Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 29 July 2026

Showing 1,151-1,200 of 1,531 articles

Bio Friends Enters Indonesia's Clean Fuel Market with DME Plant Investment

South Korea's Bio Friends Inc. has signed an investment agreement with Indonesian partners to develop a Dimethyl Ether (DME) production plant in Sidoarjo, East Java. The project, valued at USD 12 million, aims to produce 10,000 tonnes of DME annually by 2028, supporting Indonesia's policy to expand clean fuel use and reduce LPG imports. The venture also plans to explore carbon capture and utilisation projects to create green methanol and DME from industrial emissions.

BNPB Distributes 4,000 Litres of Clean Water to Combat Drought in West Bandung

The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has dispatched 4,000 litres of clean water to address drought conditions in West Bandung Regency, West Java. The distribution aims to meet the basic needs of at least 175 families, or 520 individuals, affected by the declining water supply. Local disaster management teams delivered the water directly to residential areas using two tanker trucks.

30 Nations, 30,000 Personnel Participate in RIMPAC 2026 Military Exercise

The Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2026 multinational naval exercise, involving 30 nations and over 30,000 personnel, is concluding in Hawaii. The drills focused on enhancing interoperability in maritime, air, cyber, and amphibious operations, including humanitarian assistance and disaster response scenarios. South Korea assumed a key leadership role in the Combined Force Maritime Component for the first time.

APTI Warns Government: PP 28/2024 Could Devastate Industry and Millions of Workers

The Indonesian Tobacco Farmers Association (APTI) has warned that implementing Government Regulation 28/2024 threatens the livelihoods of millions. The regulation, which restricts tar and nicotine levels and mandates plain packaging, is feared to reduce demand for local tobacco and increase reliance on imports. Farmers have staged protests demanding the government revoke the rules and engage in dialogue before the sector suffers irreversible damage.

US and Saudi Arabia Launch Joint Strikes on Pro-Iran Militias in Iraq

The United States and Saudi Arabia have conducted joint airstrikes against Iran-backed militias in Iraq, in retaliation for recent drone attacks on American forces and Saudi oil facilities. US Central Command warned the IRGC and its proxies to cease attacks or face further military response, while Saudi Arabia confirmed its participation and called on Baghdad to prevent such cross-border assaults.

RI allocates Rp5.9 trillion for MagangHub and vocational training

The Indonesian government has allocated Rp5.9 trillion to expand its national internship and vocational training programmes, targeting 300,000 training participants and 150,000 interns. The initiative includes conventional skills like welding alongside technology-based training in smart operations and farming, with the Manpower Minister highlighting strong overseas employment prospects for graduates. The funding aims to develop a highly skilled workforce through ministry-run and regional training centres across the country.

Tech Firm Surge Net Profit Surges 118% as Revenue Triples in Record First-Half

Indonesian digital infrastructure provider PT Solusi Sinergi Digital Tbk (Surge), controlled by Hashim Djojohadikusumo, reported a 118.2% jump in net profit to Rp 496.99 billion for the first half of 2026, driven by soaring demand for connectivity. Revenue more than tripled to Rp 1.57 trillion, as the company's aggressive expansion of affordable broadband and fibre-optic networks successfully tapped into underserved middle and lower-income demographics. The stellar performance underscores Surge's growing role as a critical telecom asset in Southeast Asia's largest economy.

Without a bridge, primary school students rely on river crossing to reach school

Students at SD Negeri Padahayu 2 in Pandeglang, Banten, are forced to wade across the 26-metre-wide Cipunten Agung River to attend school due to the absence of a connecting bridge. The dangerous crossing not only threatens the children's safety but has also contributed to a decline in student enrolment. The situation highlights critical gaps in rural infrastructure development.

Government Synergises Family and School to Build Quality Generation

The Ministry of Population and Family Development and the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education have signed a memorandum of understanding to align their programmes. The collaboration aims to strengthen the role of families and schools in developing superior human resources ahead of the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision. Concrete steps include implementing the 'School Alert for Population' concept, which integrates population issues into the curriculum and student support services.

Mazda Launches Three New Models at GIIAS, Including the Electric 6e

Mazda's Indonesian distributor, PT Eurokars Motor Indonesia, unveiled three new models at the GIIAS 2026 auto show, including the all-electric Mazda 6e fastback. The launch follows the inauguration of Mazda's first assembly plant in Citeureup, West Java, signalling a strengthened investment and manufacturing commitment in the country. The new CX-30 will be locally assembled, allowing for a more competitive price point.

Prabowo urges young civil servants to always side with the people

President Prabowo Subianto has called on 1,204 newly graduated civil servants to prioritise the interests of the people above personal or group interests. Speaking at their inauguration in Sumedang, West Java, he emphasised loyalty to the nation, adherence to Pancasila, and the importance of serving with humility. The President stressed that all state policies must be rooted in the needs of the community, especially the most vulnerable.

Drought Forces Gunungkidul Residents to Trek 2 Kilometres Five Times Daily for Water

Residents of Duwet Hamlet in Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta, are enduring a severe drought, forcing them to make multiple daily trips on foot to a turbid spring known as Kali Wonosari. The local government has distributed over 636,000 litres of clean water, but many villages remain reliant on natural springs and purchased water as the dry season intensifies.

Prabowo Instructs BMKG to Strengthen El Niño Anticipatory Measures

President Prabowo Subianto has directed ministries and agencies to bolster preparations for the dry season coinciding with the El Niño phenomenon. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) will intensify weather modification operations to prevent forest fires and secure water supplies. Six provinces, including Riau and South Sumatra, have been identified as priority areas for these preventative efforts.

Lampung Province Poised to Become National Cassava Development Hub

Lampung Governor Rahmat Mirzani Djausal has launched the National Cassava Centre at Lampung University, aiming to establish the province as the epicentre of Indonesian cassava development. The initiative seeks to integrate research, technology, investment, and industry to boost productivity and farmer welfare, addressing decades of fragmented development and price volatility. The Minister for National Development Planning has expressed support, envisioning the centre's evolution into an international hub for cassava innovation.

Islamophobia in the US on the Rise, Mosque Attacks Surge 183 Percent

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) has reported a sharp 183 percent increase in incidents targeting mosques and Islamic centres in the United States over the past three months. The surge, which includes a deadly attack in San Diego, has prompted calls for heightened security and vigilance at places of worship. CAIR described Islamophobia as a persistent and 'acceptable' form of hatred in the country, urging community leaders to ensure the safety of their congregations.

Ukraine and US Agree to Accelerate Negotiations to End War

Kyiv and Washington have agreed to intensify diplomatic efforts to bring the war in Ukraine to a swift and just conclusion. The commitment follows high-level talks at the White House between President Donald Trump and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Russia has separately signalled its readiness to continue negotiations and pursue a peaceful resolution to the crisis.

Prabowo: Experts Predict Indonesia's Economy Will Surpass France and Germany in 25 Years

President Prabowo Subianto has cited international expert projections that Indonesia will become the world's fourth-largest economy within 25 years, surpassing nations such as France and Germany. Speaking at the inauguration of government officials, he urged the new graduates to prepare for leadership roles to realise this ambition. He emphasised that the nation is on the cusp of achieving its goal of becoming a modern, self-reliant country.

Trump Irked as Netanyahu Blabs About Iran's Pickaxe Mountain

US President Donald Trump has publicly rebuked Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for openly discussing Iran's underground nuclear facility at Pickaxe Mountain. Trump suggested Netanyahu raised the issue to pressure Washington into remaining entangled in a conflict with Tehran. The criticism came ahead of what Trump later described as a successful meeting between the two leaders at the White House.

Sudden Jumbo Transaction of IDR 9.3 Trillion Hits MAPI

Shares of PT Mitra Adiperkasa Tbk (MAPI) drew attention on Wednesday after a massive negotiated transaction worth IDR 9.32 trillion was recorded. The transaction involved over 6 billion shares at an average price of IDR 1,550, though the parties involved and the purpose remain undisclosed. This activity follows Pacific Universal Investments' acquisition of a 51% controlling stake in the company just two months prior.

Xi Jinping Thought Report Released in Kyrgyz and Russian

A think tank report on Xi Jinping Thought on Party Building has been released in Kyrgyz and Russian languages in Bishkek. The document systematically outlines the core principles and global significance of the ideology, highlighting its relevance for political parties, particularly in the Global South. Attendees at the SCO conference noted the publication would serve as a vital resource for understanding the CPC's governance philosophy and fostering political exchange.

Myanmar Passes Law Mandating Death Penalty for Forced Recruitment in Online Scam Operations

Myanmar's parliament has approved a new anti-online fraud law introducing severe penalties, including the death penalty, for those who force individuals to work as operators in scam centres. The legislation, passed on Tuesday, also stipulates prison sentences ranging from 10 years to life for organisers of such operations. The move comes amid ongoing regional efforts to dismantle criminal scam compounds, with Myanmar recently deporting thousands of foreign nationals and rescuing victims of forced labour.

PAN Mourns Passing of Senior Legislator A Bakri

Ahmad Bakri, a senior member of the House of Representatives (DPR) from the National Mandate Party (PAN), has passed away after a period of illness. Party officials remembered him as a dedicated and loyal cadre who consistently championed the aspirations of the people of Jambi. His death marks a significant loss for the party, which he had served since its founding in 1998.

MRT Jakarta Introduces Contactless Credit Card Payments, a First in Indonesia

The Jakarta provincial government has launched a contactless credit card payment system for MRT Jakarta, allowing passengers to tap in and out without needing to top up an electronic money card. Governor Pramono Anung stated the innovation, which accepts Visa and Mastercard, is the first of its kind in Indonesia. The move aims to strengthen public transport services and provide greater convenience for both residents and tourists.

International Media Tour Explores Aba's Ecological and Cultural Development

A group of international journalists visited the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan, China, to document the region's progress in high-altitude ecological conservation, rural revitalisation, and cultural heritage preservation. The tour highlighted innovative economic initiatives, including a low-altitude flight centre and a yak dairy industry that benefits local communities. The visit also showcased the area's natural wonders and the integration of ancient Qiang and Tibetan traditions with modern development.

Will There Be a Collective Leave Day in August 2026? Check the Joint Ministerial Decree

The Indonesian government has not scheduled any collective leave days for August 2026, according to the Joint Ministerial Decree on National Holidays and Collective Leave. The month features two national holidays, Independence Day on 17 August and the Prophet Muhammad's Birthday on 25 August, both of which create long weekends. The next collective leave day is set for 24 December 2026, ahead of Christmas.

Human Rights Minister Drafts Regulation on Human Rights in Business

The Indonesian government is drafting a regulation to integrate human rights principles into business activities, aiming to strengthen legal certainty and boost investment. Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai stated that future business success will be measured not only by profit but also by a commitment to respecting human rights. The regulation is expected to prevent human rights violations while creating a fair and sustainable business climate.

AGO: State Losses in Free Nutritious Meal Programme Reach Rp10.5 Trillion Per Year

The Attorney General's Office has declared state losses of Rp10.5 trillion per year in the Free Nutritious Meal programme, citing waste uncovered by the BPKP audit. The AGO presented four pieces of evidence against former Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency Lodewyk Pusung during a pretrial hearing. Seven suspects have been named in the corruption case, which involves the appointment of unqualified foundation partners and mark-ups on procurement items including electric motorcycles and tablets.

Not Alibaba, This Is China's Most Valuable Company Targeted by Apple

Chinese memory chip maker ChangXin Memory Technologies (CXMT) has become China's most valuable company following a stellar IPO that saw its share price surge nearly 466%. The company, which now holds a market capitalisation of 3.65 trillion yuan, is reportedly being courted by Apple, which is testing its DRAM chips for future products.

Prabowo: Civil Servants' Performance Determines Public Trust

President Prabowo Subianto has stressed that the performance and decisions of young civil servants are crucial in shaping public trust in the state. Speaking at the inauguration of IPDN graduates, he reminded them that they represent the face of the nation. He warned that poor service could damage public confidence, while good work would strengthen the people's love for the country.

AKBP F to Face Ethics Trial Over Alleged Harassment of Policewoman

A senior police officer in West Sumatra is set to face an ethics trial after being accused of sexually harassing a female subordinate. The internal investigation has been completed, involving nine witnesses and forensic evidence, and the officer's scheduled promotion has been cancelled. The case highlights the Indonesian National Police's stated commitment to enforcing its code of ethics.

HIT Co-hosts Second International Conference on Climate Leadership, Launches Climate Leadership Initiative

Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT) co-hosted the Second International Conference on Climate Leadership, gathering over 300 experts from 23 countries to discuss global climate governance. The conference marked the official launch of the Climate Leadership Initiative, a joint proposal by HIT and the UNDP aimed at bridging climate technology innovation, business practice, and governance. The event underscored the growing role of Chinese academic institutions in shaping the global climate agenda.

SCO sees new opportunities amid evolving global landscape

A new report from a Xinhua think tank highlights significant development opportunities for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) as the global order undergoes rapid transformation. The analysis reviews the bloc's 25-year achievements and outlines prospects for expanded cooperation in areas such as green transition, financial innovation, and security. It positions the SCO as a key force for promoting a fairer international system and building a community with a shared future.

Jakarta Provincial Government to Inaugurate Velodrome-Manggarai LRT in August 2026

The Jakarta Provincial Government has announced the planned inauguration of the LRT Jakarta Phase 1B route from Velodrome to Manggarai for August 2026. The new 6.4-kilometre segment, featuring five stations, is part of a broader 12.2-kilometre line expected to significantly improve the capital's transport connectivity. The entire Kelapa Gading-Manggarai project, costing approximately Rp12.5 trillion, is projected to serve up to 80,000 passengers daily.

The Londo Ireng Survey

A columnist examines the credibility crisis facing pollster Saiful Mujani after he publicly advocated for the removal of President Prabowo Subianto, whose approval ratings his firm, SMRC, subsequently reported as having plummeted. The article argues that while the survey data may be accurate, the owner's partisan activism creates a perceived conflict of interest that undermines public trust. It suggests that greater institutional transparency is required to separate the founder's political engagement from the research institution's work.

300 Tonnes of Waste Cleared from Sempidi TPS 3R Under Official Supervision

The management of the Sempidi waste processing site in Badung, Bali, is racing to clear a backlog of 300 tonnes of rubbish under the direct supervision of environmental law enforcement officers. The cleanup, which involves deploying around 20 trucks daily, follows a formal warning from the Badung Environmental Agency after the site's operations stalled and caused pollution concerns. The site will be equipped with new machinery to process organic and inorganic household waste once the area is completely cleared.

23rd China-ASEAN Expo Enters Final Preparation Phase in Nanning

The 23rd China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO) is set to open in Nanning this September, with 40 Indonesian firms among the first wave of confirmed exhibitors. The event will feature an expanded ASEAN exhibition zone and a focus on high-tech products including artificial intelligence and green energy. Timor-Leste will participate for the first time as an official ASEAN member, while the Philippines takes the spotlight as the themed country.

IRC 2026 Closes with Calls for Agile Governance and Greater Platform Accountability

The International Regulatory Conference 2026 in Kuala Lumpur concluded with a strong emphasis on the need for agile digital governance and enhanced platform accountability. Delegates from across the globe discussed critical issues including online safety, data sovereignty, and the adaptation of legal frameworks to keep pace with rapid technological advancements. The conference highlighted Malaysia's proactive measures, such as issuing over 377,000 content removal requests this year, to build a secure and trustworthy digital ecosystem.

Mineral Exports Stalled by Rare Earth Content, Nickel Industry Speaks Out

The Indonesian Nickel Industry Forum (FINI) has called for proportional and phased policies after mineral exports were held up due to rare earth element (REE) content. Around 120 surveyor reports remain unissued, affecting shipments of processed nickel and bauxite. The industry argues that the presence of REE as a trace element should not automatically reclassify primary export products as prohibited items.

Yogyakarta Government to Investigate Fatal Pothole Incident in Godean

The Yogyakarta Special Region administration has launched an investigation after a 17-year-old motorcyclist died in a crash on a provincial road in Godean, Sleman. The victim reportedly lost control after hitting a hole left by ongoing irrigation repair works. Authorities have pledged to sanction the contractor if safety negligence is proven and have ordered immediate closure of all open excavations along the route.

Riau Police Destroy Rp 9.7 Billion in Narcotics, Saving 197,000 Lives

Riau Regional Police have destroyed a cache of narcotics worth Rp 9.7 billion, including methamphetamine, ecstasy, and etomidate-laced vapes, seized during operations in June and July 2026. The drugs, linked to an international syndicate, were destined for distribution across several Indonesian provinces. Authorities estimate the operation saved nearly 197,000 people from potential drug abuse.

Prabowo: Advanced nations require superior domestic governance

President Prabowo Subianto has stressed that Indonesia needs a superior, efficient, and disciplined domestic government to achieve its ambition of becoming a developed and self-reliant nation. He made the remarks during the inauguration of young civil servants, highlighting their future role as the drivers of bureaucracy and development. Prabowo emphasised that a corruption-free administration prioritising the people's interests is key to national prosperity and welfare.

Red Cross Plane Carrying Medicine Shot Down in Yogyakarta, Killing 3 TNI Soldiers and 5 Crew

A Dakota aircraft bearing Red Cross markings and carrying medical supplies for victims of the Dutch military aggression was shot down over Yogyakarta on 29 July 1947. The attack killed eight people, including three pioneering Indonesian Air Force officers, and sparked international condemnation from Australia, Britain, and India. The three fallen TNI officers were later declared National Heroes and have major airports named in their honour.

Jakarta MRT Introduces Contactless Credit Card Payment System

The Jakarta provincial government and PT MRT Jakarta have launched a contactless credit card payment system for MRT tickets, becoming the first in Indonesia to accept Visa and Mastercard tap-to-pay. Governor Pramono Anung stated the initiative aims to modernise public transport services and align Jakarta with global cities like Singapore and Tokyo. The move is part of broader efforts to integrate digital payment options, including keychain devices and e-wallets, to enhance commuter convenience.

Kelapa Gading-Manggarai LRT Route to be Inaugurated in August, Journey Takes 28 Minutes

Jakarta's Governor has announced that the new 12.2-kilometre LRT route from Pegangsaan Dua to Manggarai will be inaugurated in August 2026, reducing travel time to just 28 minutes. The line features 11 stations and aims to improve north-south connectivity in the capital. The provincial government has also allocated funds to extend the line from Manggarai to Dukuh Atas and has commenced construction of a pedestrian deck to enhance intermodal integration.

Sudaryono Explains Why SPPG Bans Use of 3 Kg LPG and SPHP Rice

The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sudaryono, has clarified the prohibition on using subsidised goods such as 3 kg LPG canisters and SPHP rice in the Free Nutritious Meal programme. He stated that subsidised items are limited and intended for those in need, and the programme's Rp15,000 per portion budget was calculated without relying on them. Sudaryono also emphasised the agency's commitment to transparency, including a system allowing parents to monitor their children's daily menus.

Prabowo: Civil Servants Must Be Present When the People Face Hardship

President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated 1,204 young civil servants from the Institute of Home Affairs Governance (IPDN) and urged them to dedicate themselves to public service. He stressed that their role is not merely a position of rank but a commitment to aiding and protecting the community. The President also commended the graduates for their prior involvement in disaster relief efforts in Aceh.

Japanese Rescue Teams Search for Survivors Trapped in Rubble After 7.1 Magnitude Earthquake

A powerful magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck southwestern Japan's Kumamoto prefecture, killing at least 13 people and causing widespread destruction. Rescue workers are urgently searching for survivors feared trapped beneath a collapsed shopping centre and a damaged paper mill. The quake triggered fires, building collapses, and left tens of thousands of homes without power.

Bekraf-BRIN partner to drive research-based creative economy

Indonesia's Creative Economy Ministry (Bekraf) and the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) have formalised a partnership to develop evidence-based policies for the creative sector. The collaboration will focus on joint research, seed funding, intellectual property protection, and cultural heritage conservation. The initiative aims to support the 2026-2045 Creative Economy Master Plan and bolster the nation's creative competitiveness ahead of the 2026 World Conference on Creative Economy.

Sumarsih Fears the Return of Militarism

Human rights activist Maria Katarina Sumarsih has voiced deep concerns over what she describes as a return to militaristic governance under President Prabowo Subianto's 21-month administration. She cited military-style retreats for officials, the placement of military and police personnel in state institutions, and a series of violent crackdowns on protesters. Sumarsih warned that democracy is being eroded, with civil liberties threatened and state violence against critics becoming increasingly common.

Coordinating Minister Airlangga Invites Chinese Business Delegation to Expand Strategic Investment in Indonesia

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has urged Chinese businesses to broaden their strategic investments in Indonesia, highlighting the country's strong profitability for foreign investors. The government is offering competitive fiscal incentives, including tax holidays, to attract investment in high-value sectors such as manufacturing, downstream processing, and the digital economy. The meeting underscores deepening bilateral economic ties and Indonesia's commitment to fostering mutually beneficial partnerships.