Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 July 2026

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KPK Completes Investigation into Former Minister Yaqut and Three Others in Hajj Quota Corruption Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has completed its investigation into a corruption case involving the 2023-2024 additional hajj quota, transferring the case files and four suspects to the prosecution stage. The suspects include former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, his former special staff member, and two private sector individuals. The case, which allegedly caused state losses of IDR 622 billion, will now proceed to trial at the Corruption Court.

IHSG Strengthens as S&P Maintains Stable Outlook for Indonesia's Debt

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) Composite index strengthened past the 6,000 psychological level following S&P Global Ratings' affirmation of the country's stable sovereign credit outlook. The positive domestic sentiment was tempered by continued foreign net selling of approximately Rp 412 billion, driven by global geopolitical tensions and rupiah depreciation.

Indonesian University Provides Digital Literacy Education to Children of Migrant Workers in Malaysia

Universitas Jenderal Achmad Yani (Unjani) has conducted a digital literacy programme for the children of Indonesian migrant workers in Malaysia. The initiative, held in collaboration with the Indonesian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, aims to equip children with skills to use technology wisely, safely, and productively. The programme is part of the university's commitment to extending its community service mission internationally.

Police Find Four Bullets in Pistol in Case of Canadian National's Death in Jimbaran

Bali police are investigating a firearm found with the body of a Canadian national who died from a gunshot wound in Jimbaran. The pistol's magazine contained four live rounds. Authorities are tracing the weapon's origin and have questioned five witnesses, while the victim's friend reported prior suicide attempts and suspected paranoia.

Ministry of Environment urges Papua regional governments to accelerate climate change policy implementation

Indonesia's Ministry of Environment has called on regional governments in Papua to speed up the implementation of climate change control policies and the utilisation of Carbon Economic Value. The ministry highlighted Papua's critical role in meeting national emission reduction targets due to its vast forests, mangroves, and coastal ecosystems. A dissemination event was recently held in Sorong to strengthen coordination between national directives and local action.

Police confirm tiger attack video in Garut is hoax

Police in Garut, West Java, have confirmed that a viral video claiming a tiger attacked three residents near Mount Papandayan is a hoax. The footage actually depicts victims of an unrelated explosion in West Bandung Regency. Authorities are urging the public not to share unverified information that could cause panic.

Dieng's Icy Dew Phenomenon Boosts Tourist Numbers

The seasonal 'embun upas' (frozen dew) phenomenon in the Dieng Plateau, Central Java, is attracting a significant surge in visitors during the school holiday period. Local tourism authorities report that the rare natural spectacle, which occurs when temperatures drop below freezing, has driven a sharp increase in monthly tourist arrivals, with over 67,000 visitors recorded in the first nine days of July 2026 alone. Officials hope the cold weather will persist through the upcoming Dieng Culture Festival in August to further boost visitor numbers.

Without Raising Tax and Excise Rates, Here's How Purbaya Plans to Boost Revenue

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has outlined a strategy to expand the tax base without increasing rates, targeting the digital and shadow economies to address a revenue shortfall. The plan relies on enhanced data utilisation and technology, alongside stricter customs enforcement and digitalisation. Purbaya also warned of potential staff suspensions and system improvements to ensure tax collection targets are met.

National Gold Bank Accumulates 153 Tonnes of Gold Since Launch

Indonesia's national bullion ecosystem has accumulated 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 strengthen economic resilience. The government is also expanding local currency transactions and preparing substantial credit programmes to support productive sectors.

DPR Accelerates Manpower Bill Deliberations During Recess

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) is fast-tracking the deliberation of the Manpower Bill during the recess period to meet a Constitutional Court deadline. The court ordered the separation of manpower laws from the controversial Job Creation Law by 2026. Parliamentary leaders have urged active participation from labour unions to ensure the resulting legislation is comprehensive and legally robust.

Indonesia and Saudi Arabia Expand Transport Sector Cooperation, Discuss Logistics and Aviation

Indonesia and Saudi Arabia have pledged to broaden their transport sector collaboration, encompassing aviation, maritime, and railway safety investigations. The agreement follows bilateral discussions and aims to enhance air connectivity, including expanding operational points to Yogyakarta and Banda Aceh. Both nations are also focused on ensuring fair opportunities for their respective airlines amid rising travel demand.

IMF, ADB, and S&P Maintain Optimism on Indonesia's Economic Resilience

The Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs has highlighted that international institutions remain confident in Indonesia's economic stability. The IMF projects 5% growth for 2026, while the ADB is even more optimistic with a 5.2% forecast. S&P Global Ratings has also maintained Indonesia's sovereign rating at BBB with a stable outlook, reinforcing the country's investment-grade status amid global uncertainty.

DPR Commission VII Urges Stronger MSME Mentoring to Gain Bank Trust

The House of Representatives Commission VII has called on the Ministry of MSMEs to intensify training and mentoring programmes so that small businesses can become 'bankable'. Many viable businesses are reportedly denied bank credit due to lack of collateral, financial reports, or complete legal documentation, forcing them towards loan sharks and high-interest online loans.

GAPKI Strengthens Indonesian Palm Oil Exports to Russia with Strategic MoU Signing

The Indonesian Palm Oil Association (GAPKI) has signed a strategic MoU with Russian and Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) fat and oil industry bodies to bolster trade ties. The agreement aims to expand market access for Indonesian palm oil in the EAEU region, capitalising on a recently signed free trade agreement. This move is part of a broader strategy to diversify export markets amid tightening regulations in traditional destinations like the European Union.

At-Thohir Mosque and Km 88 Rest Area Become Pilot Projects for International Muslim-Friendly Tourism

The West Java provincial government has designated the At-Thohir Mosque and the Km 88 toll road rest area in Depok as pilot projects for developing tourism infrastructure that meets international Muslim-friendly standards. The initiative aims to leverage the province's predominantly Muslim population to attract global travellers, particularly from Malaysia, Singapore, and the Middle East. The programme includes standardising worship facilities, curating halal culinary offerings, and integrating digital services at religious sites.

National Police Traffic Corps Steps In to Investigate Fatal Indramayu Crash

The National Police Traffic Corps (Korlantas Polri) has deployed a specialised team to assist in the investigation of a fatal accident on the Pantura route in Indramayu, West Java, which claimed 13 lives. Preliminary findings indicate the absence of brake marks from the two trucks involved and that the U-turn location used by the victim's vehicle was an unofficial access point. Authorities are coordinating with local agencies to evaluate road safety infrastructure and prevent future tragedies.

Productive Debt vs Consumptive Debt: What's the Difference?

Not all debt is a burden; 'productive debt' refers to borrowing that generates future income or increases asset value, distinguishing it from consumptive debt used for depreciating items. The key factor is the purpose of the funds, with productive debt aimed at creating economic value that exceeds the cost of borrowing. While it can accelerate financial growth, it carries risks such as business failure and cash flow disruption, requiring careful planning and a clear source of repayment.

FBI and US Secret Service Examine Seized Cash in Febrie Adriansyah Case

The FBI and US Secret Service are assisting Indonesian police in examining foreign currency seized in three corruption cases involving former senior prosecutor Febrie Adriansyah. The seized assets, which include US and Singapore dollars as well as gold bars, were found during raids on multiple properties and total hundreds of billions of rupiah. Meanwhile, the House of Representatives Commission III has pledged to supervise the legal process to ensure it targets individuals rather than institutions.

The Strategy of Subandi, a Bantul Wayang Artisan, to Teach Children the Art of Tatah Sungging

Subandi Giyanto, a 68-year-old wayang kulit artisan from Bantul, is personally funding classes to teach children the traditional art of leather puppetry, known as tatah sungging, to combat a sharp decline in practitioners. The number of artisans in his village, Gendeng, has plummeted from around 340 in the 1990s to just 30 today due to economic crises, earthquakes, and the pandemic. By offering free weekly lessons and a small stipend, Subandi hopes to preserve this cultural heritage and create future opportunities for the younger generation.

KPK Has Not Closed the Door on Supervising Former Jampidsus Febrie's Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has indicated it remains open to supervising the case of former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Ardiansyah, despite the case file having been transferred from the police to the Attorney General's Office. The commission cites its legal mandate under Law Number 19 of 2019, which allows for coordination and supervision of corruption cases handled by other law enforcement agencies. KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo noted that such supervisory measures are common when other agencies face obstacles or require support.

Customs and Police Thwart Drug Smuggling Worth Rp 25.6 Billion

A joint operation by Indonesian Customs and the National Police's Criminal Investigation Department has intercepted a major drug shipment from Malaysia in Bengkalis, Riau. The seizure, valued at Rp 25.6 billion, included over 10 kilograms of methamphetamine and other narcotics, leading to the arrest of a 28-year-old suspect. Authorities estimate the operation saved over 61,000 lives and prevented Rp 54.4 billion in potential rehabilitation costs.

Pertamina's 'Unconventional' Oil Field Could Produce 40,000 Barrels Per Day

PT Pertamina Hulu Rokan projects its unconventional oil and gas development in the Rokan Block, Riau, could reach peak production of 40,000 to 50,000 barrels per day. The initiative targets the Gulamo and Kelok reservoirs, which hold an estimated 740 million barrels of oil equivalent in 2C resources. This marks Indonesia's first development of unconventional resources, requiring advanced multi-stage fracturing technology to extract oil trapped in tight rock formations.

TransNusa Connects Two World Class Holiday Destinations with the Launch of New Bali-Phuket Scheduled Flights

Indonesian airline TransNusa has launched a new direct scheduled flight between Bali and Phuket, aiming to boost tourism and strengthen economic ties between Indonesia and Thailand. The four-times-weekly service, operated with an Airbus A320, is part of the carrier's strategy to solidify Bali as an international hub, with tickets starting from USD167.60. This expansion follows the recent announcement of a Jakarta-Bangkok route and signals TransNusa's aggressive growth in the regional aviation market.

Japanese Biopharma Firm Takeda to Invest Rp 539 Billion in Indonesia

Japanese biopharmaceutical company Takeda is investing US$30 million to develop a plasma-derived product ecosystem in Indonesia. The initial two-year phase will focus on building a plasma bank network, laying the foundation for a national plasma industry. The government views this as a strategic investment that will facilitate technology transfer and strengthen Indonesia's position in the global health supply chain.

Fishermen with 30-200 GT Vessels to Enjoy IDR 15,000 per Litre Fuel, Here's the Scheme

The Indonesian government has announced a special fuel price of IDR 15,000 per litre for fishermen operating vessels between 30 and 200 gross tonnage. The policy, ordered by President Prabowo Subianto, aims to reduce operational costs for businesses currently paying non-subsidised rates of around IDR 21,300 per litre. The price gap will be covered by the Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP) rather than the state budget.

Antam Partners with Bank Muamalat to Strengthen Precious Metals Distribution

State-owned mining company PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) has entered a strategic partnership with Bank Muamalat to distribute its precious metals through a wholesaler scheme. The collaboration aims to expand public access to gold investment via sharia-compliant financing and strengthen the national gold ecosystem. The deal leverages Bank Muamalat's branch network and digital channels, alongside joint marketing and investment literacy programmes.

Child Protection in Islamic Boarding Schools Must Be Strengthened After Santri Burning in Lombok

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called for a systemic overhaul of child protection in Islamic boarding schools following the death of a student in Lombok. Atalia Praratya of Commission VIII stressed that legal action alone is insufficient and urged the creation of a national care standard with safe reporting mechanisms. She also advocated for expanding child-friendly school programmes to religious educational institutions to prevent future violence.

Purbaya Explains to DPR the Purpose of Placing State Funds in State-Owned Banks

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has explained to the House of Representatives (DPR) that the placement of idle state funds, known as the Budget Financing Surplus (SAL), into state-owned banks (Himbara) is intended to boost credit growth and support the real sector. The policy aims to lower the cost of funds for banks by providing low-interest government deposits, thereby encouraging lending. The government recently returned Rp 110 trillion to Himbara, restoring the total placement to Rp 281 trillion, in response to banks' need for liquidity to meet rising credit demand.

Garuda Indonesia Strengthens Service Transformation with Piece-based Checked Baggage Policy

Garuda Indonesia is modernising its checked baggage policy by adopting the Piece Concept, effective for tickets issued from 1 September 2026. The new system offers passengers greater clarity and increased allowances, with some travellers receiving up to 64 kilograms across two pieces depending on route and class. The flag carrier states the change supports its broader service transformation and aligns with global aviation standards.

Bomb Threat Maker Targeting South Jakarta Primary School Named Suspect

A 34-year-old man has been named a suspect for sending a bomb threat to a primary school in Jagakarsa, South Jakarta, on the first day of the new academic year. Police stated the man, identified by the initials MY, claimed he acted out of mischief, though investigations are continuing. The threat prompted a four-hour security sweep by the bomb squad and counter-terrorism units before the area was declared safe.

DPR Accelerates Deliberation of Manpower Bill

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) is fast-tracking the deliberation of the new Manpower Bill, aiming for its enactment by the end of the year. This legislative push follows a Constitutional Court order to separate the manpower law from the controversial Job Creation Law. The DPR has pledged to involve trade unions actively in the drafting process to ensure the resulting legislation is comprehensive and legally sound.

South Jakarta City Government Ensures MPLS is Safe and Free from Bullying

The South Jakarta City Government has committed to ensuring the new school year's orientation period (MPLS) is safe, positive, and free from bullying, violence, and discrimination. Mayor Syafrin Liputo emphasised that the programme should transform students' anxiety into enthusiasm and support Jakarta's vision of becoming a competitive global city. The initiative aligns with broader efforts to build character and a comfortable learning environment for all new students.

Landak and Ketapang Industrial Estates Gain PSN Status, but Pontianak-Singkawang Toll Road Left Out

Two industrial estates in West Kalimantan have been granted national strategic project status, paving the way for accelerated investment in agro-industry. However, the Pontianak-Singkawang toll road, considered vital for connecting these estates to Kijing Port, has been excluded from the government's priority toll road list. The contrasting decisions, both stemming from the same ministerial regulation, highlight a sectoral approach to national priority setting that may create logistical challenges.

Bomb Threat Sender at South Jakarta Primary School Named as Suspect

Police have arrested and named a 34-year-old man, identified as MY, as a suspect for sending a bomb threat to a state primary school in Jagakarsa, South Jakarta. The suspect, who is a parent of a pupil at the school, claimed the threat was a prank. He faces charges under Article 601 of the Criminal Code, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years or life imprisonment.

Minister Clarifies Pesantren and Kiai Definitions and Standards

The Ministry of Religious Affairs plans to tighten the definitions and standards for Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) and their leaders (kiai) to strengthen the prevention of violence in religious education. Minister Nasaruddin Umar stated that clear criteria are needed to ensure institutions have proper governance and can protect students. The ministry will also maximise the role of the Majelis Masyayikh to improve quality assurance and comprehensive regulation.

After SD Srengseng bomb hoax, Minister ensures school orientation runs safely

Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Abdul Mu'ti has confirmed that the school orientation period (MPLS) across Indonesia is proceeding safely following a bomb hoax at a South Jakarta primary school. Police investigations found the threat to be a prank with no real danger, and the perpetrator has been identified. The minister visited the school to reassure students and staff, emphasising the government's commitment to a welcoming and secure learning environment.

DPR Proposes National Standard for Childcare in Pesantren

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has proposed a national standard for childcare in Islamic boarding schools following a fatal case of alleged violence against three students in Lombok. The initiative aims to strengthen child protection through improved supervision, safe complaint mechanisms, and regular evaluations of care practices. The legislator stressed that the majority of pesantren operate well, but firm action is needed to maintain public trust.

Pullman Jakarta Central Park Secures Green Globe Certification for Third Consecutive Year

Pullman Jakarta Central Park has renewed its Green Globe Certification for the third year in a row, reinforcing its position as a leader in sustainable hospitality. The hotel integrates environmental, social, and economic sustainability into its operations, including high-tech MICE facilities and community partnerships. This achievement sets a new benchmark for the tourism industry in Indonesia and internationally.

Video: S&P and MSCI in Focus, Can IHSG and Rupiah Continue to Strengthen?

S&P Global Ratings has affirmed Indonesia's sovereign credit rating at BBB with a stable outlook, a move seen as a positive signal that could bolster global investor confidence and attract capital back into the country's financial markets. The assessment is expected to make government debt spending more efficient through more competitive interest rates, though the stock market still faces pressure over data transparency issues. Market participants are also closely watching the MSCI review for further catalysts.

Chinese Crew Member Dies En Route to Australia, Evacuated in Benoa

A 47-year-old Chinese crew member, Zhang Wenli, died aboard the MV Shandong De Yu while sailing from China to Australia. The Denpasar Search and Rescue team evacuated the body from the Badung Strait to Benoa Port. The victim reportedly suffered from health complications and shortness of breath before passing away.

Jakarta's First and Largest Wellness Garden: A Look at BRI Wellness Experience 2026 Promotions

State-owned Bank BRI is set to host the BRI Wellness Experience 2026, a premium wellness festival in Jakarta's Hutan Kota, from 16 to 19 July 2026. The event, part of the Plataran Xtravaganza, will feature fitness activities, mindfulness sessions, and health talks, alongside exclusive promotions for BRImo, debit, and credit card users. The initiative reflects a growing trend towards holistic health, combining physical activity with mental well-being and community engagement.

Free Nutritious Meal Programme Resumes After School Holidays, BGN Conducts Spot Checks

Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme has resumed distribution following the school holiday break. The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) carried out unannounced inspections at schools and service units in Jakarta to ensure smooth operations and quality standards. The agency used the holiday period to improve governance and operational procedures for the programme.

Jakarta to Extend LRT to Dukuh Atas, Targeting 2028 Completion

The Jakarta provincial government is set to proceed with the extension of the Light Rail Transit (LRT) line from Manggarai to Dukuh Atas, with Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo targeting completion by 2028. The project, which will be fully funded by the regional budget (APBD) at a cost of Rp2.1 trillion, faces no land acquisition hurdles. The current Velodrome-Manggarai route is 95 per cent complete and is expected to be inaugurated in August, with the Governor hoping President Prabowo Subianto will officiate the milestone project.

Traffic Corps Assists Investigation into Fatal Indramayu Crash

The National Police Traffic Corps is providing scientific and technical assistance to investigate a multi-vehicle collision on the Pantura route in Indramayu that killed three people. Preliminary findings suggest no braking was attempted by the two trucks involved and that the U-turn used was an unofficial access point. A focus group discussion with regional agencies has been initiated to evaluate road safety and regulate turning points along the stretch.

KPK Transfers Yaqut Cholil's Case Files to Prosecutors in Hajj Quota Corruption Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has handed over the case files and evidence for former minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and his co-defendants to public prosecutors, marking the completion of the investigation into the alleged corruption of the 2023โ€“2024 Hajj quota. The case, which involves state losses estimated at Rp622 billion, will now proceed to trial, with prosecutors given 14 days to prepare the indictment. Yaqut and several other individuals, including a former special staff member and travel company executives, have been named suspects and detained at various points during the investigation.

Airlangga Announces Cheap Fuel for Fishermen, Valid for 6 Months

The Indonesian government is introducing a special fuel price of Rp15,000 per litre for fishing vessels between 30 and 200 gross tonnage. The policy, directed by President Prabowo Subianto, aims to reduce operational costs and boost the competitiveness of the national fishing industry. The price gap from the economic rate will be covered by the Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP) without burdening the state budget.

Purbaya Urges SPPG to Empower MSMEs and Local Food Suppliers to Strengthen MBG Supply Chain

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has called on the Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) to involve and empower local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), village-owned enterprises (BUMDes), and regional food suppliers to strengthen the supply chain of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The initiative aims to ensure direct absorption of foodstuffs from local farmers, livestock breeders, and fishermen. The government also highlighted initial logistical challenges, particularly in frontier, outermost, and disadvantaged (3T) regions, and will conduct bimonthly evaluations of the programme's budget implementation.

Egg-free school meals scramble politics in India

The removal of eggs from school lunches in West Bengal has ignited a political clash, with critics accusing the Hindu nationalist state government of imposing vegetarianism. The decision to replace eggs with plant-based alternatives provided by a religious charity has raised concerns among teachers and health advocates about child nutrition and school attendance. The controversy has now reached the High Court, which has asked the government to clarify its position on the new meal arrangement.

Truck Driver Who Hit Tendean Pedestrian Bridge Claims He Was Focused on Phone Maps

A truck driver who crashed into a pedestrian bridge in South Jakarta, nearly causing it to collapse, claims he was using his mobile phone to look at maps. The incident occurred early Tuesday morning on Jalan Kapten Tendean, causing severe traffic congestion. The driver stated he was unfamiliar with the route and was transporting heavy equipment to the Attorney General's Office.

Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs: National Bullion Bank Has Accumulated 153 Tonnes of Gold

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