Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 29 July 2026

Showing 1,401-1,450 of 1,531 articles

JCI Falls for Fifth Consecutive Day, Foreign Investors Hunt These Shares on Tuesday (28/7)

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) extended its losing streak to five days, closing 0.89% lower at 6,130.18 on Tuesday. The property and real estate sector led the broad-based decline, while foreign investors recorded significant net purchases in select stocks. Notable foreign net buys included PT Timah Tbk (TINS), PT Barito Pacific Tbk (BRPT), and PT Bank Central Asia Tbk (BBCA).

Saudi Arabia Intercepts Drones from Yemen and Iraq

Saudi Arabia's air defence systems intercepted multiple drones launched from Iraq and Yemen targeting oil facilities in the Eastern Province. The attacks occurred ahead of a planned visit by the Iraqi prime minister, prompting Riyadh to urge Baghdad to prevent its territory from being used as a launchpad. Iran has denied any involvement in the attacks.

Baznas Distributes ZChicken Programme in North Sumatra to Boost Mustahik Economy

The National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) has launched its ZChicken economic empowerment programme in Langkat Regency, North Sumatra, providing fried chicken business packages worth Rp10 million each to 30 beneficiaries. The initiative, which has established over 2,200 outlets nationally since 2018, aims to transform zakat recipients into entrepreneurs and support the government's efforts to alleviate extreme poverty. The programme includes equipment, capital, training, and mentoring to foster economic independence among the underprivileged.

RI, Cambodia discuss human trafficking and public sector reform

Indonesia and Cambodia have agreed to deepen cooperation on bureaucratic reform and digital transformation during high-level talks in Jakarta. The two nations also discussed joint efforts to combat cross-border human trafficking linked to online scams, as well as expanding people-to-people ties through youth engagement and sports diplomacy. Cambodia expressed interest in using Indonesia's para-sports training facilities in Solo to develop its athletes.

Minister Pigai on Bounty for Catching Street Criminals: Unethical, Hopefully Just a Joke

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has expressed concern over a bounty programme announced by West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi, warning it could endanger civilians. Pigai stated that allowing untrained citizens to apprehend street criminals risks inciting physical violence and bloodshed, deeming the practice unethical. He expressed hope that the governor's announcement was merely a joke and not a serious policy.

Safeguarding the city from fear

The Surabaya city government and law enforcement are intensifying efforts to combat premanisme, a form of organised intimidation that erodes public trust and legal certainty. The issue extends beyond physical violence to include illegal levies and asset disputes, threatening the security of economic activity. A dedicated task force has been formed to tackle these practices and restore a sense of safety in public spaces.

Jakarta Provincial Government to End Open Dumping Practices by 2029

The Jakarta Provincial Government has announced a roadmap to completely phase out open dumping at the Bantargebang landfill by 2029. The plan, aligned with national targets, involves a gradual transition to controlled landfill systems and a significant increase in waste processing capacity within the city. Authorities emphasise that the success of this transformation hinges on active public participation in reducing and sorting waste at the source.

Facing Forest Fire Risks, Government Readies Land, Air Task Forces and Weather Modification Operations

The Indonesian government is bolstering its preparedness for potential forest and land fires as the El Niño phenomenon coincides with the dry season. Coordinating Minister Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono announced the deployment of integrated land and air task forces alongside weather modification operations. The measures aim to accelerate fire suppression and secure water levels in reservoirs and lakes across vulnerable provinces.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Finalises Educational Material to Prevent Spread of LGBTQ Culture

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs is developing educational materials to prevent the spread of LGBTQ culture, which will be integrated into religious subjects across all religious educational institutions. The collaborative effort involves all directorates of religious education, with the final policy requiring consensus across different faiths. The material aims to build awareness among students while respecting human dignity and preventing bullying.

President Prabowo to Inaugurate 1,204 IPDN Graduates as Young Government Administrators

President Prabowo Subianto is set to personally inaugurate 1,204 graduates of the Institute of Domestic Governance (IPDN) as young civil administrators (Pamong Praja Muda) in a ceremony in West Java. The new cohort, comprising 728 men and 476 women, will be deployed to central and regional government posts across Indonesia, including underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost regions. The event underscores the government's focus on strengthening the civil service with a new generation of public administrators.

NASA's Rp 415 Million Toilet Turns Urine into Drinking Water

NASA has developed a US$23 million (Rp 415 million) space toilet capable of recycling urine into drinking water. The Universal Waste Management System (UWMS) uses a multi-step filtration and catalytic process to achieve a 98% recycling rate, producing water that reportedly exceeds the quality standards of most municipal supplies in the US. One unit is already on the International Space Station, with a second destined for the Orion capsule on the Artemis II mission.

Koster to Summon Village Chiefs After Suspected Chicken Thief Beaten to Death in Tabanan

Bali Governor Wayan Koster plans to gather village heads in Baturiti, Tabanan, following the fatal mob attack on a suspected chicken thief. He urged communities not to take the law into their own hands and stressed that local officials must maintain security. Police are continuing to gather evidence in the ongoing investigation into the deadly assault.

Indonesia assures markets of stability amid Bank Indonesia transition

The Financial System Stability Committee has moved to reassure markets that monetary and financial policies will remain solid and investor-friendly during the leadership transition at Bank Indonesia. Senior Deputy Governor Destry Damayanti has assumed the role of Acting Governor, with officials expressing confidence in her extensive experience. The government has yet to name a permanent successor, who will require confirmation by the House of Representatives.

Deputy Minister Invites Kadin to Invest in Developing Transmigration Areas

Deputy Minister of Transmigration Viva Yoga Mauladi has urged the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) to invest in 154 priority transmigration areas to boost commodity value and create new economic growth centres. The government has identified diverse regional potentials, from palm oil and rice to fisheries, with some commodities already being exported to China and the United States. The initiative aims to shift from a top-down approach to a decentralised model based on local government proposals, with 61 new area proposals already received.

Bukalapak Posts Rp 4 Trillion Revenue in First Half of 2026

PT Bukalapak.com Tbk reported a 29% year-on-year revenue increase to Rp 4 trillion for the first half of 2026, driven by strong growth in its gaming segment. The company also saw its adjusted EBITDA turn positive, reaching Rp 10 billion, as it focused on operational discipline and profitability. While the gaming and investment segments expanded, revenue from the Mitra and retail segments declined due to a more selective product strategy.

DBS Investment Strategy: Capitalise on Global Moments from a New Capex Cycle

DBS's Chief Investment Office highlights a widening gap between political expectations and policy outcomes, driven by geopolitics and fiscal expansion, which is fuelling a more inflation-prone macro era. The bank advises investors to look beyond traditional 60/40 portfolios, favouring alternative diversifiers like gold and select commodities, while positioning for a new super-cycle in capital expenditure driven by AI and energy. This shift comes as major central banks adopt a more hawkish stance, challenging old portfolio assumptions.

Home Affairs Minister Tito Prepares Options for Regional Governments Struggling to Pay Civil Servant Salaries

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian is developing a budget top-up scheme for regional governments facing difficulties in paying civil servant salaries. He stressed that this central government intervention would be a last resort. Regional administrations are first required to implement efficiency measures, boost locally generated revenue, and utilise revenue-sharing funds.

Rafa Nadal Tennis Centre, First in Southeast Asia, to be Built in Lombok

The Rafa Nadal Tennis Centre is set to open its first Southeast Asian facility within the Samara Lombok development in Central Lombok, scheduled to begin operations in 2028. The project, which includes four tennis courts and four padel courts, aims to bolster Lombok's status as an international sport tourism destination. The development is part of a larger integrated resort featuring boutique hotels, villas, and a Destination by Hyatt hotel, expected to drive property investment in the region.

Performance of Aceh PRR Task Force and Real Efforts to Restore the Land of Rencong

The Head of the Regional Post for the Aceh PRR Task Force, Safrizal Zakaria Ali, has detailed the unit's progress in accelerating post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction in Sumatra. He emphasised the need for strong coordination and rapid local decision-making to address the extensive damage in the region. The official also highlighted the importance of disaster mitigation and the role of local disaster management agencies in vulnerable areas.

Yesterday: Danantara in KSSK to obligations of drinking water entrepreneurs

Indonesia's key economic developments on Tuesday included clarification that the Danantara investment body will only have an advisory role in Financial System Stability Committee meetings. The government also assured that new village cooperatives will not harm small retailers and confirmed there will be no increase in subsidised fuel and LPG prices.

Timeline of 18 KPK Sting Operations Throughout 2026

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) conducted 18 sting operations in the first seven months of 2026, ensnaring dozens of officials. The arrests spanned various sectors, including tax, customs, the judiciary, and numerous regional heads. The operations underscore the anti-graft body's intensified crackdown on corruption across both central and local government.

Prabowo Establishes Seven New District Prosecutor's Offices, Here Are the Locations and Objectives

President Prabowo Subianto has established seven new District Prosecutor's Offices (Kejaksaan Negeri) across Indonesia to strengthen institutional capacity and improve public legal services. The new offices, created under Presidential Regulation No. 40 of 2026, are located in Pangandaran, Serang, Tana Tidung, Kubu Raya, Lima Puluh Kota, Raja Ampat, and Pesisir Barat. The initiative aims to bring law enforcement services closer to communities, particularly in regions with greater legal needs and geographical challenges.

Five Dead as Magnitude 7.1 Earthquake Strikes Japan's Kyushu, Two Bodies Found in Mall Rubble

A powerful magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck Japan's Kumamoto region on Kyushu island, resulting in at least five fatalities. Two of the victims were found dead inside a heavily damaged shopping centre, while thousands of homes lost power. The Japan Meteorological Agency recorded the quake at the highest level on its seismic intensity scale but stated no tsunami activity was observed.

Rupiah Closes at Rp18,055/US$, BI Optimises Triple Intervention and SRBI

The Indonesian rupiah weakened for a fourth consecutive day, closing at Rp18,055 per US dollar. Bank Indonesia has reaffirmed its commitment to stabilising the currency through a triple intervention strategy in the foreign exchange market. The central bank is also optimising its Rupiah Securities (SRBI) instruments to attract foreign capital inflows and support economic growth.

KPK Arrests Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro in Sting Operation

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro in a sting operation, marking the 18th such operation this year. The arrest is particularly ironic as Widiyantoro had previously attended a KPK corruption prevention coordination meeting in June 2025, where he pledged comprehensive reforms. The KPK now has 24 hours to determine the legal status of those caught in the operation.

Re-evaluating High GPAs: Academic Mythology and the Career Prospects of Graduates

The article critically examines the declining relevance of high Grade Point Averages (GPAs) as a predictor of career success in Indonesia, citing a mismatch between academic achievement and labour market demands. It highlights a global shift in recruitment towards skills-based hiring, where employers increasingly value soft skills and practical competencies over formal academic credentials. The piece argues for a reorientation of higher education curricula to better align with industry needs and equip graduates for the modern workforce.

Coal Prices Fall for Second Day, but Positive News Emerges for Indonesia

Global coal prices have weakened for a second consecutive day, pressured by a sharp drop in oil prices. However, strong demand from major Asian importers like China, Japan, and South Korea, coupled with supply chain resilience in Europe, provides a positive outlook for Indonesian coal exports.

Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro Arrested by KPK, Declares Wealth of Rp21.3 Billion

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro in a sting operation, less than two years into his term. Widiyantoro, who was elected in the 2024 regional elections, had reported total assets of Rp21.3 billion to the anti-graft body. The KPK has confirmed the arrest but has yet to disclose details of the case.

Rupiah Closes Weaker at Rp 18,083 per US Dollar Following BI Governor's Resignation

The Indonesian rupiah weakened past the Rp 18,000 level against the US dollar as markets reacted negatively to the sudden resignation of Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo. The appointment of Destry Damayanti as acting governor provided some optimism, though attention now turns to the selection of a definitive successor. S&P Global Ratings indicated the resignation does not directly impact Indonesia's sovereign rating but could contribute to increased policy uncertainty.

BCA Posts Net Profit of Rp 29.5 Trillion in First Half of 2026

PT Bank Central Asia Tbk. (BCA) reported a net profit of Rp 29.5 trillion for the first half of 2026, a 3.5 per cent increase year-on-year. The growth was driven by an 8 per cent expansion in lending, with the bank's loan portfolio surpassing Rp 1,000 trillion for the first time. Green financing also saw significant growth, particularly in renewable energy and electric vehicle loans.

BCA Posts Net Profit of Rp 29.5 Trillion

PT Bank Central Asia (BCA) reported a net profit of Rp 29.5 trillion for the first half of 2026, a 3.5 per cent increase from the same period last year. The growth was driven by an 8 per cent expansion in its loan portfolio, which surpassed Rp 1,000 trillion for the first time. The bank also saw significant growth in green financing and maintained stable asset quality.

The FOMO Culture Trap: When Lifestyle Displaces Needs Among the Young Generation

A growing culture of 'Fear of Missing Out' (FOMO) is driving Indonesia's youth towards unsustainable consumption patterns, prioritising social validation over long-term financial security. Research indicates a significant gap between high financial inclusion and low literacy rates, leaving many young people vulnerable to debt and economic shocks. Experts advocate for a systemic shift towards 'Joy of Missing Out' (JOMO) and enhanced behavioural finance education to mitigate the risks of structural poverty.

KPK Conducts Sting Operation, Arrests Pemalang Regent

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has apprehended the Regent of Pemalang, Anom Widiyantoro, during a sting operation in Central Java. The anti-graft body has yet to disclose the specific case details or the identities of other individuals detained. The suspects are currently being held for questioning, with the KPK having 24 hours to determine their legal status.

How to change DTSEN decile in the 2026 Cek Bansos app: requirements and steps

Indonesian citizens can now request updates to their welfare classification in the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) via the Ministry of Social Affairs' Cek Bansos application. The process requires supporting documents and is subject to verification to ensure social assistance reaches the correct recipients. This mechanism allows for adjustments based on changes in employment, family size, or living conditions.

AHY: Government Anticipates El Niño, Ensures Water Availability and Food Security Remain Safe

Coordinating Minister Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono has stated the government is bolstering its preparedness for the potential El Niño phenomenon coinciding with the dry season. The primary focus is on securing water resource infrastructure, including dams and reservoirs, to guarantee clean water supply and support irrigation systems. Despite current assessments showing national water and food stocks are safe, President Prabowo Subianto has instructed all levels of government to heighten vigilance to prevent disruptions to the economy and public welfare.

Finance Ministry Claims Rp27 Billion Insurance for State Assets Affected by Sumatran Disasters

Indonesia's Directorate General of State Assets has claimed insurance payouts totalling approximately Rp27 billion for state-owned assets damaged by Cyclone Senyar in Sumatra. The funds, primarily allocated for rehabilitating educational facilities, were disbursed by the State Asset Insurance Consortium. The government asserts that this insurance scheme accelerates post-disaster recovery by reducing reliance on the state budget.

KPK Conducts 18th Sting Operation of 2026, Arrests Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro in its 18th sting operation this year. The arrest follows a recent coordination meeting where the KPK had highlighted corruption risks in the Pemalang administration. This operation continues a series of high-profile arrests targeting regional heads and officials across Indonesia throughout 2026.

List of social assistance programmes still disbursing this year, complete with requirements

The Indonesian government continues to distribute several social assistance programmes throughout 2026, targeting poor and vulnerable populations based on the National Single Socio-Economic Data (DTSEN). The programmes include conditional cash transfers, food aid, educational scholarships, health insurance premium assistance, and social rehabilitation support. Citizens can verify their eligibility through the Ministry of Social Affairs' official website or mobile application.

Six Provinces Prone to Forest Fires During Dry Season and El Niño Threat

The head of Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has identified six provinces at high risk of forest and land fires amid the dry season and a strengthening El Niño. The government is deploying weather modification technology to mitigate both fires and drought, including efforts to fill reservoirs for hydropower, irrigation, and clean water supply.

SMRC: Majority of Respondents Doubt Future of Village Cooperatives

A recent survey by Saiful Mujani Research & Consulting (SMRC) reveals a sharp decline in public confidence regarding the future of the government's village cooperative programme (KDMP). The proportion of respondents who believe the cooperatives will thrive has fallen from 43.3 per cent in November 2025 to just 25 per cent in July 2026. The findings come as the government continues to finalise regulations for the cooperatives, which are intended to serve as a distribution channel for subsidised goods and an offtaker of agricultural produce.

Constitutional Court to Rule on Free Nutritious Meal Programme Tomorrow

The Constitutional Court is set to deliver its verdict on Thursday regarding a judicial review of the Free Nutritious Meal programme's placement within the education budget. The case, filed under the 2026 State Budget Law, challenges the government's allocation of the flagship programme. A spokesperson for the court has confirmed the schedule for the ruling.

Jakarta's air quality unhealthy on Wednesday morning

Air quality in Jakarta was recorded at an unhealthy level on Wednesday morning, with the city ranking as the sixth worst in Indonesia. The concentration of PM 2.5 pollutants was significantly higher than World Health Organization guidelines, prompting health warnings from authorities. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activities and vulnerable groups should take extra precautions.

Indonesian Air Force Joins Elite Bomb Disposal and Explosive Drone Drill at Strategic US Base in Guam

The Indonesian Air Force has enhanced its capability to counter improvised explosive devices and weaponised drones through a joint exercise with the US Pacific Air Forces. Seven personnel participated in the Explosive Ordnance Disposal training at Andersen Air Force Base in Guam, focusing on modern asymmetric threats. The drill addressed the growing risk posed by downed unmanned aircraft systems that may still carry active explosives.

Badung Considers 400-Metre Underpass to Connect West Gatot Subroto to Canggu

The Badung Regency Government is considering building a 400-metre underpass to connect Jalan Gatot Subroto Barat to Canggu, aiming to bypass dense residential areas and temples. The overall project, estimated at Rp 3.2 trillion, is deemed urgent to prevent traffic gridlock from crippling the region's tourism. Construction is scheduled for 2027-2028, alongside a connecting shortcut from Tibubeneng to Mengwitani.

Jakarta Provincial Government Continues to Strengthen Social Conflict Prevention Measures

The Jakarta Provincial Government is intensifying efforts to prevent social conflict through interfaith and community forums. The move follows a recent clash in Menteng, Central Jakarta, with the regional council urging stronger early detection and stricter law enforcement. Authorities are also focusing on monitoring newcomers in residential areas to mitigate potential friction.

Japan Plans Food Tax Cut and Cash Handouts to Combat Rising Prices

The Japanese government is planning to slash the sales tax on food and beverages from 8% to 1% for two years starting April 2027, alongside cash handouts for certain households. The policy, a key pledge by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, aims to ease the burden of rising living costs on consumers. However, the estimated annual cost of over 4 trillion yen has raised concerns among investors about Japan's fiscal stability.

Fostering Independence from Pesantren, Santri Produce Bottled Drinking Water

Pondok Pesantren Al-Ashriyyah Nurul Iman in Bogor has launched a bottled water production unit to promote economic self-sufficiency. The initiative involves students in the production process, providing them with practical entrepreneurial and industrial skills alongside their religious education. The water, branded Ointika, is produced using reverse osmosis technology and is currently marketed within the pesantren community.

From Green Claims to Green Capability

The article examines the prevalence of greenwashing in everyday products like paper straws and electric vehicles, questioning whether simple substitutions truly deliver environmental benefits. It argues that without scrutinising the entire lifecycle—from raw material sourcing and production to waste management—eco-friendly claims risk being misleading marketing rather than genuine sustainability.

Purbaya Speaks Out After Perry Warjiyo Resigns from BI, Confirms This

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that the Financial System Stability Committee (KSSK) has discussed the market impact of Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo's resignation. He emphasised that the committee is committed to showing markets that policy remains solid, pro-growth, and market-friendly. Purbaya also expressed confidence in acting Governor Destry Damayanti's extensive experience in managing monetary policy.

Purbaya Assures KSSK Remains Solid in Guarding Markets After Perry Warjiyo's Resignation

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that the Financial System Stability Committee (KSSK) is united in managing market stability following the resignation of Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo. The committee has agreed to demonstrate that policy direction remains pro-growth and market-friendly. Senior Deputy Governor Destry Damayanti has been appointed as acting governor, with Purbaya highlighting her extensive experience in monetary policy.