Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 29 July 2026

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Police Arrest Two Suspects in Rp1.2 Billion Tyre Puncture Theft in Bengkulu

Police have arrested two men in Bengkulu for their alleged involvement in a tyre-puncture theft that netted Rp1.2 billion in West Jakarta. The suspects, identified as the window-smasher and the motorcycle rider, were tracked down through CCTV analysis and digital tracing. Authorities are still pursuing two other individuals connected to the case.

US Bombs Iranian City Near Iraqi Border Amid Renewed Regional Tensions

The United States military has bombed a city in northwestern Iran near the Iraqi border, according to Iranian state television. The attack follows a brief lull in hostilities and comes after US Central Command reported intercepting Iranian ballistic missiles aimed at its regional bases. The exchange marks a renewed escalation in the direct military confrontation between the two nations.

Indonesian rice field eels enter Chinese market

Indonesia has successfully exported rice field eels to China after its quality assurance framework was recognised as equivalent to Chinese standards under a mutual recognition arrangement. The first shipments in 2025 totalled 170 metric tons, valued at 3.5 billion rupiah, from certified facilities in South Kalimantan. This development underscores Indonesia's growing access to the Chinese seafood market, which imported $1.04 billion worth of Indonesian fisheries products last year.

Garuda Indonesia and Saudia expand international tourist access to Indonesia

Garuda Indonesia has partnered with Saudia to broaden international tourist access to Indonesia by strengthening global connectivity. The collaboration, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding, aims to link Saudia's extensive international network with Garuda's domestic routes. This strategic move is expected to boost tourism, international traffic, and national economic activity.

GoTo Posts Net Profit for Two Consecutive Quarters, Demonstrating Ecosystem Strength

Indonesian tech giant PT GoTo Gojek Tokopedia Tbk (GOTO) reported a net profit of Rp607 billion for the first half of 2026, reversing a loss of Rp580 billion in the same period last year. The company's net revenue surged 28.4% to Rp10.99 trillion, driven by growth across its delivery, fintech, and e-commerce segments. This marks the second consecutive quarter of profitability for the firm.

5 Central Java Regents Snared in KPK Sting Operations, Governor Luthfi: 'I'm Exhausted'

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi expressed deep frustration and regret after the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) arrested Pemalang Regent Anom Widyantoro, marking the fifth regent from the province caught in a sting operation in 2026. Luthfi detailed numerous preventative measures he had implemented, including integrity pacts and coordination meetings with the anti-graft body. He admitted to being at a loss for what further steps to take, stating he was 'exhausted' by the recurring corruption cases among regional heads.

National Police Chief Revives 'Smile, Greet, Salute' Culture to Strengthen Public Trust

The Head of the Indonesian National Police Traffic Corps, Inspector General Wibowo, is reinforcing a humanistic approach to public service by reactivating the '3S' culture—Senyum, Sapa, Salam (Smile, Greet, Salute). He outlined five key pillars of the 'Polantas KARIB' programme, emphasizing partnership, proactivity, responsiveness, intuition, and integrity to transform traffic officers into public friends. The initiative aims to bridge the gap between police and the community, with the programme already being implemented across all regional traffic units nationwide.

Bogor City Police Uncover 61 Drug Cases in Three Months, Seize Cannabis and Meth

The Bogor City Police narcotics unit has dismantled 61 drug trafficking cases between May and July, arresting 68 suspects. Authorities seized significant quantities of cannabis, methamphetamine, synthetic tobacco, and hundreds of thousands of hard drugs, potentially saving over 380,000 lives. The syndicates reportedly used courier services, disguising illicit substances as vehicle spare parts.

Indonesia sees US$251.34 mln export potential in traditional textiles

Indonesia's Deputy Trade Minister Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri has highlighted a US$251.34 million export potential for traditional textiles, supported by 424 business matching sessions facilitated in the first half of 2026. Speaking at Indonesia Fashion Week 2026, which features North Sumatra's Ulos cloth, she emphasised the government's commitment to transforming cultural heritage into high-value global commodities. The initiative aims to balance heritage preservation with commercial innovation, using fashion as a tool for cultural diplomacy and economic growth.

Central Java Governor Comments After Pemalang Regent Caught in KPK Sting Operation

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi expressed deep regret following the arrest of Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro in a KPK sting operation. Luthfi emphasised that the regent's alleged corruption is an individual act, not an institutional one, and highlighted the province's existing anti-corruption measures. The KPK stated the case involves suspected receipt of money related to projects and the buying and selling of positions, with 21 people detained and Rp 2 billion in cash seized.

KP2MI and BAZNAS Build Welfare Ecosystem for Migrant Workers

Indonesia's Ministry for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (KP2MI) and the National Alms Agency (BAZNAS) have partnered to expand protection and empowerment for migrant workers through zakat management, financing assistance, and scholarships. The collaboration aims to transform migrant workers from zakat recipients into zakat payers while building long-term welfare foundations. The initiative includes establishing Zakat Collection Units abroad and providing digital literacy tools to ensure aid programmes are well-targeted.

KTP2JB and KPPU Collaborate to Strengthen Digital Platform Oversight

The Committee for Digital Platform Responsibility for Quality Journalism (KTP2JB) and the Competition Supervisory Commission (KPPU) have formalised a partnership to enhance monitoring of digital platform obligations. The collaboration aims to ensure compliance with Presidential Regulation 32/2024 and uphold fair competition in the digital economy. Both bodies emphasised that the initiative is designed to foster innovation within a legal framework that serves the public interest.

UNM Students Train PKK Women to Turn Kitchen Waste into Soap and Hand Sanitiser

Students from Universitas Nusa Mandiri (UNM) have conducted a training programme for PKK women in East Jakarta, teaching them to convert organic kitchen waste into multipurpose soap and hand sanitiser using eco enzymes. The initiative aims to reduce household waste while equipping participants with skills to create environmentally friendly products that can generate additional income. The programme is part of a broader commitment by the university to foster community empowerment and circular economy practices.

Hegarmukti Residents in Cikarang Complain of Road Dust from Trucks

Residents of Kampung Tegal Danas in Bekasi Regency have declared a 'dust emergency' due to thick dust allegedly caused by heavy truck traffic from nearby batching plants. The local environmental agency has launched an investigation and deployed water trucks to mitigate the issue, while residents demand permanent action against the health and environmental impacts.

Jokowi to Visit Kupang This Weekend, PSI Says Thousands of NTT Residents Are Waiting

Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo is scheduled to visit Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, this weekend to support the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI), which is chaired by his son Kaesang Pangarep. The regional PSI chairman claims thousands of residents are eagerly anticipating his arrival for a series of public events, including a morning walk and a cultural carnival. The visit is part of a wider political tour Jokowi is undertaking to bolster support for PSI across various regions.

Waste-to-energy plant in Legok Nangka to strengthen power supply and absorb 1,500 workers

The Indonesian government has commenced construction of the Legok Nangka waste-to-energy plant in West Java, a joint venture with a Japanese firm. The facility is expected to generate 40 Megawatts of electricity and create approximately 1,500 jobs during the construction phase. The project aims to address waste management issues in the region while boosting renewable energy capacity, with commercial operations targeted for 2029.

2,000 Toddlers at Risk of Stunting Receive Assistance in East Nusa Tenggara

A collaborative health initiative has provided nutritional aid, growth screening, and health consultations to 2,000 toddlers at risk of stunting in Kupang and Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara. The programme, involving Apotek K-24, Sarihusada, and Nestlé Indonesia, also focused on educating parents and local health workers to ensure sustainable community-based monitoring. Officials emphasised that cross-sector cooperation is essential to accelerating stunting reduction and improving long-term health outcomes for children.

BGN Chief Denies Free Nutritious Meal Programme Drains State Budget

The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sudaryono, has refuted claims that the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme is depleting the state budget at the expense of other development projects. He highlighted that other government priorities, such as school renovations, fertiliser subsidies, and irrigation revitalisation, are still receiving significant funding. Sudaryono also urged the public not to compare the condition of damaged schools with newly built MBG kitchens, stating they operate under different financing schemes.

Police arrest two more members of gang that stole Rp1.2 billion using tyre-puncturing modus operandi

Jakarta police have apprehended two additional suspects linked to a theft gang that stole Rp1.2 billion in cash from a motorist in Kalideres, West Jakarta. The suspects, who acted as the window smasher and the motorcycle rider, were tracked to Bengkulu after an investigation involving CCTV analysis and IT tracking. Authorities are still pursuing two other individuals connected to the case.

Houthis Claim Ballistic Missile Attack on Saudi Oil Tanker in Red Sea

Yemen's Houthi group has claimed responsibility for launching a ballistic missile attack against a Saudi-flagged oil tanker, the NCC GHAZAL, forcing it to turn back. The group stated the attack was in response to the vessel violating a maritime blockade imposed on Saudi-linked ships. Saudi authorities have not yet officially commented on the latest incident, which follows a similar attack the previous week.

Yusril calls for increased patrols and public education to prevent vigilante justice

Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra has urged regional police to boost patrols and educate the public against vigilante actions. His call follows a spate of mob justice incidents in Bangka Belitung, where suspected criminals have been beaten to death. The minister stressed that maintaining public order and preventing such violence requires collaboration between the police, local government, and religious leaders.

Village Electricity Programme Seen as Strengthening National Development Equity

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has praised the government's commitment to accelerating the Village Electricity Programme, which aims to connect over 1,400 villages to power by August 2026. The initiative is viewed as a strategic move to expand energy access, boost economic growth, and improve public services in underserved areas. Lawmakers have pledged to oversee the programme's effective implementation to ensure equitable development across the archipelago.

BI reforms payment system industry regulations through seven key reinforcements

Bank Indonesia is overhauling its payment system industry regulations with seven strategic reinforcements to build a more adaptive and resilient sector. The reform, part of the Indonesia Payment System Blueprint 2030, aims to ensure the industry keeps pace with rapid digital transaction growth. The central bank emphasised that collaboration with industry players and authorities is crucial for a healthy and sustainable ecosystem.

Police Uncover New Facts in Reconstruction of Alleged Burning of Three Islamic Students in Lombok

Investigators have discovered new facts during a crime scene reconstruction of the alleged burning of three Islamic boarding school students in Central Lombok. The reconstruction, involving over 50 scenes, revealed actions that placed the victims in a dangerous situation leading to their burning. The findings are part of an ongoing investigation that has examined 24 witnesses and eight expert witnesses.

Integrated RDTR Accelerates Automatic PKKPR Issuance

The Indonesian government has integrated its Detailed Spatial Plan (RDTR) with the Online Single Submission (OSS) system to enable automatic issuance of Spatial Utilisation Activity Conformity Approvals (PKKPR) for businesses. This mechanism, effective since June 2025 under Government Regulation No. 28/2025, allows eligible enterprises to obtain the required document within minutes, bypassing technical assessments and non-tax state revenue fees. The number of integrated RDTRs has reached 570, expanding the areas where businesses can benefit from this streamlined licensing process.

Bandung City Government Strengthens Literacy, 1,800 Books Accessible via Mobile Phones

The Bandung city government has launched the MACA (Membaca Cerdas) digital platform to boost public literacy by providing access to 1,800 digital books via mobile phones. The initiative, unveiled at the 2026 Bandung Literacy Festival, aims to foster curiosity and provide reliable information through a collaboration between the government, academia, and the private sector. The platform is part of a broader effort to transform library services and integrate literacy with community empowerment and character building.

BGN Chief Urges Public Not to Pit Damaged Schools Against Free Nutritious Meal Programme

The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sudaryono, has called on the public to stop comparing dilapidated school buildings with the new kitchens built for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. He clarified that the schools in question were already damaged before the programme began and are being repaired by the government. Sudaryono emphasised that the BGN is focused on food hygiene and safety, while school repairs fall under a different ministry and can be reported via an official portal.

Mataram City Government Prepares Sanctions for Bank Employees and Retirees Occupying Teachers' Official Residences

The Mataram City Government is moving to reclaim teachers' official residences allegedly misused by unauthorised occupants, including bank employees and retirees. The Education Department discovered illegal rentals and sales of the properties, with only 80 of 168 units currently deemed habitable. Mayor Mohan Roliskana has vowed strict enforcement, noting that properly managed regional assets could become a source of local revenue.

KPK Seizes Pajero Sport from Wife of Kuansing Regent

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized a Mitsubishi Pajero Sport belonging to the wife of Kuantan Singingi Regent Suhardiman Amby, as part of an investigation into alleged bribery related to local government appointments. The probe has expanded to include money changing transactions and alleged cash payments to the Ministry of Forestry, with investigators examining multiple witnesses including ministry officials and money changers. Three suspects, including the regent, have been detained, while the role of Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni is being investigated after the KPK rejected his self-reported gratuity notice.

Farhan Urges RBM to Expand Services for Vulnerable Groups

Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan has called on the Community-Based Rehabilitation (RBM) programme to broaden its reach to vulnerable populations, including people with disabilities, women, the elderly, and children. He stressed the importance of measurable impact and strong collaboration between the government and society. Farhan also highlighted the need for good organisational governance to attract partnerships with philanthropic institutions.

Mosque in 'Lost Village' of Karian Dam Remains Intact as Water Recedes

The Al Mujahidin mosque in the former Kampung Somang, now part of the Karian Dam reservoir in Banten, remains standing despite the area being flooded. As water levels recede due to drought, the ruins of the abandoned village have re-emerged, with the mosque notably preserved following a community request. Officials confirmed that while the village was cleared for the dam project, structures were not demolished, only stripped of trees and plants.

Russia Issues Arrest Warrant, Telegram Boss Flips the Bird

Russia has indicted Telegram founder Pavel Durov on terrorism charges, alleging the platform was used by Ukrainian intelligence for recruitment. Durov responded defiantly on social media, while Russian authorities claim Telegram failed to remove channels used to coordinate sabotage.

EV Competition Heats Up as Omoda O4 Launches with 553 km Range on Single Charge

Jaecoo Indonesia has introduced the Omoda O4 EV at the GIIAS 2026 motor show, intensifying competition in the country's electric vehicle market. The new model features a 67 kWh LFP battery capable of travelling up to 553 kilometres on a single charge, though pricing has yet to be announced. The company is offering incentives for the first 1,000 pre-orders during the exhibition to gauge market interest.

BEC Targets Coal Downstreaming to Reduce Methanol Imports

PT Bumi Etam Chemical (BEC) is advancing a coal gasification project in East Kalimantan to produce 2 million tonnes of methanol annually, aiming to curb Indonesia's reliance on imports. The project is driven by rising domestic methanol demand, partly fuelled by the government's B50 biodiesel programme, which currently costs the country approximately US$400 million per year in foreign exchange. Commercial operations are targeted for 2030, with the venture expected to significantly reduce the national trade deficit.

South Korea's SK hynix Posts Record Financial Performance

South Korean chipmaker SK hynix reported record quarterly earnings, driven by sustained demand from artificial intelligence infrastructure investments. The company's operating profit surged over 557 per cent year-on-year, marking its highest quarterly performance ever. SK hynix is also expanding multi-year supply agreements with major clients to secure long-term stability amid the AI-driven chip boom.

Indonesia's INA targets more foreign capital with top GSR ranking

The Indonesia Investment Authority (INA) has achieved a 92 percent score on the 2026 GSR Scoreboard, ranking second in Asia behind Singapore's Temasek. INA leadership believes this strong independent assessment of its governance, sustainability, and resilience will be a crucial factor in attracting more international capital partners to the country. The sovereign wealth fund views the recognition as a national success story, as increased foreign investment will directly benefit the Indonesian economy.

Cyber University Introduces 3+1 CLP to New Students' Parents

Cyber University in Jakarta has briefed parents of new students for the 2026/2027 academic year on its Company Learning Program (CLP) 3+1, designed to prepare graduates for the digital economy. The programme combines three years of academic and project-based learning with a full year of structured industry internship. The university emphasised the need for adaptability and lifelong learning in the face of rapid technological disruption, particularly artificial intelligence.

BRIN proposes virtual power plant for Nusantara's 2045 NZE goal

Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has proposed developing a virtual power plant (VPP) to help the new capital Nusantara achieve its net-zero emissions target by 2045, ahead of the national 2060 goal. The VPP would aggregate clean energy from distributed sources like rooftop solar panels, allowing buildings to share excess power and potentially reduce fossil fuel dependence by up to 55 percent. Researchers also highlighted that the system could pioneer a new electricity business model, enabling power trading among end users rather than relying solely on upstream generation.

Hyundai Brings Full Line-Up to GIIAS 2026, from ICE to Electric and Hybrid

PT Hyundai Motors Indonesia unveiled a comprehensive range of new models at the GIIAS 2026 auto show, including the premium Ioniq 9 electric SUV, the locally produced NEIRA electric prototype, and updated ICE models. The company also announced permanent price reductions for the Stargazer Cartenz line, positioning the move as a long-term commitment to the Indonesian market rather than a temporary promotion.

Tanker MT Poka Jo Fails to Dock at Siau Port Due to High Waves

The fuel tanker MT Poka Jo, which had been towed after suffering engine failure in the waters off Siau, was unable to dock at Siau Port due to rough seas. All 12 crew members remain safe and on standby aboard the vessel. The tanker was being towed by the MT Keiyo 02 after initially reporting a disturbance that caused the ship to list.

Indonesia drafts AI guidelines for creative economy sectors

Indonesia's Creative Economy Minister has announced plans to translate forthcoming national AI regulations into practical guidelines for the country's 21 creative economy subsectors. The initiative, which follows a presidential regulation on the 2026-2045 Creative Economy Master Plan, will include AI readiness assessments, sandbox programmes, and literacy training. The government is prioritising sectors such as culinary arts, crafts, fashion, gaming, and film to drive economic growth and job creation.

MIND ID Confident Local Supplier Involvement Strengthens National Economy

State-owned mining holding company MIND ID has affirmed that engaging local and domestic suppliers is crucial for strengthening the national economy. The group consistently ensures over 90 percent of its suppliers are local or domestic businesses, aiming to boost the Domestic Component Level (TKDN) and expand regional economic benefits. This approach aligns with government efforts to enhance national economic sovereignty and industrial capacity through downstreaming and local content policies.

Japanese Investment in Indonesia Strengthens in H1 2026, BKPM Reveals More Aggressive Trend

Japanese foreign direct investment in Indonesia reached USD 1.9 billion in the first half of 2026, making Japan the country's fourth-largest investor. The Investment Ministry highlighted this as a reflection of growing confidence and a long-term partnership focused on manufacturing and technology transfer. The government is leveraging international events like the Osaka World Expo to secure further commitments, particularly in green industry and downstream processing.

AMMAN Engages Thousands of Students in School Waste Management

PT Amman Mineral Nusa Tenggara (AMMAN) has expanded its School Waste Management Programme in West Sumbawa Regency, involving thousands of students in converting organic waste into compost. The initiative integrates environmental education with circular economy practices, aiming to transform schools into community learning hubs. Since 2022, the programme has processed over 150 tonnes of organic waste and generated a Social Return on Investment of 4.09.

Indonesia sees strong Japanese investment growth in first half 2026

Japan solidified its position as a key economic partner for Indonesia, contributing US$1.9 billion in foreign direct investment during the first half of 2026, which accounted for 6.2 percent of total FDI. The robust inflows, part of a broader Rp1,010.6 trillion total investment figure, underscore growing international confidence in the Indonesian economy. The government is leveraging global events like the Osaka World Expo, which generated US$28.9 billion in potential commitments, to further attract capital into strategic sectors such as green industry and downstream development.

Saudi Air Defences Intercept Drones Targeting Oil Facilities

Saudi Arabia's air defence systems intercepted and destroyed several drones attempting to attack oil facilities in the kingdom's eastern region. The attacks, launched from Iraqi territory, were attributed to Iran-backed militias, according to a Saudi defence ministry spokesman. This marks the second consecutive day of such interceptions, underscoring persistent threats to the country's critical energy infrastructure.

BGN Chief Responds to Attorney General's Revelation of Rp 10.5 Trillion Waste in Free Nutritious Meal Programme

The Attorney General's Office has revealed an annual budgetary waste of Rp 10.5 trillion in the Free Nutritious Meal programme. The disclosure was made during a pretrial hearing filed by a former deputy chief of the National Nutrition Agency. The current head of the agency declined to comment on the actions of his predecessors but pledged full cooperation with the ongoing legal process.

Soltius Indonesia Adopts AI SAP Joule to Enhance Consultancy Services

PT Soltius Indonesia has adopted the SAP Joule for Consultants artificial intelligence tool to improve the quality and speed of its SAP-based consultancy services. The move aims to overcome challenges such as lengthy documentation searches and manual troubleshooting, while accelerating digital transformation for its clients. The company, a SAP Platinum Partner under Metrodata Group, expects the AI to boost productivity and deliver more consistent business outcomes.

Indonesia accelerates 15 dam projects to boost food security

Indonesia is accelerating the construction of 15 dams across 10 provinces with a combined budget of Rp32.8 trillion to reduce rain-fed farming dependency and bolster resilience against climate-linked droughts and floods. The projects are expected to store over 1 billion cubic meters of water and irrigate more than 200,000 hectares of agricultural land, significantly enhancing national food security. Beyond irrigation, the dams will also contribute to flood control, raw water supply, and renewable energy development.

West Java Governor: Integrated, Equitable Public Transport is a Basic Need

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has stated that integrated and equitable public transport is now a basic necessity for citizens, marking the start of the Bandung Basin BRT project. The Rp1.3 trillion project, part of the national Mass Transit Programme, aims to reduce congestion and improve mobility across the metropolitan area. The system is expected to be fully operational by 2027, featuring dedicated lanes, smart technology, and extensive feeder networks.