Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 July 2026

Showing 801-850 of 1,599 articles

NAVI-HF Uses AI to Detect Lung Fluid in Heart Failure Patients

Researchers from the University of Indonesia have developed an AI-powered medical device called NAVI-HF to objectively detect lung congestion in heart failure patients. The device analyses chest sounds and has demonstrated 86 per cent accuracy in clinical tests. The innovation aims to identify high-risk patients before they leave hospital, potentially reducing readmission rates.

Ministry of Finance Approves Additional Budget for Religious Affairs Ministry's Teacher Allowances

The Ministry of Finance has approved a supplementary budget of IDR 5.783 trillion for the Ministry of Religious Affairs to fund the Professional Teacher Allowance (TPG). The allocation will cover payments for Islamic Education teachers and madrasa teachers who completed their professional education in 2025, as well as lecturers at religious higher education institutions. The Ministry of Religious Affairs is now overseeing the final administrative processes to ensure the funds can be disbursed promptly.

From Classroom to World Stage: UNM Data Science Student Leads IEEE Student Branch

Guntur Surawijaya, a fourth-semester Data Science student at Universitas Nusa Mandiri (UNM), has been appointed Chair of the university's IEEE Student Branch and selected as a volunteer for the international YESIST12 Grand Finale. His achievements highlight UNM's commitment to developing students with global leadership skills and technological expertise beyond academic excellence.

OJK: Financial Industry Must Strengthen GRC to Face Global Risks

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has urged the financial services industry to bolster governance, risk management, and compliance (GRC) to navigate increasingly complex global challenges. The call was made during the Risk and Governance Summit 2026, where officials highlighted threats such as cyber risks, AI misuse, and geopolitical uncertainty. Strengthening GRC is seen as essential for institutional resilience and sustainable economic growth, aligning with the government's focus on bureaucratic reform and good governance.

After B50: Reorganising national logistics

The implementation of the B50 biodiesel programme marks a strategic shift towards energy sovereignty, but its success hinges on a resilient national logistics system. The increased domestic demand for palm oil as feedstock risks disrupting supply chains for food and other industries unless production and distribution are overhauled. The true measure of success will be Indonesia's ability to build a system where energy and food security reinforce each other.

Klungkung Regency Borrows IDR 18 Billion to Develop Watuklotok Temple Area

The Klungkung Regency administration has secured a second loan tranche of IDR 18 billion from PT Sarana Multi Infrastruktur to finance the development of the Watuklotok Temple area. The total loan facility amounts to IDR 68.6 billion, with the first tranche of IDR 50.6 billion signed in July 2026. The project aims to enhance the temple's role as a spiritual and cultural tourism destination while the regency highlights its strong economic growth and declining poverty rates.

Sidrap Inspectorate Rolls Out Strategic Innovations to Foster Clean and Modern Bureaucracy

The Regional Inspectorate of Sidrap Regency has launched a series of strategic digital innovations aimed at strengthening governance integrity and efficiency. Key programmes include an interactive anti-gratification initiative and a digital knowledge management system for civil servants. These efforts are designed to enhance transparency, prevent corruption, and modernise administrative processes within the local government.

Freeport Copper Production to Fully Recover by End of 2027 After Landslide

PT Freeport Indonesia expects its underground mining capacity at Grasberg Block Cave to return to 100% by the end of 2027, following a landslide in September 2025. The company is undertaking a gradual ramp-up, prioritising safety, with production this year forecast at just 65% of total capacity. A new smelter is scheduled to resume full operations in September 2026, while a new mine at the Kucing Liar block is being prepared for production in 2029.

MPR Speaker Delivers Iranian Government's Invitation to President Prabowo

The Speaker of Indonesia's People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), Ahmad Muzani, has conveyed an official invitation from the Iranian government for President Prabowo Subianto to visit Tehran. The invitation was extended during Muzani's attendance at the funeral of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Mashhad. Muzani stated he has passed the invitation to President Prabowo but is not yet aware of the president's response.

BlueRay HRD Admits Writing Codes and Stuffing Envelopes with Cash for Customs Officials

A human resources manager from PT BlueRay Cargo testified that she was instructed by the company owner to prepare coded envelopes of cash for officials at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. Viny Liverie Lie told a Jakarta corruption court she personally exchanged rupiah for Singapore dollars and placed the money into envelopes marked with codes and initials. Three senior customs officials are on trial for allegedly accepting bribes and gratuities totalling Rp 78.8 billion.

National Police Chief and Attorney General Sit Together at Book Launch in Parliament

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo and Attorney General Sanitiar Burhanuddin appeared together at the launch of an annotated criminal procedure code book in Jakarta. The event, hosted by House Commission III, aimed to showcase the strong partnership between law enforcement institutions. The chairman of Commission III also expressed hope that the cordial meeting would ease any tensions arising from recent legal developments.

Ponorogo Regent Demands 7-Year Prison Sentence in Bribery and Gratification Case

Prosecutors have demanded a seven-year prison sentence for the non-active Regent of Ponorogo, Sugiri Sancoko, for his role in a bribery and gratification scandal involving the sale of public office and a hospital construction project. The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) alleges Sugiri received at least Rp6.76 billion in illicit payments. Two other defendants, a regional secretary and a former hospital director, also face substantial prison terms in the case.

Three Codes Used by 'Koh John' to Bribe Customs Officials: BC, Sales 2, and Biru

A human resources manager from PT BlueRay Cargo testified in a Jakarta corruption court about the coded language used to refer to customs officials during a bribery scheme. The witness confirmed that company boss John Field initiated the use of terms like 'BC', 'Sales 2', and 'Biru' to disguise payments. Three senior officials from the Directorate General of Customs and Excise are currently on trial for allegedly accepting bribes and gratuities totalling Rp 78.8 billion.

Domestic Worker in West Jakarta Embezzles Employer's ATM Funds Totalling Rp 450 Million, Used to Purchase Car

Police in West Jakarta have arrested a 33-year-old domestic worker for allegedly embezzling Rp 450 million from her employer's bank account. The suspect, who was entrusted with the ATM card and PIN for daily expenses, is accused of making unauthorised withdrawals over a period of time. The stolen funds were reportedly used to purchase a car, motorcycle, and jewellery, with a portion sent to her hometown in East Java.

Pramono Targets Completion of Manggarai-Dukuh Atas LRT by 2028

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has set a 2028 deadline for the completion of the LRT Jakarta Phase 1C line connecting Manggarai to Dukuh Atas. The 2.1-kilometre extension, budgeted at Rp2.7 trillion from the regional budget, aims to integrate the capital's rail network. Once operational, the route is expected to significantly reduce travel times, allowing commuters to connect seamlessly from the MRT to the LRT.

Regent of West Lampung Emphasises Innovation to Boost Appeal of Coffee School

The Regent of West Lampung, Parosil Mabsus, has called for continuous innovation at the region's 'Sekolah Kopi' (Coffee School) to enhance its appeal as an educational tourism destination. He stressed that the facility should not only serve as a learning centre but also as a showcase for the area's robusta coffee potential to attract more visitors. The initiative aims to strengthen the promotion of local coffee and deliver a positive economic impact on the community.

KPK Investigates Alleged Rp100 Million Payment to Gus Miftah

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is probing an alleged payment of Rp100 million to preacher Gus Miftah, which surfaced during a trial concerning corruption at the Directorate General of Railways. The anti-graft body will analyse the motive and source of the funds to determine if they are linked to the ongoing railway graft case. The investigation is part of a wider probe that has already named 22 suspects, including a former lawmaker.

Freeport Projects State Revenue Contribution of USD 4.7 Billion for Indonesia in 2027

PT Freeport Indonesia anticipates its contribution to state revenues will rise to USD 4.7 billion in 2027, driven by a recovery in production capacity. This follows a projected decline to USD 2.6 billion in 2026 after a landslide halted operations at the Grasberg Block Cave underground mine in September 2025. Full production capacity is expected to be restored by the second half of 2027.

S&P Assessment Dismantles Moody's and Fitch's Views, Says Purbaya: The Highest Standard

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sdewa has stated that S&P's decision to maintain Indonesia's credit rating and stable outlook refutes the negative sentiments expressed by other agencies like Moody's and Fitch. He emphasised that the rating confirms the government's prudent and well-directed fiscal management. Purbaya highlighted S&P's high standards and apolitical approach, contrasting it with what he called inaccurate accusations of fiscal mismanagement.

Traffic Gridlock in Kuningan Towards Tendean, South Jakarta, Due to Dismantling of Footbridge Hit by Truck

Traffic congestion has paralysed the Kuningan area of South Jakarta following the dismantling of a pedestrian footbridge (JPO) on Jalan Kapten Tendean. The bridge was struck and nearly collapsed by a heavy equipment transporter truck early this morning. The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government has closed the road temporarily to carry out the demolition, causing long tailbacks.

Ex-Revolutionary Guard Commander Claims Iran Can Kill Trump Inside the White House

A former senior commander of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has claimed that Tehran could easily assassinate President Donald Trump, even within the White House. Hossein Kanani Moghaddam also stated that ongoing negotiations with Washington are not aimed at achieving peace but at reducing tensions and restoring Iran's rights. The threats follow Trump's own warning last week that the US would 'obliterate' Iran if it attempted to kill him.

Bapperida Sidrap Strengthens Six Health Service Innovations at Barukku Community Health Centre

The Regional Development Planning, Research, and Innovation Agency (Bapperida) of Sidenreng Rappang has provided intensive mentoring to Barukku Community Health Centre to bolster six key service innovations. The initiative aims to ensure these programmes meet regional innovation assessment indicators through improved administration and measurable impact. This effort is part of a broader commitment to enhance public health service quality and responsiveness in the Pitu Riase District.

Modus Operandi of Ponjong Resident Iwan, a Sexual Harassment Fugitive, Revealed

Police have disclosed the modus operandi of Iwan Ade Saputro, a 33-year-old man from Gunungkidul now on the wanted list for sexual harassment. The suspect allegedly assaulted a victim under the pretence of conducting a job interview and searching her belongings. Authorities have urged the public to report any information regarding his whereabouts.

KuCoin Web3 Wallet Adds Support for Robinhood Chain, Expanding Access to Tokenised Real-World Asset Ecosystem

KuCoin Web3 Wallet has integrated support for Robinhood Chain, broadening access to on-chain finance and tokenised real-world assets (RWAs). The move allows users to manage tokenised equities, ETFs, and other traditional financial instruments directly within a non-custodial wallet. This integration positions the wallet as a unified gateway for users exploring the convergence of cryptocurrency and conventional finance.

Mother of Burned Islamic Boarding School Student Begs Prabowo for Justice, Alleges Police and Ministry Cover-Up

The mother of Sahril Sobirin, a student from Lombok who died after being set on fire, has tearfully appealed to President Prabowo Subianto to intervene in her son's case. Speaking through a legal representative at a hearing with the Indonesian parliament, she alleged that the perpetrator is the child of the boarding school's owner and that local police and Ministry of Religious Affairs officials attempted to force a settlement. The family claims they were ostracised after refusing to sign a peace agreement, leaving them with nowhere else to turn for justice.

Rupiah Closes Stronger as US Dollar Dips Slightly to Rp18,080

The Indonesian rupiah strengthened against the US dollar on Tuesday, closing at Rp18,080 after S&P Global Ratings affirmed the country's sovereign credit rating at BBB with a stable outlook. The decision reinforces Indonesia's investment-grade status amid global economic uncertainty. Bank Indonesia welcomed the affirmation, stating it reflects strong international confidence in the nation's macroeconomic stability and solid growth prospects.

Indonesia Secures Rp539 Billion Japanese Investment to Build Plasma-Derived Medicine Ecosystem

The Indonesian government has partnered with Japanese biopharmaceutical firm Takeda, which is injecting USD30 million (Rp539 billion) to develop a domestic plasma-derived medicinal products ecosystem. The collaboration aims to establish the first end-to-end plasma fractionation ecosystem in Southeast Asia, with bank operations targeted for 2027. Officials state the initiative will enhance national health resilience, create high-skilled jobs, and position Indonesia as a regional hub for health innovation.

Pangkajene Health Centre Introduces Seven Community-Based Innovations to Improve Services

The Pangkajene Community Health Centre in Sidenreng Rappang Regency has registered seven new service innovations with the local development planning agency. These initiatives, created by health workers, aim to address community health issues and enhance the accessibility and effectiveness of care. The head of the centre expressed hope that the programmes will be sustained and contribute to improving the region's Innovation Index.

Why Trump 'Eats His Own Words' on 20% Strait of Hormuz Fee

US President Donald Trump has declared the US will take control of the Strait of Hormuz and impose a 20% fee on cargo, a move critics call a reversal of Washington's earlier stance. The proposal has drawn sharp opposition from Iran, which claims sovereignty over the strategic waterway, and scepticism from international maritime bodies and industry experts who question its legality and feasibility.

Brazilian President Slams Trump's Proposed Strait of Hormuz Tariff as 'Piracy'

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has condemned a proposal by US President Donald Trump to impose a 20 per cent transit fee on the Strait of Hormuz, labelling the plan an act of 'piracy'. Lula argued that the United States, historically a combatant of piracy, should not become a pirate state itself. He further warned that such US-driven conflicts have severe economic repercussions for uninvolved nations, driving up global commodity prices.

MP Reveals Gruelling Journey to Graduate from Open University

An Indonesian MP has detailed his arduous five-year struggle to complete a Master's degree at Universitas Terbuka, dispelling perceptions that the distance-learning institution offers an easy path to graduation. He emphasised that his political status afforded him no shortcuts, as the university's rigorous standards and strict deadlines applied equally to all students. University officials confirmed a 'one fits for all' policy, ensuring no academic dispensations are granted based on a student's position or power.

Theme and Logo for the 65th Scout Day 2026: Meaning and Philosophy

The National Scout Movement (Kwarnas) has unveiled the official theme and logo for the 65th Scout Day, celebrated annually on 14 August. The theme focuses on strengthening the organisation to support national food self-sufficiency as part of the broader vision for a Golden Indonesia 2045. The accompanying logo symbolises a modern, adaptive, and environmentally conscious movement ready to contribute to national development.

Tito Urges Village Chiefs to Uphold Integrity and Master Governance Management

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has called on village chiefs to enhance their integrity and managerial skills to professionally manage village governance. He highlighted that while the Village Law and Village Funds have spurred local economic growth, legal issues stemming from poor governance remain a key challenge. The ministry has partnered with the University of Indonesia to run a programme aimed at strengthening village chiefs' leadership and entrepreneurial capabilities.

Digital Literacy and Healthy Digital Culture Crucial for Young Generation

MPR Deputy Speaker Lestari Moerdijat has stressed the urgent need to integrate digital literacy into family, school, and community life to build a healthy digital culture. Her remarks follow a new Ministry of Education circular restricting gadget use in schools for the 2026 academic year. She warned that without active parental and societal involvement, regulations alone cannot protect children from online threats like addiction and cyberbullying.

Celebrating 9 Years in Indonesia, Wuling Introduces New Electric Car

Wuling Indonesia has unveiled its latest urban electric vehicle, the Aira EV, marking nine years of operations in the country. The four-door model boasts a range of up to 300 kilometres and will be officially launched at the GIIAS 2026 motor show. The company also reported cumulative local production exceeding 200,000 units, with some exported globally.

OJK: Cyber Risk and AI Misuse Are Key Corporate Governance Challenges

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has identified cyber risk and the misuse of artificial intelligence as the primary challenges to corporate governance amid rising global uncertainty. The regulator highlighted that anomalous transactions in the financial sector remain significant, requiring integrated oversight and strong accountability. The government also emphasised that good governance is a crucial foundation for economic resilience and sustainable growth.

Indonesia and Vietnam Target Trade Value of Rp325 Trillion by 2028

Indonesia and Vietnam have formalised a plan to boost bilateral trade to US$18 billion by 2028, with both foreign ministers expressing confidence the target may be exceeded. The agreement, signed during the 6th Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation in Jakarta, also covers investment, maritime security, and supply chain cooperation. Current trade performance suggests the goal could be reached ahead of schedule.

Tanrutedong Health Centre Launches Five Innovations to Improve Service Quality

The Tanrutedong Community Health Centre (Puskesmas) in Sidenreng Rappang Regency has introduced five new initiatives aimed at enhancing healthcare delivery and administrative efficiency. The innovations, developed by the centre's own health workers, focus on hypertension management, paediatric dental education, medication safety, patient data verification, and digital archiving. The head of the health centre expressed hope that these programmes would serve as a model for other facilities across the region.

Nurul Arifin Demands Maximum Penalty for 27 Suspects in Sampang Gang Rape of 15-Year-Old

Lawmaker Nurul Arifin has called for the maximum legal penalty for all 27 suspects in the alleged gang rape of a 15-year-old girl in Sampang, East Java, describing the case as a humanitarian tragedy. She stressed that the state must provide comprehensive protection for the victim, including psychological support and educational guarantees, while ensuring all perpetrators face justice. Arifin also highlighted the case as a serious alarm about the erosion of social controls and the urgent need to strengthen character education and consent awareness from an early age.

KPK to Reveal Money Trail in Hajj Quota Corruption Case Involving Ex-Minister Yaqut at Trial

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has stated it will fully disclose the alleged flow of funds to former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas during the upcoming trial for the 2023-2024 hajj quota corruption case. The anti-graft body asserts that both the material and formal aspects of the case have been satisfied, a stance reinforced by the rejection of Yaqut's pre-trial motion. The case file has been transferred to prosecutors, paving the way for the trial of Yaqut and three other suspects.

Hotspots Surge 205%, Forestry Ministry Strengthens Mitigation Against El Niño Threat

The Indonesian Ministry of Forestry is intensifying fire prevention measures after satellite data revealed a 205% increase in hotspots compared to the same period last year. With 1,007 hotspots detected by mid-June 2026 and over 81,000 hectares already burned, the government is deploying ground operations and weather modification technology. The looming El Niño phenomenon is expected to exacerbate the risk of forest and land fires, particularly in vulnerable peatland areas.

Bandung Prosecutor's Office Uncovers Modus Operandi in Rp1.5 Billion Grant Fund Corruption

The Bandung District Prosecutor's Office has revealed a fictitious grant scheme involving a West Java foundation. Investigators found that the Yayasan Anwarurohman Bandung Barat did not use the Rp1.5 billion provincial government grant for any of the educational activities listed in its proposal. The foundation has been found to lack any actual school buildings, teachers, or students, resulting in a total state loss equivalent to the full grant amount.

Jambi DPRD Highlights Rampant Illegal Gold Mining in Six Regencies

The Jambi Provincial Legislative Council (DPRD) has urged law enforcement to intensify action against illegal gold mining (PETI) operations still widespread across six regencies. The activity is blamed for significant environmental damage, including the pollution of the Batanghari River and the destruction of over 12,000 hectares of forest. Officials are calling for both strict legal enforcement and long-term regulatory solutions for communities dependent on small-scale mining.

Bulog North Sumatra Boosts SPHP Rice Distribution to Anticipate Price Hikes

State logistics agency Bulog has increased its daily distribution of SPHP rice in North Sumatra from 200 to 350 tonnes to stabilise market prices. The move comes as unhusked rice prices at the farm level have climbed to around Rp7,500 per kilogramme ahead of the main harvest season. Bulog assures the public that regional stocks of 51,000 tonnes are sufficient for approximately eight months.

Freeport Targets Full Production Recovery by End of 2027

PT Freeport Indonesia aims to restore its production capacity to 100 per cent by late 2027 following a landslide at the Grasberg Block Cave mine. The recovery plan involves repairing the affected area and resuming concentrate shipments to the Gresik smelter by September 2026. The company also outlined long-term production targets, including the development of the Kucing Liar mine to sustain output.

Gus Miftah Allegedly Received Rp100 Million in DJKA Ministry of Transportation Corruption Case

Popular preacher Gus Miftah has been named in court proceedings related to a corruption case within the Directorate General of Railways at the Ministry of Transportation. A witness testified that Miftah received Rp100 million originating from the Solo-Semarang double track project. The allegation emerged during the trial of former MP Sudewo at the Semarang Corruption Court.

Deputy Minister P2MI Sends Off Migrant Workers to Korea, Germany, Urges Them to Uphold National Reputation

Deputy Minister for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (P2MI) Christina Aryani has dispatched 203 prospective migrant workers to South Korea and Germany under a government-to-government scheme. She urged them to work professionally and maintain discipline to safeguard Indonesia's reputation abroad. The workers, comprising manufacturing, fisheries, and healthcare personnel, were reminded to use their earnings wisely and to seek consular assistance if needed.

Traffic Congestion Points This Afternoon Due to Dismantling of Tendean Footbridge in South Jakarta Hit by Truck

The dismantling of a pedestrian bridge on Jalan Kapten Tendean in South Jakarta, which was struck by a truck, is causing significant traffic congestion in the surrounding area. Police have implemented traffic diversions as welding and demolition work continues, affecting major routes including Jalan Suryo and Jalan Senopati. The bridge was rendered unusable after a heavy equipment transport truck failed to clear its height restriction early this morning.

Tasikmalaya Regency Declares Drought and Forest Fire Emergency

The Tasikmalaya Regency government has declared a state of emergency for drought and forest fires lasting until 30 September 2026, following three months without rain. The decision, prompted by a drier-than-usual dry season forecast, aims to expedite mitigation efforts and minimise the impact of water shortages and potential crop failures across all 39 districts.

Scorching Heat Hits Indonesia, UGM Expert Reveals Dire Health Impacts

A public health expert from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has warned that the extreme heat currently affecting Indonesia poses a serious threat to public health, significantly increasing the risk of heat stroke. Even a small rise in average temperatures can lead to a surge in healthcare visits, with research showing a 1°C increase correlates with a 15.5% rise in maternal and child health consultations. The expert calls for a national early warning system and multi-sectoral policies to address the growing health burden.