Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 29 July 2026

Showing 451-500 of 1,531 articles

ANTARA strengthens role in amplifying industrial policy to boost economy

LKBN ANTARA's President Director, Benny Siga Butarbutar, has affirmed the news agency's commitment to amplifying industrial policies through balanced reporting that fosters optimism amid global economic pressures. Following a meeting with Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita, both parties agreed that ANTARA should serve as an accurate and strategic source within the national information ecosystem. The Minister emphasised the need to restore ANTARA's position as a leading sector in national news, moving beyond a mere news provider to a strategic state institution.

Pop Mart Expands into Bakery Business, Labubu Bakery Opens Here

Chinese collectible toy maker Pop Mart has opened its first international bakery in Singapore, transforming its iconic characters like Labubu into 3D desserts. The Beijing-based company plans to expand the Pop Bakery concept across Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, before targeting Western markets. The diversification comes as the firm seeks long-term growth amid rising production costs and analyst scrutiny over its sales momentum.

South Korea Issues Bill on Nuclear-Powered Submarines

South Korea's Ministry of Defence has published a public notice for a bill concerning nuclear-powered submarines, aiming to establish a legal framework for the Jang Bogo N project. The proposed legislation seeks to build at least three conventionally armed submarines powered by low-enriched uranium, with a target completion in the mid-2030s. The bill explicitly states the programme is not for developing nuclear weapons and mandates compliance with non-proliferation obligations and IAEA safeguards.

Iran, Ukraine Pledge to Avoid Escalation After Attack on Iranian Vessel

Iran and Ukraine have agreed to avoid further escalation following a Ukrainian attack on an Iranian commercial vessel in the Caspian Sea that killed one sailor. In a phone call, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha described the strike as unintentional and stressed that Ukraine does not seek hostilities. Tehran has demanded compensation for the damage while acknowledging it also does not want the situation to worsen.

Creative Economy Minister says young generation drives digital creative ecosystem

Indonesia's Creative Economy Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya stated that the consumption habits of the younger generation are strengthening the digital creative economy ecosystem. With 63 percent of the sector's 27.4 million workers coming from Gen Z and millennials, the government is exploring collaborations with digital media platforms like Kumparan to boost literacy, promote local works, and expand market access. The sector exceeded investment and export targets in 2025, though the government sees untapped potential in digitally-based creative service exports.

Jakarta Police Distribute Aid to Coastal Residents

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police's Water and Air Unit provided humanitarian assistance to residents in the Pluit area of North Jakarta. The aid included food packages, a wheelchair for an elderly resident, and building materials for a local mosque. The initiative is part of the police's community engagement efforts to maintain public order and security.

Japanese Investment in Indonesia Reaches US$1.9 Billion in First Half of 2026

Foreign direct investment from Japan into Indonesia totalled US$1.9 billion in the first half of 2026, making it the country's fourth-largest source of foreign capital. The figure represents a 6.2 per cent share of total foreign direct investment, signalling strengthening economic ties and robust investor confidence. The government highlighted that participation in the World Expo 2025 in Osaka had generated potential investment commitments worth US$28.9 billion.

Chinese Media Highlights Indonesia-Beijing Relations: Why?

The South China Morning Post examines the evolving economic relationship between Indonesia and China, highlighting deepening cooperation in nickel, electric vehicles, and finance. The article notes that while China provides capital and technology, Indonesia's push for greater domestic value addition through resource nationalism is creating new challenges for Chinese investors. The future of the partnership is seen as dependent on Chinese firms adapting to become joint development partners rather than mere exporters.

BKPM Encourages Mining Companies to Process Critical Rare Earth Minerals Downstream

Indonesia's Investment Ministry (BKPM) is urging mining companies to process critical rare earth minerals domestically rather than exporting them in raw form. The push aims to capture greater added value, as rare earth elements are considered strategic for the defence and other high-tech industries. Separately, the Presidential Staff Office is coordinating to resolve regulatory hurdles that have stalled the export of mineral shipments containing rare earth elements.

Minister mandates sugar factories to own cane plantations to achieve self-sufficiency

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has reaffirmed that all sugar processing companies and importers must own sugarcane plantations to boost national production and achieve sugar self-sufficiency. The policy, originally established under the 2014 Plantation Law, requires factories to source raw materials from their own estates, with no exceptions for those relying on imports. The government is also accelerating a ratoon cane rejuvenation programme across 100,000 hectares this year to support the target set by President Prabowo Subianto.

KPU Member Receives Stern Warning for Using Helicopter to Inaugurate Polling Station Workers in Cianjur

The Election Organiser Ethics Council (DKPP) has issued a stern warning to KPU member Parsadaan Harahap for violating the code of ethics by using a helicopter for an official trip to Cianjur. The DKPP ruled that Harahap lacked a sense of ethics and good governance by accepting the helicopter transport to inaugurate polling station workers (KPPS). A similar sanction was also imposed on a West Java KPU member, while the KPU Secretary-General was cleared of any ethical breach.

Police Identify Suspect in Abandonment of Baby's Body in Pondok Aren, South Tangerang

South Tangerang Police have identified a suspect believed to have abandoned a newborn baby girl on the terrace of a clinic in Pondok Aren. The infant, found dead by nurses with the umbilical cord still attached, is thought to have been born shortly before being left. The suspect is currently receiving medical treatment and has not yet been fully questioned as investigations continue.

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi Expresses Concern Over Pemalang Regent's Arrest by KPK

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi has expressed deep regret and concern following the arrest of Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro in a corruption sting operation by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). Luthfi highlighted that various preventive measures, including retreats, coordination meetings, and integrity pacts, had already been implemented across the province. The governor reaffirmed his commitment to the meritocratic system in place and warned all public officials against abusing their authority for personal gain.

Gowa Regent Questioned Over Alleged Rp16 Billion School Uniform Procurement Corruption

Gowa Regent Sitti Husniah Talenrang has been questioned by South Sulawesi Police as a witness in a corruption investigation. The case involves the alleged misuse of a Rp16 billion budget for the procurement of primary and secondary school uniforms in 2025. The investigation follows a DPRD Gowa special committee inquiry which suspected the procurement did not comply with regulations.

House Commission XIII Member Highlights Trauma of Child Witness to Fatal Mass Violence in Bali

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission XIII has urged the government to provide immediate psychological support for a young child who witnessed their father's death during a mass violence incident in Bali. The legislator emphasised that the state is obligated under child protection laws to ensure the victim receives rehabilitation and trauma counselling. Failure to provide timely intervention could severely impact the child's mental development and future well-being.

Indonesia plans 200 fishermen's villages in Papua

Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries plans to establish around 200 integrated fishermen's villages in Papua as part of a broader blue economy initiative. The programme aims to boost coastal welfare by creating fisheries-based economic hubs covering production, processing, and marketing, with a pilot project already showing improved purchasing power among local fishing households. The government is also advancing quota-based fishing, aquaculture expansion, and marine conservation to balance economic development with resource sustainability.

Doctors to Professional Chefs Deployed to Strictly Supervise Free Nutritious Meal Kitchens

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is moving to strengthen oversight of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme by proposing a supervisory board composed of paediatricians, nutritionists, obstetricians, and professional chefs. The initiative aims to ensure the flagship social policy is monitored by competent professionals who can refine technical standards and menu composition. The plan has received full backing from the Health Minister, with a meeting between the BGN, the Health Ministry, and leading nutritionists scheduled before 5 August 2026 to finalise beneficiary targets and nutritional standards.

KAI, ASDP, and Pelni Report High Uptake of School Holiday Transport Stimulus

State-owned transport operators KAI, ASDP, and Pelni have reported strong utilisation of the government's discounted travel stimulus during the 2026 school holidays. KAI alone transported 3.4 million passengers, with 1.3 million using the discount scheme, marking an 11 percent increase in beneficiaries compared to the previous year. The programme saw high budget absorption across rail, ferry, and sea transport services.

President Prabowo: The People Do Not Need Convoluted Bureaucracy

President Prabowo Subianto has called on all state apparatus to serve the public diligently, stating that Indonesians do not need complicated bureaucracy or underperforming leaders. Speaking at the IPDN campus in Jatinangor, he emphasised that the honour of civil servants is measured by their benefit to the people, not their rank. The President urged the newly inaugurated praja to uphold integrity and prioritise public interest to restore and maintain trust in the state.

Indonesia and Australia Strengthen Protection of Vital Infrastructure from Terrorism

Indonesia and Australia have reinforced their commitment to regional security through an ASEAN-Australia counter-terrorism forum in Bali. The event focused on sharing best practices for protecting crowded places, vulnerable targets, and critical infrastructure. The forum brought together government officials, international organisations, academics, and the private sector to build cross-sector synergy against evolving terrorist threats.

Traffic Police Chief Stresses Early Education in Schools and Pesantren to Instil Road Safety

The Head of the Indonesian National Police Traffic Corps, Inspector General Wibowo, has highlighted the critical need for early road safety education to reduce traffic violations and accidents. He announced that the Traffic Corps is actively expanding its educational outreach programmes into schools, universities, and Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) across the country. The initiative aims to cultivate a culture of orderly traffic behaviour from a young age, rather than relying solely on punitive measures.

Govt develops framework to deliver free meals program in risk zones

The Indonesian government is developing mechanisms to distribute the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program in conflict-prone areas, utilising local institutions and security forces. A broader governance reform is also underway, with audits of over 13,000 community kitchens prioritised for regions with high stunting rates like Highland Papua and East Nusa Tenggara. Officials aim to finalise an updated beneficiary database covering 63 million recipients within 30 days.

Japan Grows More Active in Investing in Indonesia

Japanese investment in Indonesia continued to strengthen in the first half of 2026, reaching US$1.9 billion and making Japan the fourth-largest foreign investor. The Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming attributes this growth to increased investor confidence and the strong bilateral economic partnership. Indonesia's participation in the World Expo 2025 Osaka generated US$28.9 billion in potential cooperation, with green industry and downstreaming dominating commitments.

How Career Development, Promotion, and Transfer of Civil Servants Work Within the DPD RI Secretariat General

The Secretariat General of Indonesia's Regional Representative Council (DPD RI) has reinforced its commitment to merit-based human resource management during its Talent Summit 2026. Secretary General Mohammad Iqbal stressed that all career policies, including promotions and transfers, will be conducted objectively and transparently based on competence, performance, and integrity. The institution is accelerating its talent management ecosystem, having already achieved a 'Very Good' Merit System rating and secured approval for its digital talent management platform.

Indonesia Flooded with Imported Sugar, Sugarcane Farmers Suffer, Prabowo Government Takes Action

The Indonesian government, under President Prabowo Subianto's directive, is launching a major overhaul of the sugar industry to achieve self-sufficiency within two years. Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman announced mandatory plantation ownership for all sugar processing companies and importers, alongside a large-scale sugarcane replanting programme. This action comes as uncontrolled imports have caused massive losses for state plantations and farmers, with an estimated economic loss of up to Rp7 trillion.

DPR Member Calls on Government and Civil Society to Jointly Safeguard Democracy

Indonesian House of Representatives member Azis Subekti has urged the government and civil society to avoid mutual suspicion and work together to protect democracy. He emphasized that both entities derive their legitimacy from popular sovereignty and warned against framing criticism as a threat. Subekti also commented on the emergence of a 'Shadow Cabinet' by academics and activists, stating that civil society should not be narrowly defined as merely an opposition force.

PLN EPI Offers Up to Five-Year Purchase Contracts to Secure Biomass Suppliers

PT PLN Energi Primer Indonesia (PLN EPI) is providing long-term purchase contracts of up to five years to biomass suppliers to ensure supply chain stability and encourage investment. The initiative aims to build a robust national bioenergy ecosystem by guaranteeing market access for producers who maintain high quality and consistent supply. This strategy supports Indonesia's energy transition by targeting 3.7 million tons of biomass usage by 2026, potentially creating 150,000 green jobs and reducing emissions by 12 million tons of CO2 equivalent annually.

Legal Counsel Claims Transmigration Land Case in Kukar Falls Under Civil Jurisdiction

The legal team for defendant Budiono Tanbun has urged the Samarinda District Court to dismiss a corruption case involving transmigration land in Kutai Kartanegara, arguing the charges have expired and the dispute is a civil matter. The case, which allegedly caused state losses of Rp696.9 billion, centres on coal mining operations conducted on land under the management rights of the Transmigration Directorate General. The presiding judge has adjourned the trial until next week after hearing the preliminary objections.

El Niño Impact in West Aceh: Hundreds of Hectares of Rice Fields Threatened with Crop Failure

Hundreds of hectares of newly planted rice fields in West Aceh are at risk of total crop failure due to extreme drought caused by the El Niño phenomenon. Farmers in Samatiga District report that the absence of significant rainfall for two months has left the soil cracked and dry, stunting the growth of crops barely a month old. Emergency measures such as water pumps are being recommended, though access remains limited for many farmers.

Nabire Government Develops Biofortified Rice to Bolster Food Security

The Nabire Regency government in Central Papua is pioneering the cultivation of biofortified rice, specifically the Inpari Arumba variety, to enhance food security and public nutrition. The initial 5-hectare demonstration plot, funded by special autonomy (Otsus) funds, has yielded its first harvest despite irrigation challenges. The local government views this as a strategic step to improve welfare and diversify food sources in line with regional development plans.

BPBD Deploys Four Helicopters to Combat Forest and Land Fires in Banyuasin

The South Sumatra Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has deployed four water-bombing helicopters to tackle forest and land fires in Banyuasin Regency, which have spread to eight hectares. Firefighting efforts are ongoing as the area continues to emit smoke. Additional aerial operations are also targeting a half-hectare fire in Ogan Komering Ilir Regency.

Jordan Intercepts Five Iranian Ballistic Missiles Amid Renewed Regional Tensions

Jordan's military intercepted and shot down five Iranian ballistic missiles targeting the kingdom on Wednesday, marking the first regional attack by Iran since a truce with the United States. Iran's Revolutionary Guard confirmed the strike, claiming it targeted US military assets in Jordan in response to 'aggressive actions'. The escalation follows a brief lull in hostilities that had temporarily eased global oil prices.

Man Arrested in West Jakarta for Possessing Synthetic Tobacco During Police Raid

A man identified as TA was arrested in the Tamansari area of West Jakarta after police found a packet of synthetic tobacco, known locally as 'sinte', during a routine raid. The suspect claimed he purchased the narcotic for personal use for IDR 50,000 from an individual now listed as a fugitive. Authorities have charged the man under Indonesia's narcotics law and seized the drugs along with his mobile phone and motorcycle.

East Lombok Chromebook Corruption Case Unresolved, Prosecutor's Office Urges Patience

The East Lombok District Prosecutor's Office is continuing its investigation into the alleged corruption of a Rp 32 billion Chromebook procurement funded by the 2022 Special Allocation Fund. The public has been asked to be patient as investigators delve deeper into the case, which has already seen six individuals convicted. The development of the case includes the scheduled examination of former East Lombok Regent Sukiman Azmy and Regional Secretary Muhammad Juaini Taofik.

Rupiah Strengthens as Markets Adopt Cautious Stance Ahead of FOMC Meeting

The Indonesian rupiah edged higher against the US dollar on Wednesday, closing up 10 points at Rp18,073, as a weakening dollar index provided some support. Market participants are adopting a cautious approach while awaiting the outcome of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting and clarity on the appointment of a new Bank Indonesia Governor. Analysts noted that the central bank's cumulative 100 basis point rate hike since May 2026 continues to underpin the local currency.

Son of Slain Jatiluhur Dam Security Guard Remembers Father as Humble Liverpool Fan

The eldest son of Sumarna, a security guard at the Jatiluhur Dam who was murdered, has paid tribute to his father as a devoted family man who loved Liverpool FC. Gerald Surya Pratama, 17, recalled how his father prioritised simple family moments and even named him after a Liverpool player. The family is appealing for the police to swiftly uncover the perpetrator of the crime.

Drought in Central Java: 148 Villages Affected, 6.8 Million Litres of Water Distributed

The Central Java provincial government has distributed 6.8 million litres of clean water to 25 regencies and cities as the dry season intensifies, affecting over 184,000 residents across 148 villages. Authorities report that water reserves remain sufficient, with 40 million litres still available, while also preparing to mitigate a surge in wildfires and protect agricultural output. Governor Ahmad Luthfi has secured central government approval for water pump assistance to safeguard the province's rice production targets.

Indramayu Firefighters Clear Blocked Irrigation to Save Farmers' Rice Fields

Firefighters in Indramayu Regency, West Java, expanded their role beyond firefighting by using high-pressure water jets to clear a blocked irrigation channel in Lobener Lor Village. The blockage had halted water distribution to local rice fields, threatening the planting season. Officials urged the community to maintain clean waterways and avoid dumping waste into irrigation systems.

Telkom Wins Lestari Award 2026 for Commitment to Sustainable Talent Development

PT Telkom Indonesia has received the Lestari Award 2026 in the Talent Management category for its People Development Plan, an initiative designed to build future-ready digital leaders. The award, presented by Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono, recognises the company's integrated talent ecosystem that supports sustainable business transformation. The programme focuses on strengthening human resource capabilities through learning platforms, coaching, and innovation to meet the challenges of the digital industry.

Sudaryono: Grobogan School Was Already Damaged Before Free Nutritious Meal Programme

Head of the National Nutrition Agency, Sudaryono, has clarified that a primary school in Grobogan, Central Java, was already in a state of disrepair long before the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme was launched. He urged the public to report any dilapidated schools to the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education for immediate renovation. The government has already renovated 16,000 schools in 2025 and plans to repair up to 90,000 more this year.

Pos Indonesia Settles Sukuk Obligations, Public Policy Observer Commends Move

PT Pos Indonesia has completed a Rp 24.118 billion payment for its Sustainable Ijarah Sukuk, drawing praise for its commitment to stakeholders despite a prior cash flow delay. Public policy observer Dr. Iswadi highlighted the state-owned enterprise's transparency and its decision to also pay compensation for the late payment as a demonstration of strong institutional integrity. The move is seen as reinforcing public trust in state-owned enterprises and Indonesia's capital market.

Deputy National Police Chief Inaugurates KBPP Polri Board for 2026–2031, Urges Superior and Competitive Human Resources

Deputy National Police Chief Commissioner General Dedi Prasetyo has inaugurated the Central Board of the Police Family Association (KBPP Polri) for the 2026–2031 term in Jakarta. The new leadership is tasked with strengthening human resource development, public empowerment, and supporting the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision. The board was directed to focus on economic empowerment, professional digital governance, and community service to address modern challenges such as digital transformation and cyber security.

BPH Migas Ensures Targeted Subsidised Diesel Distribution for Fishermen

Indonesia's Downstream Oil and Gas Regulatory Agency (BPH Migas) is working with Ombudsman RI and Pertamina Patra Niaga to ensure subsidised diesel fuel reaches eligible fishermen in Central Java. A field inspection at the Tawang Fishermen's Fuel Station in Semarang confirmed that distribution is running smoothly, with around 1,000 small-scale fishing vessels receiving fuel. The initiative aims to prevent misuse and ensure the subsidy effectively supports the fishing community's livelihood.

PRR Task Force Revives Fish Ponds and Coffee Plantations to Accelerate Aceh's Economy

The Sumatran Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Task Force (Satgas PRR) is restoring fish ponds and distributing coffee seedlings in Aceh to revive local livelihoods. The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries aims to bring 15,000 hectares of ponds back into operation by the end of 2026, while 4 million coffee seedlings are being prepared for the Gayo highlands. Officials emphasise that the programme's success will be measured by the return of community productivity and income, not just physical reconstruction.

INA: Global Investors Still Focus on Indonesia's Fundamentals Before Investing

The Indonesia Investment Authority (INA) asserts that global investors continue to prioritise Indonesia's long-term economic fundamentals and project viability over short-term conditions. INA's Chief Legal Counsel emphasised that sovereign wealth funds and pension funds, with their 20-30 year investment horizons, base decisions on comprehensive macro assessments and specific project due diligence.

Sahroni Urges Police, Migrant Worker Ministry, and Immigration to Eradicate Human Trafficking Syndicates to the Root

House of Representatives Commission III Deputy Chairman Ahmad Sahroni has called for extraordinary measures and stronger coordination between the National Police, the Ministry for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers, and the Directorate General of Immigration to combat human trafficking. He stressed that the illegal placement of migrant workers remains a serious issue requiring comprehensive action, from law enforcement against syndicates to improved oversight and governance. Sahroni emphasised that enforcement must be paired with systemic reforms to make official channels more accessible and prevent citizens from falling prey to illegal networks.

Transport Sector Stimulus Absorption During 2026 School Holidays Runs Optimally, Here Are the Figures

The Indonesian government's transport stimulus programme during the 2026 school holidays achieved optimal absorption, with KAI reporting 1.3 million passengers used the 30% train fare discount. ASDP Indonesia Ferry saw 1.25 million users benefit from the port fee waiver, reaching 93.3% of its target, while PT Pelni's 30% sea travel discount also saw strong uptake. Officials noted the increased mobility signals positive economic growth.

National Police Traffic Corps Introduces 'Polantas KARIB' Programme to Strengthen Public Trust

The Indonesian National Police Traffic Corps (Korlantas Polri) has launched a nationwide service programme called 'Polantas KARIB' aimed at transforming traffic police into approachable community partners. The initiative, championed by Kakorlantas Irjen Wibowo, is built on five pillars: Partnership, Active, Responsive, Intuitive, and Integrity. The programme is being implemented simultaneously across all regional police traffic units to foster a more humanistic approach to public service and road safety.

Home Affairs Ministry to Deploy 1,204 IPDN Graduates to Regions Nationwide

The Ministry of Home Affairs is set to assign 1,204 newly graduated Pamong Praja Muda from the Institute of Home Affairs Governance (IPDN) to various regions across Indonesia. The deployment aims to strengthen local government apparatus and support national development towards the Indonesia Emas 2045 vision. The graduates, now junior civil servants, will gain experience in different areas before potentially returning to serve in their home regions.

Roblox and Ruangguru Launch 2026 National Digital Education Initiative

Roblox and Ruangguru have announced a nationwide digital education programme in Indonesia aimed at equipping students with future skills such as creativity, digital literacy, and computational thinking. The initiative, which utilises the Roblox Studio platform, seeks to foster responsible digital citizenship and has already engaged hundreds of schools. A national student competition themed 'Build a Civil & Safe World' will culminate in a grand final in Jakarta in November 2026.