Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 29 July 2026

Showing 251-300 of 1,531 articles

Forestry Ministry Uncovers Protected Wildlife Trade via Facebook, Seizes Seven Rare Birds in Jayapura

The Ministry of Forestry has exposed an illegal wildlife trade operation in Jayapura, Papua, where a suspect was using Facebook to sell protected bird species. Authorities seized seven rare birds, including Black-capped Lories and a Palm Cockatoo, highlighting the growing use of digital platforms for such crimes. The case underscores the government's commitment to adapting law enforcement strategies to combat online trafficking and protect Indonesia's biodiversity.

53 Red and White Cooperatives in Madiun Regency Begin Operations

Fifty-three of the 206 newly established Koperasi Desa/Kelurahan Merah Putih (Red and White Village/Sub-district Cooperatives) in Madiun Regency, East Java, have commenced business activities following their national launch. The cooperatives are currently operating from temporary village or sub-district offices while awaiting the official handover of permanent premises from the Ministry of Cooperatives. Local officials are encouraging these cooperatives to focus on real-sector businesses such as grocery and fertiliser shops, citing faster turnover and greater growth potential compared to savings and loan services.

Jakarta Expands Free Training to Boost Worker Productivity

The Jakarta provincial government is strengthening collaboration with companies to provide free training programmes aimed at improving workforce competence and productivity. The initiative targets both job seekers and existing employees to align their skills with industry demands. It forms part of the regional medium-term development plan and seeks to foster an inclusive labour ecosystem involving government, businesses, and educational institutions.

Isuzu Showcases Multifunctional Commercial Vehicles at GIIAS, Ready to Support Logistics to Creative Industries

PT Isuzu Astra Motor Indonesia (IAMI) used the GIIAS 2026 automotive exhibition to demonstrate the versatility of its commercial vehicles, extending their utility beyond logistics to sectors like creative industries and mobile businesses. The company displayed a range of adapted vehicles, including a road sweeper, a campervan, and a mobile salon, highlighting their adaptability for various business models. Isuzu emphasised its commitment to being a 'Real Partner, Real Journey' by providing comprehensive solutions that support business growth and operational efficiency.

Indonesia to Update Single Socio-Economic Database Every Three Months for Targeted Aid

The Indonesian government will update the National Single Socio-Economic Data (DTSEN) every three to four months to improve the accuracy of social assistance distribution. The initiative aims to ensure benefits reach the genuinely needy by integrating data from various sectors, including agriculture and health. Regional heads are required to actively participate in the verification process before the updated data is officially released by the Central Statistics Agency (BPS).

8-Month-Old Baby Missing for Three Weeks Returned to Mother at Jambi Regional Police Headquarters

An eight-month-old baby girl, reported missing for three weeks, has been safely returned to her mother, Pemi Sri Rohani, at the Jambi Regional Police headquarters. The infant was allegedly taken by the head of the Batanghari Regency's Child and Women Protection Unit and is suspected to be a victim of human trafficking. Police have taken over the investigation and are processing the case, valued at IDR 20 million, while emphasising the child's welfare remains the priority.

Sumatran Tiger Enters Settlement in Indragiri Hilir, Riau BBKSDA Deploys Team

The Riau Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BBKSDA) has dispatched a Wildlife Rescue Unit after a Sumatran tiger entered a village in Indragiri Hilir and attacked livestock. The team is conducting field identification, installing camera traps, and using drones to monitor the critically endangered animal's movements. Authorities are also educating residents on safety measures to prevent further conflict between humans and the protected species.

Kadin Chair Anindya Bakrie Says Investors Prioritise Regulatory Certainty Over Stability

Anindya Bakrie, Chair of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin), stated that regulatory certainty is more critical for investors than political stability. Speaking in Mataram, he noted that Indonesia's production costs are a third of China's, making the country attractive despite current challenges. He also urged Kadin to act as a catalyst for investment and to support the upgrading of MSMEs.

West Java Breaks Ground on $400 Million Waste-to-Energy Project

Indonesia has commenced construction of a major waste-to-energy plant in West Java, a $400 million project that will process over 2,000 tons of daily waste while generating electricity. The Legok Nangka facility is part of a broader national programme coordinated by Danantara Investment Management, with eight similar projects planned across 20 cities and regencies. The initiative aims to reduce urban waste volumes, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and expand the country's renewable energy capacity.

UK Offers £4 Billion Financing as Indonesia Prioritizes Surabaya Rail Project

The United Kingdom has offered up to £4 billion in export financing to support Indonesia's railway expansion, with the Surabaya metropolitan urban railway identified as a key priority. Indonesian officials acknowledged that securing funding remains the primary challenge for accelerating rail development, despite significant progress in modernising the country's network. The government is exploring partnerships and private investment, particularly for freight projects, as President Prabowo Subianto's administration pushes forward with long-planned infrastructure initiatives.

GoTo Posts Second Consecutive Quarter of Net Profit in Q2

PT GoTo Gojek Tokopedia Tbk (GOTO) recorded a net profit of Rp 252 billion in the second quarter of 2026, reversing a loss from the previous year. The company's adjusted group EBITDA surpassed Rp 1 trillion for the first time, driven by strong growth in its financial technology segment. GOTO also announced plans to cancel approximately 32 billion treasury shares, representing about 2.7% of its outstanding stock.

GoTo Group Posts Rp 252 Billion Net Profit in Q2 2026

PT GoTo Gojek Tokopedia Tbk (GOTO) reported a net profit of Rp 252 billion for the second quarter of 2026, reversing a loss of Rp 375 billion from the same period last year. The company's financial technology segment has now surpassed its on-demand services in profitability, while annual transacting users grew 19% to 71 million. GOTO also announced plans to cancel approximately 32 billion treasury shares, equivalent to 2.7% of its outstanding stock.

One Year After Garut Pendopo Tragedy, Students Urge West Java Police to Conclude Case

Student and youth groups have staged a protest outside West Java Police headquarters, demanding progress in the investigation of a fatal crowd crush at a wedding celebration in Garut that killed three people a year ago. The demonstrators claim the case has stalled despite 11 witnesses being questioned, and are calling for those responsible to be prosecuted without exception. The incident occurred during a public feast hosted by the family of West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi and the Deputy Regent of Garut.

Social Affairs Ministry targets Sekolah Rakyat construction in Landak Regency for October

The Ministry of Social Affairs is processing a proposal to build a Sekolah Rakyat in Landak Regency, West Kalimantan, after the local government resolved land ownership issues. The project is slated for the third phase of construction, with tendering expected in October 2026. The regency, which has a poverty rate of 8 per cent, has prepared a 9-hectare certified plot in the town centre to ensure accessibility.

DPR Member Urges Psychological Protection for Child Victim of Vigilante Assault in Bali

A member of the Indonesian House of Representatives has called for immediate psychological support for a child who witnessed a fatal vigilante attack in Tabanan, Bali. The legislator stressed that the state must ensure the child's recovery and protect their rights under child protection laws. Police have named five suspects in the assault, which occurred after the victim was accused of stealing two chickens.

National PRR Task Force Inspects Disaster-Affected Sites in West Pasaman

Indonesia's National Task Force for Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (PRR) visited West Pasaman to monitor recovery progress and address ongoing challenges. The team identified river and road infrastructure issues, while the local government has prepared alternative routes and is awaiting provincial funding for repairs. The visit underscores central government support for the disaster-prone region.

Palembang City Government Declares 2026 Forest and Land Fire Emergency Alert Status

The Palembang city administration has officially declared a state of emergency for forest and land fires in anticipation of a prolonged dry season. The decision follows a sharp increase in fire incidents, with 50 outbreaks recorded between June and July 2026, compared to just nine in the preceding five months. Mayor Ratu Dewa emphasised that the status aims to ensure early mitigation and the readiness of government resources to protect public safety.

Geisz Chalifah Speaks Out After KPK Examination Over House Sale Linked to Ex-Kukar Regent

Businessman Geisz Chalifah has clarified his involvement in a Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) investigation, stating he was merely questioned as a witness regarding a property transaction. The KPK is probing the sale of a house he built in Pasar Minggu, which was purchased by a party connected to a graft case involving former Kutai Kartanegara Regent Rita Widyasari. Chalifah insists he had no personal relationship with the buyer beyond the legal sale and cooperated fully during the two-hour examination.

West Bandung Regency Strengthens Strategy to Curb Unemployment, Focuses on Expanding Job Opportunities

The West Bandung Regency government is intensifying efforts to reduce unemployment by expanding job access, despite a slight decrease in the open unemployment rate to 6.60 percent. Bupati Jeje Ritchie Ismail emphasised that the focus extends beyond lowering percentages to creating tangible employment opportunities, including skills training and job fairs. The administration is also facilitating procedural overseas placements and inclusive programmes for disabled job seekers.

UN Warns of Worsening Israeli Settler Violence and Annexation in the West Bank

The United Nations has warned that Israeli settler violence and land annexation in the occupied West Bank are worsening, two years after the International Court of Justice deemed the occupation illegal. A UN spokesperson highlighted record levels of settler attacks and outpost construction, urging immediate international action to halt the violence and dispossession of Palestinians. The situation has sharply deteriorated since the outbreak of the Gaza war, with near-daily attacks and military raids.

Pemalang Regent's Wife Arrives at KPK Building Amid Corruption Probe

The wife of Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro arrived at the KPK headquarters in Jakarta on Wednesday evening, following a large-scale sting operation. The anti-graft agency arrested 21 individuals, including the regent, in connection with alleged corruption involving government projects and the buying and selling of positions. The KPK has seized Rp2 billion in cash and has 24 hours to determine the legal status of the suspects.

GoTo CEO Reveals Strategy for Company Profitability

GoTo Group reported a record net profit of Rp252 billion for the second quarter of 2026, marking its second consecutive profitable quarter. The company's fintech arm has surpassed on-demand services in profitability for the first time, driven by strong revenue growth. CEO Hans Patuwo also addressed the impact of a new 8% commission policy, stating the company remains stable after its first month of implementation.

NTT Governor: Indonesia-Timor Leste FTZ to Transform Border into New Economic Hub

East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Governor Melki Laka Lena has stated that the proposed Indonesia-Timor Leste Free Trade Zone (FTZ) is a strategic opportunity to turn the border region into a new centre for economic growth. The provincial government is targeting the completion of technical preparations, including a pre-feasibility study, by this year or next, pending central government regulations. The initiative aims to boost trade, investment, and community welfare by shifting the area's status from a peripheral zone to Indonesia's front porch.

The Agonising Struggle to Break Free from Tramadol Addiction

Two Indonesian women share harrowing accounts of their addiction to the prescription painkiller Tramadol, detailing how casual use spiralled into dependency, physical deterioration, and memory loss. Their personal stories highlight a wider public health crisis, as the Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) reports that illegal Tramadol distribution is the most frequently handled case by its investigators. The agency has identified thousands of online links and hundreds of physical distribution points, underscoring the drug's widespread availability and the difficulty in curbing its circulation.

Construction of Legok Nangka Waste-to-Energy Plant Officially Begins, Targeting 2029 Operation

Indonesia has broken ground on the Legok Nangka Waste-to-Energy (PSEL) plant in West Java, a $400 million project designed to convert urban waste into 40.79 MW of electricity. The facility, backed by Japanese investment, is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 311,000 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent annually. The government aims for the project to serve as a national model for sustainable waste management and clean energy provision.

DFSK Officially Announces E5 Plus Price at GIIAS, Targets Plug-in Hybrid SUV Market

PT Sokonindo Automobile has launched the DFSK E5 Plus plug-in hybrid SUV at the GIIAS 2026 auto show, with a special exhibition price of Rp479 million. The model has already secured over 1,200 pre-orders, signalling strong initial demand in the Indonesian market. The launch forms part of DFSK's broader strategy to expand its new energy vehicle portfolio in what it considers a key strategic market.

Gunungkidul Regency Declares Drought Emergency Status Until 31 August 2026

The Gunungkidul Regency has officially declared a drought emergency status effective from 1 June to 31 August 2026, anticipating hydrometeorological disasters. The local disaster mitigation agency (BPBD) has begun distributing clean water aid, having already delivered over 128 tanks with a total budget allocation for 1,150 tanks. Twelve of the eighteen sub-districts in the regency have also allocated their own budgets to provide water assistance to affected residents.

Is It Better to Buy or Rent an Official Apple iPhone for Rp578 Thousand Per Month?

Apple has introduced a new iPhone rental programme in the United States in partnership with Klarna, offering a 24-month subscription for the iPhone 17 Pro at a lower total cost than an outright purchase. However, the scheme means users do not own the device at the end of the contract unless they pay an additional fee, presenting a trade-off between lower short-term costs and long-term asset ownership.

Including the Wife of the Pemalang Regent, Parties Caught in KPK Sting Operation Arrive at KPK Building

A group of individuals caught in a Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) sting operation targeting Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro arrived at the KPK headquarters in Jakarta. Among the 21 people detained was the regent's wife, Noor Faizah Maenofie. The KPK has 24 hours to determine the legal status of all those apprehended in Pemalang, Purworejo, and Jakarta.

Caught in Sting Operation, Pemalang Regent's Wife Arrives at KPK by Bus

The wife of Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro, Noor Faizah, was among those transported to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) headquarters in Jakarta following a sting operation. The arrests are linked to alleged corruption involving projects and the buying and selling of the Regional Secretary position within the Pemalang Regency Government. A total of 21 individuals were detained, with authorities seizing over Rp2 billion in cash as evidence.

Associations support government crackdown on drug distribution via vapes

Indonesian vape industry associations have voiced strong support for government action against the criminal misuse of vape devices for narcotics distribution, while urging that the legal industry not be penalised for the actions of criminals. The associations, APVI and PPEI, have offered to collaborate on public education and compliance standards to distinguish legal products from illegal ones. This comes as President Joko Widodo instructed relevant ministers and agency heads to urgently review and potentially impose a total ban on vapes to protect public safety.

Siloam Hospitals Lippo Village Commits to Advancing the Future of Oncology Services

Siloam Hospitals Lippo Village has reinforced its three-decade commitment to advancing cancer care by integrating precision medicine, multidisciplinary teams, and international collaboration. The hospital is enhancing its oncology ecosystem with comprehensive diagnostics and a collaborative care model aligned with global standards. This initiative includes a partnership with University College London Hospital to expand access to internationally recognised cancer treatment for Indonesian patients.

Musician Kaka Slank Praises Khofifah's Consistency in Mangrove Conservation

Indonesian musician Kaka Slank has commended East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa for her unwavering commitment to mangrove preservation during the 10th East Java Mangrove Festival in Tuban. The Slank vocalist highlighted the critical role of mangroves as natural fortresses against disasters and praised the governor's focus on regional environmental restoration. The provincial government reported that East Java's mangrove area now spans approximately 31,000 hectares, representing about 48 per cent of the total mangroves on Java Island.

Bandung City Government Grants Cihampelas Road to West Java Provincial Government

The Bandung city administration has formally transferred ownership of Jalan Cihampelas to the West Java provincial government, paving the way for the demolition of the Teras Cihampelas structure. The provincial government plans to auction the demolition rights, requiring the winning bidder to pay for the privilege, and aims to redevelop the area into a creative economy and fashion hub. The move follows administrative uncertainty over the site's legal status, which prevented it from obtaining a certificate of fitness for purpose.

Japan Earthquake Forces Major Firms to Halt Operations, Sparking Economic Concerns

A magnitude 7.1 earthquake in Japan's Kumamoto Prefecture has forced major semiconductor manufacturers and other industrial firms to suspend operations. Companies including Sony, Renesas, and Toyota have halted production due to damage and logistical disruptions. The shutdowns are raising concerns about the potential economic impact if the closures become prolonged.

Ministry of Social Affairs and BRIN Collaborate on Research for 'Sekolah Rakyat' and Empowerment Programmes

The Ministry of Social Affairs and the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) have agreed to collaborate on strengthening the government's 'Sekolah Rakyat' programme and various community empowerment initiatives. BRIN will provide evidence-based policy research, technology development, and programme evaluation, including innovations in water sourcing and waste management. The partnership aims to shift the ministry's focus from merely distributing social assistance to empowering beneficiaries to escape poverty.

Ministry of Migrant Worker Protection Expands Affordable Financing Schemes for Prospective Migrant Workers

The Ministry of Migrant Worker Protection (P2MI) is broadening access to affordable financing for prospective Indonesian migrant workers (CPMI) beyond the existing KUR PMI programme. The initiative involves a new collaboration with the Revolving Fund Management Agency (LPDB) for Cooperatives to provide loans through cooperatives. This move aims to address the financial barriers that prevent competent workers from taking up overseas job opportunities through procedural channels.

Defence Minister asks students, NGOs to be invited to Yon TP to see community programmes

Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin has urged the 939/Macan Putih Territorial Development Battalion in Tasikmalaya to invite university students and NGOs to its base to observe its community programmes. He stressed the initiative aims to educate the public about the battalion's role in rural development, healthcare, and infrastructure, rather than militarisation. The minister also instructed soldiers to serve the people humbly, reminding them that their facilities are funded by the public.

Rais Syuriyah of West Java NU Clarifies: Support for National Police Chief Is a Personal Statement, Not the Organisation's Stance

Rais Syuriyah of the West Java branch of Nahdlatul Ulama (PWNU), KH Abun Bunyamin, has clarified that a statement of support for National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo was a personal view of the branch chairman and not an official organisational position. He emphasised that the matter was never discussed through official PWNU mechanisms and warned members to be cautious when expressing views on public office. KH Abun also noted the strong existing relationship between the police and NU, urging that the organisation remain a unifying institution free from individual political interests.

China's Conservation Miracle: Rare Species Rebound, Giant Pandas Included

Decades of aggressive conservation investment in China are yielding dramatic results, with populations of giant pandas, Siberian tigers, and the once near-extinct crested ibis all recovering. The transformation is particularly evident in the Yangtze River, where a fishing ban has led to a 200% increase in fish biomass. This ecological recovery is also fostering new economic models, as rural communities pivot to eco-tourism and organic farming linked to the returning wildlife.

South Sumatra BPBD Deploys Four Water-Bombing Helicopters to Tackle Banyuasin Forest Fires

The South Sumatra Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has intensified aerial firefighting operations in Banyuasin Regency, where land fires have scorched approximately eight hectares of private plantations. Four helicopters have conducted over 200 water drops, though the area continues to emit smoke. Authorities are also tackling a separate fire in Ogan Komering Ilir while warning that the strengthening El Niño phenomenon could exacerbate drought and fire risks.

AMPI to Hold National Congress Soon to Strengthen Organisational Solidarity, Says Jerry Sambuaga

The Central Executive Board of the Indonesian Renewal Youth Force (DPP AMPI) has decided to accelerate its National Working Meeting and National Leadership Meeting as preparatory steps towards its 10th National Congress. Chairman Jerry Sambuaga emphasised that these forums are strategic for consolidating the organisation and ensuring a smooth leadership transition. The decision was taken during the XI Plenary Meeting in Jakarta, with coordination across all provincial branches to follow.

DPR Appreciates Government's Recognition of 2.8 Million Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers as Micro-Enterprises

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has welcomed a new ministerial regulation that officially recognises 2.8 million online motorcycle taxi (ojol) drivers as micro-enterprises. The policy provides a legal umbrella for drivers to access business credit, training, and social security programmes. The government is also preparing a presidential regulation to further strengthen the ecosystem.

Manggala Agni Continues to Battle Forest and Land Fires at Six Locations in South Sumatra

The Manggala Agni task force is actively combating forest and land fires across six locations in South Sumatra, with some sites still undergoing suppression and two entering the mopping-up phase. Operations are concentrated in Palembang, Ogan Komering Ilir, and Muara Enim, where an estimated eight hectares have been affected. Personnel remain fully deployed to accelerate fire control efforts across the region.

Danone Indonesia Relies on Solar Energy for Factory Operations

Danone Indonesia has installed solar power plants at 11 production facilities with a total capacity of over 10.4 MWp as part of its decarbonisation strategy. The initiative supports the company's commitment to renewable energy and aligns with Indonesia's net-zero emissions targets. The firm was recently recognised with the Solar Awards 2026 for its implementation of solar energy in the industrial sector.

SPBUN-SGN Appreciates DPR's Steps in Resolving Employment Polemic

The Serikat Pekerja Perkebunan Nusantara PT Sinergi Gula Nusantara (SPBUN-SGN) has expressed gratitude to the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) for mediating a successful resolution to a labour dispute. The agreement, facilitated by DPR leadership, addresses employee aspirations regarding bonuses and standard harmonisation. Workers have pledged to improve performance and support national sugar self-sufficiency and energy security programmes.

PLN Guarantees Purchase of Electricity from Legok Nangka Waste-to-Energy Plant for 20 Years

State electricity firm PLN has signed a 20-year power purchase agreement for the Legok Nangka waste-to-energy plant in West Java, securing investment certainty for the project. The facility, with a capacity of 40.79 megawatts, is expected to supply power to around 40,000 households and process over 2,100 tonnes of waste daily. The agreement was finalised in just three months, marking one of the fastest procurement processes since the project was assigned in January 2026.

Digital Technology Drives Indonesian Fashion and Textiles to Global Stage

The Indonesian government is leveraging digital platforms to promote the nation's fashion and traditional textiles internationally. The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs is supporting the industry through enhanced digital communication strategies. The initiative was highlighted at the opening of the BTN Indonesia Fashion Week 2026, which aims to balance tradition and innovation.

Two Villages Clash Over Land in West Manggarai, Vehicles Torched

A land dispute between residents of Kampung Rareng and Mbehal in West Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, escalated into a violent clash, resulting in the torching of two pickup trucks and three motorcycles. Police swiftly intervened to separate the warring groups and have since deployed a platoon of officers to maintain order. Authorities are planning a mediation meeting with local leaders and the National Land Agency to resolve the conflict, while vowing to prosecute those responsible for the arson and destruction.

Dispelling the Shadows of Hackers: The Urgency of Data Sovereignty and Cybersecurity

The article discusses the critical importance of data sovereignty and cybersecurity for Indonesia's micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). It highlights how the sector's low tax compliance is not just a fiscal issue but a symptom of deeper structural problems, including poor financial literacy and vulnerability to digital threats. The piece argues that strengthening data protection and simplifying digital tax systems are essential for formalising the sector and safeguarding the national economy.