Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 29 July 2026

Showing 901-950 of 1,531 articles

UI Professor Urges Strengthened Protections for Junior Doctors

A senior professor from the University of Indonesia has called for urgent government action to protect junior doctors following a spate of deaths among medical interns. Tjandra Yoga Aditama noted that at least six doctors in internship programmes have died since February 2026, highlighting risks from infectious diseases and psychosocial pressures. He urged the implementation of concrete policies based on WHO and ILO guidelines to prevent further fatalities among young health workers.

MUI Calls on Muslims to Win the 'Algorithm War' by Preparing Digital Mujahideen

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has urged the Muslim community to engage in an 'algorithm war' by cultivating digital mujahideen who can master artificial intelligence to spread Islamic values. The council warns that wholesome religious content risks being drowned out by a flood of unverified instant content, including illegal online loans and LGBT propaganda. MUI sees AI as both a challenge, due to deepfakes and misinformation, and an opportunity to expand the reach of Islamic outreach.

Facing Drought, Jakarta Provincial Government Ready to Conduct Cloud Seeding

The Jakarta provincial government has announced its readiness to conduct weather modification operations, or cloud seeding, to combat potential drought during the dry season. Governor Pramono Anung stated that the city is prepared to coordinate with the meteorology agency to induce rain if needed, noting that the capital has seen no rainfall for nearly three weeks. However, the BMKG has cautioned that such operations cannot create rain from clear skies and depend entirely on the availability of suitable rain clouds for seeding.

Customs Destroys 631,000 Illegal Cigarettes and 25.6 Litres of Alcoholic Beverages Worth Billions

The Maluku Regional Customs Office, together with Ternate Customs, has destroyed over 631,000 illegal cigarettes and 25.6 litres of illicit alcoholic beverages. The total value of the destroyed goods is estimated at Rp 1.18 billion, with potential state revenue losses of nearly Rp 698 million successfully safeguarded. Officials emphasised that the destruction demonstrates transparency and a firm commitment to combating the circulation of illegal excisable goods, which harm both state finances and legitimate businesses.

Resolving the Classic Problem of Compiling Electoral Rolls in Indonesia

The Indonesian General Elections Commission (KPU) has set a preliminary voter figure of over 214 million for the 2029 election, but the announcement has been immediately overshadowed by familiar concerns over data accuracy. The Elections Supervisory Body (Bawaslu) has flagged persistent issues including data discrepancies, lack of coordination, and inconsistencies between official records and online voter checks. These findings highlight a chronic failure in electoral data management that has plagued Indonesian democracy for over a decade.

Motorcycle Owner Recounts Events Before Alleged Thief Beaten to Death in Morowali

A woman in Morowali, Central Sulawesi, has detailed the moments leading up to the fatal mob attack on Wawan Sudirman, a man accused of attempting to steal her motorcycle. She described how Sudirman claimed he was chasing a friend who had stolen his phone, an excuse she found illogical. The incident escalated when workers nearby intervened, and Sudirman was subsequently beaten by a mob after allegedly admitting to the theft.

ICEF-IPFE 2026 Opens, Targets 15,000 Visitors and Promotes Data-Driven Procurement

The Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin), alongside LKPP and IAPI, has launched the ICEF-IPFE 2026 expo in Jakarta, aiming to attract 15,000 participants. The event seeks to transform government procurement into a strategic tool for inclusive economic growth, leveraging data and digitalisation. Key focuses include strengthening the e-Katalog system, boosting UMKM participation, and preparing businesses for global supply chains.

1,700 SPPG Food Trays Stolen in South Tangerang, Security Guard Revealed as Mastermind

Police in South Tangerang have uncovered the theft of 1,700 food trays belonging to the city's Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit (SPPG), a key component of the national free meal programme. A security guard assigned to the SPPG kitchen has been identified as the alleged mastermind behind the operation. Three suspects have been arrested, while a fourth remains at large.

House Urges Government Not to Slacken Efforts to Eradicate Online Gambling

A senior Indonesian lawmaker has urged the government to maintain its crackdown on online gambling despite a reported 20 percent drop in transaction turnover. While acknowledging the positive trend, Deputy Chairman of House Commission I Sukamta warned that the problem persists, with transactions becoming more frequent and fragmented. He proposed a comprehensive National Digital Space Security Policy to strengthen coordination and enforcement.

DKI Jakarta Fosters Over 100,000 Entrepreneurs to Create New Jobs

The DKI Jakarta provincial government has mentored more than 100,000 entrepreneurs through its Jakpreneur programme, aiming to generate new employment opportunities. The initiative focuses on developing productive and creative economy ventures to provide residents with diverse income sources. Officials highlighted the programme's role in building a job ecosystem that extends beyond formal employment placements.

Online Gambling Transactions Fall, DPR Warns Against Relaxing Law Enforcement

Indonesia's House of Representatives has welcomed a 20 per cent decline in online gambling transactions in 2025, but cautioned that enforcement must not slacken. Deputy Speaker Sukamta urged the government to pursue a more systematic approach to eradication, particularly targeting major players. The Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre reported that total turnover dropped to Rp286.84 trillion, with deposits also falling significantly.

Batam City Allocates Rp50 Billion for Nyat Kadir Cultural Park as Tourism Destination

The Batam city government has earmarked approximately Rp50 billion to develop the Nyat Kadir Cultural Park, aiming to create a new cultural tourism destination and creative hub. The project, currently in the planning phase with a detailed engineering design expected by the end of 2026, will feature indoor and outdoor performance stages. The park is intended to serve as a permanent venue for regular art performances, a centre for creative economy activities, and a tribute to the late Malay figure and former mayor.

IDX Suspends Trading of ALKA and BKDP Shares Following Sharp Price Surge

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has suspended trading of PT Alakasa Industrindo Tbk (ALKA) and PT Bukit Darmo Property Tbk (BKDP) shares due to a significant cumulative price increase. The suspension, effective from the pre-opening session on 29 July 2026, aims to protect investors. The exchange also suspended the KIK Premier ETF Indonesia Consumer (XIIC) as its manager and custodian plan to dissolve and liquidate the fund.

Bareskrim: Whippink Contains Medical Anaesthetic Gas, Not Food-Grade Substance

Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has confirmed that nitrous oxide canisters sold under the brand 'Whippink' contain pure medical-grade anaesthetic gas, not food additives. Laboratory tests by the police and the Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) found the product violated food safety regulations and was allegedly designed for direct inhalation. Two suspects from PT Suplaindo Sukses Sejahtera have been detained under the Health Law, with authorities uncovering 16 illegal warehouses across 12 cities.

KPK Seizes Over Rp2 Billion in Cash After Sting Operation on Pemalang Regent

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized more than Rp2 billion in cash and is questioning 12 individuals following a sting operation targeting Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro. The operation, conducted across three cities, relates to alleged bribery in project procurement and the buying and selling of positions within the Pemalang district government. A total of 21 people were initially detained, with the KPK continuing intensive examinations to determine the legal status of those involved.

Responding to Shadow Cabinet, VP Gibran Encourages Public Oversight

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming has welcomed the formation of a shadow cabinet by civil society groups, viewing it as a healthy form of public participation. He stressed that objective, data-driven oversight serves as valuable evaluation for the government. The shadow cabinet was established by observers and academics who argue that parliamentary opposition and oversight have been ineffective.

Kendari Customs Foils Illegal Cigarette and Alcohol Smuggling via Courier Services

Customs officials in Kendari have seized 44,000 illicit cigarettes and 28.6 litres of alcoholic beverages during an operation targeting courier services. The goods, valued at approximately Rp 67.07 million, lacked the required excise bands. The operation potentially saved the state an estimated Rp 45.46 million in lost revenue.

Boyolali Primary School Student Recognised by NASA Receives Laptop from Ahmad Luthfi

A primary school student from Boyolali, Central Java, who received a letter of recognition from NASA for identifying a security vulnerability, has been awarded a laptop by provincial officials. Ibrahim discovered a broken link hijacking flaw in a NASA system and reported it through responsible disclosure. The local government hopes the support will encourage him to further develop his skills in coding and cyber security.

East Java High Prosecutor's Office Names Geology Division Head a Suspect in Licensing Bribery Case

The East Java High Prosecutor's Office has named Ertika Dinawati, Head of the Geology and Groundwater Division at the Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) Agency, as a new suspect in a corruption case involving illegal levies on business licensing. She is accused of ordering subordinates to collect illicit payments from hundreds of permit applicants, totalling approximately Rp1.3 billion, with some funds allegedly converted into gold and a vehicle. This brings the total number of suspects to four, including the head of the agency, in a scheme that targeted mining and groundwater permit applicants across the province.

Government Accelerates Overhaul of 13,000 Free Nutritious Meal Service Points

The Indonesian government is accelerating the restructuring of more than 13,000 service points for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme, prioritising regions with high stunting rates such as Papua Pegunungan and East Nusa Tenggara. Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan stated that the overhaul, which includes updating data for 63 million beneficiaries, will be completed within one to two months. The initiative follows a limited cabinet meeting and involves revising operational regulations to strengthen coordination across 17 ministries and agencies.

ESDM to Ease Licensing for 3-Kilogram LPG Distribution via 'Red and White' Village Cooperatives

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) is set to streamline licensing and distribution governance for subsidised 3-kilogram LPG cylinders through the newly established Koperasi Desa/Kelurahan Merah Putih (KDKMP). The initiative, part of a broader government programme, aims to use these cooperatives as official channels for distributing subsidised goods. The government targets 25,000 such cooperatives to be operational by August-September 2026, with a presidential regulation expected to be finalised this week.

Bappenas Releases Book on Indonesia Pavilion at World Expo 2025 Osaka

The Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas) has launched a book evaluating Indonesia's participation in the World Expo 2025 Osaka. The publication highlights the pavilion's success in attracting 3.58 million visitors and securing an estimated US$28.92 billion in potential investment commitments. The initiative reflects on the strategic outcomes of using the global event as a platform for both diplomacy and investment promotion.

A Night of Moroccan-Indonesian Art to Strengthen Cultural Bonds

Indonesia and Morocco hosted a musical performance in Jakarta themed 'Bridging Moroccan-Indonesian Civilisations' to bolster bilateral cultural ties. The event highlighted the historical connection dating back to the 14th-century visit of Moroccan explorer Ibn Battuta to Aceh. It featured Sufi and Andalusian music from Moroccan artists alongside traditional Sundanese and religious performances from Indonesian artists.

KPK Seizes Over Rp2 Billion in Cash During Sting Operation Against Pemalang Regent

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized more than Rp2 billion in cash and sealed several government offices following a sting operation that ensnared Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro. A total of 21 individuals were detained for questioning, though the anti-graft body has yet to disclose the full details of the case. The operation marks the latest in a series of arrests targeting regional leaders in 2026.

West Sumatra Police Foil Distribution of Dozens of Cannabis Packages

The West Sumatra Police's Drug Investigation Directorate, in a joint operation, arrested a 46-year-old courier and seized dozens of packages of dried cannabis in Pasaman Barat. The suspect was intercepted while allegedly transporting the drugs from North Sumatra to Bukittinggi. Authorities are intensifying border surveillance and urging public cooperation to combat narcotics trafficking.

INA Ranks Second in Asia for Sovereign Wealth Fund Governance

The Indonesia Investment Authority (INA) has been ranked second in Asia for governance, sustainability, and resilience by the Global SWF's 2026 GSR Scoreboard, achieving an overall score of 92%. INA Chairman Oki Ramadhana highlighted that strong governance is now a primary consideration for global investors amid rising geopolitical and economic uncertainty. The institution's score has risen dramatically from 24% in 2021, reflecting its growing credibility and role in attracting investment to Indonesia.

Yogyakarta Customs Destroys Rp 916 Million Worth of Seized Goods

The Yogyakarta Customs and Excise Office, in collaboration with the regional Public Order Agency, has destroyed illegal goods valued at approximately Rp 916 million. The destroyed items, which included illegal tobacco products, alcohol, mobile phones, and psychotropic drugs, were seized between November 2025 and June 2026. The operation prevented an estimated Rp 384 million in potential state losses.

Four Workers Evacuated from Hospital Project Fire in Denpasar, Two Briefly Unconscious

A fire broke out on the sixth floor of the Amerta Husadha Hospital construction project in Denpasar on Wednesday, trapping four workers. Two of the trapped workers briefly lost consciousness due to smoke inhalation before being rescued, while a firefighter also required medical assistance. All victims were taken to Prof. Ngoerah Hospital for treatment, and the fire was extinguished within an hour.

BI Jakarta Urges Payment Service Providers to Strengthen Suspicious Transaction Detection

Bank Indonesia's Jakarta representative office has called on payment service providers and non-bank foreign exchange operators to enhance early detection of suspicious transactions to combat money laundering and terrorism financing. The central bank warned that firms failing to comply with reporting obligations or facilitating illegal money changers could face sanctions, including licence revocation. The appeal was made during the Jakarta Secure Payment Summit 2026 as part of efforts to maintain the integrity of the financial system.

Government targets 'refocusing' of free nutritious meal recipients before 5 August

The Indonesian government aims to complete a refocusing of beneficiaries for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme by 5 August 2026. The Ministry of Health and the National Nutrition Agency will collaborate with nutrition experts to set standards for menus and target recipients. The initiative includes using data from local health posts to monitor the impact on stunting reduction, adjusting meal contents based on individual nutritional needs.

WhatsApp to Charge Rp 700 Per Chat for Certain Business Messages

Meta has announced a new pricing scheme for WhatsApp Business, introducing a fee of approximately Rp 700 per message for replies handled by its Meta Business Agent AI starting August 1, 2026. The charge applies to non-template messages processed by the AI agent, with costs varying based on the complexity of the response. Standard template messages will continue to incur existing per-message fees.

Green logistics strategy to control inflation

Indonesia's food inflation is not solely a supply issue but is significantly driven by high distribution costs, which can account for up to 40% of retail prices. A hybrid logistics model combining diesel trucks for long-haul and electric vehicles for last-mile delivery offers a realistic solution to stabilise prices. This approach not only supports decarbonisation but also reduces energy costs by up to 78%, strengthening the resilience of the food supply chain.

BI DKI Builds Collaboration to Strengthen Payment System Ecosystem

Bank Indonesia's DKI Jakarta Representative Office has launched the TRUST Jakarta programme to bolster the security and competitiveness of the digital payment ecosystem. The initiative focuses on enhancing supervision, risk management, and anti-money laundering compliance among payment service providers and money changers. Given that Jakarta oversees a significant portion of the nation's payment and foreign exchange industry, the programme aims to foster collaboration between regulators, industry, and academia.

Garuda Bridge Programme Connects 7,371 Villages, Says Government Communications Body

The Indonesian Government Communications Body reports that the Garuda Bridge Programme has completed 1,416 bridges, connecting 7,371 villages and benefiting over 4.2 million people. The infrastructure push has slashed average travel times by 45 to 50 minutes in connected areas, while also improving access for emergency services and agricultural logistics. The programme, overseen by a task force led by the Army Chief of Staff, is nearly halfway towards its target of 2,838 bridges by July 2026.

BI Jakarta Strengthens Oversight of Digital Payment System Providers

Bank Indonesia's Jakarta office is intensifying its supervision of digital payment service providers through both off-site report analysis and on-site inspections. The move aims to ensure regulatory compliance and maintain system security amid the growing complexity of the industry. Jakarta hosts the largest concentration of such providers in Indonesia, accounting for roughly a third of the national total.

Pemalang Regent Caught in KPK Sting, House Commission II Highlights Inadequate Regional Head Salaries

The arrest of Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has prompted a senior lawmaker to call for systemic reforms. Deputy Chairman of House Commission II, Dede Yusuf, argued that the high cost of local elections and insufficient official remuneration are key drivers of corruption among regional leaders. He stressed that both campaign financing and take-home pay must be addressed to prevent future graft.

Danantara Housing Expo 2026 to Ease Public Access to Housing

Danantara Indonesia is hosting the Danantara Housing Expo 2026 in Jakarta to simplify home ownership and support the government's three million houses programme. The event integrates property options with flexible financing, including down payments starting at 1 per cent and interest rates from 2.75 per cent. It brings together state-owned property firms, Himbara banks, and private developers to offer a one-stop housing ecosystem.

KPK Arrests Pemalang Regent in Sting Operation, Seizes Over Rp2 Billion

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested the Regent of Pemalang, Anom Widiyantoro, in a sting operation. The anti-graft agency seized over Rp2 billion in cash and sealed several locations, including the Public Works and Spatial Planning office and two private residences. The operation marks the 18th OTT conducted by the KPK in 2026.

Saudi Arabia Strikes Iran-Backed Militias in Iraq with US Support

Saudi Arabia, in coordination with US Central Command, launched airstrikes against Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) bases in Iraq, killing at least eight members. The strikes were a direct response to recent drone attacks on Saudi oil facilities, which Riyadh claims were launched from Iraqi territory by Iran-backed militias. Iraq has condemned the strikes as a violation of its sovereignty, while pro-Iran factions have denied involvement and threatened retaliation.

Doctor warns recurring migraines can disrupt life productivity

A neurologist has cautioned that chronic migraines, often dismissed as ordinary headaches, can significantly impair the quality of life and productivity of millions of Indonesians, particularly those of working age. The condition is also linked to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Columbia Asia Hospital Pulomas is urging early detection and proper medical consultation to mitigate the long-term impact on the nation's workforce.

Jetis-Karangsemut Road in Bantul to Close 29-31 July for Maintenance

Police have announced a temporary road closure on the Jetis-Karangsemut route in Bantul from 29 to 31 July 2026 to facilitate road maintenance works. The closure, which will be in effect during daytime hours, is necessary for the installation of a box culvert and resurfacing. Motorists are advised to seek alternative routes during the specified times.

Potential for Pertamax Price Drop? Here's the Calculation from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) is reviewing the economic viability of non-subsidised fuel Pertamax following a recent decline in global oil prices. Deputy Minister Yuliot stated that if the average crude price continues to fall, state-owned Pertamina could adjust the fuel price downwards. This comes after Brent crude dropped below USD 84 per barrel for the first time since mid-July.

Government to Introduce E10 Petrol from 2027 and E20 Thereafter to Curb Fuel Imports

The Indonesian government is preparing a phased rollout of bioethanol-blended petrol, starting with E10 in 2027, to reduce reliance on imported fuel. The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources aims to progress to E20 by 2028-2029, but insists the mandate must be supported by a ready domestic bioethanol industry. The strategy mirrors the successful gradual implementation of biodiesel blending in the country.

DKI Jakarta ensures out-of-school children return to education

The DKI Jakarta provincial government has launched the 'Sekolah Kembali' (Back to School) programme to guarantee every child's right to education and reduce the number of out-of-school children. The initiative, which coincides with the school orientation period, initially targets 180 children across four West Jakarta districts. It offers pathways through formal schooling or alternative equivalency programmes, alongside free education to remove economic barriers.

Pemalang Regent Caught in KPK Sting Operation, Declared Assets Worth Rp21.3 Billion

Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro has been arrested in a sting operation by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), marking the 12th regional head to be ensnared this year. The former state-owned enterprise executive, who was inaugurated by President Prabowo Subianto in February 2025, had reported a net worth of Rp21.3 billion in his state wealth report. His assets reportedly include 18 plots of land and buildings across several cities, as well as luxury vehicles.

Medan Sub-District Head Investigated After Mocking Resident's Complaint to Mayor

A sub-district head in Medan is under investigation by the Inspectorate after a video of her mocking a resident's complaint to the mayor went viral. The resident had been explaining to Mayor Rico Waas that he used personal funds to install street lighting due to safety concerns and rampant crime. The official's dismissive remark was deemed a violation of the civil servant code of ethics.

Lampung Police Destroy Rp264.9 Billion Worth of Narcotics Evidence

The Lampung Regional Police have destroyed narcotics evidence valued at Rp264.9 billion, seized from 29 cases involving 35 suspects between January and July 2026. The destroyed items included 119.1 kg of crystal methamphetamine, 58.2 kg of cannabis, and tens of thousands of ecstasy pills. Authorities estimate the operation has potentially saved over 829,000 lives from the dangers of drug abuse.

Two Chinese Nationals Who Died Snorkelling in Labuan Bajo to Receive Rp 110 Million Compensation

The families of two Chinese tourists who drowned while snorkelling in Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai, will receive Rp 110 million in compensation from the travel agent and boat owner. The agreement was reached after five days of mediation facilitated by the police. The compensation, to be paid in instalments, covers hospital, repatriation, and cremation costs, while a criminal investigation into alleged negligence continues.

Qodari: Surabaya's Integrated 'Sekolah Rakyat' Facilities Rival Private Schools

Head of Government Communications Muhammad Qodari stated that the facilities at the Integrated Sekolah Rakyat 2 in Surabaya are on par with expensive private schools. The school, built on 6.6 hectares to accommodate 370 students from the lowest economic deciles, is set to open in August 2026. The initiative aims to provide equal access to high-quality education as a means to improve welfare and national dignity.

Minister urges acceleration of free nutritious meal programme for Islamic boarding school students

Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar has called for an acceleration of the Free Nutritious Meal programme, noting that only one per cent of Islamic boarding school students have benefited so far. He stressed that accurate integrated data on the 6.2 million santri across 42,000 institutions is crucial to expanding coverage. The Ministry of Religious Affairs pledged proactive facilitation between the National Nutrition Agency and religious education networks.