Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 29 July 2026

Showing 651-700 of 1,531 articles

Zulhas Accelerates Overhaul of 13,000 Nutrition Service Units, Prioritising High-Stunting Regions

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan has announced a plan to accelerate the restructuring of more than 13,000 nutritional service units across Indonesia. Regions with high stunting rates, such as Papua Pegunungan and Nusa Tenggara Timur, are targeted for completion within one month. The initiative also includes updating data for 63 million beneficiaries and repositioning targets for the free nutritious meal programme.

Myanmar's Military Violence Escalates, Massacres of Civilians Reported

Violence in Myanmar has sharply worsened following a military command restructuring in March, with the junta intensifying ground operations and aerial bombing campaigns against civilians. The Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED) reports over 450 civilian deaths in mass killings during the first half of 2026, even as the new government seeks to expand regional diplomacy. The escalation comes after Min Aung Hlaing transitioned from military chief to civilian president, with the junta focusing on consolidating political control.

Legok Nangka PSEL to boost waste management, clean energy: Ministry

The Indonesian government has broken ground on the Legok Nangka waste-to-energy plant in West Java, a major infrastructure project designed to process 2,000 tonnes of waste daily and generate 40.79 megawatts of electricity. The US$400 million facility aims to address the nation's mounting waste crisis, where over 20 million tonnes remain unmanaged annually, while advancing renewable energy goals under Presidential Regulation Number 109 of 2025. Once operational by the end of 2029, the project is expected to serve as a national model for similar waste-to-energy developments and significantly reduce carbon emissions.

PWI Withdraws Report Against Hotman Paris, Metro Jaya Police Halt Investigation

The Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) has officially withdrawn its police report against prominent lawyer Hotman Paris Hutapea, prompting the Metro Jaya Regional Police to begin the process of discontinuing the investigation. The withdrawal follows a mediation session facilitated by Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, where Hotman Paris offered a sincere apology. PWI accepted the apology and opted to resolve the alleged defamation case through restorative justice.

KPK Examines Witnesses in Pemalang Regent Sting Operation at Local Police Station

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is questioning witnesses at the Pemalang Police station in Central Java as part of an investigation into a sting operation involving the Regent of Pemalang, Anom Widiyantoro. The anti-graft body has also sealed several locations, including the office of the Head of Public Works and Spatial Planning, to secure evidence. Authorities have not yet disclosed the number or identities of the witnesses being examined.

Malioboro Sign Claimed by Unscrupulous Photographers, Tourists Asked to Pay for Photos

Tourists visiting Yogyakarta's iconic Malioboro area have complained of being asked to pay by local photographers to take pictures with the official street sign. The photographers allegedly claimed the government-installed sign as their personal property. The Yogyakarta Special Region Tourism Office has expressed regret over the incident and is coordinating with city authorities to provide guidance to the photographers to ensure visitor comfort.

AIPNI East Java Prepares Internationally Standardised Nurses

The Association of Indonesian Nurse Education Institutions (AIPNI) in East Java is accelerating the internationalisation of nursing education to meet global demand. Only 10 per cent of the region's 62 nursing institutions currently apply an international curriculum, with language proficiency identified as the main barrier. The initiative aims to align graduate competencies with overseas job markets, particularly in the Middle East, while ensuring equitable distribution of nurses across Indonesia.

Iran to Close Strait of Hormuz to Countries Supporting US Asset Seizure

Iran has threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz to vessels from nations and companies backing a US proposal to seize frozen Iranian assets. The warning, issued by a senior Iranian military spokesman, escalates tensions following recent US military actions and a renewed blockade on Iranian ports. The move underscores the strategic importance of the vital shipping lane amid ongoing confrontations between Tehran and Washington.

East Java Education Office Finalises Preparations for 2026 TKA and National Assessment for 447,000 Students

The East Java Education Office is finalising preparations for the 2026 Academic Competency Test (TKA) and National Assessment, which will involve 447,705 students from 4,073 schools. The office has evaluated previous results and is focusing on improving literacy and numeracy competencies through teacher training and digital platforms. Strategies include replicating best practices from high-performing schools and enhancing the use of technology in classrooms to boost overall educational quality.

AHY: Patriot Expedition Field Data to Form Basis of Transmigration Economic Policy

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) has stated that field data gathered by the Patriot Expedition Team will underpin economic development policies for Indonesia's transmigration areas. The empirical data is intended to map the potential, infrastructure constraints, and business opportunities across 154 transmigration zones, many of which suffer from limited connectivity. The initiative involves 1,476 participants from universities who will conduct four months of research to ensure central government policies are aligned with actual local conditions and needs.

Profile of Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro: From BUMN Career to KPK Sting Operation

Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro, a former state-owned enterprise executive, has been arrested by Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in a sting operation. The technocrat, who previously held a long career at PT Wijaya Karya, is being investigated for alleged bribery related to projects and the buying and selling of positions within the Pemalang regency government. The KPK seized over Rp2 billion in cash during the operation.

Danantara Joins KSSK Meetings, Purbaya: It Has No Voting Rights

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has clarified that the Danantara investment authority will participate in Financial System Stability Committee (KSSK) meetings solely as an advisor without voting rights. Danantara's involvement is intended to provide real-world business insights to support more targeted national policy. Decision-making remains exclusively with the core KSSK members: the Ministry of Finance, Bank Indonesia, the Financial Services Authority, and the Deposit Insurance Corporation.

Lampung Police Destroy Narcotics and Illegal Firearms Evidence

The Lampung Regional Police destroyed a significant cache of narcotics and illegal firearms seized between January and July 2026. The destroyed evidence included 119.1 kg of crystal methamphetamine, 58.2 kg of cannabis, and over 35,000 ecstasy pills, with an estimated street value of IDR 264.9 billion. Authorities also received 166 voluntarily surrendered illegal homemade firearms as part of a broader campaign to enhance public safety and support the President's legal reform agenda.

BSI Bullion Customers Surge 700 Percent in First Half of 2026

PT Bank Syariah Indonesia Tbk (BSI) reported a 700 percent year-on-year surge in its bullion service customers, reaching over 1.3 million by June 2026. The rapid growth in gold trading volumes also propelled fee-based income from the gold business up by 712 percent. The bank aims to make gold investment more accessible and secure, particularly through its BYOND app which allows transactions starting from IDR 50,000.

Transmigration Ministry Allocates Rp226 Billion for Patriot Transmigration Programme

Indonesia's Ministry of Transmigration has earmarked Rp226 billion, or 35 percent of its total budget, for the 2026 Patriot Transmigration programme. The funds will support research, mentoring, and innovation by university teams aimed at transforming transmigration areas. The initiative seeks to develop new economic potential while the remaining budget focuses on revitalising existing settlements and resolving land disputes.

Four East Kalimantan Traditions Pass National Intangible Cultural Heritage Assessment

Four local traditions from East Kalimantan have successfully passed the national assessment to be recognised as Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2026. The designation brings the province's total to 71 officially recognised cultural works, reinforcing its position among the top regions in Indonesia's Cultural Advancement Index. The provincial government aims to leverage this recognition to boost educational tourism and ensure the preservation of these traditions.

JCI Under Pressure Again, Closes at 6,100 in Afternoon Session II Trading

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) extended its losses on Wednesday, closing down 0.49 percent at 6,100.50 amid persistent selling pressure. The index fluctuated throughout the day, touching an intraday low of 6,029.32 before recovering slightly to hold above the 6,100 level. The decline follows a 0.89 percent correction in the previous session, reflecting ongoing caution in the Indonesian equity market.

Vietnam's Deputy Agriculture Minister Arrested in Durian Export Scandal

Vietnamese police have arrested Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Hoang Trung and three others over alleged corruption in durian exports to China. The officials are accused of taking bribes and implementing illegal policies, including creating 'sub-licences', to extract illicit profits. The scandal has reportedly caused serious losses to state coffers and damaged the reputation of Vietnam's agricultural sector.

Medan Sub-District Head Sanctioned for Mocking Resident's Complaint About Street Lighting

A sub-district head in Medan has been sanctioned after a video of her mocking a resident who complained about broken streetlights went viral. The Medan Inspectorate found Syerly, the Lurah of Paya Pasir, guilty of violating the ASN code of ethics and recommended a light disciplinary punishment. The city government stated the action was taken to uphold the integrity and professionalism of its civil servants.

Saudi Arabia claims attack in Iraq as self-defence

Saudi Arabia has stated that its overnight strikes on Iran-backed targets in Iraq were conducted in self-defence, warning of further military action if attacks on the kingdom persist. The joint operation with US CENTCOM targeted sites linked to assaults on Saudi oil facilities, invoking Article 51 of the UN Charter. Riyadh accused the groups of escalating tensions despite its efforts to promote regional stability.

Importers Must Absorb Local Salt That Meets Standards

The Indonesian government is being urged to tie salt import permits to mandatory absorption of locally produced salt that meets quality standards. This push aims to protect domestic producers and align import policies with the national target of achieving salt self-sufficiency by 2027. Economists warn that without such obligations, rising local production may lack market certainty.

AHY Affirms Sustainable Infrastructure as a Development Paradigm

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) has stated that infrastructure development must be the primary instrument for achieving inclusive economic growth while preserving the environment. He outlined a three-pillar strategy focusing on economic progress, public welfare, and environmental sustainability. AHY stressed that infrastructure projects should be measured by their societal benefits and resilience to climate change, not just their quantity.

Four Dealers Arrested as Police Dismantle Drug Network in Karangasem

Police in Karangasem, Bali, have arrested four suspected drug dealers and seized 1.52 grammes of crystal methamphetamine. The operation uncovered a supply chain stretching from Badung to Tabanan. The suspects face up to 20 years in prison under Indonesia's narcotics laws.

Hundreds of Palm Oil and Rubber Cooperatives in South Kalimantan Ready to Collaborate with KDMP

Hundreds of plantation cooperatives in South Kalimantan are preparing to partner with the government's Desa Merah Putih (KDMP) cooperative programme. The initiative aims to leverage existing large-scale palm oil and rubber cooperatives, some with monthly turnovers in the billions of rupiah, to strengthen rural economies. The collaboration will cover upstream supply and downstream production and marketing.

DSI Defendant Files Exception, Requests Operational Accountability Aligned with Authority

Mery Yuniarni, a defendant in the PT Dana Syariah Indonesia (DSI) case, has filed an exception arguing that legal responsibility should be tied to her tenure and authority. She claims that the company's fundraising and lending activities, which form the basis of the charges, commenced only after her resignation from the board. The defence has also requested the court to compel the disclosure of all relevant corporate documents to objectively determine who held operational control at the time of the alleged offences.

Flotilla Volunteers Report Alleged Torture to Attorney General's Office

Nine Indonesian volunteers from the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) 2.0 have reported allegations of torture and kidnapping to the Indonesian Attorney General's Office. The volunteers claim they were subjected to violence during a four-day detention by Israeli authorities after their humanitarian vessel was intercepted near Cyprus. The report includes photographic evidence of injuries, medical records, and a chronology of events.

Damaged School in Grobogan Linked to Free Nutritious Meal Programme, BGN Head: No Connection

The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sudaryono, has dismissed claims linking a dilapidated primary school in Grobogan, Central Java, to the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. He stated the school was already damaged before the programme began and confirmed that President Prabowo Subianto has ordered immediate repairs. Sudaryono also highlighted that the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is set to repair 70,000 damaged schools this year, up from 16,000 in 2025.

Reuters Sources Reveal Rift Between Perry Warjiyo and Purbaya Before Central Bank Governor's Resignation

Tensions between Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo and Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa over economic growth strategy preceded Warjiyo's sudden resignation, according to Reuters sources. The dispute reportedly centred on liquidity policy, with the finance minister favouring abundant liquidity while the central bank focused on managing the rupiah exchange rate. The disagreement had been simmering for months before the governor stepped down for what officials described as 'personal reasons'.

Dempo Hiking Trail Declared Safe After Evacuation of Armed Hiker

The hiking route on Mount Dempo in South Sumatra has been declared safe again after authorities evacuated a hiker who was carrying an air rifle and making threats. The individual, identified as RD, was found and taken into custody without incident by a joint rescue team. Officials have confirmed the trail is now secure for climbers.

Pemalang Regent's Wife Also Arrested in KPK Sting Operation

The wife of Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro, Noor Faizah Maenofie, was among those detained during a Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) sting operation. She was taken to the Pemalang Police Station for questioning alongside her husband and 20 other individuals. The KPK has 24 hours to determine the legal status of all parties involved.

Garuda Bridge Program links 7,371 villages across Indonesia: Gov't

The Indonesian government's Garuda Bridge Program has connected 7,371 villages and benefited over 4.2 million people by completing 1,416 bridges, nearly half its target. The initiative has significantly reduced travel times and improved access to schools, health facilities, and markets. The programme is part of a broader effort to address infrastructure gaps and boost economic activity in remote and disaster-affected regions.

Indonesia and Europe strengthen sustainable transport partnership

Indonesia and European partners have reaffirmed their commitment to developing sustainable, high-quality transport infrastructure through a renewed partnership. The collaboration, highlighted during the Indonesia-Europe Roundtable on Sustainable Transport Development in Jakarta, includes significant financial and technical support from Germany and the EU. A key example is the €236 million German-funded project to modernise and electrify the Surabaya-Sidoarjo commuter line.

Golkar Legislator on Asset Forfeiture Bill: There Must Be No Abuse of Power

A senior Golkar Party legislator has stressed that the drafting of Indonesia's Asset Forfeiture Bill must carefully balance state interests with the protection of individual rights to prevent any abuse of power. Soedeson Tandra, a member of House Commission III, stated that the deliberation is proceeding intensively with a focus on harmonising the bill with existing criminal law frameworks. The bill, a legislative priority for 2026, aims to strengthen law enforcement's ability to recover assets from criminal activities while ensuring constitutional safeguards.

Social Affairs Ministry Supports Family of Security Guard Found Dead at Jatiluhur Reservoir

The Ministry of Social Affairs has provided assistance and psychosocial support to the family of a security guard who died at the Jatiluhur Reservoir in West Java. The ministry has covered funeral expenses and is assessing the family's needs, including educational support for the deceased's two children. Further interventions, including potential entrepreneurship aid for the widow, are being planned to ensure the family's long-term welfare.

Legislator Backs Ban on Subsidised Goods for Free Meals, Demands Quality Assurance

A House of Representatives member has endorsed the National Nutrition Agency's prohibition on using subsidised cooking oil, LPG, and rice in the free nutritious meal programme. He stressed that the policy must be accompanied by clear technical guidelines to prevent a decline in meal quality. The legislator also called for robust monitoring systems and greater use of local produce to support regional economies.

UK, France Refuse Hormuz Patrols Before Sustainable Ceasefire

The United Kingdom and France have declined to support a US-led maritime patrol initiative in the Strait of Hormuz until a sustainable ceasefire is achieved in the conflict with Iran. The US defence secretary discussed the proposed joint patrols with his British and French counterparts, but European allies are conditioning their involvement on de-escalation. The ongoing tensions have effectively blockaded the critical energy chokepoint, driving up global fuel and industrial product prices.

Indonesia's Tax Receivables Revealed to Reach Rp 83.61 Trillion in 2025

Indonesia's total gross tax receivables climbed to Rp 83.61 trillion in 2025, according to an audited report from the Directorate General of Taxes. More than half of this amount, or Rp 47.41 trillion, is classified as uncollectible, raising concerns about the state's ability to recover these funds. The majority of the outstanding debt is over one year old, with a significant portion aged more than five years.

Legal Politics at a Crossroads: Implementation of the New Criminal Code Must Prioritise Justice

Indonesia's new Criminal Code (KUHP), effective from 2 January 2026, marks a historic departure from its colonial-era predecessor. While the reform represents a strategic effort to align criminal law with national values, its success hinges on consistent implementation, robust human rights protections, and clear interpretation to prevent abuse of authority. The transition demands strong institutional capacity and ongoing public scrutiny to ensure the law delivers genuine justice rather than merely serving as an instrument of power.

IPDN Graduates Urged to Be Present When People Face Hardship

President Prabowo Subianto has called on 1,204 newly graduated civil servants from the Institute of Domestic Governance (IPDN) to go beyond administrative duties and actively serve communities in distress. Speaking at their inauguration in Sumedang, West Java, he emphasised that their oath demands sacrifice, discipline, and a commitment to being a beacon of hope for the people. The graduates were reminded that their role is crucial as Indonesia aims to become a top-four global economy in the coming decades.

BPKP Reveals Calculation of Rp 992.8 Billion State Loss in LPEI Case

The Financial and Development Supervisory Agency (BPKP) has detailed how state losses of Rp 992.8 billion were incurred in an alleged corruption case involving export financing by the Indonesian Export Financing Institution (LPEI). An auditor told a Jakarta corruption court that the funds were disbursed to PT Tebo Indah and PT Pratama Agro Sawit despite the companies failing to meet credit requirements. The court heard that the loans were partly secured by fictitious contracts and used to pay affiliated companies.

Sudaryono Bans BGN Officials from Secret Meetings with MBG Partners

The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sudaryono, has strictly prohibited all agency officials from holding undisclosed meetings with stakeholders of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. He emphasised that all communications must be channelled through the official Integrated Service Centre to prevent conflicts of interest and negative public perception. The policy aims to ensure transparency and avoid any suspicion of unethical practices within the agency.

PSI NTT Reveals Agenda for Jokowi's Visit to Kupang

The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) in East Nusa Tenggara has finalised preparations for former President Joko Widodo's visit to Kupang on 1 August 2026. The visit includes a public walk and a cultural carnival, alongside an internal party coordination meeting. Local enthusiasm is reportedly high, with the visit seen as a moment to reconnect with the community.

National Police Chief's Religious Tourism Programme Receives Positive Welcome

The Op. Tombak Mataniari Sirait Association of Greater Jakarta has expressed appreciation for National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo's initiative to send the wife of the late child rights activist Arist Merdeka Sirait on a Holyland pilgrimage. The trip is part of the police force's 80th Bhayangkara Day commemorations, which also include social activities such as home renovations and free umrah trips. The association views the programme as a meaningful tribute to the late activist's dedication to children's and workers' rights.

BI Affirms Commitment to Supporting Economic Growth

Bank Indonesia has reiterated its commitment to bolstering economic growth through a strategic mix of monetary policies. The central bank is intensifying efforts to stabilise the rupiah amid global uncertainties, utilising instruments such as triple intervention and SRBI. It is also strengthening macroprudential liquidity incentives and accelerating payment system digitalisation to support priority sectors.

North Jakarta and Thousand Islands Fire Service Educates Students on Fire Preparedness

The North Jakarta and Thousand Islands Fire and Rescue Service has provided fire safety education to students on Untung Jawa Island. The initiative, part of a school orientation programme, aims to instil early awareness of fire hazards and emergency response procedures. Students received instruction on fire causes, evacuation steps, and hands-on training with portable fire extinguishers.

KPK begins summoning witnesses in case of suspended Sukoharjo Regent Etik Suryani

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has commenced witness examinations in the graft case involving suspended Sukoharjo Regent Etik Suryani. Eight witnesses, including the acting regent and several agency heads, are being questioned over an alleged extortion scheme. The KPK suspects Etik Suryani continued a corrupt tradition inherited from her husband and predecessor, involving kickbacks from local government apparatus.

KPK Takes Seven Pemalang Officials to Jakarta After 12-Hour Interrogation

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has transferred seven officials from the Pemalang Regency Government to Jakarta following an intensive 12-hour questioning session. The officials, including strategic personnel and close associates of the regent, were examined at the Pemalang Police Station regarding an ongoing corruption case. No official details have been released concerning their legal status or the specifics of the investigation.

Digital Gold vs Physical Gold: Which Is More Profitable for Investment?

As gold remains a popular hedge, investors now face a choice between traditional physical bars and modern digital gold. Digital gold offers lower entry costs and online convenience, while physical gold provides tangible ownership. Understanding the differences in ownership, storage, and liquidity is key to aligning the investment with one's financial goals.

Post-Disaster Recovery in Bireuen Accelerated

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) has distributed 1,000 social aid packages to communities affected by a disaster in Bireuen Regency, Aceh. The initiative aims to support basic needs and strengthen coordination with local government to accelerate post-disaster recovery. The police emphasised their commitment to humanitarian service and community presence during the recovery process.

BNSI and IGIP Morowali Strengthen Indonesia's Position as an Electric Vehicle Battery Industry Hub

PT Bahodopi Nickel Smelting Indonesia (BNSI) has been officially inaugurated at the Indonesia Green Industrial Park in Morowali, marking a significant step in nickel downstreaming using HPAL technology. The project, a consortium involving South Korean, Chinese, and Indonesian firms, is set to produce mixed hydroxide precipitate for EV batteries. The government highlighted the project's role in attracting quality investment, with bonded zone facilities supporting exports valued at Rp236 trillion in the first half of 2026.