Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 29 July 2026

Showing 551-600 of 1,531 articles

Health Ministry and National Nutrition Agency to Consult Nutritionists on Free Nutritious Meals Programme

The Ministry of Health and the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) are set to meet with leading Indonesian nutritionists before 5 August 2026 to refine the target beneficiaries and menu standards of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The discussions will focus on specifying recipient schools, age groups, and locations, with a particular emphasis on stunting-prone areas, as well as pregnant women and toddlers. The outcomes will serve as evaluation material for the BGN in managing the flagship project.

Cilacap PPS: Fishermen Enter Harvest Season

Fishermen in Cilacap, Central Java, are entering the fish harvest season, marked by increased landings of tuna and skipjack since mid-June. The Oceanic Fishing Port (PPS) of Cilacap reports that weather conditions remain a challenge, with authorities intensifying weather briefings to ensure safety at sea. Production is expected to peak towards the end of the year, following seasonal patterns.

Central Java Governor 'Nagged' Officials Before Pemalang Regent's Arrest in KPK Sting

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi expressed regret following the Corruption Eradication Commission's (KPK) sting operation that ensnared Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro. Luthfi stated that he had repeatedly warned all regional heads in the province against corruption, describing his efforts as 'nagging'. The KPK seized over Rp2 billion in cash and sealed several offices in connection with the case, which allegedly involves the buying and selling of positions and projects.

Pegadaian Posts Positive Mid-2026 Performance, West Java Profit Jumps 58.78%

State-owned pawnbroker PT Pegadaian reported a strong first half of 2026, with national net profit soaring 84.4% year-on-year to Rp6.59 trillion, driven by aggressive expansion of its gold ecosystem. The company's total assets rose 53.9% to Rp186.33 trillion, while its non-performing loan ratio improved to 0.71%. The West Java regional office contributed significantly, recording a 58.78% increase in net profit, which management attributed to rising public trust and growing interest in gold investment and sharia-compliant financing.

Bumi Etam Chemical Signs FEED Contract for Coal-to-Methanol Downstreaming

PT Bumi Etam Chemical has signed a Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) contract and an EPCC Framework Agreement for a national strategic coal gasification project in East Kalimantan. The agreement marks the start of basic engineering for the facility, which will convert coal into methanol. The project supports the national downstreaming policy and fulfils the added-value obligations of its shareholders, Arutmin and KPC.

West Java Begins Construction of Legok Nangka Waste-to-Energy Plant to Resolve Greater Bandung Rubbish Crisis

The West Java provincial government has commenced construction of the Legok Nangka Waste-to-Energy (PSEL) facility in Bandung Regency, targeting operations by 2029. The project, valued at approximately USD 400 million, is designed to process 2,000 tonnes of waste daily from Bandung City, Bandung Regency, West Bandung Regency, and Cimahi City, generating around 40 megawatts of electricity. Officials stated the plant will provide a long-term solution to the region's landfill capacity issues, boost energy supply for investment, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Isuzu Eyes New Business Opportunities at GIIAS 2026, Transforming Trucks into Salons and Campervans

PT Isuzu Astra Motor Indonesia showcased creatively modified commercial vehicles at GIIAS 2026, converting trucks into mobile salons and campervans to tap into new business segments. The company aims to demonstrate that its vehicles can support not only logistics but also the growing creative and tourism industries. The display included a Traga mobile salon in collaboration with Paragon Corp and an ELF campervan, highlighting flexible solutions for SMEs.

Bank Muamalat's Cash Management Transactions Reach Rp47.9 Trillion as of June

PT Bank Muamalat Indonesia Tbk reported that transaction volume through its MADINA cash management system hit Rp47.9 trillion in the first half of 2026. The number of corporate users grew 12.1% year-on-year, contributing to an 11.8% increase in average low-cost CASA balances. The bank's CEO attributed the growth to successful strategic collaborations and relevant service initiatives.

PEVC 2026 to Discuss Electric Vehicles and Economy in October

The PERIKLINDO Electric Vehicle Conference (PEVC) 2026 is scheduled for 28 October in Jakarta, focusing on the future of clean mobility and its economic impact. The forum will explore strategies for energy resilience, sustainable industrialisation, and national economic transformation through the electric vehicle ecosystem. Discussions will also cover innovations in battery technology, autonomous driving, and the electrification of logistics and maritime sectors.

Former Driver Who Torched Medan Judge's House Sentenced to 6 Years

A court in Medan has sentenced Fahrul Azis Siregar to six years in prison for setting fire to the home of judge Khamozaro Waruwu. The panel of judges found the defendant's actions caused public unrest and significant financial losses. The verdict was delivered under articles of the new Indonesian Criminal Code.

Dudung Appreciates Productive Rehabilitation Programme for Nusakambangan Inmates

Presidential Chief of Staff Dudung Abdurachman has praised the rehabilitation programme at Nusakambangan prison for equipping inmates with vocational skills and economic independence. During a visit, he observed garment production and tasted cassava-based ice cream made by the prisoners. He noted the initiative provides hope and income-generating abilities for inmates upon their release.

IKN Most Ready Region in Indonesia for Virtual Power Plants, Says BRIN

The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has identified the Nusantara Capital City (IKN) as the most infrastructure-ready region in Indonesia for implementing Virtual Power Plant (VPP) technology. This readiness is attributed to IKN's integrated underground Multi Utility Tunnel, which combines electricity, fibre optics, and gas. For other regions, significant infrastructure upgrades including digitalisation and cyber security are required before VPP adoption is feasible.

BGN Prepares Free Nutritious Meal Distribution Scheme for Conflict-Prone Areas

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is developing a special mechanism to deliver the free nutritious meal (MBG) programme to children in conflict-prone and remote regions of Indonesia. Pilot projects have been conducted in collaboration with the military and police, utilising public facilities such as churches as distribution points. The agency is also working with the Ministry of Health and nutrition experts to refine meal formulations and address high stunting rates, particularly in eastern Indonesia.

Impact of Prolonged Dry Season in Sukabumi Continues to Spread

The prolonged dry season in Sukabumi Regency, West Java, is causing a growing number of forest and land fires as well as water shortages. The local disaster mitigation agency (BPBD) reported 16 fire incidents and 12 drought cases, with officials warning the situation could worsen. Authorities are intensifying coordination and urging the public to report any incidents promptly to enable rapid response.

Saudi Arabia on the Brink of Regional War with Iran, Yemen, and Iraq

Saudi Arabia finds itself increasingly encircled by Iranian-backed forces, facing missile and drone attacks from Houthi rebels in Yemen and militias in Iraq. The Kingdom's patience has snapped, leading to joint airstrikes with the United States against militia targets in eastern Iraq. This escalation threatens Riyadh's economic diversification plans and exposes the fragility of its détente strategy with Tehran.

KSP Chief Praises Immigration and Corrections Ministry's Innovation in Nusakambangan, to Report to President

Chief of the Presidential Staff Dudung Abdurachman has lauded the innovative inmate rehabilitation programmes on Nusakambangan Island, highlighting their contribution to national food security and skills development. During a visit with the Minister of Immigration and Corrections, he observed agricultural and craft activities that generate income for inmates and the prison system. Abdurachman intends to report these best practices to the President as a model for other government institutions.

Bank Mandiri Taspen and West Java Government Discuss Strengthening Pension Services

PT Bank Mandiri Taspen and PT Taspen (Persero) met with West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi to discuss enhancing pension services for civil servants and retirees. The collaboration aims to improve access and quality of financial services, including the distribution of pension benefits and old-age savings. Bank Mandiri Taspen reaffirmed its commitment to providing inclusive banking solutions tailored to the needs of pensioners in the region.

South Sumatra Police Secure Legality of Community Oil Wells to Support Energy Resilience

The South Sumatra Regional Police are spearheading a drive to legalise thousands of community-run oil wells, transitioning them from illegal operations to regulated entities under cooperatives and regional-owned enterprises. The initiative, launched in Lahat Regency, is a collaborative effort involving the provincial government, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, and SKK Migas to bolster national energy security. Officials emphasised that formalising these wells will prevent state asset losses, curb environmental damage, and improve safety for local miners.

Transforming Tuition Payment Systems: Finpay Strengthens Financial Ecosystems for Educational Institutions

Indonesian educational institutions are moving away from manual cash management due to security risks and administrative inefficiencies. Finpay, a subsidiary of the Telkom Group, is driving this shift by offering an integrated digital payment platform that automates real-time bookkeeping for schools. The system provides transparency for school administrators and parents while linking directly to academic information systems for seamless validation.

House Commission II Urges Government to Tackle Root Causes of Regional Head Graft Arrests

The House of Representatives' Commission II has called for a shift in focus from mere enforcement to addressing the systemic drivers of corruption among regional leaders, following a spate of arrests by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). Deputy Chairman Dede Yusuf identified high political costs, extensive authority, and inadequate official income as key factors pushing elected heads into corrupt practices. The commission is advocating for reforms to reduce election expenses and ensure that candidacy is based on ideas rather than financial might.

House Commission XII pushes for waste management to become an economically valuable system

House of Representatives Commission XII Chairman Bambang Patijaya has urged a shift in Indonesia's waste management from a disposal-based approach to a system that generates economic value. He highlighted that current practices, including open dumping and mixing sorted waste, contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental pollution. The commission is promoting the reduce, reuse, and recycle principles and has provided equipment to strengthen community-based waste management.

Traffic Police Chief Receives Presidential Staff Office Delegation, Discusses 2026 Christmas and New Year Preparations and ETLE Optimisation

The Head of the Indonesian National Police Traffic Corps (Kakorlantas) met with the Presidential Staff Office (KSP) to coordinate strategic national agendas, including the 2026 Christmas and New Year security operation and the 2027 Ketupat Operation. Discussions also focused on the comprehensive implementation of the zero over-dimension and overloading (ODOL) policy, which requires synergy across at least ten ministries to avoid disrupting logistics. The meeting further explored the optimisation of the Electronic Traffic Law Enforcement (ETLE) system to enhance public service and boost non-tax state revenue.

NTB Governor Invites Businesses to Develop People's Salt Industry

West Nusa Tenggara Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal is urging investors to develop the region's salt industry, citing its high-quality content comparable to Australian salt. The provincial government is ready to facilitate investment to transform the sector from small-scale farming into a major economic driver. The initiative aligns with national efforts to achieve salt self-sufficiency and leverage NTB's vast coastal land.

Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro Questioned by KPK in 18th Sting Operation of 2026

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is intensively questioning Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro following his arrest in a sting operation (OTT). The operation, the 18th conducted by the anti-graft body in 2026, relates to alleged corruption involving the buying and selling of positions and development projects within the Pemalang district government. A total of 21 individuals were detained across multiple locations, with the KPK also seizing evidence including Rp2 billion in cash.

ASEAN Has Opportunity to Become International Event Hub Through Collaboration

ASEAN has a significant opportunity to strengthen its position as a destination for international events through regional collaboration and schedule alignment. Singapore Tourism Board's Indonesia Director highlighted that synchronising event calendars and leveraging close proximity between cities could attract more international participants. The Southeast Asia Business Events Forum 2026 in Jakarta aims to reposition business events as key drivers of economic value and sustainable tourism growth.

Deputy Minister Stresses Importance of Competency Standards for Esports Industry

Indonesia's Deputy Minister for Creative Economy, Irene Umar, has emphasised the need for standardised competency frameworks to boost the global competitiveness of the nation's esports industry. The government is collaborating with the Indonesian Esports Association (IESPA) to develop human resources and improve ecosystem governance. This initiative aims to professionalise the sector and unlock its potential as a new engine for national economic growth.

Drought Hits 17 Regencies and Cities in West Java

A prolonged dry season has triggered drought and clean water crises across 17 regencies and cities in West Java, affecting over 64,000 families. The West Java Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has distributed more than 4.2 million litres of water to the worst-hit areas, with Bogor and Bekasi regencies among the most severely impacted. Authorities are urging residents to conserve water as the dry conditions persist.

41 Underprivileged Batang Residents Secure Jobs in Shoe Manufacturing Industry

A vocational training programme in Batang, Central Java, has successfully placed 41 participants from underprivileged families into employment within the shoe manufacturing sector. The initiative, run by Rumah Amal Salman, provided technical skills and on-the-job training to help beneficiaries overcome economic challenges. One participant, a junior high school graduate, secured a permanent role after completing the programme, highlighting its impact on social mobility.

The Irony of Anom Widiyantoro: A SOE Auditor Turned Corruption Suspect

Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro, a former state-owned enterprise auditor, has been caught in a KPK sting operation over alleged bribery and position trading. The arrest is deeply ironic given his professional background in risk management and internal audit at PT Wijaya Karya. The KPK seized over Rp2 billion in cash and is intensively investigating the case.

Legok Nangka Waste-to-Energy Plant to Have 40.79 MW Capacity

The Indonesian government has announced that the Legok Nangka waste-to-energy plant in West Java will have a capacity of 40.79 megawatts, backed by a Rp7.2 trillion investment. The project, which is expected to be completed by 2029, aims to reduce urban waste and cut greenhouse gas emissions by 311,874 tonnes of CO2 equivalent. The facility is intended to serve as a national model for converting waste into sustainable energy.

BULOG Strengthens Collaboration to Guarantee Absorption of Blora Farmers' Sugarcane

State logistics company Perum BULOG is reinforcing partnerships to ensure sugarcane farmers in Blora Regency have guaranteed market access during the operational recovery of its subsidiary, PT Gendhis Multi Manis. The initiative includes exploring collaboration with PT Wahana Gula Investama in Tegal to provide alternative absorption channels for the harvest. BULOG emphasised that protecting farmers' livelihoods remains its top priority while it finalises technical studies to restore the factory's operations under good corporate governance principles.

Mitsubishi Banks on New Xforce HEV as Main Draw at GIIAS 2026

Mitsubishi Motors is positioning the new Xforce HEV as its star attraction at the GAIKINDO Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2026. The hybrid model marks the brand's first locally produced and officially marketed electrified vehicle in Indonesia, signalling a strategic shift towards greener mobility. The company aims to leverage the event to showcase its expanding product line and strengthen its commitment to the Indonesian market.

Ahead of Jokowi's Visit, PSI NTT Says All Preparations in Kupang Are 100 Per Cent Ready

The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) in East Nusa Tenggara has confirmed that all preparations are complete for former President Joko Widodo's visit to Kupang on Saturday. The visit includes a public walk and cultural carnival, with local officials reporting high levels of public enthusiasm. The party views the visit as a significant moment of reunion and political momentum in the region.

BGN focuses SPPG development on high-stunting areas

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is prioritising the construction of Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) in regions with high stunting rates to support the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The agency cites data showing 40% of the population in the lowest economic quintiles suffer from caloric and protein deficiency. The government plans to integrate population data by name and address to ensure the programme's precise targeting and measure its health impact.

Creative Economy Ministry Drafts Guidelines for AI Utilisation in the Sector

Indonesia's Ministry of Creative Economy is developing guidelines for the use of artificial intelligence across its 21 sub-sectors. The initiative follows a presidential regulation on the creative economy master plan and aims to translate national AI policies into sectoral implementation. The ministry will also focus on AI readiness assessments, sandboxes, and literacy programmes for creative industry players.

National Zikir and Prayer Event at Monas Open to Public

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has announced that the National Zikir and Prayer event at Monas, Jakarta, on 1 August 2026, will be open to the public. The gathering, featuring Habib Syech bin Abdul Qodir Assegaf and interfaith leaders, aims to mark the month of independence with a spirit of unity. The event will include prayers from six official religions and is intended to strengthen interfaith brotherhood.

KPK Arrests Pemalang Regent, NasDem Laments Regional Heads' Lack of Self-Awareness

NasDem Party official Ujang Bey has expressed dismay over the recent arrest of Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), noting it comes just days after a similar operation. He urged regional heads to learn from previous cases and exercise restraint, while revealing that the House of Representatives Commission II plans to meet with the Home Affairs Ministry to address the spate of corruption arrests. The KPK seized over Rp 2 billion in cash during the operation and detained 21 individuals.

AI-Powered Smart Mattress Enters Indonesia, Local Production Under Review

DeRUCCI and Duta Abadi Primantara (DAP) have launched AI-powered smart mattresses in Indonesia through a new joint venture, PT Duta DeRUCCI Indonesia. The partnership includes plans to explore local assembly and production to meet domestic component level requirements. The launch introduces a new premium category to the Indonesian mattress market, with the company initially focusing on market education and retail expansion in Jakarta.

Kepulauan Seribu Government Builds Seawater Processing Facility for Clean Water

The Kepulauan Seribu Regency administration, in partnership with The Antheia Project, has commenced construction of a Sea Water Reverse Osmosis (SWRO) facility on Harapan Island to convert seawater into clean water. The initiative aims to improve access to potable water for residents, addressing challenges exacerbated by the dry season and the El Niño phenomenon. The project represents a collaborative effort to ensure long-term water availability beyond reliance on the regional budget.

US and Saudi Arabia Strike Iran Proxies in Iraq

The United States and Saudi Arabia have conducted joint airstrikes targeting Iranian proxy forces in Iraq, marking a significant escalation and Riyadh's direct military involvement in the conflict. The operation was a response to over 30 drone attacks attributed to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, raising fears of a wider regional war. Analysts suggest the Saudi participation signals a new willingness to confront Iranian-backed militias and could pave the way for expanded US military access in the kingdom.

Isuzu Boss Reveals After-Sales Strategy as Commercial Vehicle Sales Surge

PT Isuzu Astra Motor Indonesia is shifting its focus to after-sales service and fleet uptime to sustain growth amid a surge in commercial vehicle sales. The company reported an 18.89% increase in sales during the first half of 2026, driven by strong demand for the Traga and ELF models. Isuzu is expanding its service network and offering maintenance contracts to ensure customer fleets remain operational.

Malaysian National Caught Smuggling 1kg of Meth in Rectum and Corset at Lombok Airport

A Malaysian man was arrested at Lombok's international airport for attempting to smuggle nearly one kilogram of methamphetamine concealed in a body corset and his rectum. The suspect, Mohd Anwar, claimed he was promised RM9,000 by an individual named Ahmad Dhani to transport the drugs from Malaysia. Authorities later arrested a local man in Mataram who was allegedly tasked with collecting the narcotics for a fee of Rp4 million.

Prabowo Urges Young Civil Servants to Reject Convoluted Bureaucracy

President Prabowo Subianto has called on newly graduated civil servants to serve the public with speed and integrity, explicitly rejecting convoluted bureaucracy. Speaking at the IPDN graduation ceremony, he stressed that the people demand honest, disciplined, and corruption-free service. The President also reiterated his dissatisfaction with the current pace of bureaucratic reform, insisting that public service must be efficient and prioritise the people's interests over personal or group agendas.

Kadin Jabar Heralds Legok Nangka PSEL Groundbreaking as Milestone for Green Investment

The West Java Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin Jabar) has welcomed the groundbreaking of the Legok Nangka Waste-to-Energy Plant (PSEL) as a concrete step towards accelerating green investment in the region. The project, attended by government officials and international partners, is expected to address waste issues in Greater Bandung while generating clean energy. Kadin Jabar Chairman Almer Faiq Rusydi emphasised the chamber's commitment to ensuring a conducive investment climate and legal certainty for strategic projects.

Toddler in Makassar Abducted, Allegedly Used as Collateral for Online Arisan Debt

Police in Makassar have arrested three suspects for the abduction of a two-year-old boy, who was allegedly taken as collateral over a troubled online arisan scheme. The child was forcibly taken from his home in Tamalate district and held in Pangkep Regency. Two female suspects were not detained due to their advanced pregnancies, on humanitarian grounds.

IHSG Closes Lower, Weighed Down by Global and Domestic Sentiment

The Indonesian Composite Index (IHSG) weakened on Wednesday, pressured by a mix of external geopolitical tensions and domestic monetary policy uncertainty. Renewed conflict between the US and Iran, alongside market caution ahead of the Federal Reserve's policy decision, dampened global risk appetite. Domestically, the sudden resignation of the central bank governor has drawn scrutiny from international rating agencies, adding to investor wariness.

Gunungkidul Faces Drought, Yogyakarta BPBD Admits No Budget for Water Distribution

The Yogyakarta Special Region's disaster mitigation agency (BPBD DIY) has acknowledged it has no specific budget allocated for clean water distribution in 2026, despite ongoing drought conditions in areas like Gunungkidul. Officials are relying on district-level budgets, potential reallocation of unexpected expenditure funds, and coordination with the central government to manage the crisis. The regional secretary confirmed that contingency funds remain available and that long-term solutions, including rainwater harvesting and reservoir construction, are being explored.

Car Smash-and-Grab Thief in West Jakarta Steals Rp 1.2 Billion, Suspect Arrested

A thief in Kalideres, West Jakarta, stole Rp 1.2 billion in cash from a car by smashing its window after the victim's tyre was deliberately punctured. The incident occurred on 9 June 2026 after the victim had withdrawn the money from a bank. Police arrested a suspect at his home in Bogor Regency on 17 June 2026 and recovered Rp 200 million in cash along with other evidence.

Prabowo Raises Performance Allowances for TNI Soldiers and Defence Ministry Staff

President Prabowo Subianto has increased the performance allowances for Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) personnel and Ministry of Defence employees through new presidential regulations. The policy is intended as government recognition of bureaucratic reform and improved performance, marking the first such increase for the ministry and TNI since 2018. Officials stated the raise aims to boost professionalism and accountability in safeguarding state sovereignty.

BRIN proposes virtual power plant for IKN to achieve NZE 2045

The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has proposed implementing a Virtual Power Plant (VPP) system in Nusantara Capital City (IKN) to meet its net zero emission target by 2045. The scheme would allow buildings with clean energy sources, such as rooftop solar panels, to share excess power across different clusters, potentially reducing reliance on fossil fuel plants by 45 to 55 per cent. Researchers believe this approach could also foster a new electricity business model where operators facilitate energy trading between communities.