Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 29 July 2026

Showing 301-350 of 1,531 articles

Telegram Founder Pavel Durov Faces Life Imprisonment in Russia on Terrorism Facilitation Charges

Pavel Durov, the founder of the messaging platform Telegram, could face a life sentence if convicted of facilitating terrorism, according to his lawyer. Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) has placed Durov on an international wanted list, accusing Telegram's management of failing to remove channels and bots allegedly used by Ukrainian intelligence to plan sabotage and terrorist attacks on Russian soil.

Smile! There's a Chance the IHSG Could Return to 8,000 by Year-End

PT Bank DBS Indonesia projects the Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) will rebound to 8,000 by the end of the year, surpassing the average analyst expectation. The bank's Head of Research argues the current level around 6,100 is oversold, with valuations at their lowest point in a decade. A recovery in confidence, stable earnings, and a potential rotation of foreign funds are expected to drive the recovery.

125 Personnel Battle Forest and Land Fires in Palangka Raya

A joint task force of 125 personnel is tackling forest and land fires in Palangka Raya, Central Kalimantan. The team is working to contain the blaze in Kameloh Baru sub-district to prevent it from spreading to residential areas. Operations include ground-based firefighting and support from water-bombing helicopters.

Digital Marketing and the Illusion of Growth: Testing the Resilience of MSMEs

Despite over 22 million Indonesian MSMEs joining the digital ecosystem, long-term survival rates and profitability remain stagnant. Soaring advertising costs and a focus on vanity metrics are trapping small businesses in a cycle of dependency on paid traffic. A fundamental strategic reorientation towards building genuine customer relationships and regulatory support is needed to ensure sustainable growth.

Mosque in 'Sunken Village' of Karian Dam Reappears Intact Amid Dry Season

A historic mosque in the submerged village of Karian, Lebak, Banten, has reemerged intact as water levels at the Karian Dam recede due to the dry season. The mosque, believed to date back to the Dutch colonial era, was deliberately left standing when the area was inundated, following a request from descendants of its founder. Officials confirmed that while vegetation was cleared, the buildings in the affected area were never demolished, and the current water level has dropped approximately 80 centimetres below normal.

Boy from Boyolali Finds Vulnerability in NASA's Cybersecurity System, Receives Award

A 12-year-old primary school student from Boyolali, Central Java, named Ibrahim Al Abrar, successfully identified a security vulnerability in NASA's computer system using only a simple laptop and AI platform Deepseek. His discovery, made through a 'broken link hijacking' technique, was reported to NASA, which subsequently sent him a letter of appreciation. Ibrahim, who has been interested in computer programming since the fourth grade, aspires to become a professional cyber security expert.

DPR Urges BNPB to Map El Nino Threat Data for Comprehensive Anticipation Measures

A legislator has urged the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) to collect comprehensive data on the threats posed by the El Nino phenomenon coinciding with the 2026 dry season. Accurate data is deemed essential for designing targeted and effective mitigation plans, particularly to prevent recurring forest and land fires. The call follows a limited cabinet meeting where President Prabowo Subianto instructed his ranks to prepare for the upcoming dry season.

Maintaining Mental Health in Medical Education: Lessons from Epidemiology

Medical students face a high risk of anxiety and burnout due to academic and clinical pressures, but an epidemiological approach can help. By identifying the determinants of mental health—including lifestyle, environment, and biological factors—educational institutions can design systematic prevention strategies. The article argues that creating a supportive learning environment and providing accessible mental health services are more effective than waiting for students to develop problems.

Saudi Arabia Launches Precision Strikes Against Iran-Backed Militias in Iraq Following Drone Attacks on Oil Facilities

Saudi Arabia has conducted precision strikes against Iran-backed militia targets in Iraq, citing the right to self-defence after recent drone attacks on its oil infrastructure. The Saudi Defence Ministry stated the operation was in response to attempted strikes on facilities in the Eastern Province and Riyadh, which were intercepted. Riyadh emphasised it does not seek escalation but will respond to any further aggression against the Kingdom.

Primary School Teacher in Buleleng Named Suspect in Sexual Abuse of 12-Year-Old Pupil

Police in Buleleng, Bali, have arrested a primary school teacher, identified by the initials MGAW, on suspicion of sexually abusing a 12-year-old female pupil. The suspect was taken into custody at his home without resistance and is alleged to have committed the offence on four separate occasions. Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine if there are additional victims.

Visa and Mastercard Finally Penetrate Jakarta's Public Transport Payment System

The Jakarta Provincial Government has officially launched a contactless credit card payment system for MRT Jakarta, allowing passengers to tap in and out using Visa and Mastercard. Governor Pramono Anung stated this first-of-its-kind innovation in Indonesia aims to support Jakarta's vision as a global city and simplify access for international tourists. The initiative is a collaboration between the city administration, Bank Indonesia, and various banking partners, with plans to expand the system to Transjakarta and LRT services.

Israel's Election: Accountability for 7 October and Economic Crisis Dominate Campaign

As Israel approaches its 27 October election, voters are grappling with critical issues including accountability for the 7 October Hamas attack, a shift in military doctrine, and rising economic pressures. The debate over forming an independent inquiry into the intelligence failures that led to the deadliest attack in the nation's history has become a central campaign theme, with the opposition demanding a state commission while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government resists. Alongside security concerns, the electorate faces soaring living costs and a defence budget that has doubled since 2023, forcing a reckoning between massive military spending and urgent domestic needs.

Oil and Gas and Non-Oil and Gas Income Tax Restitution Soars in 2025, Reaching IDR 105.83 Trillion

Indonesia's tax restitution for income tax in the oil and gas and non-oil and gas sectors has surged dramatically in 2025. The Directorate General of Taxes reported a 29,104% leap in oil and gas restitution to IDR 789.51 billion, while non-oil and gas restitution soared 76% to IDR 105.04 trillion. The government is tightening restitution rules, including slashing the accelerated restitution cap for certain taxable entrepreneurs, partly in response to significant payouts to the coal sector.

Indramayu Residents Complain of Difficulty Obtaining 3 kg LPG Cylinders

Residents of Indramayu, West Java, are facing significant difficulties in purchasing subsidised 3 kg LPG cylinders, with some forced to visit up to ten shops before finding stock. The scarcity has also driven up prices, with the cost per canister rising from the normal Rp22,000 to as much as Rp30,000. The situation is causing disruption for small food vendors who rely on the fuel for their daily business operations.

Dedi Mulyadi Slams West Java BUMDs, Calls Out 'Extraordinary Brokering' Practices

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has launched a scathing critique of the province's regional enterprises, accusing them of opaque management and illogical brokering schemes that harm regional finances. He highlighted a questionable oil and gas profit-sharing arrangement and a convoluted mass transport contract that he claims enriches the BUMD at the public's expense. Dedi has pledged to overhaul these systems, including cutting out intermediaries in the Trans Jabar bus project starting in August.

Deputy Minister Urges Textile Industry Restructuring and Tech Adoption to Boost Global Competitiveness

Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Industry, Faisol Riza, has called for the national textile industry to strengthen its global competitiveness through corporate restructuring, increased investment, and the adoption of modern technology. He stressed that boosting production alone is insufficient without collaboration and a focus on innovation. The government is also prioritising the development of a skilled workforce through applied technology education and competency certification to meet dynamic industry demands.

Cyber University Prepares Students for the Digital Era with Industry-Focused Learning

Cyber University has introduced a Company Learning Programme (CLP) 3+1, designed to ensure students are job-ready from day one by combining three years of study with one year of industry internship. The institution argues that higher education must evolve beyond theory to meet the demands of a workforce transformed by artificial intelligence, big data, and the digital economy. This approach aims to produce graduates who are not only academically qualified but also capable of solving real-world business and technology challenges immediately.

Indonesia uses SEABEF to strengthen regional business events role

Indonesia is leveraging the Southeast Asia Business Events Forum (SEABEF) 2026 to cement its position as a regional hub for the MICE industry, which accounted for over 30% of global event management revenue last year. Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana emphasised the sector's role in driving investment, innovation, and sustainable tourism, while Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto outlined plans to integrate business events with leisure at key destinations. The forum, held alongside the Indonesia Business Event Mart, aims to harmonise ASEAN policies and expand strategic partnerships to boost the national MICE ecosystem.

Iran's Resistance to the US and the Rise of the Global South

The article examines the historical roots of US-Iran tensions, tracing them from the 1953 coup against PM Mossadegh through decades of economic sanctions, proxy wars, and political interference. It argues that in response to this sustained pressure, Iran has pursued a strategy of national self-reliance and strengthened cooperation with other Global South nations to build economic and political resilience.

DKPP Issues Stern Warning to KPU Member Over Helicopter Ride to Cianjur

The Election Organiser Ethics Council (DKPP) has sanctioned KPU member Parsadaan Harahap with a stern warning for violating the code of ethics by using a helicopter to attend an event in Cianjur. The council deemed the use of the extraordinary facility for a KPPS inauguration unjustified, as there was no emergency or disaster situation. A West Java KPU member who accompanied him also received a stern warning, while the KPU Secretary General was cleared of any ethical breach.

Golkar Youth Leader Urges AMPI to Accelerate National Congress to Prevent Organisational Manoeuvres

Said Aldi, Chairman of the Golkar Party's Youth and Sports Division, has called for the immediate convening of the AMPI National Congress to prevent unconstitutional decision-making. He warned the current leadership against making manoeuvres that could damage the organisation's image. Aldi also instructed all Golkar-affiliated youth organisations to focus on recruiting two million new cadres.

Indonesia drafts business and human rights regulation

Indonesia is preparing a presidential regulation to enforce human rights compliance in the business sector, establishing a framework for assessment and reporting. The government argues that future corporate success will depend on respect for human rights, not just profits, and that the rules will provide greater legal certainty while protecting affected communities. The regulation, which includes a compliance mechanism and a pilot programme for large companies by 2027, is intended to boost investor confidence and strengthen Indonesia's position in global supply chains.

Judges in LPEI Corruption Case Request Additional Witnesses to Clarify Asset Takeover

The Jakarta Corruption Court has requested prosecutors present additional witnesses in the alleged corruption case involving export financing from the Indonesian Export Financing Institution (LPEI). The judges seek to clarify the process of taking over assets from debtors PT Tebo Indah and PT Pratama Agro Sawit following a debt payment suspension. A BPKP auditor previously testified that state losses in the case reached approximately Rp992.8 billion.

Poor Air Quality in Cipatat Limestone Industrial Area Triggers Respiratory Health Concerns

Air quality measurements in the limestone processing industrial area of Cipatat, West Bandung, have been categorised as poor, with seven out of fifteen homes showing particulate matter levels above safety standards. The local health office has launched mass health screenings for residents, though officials caution that further study is needed to conclusively determine the pollution source. Residents have reported cases of respiratory illness, including a child diagnosed with asthma, amid the deteriorating air conditions.

Indonesian Primary School Student Honoured by NASA for Finding Cybersecurity Flaw

A 12-year-old primary school student from Boyolali, Central Java, has received a letter of appreciation from NASA after identifying a vulnerability in the American space agency's cybersecurity system. Ibrahim Al Abrar, a self-taught programmer, discovered a broken link hijacking flaw in April 2026 and reported it responsibly. His discovery was formally acknowledged by NASA in July 2026, highlighting his valuable skills in information security.

Home Affairs Secretary-General Urges Young IPDN Graduates to Become Agents of Change

The Secretary-General of the Ministry of Home Affairs has called on newly graduated civil servants from the Institute of Home Affairs Governance (IPDN) to act as agents of change and uphold integrity in public service. A total of 1,204 graduates were officially handed over to central and regional government agencies during a ceremony in Sumedang, West Java. The new officials are expected to serve as protectors of the community and maintain public trust wherever they are assigned.

El Niño Forecast to Persist Longer, Next Year Could Be 'Hell'

Scientists warn the current El Niño could become the strongest in 150 years, potentially pushing global temperatures past the Paris Agreement threshold by 2027. The extreme weather phenomenon is expected to cause significant economic damage, with one study estimating potential global losses of US$10 trillion by 2032.

Ministry of Culture Identifies Steps to Preserve Hiliamaetaniha Traditional Village in South Nias

The Ministry of Culture is working to identify preservation measures for the traditional village of Hiliamaetaniha in South Nias Regency, North Sumatra, to safeguard its heritage houses. The initiative, led by the North Sumatra Cultural Heritage Preservation Centre, aims to protect the structures from damage, particularly due to increasingly extreme weather conditions. The ministry emphasised that cultural resilience, fostered through collaboration between the government, community, and stakeholders, is vital for ensuring the sustainability of the village's traditions and values.

Indonesia records US$2.3 billion coal-to-methanol investment

Indonesia has secured a US$2.3 billion investment for a coal-to-methanol downstream project in East Kutai, East Kalimantan, marking a significant step in its strategy to reduce methanol imports and add value to domestic coal resources. The project, developed by PT Bumi Etam Chemical, is designed to produce 2 million metric tons of methanol annually from 7.78 million metric tons of low-calorie coal. Officials emphasised the initiative's role in strengthening national technological independence, creating jobs, and boosting community welfare.

Minister Assures Balanced Copyright Regulation for All Ecosystems, Including Digital Platforms

Minister of Law Supratman Andi Agtas has guaranteed that Indonesia's forthcoming copyright regulations will be balanced for all stakeholders, including digital platforms and publishers. The assurance was made during a dialogue with Google representatives, who expressed support for a regulatory framework that balances the interests of users, publishers, and platforms. The government also pledged to honour all existing commercial contracts between platforms and publishers.

Inclusive Education Programme: A New Paradigm Towards Educational Equity

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is shifting its focus towards inclusive education, moving away from a purely cognitive assessment model. This initiative aims to address the needs of over 341,000 students with disabilities, many of whom are currently enrolled in regular schools that lack special guidance teachers. The government has launched a tiered teacher training programme to ensure quality education for all students.

Indonesia to kick off independence month with interfaith prayer

The Indonesian government will commence Independence Month with a national interfaith prayer and remembrance event at the National Monument square in Jakarta. Led by Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar, the gathering will feature representatives from all six recognised religions alongside a large-scale Islamic dhikr, aiming to foster solidarity and seek divine blessing for the nation's aspirations. The ministry hopes the event will strengthen interfaith relations and unite the country in the pursuit of a sovereign, just, and prosperous Indonesia.

Trans Jateng Targets Magelang-Temanggung Corridor Operation by 2027

The Central Java provincial government is advancing plans to expand its Trans Jateng bus rapid transit system, with the Magelang-Temanggung corridor targeted to begin operations in 2027. Preparations, including technical work and public consultation, are already underway for the new route, which will be served by a fleet of 14 buses. A further expansion to connect Jepara, Kudus, and Pati is scheduled to follow, with a cooperation agreement expected to be signed in 2027 for a 2028 launch.

Indonesia records US$2.3 billion coal-to-methanol investment

Indonesia has secured a US$2.3 billion investment for a coal-to-methanol gasification project in East Kutai, East Kalimantan, marking a significant step in downstream mineral processing. The facility, developed by PT Bumi Etam Chemical, aims to produce 2 million metric tons of methanol annually while reducing the nation's reliance on imports. Officials emphasised the project's role in strengthening technological independence, creating jobs, and generating broader economic benefits for local communities.

Traffic Education Programme in Batam Schools Cuts Student Violations by Up to 66%

A traffic education curriculum integrated into Civics lessons across 210 state schools in Batam has led to a significant drop in traffic violations among students. Violations fell by 19% at primary level, 66% at junior secondary, and 49% at senior secondary, according to police data. The programme, launched in December 2025, aims to instil discipline and safety awareness as part of a broader character-building initiative aligned with national human resource development goals.

Cooperatives Deemed Highly Suitable for Development in Indonesia, Says Minister

Minister of Cooperatives Ferry Juliantono has stated that cooperatives are implicitly the most suitable form of business entity for Indonesia, aligning with the constitutional mandate of Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution. The government under President Prabowo Subianto is committed to steering the national economy back towards a constitutional economic model based on family principles. Key initiatives include rebranding to attract younger generations, improving governance, and accelerating digitalisation to modernise the sector.

Three Beggars Arrested in Karawang, Two Others Remain at Large

Police in Karawang, West Java, have arrested three suspects involved in a violent robbery and are hunting two more. The victim was threatened with a sharp weapon and a toy gun before his motorcycle and belongings were stolen.

Thousands of Hectares of Farmland in 26 Tasikmalaya Districts Threatened by Crop Failure

A prolonged dry season has left 2,172 hectares of agricultural land in Tasikmalaya Regency, West Java, facing severe water shortages and the threat of crop failure. The drought has spread across 26 districts, with the worst-affected areas including Manonjaya and Cikalong. Local authorities are urging farmers to switch to secondary crops as a mitigation measure while hoping for rain in August.

How to Update Your Desil Online via the Cek Bansos App

Indonesians can now update their welfare classification, known as 'desil', online without visiting a sub-district office. The process is completed through the Cek Bansos application, which is crucial for determining eligibility for government social assistance programmes. A social worker will subsequently conduct a home survey to verify the updated information.

UK Export Finance Ready to Disburse £4 Billion for Indonesian Development Projects

UK Export Finance (UKEF) has announced a £4 billion financing capacity for Indonesia, aimed at supporting the nation's development ambitions. The funds are intended to provide competitive financing solutions, particularly for infrastructure projects involving British goods and services. The announcement was made during a railway partnership forum, highlighting the UK's commitment to long-term collaboration in Indonesia's transport sector.

Systemic Failures in Regional Leadership Recruitment Blamed for Recurring Corruption

A series of sting operations ensnaring 17 regional heads in 1.5 years has exposed deep systemic failures in Indonesia's political recruitment and campaign financing. Critics argue that political parties prioritise wealthy, high-electability figures over integrity, while exorbitant political costs drive elected officials to recoup their expenses through graft. Reform of internal party mechanisms and the political financing system is deemed essential to break the cycle of corruption.

Minister urges teachers to teach with joy and compassion

Primary and Secondary Education Minister Abdul Mu'ti has called on Indonesian teachers to embrace their profession with joy and compassion, urging them to become lifelong learners alongside their students. He outlined new policies to improve teacher welfare and quality, including a scholarship programme recognising prior learning to help 150,000 teachers complete their degrees within 18 months. The government has also relaxed requirements on degree linearity, allowing a broader subject-cluster approach and counting professional development activities toward the mandatory teaching workload.

Iran Urges UN to Play Active Role in Post-War Reconstruction

Iran has called on the United Nations to take an active role in assessing war damage and supporting reconstruction efforts following recent conflicts with the US and Israel. Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi stressed the need for the UN to provide a realistic picture of the humanitarian and economic impact. The UN representative in Iran affirmed readiness to share damage reports and mobilise international financial support.

Forestry Ministry Uncovers Protected Wildlife Trade on Facebook, Seizes Rare Birds

The Indonesian Ministry of Forestry's law enforcement division has exposed an illegal wildlife trade operation conducted via Facebook, seizing seven protected birds in Jayapura, Papua. The operation highlights the growing use of digital platforms by traffickers and the need for adaptive law enforcement strategies. A suspect has been arrested and faces up to 15 years in prison under the nation's conservation laws.

BUMI to Convert 7.7 Million Tonnes of Low-Calorie Coal into Methanol

PT Bumi Etam Chemical (BEC) plans to utilise 7.7 million tonnes of low-calorie coal annually to produce 2 million tonnes of methanol. The project, a joint venture between PT Kaltim Prima Coal and PT Arutmin Indonesia, represents a significant downstream initiative to add value to Indonesia's coal resources. The company has signed FEED and EPCC framework agreements, with the facility strategically located on the Makassar Strait to facilitate global distribution.

Bank Indonesia Restructures Payment System Industry to Bolster Resilience Against Cyber Risks

Bank Indonesia is restructuring the payment system industry to enhance resilience against growing cyber threats, fraud, and transactional complexity. The central bank will use the TIKMI indicator to assess operators' risk management capabilities across licensing, development, and supervision. The initiative also mandates stronger IT infrastructure reliability and clearer cooperation frameworks between payment service providers and their partners.

Prosecutors Resubmit Dr Tifa's Case File to East Jakarta Court, Trial Set for 6 August

Prosecutors have resubmitted the case file against Tifauzia Tyassuma, known as Dr Tifa, to the East Jakarta District Court after a previous indictment was declared null and void. The case concerns alleged defamation against former President Joko Widodo over slander regarding a fake diploma. The trial is scheduled to recommence with the reading of the revised indictment on 6 August 2026.

17 Regional Heads Caught in KPK Sting Operations, Researcher Says Light Sentences Fail to Deter Corruption

A researcher from Mulawarman University's Centre for Anti-Corruption Studies has stated that the prosecution of corrupt officials, including 17 regional heads caught in sting operations over the past 1.5 years, has failed to provide a deterrent effect. Herdiansyah Hamzah attributed this to the lenient sentences handed down, averaging only 1.5 years in prison, and criticised the national leadership for appearing permissive towards corruption. He warned that without comprehensive reform, including heavier sentences and stronger presidential commitment, graft cases among regional heads will continue to recur.

Pengawasan Diperketat: Disperdagkop-UM Kabupaten Madiun Tegaskan KSP Wajib Taat

The Trade, Cooperatives, and Micro Enterprises Agency (Disperdagkop-UM) of Madiun Regency is tightening oversight of cooperatives, particularly Savings and Loan Cooperatives (KSP), to ensure compliance with regulations and member welfare. Officials stressed that cooperatives must adhere to proper licensing via the OSS system, maintain correct business classification codes, and cap loan interest rates at 2% per month, with strict sanctions for violations. The agency also aims to shift loan collection practices from weekly to monthly cycles and warned the public against loan sharks operating under the guise of cooperatives, citing a past criminal case against a KSP officer for intimidation.

KPK's 18th OTT in 2026 Nets Pemalang Regent, Bringing Total of Regional Heads Arrested to 12

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has conducted 18 sting operations so far in 2026, with 12 of them involving regional heads. The latest operation resulted in the arrest of Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro, highlighting a recurring pattern of corruption in Central Java.