Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 29 July 2026

Showing 701-750 of 1,531 articles

Bulog Lampung builds 120-tonne capacity rice milling unit in East Lampung

State logistics company Perum Bulog has commenced construction of a modern Rice Milling Unit (RMU) in East Lampung Regency, featuring a 120-tonne grain drying capacity. The facility aims to enhance post-harvest processing efficiency, strengthen the government's rice reserves, and provide market certainty for local farmers. The project, part of a national food security infrastructure programme, is expected to begin operations by mid-2027.

Honda's diminutive Super-ONE electric car officially launches in Indonesia, limited to 100 units

Honda has officially launched the Super-ONE, a compact battery electric vehicle, in Indonesia at the GIIAS 2026 motor show, marking its Southeast Asian debut. Only 100 units have been allocated for the Indonesian market this year, despite strong demand of over 12,000 orders in Japan. The car is built on a modified N-Series platform and offers a WLTP range of up to 274 kilometres.

House Commission II: Discussion on Election Law Revision to Continue During Recess

A senior Indonesian legislator has confirmed that deliberations on the revision of the Election Law will persist throughout the parliamentary recess. Ahmad Doli Kurnia, Deputy Chairman of the House Legislation Body, stressed the need for in-depth public consultation and inter-party communication on crucial electoral issues. The proposed amendments aim to strengthen the electoral system, including reviewing the voting mechanism, legislative thresholds, and the recruitment of election organisers.

Viral Video of Man Accused of Theft and Beaten by Mob in Bogor: Police Clarify Misunderstanding

A video showing a man being assaulted by a mob in Tanah Sareal, Bogor, after being accused of theft has gone viral. Police have clarified that the incident was a misunderstanding, explaining the man was merely loitering with friends and was not involved in any criminal activity. The victim was handed over to authorities after a local neighbourhood leader intervened to prevent further violence.

President Prabowo Applauds IPDN Recruitment as Proof of Meritocracy

President Prabowo Subianto has praised the recruitment process for the Institute of Domestic Governance (IPDN), highlighting that the top ten graduates this year all came from humble economic backgrounds. He stated this serves as evidence that a merit-based system provides equal opportunities for all Indonesian citizens to excel and serve the nation. The President urged the newly inaugurated civil servants to uphold integrity and dedicate themselves to the people.

Qodari: Social Protection Digitalisation Key to Fair Distribution of Social Assistance

Head of the Government Communication Body (Bakom) Muhammad Qodari has stated that the digitalisation of social protection is crucial for ensuring the fair distribution of social assistance. He noted that the programme aims to ensure the substantial social protection budget, nearly 30 percent of the state budget, reaches the right targets. Surabaya has achieved a 99.82 percent data collection rate, with Qodari highlighting that around 51,000 previously excluded families are now receiving justice through the system.

VP Gibran welcomes oversight as civic coalition forms "shadow cabinet"

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has welcomed the formation of a "shadow cabinet" by a civil society coalition, viewing it as a healthy expression of democracy. He stated that objective, data-driven, and solution-oriented scrutiny is valuable input for improving the Red and White Cabinet's performance. The initiative, launched on 17 July 2026, involves 15 individuals monitoring various government portfolios to ensure policies benefit the public.

Nutrition of Santri and the Nation's Future: Why Food in Pesantren is Crucial

The nutritional intake of students in Indonesian Islamic boarding schools, often limited to rice, tempeh, and occasional eggs, may be critically undermining their cognitive development and the nation's human capital potential. Scientific evidence links deficiencies in protein, iron, zinc, and DHA to reduced concentration, memory, and motivation, directly impacting the students' ability to learn and memorise. This article argues that the quality of food in pesantren kitchens is a neglected but fundamental factor in shaping Indonesia's future generation.

Revealed: The Reasons Investors Are Dumping Asian Tech Stocks

Asian technology stocks, particularly semiconductor manufacturers, experienced a sharp sell-off driven by a combination of factors. These include the rise of Chinese chip competitors, concerns over Nvidia's funding plans for an OpenAI project, and broader anxiety about massive AI infrastructure spending by US tech giants. Analysts suggest the correction may present a buying opportunity for quality stocks.

KCIC Warns of Whoosh Ticket Scams via WhatsApp

PT Kereta Cepat Indonesia China (KCIC) has issued a public warning about fraudulent schemes involving the sale of Whoosh high-speed train tickets through unofficial WhatsApp numbers. Scammers are using the company's logo and schedule to deceive victims into transferring payments to personal bank accounts. KCIC urges the public to only use official booking channels and to report any suspicious activity immediately.

Yusril Urges Police to Boost Security to Prevent Vigilantism

Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra has called on the National Police to enhance public security to curb rising street crime and prevent vigilante actions. He highlighted recent mob killings in Bali and Morowali as serious failures that could escalate into human rights violations if left unchecked. A cross-ministerial coordination meeting is planned to develop a comprehensive, rights-based approach to law enforcement and public protection.

Attorney General's Office to Establish Seven New District Prosecutors' Offices

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office is preparing to operationalise seven newly formed District Prosecutors' Offices following a presidential regulation. The initiative includes appointing officials and securing temporary office infrastructure to ensure the new units can function immediately. The establishment aims to strengthen the criminal justice system and improve legal services in regions that now have their own local governments.

Foreign Net Sell Reaches IDR 1 Trillion, Check the Most Sold-Off Shares on Tuesday (28/7)

Foreign investors continued their selling spree on the Indonesia Stock Exchange, recording a net sell of IDR 1.07 trillion on Tuesday, bringing the weekly total to IDR 4.29 trillion. The sustained capital outflow contributed to a 0.89% decline in the Jakarta Composite Index, which closed at 6,130.58. Banking heavyweights Bank Mandiri and Bank Rakyat Indonesia led the list of most sold-off shares, alongside Nusantara Sawit Sejahtera.

Deputy Minister Calls on Academics to Become Problem Solvers in Transmigration Areas

Deputy Minister for Higher Education, Science, and Technology Fauzan has urged universities to transform into integral parts of the development ecosystem, specifically to solve problems in transmigration areas. He highlighted that nearly ten million students and hundreds of thousands of lecturers represent a strategic asset that should be leveraged to deliver tangible societal impact. The ministry is promoting a shift from independent institutional achievement towards collaborative networks, with existing university consortia already addressing issues like stunting and tuberculosis in various regions.

Anindya Bakrie Praises NTB's Economy, Highlights Salt Potential

Kadin Chairman Anindya Bakrie has lauded West Nusa Tenggara's robust economic growth, noting its potential to attract investment and develop key industries like salt. He highlighted the region's 13.24% growth rate and the high purity of its local salt, which can compete internationally. Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal emphasised the need to strengthen productive sectors such as agriculture to reduce reliance on mining.

Indonesia has 3,687 GW renewable energy potential: Ministry

Indonesia possesses vast renewable energy potential of 3,687 gigawatts, yet its installed capacity stood at just 16.32 GW as of mid-2026, highlighting a significant gap that the government is keen to close. Plans are underway to build 69.5 GW of new power plants, with 43.6 GW from renewables, alongside major grid expansions to electrify remote villages and transmigration areas. The strategy is part of a broader push for energy self-sufficiency, which also includes boosting oil and gas lifting, accelerating electric vehicle adoption, and increasing national energy reserves.

Pastor in Kupang Arrested for Alleged Child Sexual Abuse

A 43-year-old pastor has been arrested in Amarasi, Kupang Regency, on suspicion of sexually abusing a child. The arrest was carried out by the East Nusa Tenggara Police's Women and Children Protection Directorate. Authorities have stated their commitment to thoroughly investigating the case and providing maximum protection for vulnerable groups.

Polda Metro Jaya Engages Mass Organisations to Strengthen 'Jaga Jakarta' Programme

The Metro Jaya Regional Police have held a meeting with various mass organisations to bolster collaboration under the 'Jaga Jakarta' security programme. The initiative aims to create a safe and comfortable environment by involving community elements in maintaining stability and preventing conflict. Police officials emphasised the importance of synergy between law enforcement and civil society groups to counter provocation and unverified information.

Witness Says Lodewyk Pusung Lacked Authority to Appoint MBG Programme Foundations

A former subordinate of ex-Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) Lodewyk Pusung testified that Pusung had no authority to appoint partner foundations for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The testimony was given during a pretrial hearing at the South Jakarta District Court, where Pusung is challenging his suspect status in an alleged corruption case. Bagus Artiadi Soewardi also claimed there were attempts to misuse Pusung's name to solicit money, which Pusung immediately rejected upon learning of them.

Energy Ministry Drafts National Standard for Oil and Gas Drilling Equipment to Curb Imports

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is formulating a new national standard (SNI) for upstream oil and gas drilling and production rigs to reduce reliance on foreign certification and imported components. The initiative aims to streamline operations by eliminating lengthy international verification processes, which have been a major cause of downtime. State-owned arms manufacturer PT Pindad has confirmed its readiness to produce key rig components, supporting the government's push for self-sufficiency in the strategic energy sector.

Iraq Confirms 20 Soldiers Killed in Joint US-Saudi Air Strikes

Iraq's Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) reported that 20 of its soldiers were killed and 32 wounded in overnight air strikes by the United States and Saudi Arabia. The strikes targeted PMF facilities across seven Iraqi provinces, causing significant damage to military infrastructure. The operation was described by the US and Saudi Arabia as a defensive response to attacks on American forces and Saudi energy facilities originating from Iraqi territory.

House Commission II: Root causes of regional heads caught in sting operations must be addressed

A senior Indonesian legislator has called for systemic reforms to tackle the underlying causes of corruption among regional heads, following the latest sting operation against the Pemalang regent. Dede Yusuf, Deputy Chairman of House Commission II, highlighted high political costs, broad authority, and low official incomes as key drivers. He urged a shift towards idea-based campaigns and a review of recruitment systems to prevent future graft.

Primary and Secondary Education Minister Urges Teachers to Love Their Students and Become Lifelong Learners

Minister Abdul Mu'ti has called on Indonesian educators to embrace their profession with joy and adopt a lifelong learning mindset. He outlined new government policies aimed at improving teacher qualifications and welfare, including a fast-track degree programme and relaxed rules on teaching hours. The initiatives are designed to enhance the quality of education by supporting teachers' professional and personal development.

South Sumatra Police Launch AMPERA 24/7 to Strengthen Public Services

The South Sumatra Regional Police (Polda Sumsel) has launched a series of digital and social innovations, including the AMPERA 24/7 application, to transform public services. The initiative, led by the Palembang Police, integrates various services into a single platform and includes community programmes such as converting water hyacinth into animal feed. The move is part of a broader commitment to implementing the National Police's 'Presisi' programme and supporting government policies on food security and economic empowerment.

Komdigi Appoints New Officials to Strengthen Digital Services with Tangible Impact

Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi) has inaugurated new senior officials to accelerate digital transformation and enhance public services. The appointments aim to make government services more accessible, transparent, and responsive to public needs. The ministry emphasised that the success of digital initiatives will be measured by tangible benefits felt by the community, not just programme rollouts.

President urges young civil servants to avoid bureaucratic red tape

President Prabowo Subianto has called on newly graduated civil servants to reject complicated bureaucracy and serve the public with integrity, honesty, and discipline. Speaking at the IPDN campus in Sumedang, he stressed that citizens judge the state through the actions of its officials, and that quality service is essential to maintaining public trust. The President inaugurated 1,204 graduates, urging them to become decisive leaders who will drive Indonesia's development.

Dasco Receives SPBUN-SGN Audience, Helps Resolve Employee Demands

Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, has facilitated a resolution between the management of PT Sinergi Gula Nusantara (SGN) and its workers' union, SPBUN-SGN. The mediation successfully reached an agreement on employee aspirations, particularly regarding bonuses and standard harmonisation. Following the breakthrough, union representatives pledged to improve performance and support national sugar self-sufficiency and energy security programmes.

Singaraja's Zero Point Officially Named Praja Mandala Singa Ambara Raja

The Buleleng Regency Government has officially named the newly revitalised Titik Nol (Zero Point) Singaraja area 'Praja Mandala Singa Ambara Raja' following a public competition. The winning name, submitted by student Kadek Dika Wirawan, symbolises an authoritative government centre inspired by the visionary leadership of Panji Sakti. The area is set to become a public space for arts and culture, with the official award ceremony to be held during the Buleleng Festival in August.

Apple Launches Official iPhone Rental Programme Starting at Under £300 per Month

Apple has introduced a new rental programme in the United States, allowing customers to lease iPhones for as little as US$17.99 per month over two years. The scheme, launched in partnership with Klarna, is seen as a strategy to offset rising device prices and lengthening consumer upgrade cycles. Analysts suggest the move could help Apple smooth out seasonal sales fluctuations and encourage more frequent device upgrades.

Pemalang Regent's Wife Transported to Jakarta Following KPK Operation

The wife of the Pemalang Regent, Noor Faizah Maenofie, has been taken to Jakarta by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) following a sting operation. She was transported alongside several other local officials, including the Regional Secretary and the Head of Public Works. The group was escorted by police to the capital after undergoing hours of questioning in Pemalang.

Bagja Hidayat Appointed as Editor-in-Chief of Tempo

Tempo magazine has appointed Bagja Hidayat as its new editor-in-chief, succeeding Setri Yasra. The handover took place at Tempo's office in South Jakarta, with Yasra moving to the board of directors. Hidayat, a veteran journalist known for his investigative work, pledged to maintain the publication's independent stance.

Golkar's Doli Kurnia Calls on Activists to Reject Anti-Criticism Stance at Book Launch

Golkar politician Ahmad Doli Kurnia Tandjung hosted a reunion of activists in Jakarta, where he launched four new books and urged openness to criticism. The event, titled 'Arena Demokrasi & Kritik' (ADK SHOW), featured testimonials from senior political figures including Akbar Tandjung and Suharso Monoarfa, who reflected on democratic values and legislative collaboration. Doli emphasised that his diverse writings represent the broad concerns of the people, not just his parliamentary commission's remit.

Lamongan Government Distributes 25,000 Litres of Clean Water to Combat Drought

The Lamongan Regency administration has begun distributing 25,000 litres of clean water to residents of Kedungkumpul Village as the region enters the dry season. The local government is also planning to dredge a village reservoir as a long-term solution to mitigate the annual water crisis. A total of 15 sub-districts have been identified as drought-prone, with 44 villages classified as critical due to limited water sources.

Labuan Bajo's Waecicu Beach Faces Environmental Emergency Amid Illegal Waste Dumping

A youth organisation has raised the alarm over severe environmental damage at Waecicu Beach in Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara, citing illegal ship docking and accumulated waste. The local government has pledged a clean-up operation ahead of Independence Day in August 2026, while the regent promises to address the issue in a high-level coordination meeting.

INA Speaks Out After Winning Lawsuit Against Kimia Farma in Singapore

The Indonesia Investment Authority (INA) has confirmed it is pursuing all available legal remedies following a successful arbitration ruling against state-owned pharmaceutical company Kimia Farma in Singapore. The dispute, which also involves China's Silk Road Fund, centres on a 2022 investment of Rp 1.86 trillion in Kimia Farma Apotek and alleged breaches of the share subscription agreement. Kimia Farma has stated it respects the Singapore International Arbitration Centre's decision and is conducting a comprehensive review to protect the company's interests.

Cilacap Regency Government: Weather Field School Strengthens Fisheries and Coastal Economy

The Cilacap Regency Government has endorsed the Weather Field School for Fishermen (SLCN) as a strategic initiative to bolster the fisheries sector and coastal economy. The programme, run by Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), aims to improve fishermen's ability to interpret weather information for safer and more productive fishing trips. Local officials have requested the training be held more frequently to cover the extensive coastline and large fishing community.

Chicken Meat Prices Surge the Most This Year, Outpacing Chillies and Rice

Chicken meat has recorded the highest price increase among food commodities in Indonesia this year, driven partly by rising demand from the government's free nutritious meal programme. While the programme has helped absorb surplus supply, production costs are also climbing, and the market faces potential pressure from new imports and the seasonal nature of school-based demand.

West Java DPRD Welcomes Legok Nangka PSEL as a Waste Management Solution

The West Java Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD) has welcomed the commencement of the Legok Nangka waste-to-energy facility, a project delayed for over two decades. The plant is expected to process 2,000 tonnes of waste daily from the Greater Bandung area, addressing the region's waste emergency. Council Chairman Buky Wibawa also urged the government to prepare supporting traffic infrastructure and advocated for waste processing machines at the village level.

Indonesia's INA ranks second in Asia for sovereign wealth governance

The Indonesia Investment Authority (INA) has achieved a 92 percent score in Global SWF's governance assessment, ranking second in Asia behind Singapore's Temasek. The score reflects strong marks in governance, sustainability, and resilience, which INA's chair says are increasingly critical for attracting global investment amid economic uncertainty. The recognition is expected to bolster international investor confidence and support Indonesia's efforts to draw more foreign capital.

Prabowo urges young bureaucrats to foster cross-sector partnerships

President Prabowo Subianto has called on newly inaugurated civil servants to prioritise cross-sector collaboration, emphasising that effective governance requires coordination with the military, police, and regional governments. He warned against arrogance and stressed that even the best-designed policies will fail without proper implementation on the ground. The address underscores the administration's focus on bureaucratic reform and national development through unified public service.

Trial Reveals Village Official Posts in Pati Priced at Rp165 Million

A corruption trial in Semarang has exposed allegations that candidates for village official positions in Pati Regency, Central Java, were forced to pay Rp165 million to secure their roles. Witnesses testified they sold assets and borrowed money to meet the demands, which were allegedly coordinated by village heads linked to the non-active regent. The non-active Pati Regent Sudewo is accused of receiving a total of Rp2.4 billion related to the village official selection process for the 2025–2026 period.

45 kg of Cloves and Mobile Phone Stolen from Buleleng Farmer, Losses Estimated at Rp 6 Million

A farmer in Buleleng, Bali, lost 45 kilograms of dried cloves and a mobile phone in a theft while he and his wife were harvesting. The stolen goods, valued at around Rp 6 million, were taken from his home in Banjar Dinas Bukit Telu. Police have visited the scene but the victim has not yet filed an official report.

Russia Issues Arrest Warrant for Telegram CEO

Russian authorities have issued an international arrest warrant for Telegram founder and CEO Pavel Durov on charges of facilitating terrorism. The FSB security service alleges the encrypted messaging platform was used by Ukrainian intelligence to recruit saboteurs and that Durov failed to remove prohibited content. Durov, who fled Russia years ago and now holds French and UAE citizenship, has long resisted Moscow's demands for user data.

US and Saudi Arabia Strike Iran-Backed Groups in Iraq

The United States and Saudi Arabia have conducted joint precision strikes against Iran-aligned militia facilities in eastern Iraq. The operation was a direct response to over 30 drone attacks on US forces and Saudi energy infrastructure within 72 hours. Iraqi militia groups condemned the strikes as a violation of sovereignty, reporting casualties and damage to official headquarters.

KPK Questions Geisz Chalifah in Kutai Kartanegara Coal Graft Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned businessman Geisz Chalifah as a witness in an ongoing investigation into alleged gratuities linked to coal production in Kutai Kartanegara. The case is connected to former Kutai Kartanegara Regent Rita Widyasari, with three local coal companies named as suspects for allegedly facilitating the receipt of bribes. The investigation has also seen the questioning of several high-profile figures, including a NasDem Party legislator and the chairman of Pemuda Pancasila.

UPN Jogja Names Five Candidates for 2026-2030 Rector Election

UPN 'Veteran' Yogyakarta has announced five candidates for the 2026-2030 rector election following an extended registration period. The selection includes four internal candidates and one from the Bandung Institute of Technology. The senate will narrow the field to three names in August before submitting them to the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology.

Health Spending at Only 2.9% of GDP, Indonesia Targets Sector Investment

Indonesia is actively seeking investment to bolster its healthcare sector, with government officials highlighting significant growth potential as current health spending stands at just 2.9% of GDP. The government is building a supporting ecosystem through digitalisation, workforce development, and infrastructure expansion, while also strengthening domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing capacity. Opportunities for collaboration span digital health, AI, genomics, and vaccine production.

Government Accelerates Construction of 15 Dams for Irrigation

The Indonesian government is fast-tracking the construction of 15 dams across the country to support irrigation for over 200,000 hectares of farmland and bolster national food security. The initiative aims to reduce agriculture's dependence on rainfall and mitigate the impacts of climate change, such as drought and flooding. The projects, requiring an estimated budget of Rp32.806 trillion, are spread across ten provinces.

Tokoh Ini Sebut Pembiayaan Hijau Harus Dijaga Integritasnya, Bukan Sekadar Label

Komisaris Independen BRI Lukmanul Khakim menekankan bahwa pertumbuhan pembiayaan hijau perbankan Indonesia yang mencapai ratusan triliun rupiah harus diimbangi dengan integritas implementasi untuk mencegah praktik greenwashing. Ia menyoroti perlunya verifikasi dampak lingkungan yang nyata serta penguatan ekosistem, termasuk digitalisasi penilaian bagi UMKM dan peningkatan kompetensi analis kredit, guna menjaga kepercayaan investor global. Indonesia dinilai perlu memperkuat tata kelola keuangan berkelanjutan agar potensi ekonomi hijau yang besar dapat terealisasi secara bertanggung jawab.

A Century After Rarud Batur: Preserving Ancestral Wisdom Amid Modern Threats

A century after the devastating 1926 eruption forced the relocation of Batur Village, the community's resilience has transformed a volcanic landscape into a thriving economic hub. However, the descendants now face a new test from rampant tourism investment and construction, which threatens their land rights and sacred sites. The centenary commemoration serves as a call to balance economic opportunity with the preservation of cultural heritage and spatial integrity.