Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 July 2026

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Sanaa Airport Bombed, Houthis Threaten Major Retaliation Against Saudi Arabia

Yemen's Houthi forces have threatened to strike key airports, ports, and oil facilities across Saudi Arabia after accusing Riyadh of bombing Sanaa International Airport. The attack, which the Houthis claim targeted civilian and humanitarian flights, has shattered a fragile truce that had been in place since 2022. The group released a video mapping potential targets, signalling an escalation in the long-running conflict.

Iran and Saudi Arabia Discuss Enhanced Cooperation for Hajj Services

Iranian and Saudi officials have met to discuss improving services for pilgrims and ensuring the timely issuance of Umrah visas. The talks, held in Tehran, focused on continuing coordination to provide better services for Iranian pilgrims. Both sides emphasised the importance of facilitating scheduled departures to the holy sites.

Positive Automotive Trend Fuels Gaikindo's Optimism for GIIAS 2026

Indonesia's automotive industry is showing strong growth, with wholesale vehicle sales rising 15.8% year-on-year in the first half of 2026. This positive momentum, alongside a 7.7% increase in exports, has bolstered Gaikindo's confidence in hosting the GIIAS 2026 motor show, which will feature a record number of over 65 brands.

Indonesian Students Return to School with Renewed Vigour for New Academic Year

Indonesian students have commenced the new academic year with enthusiasm, donning neat uniforms and bringing supplies for their new classes. The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has mandated that the school orientation period (MPLS) adopt child-friendly and environmentally friendly concepts. The orientation activities are designed to be enjoyable to boost students' spirits on their first day.

China Urges US and Iran to Immediately Restore Security in the Strait of Hormuz

China has called on the United States and Iran to de-escalate tensions and restore safe passage through the strategic Strait of Hormuz following renewed hostilities. The appeal comes after a collapse of a recent peace deal and a series of reciprocal attacks, including a massive US strike on Iranian targets and Iranian missile responses against American facilities. Beijing has offered to facilitate communication, stressing that secure international navigation benefits all parties.

The Plight of Mbah Lanjarsari, a Land Mafia Victim Facing Eviction

An elderly woman in Sleman, Yogyakarta, faces losing her home after two land certificates belonging to her late husband were allegedly transferred without consent and used as collateral for a bank loan. The case, reported to the police, echoes a similar land mafia incident in Bantul and has prompted a university legal aid centre to investigate the suspicious change of ownership.

Weather Forecast 14 July 2026: Tropical Cyclone Haishen Persists North of Papua, BMKG on Alert for Extreme Weather

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued an alert for extreme weather on Tuesday, 14 July 2026, as Tropical Cyclone Haishen continues to churn in the Pacific Ocean north of Papua. The Category 1 storm is inducing convergence zones across several regions, including the Sulawesi Sea and northern Papua, creating unstable atmospheric conditions. Authorities have warned of potential heavy to very heavy rainfall in Papua, with a heightened risk of flash floods, river overflows, and landslides.

Danantara selects eight partners for PSEL phase 2, full tax administration moves to Coretax in July

Indonesia's Danantara Investment Management has selected eight partners for the second phase of its waste-to-energy (PSEL) project. Meanwhile, the Directorate General of Taxes announced that all tax administration processes will be conducted through the Coretax system starting July 2026. Other developments include Pertamina importing 45,900 metric tonnes of LPG from the United States and Danantara working on 26 downstreaming projects worth Rp225 trillion.

US to Impose Naval Blockade on Iran, Trump Announces 20% Tariff on Strait of Hormuz Cargo

The United States has announced a naval blockade of all Iranian ports and a 20% tariff on cargo transiting the Strait of Hormuz, with President Trump citing the need to recoup costs for securing the strategic waterway. The US-led Joint Maritime Information Centre warned neutral vessels to leave the area before enforcement begins, threatening disabling or destructive action against ships that fail to comply. Humanitarian shipments will be permitted subject to inspection, while ship-to-ship transfers aimed at evading the blockade will be treated as hostile cooperation with Iran.

Alarm from Europe and Pentahelix Synergy in Facing the Climate Crisis

Extreme heatwaves crippling European agriculture serve as a stark warning for Indonesia as it braces for a projected severe dry season. The crisis highlights the risk of 'entitlement failure' among vulnerable populations, demanding a shift from state-centric policies to inclusive, local-level collaboration. A pentahelix model involving government, business, academia, media, and communities is proposed as essential for achieving genuine food sovereignty and climate resilience.

Free Nutritious Meal Programme Resumes, BGN Claims Improvements Made

Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme has resumed after a three-week suspension, with the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) conducting direct inspections of schools and service units in Jakarta. The agency claims to have implemented operational improvements during the break to enhance service quality and distribution timeliness. BGN officials also stressed the programme's role in stimulating local food ecosystems by prioritising local produce and involving small businesses.

South Jakarta School Bomb Threat Perpetrator Had Previously Sent Similar Message to Neighbourhood Chief

A 34-year-old man who sent a bomb threat to a South Jakarta primary school had previously sent a similar threatening message to his local neighbourhood chief. Police revealed the perpetrator, identified as MY, acted out of mischief but also cited personal disappointment as a partial motive. The threat, which disrupted the first day of school orientation, was deemed a hoax after a four-hour sweep by security forces.

When the World Recognises Rumah Pendidikan: From Schooling to Learning

Indonesia's Rumah Pendidikan platform has won the WSIS Prizes 2026 for e-government, marking a significant shift from fragmented digital services to an integrated national learning ecosystem. The platform, which embodies a philosophy of accessible and equitable education, now serves over 6.9 million users and integrates 66 educational services. Its success highlights a global recognition of using technology not just for digitisation, but to bridge the access and quality gap for students and teachers, particularly in remote regions.

Police Remain Tight-Lipped on Owner of 74 kg of Gold Found at Febrie's House

Indonesian police are still investigating the ownership of 74 kilograms of gold bullion seized from a residence belonging to former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah. The discovery was part of a series of raids across 12 locations in connection with multiple corruption and money laundering investigations. Authorities have stated that all evidence will eventually be handed over to the Attorney General's Office for further proceedings.

The Legacy of a Long Breath of Resistance in a Clenched Fist

A first-hand account of the funeral processions for Ayatullah Ali Khamenei in Iran, reflecting on the powerful symbolism of the clenched fist as a sign of enduring resistance. The piece explores how the mass mourning served as a social ritual that unified disparate groups, from the general public to critical intellectuals, under shared principles. It ultimately questions the reader's own commitment to their values in the face of adversity.

Minister Dody Hanggodo: Dams Are Strategic Infrastructure Supporting Food and Energy Self-Sufficiency

Minister of Public Works Dody Hanggodo has emphasised the multifunctional role of dams in supporting national food security and renewable energy development. His remarks came as state-owned construction firm PT Nindya Karya completed two major dam projects, which were among five inaugurated by President Prabowo Subianto. The dams are designed to provide irrigation, raw water supply, flood control, and hydroelectric power generation.

Too Shy to Ask, Lost in Deep Learning

An editorial argues that fostering a culture of questioning is essential for Indonesia's new Deep Learning curriculum. It contends that genuine understanding, critical thinking, and intellectual courage are built when students are encouraged to ask honest questions, rather than merely providing correct answers. The piece calls on teachers and schools to create safe spaces where inquiry is valued over silence and rote learning.

Singaporeans working across Causeway speak of trade-offs - after Malaysia minister suggests growing numbers

A Malaysian minister's suggestion that more Singaporeans are seeking work in Malaysia has been met with scepticism, as those who have made the move highlight a trade-off between lower salaries and a higher quality of life. Experts suggest any increase in cross-border workers is likely to be a gradual trend confined to highly skilled professionals and leadership roles, rather than a broad workforce shift. The development is linked to upcoming projects like the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone, which may attract more Singaporean talent in niche sectors.

AGO Clarifies Civil Servant Status of Former Junior Attorney General Febrie Adriansyah, Not Yet Revoked Despite Being a Suspect

The Attorney General's Office (AGO) has confirmed that former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) Febrie Adriansyah retains his status as a civil servant (ASN) despite being named a suspect in a corruption and money laundering case. His status will only change following a legally binding court decision. Adriansyah voluntarily resigned from his position to prevent any negative impact on the institution.

JCI Rallies Nearly 2% Despite Rising Middle East Tensions

The Jakarta Composite Index surged 1.92% on Monday, defying a broader Asian market downturn driven by escalating US-Iran tensions and rising oil prices. The rally occurred despite global investor caution over potential interest rate hikes and domestic concerns about a corruption case involving senior law enforcement officials. Analysts noted that while Indonesia's state budget remains resilient, external headwinds and weak foreign inflows continue to limit market gains.

Energy as an Instrument of Indonesian Diplomacy in the Multipolar Era

Indonesia is well-positioned to leverage its abundant energy resources and critical mineral reserves as strategic diplomatic tools in an increasingly multipolar world. The nation's diverse portfolio, ranging from coal and natural gas to bioenergy and minerals essential for green technologies, provides a strong foundation for enhancing its regional and global bargaining power. This approach aligns with the Prabowo administration's focus on energy security, downstream processing, and industrialisation to build a more confident and mutually beneficial international cooperation framework.

Trump Demands 'Protection Money' to Control Strait of Hormuz

US President Donald Trump has declared that the United States should be paid for controlling the Strait of Hormuz, likening the role to a paid security service. Iran has responded with a stark warning, threatening to treat any cooperation with Washington as an act of war and vowing to prevent American interference in the strategic waterway. The escalating rhetoric follows a series of military exchanges between the two nations, including Iranian strikes on US bases and the closure of the strait by the Revolutionary Guards.

UIN Jakarta Vice Rector II Officially Opens MPLS for 500 Triguna High School Students

SMA/SMK Triguna Utama UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta has commenced its 2026/2027 academic year with an orientation programme for over 500 new students, following the resolution of a school management dispute. The event was officially opened by the university's Vice Rector II, Prof Imam Subhi, marking the full resumption of academic activities. The school aims to develop graduates with national insight and global competitiveness.

Denpasar Police Chief Clarifies Viral Video Alleging Phone Seizure

Denpasar Police Chief Leonardo David Simatupang has refuted claims that he seized a mobile phone from a man who identified himself as a journalist, following a viral video. The man was a reported party in an alleged assault and threat case at a hotel in Legian, and was found to be under the influence of alcohol and tested positive for benzodiazepines. The police chief stated he only requested a temporary halt to recording to maintain order during the investigation.

Saudi Ambassador Guarantees Safety of Indonesian Hajj and Umrah Pilgrims

Saudi Arabia's ambassador to Indonesia has assured the public that the kingdom remains safe for Indonesian pilgrims amid rising US-Iran tensions. He confirmed that domestic stability and flight operations are unaffected, seeking to allay fears following recent military escalations in the Middle East.

Peluang Investor Ritel Investasi di S&P 500 dan Nasdaq

Investor ritel Indonesia kini dapat mengakses pasar saham AS seperti S&P 500 dan Nasdaq melalui tokenized ETF dengan modal mulai dari Rp11 ribu. Teknologi tokenisasi ini memungkinkan pembelian representasi ETF global langsung dari wallet kripto tanpa perlu membuka rekening broker asing. Inovasi ini memanfaatkan blockchain untuk settlement yang lebih cepat dan efisien, seiring dengan pertumbuhan kapitalisasi pasar tokenized aset yang melonjak hampir 400%.

US Military to Reimpose Blockade on Iranian Ports

The United States Navy has announced it will reimpose a naval blockade on all Iranian ports and coastal areas starting 14 July, with approval from President Donald Trump. The blockade, covering Iran's entire southern coastline including oil terminals, will allow neutral shipping and humanitarian aid subject to inspection. The escalation follows a breakdown of a recent ceasefire and comes as Trump stated the US will now charge fees for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz.

Yusril Says Legal Process for Former Jampidsus Could Be Faster After Transfer to AGO, But Cautions on Independence

Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra has stated that transferring the case of former junior attorney general for special crimes Febrie Adriansyah to the Attorney General's Office could normatively speed up the legal process. However, he warned that the main challenge is maintaining independence and objectivity, given the potential conflict of interest. He urged the AGO to answer public doubts through a firm, professional, and transparent process.

Primary School Students in Gianyar Receive Free Uniforms on First Day of School Orientation

The Gianyar Regency government has distributed free school uniforms to new primary school students as part of its commitment to supporting education. The initiative was accompanied by a policy eliminating reading, writing, and arithmetic tests for the first two weeks to ensure a comfortable transition. Officials are also supervising the school orientation period to promote holistic child development and a child-friendly learning environment.

Boyolali District Head Dismissed for Sending Explicit Video to Former Employee

The Boyolali Regency Government has temporarily dismissed a district head, identified by the initial D, for sending an explicit video to a former female employee. The regency secretary stated the official's actions violated Government Regulation No. 94 of 2021 on civil servant discipline. The local government is also providing psychological support to the victim.

Advocate Association Urges HPI Bill to Be Adaptive to Cross-Border Law

The Indonesian Advocates Association (Peradi) Professional has called for the Private International Law (HPI) Bill to be more adaptive to increasingly complex cross-border legal matters. During a parliamentary hearing, the association highlighted that Indonesia's current international civil law is fragmented, leading to legal uncertainty. They proposed clearer regulations on international judicial cooperation and harmonisation with existing national legislation.

Three Suspects in Hundreds of Ecstasy Pills Distribution at Bali Nightclub to Stand Trial Soon

The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Unit (Bareskrim) has handed over three suspects and their case files to prosecutors in Denpasar, Bali, for the distribution of narcotics at the New Star Club. The suspects, including a manager and a waiter at the nightclub, were arrested in March 2026 after an undercover operation uncovered hundreds of ecstasy pills. The case is now ready for trial at the Denpasar District Court.

Tangerang Regency Government to Use Thermal Drones to Detect Residual Fire at Jatiwaringin Landfill

The Tangerang Regency administration is deploying thermal drone technology to detect remaining hotspots following an 11-day fire at the Jatiwaringin landfill in Mauk, Banten. The initiative is part of a comprehensive mitigation strategy that also includes deploying large-capacity water tanks and establishing an internal landfill fire brigade. Authorities are simultaneously planning long-term rehabilitation of the 33-hectare site, aiming to transition from open dumping towards sanitary or controlled landfill operations.

Saudi Envoy Assures Indonesian Pilgrims of Safety Amid US-Iran Tensions

Saudi Ambassador to Indonesia Faisal Abdullah Al Amoudi has guaranteed the safety of Indonesian Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, stating that Saudi Arabia remains completely stable despite escalating US-Iran tensions. He confirmed that flight connectivity between the two nations is operating normally with multiple daily direct flights. The ambassador also highlighted the growing strategic partnership between Indonesia and Saudi Arabia across various sectors.

State Apparatus Urged to Introspect, Bakom: All Are Equal Before the Law

The Head of the Government Communication Agency (Bakom), Muhammad Qodari, stated that President Prabowo has called on all state apparatus, including the bureaucracy, military, police, and prosecutors, to self-correct. The President is said to respect the ongoing legal processes involving state officials that are currently under public scrutiny. The statement underscores the administration's commitment to the principle of equality before the law.

Jakarta Fair Becomes a Platform to Introduce Digital Financing Solutions to the Public

The Jakarta Fair Kemayoran 2026 is serving as a launchpad for digital financing services, with PT Commerce Finance's SPayLater making its debut at the event. The company aims to educate the public on transparent and responsible financing while offering various promotions. The initiative highlights the growing role of digital lending in supporting daily needs and expanding financial inclusion in Indonesia.

Wellness Trend Drives Upgrade in Hotel Facilities, Boosting Pool Industry

The growing demand for wellness and quality stays is pushing the hospitality industry in Indonesia to enhance its facilities, creating a ripple effect for the swimming pool and water treatment sector. Fluidra Indonesia has capitalised on this by opening its first experience centre in Bali, a strategic market for hotels and resorts. The new showroom aims to serve as a hub for innovation and collaboration for property developers, architects, and hoteliers.

Attorney General's Office Officially Halts Data Collection on Free Nutritious Meal Programme Nationwide

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office (Kejagung) has ordered all High Prosecutor's Offices to cease collecting data on the Free Nutritious Meal Programme (MBG). The directive, issued on 10 July 2026, comes as the investigation into alleged corruption within the programme progresses and the inventory phase has concluded. Seven suspects have been named in the case, including a former official from the National Nutrition Agency and an active police general.

Bali Waste-to-Energy Plant Construction Begins, to Process 1,500 Tonnes Daily by 2027

The Indonesian government has commenced construction of a Waste-to-Energy (PSEL) facility in Denpasar, Bali, as part of efforts to address the island's waste crisis. The Rp 3 trillion project, spearheaded by Danantara Indonesia, is expected to be operational by late 2027 and will process up to 1,500 tonnes of waste daily using moving grate incinerator technology. The facility is the first implementation of a 2025 presidential regulation and is projected to create 1,200 green jobs while serving as a model for similar projects across 34 urban agglomerations nationwide.

Ferdy Sambo's Children Pursue Education at Taruna Nusantara, Sparking Speculation on Following Father's Footsteps

The children of convicted former police general Ferdy Sambo are attracting public attention for their educational paths at elite institutions. His son, Tribrata Putra, is reportedly completing his education at the Police Academy, while his daughter attends Taruna Nusantara High School. The developments have prompted speculation about whether they will follow in the career footsteps of their father, who is serving a life sentence for murder.

House Legislative Body to Regulate Journalistic Works in Copyright Bill

The House of Representatives' Legislative Body (Baleg) is considering provisions to regulate royalties for journalistic works within the forthcoming Copyright Bill. The initiative, prompted by input from the Press Council, aims to ensure that any cited journalistic content properly attributes its source, addressing challenges posed by digital technology and artificial intelligence. The technical details of the royalty scheme are expected to be outlined in a ministerial regulation once the bill is enacted.

Tabanan's Catur Muka Statue to Be Revitalised and Enlarged

The iconic Catur Muka statue in Tabanan, Bali, has been dismantled to make way for a larger version as part of a broader urban beautification project. The revitalisation, executed by the Public Works and Spatial Planning Agency, aims to make the statue more proportional to the now-dominant multi-storey buildings along Jalan Gajah Mada. The project is targeted for completion within four months, coinciding with the city's anniversary celebrations.

Malaysia Conducts Major Immigration Operation, Detains 503 Foreign Nationals

Malaysian immigration authorities have detained 503 foreign nationals, including Indonesians, during a large-scale enforcement operation across 16 locations. The operation targeted businesses suspected of employing undocumented migrants and uncovered various immigration violations, such as overstaying and lacking valid identity documents. Authorities have issued witness summonses to 120 Malaysian citizens and reiterated that enforcement actions will continue to combat illegal immigration and human trafficking.

China Urges US and Iran to Maintain Safe Navigation in the Strait of Hormuz

China has called on both the United States and Iran to ensure the safety and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz following renewed military exchanges. The appeal comes after US forces targeted Iranian military assets and Iran retaliated by striking US facilities in the region, escalating tensions in the strategic waterway. Beijing emphasised that a swift return to secure passage benefits all parties and expressed readiness to communicate with relevant nations.

Warning: BPOM Flags 14 Cosmetics Containing Hazardous Ingredients

Indonesia's Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) has taken action against 14 cosmetic products found to contain dangerous or prohibited substances during the second quarter of 2026. The products, mostly locally made, include ingredients such as mercury, hydroquinone, and retinoic acid, which can cause severe health issues ranging from skin discolouration to organ damage and cancer.

Golkar: Ideal Education Cost Rp18 Million per Student, Far Above BOS Funds

The Golkar Party has assessed that the ideal cost of education per student in Indonesia is approximately Rp18 million per year, a figure significantly higher than the current government-provided School Operational Assistance (BOS) funds. Golkar's House faction chairman, M. Sarmuji, highlighted the stark disparity, noting that BOS funds for primary school students currently stand at only Rp900,000 annually. The party is urging the government to review and increase the BOS allocation to ensure higher quality education and greater fairness across regions and types of educational institutions.

TNI Withdraws Security Detail for Former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah Following Suspect Status

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has confirmed the removal of the security detail previously assigned to former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) Febrie Adriansyah. The protection was terminated following his designation as a suspect in a corruption and money laundering case. Officials stated the security was attached to his former position and ceased when his tenure ended.

Disabled Woman in Jagakarsa Raped and Impregnated, Police Hunt Perpetrator

Police in South Jakarta are searching for a man suspected of raping a 25-year-old woman with disabilities, identified as DH, resulting in her pregnancy. The victim, who is speech-impaired, gave birth to a baby boy in July 2026, and the infant has since been placed in the care of social services. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage but have yet to identify the suspect.

AGO Reveals Febrie Adriansyah Voluntarily Resigned from His Post

The Attorney General's Office has disclosed that Febrie Adriansyah voluntarily stepped down as Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes to prevent his personal corruption case from negatively impacting the institution. His resignation has been formally accepted by Attorney General ST Burhanuddin. Following his departure, Adriansyah was named a suspect in three corruption and money laundering cases.