Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 July 2026

Showing 1,401-1,450 of 1,599 articles

Minister Gives Three Messages to Students During School Orientation

Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Abdul Mu'ti visited SD Srengseng Sawah 15 in Jakarta to motivate students during their school orientation period (MPLS). He delivered three key messages: returning to school with renewed enthusiasm, having aspirations for the future, and practising the 'Seven Habits of Great Indonesian Children'. The Minister also interacted with students and joined them for a meal.

Types of Fishing Vessels Eligible for Special Diesel Price of Rp15,000 per Litre

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed a special diesel fuel price of Rp15,000 per litre for fishing vessel operators with ships between 30 and 200 gross tonnage. The policy, decided during a limited meeting in Hambalang, aims to reduce operational costs and boost national fisheries productivity. The price difference will be funded by the Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP) rather than the state budget.

US-Indonesia MoU Signals New Attempt at Coal Downstreaming, Skepticism Remains

A new memorandum of understanding between US firm Latitude Energy and Indonesia's Danantara fund aims to explore coal gasification using TRIG technology, potentially reducing import dependency and adding value to low-rank coal. However, significant scepticism persists due to the long history of failed downstreaming projects, with economic viability and securing offtakers remaining the primary obstacles. The initiative is seen as Jakarta's latest effort to maximise its vast coal reserves amid structural risks to its export markets.

Brimob Foils Illegal Street Race in Rawamangun, East Jakarta; Four Motorcycles Confiscated

Personnel from the Brimob Pioneer Battalion and East Jakarta Metro Police dispersed an illegal street race on Jalan Pemuda, Rawamangun, in the early hours of Tuesday. Officers confiscated four motorcycles suspected of being used in the activity following a tip-off from the public during a routine patrol. The police emphasised that the operation was part of an ongoing commitment to maintain public order and prevent potential criminal disturbances in the area.

Severe Traffic Paralysis After Truck Strikes Tendean Footbridge, Alternative Routes Advised

A truck transporting a crane struck the pedestrian footbridge (JPO) on Jalan Kapten Tendean in South Jakarta early Tuesday morning, causing severe structural damage and triggering massive traffic congestion during the morning rush hour. Police have implemented traffic diversions and advised motorists to use alternative routes while evacuation efforts continue. The driver is reported to have been distracted by a mobile phone, and the bridge has been completely closed due to safety concerns.

Police Hunt Ponjong Resident Iwan for Sexual Assault

Police in Yogyakarta have named a 33-year-old man from Gunungkidul as a wanted fugitive in connection with a physical sexual assault case. The suspect, Iwan Ade Saputro, a daily labourer from Sawahan, Ponjong, is being sought under Indonesia's sexual violence law. Authorities have released his photograph and are urging the public to report any information on his whereabouts.

West Java Deputy Governor Takes Firm Stance on Handling LGBT Issues

West Java Deputy Governor Erwan Setiawan has announced a firm approach to addressing LGBT issues in the province, including coordinating with regional leadership and enforcing existing laws. He stated that civil servants proven to be LGBT could face dismissal, the most severe administrative sanction, and any criminal aspects would be handed over to law enforcement. The public has also been urged to report any suspected violations to the authorities.

Central Java and Malacca Expand Cooperation in Islamic Boarding School Education Sector

The Central Java Provincial Government and the Malaysian state of Malacca are broadening their sister province partnership to include the Islamic boarding school education sector. The initiative aims to facilitate student and teacher exchanges between pesantren in both regions. Central Java is also boosting human resources in pesantren through a scholarship programme that has attracted nearly a thousand applicants for domestic and international studies.

Rupiah Weakens to Rp 18,115 on Negative Market Reaction to Mega Corruption Scandal

The Indonesian rupiah continued its decline against the US dollar, trading at Rp 18,115, as markets reacted negatively to a major corruption scandal involving a former senior prosecutor. Analysts warned that the resulting damage to legal certainty and the business environment could severely hamper economic growth and investor confidence. The case is seen as a critical test for President Prabowo Subianto's administration.

House Member Urges Hajj Ministry to Tighten Rules to Prevent Violations

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called on the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to implement stricter regulations following the revelation of dozens of violations during the 2026 Hajj season. The legislator stressed that the state must ensure citizens are no longer defrauded and deprived of their opportunity to perform the pilgrimage. The ministry is being urged to shift from a reactive approach to concrete preventive policies and to assist victims in recovering their rights.

Dismantling the Myth of the 'Haunted' School Room: Positioning Guidance Counselling as a Compass for Progressive Education

The persistent stigma of school guidance and counselling (BK) rooms as intimidating 'haunted' spaces for punishment undermines their true purpose of student development. This article argues for a paradigm shift, particularly within Muhammadiyah schools, to rebrand BK as a humanistic and empowering service aligned with the progressive educational vision of KH. Ahmad Dahlan. It calls for structural changes, including freeing counsellors from disciplinary duties and redesigning BK spaces to foster student well-being and career planning.

Rupiah Opens Flat, US Dollar Holds at Rp18,100 Level

The Indonesian rupiah opened unchanged against the US dollar on Tuesday, steadying after S&P Global Ratings affirmed the nation's sovereign credit rating at BBB with a stable outlook. The rating agency's decision reinforces Indonesia's investment-grade status amid global economic uncertainty. Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo stated the affirmation reflects sustained international confidence in the country's macroeconomic stability and solid growth prospects.

Polyworking Trend on the Rise: Youth Lifestyle or Sign of Insufficient Primary Income?

The number of polyworkers in Indonesia is increasing, driven by the digital economy but also reflecting deeper structural shifts in the labour market. An economist notes that while some pursue multiple jobs for career development, the trend also indicates that primary incomes are often insufficient to meet basic living standards. Data shows the phenomenon spans various age groups, not just the younger generation.

Designing Real Solutions for 'Village Pollution' Through the Lens of Manufacturing Engineering

A manufacturing engineering student applied industrial design principles to solve open burning pollution in a Gresik village. The team built a smokeless 'Rocket Stove' using cost-effective refractory materials to achieve complete combustion of household waste. The project demonstrates how simple, grounded engineering can significantly improve rural quality of life and public health.

Truck Collision Destroys Pedestrian Bridge, Paralyses Mampang-Blok M Route on Tuesday Morning

A pedestrian bridge (JPO) on the Mampang-Blok M route in South Jakarta was severely damaged after being struck by a truck transporting a crane in the early hours of Tuesday. The driver was reportedly distracted by a mobile phone, leading to the accident which caused massive traffic congestion during the morning rush hour. Authorities have closed the bridge and are calculating material losses to hold the truck owner accountable.

BGN Ensures Free Nutritious Meal Distribution Resumes Optimally

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has confirmed the resumption of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme following the school holidays, having used the break to refine operations. Deputy Head Arumsari stated that direct monitoring of schools and nutrition service units was conducted to ensure timely delivery and improved service quality. The agency is collecting field feedback to enhance coordination and operational standards, reinforcing its commitment to providing safe, high-quality meals.

Attorney General and National Police Chief Exchange Greetings and Praise

Attorney General ST Burhanuddin and National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo held a meeting to reaffirm the solid relationship between their institutions. Both officials emphasised there is no rivalry and committed to strengthening synergy within the criminal justice system. The meeting also covered plans for joint training programmes for prosecutors and police investigators.

IHSG Opens First Session Up 0.33% to 6,057 Level

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened higher on Tuesday, buoyed by S&P Global Ratings' decision to maintain Indonesia's investment grade rating with a stable outlook. The market's positive start came despite broader regional weakness and lingering concerns over geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. S&P's affirmation provides a crucial vote of confidence in Indonesia's economic fundamentals amid global uncertainty.

IHSG Opens in Green, Poised for Gains; Asian Markets Mixed, Wall Street Sluggish

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened higher on Tuesday, buoyed by S&P's decision to maintain a stable outlook for Indonesia. The positive domestic catalyst contrasted with mixed performance across Asian bourses and a decline on Wall Street, where renewed US-Iran tensions over the Strait of Hormuz stoked inflation fears.

The Wisdom of Islamic Economic and Financial Order Amidst the Challenges of the Times

As digitalisation and global economic volatility reshape society, the Islamic economic and financial system offers an ethical alternative focused on justice and sustainability. While financial literacy in Indonesia has grown, inclusion remains low, highlighting the need to build public trust and understanding. The ultimate goal of this system is not merely growth, but achieving a balance between economic progress, social justice, and moral responsibility.

US Newspaper Reveals Mossad Recruited Ahmadinejad to Become President if Islamic Republic Falls

The New York Times reports that Israel's Mossad intelligence agency secretly recruited former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad as part of a plan to install him as leader should the Tehran government collapse. The operation allegedly involved clandestine meetings in Hungary, Israeli funding for his travel, and an image makeover for the hardline former president. The plot reportedly culminated in an Israeli airstrike on his Tehran residence and his subsequent evacuation by Mossad agents.

Language as a Form of Cultural Diversity

The multilingual society of West Pasaman Regency in West Sumatra demonstrates how language functions beyond mere communication, serving as a symbol of identity and a medium for preserving cultural values. The region's ethnic diversity, shaped by historical migration and transmigration programmes, has fostered a dynamic linguistic environment where code-switching and mutual respect are commonplace. This linguistic harmony highlights the community's ability to use language as a tool for building social solidarity amidst cultural differences.

Laduni Knowledge and Human Intelligence

Amidst rapid technological and intellectual advancement, humanity faces a profound moral and spiritual decline. This article explores the Islamic concept of 'Ilmu Laduni'—divinely granted knowledge—as the essential balance to pure reason. It argues that intelligence without a purified heart and spiritual connection leads to ethical corruption, citing the Quranic story of Moses and Khidir as a foundational example.

OJK Names Suspect in PT BPR Sumber Artha Waru Agung Case

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has named a suspect in a banking crime case at PT BPR Sumber Artha Waru Agung in Sidoarjo, East Java. The former president director is accused of falsifying records and approving irregular credit facilities totalling Rp5.8 billion between 2017 and 2019. The case underscores the regulator's commitment to enforcing compliance and protecting the integrity of the financial sector.

Prabowo Mentions 'Traitorous Leaders', PAN: No Need for Overinterpretation

President Prabowo Subianto has labelled leaders who incite unrest as traitors, drawing a response from the National Mandate Party (PAN). PAN Deputy Chair Saleh Partaonan Daulay interpreted the statement as a call for a calm political atmosphere and urged the public not to read too much into the remarks. The comments were made during a speech where Prabowo stressed that electoral defeat should not lead to calls for destructive actions.

One dead, eight injured in attack on two UAE tankers in Hormuz

An Indian crew member was killed and eight others wounded after two UAE-flagged tankers were struck by Iranian cruise missiles near the Strait of Hormuz. The UAE condemned the attack as a flagrant violation of international law and a serious threat to regional stability. The incident occurred amid heightened military tensions following consecutive US strikes on Iran.

Development of Phytochemical and Health-Based Medicinal Plants

Indonesia's vast biodiversity, encompassing over 9,600 medicinal plant species, presents a strategic resource for developing high-value phytochemical products and bolstering national health resilience. Despite this potential, the sector faces significant challenges from deforestation and limited advanced research, requiring collaboration between academia, industry, and government. Integrating modern biotechnology with traditional knowledge is seen as key to transforming Indonesia into a leading centre for tropical medicinal plant research.

Ahead of 2027 KUA-PPAS Deliberations, Sidkon Djampi Stresses Strengthened Support for Pesantren

West Java DPRD member Sidkon Djampi has called for the provincial government to prioritise pesantren in the upcoming 2027 budget discussions. He emphasised the institutions' strategic role in human resource development and character building. The PKB faction politician urged that budget allocations deliver tangible benefits for improving the quality of religious education and economic empowerment.

Central Java Government Tightens Control Over Paddy Field Conversion

The Central Java provincial government is intensifying efforts to curb the conversion of paddy fields, with nine regencies and cities still working to meet land protection targets. Governor Ahmad Luthfi stressed the importance of preserving agricultural land to maintain the province's status as a national food barn. The administration is also pushing for accelerated waste management, directing larger municipalities towards waste-to-energy schemes.

RSUD Tarakan Prioritises Patient Data Protection in Information Services

Jakarta's RSUD Tarakan hospital is emphasising patient data protection within its public information management, clarifying that such data is legally exempt from public access. The hospital has handled around 1,400 information requests through its designated information officer, balancing transparency with legal confidentiality requirements.

Low Awareness of Waste Segregation: Between Habit and Lack of Education

A university student's community service programme in a Gresik village reveals that low awareness of household waste segregation stems from ingrained habits and insufficient education. Many residents are willing to keep the environment clean but lack information on how to sort waste and its economic benefits. The programme introduced waste banks and composting to shift the community mindset from discarding waste to managing it as a resource.

13 Rapists of Sampang Girl Arrested, 14 Suspects Officially Listed as Wanted

Police in Sampang, East Java, have arrested a 17-year-old suspect, bringing the total number of detainees to 13 in the gang rape of a 15-year-old girl. The assault was allegedly committed by 27 individuals, and authorities have now formally placed the remaining 14 suspects on the wanted list. The police chief appealed for public prayers to aid in the swift capture of the fugitives to ensure a deterrent effect.

Police Question Lorry Driver Who Struck Pedestrian Bridge in Tendean, South Jakarta

Jakarta police are investigating a lorry driver whose vehicle, carrying a drilling excavator, struck and severely damaged a pedestrian bridge (JPO) on Jalan Kapten Tendean in the early hours of Tuesday. The driver is suspected of being distracted by his mobile phone and failing to account for the height of his load. Authorities are coordinating with the Bina Marga agency to evacuate the trapped vehicle and have advised motorists to seek alternative routes due to heavy congestion.

BRI contributes Rp19.1 trillion in first three months of 2026

State-owned lender Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) reported consolidated payments to the state of Rp19.1 trillion in the first quarter of 2026, comprising taxes and dividends. The contribution underscores the bank's strategic role in supporting the national fiscal structure and economic development. BRI's management emphasised that tax compliance is a direct contribution to national progress, aligning with directives from Danantara Indonesia.

IHSG Rebounds, Check Stock Recommendations Worth Considering Today

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) rebounded by 1.92% to 6,037.84, buoyed by gains in major banking and mining stocks despite continued foreign net selling. Positive sentiment was driven by S&P Global Ratings affirming Indonesia's BBB long-term sovereign rating with a stable outlook, projecting 5.10% economic growth in 2026. The article also highlights exploration results from Archi Indonesia and a planned stock split by RMK Energy, alongside technical trading recommendations for several stocks.

BP Rebana Offers Industrial Estate Investment Opportunities to Malaysian Investors

Indonesia's Rebana Area Management Agency (BP Rebana) is courting Malaysian investors for its industrial estates, highlighting West Java's strong export performance of USD 38.45 billion in 2025. Selangor's Group CEO emphasised the strategic partnership potential across sectors including renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, and the digital economy. The collaboration aims to boost regional economic integration and position Selangor as a gateway for Indonesian businesses entering the ASEAN market.

PBNU Demands Thorough Investigation into Sampang Girl Raped by 27 Men: 'Heinous Crime'

The Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU) has strongly condemned the gang rape of a 15-year-old girl in Sampang, East Java, calling it a heinous crime against religion and humanity. PBNU's religious affairs chief urged police to arrest all remaining suspects and provide maximum support for the traumatised victim. Authorities have so far detained 12 of the 27 alleged perpetrators, with the manhunt continuing for the other 15.

NYT reveals alleged Mossad recruitment of Ahmadinejad to topple Iranian regime

The New York Times has reported that Israel's Mossad intelligence agency allegedly recruited former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in a covert operation aimed at overthrowing the government in Tehran. The report claims Ahmadinejad held secret meetings with former Mossad chief David Barnea in Hungary, with Israel financing his travel. Following Israeli airstrikes on his residence in 2026, Ahmadinejad is reportedly under house arrest by Iran's Revolutionary Guard.

BI Governor: S&P Affirmation Reflects Maintained Global Confidence

Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo stated that S&P Global Ratings' affirmation of Indonesia's BBB sovereign credit rating with a stable outlook reflects sustained international confidence in the country's macroeconomic stability. The rating agency expects temporary fiscal and external weaknesses to improve as government policy direction and implementation stabilise. S&P also indicated a potential future upgrade if structural strengthening of fiscal and external indicators continues.

Investors Eye Key US Data as Asian Markets Open Weak

Asia-Pacific markets opened lower on Tuesday as investors turned cautious ahead of key US inflation data and the start of the Wall Street earnings season. Rising US Treasury yields and concerns that higher oil prices could sustain inflationary pressures dampened sentiment. The focus is now on the upcoming US consumer price index and quarterly results from major American banks.

US Strikes Iran Again, Explosions Heard in Several Cities

The United States has conducted a third consecutive night of strikes against Iranian military assets, with explosions reported in several Iranian cities including the strategic port of Bandar Abbas. US Central Command stated the operations target coastal surveillance systems, drone and missile capabilities to degrade Iran's ability to threaten civilian shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian state media confirmed multiple blasts across southern provinces, though no casualties have yet been reported.

Tax Day: Why Fiscal Sovereignty Matters

Indonesia commemorates 14 July as Tax Day, marking the 1945 constitutional recognition that fiscal sovereignty is essential for a truly independent nation. The article argues that the country's current challenge is not merely raising tax rates but strengthening long-term institutional capacity, legal certainty, and public trust. Building this fiscal capacity is a collective responsibility that extends beyond the tax authority to the entire government and society.

AGO to Investigate Information on Other Bunkers and Safes Belonging to Febrie Adriansyah

The Attorney General's Office (AGO) has pledged to investigate reports concerning the existence of additional bunkers and safes owned by former junior attorney general for special crimes, Febrie Adriansyah. The probe follows the transfer of three corruption and money laundering cases involving Adriansyah from the National Police's Corruption Eradication Corps. The AGO has stated it will form a special team and involve the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) to ensure the investigation is handled transparently and without conflicts of interest.

Traffic Chaos as Crane Truck Gets Stuck on Tendean Pedestrian Bridge

A crane truck became lodged under the Tendean pedestrian bridge in South Jakarta early Tuesday morning, causing severe structural damage and heavy traffic congestion. The incident occurred around 1 a.m. WIB, leaving the bridge impassable for pedestrians and creating gridlock for vehicles heading towards Blok M. Authorities are managing the resulting traffic disruption.

Bapanas: SPHP Rice Distribution Realisation Reaches 678,870 Tonnes

Indonesia's National Food Agency (Bapanas) reported that the realisation of the Stabilisation of Food Supply and Prices (SPHP) rice programme has reached 678,870 tonnes as of mid-July 2026. This figure represents a 274 percent increase compared to the same period last year, driven by expanded distribution channels. The government aims to distribute a total of 828,000 tonnes of SPHP rice in 2026 to maintain price stability for both farmers and consumers.

Karet and BNI City Stations to Be Integrated

State railway operator PT KAI is set to integrate Karet Station with BNI City Station by 28 September 2026 to enhance passenger safety and comfort. The project will convert Karet Station into a concourse with air-conditioned travelators, centralising gate operations at BNI City. The move aims to streamline commuter flows, improve intermodal access to Soekarno-Hatta Airport, and address safety concerns in the busy central Jakarta corridor.

Iranian Missiles Strike Two UAE Tankers, Crew Member Killed as Tensions Surge

Two Emirati oil tankers were struck by Iranian missiles in Omani territorial waters near the Strait of Hormuz, resulting in the death of an Indian crew member and injuries to eight others. The attack has significantly escalated regional tensions and raised fresh concerns over the security of the world's most critical energy shipping route. The UAE has condemned the strike as an act of piracy and a direct threat to global energy security.

JHT Tax: Tax Office Chief Awaits Purbaya's Directive

The Director General of Taxes has stated that the review of the Old Age Security (JHT) tax rules falls under the authority of the Fiscal Strategy Agency, and his office is awaiting further instructions. Currently, 95% of JHT beneficiaries are exempt from tax as their claims fall below the Rp 50 million threshold. Workers' unions have requested the complete abolition of the tax, arguing it should only apply to investment returns, while the Finance Minister has indicated a willingness to review the threshold and progressive tax rules.

House in Koja, North Jakarta, Gutted by Fire; Explosion Heard

A residential property in Koja, North Jakarta, which also served as a wooden frame workshop, was destroyed by a fire early on Tuesday. Residents reported hearing an explosion before the blaze intensified, with the fire service suspecting an electrical short circuit as the cause. Firefighters managed to extinguish the flames within an hour of arriving at the scene.

President Sets Special Fuel Price of Rp 15,000 per Litre for 30-200 GT Fishing Vessels

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed a special diesel price of Rp 15,000 per litre for fishing entrepreneurs operating vessels between 30 and 200 gross tonnage. The policy bridges the gap between subsidised fuel for smaller boats and the non-subsidised market price, which previously reached Rp 21,300 per litre. The price differential will be funded by the Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP) rather than the state budget.