Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 29 July 2026

Showing 151-200 of 1,531 articles

BGN to Involve Military in Distributing Free Nutritious Meals in Conflict Areas

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is developing a special mechanism to distribute the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme in conflict-prone regions. The agency plans to involve the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and National Police (Polri) to ensure children in these areas still receive the benefits. This move addresses the logistical challenges of implementing the priority programme in areas where standard distribution methods are not feasible.

KADIN: Investors Need Certainty More Than Calm

The Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN) has stated that regulatory certainty is the primary factor for maintaining investment flows, as foreign investors are more concerned with policy stability than political calm. Chairman Anindya Bakrie highlighted that Indonesia's production costs, which are one-third of China's, continue to make the country an attractive destination. He urged regional KADIN branches to act as catalysts for investment and to support MSMEs in scaling up their businesses.

Pelindo Group Strengthens Industry Partnership Network to Expand Economic Impact

PT Pelabuhan Indonesia's non-container terminal operator, PTP Nonpetikemas, held the PortPress 2026 event to enhance public understanding of the port sector's role in logistics and economic growth. The company reported a 20 per cent year-on-year increase in throughput for the first half of 2026, driven by significant rises in general cargo, liquid bulk, and dry bulk. Industry partners emphasised that efficient port operations are crucial for building an integrated and competitive maritime logistics ecosystem.

BYD Strengthens New Energy Vehicle Strategy in Indonesia with M6 EV and M6 DM Launch at GIIAS 2026

PT BYD Motor Indonesia is expanding its New Energy Vehicle (NEV) strategy by offering both pure electric and plug-in hybrid options for its M6 MPV line. The company unveiled the updated, locally produced M6 EV alongside the M6 DM at the GIIAS 2026 auto show, targeting Indonesia's growing demand for electrified vehicles. BYD also reported a strong market presence, with NEVs now accounting for over 30 percent of its national sales.

PPPK Teacher Suspected of Molesting Student in Buleleng Temporarily Relieved of Duties

The Education, Youth, and Sports Office (Disdikpora) of Buleleng has temporarily relieved a primary school teacher, identified as MGAW, from his teaching duties after he was named a suspect in a molestation case involving a 12-year-old student. The teacher, a Government Employee with a Work Agreement (PPPK), has been detained by the Buleleng Police. Authorities are providing integrated support for the victim while the case proceeds through the legal system.

Malaysia: Clean Renewable Energy a Form of Fundamental National Security

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has declared the transition to clean and renewable energy a fundamental national security imperative, not merely an ecological preference. He stressed the need to accelerate the shift away from finite fossil fuels amid global geopolitical tensions that disrupt supply chains and cause price volatility. Anwar also noted that nuclear energy has received insufficient attention within ASEAN, despite the region's regulatory and technical expertise.

Crime Scene Investigation of Amertha Husadha Hospital Project Fire Points to Short Circuit

A preliminary investigation into a fire at the Amertha Husadha Hospital construction project in Denpasar suggests it was caused by a short circuit in cables used by workers. The blaze, which destroyed the entire sixth-floor work area, occurred while a worker was injecting the floor with a resin and catalyst mixture. Police are continuing their investigation to determine the exact cause and have yet to estimate the total financial loss.

Before KPK Arrest, Pemalang Regent Appointed Wife to Hospital Supervisory Board, Ombudsman Had Warned

The Ombudsman of Central Java had previously warned Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro about a conflict of interest after he appointed his wife to the supervisory board of a regional hospital. The warning was issued in 2026, prior to the regent's recent arrest by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). The Ombudsman noted that public service assessments in Pemalang in 2025 had also shown suboptimal results.

DKPP Issues Stern Warning to KPU Member Over Helicopter Use

The Election Organiser Ethics Council (DKPP) has sanctioned KPU RI member Parsadaan Harahap with a stern warning for using a helicopter to attend a KPPS inauguration in Cianjur, citing a lack of ethical judgement. The council ruled that the urgency of a clashing schedule in Bengkulu did not justify the extraordinary use of public funds. A West Java KPU member who accompanied him received the same sanction, while the KPU Secretary General was cleared of any wrongdoing.

OJK Processes Licence for Second Investment Manager to Enter Pension Fund Business

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) is processing a licence application from an investment manager seeking to establish a Financial Institution Pension Fund (DPLK), which would make it only the second such entity in the country. The regulator highlighted the higher operational complexity of managing pension funds compared to mutual funds, requiring robust systems and governance. OJK welcomed the potential new entrant as a means to expand pension fund coverage and stimulate innovation in the sector.

Batam Government Backs Tech Investment at PLN Batam and Altiva Synergy Event

The Batam municipal government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting technology-based investment, marked by the attendance of the mayor and deputy mayor at a power purchase agreement signing between PLN Batam and PT Altiva Identity Data Center. Officials highlighted Batam's strategic location and regulatory support as key factors attracting data centre investments, signalling a shift from conventional manufacturing to a technology hub. The city is also preparing supporting infrastructure, including electricity and water, to accommodate the growing digital economy sector.

DPR Urges Evaluation of 'Red and White Village Cooperative' Programme in Papua to Match Local Conditions

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called for a thorough evaluation of the national 'Red and White Village Cooperative' (KDMP) programme in Papua, arguing that its standardised approach fails to address the region's unique geographical and socio-economic challenges. The legislator highlighted that services like LPG distribution are impractical in remote villages with limited access and low demand, urging that state funds be used more effectively to ensure the programme genuinely benefits local communities.

CDIA Reveals Performance, Investment, and Danantara Project

PT Chandra Daya Investasi (CDIA) has disclosed details of its recent performance, strategic investments, and involvement in a waste-to-energy project. The company has expanded into mining logistics and port services through acquisitions, while also advancing a feasibility study for a Danantara project in Serang. CDIA remains focused on completing ongoing developments and strengthening its integrated infrastructure platform.

Minister Touts Rise of Creative Cooperatives for Content Creators and Animators

Cooperatives Minister Ferry Juliantono has highlighted a growing trend among young Indonesians forming cooperatives in the creative economy, including for content creators and animators. He noted the ministry is ready to support these new entities and urged youth to participate in the government's flagship Village Cooperative programme. The initiative aims to bolster economic empowerment, with over 83,000 village cooperatives now formally established nationwide.

Ministry of Religious Affairs to Hold National Zikir and Prayer at Monas, Habib Syech to Attend

The Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs is organising a National Zikir and Prayer event at the National Monument (Monas) in Jakarta on Saturday, 1 August 2026. The event, which is open to the public, aims to welcome the month of independence and will feature Quranic recitations, congregational prayers, and a shalawat performance led by Habib Syech bin Abdul Qodir Assegaf. The gathering will conclude with an interfaith prayer for a sovereign, just, and prosperous Indonesia.

Will Ships Transiting the Strait of Hormuz Have to Pay? Here's the Latest Update

Oman has proposed a regional management model for the Strait of Hormuz based on voluntary transit contributions, similar to the Malacca Strait arrangement, countering Iran's demand to impose mandatory fees. The proposal, part of a dialogue following a temporary Iran-US ceasefire, aims to fund navigation and environmental services without violating international maritime norms. The US has sent mixed signals, with the State Department insisting no country can charge for passage through international waterways.

Two Indonesian Online Scam Operators Repatriated After Myanmar Captivity

Two Indonesian migrant workers, identified as operators of an online scam syndicate, have been repatriated after being held captive in Myawaddy, Myanmar. The women, who suffered injuries, were flown home via Thailand and Malaysia after a viral video showed them in handcuffs pleading for help. Authorities noted they had travelled abroad through unofficial channels, and the area where they were held is a known conflict zone controlled by rebel groups.

Deputy Minister Ensures Legok Nangka Waste-to-Energy Technology is Environmentally Safe

Deputy Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Yuliot Tanjung has confirmed that the Legok Nangka waste-to-energy plant in West Java will use environmentally friendly incinerator technology. The facility is designed to process 2,131 tonnes of waste daily into 40 megawatts of electricity, with operations targeted for 2029. The project aims to reduce environmental impact, improve public health, and support Indonesia's renewable energy mix.

Medan Councillor Named Suspect for Allegedly Assaulting Neighbour

A Medan city councillor, identified by the initials AT, has been named a suspect by police following allegations that he and his son assaulted a neighbour during a traffic dispute. The incident reportedly occurred after the victim's car passed the councillor on a residential street, leading to a physical altercation that left the victim with bruises.

Trump Vows 'Hard' Retaliation After Iran Fires Ballistic Missiles at Jordan

US President Donald Trump has threatened severe retaliation after Iran launched five ballistic missiles targeting American assets in Jordan, which were intercepted by US and Jordanian forces. The attack, confirmed by Iran's Revolutionary Guard as a response to 'aggressive actions', marks the first regional strike since a pause in hostilities between the two nations.

Police Hunt Drug Lord Supplying Two Dealers in North Jakarta

The Sunda Kelapa police are pursuing a drug lord identified as PN, who allegedly supplied methamphetamine to two arrested dealers in North Jakarta. The suspects, MR and WF, confessed to receiving the drugs from PN, who operates from Cirebon, and were paid between Rp2 million and Rp4 million for their roles. The investigation is being expanded to uncover the wider narcotics network.

Airlangga: Q2 2026 Economic Growth Remains Above 5 Percent

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto projects Indonesia's economic growth for the second quarter of 2026 will remain above 5 percent. He cited robust investment and government incentives as the primary drivers. The government is also focusing on debottlenecking efforts and accelerating state spending to sustain momentum through the remainder of the year.

Eradicating TIP Syndicates Requires Extraordinary Measures, Says Lawmaker Sahroni

House of Representatives Deputy Chairman Ahmad Sahroni has urged the National Police Chief, the Minister for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers, and the Directorate General of Immigration to intensify coordination and take extraordinary steps to dismantle human trafficking syndicates. He stressed that illegal migrant worker placement remains a serious issue requiring comprehensive law enforcement and systemic governance reform. Sahroni also called for easier access to official channels to prevent citizens from falling prey to trafficking networks.

Indonesia bolsters small business protection on digital marketplaces

The Indonesian government has introduced new regulations, including Minister of Trade Regulation No.19/2026, to protect micro and small enterprises that dominate the nation's e-commerce sector. The rules mandate transparent fee disclosures, require platforms to prioritise local products in search results, and simplify business registration through direct links to the OSS system. These measures aim to create a fairer digital ecosystem by safeguarding local merchants from opaque costs and competition from imported goods.

Ombudsman Had Warned Pemalang Regent Over Nepotism Before KPK Sting

The Indonesian Ombudsman's office revealed it had previously warned Pemalang Regent Anom Widyantoro about a conflict of interest involving the appointment of his wife to a hospital supervisory board. The warning came before the regent was arrested in a corruption sting operation by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). The Ombudsman noted a decline in public service quality in Pemalang, linking maladministration to the root of corruption.

Kemenkum Kepri Inventories 31 Malay Songs for Copyright Registration Ahead of Zero-Tariff Policy

The Riau Islands Ministry of Law and Human Rights (Kemenkum Kepri) is inventorying 31 Malay songs by local musician Pak Ngah Suhardi to prepare for their copyright registration. The initiative aims to secure legal protection for the works ahead of a government policy waiving copyright registration fees, effective August 2026. Officials stated the move is intended to provide legal certainty for creators while preserving regional cultural heritage.

Police uncover methamphetamine distribution, arrest two in Cakung

Police in North Jakarta have arrested two men suspected of distributing methamphetamine, seizing over 100 grams of the drug from a rented house in Cakung, East Jakarta. The suspects, who allegedly conducted transactions in the Pademangan area, face up to 20 years in prison under Indonesia's narcotics laws.

34,262 Hotspots Encircle Kalimantan, 65 Percent in West Kalimantan

WALHI reports that 34,262 fire hotspots have been detected across Kalimantan in 2026, with 74 percent located within corporate concession areas. The environmental group warns the situation is a critical early warning ahead of the peak dry season and demands fundamental policy corrections. West Kalimantan is the most affected province, accounting for 65 percent of high-confidence hotspots.

East Jakarta Government Selects Pilot Schools for Urban Farming Development

The East Jakarta city administration is selecting one school in each sub-district to serve as a pilot for urban farming, aiming to optimise school land use for education and food cultivation. The programme, led by the Food Security, Marine and Agriculture Sub-agency, will provide mentoring and guidance to selected schools. Officials hope the initiative will serve as a productive learning tool and foster environmental awareness among students.

PNM Equips People with Disabilities with Economically Valuable Skills

State-owned enterprise PNM has provided ecoprint training to 50 people with disabilities in Bekasi Regency as part of its corporate social responsibility programme. The initiative aims to foster economic independence by equipping participants with marketable skills in sustainable fashion. The programme aligns with government efforts to create a more inclusive economy and involved collaboration with local government stakeholders.

Responding to Reports of 116 Million Indonesians Lacking Food, Here's What the National Nutrition Agency Chief Said

The Head of Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has confirmed that approximately 116 million citizens, or 40% of the population in the lowest economic brackets, suffer from calorie and protein deficits. Dadan Hindayana emphasised that this stark reality underscores the urgency of the Free Nutritious Meal programme. The Health Minister added that while undernutrition remains the primary challenge, overnutrition is also emerging among urban adolescents and adults.

West Sumatra Police Uncover Syndicate Behind Online Gambling Sites in Padang

The West Sumatra Regional Police have dismantled a syndicate operating six online gambling websites in Padang, following a cyber patrol investigation. A total of 21 suspects have been detained and are currently undergoing examination to determine their respective roles. The police emphasised that the operation demonstrates a zero-tolerance policy towards gambling activities that harm the public's economy.

Chery introduces new family member to J6 line-up in Indonesia

Chinese automaker Chery has unveiled the J6T CSH at the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2026, expanding its J6 Series in the country. The new model features a Range-Extended Electric Vehicle (REEV) powertrain capable of travelling up to 1,000 km on a full charge and tank, alongside off-road capabilities and advanced safety features. Pricing for the vehicle has not yet been disclosed.

Health Ministry proposes Bogor as national model for integrated TB control

Indonesia's Health Ministry has proposed Bogor City as a national pilot for integrated tuberculosis control after the municipality successfully established TB-alert units in all 68 of its urban wards. The initiative integrates active case finding with free health screening programmes, targeting over 23,000 residents through mobile X-rays and preventive therapy. The move aims to shift from passive treatment to proactive community-based detection to curb the high incidence rate in the region.

Iraqi President Condemns Joint US-Saudi Strikes That Killed 20

Iraqi President Nizar Amedi has condemned a joint US-Saudi military operation that killed at least 20 members of a former paramilitary alliance, denouncing it as a violation of sovereignty. The strikes targeted positions of the Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), which is now integrated into Iraq's official armed forces. Washington and Riyadh stated the action was a response to drone attacks originating from Iraq against US troops and Saudi oil facilities.

Revealed: Trump Once Fumed and Called Netanyahu a Fraud

A new book by journalist Maggie Haberman reveals that US President Donald Trump harshly criticised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calling him a 'fraud' during a disagreement over attacking Iran. The account details how Trump initially refused to join a military operation against Iran before later changing his stance after a White House meeting. The book also describes Trump's mixed reaction to the 2024 pager sabotage operation in Lebanon, calling it both 'horrible' and effective.

Chinese Investor in Rinjani Cable Car Project Disappears After Depositing Rp 5 Billion

The Chinese investor behind the proposed Rp 6 trillion Rinjani cable car project has gone silent following rejection from the West Nusa Tenggara provincial government. A Rp 5 billion commitment fee remains frozen in a local bank, though officials state the regional rejection is a key factor in the central government's ongoing environmental impact assessment. The provincial investment board maintains the controversy will not harm the overall investment climate, citing the need to consider environmental and indigenous community concerns.

Batang Regency Launches 'Batang Investa' Platform for Investment Licensing Ease

The Batang Regency government in Central Java has launched the 'Batang Investa' digital platform to streamline licensing and provide investment certainty. The platform offers transparent information on potential land locations and is part of a broader effort to boost the region's investment climate, which recorded approximately Rp7 trillion in realised investment in the first half of 2026. The initiative is supported by a local regulation on investment incentives, including tax relief and infrastructure support.

KPK Seizes Second Wife's Pajero in Kuansing Bribery Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized a Mitsubishi Pajero Sport belonging to the second wife of the suspended Kuantan Singingi Regent, Suhardiman Amby. The seizure is linked to an ongoing investigation into alleged bribery involving the buying and selling of government positions. The Regent and two other officials were named suspects earlier in July following a sting operation.

Bank Bahteramas Kendari Strengthens KEJAR Programme, Facilitating 10,282 Student Savings Accounts

Bank Bahteramas Kendari has facilitated the opening of 10,282 SimPel student savings accounts for madrasah students in Kendari as part of the KEJAR programme. The initiative, supported by the local government, OJK, Baznas, and the Indonesia Stock Exchange, aims to boost financial inclusion and cultivate saving habits from an early age. The programme provides students with formal banking access and initial deposit incentives to encourage regular saving.

US Military Base in South Korea Hit by White Phosphorus Leak; Residents Evacuated

South Korean authorities ordered a brief emergency evacuation near Osan Air Base after a white phosphorus leak was detected on Tuesday. The toxic substance, used in military munitions, prompted a rapid response with a 1,000-foot safety cordon established to protect personnel and local residents. Officials confirmed no casualties were reported and the evacuation order was lifted after approximately half an hour following decontamination efforts.

Buol Regency Government Proposes 32 SPPG Kitchens for Underdeveloped Regions

The Buol Regency administration in Central Sulawesi has proposed the construction of 32 Satuan Pelayanan Pemenuhan Gizi (SPPG) kitchens to serve underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost (3T) areas. Bupati Risharyudi Triwibowo stated that while the local government will provide land, it cannot offer budgetary support due to current efficiency measures. The initiative is part of a broader effort to expand the Free Nutritious Meals programme to communities with limited access.

Indonesia Strengthens Collaboration, Aims for Malaria-Free Status by 2030

The Indonesian government is intensifying cross-sector collaboration and local leadership to achieve its target of eliminating malaria nationwide by 2030. As of July 2026, the country recorded 346,866 cases, though 94.1 per cent of targeted districts have already achieved elimination status. The Ministry of Health has awarded elimination certificates to two provinces and seven regencies, urging sustained efforts to maintain malaria-free areas and accelerate progress in remaining regions.

PWI Fest 2026 to Strengthen Media Workers' Capacity in Era of Disruption

The Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) will hold PWI Fest 2026 in Jakarta this December to bolster the skills of media professionals facing digital and artificial intelligence disruption. The event combines journalism workshops with a public festival, aiming to ensure the press remains relevant and connected to the people. It marks a national consolidation effort involving the government, state-owned enterprises, and global platforms.

BNI Strengthens Business Foundation, Supports SOE Transformation

State-owned Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) is reinforcing its corporate governance, risk management, and capital structure to ensure sustainable growth. The bank has issued a $700 million Additional Tier 1 (AT1) instrument in the international market as part of this effort. The initiative aligns with the broader transformation agenda of Indonesian state-owned enterprises and the Danantara Indonesia investment ecosystem.

Indonesia breaks ground on 40 MW waste-to-energy power plant

Indonesia has commenced construction of a 40-megawatt waste-to-energy plant in West Java, a joint venture between an Indonesian and a Japanese firm. The Legok Nangka facility, part of President Prabowo Subianto's directive to accelerate such projects, aims to address the province's waste challenges while bolstering the local energy supply. Scheduled for commercial operation in 2029, the plant will also support a circular economy by converting plastic waste into alternative fuels.

Santri and Teachers from Darul Amanah Islamic Boarding School in Kendal to Visit State Palace

Santri and teaching staff from Pondok Pesantren Darul Amanah in Kendal, Central Java, are scheduled to visit the State Palace in Jakarta. The visit aims to strengthen national insight, leadership, and civic literacy among the students. The programme includes direct exposure to the centre of Indonesian governance to foster a deeper understanding of state administration.

Impact of US-Iran War Must Be Anticipated with Adaptive Policies

Indonesian officials and experts warn that the prolonged US-Iran conflict is disrupting global oil supplies and straining the national budget. They urge the government to implement adaptive domestic policies and substantive geopolitical diversification to mitigate the economic fallout. Analysts highlight the risk of a widening budget deficit and call for a focus on national economic stability.

Illegal Alcohol Syndicate in Bali Busted, Customs Seizes 20,000 Bottles

The Directorate General of Customs and Excise has disrupted a major illegal alcohol distribution network in Bali, seizing nearly 20,000 bottles of liquor affixed with suspected counterfeit excise stamps. The operation, which stemmed from intelligence reports, prevented an estimated state revenue loss of IDR 2.14 billion. The seized goods, comprising various brands of Class B and C alcoholic beverages, have an estimated market value of IDR 12.55 billion.

Immigration Chief: Selective Policy Not a Barrier to Foreign Arrivals

Indonesia's Director General of Immigration asserts that the selective visa policy aims to attract quality tourists and investors rather than restrict entry. The policy balances national sovereignty with economic growth, evidenced by a 14 percent rise in foreign arrivals between 2019 and 2024. Officials and experts stress the need for reciprocity and enforcement to prevent visa abuse while maintaining openness.