Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 July 2026

Showing 851-900 of 1,599 articles

A Spate of Sexual Harassment Cases on Campus: What Is Going On?

A series of sexual harassment cases has rocked several Indonesian universities over the past month, involving students from the University of Indonesia, Semarang State University, and Brawijaya University, among others. Incidents range from the distribution of explicit images in Telegram groups to verbal harassment, prompting swift sanctions from some institutions and ongoing police investigations. The surge in reported cases highlights a persistent crisis of sexual violence within the country's higher education system.

Lawmaker Urges Government to Establish National Childcare Standards for Pesantren Amid Recurring Violence

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called for the creation of national childcare standards in Islamic boarding schools following a fatal abuse case in Lombok. The proposal aims to prevent future violence through stronger supervision, safe reporting mechanisms, and strict sanctions. The lawmaker emphasised that the majority of pesantren operate well, but firm action is needed to maintain public trust.

AI Won't Wait: Are You Ready to Become a Digital Talent?

The rapid advancement of digital technologies such as AI and cloud computing has created a significant demand for skilled professionals, yet the supply of qualified talent in Indonesia remains insufficient. Higher education institutions like Universitas Nusa Mandiri are adapting by offering accredited Informatics programmes with industry-focused curricula and internship opportunities. The article argues that young Indonesians must view Informatics as a long-term investment to become innovators, not just technology users, in the nation's digital future.

A Look Inside Benny Tjokro's Luxury Apartments Up for Auction, Complete with Private Lifts

The Attorney General's Office is auctioning 90 luxury apartment units in South Jakarta, formerly owned by convicted Jiwasraya and ASABRI corruption case defendant Benny Tjokrosaputro. The units, located in the South Hills complex, feature private lifts and are being sold with varying price limits depending on size and floor level. The online auction, scheduled for 29 July 2026, aims to generate approximately Rp 219 billion in non-tax state revenue.

Bali Deputy Governor Responds to Golkar Queries on Special Economic Zone Reporting

Bali Deputy Governor I Nyoman Giri Prasta confirmed that the provincial government has routinely reported the development of the island's Special Economic Zones (KEK) to the national council. He stressed that while economic advancement is a priority, it must not compromise Balinese customs, religion, traditions, arts, or culture. The government also addressed concerns regarding the allocation of special financial assistance to districts, citing fiscal capacity and priority scales.

Bappenas: Success of Coconut Downstreaming Begins with Upstream Reform

Indonesia's national planning ministry, Bappenas, has stressed that the success of coconut downstreaming hinges on revitalising the upstream sector, particularly through replanting ageing trees and providing certified superior seedlings. With global demand surging, the country faces challenges from old, unproductive plantations and a lack of farmer interest in replanting. The government's 2025โ€“2045 Coconut Downstreaming Roadmap aims to coordinate efforts to boost productivity and secure Indonesia's position as a global coconut industry leader.

Govt sets 15 regions as demographic bonus model area

The Indonesian government has designated 15 regions as model areas for implementing population development strategies to maximise the demographic bonus. The programme focuses on improving human development indicators such as education, life expectancy, and per capita income, with the central government planning to provide incentives to local governments that meet the targets. The Ministry of Population and Family Development acknowledged the challenge of securing financial support and is collaborating with the Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Home Affairs to ensure the programme's success.

AGO to Auction 90 Apartment Units Belonging to Benny Tjokro in South Jakarta

The Attorney General's Office (AGO) is set to auction 90 apartment units in South Jakarta belonging to convicted Jiwasraya and ASABRI corruption case defendant Benny Tjokrosaputro. The online auction, managed by the Asset Recovery Agency, has a total limit value of Rp219.7 billion. Proceeds from the sale will be directed to the state treasury as non-tax revenue.

Tesla's AI5 Chip Ready to Enter Production

Tesla has reportedly completed the tape-out phase for its next-generation AI5 artificial intelligence chip, marking a significant step towards mass production. The chip, to be manufactured by Samsung using a 2-nanometre process, will serve as the computational core for Tesla's advanced driver-assistance and Full Self-Driving systems. This development also lays the groundwork for the future AI6 chip and strengthens Tesla's semiconductor supply chain.

Daughter Allegedly Raped by Father and Uncles, Mother's Statement Draws Scrutiny: 'As Long as She Doesn't Get Pregnant'

A 21-year-old woman in Bekasi, West Java, has reported being repeatedly raped by her biological father and two uncles since the age of 13. The case has drawn public outrage, particularly after the victim's mother allegedly dismissed the abuse by stating it was acceptable as long as her daughter did not become pregnant. Legal aid advocates are now providing assistance and have reported the case to the police.

Minister Yandri: 25 Village Chiefs on China Study Tour Must Inspire Other Villages

Minister of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions Yandri Susanto has urged 25 village chiefs who participated in a study tour to China to implement the best practices they observed. He hopes they will become role models for other Indonesian villages, particularly in areas like green economy self-sufficiency and modern village-owned enterprise management. The minister pledged support for their future proposals to ensure the knowledge gained translates into tangible development and community welfare.

Police Chief, Attorney General, and KPK Chair Attend Launch of KUHAP Annotation Book

Indonesian law enforcement leaders, including the National Police Chief, Attorney General, and KPK Chair, attended the launch of an annotation book for the new Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP) at the parliament complex. The book, initiated by House Commission III, aims to provide official clarification and prevent misinterpretation of the new legislation. Lawmakers stated the annotation serves as a direct reference for the public to understand the lawmakers' intent behind the new code.

Brebes Police Patrol Toll Road Areas to Prevent Land Fires

The Brebes Police in Central Java have launched preventive patrols along toll road areas to mitigate the risk of forest and land fires during the dry season. Officers are focusing on post-harvest rice fields where stubble burning is common, engaging with farmers to discourage the practice. The initiative aims to protect public safety and prevent smoke from reducing visibility for motorists on the Brebes Barat Toll Road.

Welcoming the New School Year, People's Schools in 4 Provinces Built by Nindya Karya Ready for Use

PT Nindya Karya has completed the second phase of construction of 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's Schools) across 20 locations in four Indonesian provinces. The schools are ready to be used for the 2026-2027 academic year, marking a significant step in the government's commitment to equitable access to education. The project includes facilities in remote and underdeveloped regions, aiming to strengthen the nation's human resources.

Husein Airport in Bandung Set to Reopen, Government Assures Kertajati's Future is Secure

The planned reactivation of Bandung's Husein Sastranegara Airport has raised questions about the fate of the newer Kertajati International Airport. The Ministry of Transportation has confirmed that Kertajati's development remains a national strategic priority and will not be abandoned, with both airports operating under a multi-airport system concept to boost regional connectivity and economic growth.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister: 2026 Navy Sports Week Reflects Push for Superior Human Resources

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Akhmad Wiyagus stated that the 2026 Indonesian Navy Sports Week (Poral) demonstrates the Navy's commitment to building superior human resources. He emphasised that physical fitness and a culture of healthy living are central to supporting military professionalism and align with the government's broader focus on public health. Wiyagus expressed hope that the Navy's initiative would inspire healthy lifestyles across Indonesian society, including coastal communities.

Soil Health and the Future of Food Security

As the 2026 dry season arrives early across Java, soil cracking is accelerating due to climate change and declining land quality. Scientists warn that rising temperatures and poor soil management are reducing the ground's capacity to store water, posing a serious threat to rain-fed agriculture. The phenomenon highlights a deeper crisis in soil health that could undermine Indonesia's long-term food security.

Sekolah Rakyat Begins Operations, Expanding Equitable Access to Education

The Sekolah Rakyat programme has commenced its first school term, marked by the start of student orientation across multiple regions. The initiative, which includes facilities from primary to senior high levels, aims to bridge the education gap, particularly in underdeveloped and remote areas. State-owned construction firm PT Nindya Karya confirmed the completion of Phase II projects, ensuring the integrated school complexes are ready for immediate use.

NTB Police Take Over Case of Burned Islamic Students Following House Commission III Hearing

The West Nusa Tenggara Regional Police have assumed control of the investigation into the burning of three Islamic boarding school students in Central Lombok. The takeover follows a recommendation from a hearing with House of Representatives Commission III. The case, which resulted in one fatality, has already seen two suspects named by the local police.

Twibbon Photos of Female Students at Denpasar Vocational School Criticised as Vulgar, Head Teacher Speaks Out

SMK PGRI 5 Denpasar in Bali has launched an internal investigation after twibbon photos of several female students during a school orientation programme were widely criticised online for being too revealing. The head teacher stated that the students involved have been given guidance and instructed to replace the contentious images. The school maintains it had provided clear examples and directions for appropriate, modest attire prior to the activity.

Purbaya assures education budget meets 20 percent state budget mandate

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has reaffirmed the government's commitment to allocating at least 20 percent of the state budget to education, as mandated by the constitution. Although the 2025 realisation fell slightly short at 19.1 percent, the government is targeting to exceed the 20 percent threshold in 2026. The shortfall was attributed to shifts in total state expenditure during the fiscal year, while new large-scale programmes are expected to boost future allocations.

Indonesia and Vietnam Accelerate, US$324 Trillion Trade Target May Be Achieved This Year

Indonesia and Vietnam are optimistic that their bilateral trade target of US$18 billion could be met as early as this year, significantly ahead of the original 2028 deadline. The optimism was voiced during a Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation meeting in Jakarta, where both nations also signed a five-year action plan for their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The agreement aims to strengthen economic ties, remove trade barriers, and expand cooperation into political and security matters.

BRI to Host Largest Premium Wellness Festival in Jakarta

State-owned bank BRI is set to hold its largest premium wellness festival, the BRI Wellness Experience 2026, in Jakarta from 16-19 July. The event, part of the Plataran Xtravaganza, will combine fitness, mindfulness, and education with exclusive promotions for the bank's digital and card customers. It aims to capitalise on the growing public awareness of holistic health by offering a range of activities from hybrid races to wellness talks and exhibitions.

China Refines Tailless J-36 Stealth Jet for Long-Range Penetration, Stirring Indo-Pacific

New imagery of China's J-36 prototype suggests ongoing aerodynamic and air intake refinements, indicating maturation of the unique three-engine, tailless design. The aircraft is believed to be intended for long-range strike missions in contested environments like the Indo-Pacific. The platform's large internal volume points to a significant weapons payload and sensor capacity, though its exact role remains debated among analysts.

40 Illegal Buildings Erected Over Parung Bogor Drainage Demolished

Joint authorities have demolished 40 illegal structures built on top of irrigation channels in Parung, Bogor Regency. The operation aimed to restore the drainage system's function and mitigate flood risks. Officials stated the action supports local government efforts to create a safer and more orderly environment.

Freeport targets Kucing Liar mine to begin operations in 2029

PT Freeport Indonesia has announced that its new Kucing Liar underground mine in Central Papua is now slated to commence production in 2029, following a delay caused by a landslide at the Grasberg Block Cave. The mine is expected to produce over 7 billion pounds of copper and 6 million ounces of gold through to 2041, replacing the declining Deep Mill Level Zone. A recently signed memorandum of understanding also outlines a path for extending Freeport's special mining permit beyond 2041, including a future divestment of an additional 12 percent stake to the Indonesian government.

Education Budget Realisation Still Below 20% of State Budget, Says Finance Minister

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has acknowledged that the realisation of education spending has not yet met the constitutionally mandated 20% of the state budget, reaching 19.1% in 2025. He affirmed the government's commitment to optimising the budget, while lawmakers have criticised the persistent shortfall as a violation of constitutional rights. The government expects the figure to improve in 2026.

Mount Semeru Erupts Seven Times on Tuesday Morning, Ash Column Reaches 1.3 km

Mount Semeru, the highest volcano on Java, experienced seven eruptions on Tuesday morning, with ash columns rising up to 1.3 kilometres above its summit. Authorities have maintained a Level III (Alert) status and imposed strict exclusion zones along the Besuk Kobokan river sector. The public has been warned of potential pyroclastic flows, lava avalanches, and lahars along rivers originating from the peak.

Yulie Sekuritas Increases Stake in EMMI to 8.24%

PT Yulie Sekuritas Indonesia Tbk has significantly increased its shareholding in medical equipment issuer PT Esa Medika Mandiri Tbk (EMMI) from 1.52% to 8.24%. The securities firm made two consecutive purchases in July 2026, acquiring over 117 million shares for investment purposes. Management stated the transaction is a direct investment and they have no intention of becoming the controlling shareholder.

Pramono Allows Naming Rights for 11 LRT Stations on Pegangsaan 2-Manggarai Route

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has approved the sale of naming rights for 11 stations on the new LRT route between Pegangsaan 2 and Manggarai. The policy aims to attract private investment through creative financing to fund public facilities. The Velodrome to Manggarai section is targeted for completion and inauguration by August.

NTB Police Strengthen Professional Collaboration with Prosecutors

The West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Regional Police are reinforcing synergy and professionalism with the High Prosecutor's Office following public scrutiny of legal issues involving senior officials. NTB Police Chief Inspector General Kalingga Rendra Raharja met with High Prosecutor Wahyudi to enhance collaboration within the criminal justice system. Both leaders emphasised the critical importance of a strong working relationship between investigators and prosecutors in handling cases.

UMJ's Education Faculty Hosts 2026 Bina Talenta Indonesia to Forge AI Excellence

The Faculty of Education at Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta is hosting the government's 2026 Bina Talenta Indonesia programme, training 20 top students from across the country in AI, coding, and STEAM. The initiative, backed by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, aims to bolster national competitiveness by equipping young talent with future-ready technological skills. The programme also includes a train-the-trainer component to disseminate knowledge back to the participants' home regions.

Passengers Complain About Unroadworthy Public Minivans in Depok, Urge Crackdown

Commuters in Depok, West Java, have raised safety concerns over the deplorable condition of many public minivans (angkot) still in service, with vehicles missing bumpers, licence plates, and even doors. Passengers are urging the Depok city government to not only remove unroadworthy units but also provide a systemic solution to improve public transport. The local transportation agency has yet to respond to requests for comment.

From National Team Goalkeeper to Officials, Open University Realises Higher Education for All

Universitas Terbuka (UT) has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive higher education, graduating a diverse cohort that includes an Indonesian national futsal goalkeeper and senior government officials. The university's open learning system allows citizens from all backgrounds to pursue qualifications from undergraduate to doctoral levels without age or status barriers. UT has also adopted an Outcome Based Education (OBE) system to ensure graduates' skills remain relevant to societal and industry needs.

Indonesia's Economy Remains Resilient Amid Global Turmoil, Says Finance Minister

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated that Indonesia's economy grew by 5.11 per cent in 2025 despite global fragmentation and geopolitical tensions. The growth was supported by strong household consumption and investment, while inflation remained within the government's target range. The government deployed a Rp 110.7 trillion stimulus package and maintained a prudent fiscal deficit to protect public welfare.

Ship Runs Aground in Pangkalbalam Channel, 253 Passengers of KM Sewindu Evacuated

A vessel ran aground near the entrance to Pangkalbalam Port in Pangkalpinang, blocking the KM Sewindu from docking. All 253 passengers were successfully evacuated by a joint search and rescue team after a three-hour operation. One ill passenger was taken to hospital, and authorities are working to restore normal shipping traffic in the area.

Crane Truck Stuck Under Tendean Pedestrian Bridge Successfully Evacuated

A heavy-lift crane truck that became lodged under the Kapten Tendean pedestrian bridge (JPO) in South Jakarta was successfully removed after a complex 12-hour operation. The incident caused significant structural damage to the bridge and prompted major traffic diversions in the area. Authorities coordinated a multi-agency response involving the police, military, and Jakarta's Bina Marga road agency to safely extract the vehicle and manage the resulting congestion.

China Targets Life Expectancy of 80 Years by 2030

China has approved a plan to raise its average life expectancy to 80 years by 2030, up from 79.25 years in 2025, as part of its 'Healthy China' initiative. The strategy aims to improve equitable access to healthcare, strengthen public health emergency responses, and align the nation's core health indicators with those of high-income economies. Key tasks include building an integrated medical network and fostering new growth engines for the health sector.

Police arrest suspect in murder of online motorcycle taxi driver in Tangerang

Police have arrested a 25-year-old man suspected of murdering and robbing an online motorcycle taxi driver in Tangerang, Banten. The victim was found with a stab wound to the neck and his motorcycle and mobile phone were stolen. The suspect was apprehended at a rented house in North Jakarta following a joint operation by the Jakarta Metropolitan Police.

Senopati Traffic Gridlocked After Truck-Damaged Footbridge Dismantled in Tendean, South Jakarta

Severe traffic congestion paralysed the Senopati area of South Jakarta on Tuesday afternoon following the emergency dismantling of a pedestrian bridge. The footbridge was struck and nearly collapsed after being hit by a heavy equipment truck on Jalan Kapten Tendean in the early hours. The resulting road closures and diversions caused tailbacks stretching from Jalan Gunawarman through to Jalan Wolter Monginsidi.

Bicara Udara Launches Clean Air Policy Competition for University Students Across Indonesia

Bicara Udara has launched the 'Biru Voices: Clean Air Policy Competition' to engage Indonesian university students in developing evidence-based policy recommendations for tackling air pollution. The competition invites students to submit policy briefs on topics ranging from fiscal instruments to public health protection, with registration open until July 24, 2026. The initiative aims to cultivate a new generation of advocates who can translate field findings into actionable and impactful clean air policies.

FBI Steps In: Evidence in Corruption Case Against Febrie Adriansyah Begins Examination

The FBI and US Secret Service have been enlisted to verify foreign currency seized in the corruption and money laundering investigation of former senior prosecutor Febrie Adriansyah. Indonesian police are also working with the US and Singapore embassies and Bank Indonesia to authenticate evidence, including 74 kilograms of gold bars. The case involves the former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes.

Attending Khamenei's Funeral, Muzani Conveys Prabowo's Message to Iranian Government

MPR Speaker Ahmad Muzani attended the funeral of Iran's late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Mashhad, conveying President Prabowo Subianto's condolences and a message of peace. Muzani expressed Indonesia's deep sympathy and hope for a peaceful resolution to Middle East tensions during a meeting with Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. The Indonesian delegation's visit was a direct assignment from President Prabowo.

Inactive Ponorogo Regent Sugiri Sancoko Sentenced to 7 Years in Prison

Inactive Ponorogo Regent Sugiri Sancoko has been sentenced to seven years in prison for corruption involving the buying and selling of positions and hospital project gratuities. The KPK prosecutors also demanded a fine of Rp300 million and restitution of Rp6.7 billion. Two other officials, including the former Ponorogo Regional Secretary and the former hospital director, received prison sentences ranging from over four to five years.

Mount Semeru Eruption Column Reaches 1.3 km Above Peak

Mount Semeru in East Java erupted twice on Tuesday morning, sending ash columns up to 1.3 kilometres above its summit. The volcano remains on Level III alert status, with authorities warning of potential hot clouds and lava flows. Residents are prohibited from activities within a five-kilometre radius of the crater and along key river channels due to lahar and pyroclastic flow risks.

Freeport Indonesia's Copper Ore Production to Remain at 65% in 2026 Due to Landslide

PT Freeport Indonesia projects its mining production capacity will only reach 65% in 2026 as a result of a landslide at its Grasberg Block Cave underground mine in September 2025. The company is prioritising safety during the recovery phase, with daily ore production targeted at 124,000 tonnes, down from 139,000 tonnes before the incident. Full production capacity is not expected to resume until the end of 2027, with a new block scheduled to begin operations in 2029 to sustain long-term output.

Google: Gemini Active Users in Southeast Asia Double in a Year

Google reports that the number of active Gemini users in Southeast Asia has more than doubled over the past twelve months, marking the fastest adoption rate for any Google application in the region. The growth is largely driven by a young, tech-savvy population and the AI's ability to process local languages, with 84 per cent of Indonesian prompts written in the vernacular. The report also highlights a strong preference for mobile access and multimodal inputs such as voice and video.

Ministry of Hajj Pushes for 60% Value-Added Benefit in Hajj Financing, BPKH Awaits DPR Decision

The Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) is awaiting the outcome of parliamentary deliberations on a government proposal to alter the hajj financing structure. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has suggested reversing the current cost-sharing ratio so that 60 per cent of the pilgrimage cost is covered by value-added benefits from managed funds, with pilgrims paying only 40 per cent. Religious figures have cautioned that the scheme must ensure fairness and not disadvantage pilgrims still on the waiting list.

Police Arrest Suspect in Fatal Stabbing of Ride-Hailing Driver in Tangerang

Police have arrested a 25-year-old man suspected of fatally stabbing an online motorcycle taxi driver in Tangerang, Banten. The victim, Agus Tedjo, was found with a neck wound at a rest area frequented by drivers. The suspect allegedly stole the victim's motorcycle and mobile phone before fleeing.

Jakarta Councillor Proposes Tax Exemption for 450-900 VA Electricity Customers

A Jakarta Regional Legislative Council (DPRD) member has proposed exempting households with 450 VA and 900 VA electricity connections from the local electricity tax. The proposal, part of discussions on a new regional tax bylaw, aims to protect low-income residents amid rising living costs. The councillor argues that such fiscal policies should prioritise social justice and safeguard the purchasing power of vulnerable groups.