Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 29 July 2026

Showing 1,001-1,050 of 1,531 articles

BSI Gold Business Fee-Based Income Surges 712%

PT Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) reported a 712% year-on-year surge in fee-based income from its gold business, driven by a 700% increase in bullion bank customers. The bank traded 8.06 tonnes of gold in the first half of 2026, with total outstanding gold-related financing reaching Rp 30.5 trillion. BSI aims to capitalise on growing public demand for gold as a safe-haven investment amid economic uncertainty.

KAI Customer Satisfaction Index Reaches 4.53, Driven by 3.25 Million Feedback Voices

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) reported a Customer Satisfaction Index of 4.53 out of 5 for the first half of 2026, a slight increase from the previous period. The company also monitored 3.25 million customer voices on social media to identify service improvement areas. KAI's President Director stated that this feedback is crucial for enhancing service quality, with station waiting rooms and boarding areas identified as priorities for improvement.

KPK Says Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro Under Intensive Questioning in Jakarta

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed that Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro is undergoing intensive questioning at its headquarters following a sting operation. The operation, which netted 21 individuals and Rp2 billion in cash, relates to alleged corruption in government projects and the buying and selling of positions within the Pemalang administration.

List of 12 Regional Heads Caught in KPK Sting Operations in 2026

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested the Regent of Pemalang, Anom Widiyantoro, in a sting operation, bringing the total number of district heads and mayors ensnared in corruption cases in 2026 to twelve. The arrest took place in Pemalang, Central Java, with a total of 21 individuals detained across multiple locations. Authorities also sealed several sites, including the Public Works and Spatial Planning office and a contractor's residence.

Destry Damayanti in Line to Succeed Perry as Permanent BI Governor, Economist Assesses

Economist Josua Pardede has identified Senior Deputy Governor Destry Damayanti as the most natural candidate to replace Perry Warjiyo as the permanent Governor of Bank Indonesia. Pardede emphasised that the successor must be a technocrat capable of maintaining the central bank's independence and coordinating policy without succumbing to short-term government interests. Destry Damayanti is currently serving as the acting Governor following Warjiyo's resignation.

Forensic Lab Steps In to Investigate Suspicious Death of Former Deputy Attorney General's Aide

The Indonesian National Police's Forensic Laboratory (Puslabfor) has been deployed to investigate the suspicious death of Sutrimo, an assistant to a former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes. Police are conducting a scientific crime scene investigation and gathering evidence to determine the exact cause of death. Authorities have assured the public that the investigation will be thorough and transparent.

IHSG Under Further Pressure at Midday Close, Plunges 0.6% to 6,093

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) fell 0.6% to 6,093.5 at the midday break on Wednesday, with selling pressure hitting nearly all sectors. The property sector led the decline, dropping 2.6%, while only the healthcare sector managed to eke out a marginal gain.

Melly Goeslaw: In the Hands of the Young Generation, Wayang Golek Remains Alive and Cool

Member of the Indonesian House of Representatives Commission X, Melly Goeslaw, has called for a revitalisation of traditional culture, emphasising that it should serve as inspiration for the future rather than a relic of the past. Speaking at a cultural event, she highlighted Wayang Golek as a Sundanese masterpiece that must be preserved through active youth participation. She urged the creation of an ecosystem involving schools, families, and the creative industry to integrate tradition with modern technology and daily life.

Yusril urges police to boost security to prevent vigilante acts

Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra has called on law enforcement to heighten vigilance against street crime to prevent vigilante justice. He warned that the state's failure to provide security could lead to serious human rights violations, citing recent fatal mob attacks in Bali and Morowali. A joint coordination meeting will be convened to ensure a comprehensive, cross-ministerial response to the rising crime.

MRT Bundaran HI Multifunction Space to Connect Plaza Indonesia and Kempinski

A new multifunction space at the MRT Bundaran HI station will link Plaza Indonesia and Hotel Indonesia Kempinski, enhancing pedestrian connectivity in Jakarta's business district. The 4,200 square metre area, currently 22 percent complete, is designed as a free public space with a capacity of 3,200 people. The project, costing Rp148.2 billion, is targeted for completion by June 2027, coinciding with the city's 500th anniversary.

Viral Half-Mast Flag Video Ahead of Independence Day in Tasikmalaya, Here's the Explanation

A video showing flags appearing to be flown at half-mast in a Tasikmalaya village went viral ahead of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The local neighbourhood chief clarified that the flags were not intentionally placed at half-mast, but were part of an unfinished village beautification project. He explained that the installation of the flags and street lighting on the tall poles had not yet been completed.

MPR: Creative economy an opportunity for Indonesia to face global uncertainty

Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Lestari Moerdijat believes the creative economy offers Indonesia a pathway to navigate global uncertainty. She highlighted the need for industry-relevant curricula, improved teacher quality, and stronger synergy between government, industry, and educational institutions. The sector absorbed 27.4 million workers in 2025 and contributed significantly to the nation's GDP.

Pertamina Patra Niaga accelerates fuel distribution normalisation in West Kalimantan

Pertamina Patra Niaga is expediting the normalisation of fuel distribution across West Kalimantan by optimising tanker ship arrivals and deliveries. The company is implementing early morning dispatches and proactive stock build-up at petrol stations to address supply concerns. Coordination with local authorities has also been intensified to ensure smooth and safe distribution.

Trial of Doctor Tifa Over Jokowi Diploma Case Resumes on 6 August

The East Jakarta District Court has rescheduled the trial of Tifauziah Tyassuma, known as Doctor Tifa, for 6 August after prosecutors revised their previously annulled indictment. The case, which involves allegations regarding the authenticity of former President Joko Widodo's diploma, will restart from the beginning with a new charge. The initial indictment was thrown out by the panel of judges on 23 July for being imprecise and vague.

Prabowo Urges Young Civil Servants to Strengthen Governance

President Prabowo Subianto has called on newly graduated civil servants to build a strong, clean, and people-oriented government. Speaking at the inauguration of IPDN's 33rd cohort in Jatinangor, he stressed that a robust domestic administration is essential to prevent national division and achieve prosperity. He also warned that Indonesia's wealth has historically made it a target for divide-and-rule tactics by foreign powers.

OECD Urges Malaysia to Undertake Reforms to Sustain Economic Growth

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has called on Malaysia to implement a new wave of reforms to maintain robust economic growth and strengthen fiscal sustainability. The recommendations span education, taxation, and competition policy, including a push for a level playing field between state-owned and private enterprises. The OECD also highlighted the need for climate adaptation strategies, warning that growth prospects are clouded by global trade tensions and commodity price volatility.

Morowali HPAL Project Projected to Strengthen EV Battery Supply Chain

The $2 billion High Pressure Acid Leaching (HPAL) project in Sambalagi, Morowali, is expected to bolster Indonesia's nickel downstream industry and strengthen the supply chain for electric vehicle batteries. The project, developed by PT Vale Indonesia, is part of a national strategic initiative aimed at creating higher-value nickel products and stimulating regional economic growth. Officials and analysts highlight the project's potential to generate multiplier effects for the local economy, provided there is a strong commitment to involving local SMEs and improving public welfare.

MRT Jakarta Now Accepts Direct Credit Card Payments

PT MRT Jakarta has launched a contactless EMV payment system, allowing passengers to pay for rides directly with Visa and Mastercard credit cards. The system, a first for Indonesian public transport, eliminates the need for special transit cards or pre-loaded balances. Governor Pramono Anung stated this initiative enhances convenience for both residents and foreign tourists, supporting Jakarta's competitiveness as a global city.

KPK Arrests Pemalang Regent in Sting Operation Over Alleged Project Corruption and Position Trading

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested the Regent of Pemalang, Anom Widiyantoro, in a sting operation. The arrest relates to alleged corruption in government projects and the buying and selling of official positions within the Pemalang Regency administration. Approximately Rp2 billion in cash was seized during the operation, which involved securing 21 individuals across multiple locations.

OJK Reveals Companies Received Rp 992.8 Billion from LPEI Despite History of Bad Credit

A senior OJK analyst testified that two companies, PT Tebo Indo and PT Pratama Agro Sawit, had been classified as having non-performing loans since October 2020, yet still received export financing from LPEI. The analyst stated that the credit quality was rated as collectability 5, or bad debt, with arrears of 276 days, making it likely LPEI would be unable to recover the outstanding debt. Eight defendants, including former LPEI officials and company directors, are on trial for corruption that allegedly caused state losses of Rp 992.8 billion.

Deputy Police Chief Urges KBPP Polri to Prepare Young Generation for AI Era

Deputy National Police Chief Komjen Pol. Dedi Prasetyo has called on the Police Families Association (KBPP Polri) to ready the younger generation for challenges posed by artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. He emphasised the organisation's strategic role in building character, digital literacy, and entrepreneurship. The newly inaugurated leadership aims to strengthen data consolidation and synergy with stakeholders to empower youth.

PT Timah's Tin Ore Production Surges 75% in First Half of 2026

State-owned tin miner PT Timah reported a 75% jump in tin ore production to 12,232 tonnes in the first half of 2026, driving a 247% surge in revenue to Rp 10.42 trillion. The company attributed the strong performance to operational transformation, increased productivity, and higher average selling prices. Net profit reached Rp 2.71 trillion, already exceeding the full-year 2026 target by 69%.

Iran Insists on Holding Control in Strait of Hormuz Talks with Oman

Iran has proposed a temporary arrangement to Oman for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, demanding that one-way maritime traffic and part of the return route pass through its territorial waters. Tehran rejected an Omani counter-proposal for equal 50-50 control, asserting it must hold primary command over the strategic waterway. The insistence underscores Iran's claim to dominance over the vital energy transit route amid regional tensions.

KPK Reveals OTT of Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro Over Alleged Project Corruption and Position Trading

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has conducted a sting operation against Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro, who is suspected of receiving illicit payments related to government projects and the buying and selling of official positions. A total of 21 individuals were detained across Jakarta, Pemalang, and Purworejo, with investigators seizing approximately Rp2 billion in cash. The anti-graft body is currently examining the evidence to determine whether the charges will involve bribery, extortion, or other criminal acts.

Khofifah: PKH Mentors Visit Students' Families 10 Times to Get Them Back to School

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa revealed that Family Hope Programme (PKH) mentors visited the families of prospective students up to 10 times to persuade them to allow their children to return to education. The children, many of whom had dropped out of primary school, are being recruited for the newly established Integrated People's School (SRT) in Tuban. The initiative is part of the government's commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals' principle of leaving no child behind.

KPK Secures 21 People in Sting Operation Against Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained 21 individuals across Jakarta, Pemalang, and Purworejo in a sting operation targeting Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro. The operation, the 18th conducted by the anti-graft body in 2026, saw five people arrested in Jakarta, fifteen in Pemalang, and one in Purworejo. The KPK has 24 hours to determine the legal status of those detained, with twelve individuals scheduled for further examination at the KPK's headquarters.

Roy Suryo Demands Rp206 Million Compensation in Third Pretrial Hearing

Roy Suryo is seeking Rp206 million in compensation through a third pretrial motion filed at the South Jakarta District Court. The claim includes Rp106 million for material losses, such as lost YouTube income and legal fees, and Rp100 million for immaterial damages including psychological distress. This follows a previous pretrial victory regarding his arrest and detention, while a second motion concerning his suspect status was rejected.

Pramono and Bahlil Discuss Hydrogen for Transjakarta, Jakarta Prepares Clean Energy Pilot Project

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has discussed plans with Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia to introduce hydrogen fuel for Transjakarta and Transjabodetabek public transport. The initiative includes preparing supporting infrastructure and a pilot project, with car manufacturers offering to provide hydrogen-fuelled vehicles for trials.

Pramono Responds to Plan to Issue Jakarta Bonds Worth IDR 3.5 Trillion

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has responded to the Home Affairs Minister's warning regarding the planned issuance of IDR 3.5 trillion in regional bonds. Pramono assured that the province's fiscal condition is strong enough to meet the obligations, describing the move as a creative financing scheme for development. He pledged to coordinate with the central government before proceeding, while the minister cautioned that the debt must not become a burden for future administrations.

PKP Ministry Promotes Domestic Products Through 'Gentengisasi' Programme

The Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas (PKP) is advancing the use of locally manufactured building materials through a national 'gentengisasi' (tile roofing) programme. The initiative aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's directive to boost domestic products while ensuring quality standards are met through testing by the Ceramics Institute. The programme aims to stimulate the economy by involving small and medium enterprises, with an initial transaction commitment of around Rp3 billion from central, provincial, and district government projects.

PLN EPI Strengthens Biomass Ecosystem, Supply Chain Key to Co-firing Success

PT PLN Energi Primer Indonesia (PLN EPI) is reinforcing the biomass supply chain as a critical component for the success of its co-firing programme at coal-fired power plants. The company is developing an integrated 'Spoke-Hub' model and a digital marketplace to ensure quality and continuity of supply, utilising forestry and agricultural residues. This initiative aims to support the national decarbonisation agenda and achieve the Net Zero Emissions target by 2060 or sooner.

Air Force Chief: Air power built on values of service, not just operations

Indonesian Air Force Chief of Staff, Air Chief Marshal M. Tonny Harjono, stated that air power is built not only on operational capability but also on the values of service inherited across generations. Speaking at the 79th Air Force Service Day, he highlighted that while the nature of challenges has evolved from physical struggle to cyber and multi-domain threats, the core value of dedication remains unchanged. He urged all personnel to view every assignment as an honour and to transform challenges into opportunities for enhancing professionalism.

President Prabowo Inaugurates 1,204 IPDN Graduates as Young Civil Servants

President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated 1,204 graduates of the Institute of Public Administration (IPDN) as Young Civil Servants (Pamong Praja Muda) in a ceremony in Sumedang, West Java. The President urged the new appointees to dedicate themselves to serving the people and to be a beacon of hope during times of public hardship. The graduates had previously been deployed to assist with hydrometeorological disaster management in Aceh even before their official inauguration.

Zelenskyy: US Agrees to Grant Patriot Missile Production Licence to Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced that US President Donald Trump has agreed to grant a licence for the production of Patriot missile systems in Ukraine. The agreement follows discussions initiated at the NATO summit in Ankara and was confirmed during a meeting at the White House. Zelenskyy stressed the urgent need for joint production to bolster Ukraine's air defences.

Mazda Officially Opens Indonesian Plant, Showcases Three New Models at GIIAS

PT Eurokars Motor Indonesia has inaugurated its first assembly plant in Citeureup, West Java, and immediately unveiled three new models at the GIIAS 2026 auto show. The launch includes the locally assembled Mazda CX-30, the third-generation CX-5, and the brand's first battery electric vehicle for the Indonesian market, the Mazda 6e Fastback. The company described the moves as a demonstration of long-term commitment to the Indonesian market.

Bali Governor says no more foreigners-only clubs on the island

Bali Governor Wayan Koster has declared that exclusive foreigner-only clubs and residential communities will no longer be tolerated on the island, citing the recent dissolution of a so-called 'Russian village'. He also dismissed claims that a 'Silent Disco' event was discriminatory, while immigration authorities have already taken action against two Dutch nationals for organising an exclusive running club without permits. The provincial government pledged to maintain a conducive tourism environment and ensure all visitors comply with local regulations.

KPK Arrests 21 in Sting Operation Against Pemalang Regent, Seizes Rp2 Billion

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested 21 individuals in a sting operation targeting Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro across Jakarta, Pemalang, and Purworejo. Authorities seized Rp2 billion in cash and sealed several locations for further investigation. This marks the 18th such operation conducted by the anti-graft body in 2026.

Hundreds of Luwu Timur Farmers Reject Land Clearance Plan

Hundreds of farmers in Luwu Timur Regency, South Sulawesi, have staged a protest against the local government's plan to clear land for an industrial zone. The farmers claim long-standing ownership and cultivation rights over the area, predating the issuance of a government management certificate. Despite a request from the National Commission on Human Rights to postpone the clearance, the regency administration is proceeding with technical coordination for the eviction.

Creative economy to power growth in transmigration areas: Minister

Indonesia's Creative Economy Minister has outlined plans to develop the creative economy in transmigration areas as a new engine for national growth. The 2026 Patriot Expedition Teams will map local potential in sub-sectors like crafts and fashion, with follow-up programmes including Creative Village Activation and Creative Hub Activation. The creative economy sector has shown strong performance, with investment realisation reaching Rp183 trillion and exports hitting US$31.94 billion in 2025.

US to expand disaster response training at RIMPAC in 2028

The United States plans to broaden Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations during the 2028 Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) multinational naval exercise. The decision follows the perceived success of similar drills in RIMPAC 2026, which enhanced multinational readiness and interoperability. The expanded training aims to improve rapid response capabilities for crises across the Pacific region.

Korlantas Polri and Jasa Raharja Strengthen Synergy to Improve Tax Payment Services and Reduce Accidents

The Indonesian National Police's Traffic Corps (Korlantas) and state-owned insurer PT Jasa Raharja have agreed to strengthen their collaboration. The partnership aims to enhance public services, particularly in vehicle tax payments and traffic accident management. Both institutions are committed to leveraging digital transformation to improve service speed and implementing preventive measures to reduce road fatalities.

IHSG Briefly Dips Below 6,050, Where Is It Heading Next?

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) closed the first trading session on Wednesday in the red, briefly falling below the 6,050 level amid cautious market sentiment. Analysts attribute the decline to a combination of external factors, including anticipation of the Federal Reserve's interest rate decision, and domestic pressures such as rupiah depreciation and profit-taking. The index is expected to remain in a consolidation phase with support at 6,050-6,080, while the medium-term outlook remains relatively positive.

Mayor: Batam transforming into high-tech industrial sector

Batam's investment structure is shifting from assembly manufacturing towards high-tech industries and data centres, according to Mayor Amsakar Achmad. The transformation is marked by growing investor interest in information technology, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals, with major projects including a data centre and a planned GPU production facility. Investment realisation in the first half of 2026 surged to IDR 29.89 trillion, reflecting a more conducive business climate and higher-value projects.

Seribu Islands Regency opens new business opportunities with diving certification for residents

The Seribu Islands Regency administration is providing Rescue Diver training and certification to local residents to foster new business ventures and boost the local economy. The programme, a collaboration between the government, a community group, and PT Pertamina Nusantara Regas, aims to create a skilled coastal workforce for the marine tourism and conservation sectors. Participants receive both theoretical knowledge and practical diving experience to obtain official licences.

BI Governor Appointment Seen as Referendum on Central Bank Independence

An economist has warned that the selection of Bank Indonesia's next governor will be a critical test of the central bank's independence, with a transparent process likely to lower Indonesia's investment risk premium. A perceived opaque or political appointment could heighten concerns over fiscal dominance and increase the nation's cost of capital. President Prabowo Subianto is currently seeking a successor to Perry Warjiyo, with Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa and Senior Deputy Governor Destry Damayanti among the names in discussion.

Papua Advisory Board: Papua Is Not Empty Land

A member of Papua's special autonomy advisory board has criticised development approaches that ignore indigenous land rights, warning that such neglect provokes community resistance. Alberth Yoku emphasised that every piece of land in Papua has a name, history, and value that must be respected by the government and investors. Separately, the Witness and Victim Protection Agency is still reviewing a protection request from a Papuan customary figure involved in a dispute over the controversial film 'Pesta Babi'.

Rais Syuriyah: Support for Police Chief Candidate Not Official Stance of West Java PWNU

A senior cleric from the West Java branch of Nahdlatul Ulama (PWNU) has clarified that a statement supporting a particular candidate for National Police Chief was a personal view, not an official organisational position. KH Abun Bunyamin emphasised that the matter was never discussed through the proper internal mechanisms. He also praised the current Police Chief's good relations with the NU community and urged the organisation to remain a neutral home for all its members.

President Prabowo Officially Inaugurates Civil Service Corps Batch XXXIII

President Prabowo Subianto has inaugurated 1,404 graduates of the Institute of Home Affairs Governance (IPDN) in Jatinangor, West Java. The new civil service corps members, including 1,204 bachelor's degree holders, will be deployed to central and regional government agencies across Indonesia. Their postings will include assignments in underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost regions, aligning with the state's civil service formation needs.

Prabowo: Experts Predict Indonesia to Become World's 4th Largest Economy in 25 Years

President Prabowo Subianto stated that global experts forecast Indonesia's economy will rank fourth in the world within 25 years, surpassing France, Germany, and the United Kingdom. He made the remarks while inaugurating new civil servants, urging them to prepare for leadership roles to ensure effective policy implementation. Prabowo also cautioned against foreign divide-and-conquer tactics, emphasising the need for national unity to protect the country's vast potential.

Bulog Plans Premium Fortified Rice for Free Nutritious Meal Programme

State logistics agency Bulog is developing a premium fortified rice specifically for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme, distinct from its standard subsidised rice. The proposal, aimed at improving nutrition for children and pregnant women, has received positive initial responses from the Agriculture Minister and the National Nutrition Agency. The pricing scheme will be determined in upcoming coordination meetings with the government.