Bomb via Internet

A 17-year-old student at MAN 3 Padang in West Sumatra has been detained after security staff discovered a suspected homemade bomb on school premises. The student allegedly admitted to learning bomb-making techniques through online media and was inspired by a similar incident at a Jakarta school in 2025. Police are continuing to investigate the intended target and the extent of the suspect's involvement in online groups discussing explosives.

When Salaries Fail to Arrive, Congo's Ebola Frontline Workers Go on Strike

Dozens of medical staff at an Ebola treatment centre in Ituri, Democratic Republic of Congo, have gone on strike over unpaid wages and bonuses dating back to May 2026. The walkout, involving epidemiologists, contact tracers, and burial teams, threatens to disrupt the response to the largest recorded Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in Africa. The government has acknowledged payment delays, citing verification issues with the list of incentive recipients.

Minister Imipas: 20-day travel ban on ex-Jampisus Febrie is temporary

Immigration and Corrections Minister Agus Andrianto has stated that the 20-day overseas travel ban imposed on former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah is temporary. The ban was initially requested by the Metro Jaya Police, but the case has since been transferred to the Attorney General's Office. The ministry is now awaiting a formal extension request from the Attorney General's Office.

Basarnas Searches for Cargo Ship Crew Member Who Fell into Java Sea Near Seribu Islands

A search and rescue operation is underway for a Filipino chief officer who fell overboard from a Panama-flagged cargo vessel in the Java Sea. The incident occurred as the MV EVER BIRTH was preparing to anchor near the Seribu Islands on its journey from China to Tanjung Priok Port. Indonesian authorities, including Basarnas, have deployed a rescue ship and are coordinating with other agencies and nearby vessels in the search effort.

HNSI Appreciates Special Fuel Price Adjustment for Fishermen

The Indonesian Fishermen's Association (HNSI) has welcomed the government's decision to set a special diesel price of Rp15,000 per litre for fishing vessels between 30 and 200 gross tonnage. The association believes the policy will significantly reduce operational costs and strengthen the competitiveness of the fisheries sector. The government will subsidise the price difference through the Plantation Fund Management Agency, with a six-month quota of 400,000 tonnes.

Agam Regent Pushes for Accelerated Toll Road Route Designation

The Agam Regency Government is expediting the planning process for the Sicincin–Bukittinggi section of the Trans-Sumatra Toll Road, emphasising the need for accurate data to prevent future issues. During a virtual coordination meeting, four alternative routes were discussed, with two options prioritised for a joint field review due to their potentially lower social impact. The regency aims to finalise the best route swiftly to boost regional connectivity, investment, and economic growth.

Jakpro Accelerates Jakarta's Global City Connectivity Through LRT Phase 1B

Jakarta's municipally-owned enterprise PT Jakpro is fast-tracking the LRT Phase 1B project connecting Velodrome to Manggarai, with construction reaching 95% completion. The 6.4-kilometre extension is expected to begin operations in August 2026, expanding the total LRT network to 12.2 kilometres across 11 stations. Officials project the expanded line will serve 80,000 daily passengers, supporting the capital's ambition to rank among the world's top 50 global cities.

Don Ritto Denies Seized Money Linked to Corruption Cases

Don Ritto, a suspect in three corruption and money laundering cases, has denied that IDR 67.2 billion seized from his cafe and money changer in South Jakarta is connected to the charges. His lawyer claims the funds were intended for a port construction project in East Kalimantan. The case involves a former senior prosecutor and has been transferred to the Attorney General's Office.

Indonesia sees S&P rating as boost to investors' confidence

Indonesia's government has welcomed S&P Global Ratings' affirmation of its investment-grade sovereign rating, viewing it as a signal of economic resilience that will bolster investor confidence. The stable outlook reflects expectations of around five percent annual growth, and officials pledged to strengthen governance and domestic financial markets to maintain credibility. The government also cited positive assessments from the IMF and Asian Development Bank as reinforcing the country's stable economic trajectory.

Indonesia secures $30M Japanese investment for plasma industry

Japanese biopharmaceutical firm Takeda will invest $30 million to establish a national plasma bank network in Indonesia, with the first facility expected to begin operations by 2027. The Investment and Downstreaming Ministry stated the partnership will facilitate technology transfer, workforce development, and high-skilled employment. The initiative supports the government's downstreaming policy and aims to position Indonesia as a regional healthcare manufacturing hub.

Police Arrest Two Synthetic Tobacco Dealers in Serang, Seize 57 Ready-to-Sell Packets

Police in Serang, Banten, have dismantled a home-based synthetic tobacco operation, arresting two men and seizing 57 packets of the drug along with production equipment. The suspects sold the substance in various-sized packages priced between Rp 50,000 and Rp 170,000. Authorities have charged them under Indonesia's narcotics law and urged the public to report any drug-related activities.

West Jakarta Food Agency Raids Eateries Suspected of Selling Dog Meat

The West Jakarta Food, Marine and Agriculture Agency (KPKP) conducted raids on three eateries in Duri Kosambi suspected of selling dog meat. Samples were taken from one location for laboratory testing to confirm the meat's origin. The operation is part of enforcing a new gubernatorial regulation prohibiting the trade of rabies-transmitting animals for consumption.

Ministry of Industry Surpasses Revenue Target, Records IDR 447 Billion in 2025

Indonesia's Ministry of Industry reported a revenue of IDR 447.89 billion for 2025, exceeding its initial target by 16.59%. The ministry also highlighted improvements in budget absorption, the digital transformation of manufacturing, and the facilitation of fiscal incentives worth IDR 780.78 trillion to boost investment.

Economist Says Fiscal Discipline Key to Maintaining Market Confidence

An economist from Bank Danamon has stated that fiscal discipline and quality policy execution are crucial for maintaining market confidence following S&P's decision to affirm Indonesia's credit rating. He warned that while a wider deficit could boost growth, the government must guard against lower-than-expected state revenues to avoid spending cuts later in the year.

Indonesia secures $30M Japanese investment for national plasma bank network

Indonesia has secured a $30 million investment from Japan to develop a national plasma bank network, with the first facility expected to be operational by 2027. The initiative, announced by Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani, aims to boost domestic healthcare manufacturing capacity through technology transfer and skilled job creation. The deal reinforces Japan's position as a major investor in Indonesia, where its total realised investment has reached $18.1 billion since 2021.

PDAM Water Only Flows on Thursdays, Kemesu Residents Rely on Tankers and Rainwater

Residents of Kemesu in Gunungkidul are forced to purchase water by the tanker and harvest rainwater as the local water utility (PDAM) only supplies water for two hours on Thursday nights. The scarcity has led some villagers to sell their agricultural produce, such as dried cassava, just to afford clean water. The director of PDAM Tirta Handayani acknowledged the issue, attributing it to a shared water source and announcing plans to separate service lines to improve supply rotation.

MPR Speaker Conveys Indonesia's Hopes for Peace to Iran

Indonesia's People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Speaker Ahmad Muzani has conveyed the nation's strong desire for peace to Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. During a meeting in Mashhad, Muzani expressed hope that tensions between Iran and the United States can be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. The discussions also touched upon the distribution of Indonesian oil tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

Indonesia sees S&P rating as boost to investor's confidence

Indonesia's investment-grade sovereign rating has been affirmed by S&P, a move the government views as a strong signal of economic resilience amid global uncertainty. Officials pledged to strengthen governance and transparency to maintain investor confidence, while the agency cautioned that persistent fiscal or external weaknesses could put the rating under pressure.

Forestry Ministry Reveals How Tapir in Mesuji Was Killed and Cooked

The Ministry of Forestry has attributed the killing of a protected tapir in Mesuji, Lampung, to increased human-wildlife conflict driven by severe forest fragmentation. Four suspects have been arrested, with two others still at large, following a joint investigation by the BKSDA and local police. The ministry has pledged to strengthen prevention through public education and by compelling concession holders to fulfil their conservation obligations.

Jakarta Government to Dismantle Tendean Footbridge After Truck Collision

The Jakarta provincial government has decided to completely dismantle the Tendean pedestrian bridge in South Jakarta after it was severely damaged by a truck. Technical assessments deemed the structure unsafe and beyond repair, prioritising immediate demolition to restore normal traffic flow. The driver has been detained, and the government estimates material losses in the billions of rupiah, with compensation from the truck owner's company yet to be agreed.

Mothers in Bima Block LPG Truck Amid 3 kg Cylinder Scarcity

A group of women in Bima, West Nusa Tenggara, spontaneously blocked a gas transport truck to protest the scarcity and soaring price of subsidised 3 kg LPG cylinders. The residents demanded that agents and retailers sell the cylinders at the official highest retail price, which has reportedly surged to Rp 75,000 per canister. The village head confirmed the brief protest, attributing it to public frustration over distribution issues and prices far exceeding the government-mandated ceiling.

AGO Ready to Hunt for Other Bunkers and Safes Belonging to Former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah

The Attorney General's Office (AGO) has indicated it will search for additional bunkers and safes linked to former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) Febrie Adriansyah. This development follows the transfer of the corruption and money laundering case from the Indonesian National Police. Investigators are set to deepen their probe based on the case files, which currently involve three corruption objects including PT Asabri and a coal mining concession.

PFI: Tax Credit Policy to Boost Zakat Compliance and Organised Distribution

The Indonesian Philanthropy Association (PFI) supports a proposal to make zakat a direct tax credit, arguing it will significantly increase compliance and the collection of religious social funds. Currently, zakat only reduces taxable income, but a tax credit would directly lower the tax bill, providing a stronger incentive for formal donations. Experts believe this shift could transform giving patterns, channelling more of the estimated Rp343 trillion in Muslim philanthropy through official institutions rather than informal means.

Focus on Reducing Forest Fire Numbers Through Prevention and Improved Governance

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni is targeting a reduction in forest and land fires by strengthening prevention measures and overhauling field management. The move comes as the dry season is projected to arrive earlier and last longer than usual. The ministry will also evaluate control instruments and improve regulations for long-term structural reform.

Tendean Road in South Jakarta Closed Due to Demolition of Damaged Pedestrian Bridge

A section of Jalan Kapten Tendean in South Jakarta was closed on Tuesday afternoon to allow for the demolition of a pedestrian bridge that was severely damaged in a collision. The bridge was struck by a heavy equipment transporter the previous night, necessitating its immediate removal. The closure has caused significant traffic congestion on surrounding roads, including Jalan Gatot Subroto and Jalan Wijaya.

Police Chief, Military Commander, and Prosecutor in Musi Banyuasin Strengthen Solidarity Through Gymnastics and Table Tennis

Senior officials from the police, military, and prosecutor's office in Musi Banyuasin Regency, South Sumatra, held a joint sports event to bolster inter-agency solidarity and coordination. The gathering, which included the regent and other local leaders, aimed to reinforce collaboration in maintaining public order, supporting law enforcement, and overseeing regional development programmes.

Minister Amran Visits Aceh Coffee Plantations, Delivers Promising News to Farmers

Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman claims the government's downstreaming programme has boosted farmer incomes in Aceh by up to Rp4 trillion, driven by rising Gayo coffee prices. He also announced the distribution of 17 million coffee seedlings and expressed optimism that a new single-door export policy will strengthen Indonesia's bargaining power in the global market.

Prabowo Invited by Iran to Visit Tehran

Iran has extended an official invitation to Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to visit Tehran. The invitation was conveyed by MPR Chairman Ahmad Muzani following his attendance at the funeral of Iran's former supreme leader in Mashhad. Muzani has relayed the invitation to Prabowo, though the president's response is not yet known.

Purbaya's Plan to Chase Rp2,357 T Without Raising Rates: Hunt Tax Evaders

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa plans to expand the tax base by pursuing tax evaders and incorporating the informal and shadow economies, rather than increasing tax rates. This strategy aims to meet the 2026 state budget tax revenue target of Rp2,357.7 trillion. The government will focus on compliance from online sellers and previously untaxed sectors while assuring compliant taxpayers they will not face aggressive audits.

National bullion bank accumulates 153 tons of gold: ministry

Indonesia's national bullion bank has accumulated approximately 153 tons of gold through state-backed institutions Pegadaian and Bank Syariah Indonesia since its launch in February 2025. The initiative aims to monetise domestic gold holdings and integrate them into the formal financial system, supporting efforts to deepen the financial market and strengthen economic resilience. The government is also pursuing complementary reforms including expanded local currency transactions and tighter regulation of natural resource export proceeds.

The Dream of Abdullah bin Zaid That Led to the Prescription of the Adhan for Muslims

The article recounts the origin story of the Islamic call to prayer, the adhan, which was inspired by a dream experienced by the Prophet Muhammad's companion, Abdullah bin Zaid. Upon recounting his dream to the Prophet, it was affirmed as a true vision, and Bilal was instructed to deliver the call due to his powerful voice. The piece highlights this significant historical and religious event, noting the companion's death in the year 32 Hijriah.

Jakarta Estimates Billions in Losses from Tendean Footbridge Damage, Truck Owner Yet to Agree on Compensation

The Jakarta provincial government estimates the damage from a truck collision with the Tendean pedestrian bridge in South Jakarta to be in the billions of rupiah. No agreement on a compensation mechanism has yet been reached with the company that owns the vehicle. The bridge has been declared structurally unsound and is being demolished, with reconstruction plans pending further technical review.

Jambi Police Uncover IDR 144 Billion Bank Jambi Account Breach Affecting 6,609 Customers

The Jambi Regional Police's Criminal Investigation Directorate has uncovered a major cybercrime case involving the breach of 6,609 Bank Jambi customer accounts, resulting in losses of IDR 144.82 billion. Three suspects have been named as part of an international network that recruited drivers to open bank and cryptocurrency accounts for laundering the stolen funds. The police are now pursuing the main suspects, believed to be Bulgarian nationals, and working to recover the assets.

Blueray Trial Reveals Hundreds of Millions for Customs Officials' Karaoke

A personal assistant at PT Blueray Cargo testified that the company spent hundreds of millions of rupiah on entertainment, including karaoke, for officials at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. The expenses were recorded under the code 'Sales 02' and paid with a corporate credit card. The trial involves multiple customs officials accused of accepting bribes and gratuities totalling billions of rupiah to expedite import processing.

Creative Economy Ministry Strengthens Cooperatives Through Village Creative Economy Empowerment

The Ministry of Creative Economy is reinforcing cooperatives, including the new Village/Sub-district Red and White Cooperatives, by empowering local creative economy actors. This initiative is part of the Creative Economy Masterplan (Rindekraf) 2026-2045, which aims to develop villages into creative economy hubs. The programme aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's directive to make cooperatives the foundation of national economic revival, starting from the village level.

Central Java Provincial Assistance Revives Economy of Ayamputih Village

The Central Java provincial government's mentoring programme has spurred economic revival in Ayamputih Village, Kebumen, through multi-sector collaboration and sustainable business development. A food festival showcased the results, including a partnership between the village-owned enterprise and a provincial agro-company to support a layer chicken farm. The initiative, which has channelled nearly half a billion rupiah in aid, aims to reduce poverty and strengthen village self-reliance.

Immigration Minister: Former Jampidsus Febrie Banned from Travel for 20 Days

Immigration and Corrections Minister Agus Andrianto has confirmed a 20-day travel ban against former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) Febrie Ardiansyah. The ban was imposed at the request of Jakarta Metropolitan Police investigators after Febrie was named a suspect in a corruption case involving alleged money laundering. The Attorney General's Office has also refuted social media claims that Febrie had travelled abroad for umrah, stating he remains in Indonesia under investigator surveillance.

Ikopin University Marks 62nd Anniversary, Champions Cooperative Literacy Movement for Indonesia

Universitas Koperasi Indonesia (Ikopin University) celebrated its 62nd Dies Natalis with a national seminar focused on revitalising the cooperative movement as a pillar of the national economy. Speakers, including a member of the House of Representatives and the university's rector, emphasised the importance of education, traditional mutual cooperation values, and successful models like Koperasi Keling Kumang. The event reinforced the university's commitment to developing human resources and modern, competitive cooperatives in line with the economic principles of the 1945 Constitution.

Lawyer denies Don Ritto's involvement in corruption case

The legal counsel for Don Ritto, a suspect in a corruption and money laundering case, has refuted his client's involvement in three separate clusters of alleged graft being investigated by the police. Handika Hanggowongso stated that the cash seized from Ritto's cafe, money changer, and home was purely for a port development project in East Kalimantan. The lawyer also highlighted procedural irregularities in the search and seizure process.

Pendekar 08 Holds Free Mass Circumcision, a Tangible Form of Gotong Royong for the Community

The community organisation Pendekar 08, in collaboration with the Banten provincial government and South Tangerang city administration, has held a free mass circumcision event. The initiative aims to improve children's health while easing the financial burden on families, reflecting a cross-sector commitment to social welfare. Organisers emphasised that building the nation requires investment in human capital through accessible healthcare services.

West Bandung Civil Servant Named Corruption Suspect in Rp1.5 Billion Grant Case Suspended

A civil servant in West Bandung Regency has been temporarily suspended after being named a suspect in the alleged misappropriation of a Rp1.5 billion grant from the West Java Provincial Government. The suspect, identified as S, reportedly failed to use the funds intended for a foundation's land acquisition and construction projects. The local government has also halted his salary and refused legal assistance, pending a permanent dismissal after a final court ruling.

Chinese Smartphone Sales Slump Further, Traders Face Bleak Outlook in 2026

Global smartphone shipments fell 11% year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026, the steepest Q2 decline since 2013, driven by a memory chip shortage and rising component costs. Chinese brands Xiaomi, Oppo, and vivo were hit hardest due to their reliance on entry-level and mid-range segments, while Samsung and Apple managed to increase their market share. The downturn is expected to persist, with full-year shipments forecast to drop 14% as consumers delay purchases and manufacturers prioritise value over volume.

South Sumatra Police Dismantle Illegal Mining Network in Muara Enim

South Sumatra Regional Police have uncovered an illegal coal mining network in Muara Enim Regency, arresting 11 suspects. The operation, conducted on 8 and 10 July 2026, targeted unlicensed mining activities within the concession area of state-owned PT Bukit Asam. The illicit operations are estimated to have caused state losses of approximately Rp 95.9 billion.

Indonesia, Vietnam target US$18 billion trade by 2028

Indonesia and Vietnam have signed a memorandum of understanding committing to boost bilateral trade to US$18 billion by 2028. The agreement, reached during a joint commission meeting in Jakarta, includes plans to eliminate trade barriers and increase investment. Both nations also pledged to enhance cooperation in areas such as maritime security, agriculture, and the electric vehicle supply chain.

Bekasi Mayor Tri Adhianto Stresses Child-Friendly Schools Free from Bullying

Bekasi Mayor Tri Adhianto Tjahyono has officially launched the 2026/2027 School Environment Introduction Period (MPLS), emphasising the creation of a safe and supportive educational ecosystem. He warned educators against any form of violence or bullying, urging schools to become a nurturing 'second home' for students. The city administration is also encouraging parental involvement on the first day to boost children's confidence as they begin their academic journey.

Tendean Pedestrian Bridge Demolished After Truck Collision, Losses Estimated in Billions

A pedestrian bridge (JPO) on Jalan Kapten Tendean in Jakarta must be demolished after suffering severe structural damage from a collision with a crane truck. The DKI Jakarta Bina Marga Agency estimates material losses in the billions of rupiah and has not yet determined a timeline for reconstruction. The truck driver has been detained by authorities, while the agency urges heavy vehicle operators to adhere to height restrictions to prevent future incidents.

Preacher Gus Miftah Allegedly Received Rp100 Million from Railway Corruption Case

Indonesian preacher Gus Miftah has been implicated in a corruption trial involving railway infrastructure projects at the Ministry of Transportation. A convicted official testified that Miftah received Rp100 million from the Solo-Semarang double-track project. The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is reviewing the testimony before deciding on further legal steps.

Singapore's economic growth projected to slow in Q2

Singapore's economic growth is estimated to have slowed to 5.7 per cent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026, down from 6.3 per cent in the previous quarter. The manufacturing sector saw an acceleration, driven by strong demand for semiconductors and AI-related equipment, while the chemicals and biomedical clusters contracted. The figures are based on advance estimates and will be updated in August.

KPK to Analyse Testimony on Alleged Rp 100 Million Flow to Gus Miftah in Railway Project Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is analysing court testimony alleging that preacher Gus Miftah received Rp 100 million in connection with a railway project corruption case. The statement emerged during the trial of a former commitment-making official for the Solo-Semarang double track project. The KPK has not ruled out summoning Gus Miftah as a witness and may pursue asset seizure if the allegation is proven.

Gus Yahya: PBNU Congress to Be Held at End of August

Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) Chairman Gus Yahya has confirmed that the 35th NU Congress will take place at the historic Bahrul Ulum Islamic Boarding School in Jombang, East Java, from 27 to 31 August 2026. He emphasised that preparations are complete and that the organisation will propose a 25-year strategic roadmap. Gus Yahya also dismissed rumours of presidential interference, asserting that President Prabowo respects NU's independence.