Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 July 2026

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Environment Minister Receives Requests for Waste Management Assistance in West Sumatra

Indonesia's Environment Minister has acknowledged urgent requests from several West Sumatran districts for help tackling waste management issues. He indicated that a revised ministry budget could allow a response within a month, stressing that waste is a national problem requiring serious, coordinated intervention. The minister also highlighted that 74 per cent of national waste remains unmanaged and most landfill sites still use hazardous open dumping methods.

Manggala Agni Personnel and Equipment Standards Evaluated for Forest Fire Preparedness

The Ministry of Forestry is reviewing the minimum personnel and equipment standards for the Manggala Agni firefighting brigade to enhance safety and effectiveness in tackling forest and land fires. The evaluation includes assessing the need for weather modification operations and groundwater level monitoring in fire-prone regions. The minister stressed that budget allocations must be calculated precisely to meet the real needs of field officers.

Bittime launches crypto futures trading service after CFX-OJK approval

Indonesian digital asset trader Bittime has launched a crypto futures service after securing a licence from PT Central Finansial X under OJK supervision. The platform initially offers 49 trading pairs with up to 25x leverage, aiming to provide a regulated and competitive alternative for the country's 22.4 million digital asset consumers. The launch aligns with OJK's expanded regulatory framework for digital asset derivatives and its broader financial sector technology roadmap.

Purbaya Welcomes S&P's Retention of Indonesia's Rating, Vows Fiscal Discipline

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has welcomed S&P Global Ratings' decision to maintain Indonesia's sovereign credit rating at BBB with a stable outlook. He stated that the assessment reflects international confidence in the country's economic policies and pledged to continue strengthening fiscal management. The government also reported that Indonesia's economy grew by 5.11 per cent in 2025, supported by household consumption and investment.

UGM's FK-KMK Hosts 2026 Summer Course on Health Issues in Disaster Management

The Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) is holding a Summer Course 2026 focusing on interprofessional healthcare in disaster management. The programme aims to address coordination challenges during disasters by bringing together 81 students from various disciplines and countries. It features international speakers and field visits to strengthen collaborative capacity in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.

Indonesian govt targets villages to boost creative economy

The Indonesian government is advancing its Creative Village Activation Program as part of a broader 2026-2045 Creative Economy Master Plan (Rindekraf) to empower local communities, including those in disadvantaged and border areas. The initiative aims to develop local talent, increase product value, and expand market access, aligning with President Prabowo Subianto's directive to make cooperatives a pillar of economic revival. Drafted through an evidence-based, participatory process involving 35 ministries, the master plan seeks to transform the creative economy into a new engine for national growth and job creation.

Legal Counsel for Reported Parties Denies Intimidation of Late Dr Icha

Lawyers representing four individuals, including three members of the Timor Tengah Utara (TTU) Regional House of Representatives, have denied allegations of intimidating the late Dr Eliza Princila Utami Pakaenoni. They described the incident at RS Leona hospital as a tense discussion sparked by a family's panic over a snakebite victim's treatment. The legal team insists the matter was resolved amicably and has urged the public to allow the police investigation to proceed professionally.

DPR Approves Proposed Rp4 Trillion Down Payment for 2027 Hajj

The House of Representatives' Commission VIII has approved a proposed down payment of Rp4 trillion for the 2027 Hajj pilgrimage. The funds are urgently required to secure tent accommodation in Saudi Arabia ahead of a looming deadline. Failure to make the payment could result in Indonesia's quota being revoked and redistributed to other nations.

Prolonged Dry Season Threatens Cianjur's Rice Bowl, Local Government Strengthens Mitigation

The Cianjur Regency government is taking steps to mitigate the impact of the dry season on its key agricultural areas, which are vital for regional food security. Officials are focusing on normalising irrigation channels and proposing upgrades to provincial irrigation networks to optimise water distribution. The local government hopes the dry season will not be prolonged, as it could disrupt the region's production targets and the national food self-sufficiency programme.

Wonosobo Food Agency Subsidises 20 Tonnes of Maize for Micro Livestock Farmers

The Wonosobo Food, Agriculture and Fisheries Agency has distributed 20 tonnes of subsidised dry shelled maize to 40 micro-scale poultry farmers to help stabilise feed costs. The maize, priced at Rp5,500 per kilogram compared to the market rate of Rp6,500, was sourced from the Central Java provincial budget. The programme aims to reduce production costs, which are dominated by feed, and maintain the stability of the local egg and chicken meat supply.

Australia Allocates Additional Funding to Reduce Visa Processing Times

The Australian government has announced extra budget funding aimed at reducing visa decision wait times, according to a senior official. The move comes amid a surge in applications and follows Australia's recent reclassification of Indonesia to a higher risk level for student visas, which now requires stricter documentation.

Transjakarta Adjusts Corridor 13 Route After Truck Hits Pedestrian Bridge

Transjakarta has implemented temporary route adjustments and operational changes for Corridor 13 and several feeder routes following a truck collision with a pedestrian bridge (JPO) in South Jakarta. The incident caused severe traffic congestion, prompting the bus operator to terminate services early at Rawa Barat bus stop. Passengers are advised to check official channels for updates and anticipate delays.

Examining Investment Concentration Risks Behind the Danantara State-Owned MI Merger

The merger of four state-owned investment managers under Danantara is set to create a dominant entity controlling nearly 20% of Indonesia's mutual fund market, with combined assets under management exceeding Rp130 trillion. Market observers have flagged potential risks of investment concentration and unfair competition, urging the Financial Services Authority (OJK) to ensure a level playing field. Danantara's COO maintains the consolidation aims to optimise state asset productivity rather than stifle competition.

IPB Expert Stresses Discipline in Vaccinating Hunting Dogs Against Rabies

A veterinary expert from IPB University has called for stricter discipline in vaccinating hunting dogs against rabies following a tragic incident in Bogor. Dr Agus Wijaya highlighted that inconsistent vaccination and myths about performance decline are major challenges. He urged responsible pet ownership and stronger collaboration between the government and communities to prevent future zoonotic threats.

Civil Society Supports Prabowo's Call for Law Enforcement Introspection Amid Public Distrust

Civil society groups in Surabaya have rallied behind President Prabowo Subianto's recent call for government officials to self-correct, urging the East Java High Prosecutor's Office to end the criminalisation of administrative and business disputes. The demonstrators argued that aggressive prosecution tactics are disrupting the investment climate and demanded that investigators focus on proving malicious intent rather than penalising administrative errors. The protest comes amid ongoing scrutiny of the Attorney General's Office following the search and asset seizure of a former senior prosecutor.

West Java Police Identify 141 Illegal U-Turns on Pantura Route Following Fatal Indramayu Crash

Following a recent fatal accident, West Java Regional Police have identified 141 illegal U-turn points along the Pantura route in Indramayu. Authorities plan to coordinate with relevant agencies to close or regulate these hazardous, unpermitted turnarounds to improve road safety. The police are also specifically investigating the legal status of the U-turn near the site of the recent deadly collision.

Pertamina Drilling Expands Non-Rig Services in Prabumulih Field

PT Pertamina Drilling Services Indonesia has successfully completed its first matrix acidizing operation at the Prabumulih Field, marking a significant expansion of its non-rig services portfolio. The operation, conducted with PT Pertamina Hulu Rokan, aims to boost well productivity and supports the company's strategy to become an integrated energy services partner. This development aligns with national efforts to enhance oil and gas production and energy security.

OJK: Eradicating Online Gambling Requires More Than Just Blocking

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has stated that combating online gambling must go beyond simply blocking websites and accounts, requiring a comprehensive approach that dismantles the entire illicit chain. The authority highlighted the need for stronger inter-agency integration, real-time data sharing, and the use of artificial intelligence to identify suspicious transactions and mule accounts. The OJK also warned that individuals involved in buying or selling bank accounts will face severe consequences, including being placed on a financial blacklist.

Early Detection of Non-Communicable Diseases Remains a Challenge, Screening Reaches 15,000 Residents

A nationwide health screening programme in Indonesia has found that approximately 63 per cent of over 15,000 participants have at least one risk factor for non-communicable diseases, highlighting a significant gap in early detection. The initiative, run by Dexa Medica, revealed high rates of hypertension, cholesterol, and blood sugar issues among those tested. The findings underscore the need for greater public awareness and collaborative efforts to promote preventative healthcare.

NasDem Youth Wing Commits to Becoming a Cross-Professional Creative Hub

The NasDem Party's youth wing, Garda Pemuda NasDem (GPND), has pledged to transform into an inclusive hub for young Indonesians from various professional backgrounds. Chairman Prananda Surya Paloh stated the organisation aims to facilitate contributions to the nation beyond practical politics, focusing on real-world action. The commitment was announced ahead of the GPND's second congress, scheduled for July 2026.

Indonesia weighs nationwide urban renewal, new housing areas

The Indonesian government is exploring a nationwide urban renewal initiative and the development of new residential areas, drawing on Yogyakarta's experience in urban planning. The plan, discussed with Governor Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X, aims to modernise cities and improve access to affordable housing. This effort is part of a broader transformational agenda that includes the Three Million Houses program and the Clean Indonesia movement.

Minister Purbaya Responds to Judicial Review of Danantara Patriot Bonds

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has stated the government will respect the legal process following a judicial review filed against the Patriot Bond scheme at the Constitutional Court. The challenge, brought by the Anti-Money Laundering Danantara Coalition, argues that provisions in the Financial Sector Law grant excessive legal immunity to bondholders. The government has prepared legal experts to defend the policy.

East Jakarta Mobile Veterinary Clinic Equipped with Ultrasound and Blood Testing Facilities

The East Jakarta Food Security, Marine and Agriculture (KPKP) Sub-agency has launched a mobile veterinary clinic equipped with advanced diagnostic tools including ultrasound, blood and urine testing, and a surgical suite. The service, which began operations this week, aims to bring affordable animal healthcare closer to residents by rotating through various sub-districts. A detailed tariff structure has been published, with consultation fees starting at Rp35,000 and sterilisation procedures costing up to Rp700,000 for dogs.

Trump Proposes 20% Fee for Hormuz Strait Passage: How Would the Mechanism Work?

US President Donald Trump has proposed charging commercial vessels a 20% fee on their cargo in exchange for military protection through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital trade route controlled by Iran. The controversial plan, announced amid heightened regional conflict, has sparked intense debate over its financial viability and legality under international maritime law. Experts suggest the exorbitant cost would cripple global trade economics, while the proposal echoes historical tolls abolished by the US itself.

Paylater Users Continue to Rise, OJK Urges Public to Choose Licensed Services

The use of digital paylater services in Indonesia is growing rapidly, with financial inclusion reaching 80.51 percent in 2025. Industry players and the Financial Services Authority (OJK) are urging the public to only use licensed and supervised platforms. Consumers are also advised to understand the terms, protect personal data, and borrow within their repayment capacity.

Carbon Project Development Requires Partnerships and Digital Infrastructure

The development of Indonesia's carbon market ecosystem hinges on collaboration between project developers and technology providers to meet international standards and attract financing. This was highlighted at a strategic forum where PT ESGIN Global Partners and PT Agraus Resources signed a Heads of Agreement to advance sustainable projects. The partnership aims to integrate AI, digital MRV, and blockchain to enhance project transparency and credibility.

Child Hero Festival Held to Strengthen Child Protection Ecosystem

Save the Children Indonesia is organising a 'Child Hero Festival' in Jakarta to mark 50 years of advocating for children's rights, amid ongoing challenges such as violence in the home and educational poverty. The event aims to foster cross-sector collaboration to build a more inclusive environment for Indonesian children. Recent incidents, including a child suicide in NTT and food poisoning cases, underscore the urgent need for stronger child protection measures.

High political costs trigger corruption among regional heads, says analyst

A political expert from Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta argues that the exorbitant cost of regional elections is a primary driver of corruption among local leaders. Ridho Al-Hamdi stated that expensive campaigns create 'political debts' that often lead to the misuse of regional budgets. He urged the government and parliament to use the momentum of electoral law revisions to reform political party funding and campaign mechanisms.

Ministry of Public Works builds dam in Buru, Maluku to boost food production

The Indonesian Ministry of Public Works is constructing the Way Apu Dam in Buru Regency, Maluku, targeting completion by 2027. The dam aims to irrigate 10,000 hectares of farmland, transforming the region into a key food production centre to supply local needs and the Masela Block national strategic project. Despite technical challenges and budget constraints causing slight delays, the project is expected to significantly enhance rice harvests and provide additional benefits including flood control and hydroelectric power.

Indonesia aims to boost global Gayo coffee supply via major expansion

The Indonesian government is distributing 17 million coffee seedlings across 17,000 hectares in Aceh to revitalise the prized Gayo coffee sector. The initiative seeks to overcome limited export capacities caused by underperforming yields and aging trees. The Agriculture Minister indicated that further development funds could follow if the current phase is successfully managed, aiming to cement Aceh's status as a modern global cultivation hub.

Vietnam–Japan: Strategic Trust Without an Alliance

Vietnam and Japan have cultivated a deep strategic partnership built on economic integration and political trust, deliberately avoiding a formal military alliance. Japanese investment, now nearing €72 billion, focuses on supply-chain resilience and advanced manufacturing, complementing Vietnam's policy of strategic autonomy. The relationship is framed as a model for middle-power cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, strengthening regional stability without forcing Hanoi into bloc politics.

Oral Tradition as a Guardian of Collective Memory

This article explores the vital role of oral tradition in preserving the collective memory and cultural identity of the multi-ethnic community in Pasaman Barat. It examines how various forms of oral tradition, such as proverbs, pantun, and folklore, function not merely as entertainment but as key instruments for social education, moral guidance, and intergenerational knowledge transfer. The piece argues that these verbal arts serve as a bridge between historical experience and contemporary social life, reinforcing solidarity and local identity amidst social change.

Motorcycle Thief Who Murdered Ride-Hailing Driver in Tangerang Shot During Arrest

Police in Tangerang have shot and arrested a man suspected of murdering a ride-hailing driver and stealing his motorcycle. The suspect, Rahmat Dimas, was shot after allegedly resisting arrest at his hideout in North Jakarta. The victim was stabbed in the neck while sleeping at a driver base camp.

Gianyar DPRD Approves 2025 Budget Accountability Report, Bupati Highlights Financial Governance

The Gianyar Regency Legislative Council (DPRD) has approved the 2025 Regional Budget (APBD) accountability report during a plenary session. Bupati I Made Agus Mahayastra emphasised the government's responsibility to the public regarding financial management and pledged to implement all council feedback. The approval will be formalised into a regional regulation aimed at improving public services, development quality, and community welfare.

Safe Spaces: To Expose or to Silence?

Verbal sexual harassment in Indonesian educational institutions remains a persistent issue, often overshadowed by institutional efforts to protect their reputation. Victims frequently suffer prolonged psychological trauma and choose silence due to fear of social pressure and a lack of faith in transparent handling processes. The article questions whether 'safe spaces' in education truly serve victims or inadvertently protect perpetrators to maintain institutional image.

Is Blood Type O More Prone to High Cholesterol? IPB Expert Explains

A lecturer from IPB University has addressed public concerns regarding the link between blood type O and high cholesterol, stating that scientific evidence remains inconclusive. While some studies suggest a correlation, others find no connection, and the expert emphasises that lifestyle factors play a far more significant role in determining cholesterol levels. The public is advised to focus on healthy living and regular medical check-ups rather than worrying about their blood type.

GP Parmusi Discusses Action-Based Character Building, Prepares Collaboration with Youth and Sports Ministry

The youth wing of the Indonesian Muslim Brotherhood (GP Parmusi) held an audience with the Ministry of Youth and Sports to strengthen synergy in youth capacity development. Discussions focused on character building centred on three values: tenacity, patriotism, and empathy. GP Parmusi expressed its commitment to collaborating on concrete action-based programmes to empower young people as agents of change and future leaders.

Kapolri's Meetings with Attorney General and TNI Chief Hailed as Statesmanlike Gesture

Political analyst Boni Hargens has praised National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo's recent meetings with the Attorney General and the TNI Commander as a statesmanlike effort to maintain institutional stability. The visits are seen as a strategic move to ease potential friction between law enforcement bodies amid a high-profile money laundering investigation involving a former senior prosecutor. Hargens argued the gesture prioritises national stability over sectoral ego.

Mataram Police Arrest Five in Udayana Machete Attack, Four Are Minors

Police in Mataram have arrested five suspects, including four minors, for a violent machete and sickle attack on Jalan Udayana that left a man injured. The assault, which was captured on CCTV and went viral, was reportedly a case of mistaken identity as the perpetrators were intoxicated and looking for a different target. The incident has sparked fear among local residents, who now feel unsafe using the popular public area at night.

Instagram Profits from Heinous Content, Meta Boss's Conduct Exposed

A BBC investigation has revealed that Instagram profited from advertisements promoting child sexual abuse material in India, sparking outrage and government intervention. The findings highlight the platform's failure to detect policy violations, with a former executive stating that Meta's algorithms are designed to maximise profit rather than block harmful content. This comes as Meta was already found guilty in a US court of misleading the public about child safety on its platforms.

Home Affairs Minister: Competent Village Heads Key to Independent Villages and Curbing Urbanisation

Minister of Home Affairs Tito Karnavian has stated that competent village leadership is essential for creating self-sufficient villages and stemming the flow of urbanisation. Speaking at the opening of the second batch of the Village Heads Enter Campus programme at the University of Indonesia, he highlighted that 56 percent of Indonesia's population currently resides in urban areas. The programme aims to standardise the skills of village heads from diverse backgrounds to improve village management and contribute to national development.

IDX Revises HSC Method, 37 New Issuers Added to List

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has revised its methodology for identifying shares with high shareholding concentration (HSC) by introducing a price impact ratio criterion. This change has resulted in 37 additional issuers being flagged, bringing the total to 51. The IDX confirmed that shares identified under the new HSC criteria will be excluded from major indices such as LQ45, IDX30, and IDX80 during the next quarterly evaluation.

Hundreds of High-Achieving Students Receive Roberto Rocca Scholarships

Tenaris has awarded Roberto Rocca scholarships to 360 high-achieving students in Cilegon and Batam, reinforcing its commitment to education and local talent development in Indonesia. The initiative, running since 2014, has now supported over 2,000 students and includes additional donations such as computers for schools. Officials from the Italian Embassy and local government praised the programme's role in creating long-term value and preparing a globally competitive workforce.

Central Jakarta Police Chief Visits District Prosecutor's Office to Strengthen Synergy for More Transparent Law Enforcement

The Central Jakarta Metro Police Chief visited the Central Jakarta District Prosecutor's Office to reinforce inter-agency coordination. Both institutions committed to enhancing a professional, transparent, and accountable criminal justice system. The meeting aimed to improve public trust and ensure legal certainty for the community.

Children need support to adapt to new school environments

A child psychologist has emphasised the crucial role of parents and teachers in helping children adapt to new school settings, advocating for a gradual preparation process rather than last-minute adjustments. The advice aligns with the Education Ministry's plans for a welcoming and safe school orientation programme for the 2026/2027 academic year.

Bekasi Metro Police Arrest Stepmother Suspected of Abusing Toddler Until Comatose

Police in Bekasi, West Java, have arrested a 19-year-old woman, DM, on suspicion of repeatedly physically abusing her four-year-old stepdaughter, QSH, leaving the toddler in a coma. The abuse is alleged to have occurred from May to early July 2026 while the child's biological father was working overseas. Authorities are pursuing charges under Indonesia's Child Protection Law, with penalties enhanced because the suspect is the victim's stepmother.

Padang Student Brought Homemade Bomb to School After Being Bullied, Inspired by Jakarta Case

A 17-year-old student in Padang, West Sumatra, brought a homemade bomb to his school, MAN 3 Padang, after allegedly suffering from psychological distress due to bullying. Police revealed the teenager learned to assemble the device online and was inspired by a similar incident at a Jakarta high school in 2025. No casualties were reported, and authorities are focusing on the student's psychological recovery while investigating his involvement in online groups discussing explosives.

Hoax! Minister Bahlil Did Not Mandate TV Tax Starting 2027

A Facebook post falsely claimed that Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia mandated a tax on television ownership starting in 2027. The accompanying photo was taken from an old context regarding Freeport divestment negotiations. The government confirms there is no new regulation imposing such a levy, which was abolished decades ago.

Undip targets five international students per study programme to boost world ranking

Diponegoro University (Undip) is aiming to enrol at least five international students in each of its study programmes as part of a strategy to break into the world's top 500 universities. The university currently hosts around 200 international students and plans to double its intake next year, including establishing a dedicated international undergraduate medical class. A visiting Malaysian academic stressed that building a strong academic culture should take precedence over merely chasing ranking metrics.

TransJakarta Reroutes Corridor 13 Following Tendean Footbridge Demolition

TransJakarta has temporarily adjusted the route for Corridor 13 due to severe traffic congestion caused by a lorry striking a pedestrian footbridge on Jalan Tendean, South Jakarta. The service is being truncated at Halte Rawa Barat, with several feeder routes also affected. The operator is coordinating with authorities to restore normal operations as soon as the damaged bridge is cleared.