Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 29 July 2026

Showing 1,251-1,300 of 1,531 articles

BKN Chief Relocates 38 Civil Servants to Work Near Their Homes, Here's How

The Head of the National Civil Service Agency (BKN) has executed the second phase of a programme relocating 38 civil servants to workplaces closer to their families and domiciles. The policy, based on a decree issued in July 2026, aims to boost performance and welfare by reducing employees' living costs. BKN hopes this initiative will inspire other government bodies to adopt similar human-centric bureaucratic reforms without compromising public service quality.

When Cocoa Downstreaming Outpaces the Plantations

Indonesia's cocoa processing industry is booming, but domestic bean production is declining due to ageing trees, pests, and low productivity, forcing the nation to import raw materials. While global cocoa shortages and high prices present a strategic opportunity, experts warn that downstream success is unsustainable without urgent investment in farm rehabilitation, superior planting materials, and a national innovation ecosystem.

Bukalapak posts Rp4.0 trillion revenue in first half of 2026

PT Bukalapak.com Tbk (BUKA) reported a 29 per cent year-on-year revenue increase to Rp4.0 trillion for the first half of 2026, driven by strong growth in its gaming and investment segments. The company achieved a positive adjusted EBITDA of Rp10 billion for the period, reflecting ongoing operational discipline and a strategic shift towards higher-margin products. While the Mitra and retail segments saw revenue declines due to a more selective product focus, their contribution margins improved significantly.

Government Digitalisation: From Cumbersome Bureaucracy to Accessible Services

Indonesia is consolidating over 24,000 government applications and implementing the SPBE framework to integrate public services, with over 61% of agencies now connected via the SPLP platform. The initiative aims to streamline bureaucracy, reduce corruption through digital audit trails, and improve service delivery, though challenges remain in infrastructure equity and cybersecurity. The ultimate measure of success is not the number of apps launched, but the ease and transparency experienced by citizens.

Pramono Welcomes Credit Card Tap In/Out on MRT: Now on Par with Tokyo

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has inaugurated a contactless credit card payment system for the MRT, marking the first such implementation in Indonesia. He stated the move elevates Jakarta's public transport to global standards, aligning it with cities like Singapore and Tokyo. Pramono highlighted the system's convenience for international tourists and urged its expansion to other modes of transport.

BPK Reveals 2025 State Budget Deficit at 2.81% of GDP

The Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) has reported that the 2025 state budget deficit reached 2.81% of GDP, remaining within the legally mandated safe threshold. The government described the fiscal policy as expansive yet disciplined, serving as a countercyclical tool to mitigate global challenges and protect public purchasing power. Despite a primary balance deficit, the government highlighted increased domestic investor confidence reflected in higher government bond issuance.

YLKI Urges Government and Operators to Act Promptly as Unused Internet Quota Will No Longer Expire

The Indonesian Consumers Foundation (YLKI) has called on the government, telecommunications operators, and the competition authority to immediately implement a Constitutional Court ruling that prevents unused internet quota from expiring. The foundation views the decision as a crucial step for strengthening consumer rights in the telecommunications sector. YLKI insists that clear regulations, transparent pricing, and strict oversight are needed to ensure the ruling benefits the public without leading to higher costs or anti-competitive practices.

US restricts funding for high-risk gain-of-function research

The Trump administration has introduced a new policy halting federal funding for dangerous gain-of-function research and tightening oversight of high-risk life sciences studies. The Department of Health and Human Services stated the framework prohibits such research while maintaining support for essential vaccine and therapeutic development. The move follows the release of intelligence detailing US funding for over 120 biological laboratories across more than 30 countries, including Ukraine, where facilities reportedly stored Soviet-era biological weapons and handled highly contagious pathogens.

PGEO Posts US$79.62 Million Profit in First Half of 2026

State-owned geothermal energy company PT Pertamina Energy Tbk (PGEO) reported a net profit of US$79.62 million for the first half of 2026, a 15.47% increase from the same period last year. Revenue also saw a significant rise, climbing 14.73% to US$235.03 million, driven by strong operational performance. The company's bottom line was further supported by a foreign exchange gain, contrasting with a loss in the previous year.

Prabowo Instructs IPDN Graduates: Work Honestly and Do Not Corrupt

President Prabowo Subianto has urged newly graduated civil servants from the Institute of Domestic Governance (IPDN) to serve with integrity and reject corruption. Speaking at a ceremony in Jatinangor, he stressed that the public demands a clean, decisive, and present bureaucracy that prioritises the people's interests over personal or group gain. Prabowo warned that any failure in their duty would not only damage their own reputation but also erode public trust in the state.

Pertamax Price Could Change as ESDM Recalculates Economic Viability Amid Global Oil Turmoil

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) is reassessing the economic viability of the non-subsidised Pertamax fuel price due to ongoing global oil market fluctuations. The recalculation will consider Pertamina's cost of supply plus a profit margin, with the government monitoring average oil price trends. A potential price reduction is possible if the average global oil price continues to decline.

Police Raid 'Ghost Town' Scam Operations in Johor, Arrest 335 Including 19 Indonesians

Malaysian police have dismantled two major online scam syndicates operating out of Forest City, Johor, arresting 335 individuals, including 19 Indonesian nationals. The syndicates were involved in fake cryptocurrency investments and love scams, primarily targeting victims in China and Indonesia. Authorities are now hunting the masterminds and coordinating with Interpol, as transnational crime groups relocate to Malaysia following crackdowns in neighbouring countries.

IHSG Potentially Weakens as Market Monitors Global-Domestic Sentiment

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) is expected to face downward pressure on Wednesday as investors adopt a cautious stance ahead of the US Federal Reserve's interest rate decision and digest domestic political uncertainty. Market participants are also weighing the resignation of Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo and its implications for monetary policy transition. Meanwhile, global markets are eyeing US tech earnings and geopolitical developments in the Middle East.

President Prabowo Proud as Farmers' and Workers' Children Rank Among IPDN's Top Graduates

President Prabowo Subianto expressed pride that the top ten graduates of the Institute of Home Affairs Governance (IPDN) Class of 2026 come from humble backgrounds, including children of farmers and labourers. He stated this proves the selection process, managed by the Ministry of Home Affairs, is fair and based on meritocracy. The President emphasised that such outcomes demonstrate the success of Indonesia's national ideology, Pancasila, in providing equal opportunities for all citizens.

Global Arms Giants Hunt for Drone Startups, Investment Reaches IDR 74 Trillion

The world's largest defence contractors, including Lockheed Martin and BAE Systems, are pouring record investments into military technology startups, with venture capital funding reaching $4.1 billion in 2026. The shift in strategy is driven by modern conflicts, such as the war in Ukraine, which have demonstrated the critical role of cheap drones, autonomous systems, and sensors over traditional billion-dollar platforms. This surge in capital is pushing total global defence industry transactions towards a new annual record, surpassing $50 billion.

Yuan, Rupiah, Won Tumble Ahead of Fed Decision, Only 3 Currencies Survive

Most Asian currencies weakened against the US dollar on Wednesday morning as markets adopted a cautious stance ahead of the Federal Reserve's interest rate decision. The Indonesian rupiah breached a new psychological level, while the Malaysian ringgit, Japanese yen, and Singapore dollar managed to post gains. Analysts suggest the dollar remains supported by safe-haven demand amid Middle East tensions and the possibility of a hawkish Fed stance.

KPK Discusses Summoning Perry Warjiyo, Confirms BI CSR Case Still Under Investigation

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has stated that the investigation into the alleged misuse of Bank Indonesia's (BI) corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds is ongoing, and the summoning of former BI Governor Perry Warjiyo depends on investigative needs. The KPK previously searched Warjiyo's office in December 2024 and has named two former members of the House of Representatives Commission XI as suspects. Warjiyo recently submitted his resignation to President Prabowo Subianto, who accepted it and thanked him for his nearly seven years of service.

BI Strengthens Banking Liquidity and Triple Intervention to Maintain Stability, Drive Economy

Bank Indonesia is reinforcing its commitment to financial stability by optimising its monetary policy mix, including triple intervention in the foreign exchange market. The central bank is also managing the issuance of Rupiah Securities (SRBI) to support liquidity and attract foreign capital inflows. These measures are aimed at stabilising the rupiah exchange rate and supporting sustainable economic growth.

Prabowo Tells New Civil Servants: Your Honour is Measured by Your Service, Not Your Rank

President Prabowo Subianto has inaugurated 1,204 new civil servants from the Institute of Public Administration (IPDN) and urged them to prioritise public service over personal status. He highlighted that their honour is determined by the tangible benefits they bring to society, not by their official positions. The President also noted that the graduates had already demonstrated this commitment by assisting with disaster relief in Aceh prior to their inauguration.

President Prabowo inaugurates IPDN graduates, urges clean and decisive bureaucracy

President Prabowo Subianto has officially inaugurated the 33rd cohort of young civil servants from the Institute of Home Affairs Governance (IPDN), calling on them to serve with integrity. He stressed that the Indonesian people need a bureaucracy free from corruption and convoluted processes, and one that is willing to make firm decisions in the field. The President highlighted their crucial role as the main drivers of the government's future national development programmes.

Creative Economy Minister Says Creative Sector is Growth Engine for Transmigration Areas

Minister of Creative Economy Teuku Riefky Harsya has stated that the creative economy will serve as a new engine of growth for transmigration areas by leveraging local potential and innovation. The government plans to deploy Patriot Expedition Teams to identify leading creative sub-sectors and map ecosystem needs in these regions. The initiative aims to boost per capita income and support the development of advanced, self-sufficient villages through programmes such as Creative Village Activation.

How much do exhibitions contribute to Indonesia's vehicle market?

Automotive exhibitions remain a key sales channel for Indonesia's vehicle industry, but experts suggest their role is more as a purchase accelerator than a primary demand driver. Analysis indicates that major events like GIIAS contribute only around 5 per cent to national vehicle sales, with figures often inflated by vehicle order forms rather than actual deliveries.

Denpasar City Government Discusses Charlie Chaplin Statue Plan at Inna Heritage

The Denpasar city government is in talks regarding a proposed statue of legendary comedian Charlie Chaplin outside the Inna Bali Heritage Hotel, citing his historical visit to Bali. While officials see tourism potential, they are also examining legal aspects, including potential royalty issues, before proceeding.

First Half 2026: TINS Profit Soars to Rp 2.71 Trillion, Here's Why

State-owned tin miner PT Timah (TINS) reported a net profit of Rp 2.71 trillion for the first half of 2026, surpassing its full-year target by 169 per cent. The surge was driven by a 247 per cent jump in revenue, fuelled by higher sales volumes and a 57 per cent increase in average tin prices amid tight global supply. The company remains optimistic about the second half, citing sustained demand from the electronics, semiconductor, and energy transition sectors.

Through the Back Door and the First Since the Iran War: What Did Trump and Netanyahu Discuss?

US President Donald Trump held a closed-door meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, their first since joint US-Israeli airstrikes on Iran. The meeting, conducted without media access or a joint press conference, lasted 80 minutes but yielded no official details on the discussions. The unusual format, lacking a one-on-one session, has drawn attention amid heightened regional tensions.

Prabowo Tells IPDN Graduates: The People Do Not Need Convoluted Bureaucracy

President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated 1,204 new civil servants from the Institute of Home Affairs Governance (IPDN), urging them to serve with integrity and avoid bureaucratic red tape. He stressed that the public demands honest, disciplined, and decisive officials who are present in times of need. The President also highlighted that these young public administrators represent the face of the state, and their conduct will determine public trust in the government.

From SOE Official to Pemalang Regent, Anom Widiyantoro Now Arrested by KPK

Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro has been arrested by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in a sting operation, becoming the 12th regional head to be caught in such an operation this year. The former state-owned enterprise official, who was inaugurated in February 2025, was taken into custody on Tuesday, though the specific corruption charges have not yet been disclosed. The arrest underscores the KPK's intensified campaign against graft among regional leaders.

President Prabowo to IPDN Graduates: The Path You Have Chosen Is Full of Obstacles and Sacrifice

President Prabowo Subianto has reminded newly graduated civil servants that their career is a noble but demanding path requiring sacrifice and integrity. Speaking at the IPDN campus in Jatinangor, he stressed that their role is to serve the people, especially in remote and underdeveloped regions. The 1,204 graduates were officially inducted as Pamong Praja Muda and will be deployed across various central and regional government agencies.

1inch Launches Aqua to the Public, the First Shared Liquidity Layer for the DeFi Ecosystem

1inch has publicly launched Aqua, a shared liquidity layer designed to address inefficiencies in the DeFi sector. The new self-custodial model allows liquidity providers to use a single wallet balance across multiple positions without locking assets into traditional pools. To support the launch, the 1inch Foundation and 1inch DAO have allocated 10 million 1INCH tokens and 500,000 USDC in incentives via the Merkl platform.

ESDM Calculates Pertamax Economic Price Amid Global Oil Fluctuations

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) is recalculating the economic price of non-subsidised Pertamax fuel following recent volatility in global crude oil prices. Deputy Minister Yuliot noted that state oil company Pertamina could adjust its selling price if the average global oil price shows a sustained decline. The review comes as benchmark crudes Brent and WTI experienced sharp swings, briefly surging above $100 per barrel before falling back below $84.

Riau Police Chief Awards 133 Personnel for Achievements Including Drug and Mangrove Cases

Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan awarded 133 personnel for their dedication and performance, highlighting major case breakthroughs. The honours recognised achievements ranging from uncovering drug trafficking and illegal arms possession to tackling forestry crimes and preventing the destruction of mangrove areas. The ceremony also acknowledged community foundations for their contributions to infrastructure development.

Ahead of Financial Report Release, Here Are Analyst Recommendations for GOTO Shares

Ahead of GoTo's first-half 2026 financial report, Bloomberg consensus shows 77% of analysts recommend buying GOTO shares, with an average target price of Rp80, indicating a potential 60% upside. The stock has been trading around Rp50 since the government introduced a new regulation cutting ride-hailing driver commissions. Analysts view the current price as an attractive entry point, though they are closely watching the upcoming earnings for clarity on profitability consistency and the impact of the new commission policy.

China starts mass production of home-grown immersion DUV chipmaking tools

China has begun mass-producing domestically developed immersion deep-ultraviolet lithography machines, a significant advance in Beijing's semiconductor self-sufficiency drive. Shanghai Aishengna Electronic Technology Group, a state-owned firm, is leading the effort, though the tools still lag behind ASML's technology and require further testing. The development provides Chinese chipmakers with a potential alternative should Western export restrictions tighten further.

Government Strategy to Face El Nino Threat

The Indonesian government is deploying ground and air task forces, optimising weather modification operations, and preparing water security strategies to prevent drought and forest fires during the upcoming El Nino. Coordinating Minister Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono announced the measures following a limited cabinet meeting led by President Prabowo Subianto. The strategy also includes long-term plans such as seawater desalination and brackish water purification to address national water supply imbalances.

BPOM Finds 4 Local Coffee Brands Containing Heart Attack-Inducing Chemicals, Warns Public

Indonesia's Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) has discovered four local coffee brands adulterated with the prescription drug sildenafil citrate, posing severe health risks including heart attacks and death. The products, marketed as male stamina enhancers, were found to have fictitious distribution permits. The agency warns that such illegal products continue to circulate through online platforms and covert distribution channels.

Poll: Nearly Half of US Citizens Support Benjamin Netanyahu's Arrest

A recent Economist/YouGov poll reveals that 49 per cent of Americans believe their government should enforce the International Criminal Court's arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The survey, conducted in late July 2026, also found that 47 per cent of respondents think Netanyahu is guilty of war crimes in Gaza. The findings come amid ongoing legal debate in the US, where New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani recently clarified he lacks the authority to detain the Israeli leader.

Rupiah Weakens on Reports of Iranian Attack on US Forces

The Indonesian rupiah weakened against the US dollar on Wednesday morning, driven by rising crude oil prices following reports of an Iranian missile attack on US forces in the Middle East. Market sentiment was further dampened by anticipation of hawkish tones from the upcoming Federal Reserve meeting and domestic political uncertainty after the resignation of Bank Indonesia's governor. The currency is expected to trade within a tight range amid these external and internal pressures.

Prabowo Inaugurates 1,204 IPDN Graduates as Young Civil Servants

President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated 1,204 new graduates of the Institute of Home Affairs Governance (IPDN) as young civil servants in a ceremony in Jatinangor, West Java. The President emphasised their duty to serve the people and highlighted their recent involvement in disaster relief efforts in Aceh. The event was attended by several senior ministers and top government officials.

KPK Detains Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro in Sting Operation

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro during a sting operation in Central Java. Several individuals were taken to the Pemalang Police Station for questioning, though the exact number of suspects and evidence seized have not yet been disclosed. The operation marks another high-profile case in the KPK's ongoing anti-corruption efforts targeting regional leaders.

KPK Weighs Summoning Ex-BI Chief Perry Warjiyo; Police Reveal Whip Pink Sold in Nightclubs

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has indicated it may summon former Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo as a witness in the CSR fund corruption case, while the National Police's Criminal Investigation Unit disclosed that the nitrous oxide product 'Whip Pink' was being distributed in Jakarta nightlife venues. Separately, the Judicial Commission advanced 23 candidates for Supreme Court justice positions, and the Attorney General's Office examined seven witnesses in a money laundering case involving a former senior prosecutor.

Indonesian Issuer HOPE Eyes Fundraising for Mine Acquisition and Heavy Equipment Venture

PT Harapan Duta Pertiwi Tbk (HOPE) is exploring a strategic partnership with a Chinese firm to enter the mining heavy equipment business, involving potential local assembly and a rights issue. The company also plans to acquire a controlling stake in PT Tambang Meranti Mulia Sejahtera, with the transaction valued between Rp257 billion and Rp317 billion.

President Prabowo Inaugurates 1,204 IPDN Graduates, Awards Top Honours to Children of Farmers and Labourers

President Prabowo Subianto has inaugurated 1,204 young civil servants from the Institute of Home Affairs Governance (IPDN) in Jatinangor, West Java. During the ceremony, he personally administered their oaths and presented the highest academic awards to top graduates, including the son of a farmer. The new officers are expected to strengthen the professional regeneration of the state apparatus, particularly in underdeveloped and frontier regions.

US Detains Foreign Nationals with Expired Visas at Airports

The United States has begun detaining foreign nationals with expired visas at airports during domestic flights, including spouses of US citizens and immigrants with valid work permits. The detentions, which have affected over 24 people, reportedly stem from expanded cooperation between the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Previously, migrants awaiting administrative processing without criminal records were rarely detained at US airports.

Profile and Wealth of Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro Arrested in KPK Sting Operation

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro in a sting operation. Widiyantoro, a former state-owned enterprise executive, was sworn in as regent in February 2025 after winning the local election with 44.51 percent of the vote. The KPK has yet to disclose the specific corruption allegations or the identities of other parties detained alongside him.

Agriculture Minister Amran Asks Sudaryono to Strengthen BGN's Role as Offtaker for Free Nutritious Meals Programme

Minister of Agriculture Andi Amran Sulaiman has called on the newly appointed Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sudaryono, to bolster the agency's function as an offtaker of agricultural produce for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. Amran expressed confidence that the synergy between the Ministry and BGN will expand market access for farmers and improve their welfare. The Minister also noted that the appointment of his former deputy is a significant mandate from President Prabowo Subianto, and the Ministry fully supports the collaboration despite the loss of a dedicated colleague.

DPR to Summon Home Affairs Minister and Regional Heads to Address Regional Fiscal Issues

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) Commission II will hold a hearing with the Home Affairs Minister and regional leaders to tackle pressing regional fiscal problems. The meeting will focus on reformulating the Transfer to Regions (TKD) scheme and identifying areas requiring urgent financial relief from the state budget. Discussions will also cover local taxes and levies to boost Regional Original Income (PAD), with the aim of stimulating both regional and national economic growth.

Antam Gold Bullion Price Falls by Rp 12,000 Today, Time to Buy?

The price of gold bullion produced by PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) dropped by Rp 12,000 to Rp 2,601,000 per gram on Wednesday, 29 July 2026. This decline extends the previous session's correction, though the price remains above the psychological level of Rp 2.6 million. The buyback price also weakened, falling by Rp 15,000 to Rp 2,346,000 per gram.

House Demands Thorough Investigation into Sutrimo's Death: Condition Resembles Poisoning

The House of Representatives' Commission III has urged the police to conduct a transparent and thorough investigation into the death of Sutrimo, whose body was found foaming at the mouth and nose. Lawmakers stressed the need for scientific forensic examination to determine the cause of death and prevent public speculation. The victim was reportedly the household head for a former senior official at the Attorney General's Office.

KPK Seals Offices and Homes in Pemalang Regent Sting Operation

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has sealed several locations in Pemalang, Central Java, following a sting operation that resulted in the arrest of Regent Anom Widiyantoro. Among the sealed sites are the office of the Head of the Public Works and Spatial Planning Department and two houses belonging to a contractor said to be a relative of the regent. The KPK has confirmed the arrest but has yet to disclose the full details of the case or the total number of individuals detained.

Aceh Police Dismiss Officer Involved in Gold Shop Robbery

The Aceh Regional Police have dishonourably discharged Briptu MZ after an ethics tribunal found him guilty of participating in an armed robbery of a gold shop in South Aceh. The officer was proven to have used his service firearm during the crime, leading to his immediate dismissal. Criminal proceedings against the former officer are ongoing alongside the internal disciplinary action.