Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 29 July 2026

Showing 1,201-1,250 of 1,531 articles

Police reveal new method to reduce traffic violations among students

Traffic violations among students in Batam have fallen sharply after a road safety curriculum was introduced in schools at the start of 2026. The programme, integrated into civics lessons, saw junior high school violations drop from 1,386 to 462 cases and senior high school cases fall from 2,307 to 1,157. Police say the early educational approach is proving effective in building long-term traffic discipline.

BUKA Maintains Positive Adjusted EBITDA Trend Since Start of Year

PT Bukalapak.com Tbk (BUKA) reported a 29% increase in first-half revenue to Rp 4.0 trillion, driven by strong growth in its gaming segment. The company maintained a positive adjusted EBITDA of Rp 10 billion for the first half of 2026, a significant turnaround from the previous year's loss. Management attributed the improved performance to operational discipline and a strategic focus on higher-margin products across its business segments.

Prabowo Urges Civil Servants to Serve: The People Do Not Need Red Tape

President Prabowo Subianto has called on newly graduated civil servants to prioritise public service and reject convoluted bureaucracy. Addressing IPDN graduates, he stressed that the people demand honest, disciplined, and corruption-free officials who are always present for the community. Prabowo warned that the conduct of these officers directly reflects the state's presence and trustworthiness in the eyes of the public.

Causes Behind the Sudden 1.5% Plunge in the Composite Stock Price Index

The Indonesian Composite Stock Price Index (IHSG) fell sharply by 1.51% during the first trading session on Wednesday, driven by significant losses in the property and utility sectors. Heavyweight stocks such as Amman Mineral Internasional and Barito Renewables Energy were the primary drags on the index. The cautious sentiment was further compounded by investor wariness ahead of the US Federal Reserve's interest rate decision.

BI Governor's Resignation, Fiscal Dominance, and Risk Premium

The resignation of Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo has triggered market uncertainty, weakening the rupiah and shares while widening Indonesia's credit default swap spread. Investor concerns are mounting over the central bank's independence and the potential for fiscal dominance, where monetary policy becomes subordinated to government financing needs. Historical parallels in Brazil and Egypt illustrate how such dynamics can lead to higher inflation, currency instability, and constrained economic growth.

MPR Deputy Speaker Eddy Soeparno Mourns Passing of PAN Legislator HA Bakri

Eddy Soeparno, Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), has expressed his condolences following the death of HA Bakri, a member of the House of Representatives from the National Mandate Party (PAN). Soeparno described Bakri as a kind-hearted individual who was dedicated to his constituents and consistently fulfilled his duties. Bakri, who represented the Jambi electoral district, passed away at Siloam Hospital.

Lazismu Marks 24th Anniversary, Strengthens Islamic Philanthropy and Mustahik Empowerment

Lazismu, the Islamic philanthropic institution, celebrates its 24th anniversary by reinforcing its commitment to professional and impactful zakat management. The organisation has expanded its reach across Indonesia through six empowerment pillars, including education, health, and economic development. Leadership emphasised that integration is key to delivering sustainable programmes that enhance community welfare.

UNIDO Recognises Indonesia as Best Practice Example for Downstreaming Industry

The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) has recognised Indonesia's downstreaming strategy as a global best practice in its 2026 Industrial Development Report. The report highlights Indonesia's success in critical mineral processing and electric vehicle ecosystem development. Indonesian officials stated the recognition validates the country's industrial transformation and will strengthen its position in global value chains.

Hoegeng Awards 2026 Ceremony to Honour Five Exemplary Police Officers on 31 July

The pinnacle of the Hoegeng Awards 2026 will take place on 31 July at The Tribrata Darmawangsa in South Jakarta, where five exemplary police officers will be honoured. The event, themed 'People's Trust, Bhayangkara's Honour', will be attended by National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo and other state officials. The awards recognise dedication, innovation, and integrity across five categories, with winners selected from thousands of candidates by a panel of experts.

Ciputat SPPG Security Guard Steals 1,700 Free Nutritious Meal Trays to Buy Drugs

A security guard at a government-backed free meal programme kitchen in Ciputat, South Tangerang, has been arrested for stealing 1,700 stainless steel food trays. Police stated the suspect sold the trays to a scrap dealer and used the proceeds to purchase methamphetamine. The case highlights vulnerabilities in the implementation of the national Makan Bergizi Gratis initiative.

Underground Pedestrian Tunnel at Bundaran HI Targeted for Completion by June 2027

Construction of an underground pedestrian tunnel connecting buildings around Jakarta's Bundaran HI roundabout has reached 22 percent progress. The project, managed by MRT Jakarta, is scheduled for completion by June 2027, coinciding with the city's 500th anniversary. The tunnel aims to improve public transport connectivity and pedestrian access, linking four buildings and the MRT station.

Millions of Americans Face Growing Hardship as Food Aid Is Slashed to Fund Trump Tax Cuts

The Trump administration's One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) has begun reshaping America's largest food assistance programme, SNAP, leading to a 12% drop in participants. The reforms, which expand work requirements and shift administrative costs to states, are designed to cut federal spending by 20% over a decade to help finance tax cuts. State governments, facing increased fiscal pressure and complex new error-rate penalties, are tightening verification processes, raising concerns that eligible vulnerable people, including the elderly and disabled, may lose access to essential food aid.

Video: Yemeni and Russian Tourists Flock to Indonesia, Has Tourism Recovered?

Indonesia's tourism sector, a key economic driver, is still facing a 4% decline compared to pre-pandemic levels according to OECD data. While overall visitor numbers are rising, the composition of tourists has shifted, with a notable increase in arrivals from Yemen and Russia. The report suggests Indonesia could learn from Japan's streamlined tourism systems to further boost the sector's recovery.

Banjar Juwuk Legi-Desa Batunya: A Haven for Vegetable and Citrus Production

The agricultural sector remains the economic backbone of Batunya Village in Tabanan, Bali, with 80% of residents working as farmers. The region is experiencing a surge in citrus production, which inspired the name of the Banjar Juwuk Legi hamlet, while farmers are also diversifying into marigold cultivation to boost incomes. Local produce, including tomatoes, cabbage, and broccoli, is marketed beyond Bali to other islands.

Israel's Pattern of Obstructing US-Iran Peace Revealed, Echoing Iraq-Iran War and Nuclear Deal

Former Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif claims Israel has a decades-long pattern of obstructing peace between the US and Iran. Declassified documents and academic research reportedly show successive Israeli governments worked to prolong the Iran-Iraq War and scuttle diplomatic initiatives. The strategic goal, Zarif argues, has consistently been to maintain US-Iran confrontation and preserve Israel's influence over American Middle East policy.

SiCepat Expands into B2B Logistics to Capitalise on Indonesia's High Distribution Costs

Indonesian logistics company SiCepat is expanding beyond e-commerce into the business-to-business (B2B) sector, targeting manufacturers, distributors, and the mining industry. The move aims to capitalise on the country's high logistics costs, which currently stand at 14 per cent, as the government targets a reduction to 8 per cent. The company has launched a new integrated service, SiCepat Logistik, offering full truckload, warehousing, and freight forwarding solutions.

The Era of Energy Security: Time for Indonesia to Build Energy Storage

As global energy security paradigms shift from mere production to storage and management, Indonesia faces a critical need to develop comprehensive energy storage infrastructure. The article argues that while the government prioritises energy self-sufficiency, strategic reserves, pumped storage, batteries, and hydrogen systems remain underemphasised. Leveraging its nickel resources and existing oil and gas infrastructure could position Indonesia as a key player in the energy storage industry, supporting both domestic stability and global market opportunities.

Gold Prices for Galeri24, Antam, and UBS at Pegadaian Today

Pegadaian's gold prices as of Wednesday morning show Antam at Rp2,706,000 per gram, Galeri24 at Rp2,573,000, and UBS at Rp2,586,000. The prices are subject to change at any time. The available quantities vary by brand, with Galeri24 offering up to 1 kilogram, UBS up to 500 grams, and Antam limited to 100 grams at Pegadaian outlets.

New Suspect in Little Aresha Daycare Abuse Case Skips Questioning

One of five new suspects in the child abuse case at Little Aresha daycare in Yogyakarta failed to attend a police interview. The suspect, a caregiver, requested a postponement as her lawyer was unavailable. Police have now named 32 suspects in the case, where children were allegedly tied up and mistreated, with the motive believed to be economic.

Chengdu's Allure Through the Lens of the APEC Digital Week

Chengdu is hosting the 2026 APEC Digital and AI Ministerial Meeting, highlighting its emergence as a major hub for digital innovation in western China. The city's advanced computing infrastructure and trillion-yuan electronics and AI industries are being showcased as a model for regional cooperation. The event underscores a strategic shift to expand the Asia-Pacific digital economy footprint beyond coastal regions.

After Sting on Pemalang Regent, KPK Seals DPUPR Office and Two Houses in Mutiara Residence

The KPK has sealed the office of the Public Works and Spatial Planning Department head and two private residences in Pemalang following the sting operation that ensnared the regent. Detained individuals are being questioned at the local police station, though the KPK has yet to disclose their identities or the specific details of the case. The sealed locations suggest the investigation may be linked to infrastructure or spatial planning projects within the regency.

Indonesia and Cambodia Explore Cooperation in State Apparatus Empowerment

Indonesia and Cambodia are exploring bilateral cooperation in public sector governance, bureaucratic reform, and civil service empowerment. The initiative was discussed during a meeting between Indonesian Minister Rini Widyantini and Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister Hun Many in Jakarta. Both nations signed a joint statement to pursue strategic collaboration, including digital transformation and human resource development.

JCI Falls 1.51% Below 6,050 Amid Broad Sell-Off

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) slumped 1.51% to 6,037.81 by mid-session on Wednesday, driven by widespread selling pressure. Market participants are adopting a cautious stance ahead of the Federal Reserve's interest rate decision, which is widely expected to hold rates steady. The decline saw 573 stocks fall, with the index touching an intraday low of 6,029.32.

Pramono Communicates with Bahlil on Hydrogen Use for Transjakarta

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has confirmed initial discussions with Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia regarding the adoption of hydrogen fuel for Transjakarta buses. The Jakarta provincial government is currently preparing a feasibility study, with several vehicle manufacturers expressing interest in donating units for a pilot project in the capital. The initiative aligns with a broader national push for hydrogen, recently highlighted by the launch of a dual-fuel bus pilot and a green hydrogen corridor connecting Jakarta, Karawang, and Patimban.

M7.1 Earthquake Strikes Japan, Indonesian Embassy Confirms All Citizens Safe

A powerful magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck Kumamoto on Japan's Kyushu island, causing infrastructure damage and casualties. The Indonesian Embassy in Tokyo has confirmed that all Indonesian nationals in the affected areas are safe, with no reports of casualties among them.

Prabowo Inaugurates IPDN Graduates, Stresses Clean and Corruption-Free Bureaucracy

President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated the 33rd cohort of young civil servants from the Institute of Domestic Governance (IPDN) in Jatinangor, West Java. He emphasised that the honour of a state apparatus is measured by tangible benefits to the public, not rank, and called for a bureaucracy that is honest, disciplined, and free from corruption. The graduates had previously been deployed for a month to assist with natural disaster management in Aceh.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman Says AI Singularity Era Has Begun, Warns of Rival Anthropic's 'Scary' Vision

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has declared that the world has entered the 'singularity' era, a phase where artificial intelligence surpasses human capabilities. While expressing optimism about the benefits, Altman criticised unnamed AI leaders, seemingly targeting Anthropic's Dario Amodei, for promoting a 'scary' vision of the future. His comments come as Anthropic calls for global mechanisms to pause advanced AI development due to safety risks.

Prabowo to IPDN Graduates: The People Do Not Need Convoluted Bureaucracy and Corrupt Officials

President Prabowo Subianto delivered a stern warning to 1,204 new graduates of the Institute of Home Affairs Governance (IPDN), urging them to become public servants who facilitate rather than complicate public services. He stressed that their primary identity is as servants of the people, demanding integrity, discipline, and a clean record free from corruption. The President also reminded the young civil servants that they represent the face of the state, and their conduct will determine public perception of the government's presence.

Jakarta Governor Pramono Urges Finance Ministry to Expedite Regional Bond Review

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has welcomed the Finance Ministry's plan to review the proposed issuance of regional bonds, urging officials to accelerate the process. The Jakarta administration is seeking alternative financing for strategic projects beyond the regional budget. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, however, has questioned the necessity of the Rp3.5 trillion bond issuance, noting the capital city still holds substantial unspent funds.

Jatiluhur Security Guard Remembered as Dedicated Father, Family Awaits Justice

Sumarno, a security guard at Jatiluhur Reservoir found dead in handcuffs, is remembered by his family as a dedicated father and active community member. The family has placed their full trust in the police investigation and is focusing on supporting his grieving wife and two children. Authorities and the company are considering scholarship assistance for the children's education.

Criticised by Pigai Over Beggar Capture Contest, KDM Affirms Protection for Victims and Perpetrators

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has responded to criticism from Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai regarding a bounty contest for capturing beggars, stating the initiative aims to protect both victims and perpetrators. He argued that crime victims suffer human rights violations through loss of security and property, and often cannot claim hospital fees via the national health insurance. Mulyadi assured that the provincial government will cover medical costs for both victims and injured offenders.

Case File Against Doctor Tifa Returned to East Jakarta Court, Trial to Resume

The case file against Tifauziah Tyassuma, known as Doctor Tifa, has been resubmitted to the East Jakarta District Court after prosecutors revised their indictment. The trial, concerning allegations she spread false news about President Joko Widodo's diploma, is scheduled to resume on 6 August 2026. A previous indictment was thrown out by the panel of judges for being unclear and imprecise.

Riau Police Chief: Public Trust Is Key to a Healthy Institution

Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan has stressed that public trust is the cornerstone of a healthy institution, urging his personnel to enhance public service. He made the remarks during a ceremony honouring 123 officers and 10 community members for their dedication and service. The Chief highlighted that institutional strength is measured not only by sanctions but also by recognising achievements that build public confidence.

Why business leaders are souring on AI

Despite record investment, corporate confidence in artificial intelligence is waning as the high costs of large language models fail to translate into measurable productivity gains. A 2025 MIT report found that 95 percent of generative AI pilot programmes have not met their objectives, while companies also face growing risks of inadvertently handing over proprietary data to major model providers. The tension is exemplified by a dispute between Anthropic and Figma, where the AI firm allegedly used insights from a partnership to launch a competing design tool.

Banten Governor Orders Officials to Guarantee Water Supply Amid Prolonged Dry Season

Banten Governor Andra Soni has instructed his administration to ensure residents receive clean water as a prolonged dry season threatens widespread drought across the province. Technical teams are currently assessing groundwater depths before physical infrastructure work begins. The Regional Disaster Management Agency reports that 105 sub-districts are at risk, with emergency water aid already distributed to 139 villages.

Huawei Launches Latest Xinghe AI Campus Solution for Southern Africa

Huawei has introduced its new Xinghe AI Campus solution in Southern Africa, aiming to accelerate digital transformation with secure, intelligent connectivity. The solution features Wi-Fi 7, AI-powered network autonomy, and comprehensive security capabilities including quantum-resistant cryptography. The launch was accompanied by the 'AirEngine Wi-Fi 7 CSI Sensing Challenge' awards to encourage adoption of the technology across various industries.

The Etiquette of Students Entering an Islamic Study Assembly

Hadratussyekh KH Hasyim Asyari outlines the proper conduct for students entering a study assembly, emphasising respect for the teacher and fellow attendees. The guidance, drawn from his work 'Adab al Alim wa al Mutaalim', details protocols for greeting, seating arrangements, and maintaining an undisturbed learning environment. These teachings underscore the importance of adab (etiquette) in traditional Islamic education.

Indonesia's Giant EV Battery Plant Ready to Operate, Here's the Owner

Indonesia's massive electric vehicle battery plant, built by a consortium including China's CATL, is complete and ready to begin production in Karawang, West Java. The facility, with an initial capacity of 6.9 GWh, marks a significant milestone in the country's downstream nickel processing strategy. The project is part of a larger US$5.9 billion integrated battery ecosystem spanning mining to recycling.

Observer Questions Legal Basis of Money Laundering Case Against Former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah

Legal practitioner Muhammad Kapitra Ampera has questioned the predicate crime underlying the money laundering charges against former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) Febrie Adriansyah. Kapitra argued that the Attorney General's Office must clearly explain the origin of the funds and the initial criminal act, such as bribery or extortion, to avoid public confusion. The case has drawn significant attention following searches, the detention of Adriansyah, and related controversies including the death of his alleged household manager.

Indonesia reaffirms sustainable forest management commitment in ASEAN

Indonesia has reiterated its dedication to sustainable forest management as a cornerstone of national development, balancing economic growth with environmental protection. At a recent ASEAN meeting, the government highlighted progress in digital monitoring, the expansion of its Social Forestry Programme to 8.4 million hectares, and new carbon trading regulations. The country also called for stronger regional collaboration on green investment and the bioeconomy to accelerate climate action.

Prabowo: If a Labourer's Child Graduates from IPDN, Who Knows, They Might Become a Great Leader

President Prabowo Subianto has highlighted the success of the top ten graduates from the Institute of Home Affairs Governance (IPDN), all from humble backgrounds, as proof that Indonesia's meritocracy is functioning. He stated that parental occupation or economic status should no longer hinder citizens from achieving and serving the nation. The President emphasised the government's commitment to providing equal opportunities for all, based on ability and integrity.

KPK Arrests Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro, Seals Public Works Office

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has conducted a sting operation resulting in the arrest of Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro. The anti-graft body has sealed the office of the Public Works and Spatial Planning Agency and two residential properties. Those detained are currently undergoing questioning at the Pemalang police station.

ESDM Coordinates to Resolve Critical Mineral Export Issues

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) is coordinating with law enforcement and mining directorates to address the stalled export of critical minerals containing rare earth elements (REE). The government insists that raw REE materials must be processed domestically to add value and support national industries, including defence. A cross-ministerial meeting chaired by the Presidential Chief of Staff aims to resolve regulatory gaps that have left numerous export shipments in limbo.

Malaysia foreign minister calls for review of UNHCR presence amid Rohingya refugee tensions

Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan has urged a review of the UN refugee agency's operations in the country, demanding stricter joint screening of refugees following the detention of over 100 Rohingya asylum seekers in Kuala Lumpur. The minister argued that the UNHCR's presence attracts more refugees and burdens the nation, while rights groups like Amnesty International condemned the detentions and called for humane treatment. Malaysia, which is not a signatory to the UN refugee convention, hosts around 126,000 UNHCR-registered Rohingya who are often viewed as illegal migrants.

BGN: 13 MBG Nutrition Service Units Operating in Papua Highlands

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has confirmed that 13 Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) service units are now operational across the Papua Highlands region. The programme, which includes five units in Jayawijaya Regency, aims to improve nutrition for beneficiaries despite previous temporary disruptions. Officials emphasised that all meals meet strict hygiene and nutritional standards.

Prabowo says IPDN graduates will drive Indonesia's economic bureaucracy in 2050

President Prabowo Subianto has tasked young civil servants from the Institute of Home Affairs Governance (IPDN) with spearheading Indonesia's bureaucracy as the nation aims to become the world's fourth-largest economy by 2050. He stressed that grand policies would fail without dedicated field implementation. The president urged the graduates to uphold Pancasila, serve humbly, and prioritise the interests of ordinary citizens.

Oil Prices Jump 4% as US Stockpiles Shrink and OPEC+ Signals Production Hold

Global oil prices surged by over 4% on Wednesday, recovering from a sharp sell-off, driven by a significant drawdown in US crude inventories and signals that OPEC+ may delay planned output increases. The rally was further supported by ongoing geopolitical tensions disrupting key shipping lanes, despite diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict. The rebound nearly erased the previous session's losses, which were triggered by tentative hopes for a resolution in the Middle East.

Educating with Heart: It's Time for Pesantren to Strengthen Empathetic and Educational Care

A growing discourse calls for Indonesia's Islamic boarding schools, or pesantren, to modernise their disciplinary methods by shifting from punitive measures to more empathetic and educational approaches. While discipline remains a cornerstone of pesantren life, educators argue that fostering moral awareness through dialogue and personal mentoring is more effective for today's generation of students. This transformation is framed not as adopting a foreign culture, but as reviving the compassionate spirit of Islamic education itself.

Indonesia, Japan deepen labor cooperation to develop skilled workers

Indonesia and Japan are strengthening bilateral cooperation to develop a skilled workforce, with Coordinating Minister Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar discussing the finalisation of a Memorandum of Cooperation on the Employment Skill Development Program in Tokyo. Indonesia proposed a clearer transition mechanism for workers moving into Japan's Specified Skilled Worker scheme and urged visa fee facilitation to ensure legal and protected migration pathways. The initiative is part of a broader effort to build a competitive Indonesian workforce and expand access to international job markets, including through the SMK Go Global vocational programme.

Tax and Public Trust: The Key to Realising Sustainable Development

Taxation serves not only as state revenue but as a barometer of trust between the government and its citizens. Effective, transparent, and accountable management of tax funds is essential to foster public compliance and finance sustainable, equitable development. Strengthening transparency, accountability, and public education on taxation is crucial for ensuring these funds translate into tangible public benefits.