Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 July 2026

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S&P Affirms Indonesia's BBB Rating, Misbakhun Urges Fiscal Discipline

House Commission XI member Mukhamad Misbakhun welcomed S&P Global Ratings' decision to maintain Indonesia's sovereign credit rating at BBB with a stable outlook, viewing it as a signal of international trust in the country's economic fundamentals. He emphasised that the government must safeguard this credibility by maintaining fiscal discipline, strengthening state revenue, and ensuring high-quality spending. The legislator also called for close coordination among authorities to address challenges such as rupiah stability and global energy prices.

Ramai Rights Issue, Ada Keterlibatan Konglo

BRI Danareksa Sekuritas melaporkan setidaknya tujuh emiten Indonesia menggelar rights issue pada Juli 2026, termasuk Singaraja Putra dan Bakrie & Brothers yang mengincar dana triliunan rupiah. Aksi korporasi ini melibatkan sejumlah investor besar seperti Petrosea dan Bakrie Capital, dengan tujuan mulai dari akuisisi hingga perbaikan struktur permodalan. Langkah masif ini menandakan tingginya aktivitas pendanaan di pasar modal Indonesia pada pertengahan tahun.

Coal Prices Heat Up Again as Heatwave Hits European Supply Chains

Coal prices surged, driven by a spike in oil prices and severe logistical disruptions in Europe caused by low water levels on the River Rhine. While short-term supply remains constrained, high inventories at Chinese power plants are limiting more aggressive price rallies.

Australia Pledges Three-Day Business Visa Approvals for Indonesian Investors

Australia has announced that business visa approvals for Indonesian citizens can now be processed in as little as three days. The policy was unveiled alongside the launch of the Katalis 2.0 programme, backed by AUD 40 million to strengthen bilateral trade and investment. The initiative aims to build on previous successes by expanding cooperation in education, healthcare, and support for small and medium enterprises.

Trust Cannot Be Extorted: Surabaya Government Cracks Down on Illegal Community Levies

The Surabaya city government has issued a circular to curb illegal levies imposed on residents, particularly newcomers, under the guise of community self-help. The directive clarifies that only specific, regulated contributions for security, cleanliness, and utilities are permitted, while all civil administration services remain free. This move aims to restore public trust by ensuring that community participation does not become a coercive financial burden.

Densus 88: Bomb Threat at SDN Srengseng Sawah 15 Not Classified as Criminal Act of Terrorism

Indonesia's elite counter-terrorism unit, Densus 88, has concluded that a bomb threat targeting a state primary school in South Jakarta does not meet the legal threshold for a criminal act of terrorism. Following a joint investigation, authorities found no links to domestic or global terror networks, nor suspicious funding. The case has been handed over to the South Jakarta Metropolitan Police for further handling under regional jurisdiction.

Jakarta round-up: Bomb threat advisory, economic census clarification, and first day of school

Governor Pramono Anung urged Jakarta residents to remain calm but vigilant following a bomb threat at a South Jakarta primary school. Separately, the national statistics agency clarified that the ongoing economic census is purely for statistical purposes and not for tax collection. Other notable events included the evacuation of 26 passengers from a stranded vessel in the Seribu Islands and fathers participating in a 'Fathers Take Children to School' movement on the first day of the new academic year.

Commemorating Cianjur's 349th Anniversary, KDM Pledges to Improve Education Quality

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has urged Cianjur authorities to identify areas with limited school access and proposed a collaborative infrastructure scheme to boost education. Speaking at the regency's 349th anniversary, he also outlined plans for tourism development in Puncak and emphasised the need for proper spatial planning. The governor highlighted Cianjur's complete geographical and economic potential, from mountains to marine resources.

Lawmaker Demands Maximum Penalty for Perpetrators of Gang Rape of Minor in Sampang

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called for the maximum punishment for the men involved in the gang rape of a 15-year-old girl in Sampang, East Java. The lawmaker emphasised that the crime is an extraordinary offence that has devastated the victim's future and wounded the public's sense of justice. While 12 suspects have been arrested, police are still hunting 15 others who remain at large.

Said Iqbal: OHS Implementation Applies to Workers in All Sectors

Presidential Special Adviser Said Iqbal has stressed that occupational health and safety (OHS) standards apply universally to all workers, following a fatal incident involving three workers at a PT Moya Indonesia project. Preliminary findings suggest negligence and a failure to register the workers with the national social security programme for employment (BPJS Ketenagakerjaan). The government will issue an inspection notice, and the company has stated its readiness to face legal proceedings.

Bomb Threat at South Jakarta School Ends in Arrest, Suspect Faces 20 Years

A 34-year-old man, identified as MY, has been arrested for allegedly making a bomb threat against SDN Srengseng Sawah 15 Pagi in Jagakarsa, South Jakarta. The suspect, who sent threatening messages via WhatsApp to teachers and staff, faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. Police have secured the scene and plan to conduct a psychiatric evaluation of the suspect, while urging the public to remain calm.

Tendean Pedestrian Bridge Severely Damaged After Truck Hauling Heavy Equipment Collides With It

A pedestrian bridge (JPO) on Jalan Kapten Tendean in South Jakarta was severely damaged and nearly collapsed after being struck by a truck transporting a crane early Tuesday morning. The driver was reportedly distracted by a mobile phone and failed to account for the vehicle's maximum height. The incident caused significant traffic congestion in the area as authorities worked to manage the scene.

Tax Data Signals Strong Growth Ahead for Indonesian Industry

Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes has reported a significant surge in tax receipts, particularly from VAT on imports of raw materials, indicating a potential acceleration in industrial production. Sectors such as textiles, petrochemicals, and animal feed are showing strong growth in input taxes, suggesting increased output in the coming quarters. Overall tax revenue growth was led by the trade, mining, and manufacturing sectors in the first half of 2026.

IIF Raises Rp655 Billion, Ready to Finance Sustainable Infrastructure

PT Indonesia Infrastructure Finance (IIF) has raised Rp655.5 billion through bond and perpetual securities issuances to strengthen its capital and expand financing for sustainable infrastructure projects. The funds, primarily absorbed by asset management firms and insurers, will target sectors including connectivity, digital infrastructure, and health. The company also recently received several international awards recognising its sustainable impact and innovative financing deals.

Tax Day 2026: When Reform Must Touch the Taxpayer

As Indonesia commemorates Tax Day, the focus shifts from the government's internal administrative modernisation to the tangible benefits for taxpayers. While digitalisation and data integration have advanced, the true measure of reform lies in improved taxpayer experience, legal certainty, and reduced compliance costs. The recent expiry of the 0.5% final income tax facility for some MSMEs highlights the gap between policy intent and taxpayer readiness.

Truck Stuck on Tendean Footbridge During Evacuation, Traffic Towards Blok M Congested

A heavy equipment transporter truck became lodged under a pedestrian bridge on Jalan Kapten Tendean in South Jakarta early Tuesday morning, causing severe damage to the structure. The driver is suspected of being distracted by a mobile phone and misjudged the height of his load. The incident has caused significant traffic congestion towards Blok M as authorities work to remove the vehicle.

Bomb Threat Hoax at South Jakarta Primary School on First Day of Term Causes Panic

A bomb threat sent via WhatsApp to teachers at SDN Srengseng Sawah 15 Pagi in Jagakarsa, South Jakarta, caused mass panic and the evacuation of students on the first day of the new school term. Police swiftly arrested a 34-year-old parent of a student at the school, who claimed the threat was a prank. Authorities confirmed no explosives were found after a sweep by the bomb squad and counter-terrorism unit.

Launching Katalis 2.0, Indonesia-Australia Expand Multisector Cooperation

Indonesia and Australia have launched the Katalis 2.0 programme to implement their comprehensive economic partnership agreement (IA-CEPA), building on the success of the first phase. The new phase, backed by over US$33 million in fresh Australian funding, aims to broaden trade and investment opportunities across sectors including health, education, and advanced manufacturing. The initiative will also focus on strengthening small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and developing Indonesian human resources to meet Australian labour market needs.

352 Personnel Deployed to Secure Protest in Central Jakarta

A joint force of 352 officers has been deployed to secure a planned demonstration in Central Jakarta on Tuesday. The protest, organised by the Kwini 8 Residents' Communication Forum, is scheduled to begin at the Central Jakarta Land Office before moving to the Gambir area. Authorities have advised the public to avoid the vicinity to prevent traffic congestion.

Qodari Says Indonesia Increasingly Trusted Globally After Three World Leaders Visit in One Week

Head of the Government Communication Body, Muhammad Qodari, stated that visits by three world leaders in a single week demonstrate Indonesia's growing international trust. The leaders from Belarus, Singapore, and India held bilateral meetings with President Prabowo Subianto, resulting in various cooperation agreements. Qodari noted that these meetings reflect global confidence in Indonesia's economic resilience and political stability.

Police to Question Three DPRD Members Over Intimidation of Doctor Icha

The East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Regional Police are scheduled to question three local parliament members and a civil servant today, following a postponement, over allegations of intimidation linked to the death of doctor Eliza Princita Utami Pakaenoni, known as dr. Icha. The four individuals were initially summoned on Monday but requested a delay through their legal counsel. Authorities have already examined 32 witnesses as part of the joint investigation into the case.

UGM Expert Suggests Scheduling and Route Diversification to Resolve Jogja Last Friday Ride Polemic

A transport expert from Universitas Gadjah Mada has proposed that the Yogyakarta city government collaborate with cycling communities to better organise the Jogja Last Friday Ride (JLFR). The mass cycling event has sparked controversy due to its impact on traffic flow, particularly in the low-emission zone of Malioboro. The expert suggests implementing a structured schedule and alternating routes to prevent congestion while preserving the event's positive environmental message.

A Silent First Day of School: Portrait of State Schools Facing Pupil Shortages

The first day of school in several Indonesian state primary schools was marked by near-empty classrooms, with one school in Boyolali receiving only a single new pupil. The declining student numbers, attributed to demographic shifts and changing parental preferences, have prompted local education authorities to consider merging under-enrolled schools. Despite the lack of pupils, teachers remain committed to providing full support to the few children who attend.

EU Launches €883.6 Million Team Gaza Initiative for Early Recovery

The European Union has launched the Team Gaza Initiative, securing €883.6 million (approximately Rp 18.22 trillion) in financial contributions to support early recovery efforts in Gaza. The initiative, announced during the second Palestine Donor Group meeting in Brussels, aims to restore essential services such as water, sanitation, health, energy, and agriculture. The funds will be channelled through the EU's PEGASE mechanism to ensure secure and transparent delivery to the Palestinian Authority.

Pertamina Pioneers New Tax Oversight Scheme, PLN and Pelindo to Follow

Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes has launched a pilot cooperative compliance scheme with state energy firm Pertamina, aiming to identify tax risks early and provide legal certainty. The programme, which integrates data and a Tax Control Framework, will later be expanded to include state-owned enterprises PLN and Pelindo.

Truck Gets Stuck on Tendean Footbridge, Driver Suspected of Using Mobile Phone

A truck carrying heavy equipment became lodged under a pedestrian bridge (JPO) on Jalan Kapten Tendean, South Jakarta, causing severe structural damage. Preliminary findings from the Jakarta Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) suggest the driver was distracted by his mobile phone and failed to account for the vehicle's height. The incident occurred around half past midnight, rendering the bridge's stairs unusable.

Scrap Yard and Rubbish Dump Fire Erupts in Cengkareng, West Jakarta

A fire broke out at a scrap yard and rubbish dump on Jalan Darussalam in Cengkareng, West Jakarta, early Tuesday morning. Firefighters from the West Jakarta Fire and Rescue Service were deployed to the scene and managed to localise the blaze. The cause of the fire and any potential casualties remain unknown as authorities have yet to release further details.

Prabowo Lowers Fuel Price for 30-200 GT Vessels to Rp15,000 per Litre

The Indonesian government has set a special fuel price of Rp15,000 per litre for fishing vessels between 30 and 200 gross tonnage, following a directive from President Prabowo Subianto. The policy aims to ease operational costs for fishing entrepreneurs and will be subsidised by the Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP) rather than the state budget. A quota of 400,000 tonnes has been allocated for the next six months.

Gold Price Plummets to US$3,900 Level

Gold prices tumbled nearly 3% following President Trump's announcement of a renewed naval blockade against Iran, which sent oil prices soaring. The move heightened inflation fears and increased the likelihood that US interest rates will remain elevated for longer, dampening the appeal of the non-yielding asset. Analysts warn the precious metal could slide further towards US$3,500 if selling pressure intensifies.

West Sumatra High Prosecutor's Office Denies Forcible Pickup of Student Activist

The West Sumatra High Prosecutor's Office (Kejati Sumbar) has denied allegations of forcibly picking up a student activist, Fadil Ramadhan, following a protest. The activist claims he was intimidated and pressured to confess to vandalism, while the prosecutor's office insists he was merely invited for a discussion. The Legal Aid Institute (LBH) has condemned the actions as a potential abuse of power and a violation of constitutional rights.

Jalin's Digital Services Segment Grows 38% Throughout 2025

PT Jalin Pembayaran Nusantara reported a 38 per cent growth in its digital services segment during the 2025 financial year, driven by rising digital payment adoption. The company's annual general meeting of shareholders approved its performance report, highlighting its connection to over 105 banking and fintech institutions. Jalin aims to further enhance national payment infrastructure efficiency to support the government's financial digitalisation agenda.

Halfway Through Iran-US MOU: Hormuz Pushes Conflict into a New Phase

The Iran-US Memorandum of Understanding brokered by Pakistan is unravelling as military dynamics overtake diplomacy, with the Strait of Hormuz becoming the central battleground. Reciprocal strikes and Iran's closure of the strait, followed by a US naval blockade and proposed transit levies, signal a shift from ceasefire talks to a contest over who governs the strategic waterway. With Brent crude rebounding to around US$80 per barrel, markets are beginning to price in a structural threat to global energy stability ahead of the MOU's mid-August deadline.

US Strikes Iran Again, Explosions Reported in Bandar Abbas and Qeshm

The United States has launched a third consecutive night of strikes against Iran, targeting military assets. Following the attacks, Iranian state media reported multiple explosions in the southern port city of Bandar Abbas and on the islands of Qeshm and Kish, with a projectile hitting western Bandar Abbas.

First Day of School: Free Nutritious Meals, Bomb Threat, and Flexitime for Civil Servants

The 2026/2027 academic year in Indonesia began with the distribution of free nutritious meals (MBG) and a government-supported initiative encouraging fathers to escort their children. However, the day was also marked by a bomb threat at a South Jakarta primary school, leading to an evacuation, while civil servants were granted flexitime to accompany their children.

Startup Founded by Bill Gates' Daughter Accused of Secretly Skimming Affiliate Commissions

Phia, a shopping app co-founded by Phoebe Gates, has been accused of using a hidden 'cookie stuffing' technique to improperly claim sales commissions. The startup claims the issue was a technical glitch that has since been resolved, but affiliate network Impact.com has already suspended its account. The controversy draws significant attention due to the involvement of the Gates family and the app's substantial user base and funding.

S&P Maintains Indonesia's Investment Grade Rating Amid US-Iran Tensions

S&P Global Ratings has affirmed Indonesia's sovereign credit rating at BBB with a stable outlook, providing a boost to the country's financial markets. The positive news comes as global markets face headwinds from escalating US-Iran tensions, with President Trump announcing a blockade and 20% tariff on cargo through the Strait of Hormuz, causing oil prices to surge.

Tabanan Police Strengthen Health Services, Bhayangkara Clinic Treats 26 Patients

The Bhayangkara Clinic at the Tabanan Police Resort provided outpatient services to 26 patients as part of efforts to enhance medical care for personnel and the public. The initiative, which ran from morning until afternoon, involved seven health workers and included general check-ups and referrals. Police officials emphasised their commitment to professional and humane service standards.

Food Diversification Campaign Requires Serious, Systemic Approach

The Indonesian government's food diversification programme, particularly the B2SA (Diverse, Nutritious, Balanced and Safe) initiative, has been underfunded and lacks a comprehensive campaign strategy. The author argues that the National Food Agency (Bapanas) must design a long-term, measurable communication plan using models like Berlo's S-M-C-R to shift public eating habits away from rice dependency. Success also hinges on political leaders setting a strong example by adopting the B2SA diet themselves.

Prabowo Calls for Introspection Among Law Enforcement, Urges No Betrayal of Public Trust

President Prabowo Subianto has urged all law enforcement officials to engage in introspection and uphold their integrity, emphasising they must not betray the people's mandate. The government reaffirmed its commitment to consistent anti-corruption efforts and fair, transparent legal processes. Officials stressed that no individual is above the law and called for public unity while respecting the legal principle of presumption of innocence.

Political roundup: Naval base for carrier, asset forfeiture bill, and KPI selection

The Indonesian Navy is racing to prepare a naval base in Lampung to host the country's first aircraft carrier, the Giuseppe Garibaldi, ahead of its arrival in 2026. Meanwhile, the House of Representatives has denied social media claims that it rejected the Asset Forfeiture Bill, insisting deliberations are ongoing. In other developments, the Defence Minister convened a forest area task force meeting, and the selection process for new broadcasting commissioners has commenced.

Receiving Numerous Invitations from Various Regions, Jokowi to Conduct Safari to NTT

Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo is planning a visit to East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) as part of a series of regional safaris. A PSI party official stated that the agenda is being carefully prepared due to the large number of invitations received from across the country. The team is verifying each invitation to ensure the events align with the intended purpose of meeting the people.

Legal Roundup: Former Jampidsus Case, Police-Kejagung Solidarity, and East Java Grant Probe

The Attorney General's Office has denied reports that a former senior prosecutor, identified as FA, travelled to Mecca for umrah after being named a corruption suspect, confirming he remains in Indonesia under surveillance. Meanwhile, the National Police Chief and Attorney General have publicly affirmed the solidity of their institutional relationship amidst the high-profile case. In a separate development, the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned three East Java civil servants as witnesses in a probe into alleged mismanagement of community grant funds.

AGO: Former Jampidsus Febrie No Longer Receives TNI Security Detail

The Attorney General's Office has confirmed that former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah, is no longer receiving personal security from the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI). The TNI separately stated that the personnel attached to Febrie have been withdrawn, as the protection was tied to his official position. This development follows the transfer of three corruption and money laundering cases involving Febrie from the National Police's Corruption Eradication Corps to the Attorney General's Office.

Honda to Debut Compact Electric Super-One at GIIAS 2026

PT Honda Prospect Motor will unveil the Honda Super-One compact electric vehicle for the first time in Southeast Asia at the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2026. The model, inspired by Harajuku youth culture and the classic City Turbo II, features a distinctive design and a Boost Mode that temporarily increases power output from 47 kW to 70 kW. Pricing details remain undisclosed ahead of the exhibition, which runs from 30 July to 9 August in Tangerang.

KPK Optimistic About AGO's Professionalism, Yusril Says Handling Will Be Faster

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has expressed confidence in the professionalism of the Attorney General's Office (AGO) following the transfer of a corruption case involving former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah from the police. The case, which involves alleged corruption and money laundering related to coal procurement, Asabri, Jiwasraya, and Krakatau Steel, saw investigators seize Rp 541 billion in cash and 74 kilograms of gold bullion.

Trump and Macron Among Names on Revenge List Published by Iranian Newspaper

An Iranian newspaper has published a list of 13 world leaders it claims are targets for retaliation over the killing of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The infographic, released by Hamshahri, includes US President Donald Trump, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, and French President Emmanuel Macron. The move follows a vow of vengeance by Khamenei's son and successor, Mojtaba, though there is no indication the list has official government backing.

Danantara Appoints Partners for Second Phase of Waste-to-Energy Plants in Eight Locations

Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund Danantara has selected eight consortiums to develop waste-to-energy facilities across the country, with a combined investment value of up to Rp 25 trillion. The projects, which will adopt European emission standards, involve partnerships between local and international firms from France, Japan, and China. Officials emphasised the initiative aims to accelerate technology transfer and strengthen the national waste management ecosystem.

Police to Involve FBI and Embassies to Verify Dollar Authenticity in Febrie Case

Indonesian police are set to collaborate with the FBI and the embassies of the United States and Singapore to verify the authenticity of foreign currency seized in a corruption case involving former senior prosecutor Febrie Adriansyah. The investigation has also uncovered 74 kilograms of gold bullion, which is currently being tested with assistance from state-owned pawnshop PT Pegadaian. The case, which includes money laundering charges, has been officially transferred from the police's Corruption Eradication Corps to the Attorney General's Office.

Who Owns the 74 kg of Gold in the Ex-Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah Case? Police Respond

The Indonesian National Police have stated that the ownership of 74 kilograms of gold bars seized in a corruption and money laundering case involving former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah remains under investigation. The case has been transferred to the Attorney General's Office, which will continue the probe and determine the owner of the assets. Police are currently focused on verifying the authenticity of the gold with the assistance of PT Pegadaian before handing over all evidence.

KPK Responds to Mahfud's Criticism Over Transfer of Febrie Adriansyah Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has responded cautiously to criticism from former minister Mahfud MD regarding the police's transfer of a graft case involving former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah to the Attorney General's Office. Mahfud argued the transfer lacks a legal basis in the Criminal Procedure Code and urged the KPK to take over the investigation. The KPK stated it respects the ongoing legal process and will continue to monitor the case closely.