Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 July 2026

Showing 651-700 of 1,599 articles

Danamon Syariah Prepares Gold Product for Hajj Planning

PT Bank Danamon Indonesia's Sharia Business Unit is developing a gold-based savings product designed to help customers gradually plan for Hajj expenses, with a launch targeted for early 2027. The product will be integrated with the bank's digital services and specifically tailored to support Hajj financial planning. Danamon Syariah is expanding its Hajj ecosystem offerings, which already include Hajj financing, savings plans, and transaction services for customers in Saudi Arabia.

BPS DKI Finds Many Residents Have Moved Addresses Ahead of 2026 Economic Census

The 2026 Economic Census has revealed significant discrepancies in Jakarta's population data, with many residents no longer living at their registered addresses. BPS DKI Jakarta is intensifying field verification using identity cards to ensure data accuracy. The census is considered crucial for providing a comprehensive economic picture and addressing issues such as gender inequality in the business sector.

A Decade After South China Sea Arbitration, Regional Stability Must Be Priority

A senior analyst from the South China Sea Council has urged ASEAN nations to prioritise stability over legal debates, a decade after the landmark 2016 arbitration ruling. Anak Agung Banyu Perwita noted that the ruling has not resolved disputes, as strategic rivalries and maritime tensions continue to escalate. He stressed that accelerating the Code of Conduct negotiations with China is now more critical than revisiting the arbitration decision.

Golkar Faction Alleges Illegal Tourism Accommodations in Denpasar Enjoy 'Protection'

The Golkar faction in the Denpasar Regional House of Representatives has alleged the existence of illegal tourism accommodations operating under protection, leading to tax revenue leakage. The Denpasar city government has pledged to investigate the claims and form a task force to address the issue.

S&P Maintains Indonesia's Credit Rating, Purbaya Encourages Investment

International ratings agency S&P has maintained Indonesia's sovereign credit rating at BBB long-term and A-2 short-term, reinforcing confidence in the nation's fiscal management. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa expressed optimism that the decision will gradually improve global investor sentiment and urged market participants to invest in stocks. He also predicted a strengthening of the rupiah, advising holders of US dollars to sell.

Freeport Indonesia targets 43 tonnes of gold production by 2028

PT Freeport Indonesia aims to produce 43 tonnes of gold and 1.6 billion pounds of copper by 2028, following the full recovery of its Grasberg Block Cave underground mine. The production ramp-up is contingent on restoring capacity after a landslide in September 2025 disrupted operations. The company presented its recovery timeline and production forecasts during a parliamentary hearing in Jakarta.

PBNU Chairman Confirms NU Congress Ready to Proceed, to Discuss National Interest

The Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress is scheduled for 27-31 August 2026 in Jombang, East Java, with preparations reportedly on track. PBNU Chairman Yahya Cholil Staquf stated the congress will address strategic issues including a 25-year roadmap, clerical values, and digital management systems. The event is expected to produce outcomes beneficial to both the NU community and the broader Indonesian nation.

House Commission VIII Urges Hajj Ministry to Secure Down Payment Proof from Saudi Arabia

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission VIII has urged the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to obtain proper documentation for the down payment of Hajj operations to Saudi Arabia. The commission stressed the need for accountability to avoid administrative issues during state audits, especially given the tight deadline. The ministry has proposed a down payment of Rp4 trillion for the 2027 Hajj season.

Jaecoo J5 Electric Car Tops Sales with 3,041 Units, Here's the Trigger

The Jaecoo J5 maintained its position as Indonesia's best-selling battery electric vehicle in June 2026, with wholesale distribution reaching 3,041 units. Overall BEV sales rose significantly to 12,653 units, contributing 16 per cent to total national car sales for the first half of the year. Jaecoo Indonesia attributed the model's success to its SUV design and low daily running costs.

Volkswagen Could Cut 100,000 Jobs Amid Business Restructuring

Volkswagen Group has signalled that up to 100,000 jobs could be affected globally as it restructures to cope with falling sales and rising competition from China. An internal memo from CEO Oliver Blume suggests an additional 50,000 job cuts are being evaluated on top of previously agreed reductions. The potential cuts come as the company's operating profit and sales volumes have declined significantly since its peak in 2019.

Homemade Bomb Explodes at MAN 3 Padang, No Fatalities

A low-explosive homemade bomb detonated at Madrasah Aliyah Negeri (MAN) 3 Padang in West Sumatra on Tuesday afternoon, causing no casualties. A 17-year-old student has been arrested on suspicion of assembling and planting the device, reportedly after learning bomb-making online and being inspired by a similar attack in Jakarta. Police are also investigating claims the suspect was motivated by revenge for being bullied at school.

Jakarta Administration Reviews Rebuilding of Tendean Footbridge After Truck Collision

The Jakarta Bina Marga Agency has confirmed the Tendean pedestrian bridge will be rebuilt after a crane truck collision caused severe structural damage. The agency is prioritising demolition to restore traffic flow, while the timeline for reconstruction remains uncertain pending a technical review. Material losses are estimated in the billions of rupiah, and the truck driver has been detained for legal processing.

MPR Speaker Muzani Reveals Iran Plans to Invite President Prabowo to Tehran

MPR Speaker Ahmad Muzani has disclosed that the Iranian government intends to invite Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to Tehran. Muzani conveyed the invitation to Prabowo and also discussed issues including shipping access to the Strait of Hormuz and Indonesia's desire for peace in the Middle East during a meeting with Iranian officials.

DPR Member Asserts PPPK Cannot Be Laid Off Due to Budget Efficiency

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has firmly stated that government workers with work agreements (PPPK) cannot be laid off, citing the state's constitutional duty to pay their salaries. The statement responds to reports of potential dismissals in several regions due to fiscal constraints. The legislator urged local governments to cut non-essential operational spending instead of terminating employees and called for a national audit of PPPK formations and financing.

KPK Communicates with Attorney General's Office on Febrie Adriansyah Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has initiated formal communication with the Attorney General's Office regarding the corruption and money laundering case involving former junior attorney general Febrie Adriansyah. The KPK chairman confirmed that a verbal request for supervision has been made following the transfer of the case from the police's anti-corruption unit. The KPK will await a formal written request before proceeding with its supervisory role as mandated by law.

IHSG Stagnates Today, Holds at 6,000 Level

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) closed nearly flat on Tuesday after high volatility, erasing early gains. The index was weighed down by major banking stocks, which corrected following a previous rally sparked by S&P's decision to maintain Indonesia's investment grade rating. Trading value surged to Rp15.36 trillion, significantly above the recent daily average.

Education Ministry Receives Praise for Delivering President's Tangible Breakthroughs

Indonesia's Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has been commended for its rapid implementation of President Prabowo Subianto's campaign promises, including free health checks and school revitalisation. Government Communications Head Muhammad Qodari highlighted the ministry's extraordinary performance in translating the president's vision into concrete programmes. Minister Abdul Mu'ti affirmed the ministry's commitment to delivering high-quality, inclusive education as part of a broader effort to build national human capital resilience.

Habiburokhman Reveals Febrie Case Oversight Committee to Meet Soon

The House of Representatives' Commission III will soon convene its working committee overseeing the case of former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah. The meeting aims to establish the committee's working mechanisms and ensure the legal process proceeds without inter-institutional friction. The commission has stressed that the high-profile corruption cases involving coal, ASABRI, and Krakatau Steel are linked to rogue individuals rather than the institutions themselves.

Riau Receives Additional Home Renovation Quota, Total Reaches 5,000 Units for 2026

The central government has increased the quota for the Home Renovation Stimulant Assistance Programme (BSPS) in Riau Province to 5,000 units for 2026, a significant rise from the initial 433 units. Acting Governor SF Hariyanto expressed gratitude to President Prabowo Subianto and the housing minister, noting that 21.2 per cent of households in the province still lack access to adequate housing. The programme aims to address not only housing supply but also issues of affordability, construction quality, and basic infrastructure.

AI Trends in Southeast Asia: Indonesian Among Top 3 Languages Used on Gemini

Indonesian has emerged as one of the three most used languages on Google's Gemini AI platform in Southeast Asia, according to a new report. The Gemini Southeast Asia Report 2026 highlights rapid AI adoption in the region, with local language use dominating interactions. Google attributes this growth to the model's ability to understand local context and cultural nuances.

West Java Police Examine 31 Witnesses in Bandung Woman's Confinement Case

West Java Regional Police have questioned 31 witnesses as they continue investigating the alleged confinement and torture of a woman, identified as YTR, in Bandung Regency. The suspect, Taufik Hidayat, is accused of holding the victim captive for approximately three years and assaulting her with various objects, including a helmet, an iron table leg, and a machete. The victim sustained severe injuries affecting her vision, speech, and ability to walk, while the case file has not yet been submitted to the High Prosecutor's Office.

Human Rights Ministry pushes for TNI and Polri regulations with human rights perspective

Indonesia's Ministry of Human Rights is evaluating and pushing for revisions to military and police regulations to align them with human rights principles. The ministry plans to analyse 10 strategic regulations in 2026, including the laws on the National Police and Military Courts. Recommendations will be issued to relevant institutions to ensure all legislation incorporates a human rights-based approach.

Freeport Projects Rp47.05 Trillion State Contribution in 2026

PT Freeport Indonesia forecasts its contribution to the state will reach US$2.6 billion in 2026, a decrease from the previous year due to ongoing recovery from a landslide at its Grasberg Block Cave mine. The contribution includes taxes, royalties, and a US$1.1 billion dividend channelled through state-owned mining holding MIND ID. The company expects state revenues to rebound to US$4.7 billion by 2027 and exceed US$7 billion annually once full production capacity is restored.

Ministers Ara and Nusron Announce Free House Certificates for Low-Income Communities, Targeting Three Groups

The Indonesian government has launched a new policy providing free housing certificates for low-income communities (MBR) through a collaboration between the Ministry of Housing and the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs. The initiative integrates with existing programmes such as the Self-Help Housing Stimulant Assistance (BSPS) and People's Business Credit (KUR) for housing. Three specific groups of beneficiaries have been identified to receive the free certification, aiming to provide legal certainty and support economic improvement.

Bank Mandiri Donates Literacy Vehicle to CTARSA Foundation

Bank Mandiri has provided a literacy vehicle to the CTARSA Foundation during a ceremony welcoming 160 new students. The students were selected from 2,560 applicants across Central and East Java. The foundation's free boarding school programme aims to equip young people with quality education to help break the cycle of poverty.

Sumedang BPBD Distributes 5,000 Litres of Water to Tackle Drought in Cimalaka

The Sumedang Regency Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has delivered 5,000 litres of clean water to 98 households in Cimalaka District facing a water crisis due to the dry season. The emergency response aims to meet the basic needs of approximately 200 residents in Dusun Cikaramas. Authorities are continuing to monitor drought-prone areas and have urged the public to conserve water and report any shortages promptly.

China Expresses Concern Over Rising US-Iran Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz

Beijing has voiced deep concern over escalating tensions in the Gulf region following the US decision to reactivate a blockade on Iranian ports. China is urging all conflicting parties to exercise restraint and uphold previously established peace efforts. The statement highlights the importance of protecting civilian safety and ensuring the security of international shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz.

S&P Rating a Momentum to Maintain Investor Confidence: Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs

Indonesia's Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs has stated that S&P Global Ratings' decision to maintain the country's credit rating is a crucial momentum to bolster investor confidence. The government views the rating as a reflection of trust in the nation's economic resilience amid global uncertainty. Authorities plan to strengthen governance, transparency, and financial market depth to sustain this credibility.

DPR Targets Completion of Asset Forfeiture Bill by 2026

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has reaffirmed its commitment to passing the Asset Forfeiture Bill, dismissing rumours of rejection. The bill is considered a key instrument in strengthening the country's anti-corruption framework. Lawmakers are targeting to complete the deliberation process within 2026, with the possibility of holding sessions during the recess period to meet the deadline.

Several Companies Eye Gas Downstream Investment in Arun SEZ

The Aceh provincial government has revealed that a number of domestic and foreign companies are exploring gas downstream investments in the Arun Lhokseumawe Special Economic Zone (SEZ). Interest is emerging despite the central government not yet deciding on the development scheme for the Tangkulo Gas Field in the South Andaman Block. The province is positioning the Arun SEZ as the hub for industrial gas development, aligning with national strategic project plans.

Minister of Religious Affairs: Indonesia Has Potential to Become Epicentre of Modern Islamic Civilisation

Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar has stated that Indonesia has a significant opportunity to become the new epicentre of modern Islamic civilisation, citing strong macroeconomic stability and a moderate Muslim populace. He emphasised that achieving this requires transforming the competencies of Islamic university alumni to master modern science alongside classical religious knowledge. Umar called for the nation to produce a thousand figures like the late President B.J. Habibie to realise this ambition.

House Commission III Assesses Acting Jampidsus as Capable of Performing Duties

House of Representatives Commission III Chairman Habiburokhman has expressed confidence in Acting Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes Rudi Margono's performance. The assessment comes amid a leadership vacuum following the resignation of the previous officeholder. The House is awaiting an official announcement from the Attorney General's Office regarding a definitive appointment.

KPK and Yaqut ready to disclose details in hajj quota corruption trial

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) and former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas have declared their readiness to reveal full details during the upcoming trial over alleged corruption in hajj quota management. The case involves state losses estimated at Rp622 billion, with Yaqut and three other defendants now facing prosecution. The trial is expected to clarify the construction of the case, the roles of the accused, and the supporting evidence.

Indonesia's green path toward global climate leadership

Indonesia is positioning itself as a global leader in climate action by integrating environmental goals into its core development strategy. The country is advancing its FOLU Net Sink 2030 initiative, which has already contributed to significant emissions reductions through peatland and mangrove restoration, while also developing a domestic carbon exchange to attract green investment. This approach reframes forest conservation as both a pillar of economic sovereignty and a critical component of global climate infrastructure.

Residents demand Tendean pedestrian bridge be rebuilt after truck collision

Residents of Mampang Prapatan in South Jakarta are urging the authorities to rebuild the pedestrian bridge on Jalan Kapten Tendean after it was struck by a heavy equipment transporter. The bridge is considered a vital and safe crossing point over a busy, accident-prone road, and its absence forces pedestrians to take a long detour. Locals have also raised concerns about rubbish accumulation on the bridge and the recurring issue of tall vehicles getting stuck.

Indonesia and Japan Build Southeast Asia's First Plasma Ecosystem

Indonesia's Ministry of Health has partnered with Japanese biopharmaceutical firm Takeda to establish Southeast Asia's first upstream-downstream plasma derivative drug ecosystem, marked by the granting of a plasma fractionation permit. The initiative involves an initial US$30 million investment to set up plasma banks by 2027, aiming to secure domestic access to essential therapies and reduce reliance on imports. The collaboration is also expected to drive technology transfer, human resource development, and position Indonesia as a regional hub for advanced pharmaceutical manufacturing.

EU Pledges €900 Million in Development Aid for Gaza Reconstruction

The European Union has committed approximately €900 million for reconstruction efforts in the Gaza Strip, focusing on restoring water, sanitation, health, and food systems. The aid will be channelled through a newly established Gaza Initiative Team, bypassing Hamas, which is designated a terrorist organisation by the bloc. The pledge was made during a conference in Brussels attended by Palestinian representatives and members of the US-backed Board of Peace.

Sovereign Expedition Supplies Rp6 Billion in Fit Currency to North Kalimantan Border

Bank Indonesia and the Indonesian Navy have launched the 2026 Sovereign Rupiah Expedition to distribute Rp6 billion in fit currency to remote border areas of North Kalimantan. The initiative, utilising the warship KRI Ajak 653, aims to ensure the availability of legal tender and support economic activity in the nation's frontier regions. This effort underscores the government's commitment to maintaining currency sovereignty and financial inclusion in geographically challenging territories.

Deputy Minister of Housing and DIY Governor Discuss President's Urban Planning Vision

Deputy Minister of Housing and Settlement Areas Fahri Hamzah met with Yogyakarta Governor Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X to discuss President Prabowo Subianto's major plans for urban renewal across Indonesia. The discussion focused on modernising cities and creating new residential areas, drawing on Yogyakarta's extensive experience in urban management. The meeting is seen as an initial step towards applying these transformative plans, including the three million homes programme, to heritage cities like Yogyakarta.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Drafts Educational Material to Prevent Spread of LGBTQ Culture

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs is developing educational materials aimed at preventing the spread of what it terms 'LGBTQ culture' among students in religious educational institutions. The initiative follows a presidential regulation that classifies the spread of LGBTQ culture as a non-military threat. The ministry plans to integrate the content into subjects such as religious education and civics, with materials tailored to different educational levels.

Bappenas Develops Sea Level Rise Analysis Through SEPAKAT System

Indonesia's Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas) has launched a new analytical tool to map the socio-economic impacts of rising sea levels. The analysis, integrated into the SEPAKAT system, identifies vulnerable populations, strategic infrastructure, and micro-enterprises at risk from a projected 25-centimetre sea level rise. The initiative, supported by the Australian government, aims to enable earlier mitigation and resilience-building across affected regions.

Sun Over the Kaaba on 15-16 July: What Time and How to Check the Qibla Direction

The astronomical phenomenon of the sun passing directly over the Kaaba, known as Rashdul Kiblat, will occur on 15 and 16 July, providing an opportunity for Muslims in Indonesia to accurately verify their prayer direction. The Ministry of Religious Affairs has issued guidance on using the shadow of a vertical object at 16:27 WIB to determine the qibla. The event is part of the 'Indonesia Berkiblat 2026' national movement, which aims to improve public literacy in astronomy and ensure the accuracy of the qibla in places of worship and public facilities.

Warning from Beijing: Europe Could Lose Out if It Continues to Support SCS Arbitration Ruling

China has urged European nations to withdraw their support for the 2016 South China Sea arbitration ruling, which Beijing deems illegal. A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson warned that endorsing the ruling could disrupt relations and cooperation with China. The statement follows recent joint declarations by several European countries, the US, and the Philippines marking the ruling's anniversary.

Danantara CEO: Mineral Processing Industry Supports National Strategic Needs

Danantara CEO Rosan Roeslani has called for Indonesia to become a sovereign player in the global supply chain, moving beyond raw material extraction. He emphasised that the nation's vast mineral wealth, including nickel, bauxite, and copper, must be leveraged to build a domestic advanced materials industry. A new agreement between several state-owned enterprises aims to optimise the supply of critical minerals for strategic sectors such as electric vehicles and defence.

National Gold Bank Accumulates 153 Tonnes of Gold in a Year

Indonesia's national bullion ecosystem has amassed approximately 153 tonnes of gold since its launch in February 2025, according to a senior government official. The initiative is part of broader efforts to deepen the domestic financial market and bolster economic resilience amid global uncertainty. The government is also expanding local currency transactions with key trading partners and preparing substantial microcredit programmes to support productive sectors.

JPMorgan Banker Sees Opportunities as S&P Affirms Indonesia's Credit Rating

A senior JPMorgan executive has welcomed S&P's decision to maintain Indonesia's sovereign credit rating at BBB with a stable outlook, viewing it as a positive signal for investors. The banker highlighted that while challenges such as Rupiah volatility and oil prices remain, the government's commitment to fiscal discipline and a deficit below 3% bolsters market confidence. Rising commodity prices are also expected to support state revenues.

BM PAN appoints Slamet Ariyadi as chairman for 2026–2031

The youth wing of the National Mandate Party (PAN), BM PAN, has elected Slamet Ariyadi as its new chairman for the 2026–2031 period during its seventh congress in Anyer, Banten. Ariyadi pledged to maintain the organisation's alignment with PAN and its leader Zulkifli Hasan while focusing on real action and solutions for local communities. He also committed to fostering unity, progressive ideas, and strengthening the group's role as a platform for developing future leaders.

Baznas Equips Regional Leaders with Strategies for Impactful Zakat Management

Indonesia's National Zakat Agency (Baznas) is training provincial and district leaders in Riau on professional zakat management. The three-day programme aims to enhance leadership capacity, ensuring the collection and distribution of zakat provides tangible benefits to the community. The training covers governance, ethics, fundraising, and public relations.

Minister Purbaya Urges Investors to Buy Stocks After S&P Affirms Indonesia's Rating

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has advised investors to purchase stocks and sell US dollars following S&P Global Ratings' decision to maintain Indonesia's sovereign credit rating. He stated the affirmation dispels negative market sentiment and doubts about the country's economic fundamentals. The minister suggested that savvy investors should immediately capitalise on the renewed confidence in the Indonesian economy.

Indonesia Urges US and Iran to Uphold Peace Agreement Amid Hormuz Blockade

Indonesia has called on the United States and Iran to adhere to a recently signed peace memorandum and immediately cease hostilities in the Strait of Hormuz. Foreign Minister Sugiono reaffirmed Indonesia's consistent position for regional stability following a new US 'blockade' policy and a proposed 20 percent levy on commercial shipping. The escalating conflict, which resumed despite a June agreement, threatens to disrupt international trade and impact the Indonesian economy.