Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 30 July 2026

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Islamic Banking Market Share Stagnates at 7 Percent, Shifting Civil Servant Payroll Seen as Key

An expert from the IIUM Institute of Islamic Banking and Finance has stated that Indonesia's Islamic banking market share remains critically low at around 7 percent, despite the country's large Muslim population. He argues that a government policy shift, specifically moving the payroll of civil servants (ASN) from conventional to Islamic banks, is essential to boost growth. Projections suggest that with moderate government intervention, the market share could reach 50 percent by 2045, compared to just 13 percent without any intervention.

The Environmental Crisis is Fundamentally an Education Crisis

The article argues that despite advanced technology and widespread knowledge about climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, environmental destruction continues because knowledge does not automatically translate into behavioural change. It posits that the root of the ecological crisis is a failure of education to instil wisdom and moral limits, as many environmental exploitations are driven by highly educated individuals.

KUMITRA Jambore 2026 Generates Rp6.88 Billion in Potential Business Deals for West Java MSMEs

The KUMITRA Jambore 2026, organised by the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, recorded potential transactions and partnership commitments worth Rp6.88 billion. The event aimed to integrate micro-enterprises into the national supply chain and expand their market access. The government is also leveraging the SAPA UMKM platform to provide integrated services including mentorship, business legality, and financing.

East Jakarta Fire Service Extinguishes House Fire in Cibubur

The East Jakarta Fire and Rescue Service swiftly contained a house fire on Jalan Rukun, Cibubur, on Thursday, preventing it from spreading to neighbouring buildings. The homeowner and her two children escaped unharmed, with the blaze suspected to have been caused by an electrical short circuit. The incident prompted officials to reiterate calls for the public to regularly check electrical installations to mitigate fire risks.

Sidoarjo Police Launch 24-Hour Mobile Driving Licence Service for 17 Days

The Sidoarjo Police have introduced a 24-hour mobile driving licence (SIM) service operating nonstop for 17 days to improve public administration and celebrate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The initiative, which includes a motorcycle door prize, aims to provide greater flexibility for residents who cannot visit during standard working hours. The service will run from 30 July to 15 August 2026 at designated locations.

Home Affairs Minister Tito Urges Regional Governments to Streamline Budgets Before Seeking Additional Funds

Minister of Home Affairs Tito Karnavian has instructed regional governments to first scrutinise and streamline their operational expenditures before requesting additional budget allocations from the central government. He cited cases in East Nusa Tenggara and Tidore, where internal budget reviews revealed sufficient funds to cover salary shortfalls without extra central assistance. The ministry is deploying teams to audit regional finances to ensure fiscal discipline and prevent unnecessary top-up requests.

BRI Equips Indonesian Migrant Workers in Taiwan with Entrepreneurship Skills to Build Productive Businesses

Bank BRI has launched an empowerment programme for Indonesian migrant workers (PMI) in Taiwan, providing training in entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and business plan development. The initiative aims to transform remittances into productive business capital, enabling workers to become independent entrepreneurs upon returning to Indonesia. Corporate Secretary Dhanny stated the programme is part of BRI's commitment to creating sustainable social impact by strengthening the economic capacity of Indonesian communities.

Deputy Minister: Creative Trip Concept Adds Economic Value Through Experience

Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar has promoted the 'creative trip' concept as a new approach to strengthen local creative economies through authentic experiences. The initiative, highlighted during the Toadore Festival in Yogyakarta, aims to boost tourism, expand marketing for MSME products, and create added value for communities. The festival, organised by students from Tidore, showcases regional culture and creative potential to a wider audience.

Prabowo studies India's housing model to speed up homebuilding

President Prabowo Subianto has revealed that Indonesia is studying India's success in constructing 40 million homes over 12 years as a benchmark for accelerating domestic housing development. He noted that technical teams have been dispatched to India, China, and Egypt to learn best practices and innovative techniques. The government is committed to evaluating construction and financing models to address the significant demand for affordable housing across the archipelago.

Teater Koma Invites Public to Reflect on Humanity Across Eras

Jakarta's Teater Koma is restaging the play 'Rumah Sakit Jiwa' (Mental Hospital) after 35 years, offering a renewed artistic interpretation to prompt societal reflection on humanity. The production explores timeless themes of power and social issues through the story of a new doctor clashing with a hospital's rigid hierarchy. The revival incorporates modern staging, music, and research into mental health to resonate with contemporary audiences.

Forest Fires in Eastern Indonesia Extinguished, BNPB Warns of Drought and Strong Winds

The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has confirmed the successful containment of forest and land fires in North Sulawesi and Southwest Papua, which collectively scorched 29 hectares. While no casualties were reported, the agency has issued a stark warning about the heightened risk of further fires and drought as the dry season peaks. Authorities are urging the public to avoid open burning and to conserve water amid the ongoing dry spell.

Retail Prices Predicted to Rise Starting October 2026, Here's the Trigger

The Indonesian Shopping Centre Management Association (APPBI) warns that retail prices are likely to increase from the fourth quarter of 2026 due to rising production, logistics, and energy costs. Retailers are expected to implement strategies such as using cheaper raw materials and smaller packaging to maintain affordability, while urging the government to stabilise the domestic economy and boost consumer confidence.

KOI partners with Sampoerna Foundation to strengthen student-athlete programme

The Indonesian Olympic Committee (KOI) has partnered with the Sampoerna Foundation to bolster its student-athlete programme, aiming to build an ecosystem that develops athletes' sporting achievements alongside their education and character. The collaboration will provide international educational support, including IELTS preparation and scholarship opportunities, through the foundation's network of academies and universities. Young swimmer Michael Xander Samosir has already secured a scholarship to the United States as part of the initiative.

Indonesia prioritizes occupancy over new industrial estates

Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita has called for a strategic shift in Indonesia's industrial estate development, prioritising occupancy and comprehensive ecosystem building over the mere addition of new estates. Speaking at a national meeting, he urged managers to evolve beyond land provision into integrated hubs offering investment facilitation, supply chain integration, and workforce training. The policy direction comes as the manufacturing sector remains a cornerstone of the economy, contributing over 19 percent to GDP and employing more than 20 million people.

Malaysia and NTB Hold B2B Roadshow to Strengthen Tourism and Education Ties

Malaysia concluded a business-to-business roadshow in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, aiming to boost tourism and educational exchanges ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026-2027. The initiative integrates edu-tourism packages and targets 4.7 million international arrivals, with Indonesia being a key market. Local industry players in NTB plan reciprocal promotions, including showcasing the MotoGP event and Rinjani Travel Mart to Malaysian tourists.

Forest and Land Fires in Sumedang's Cinanjung Village Extinguished by Joint Task Force

A joint task force successfully extinguished a forest and land fire in Cinanjung Village, Sumedang Regency, West Java, following a swift response to local reports. The West Java Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has warned of an increasing number of hotspots across the province due to the dry season. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and avoid activities that could spark further fires.

PKB Legislator Proposes Regional Elections Without Deputies, Heads to Appoint After Winning

A legislator from the National Awakening Party (PKB) has proposed that regional elections only select a head of region, with the deputy to be appointed by the winner. The proposal aims to resolve systemic disharmony between regional heads and their deputies, which the legislator claims affects nearly 60 per cent of regions. The current system is criticised for reducing deputies to mere vote-getters with no meaningful authority unless delegated tasks by the head.

Prabowo to Gather Regional Heads in Jakarta to Discuss 'Indonesia ASRI' Programme

President Prabowo Subianto plans to convene all regional heads in Jakarta to discuss the 'Indonesia ASRI' programme, which focuses on security, health, cleanliness, and beauty. He emphasised the programme's importance for national advancement, linking it to industrial downstreaming, food self-sufficiency, and energy security. The initiative also includes ambitious environmental targets, such as resolving the nation's waste problem by the end of 2027.

Ombudsman Warns of Maladministration in Central Java After Four Regents Caught in KPK Cases

The Indonesian Ombudsman has highlighted systemic maladministration in Central Java following the arrest of four regents by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). The Ombudsman plans to conduct a comprehensive assessment of public service delivery across all regional governments in August 2026. The agency views maladministration as the upstream cause of corruption and aims to provide early warnings to prevent further legal issues among regional heads.

Mark Zuckerberg Predicts Billions Will Have Personal AI Agents

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg forecasts that billions of people will possess personal artificial intelligence agents within five years, handling tasks from finances to household management. The prediction came as Meta reported a 91 per cent year-on-year drop in free cash flow, partly due to heavy AI infrastructure investment. The company is betting these agents will underpin its next wave of products and revenue, despite ongoing losses in its Reality Labs division.

East Jakarta City Government Strengthens Waste Processing with Jumbo Biopores

The East Jakarta City Government is intensifying waste processing at the source by constructing jumbo biopores in residential areas. This initiative aligns with a gubernatorial instruction mandating waste separation, aiming to reduce the volume sent to the Bantargebang landfill. Residents are required to sort their household waste, with organic kitchen scraps being processed into compost through these large absorption holes.

State Savings Shrink by Rp19.2 Trillion in 2025, Where Did the Money Go?

Indonesia's state savings, known as the Excess Budget Balance (SAL), contracted by Rp19.2 trillion in 2025, according to an audited government financial report. The decline was primarily driven by a significant increase in the use of SAL funds to cover a widening budget deficit, with withdrawals surging 65.2% to Rp93.15 trillion. A substantial portion of the remaining cash balance was also shifted into placements with commercial banks, rather than being entirely spent.

Social Affairs Ministry outlines 9 concession rights for persons with disabilities under PP 31/2026

The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs has detailed nine strategic sectors where persons with disabilities are entitled to a minimum 20 per cent price reduction under Government Regulation No. 31/2026. The regulation, which took a decade of advocacy to realise, also provides incentives for private companies and state-owned enterprises that employ disabled individuals or offer inclusive facilities. The government aims to issue Disability Cards to all 15 million registered persons with disabilities by next year to facilitate access to these concessions.

PU Minister Targets Two National Bridges in Bireuen to be Functional by August

Minister of Public Works Dody Hanggodo has set a target for the permanent construction of the Krueng Tingkeum and Teupin Mane bridges in Bireuen Regency, Aceh, to be functional by the end of August 2026. The bridges are located on the strategic national route connecting Medan and Aceh and are considered vital for restoring logistics distribution and accelerating post-disaster economic recovery. The Ministry is accelerating work on the projects, with the Krueng Tingkeum bridge duplication already reaching 74.46 percent physical progress.

Drought in West Java Spreads to 17 Regions, Majalengka Declares Emergency Alert

The drought crisis in West Java has expanded to 17 regencies and cities, affecting over 200,000 residents. Majalengka Regency has officially declared a drought emergency status as clean water shortages worsen, particularly in the Kadipaten district. Authorities are intensifying water distribution and fire prevention efforts as the dry season persists.

First Sulinggih Cremation at Ujung Mantri Crematorium Fulfils Holy Man's Final Wish

The first cremation of a Balinese high priest, or sulinggih, was held at the Tyaga Margananda Crematorium in Karangasem, fulfilling the late Ida Pandita Mpu Acharya Nanda's final wishes. The ceremony, which began on 26 July 2026, marks a historic moment for the facility that only began operating in September 2025. Family and crematorium management emphasised that the modern process did not diminish the sacredness of the traditional yadnya rituals.

Japan envoy says trust is ASEAN partnership's greatest asset

Japan's ambassador to ASEAN has highlighted that the trust built over decades is the most significant achievement of the partnership, rooted in a 'heart-to-heart' philosophy established in 1977. The relationship has been tested and strengthened through shared crises, including the Asian financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. The partnership has now evolved into a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, underpinned by concrete cooperation and mutual respect.

AGO's Team 9 Examines 11 Witnesses in Febrie Adriansyah Money Laundering Case, 3 Absent

The Attorney General's Office's Team 9 examined eight witnesses and scheduled three others for re-summoning in the money laundering case against former senior prosecutor Febrie Adriansyah. The investigation is linked to the discovery of 74 kilograms of gold and IDR 543 billion in cash at his Sentul residence. Adriansyah is also a suspect in separate corruption cases involving Krakatau Steel, a PLN coal procurement blackout, and PT ASABRI.

Indonesia prioritizes occupancy over new industrial estates

Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita is shifting Indonesia's industrial strategy from expanding the number of estates to maximising occupancy and investment in existing ones. He stressed that managers must evolve into comprehensive ecosystems offering licensing support, supply chain integration, and green energy to boost competitiveness. The manufacturing sector remains a key economic driver, contributing 19.07 percent to GDP and employing over 20 million people.

DKI Jakarta strengthens cultural cooperation with agglomeration areas

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government has formalised a cultural partnership with surrounding buffer zones through the 'Jabodetabek Connected 2026' agreement. The initiative aims to preserve Betawi culture, facilitate inter-regional cultural exchange, and prepare joint programmes ahead of Jakarta's 500th anniversary in 2027. Officials emphasised that Betawi cultural identity extends beyond administrative borders, necessitating collaborative, concrete action plans.

Prabowo Studies India's Success in Building 40 Million Homes to Tackle Indonesia's Housing Backlog

President Prabowo Subianto is studying India's achievement of building 40 million homes over 12 years as a model to address Indonesia's housing deficit. He emphasised the need for courage, innovation, and learning from other nations to meet the national backlog of 9.9 million units.

Agriculture Minister Furious as Rice Millers Defraud Public, 36 Named Suspects

Indonesia's Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has expressed outrage over large-scale rice milling operations that are defrauding the public, with some reportedly earning up to IDR 2 trillion per month. A government study has revealed widespread quality violations and market manipulation, leading to 36 suspects being named in criminal cases. The government is now pushing for supply chain reforms, including direct farmer-to-consumer sales through village cooperatives, to curb the practices President Prabowo Subianto has labelled 'serakahnomics'.

Prabowo Inaugurates Revitalised Semarang Tawang Station, Emphasises Historical Legacy

President Prabowo Subianto officially inaugurated the revitalised Semarang Tawang Station, a heritage building originally constructed in 1911. The project, completed over 330 days, focused on restoring the station's colonial-era architecture while upgrading passenger facilities. Prabowo highlighted the importance of preserving historical identity and stated that modernising the railway network is crucial for serving the public and boosting economic mobility.

South Kalimantan tax revenue reaches Rp6.24 trillion in first half of 2026

Tax revenue in South Kalimantan reached Rp6.24 trillion in the first half of 2026, driven by strong growth in the mining and industrial sectors. The figure represents 36.09 per cent growth compared to the same period last year, outpacing the broader regional performance. A significant surge in Land and Building Tax receipts and a contraction in other taxes due to new administrative policies were also recorded.

Staple Food Prices in Sleman Remain Stable During El Niño

The Sleman Regency Industry and Trade Office has confirmed that the supply and prices of staple foods remain secure and under control despite national supply dynamics and global price fluctuations. Officials are using the SIHARPA digital system for real-time price monitoring across eight traditional markets. The local government is also conducting market operations and collaborating with the Food Task Force to prevent hoarding and maintain affordability.

PWI Regrets Deddy PDIP's 'Like a Circus' Remark: In Any Context, It Is Inappropriate

The Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) has expressed regret over a remark by House of Representatives member Deddy Sitorus, who described a parliamentary meeting as 'like a circus'. The PWI deemed the diction inappropriate for a public official, as it could be interpreted as demeaning the journalistic profession. Deddy Sitorus has since clarified that his comment was directed at the crowded room conditions and not at the journalists present.

KPK Chief to Tighten Data Security System After Staff Member Named Suspect

The chairman of Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), Setyo Budiyanto, has announced plans to tighten the agency's data security systems following the arrest of one of its administrative staff for leaking information. The staff member is accused of passing confidential data to his father, who then used it to extort the Regent of Pemalang. The KPK will now restrict document access and implement access logs to prevent future breaches.

Pegadaian Receives 2026-2028 Collective Labour Agreement Decree, Strengthening Employment Legal Certainty

PT Pegadaian has received the 2026-2028 Collective Labour Agreement (PKB) decree from the Ministry of Manpower, formalising a new three-year employment framework. The agreement, signed in the presence of Minister Yassierli, aims to ensure legal certainty, foster harmonious industrial relations, and boost corporate productivity. Pegadaian's CEO emphasised the PKB as a symbol of strategic partnership and mutual trust between management and the workers' union.

KPK Issues 72 Investigation Warrants in First Half of 2026

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has significantly intensified its enforcement actions, issuing 72 investigation warrants in the first half of 2026. The agency reports a sharp increase in sting operations, particularly targeting regional heads, and has transferred 76 cases to court, a substantial rise from the 46 cases prosecuted in the same period last year. KPK leadership emphasised that the crackdown is a response to high public expectations for effective law enforcement.

Indonesia urges industrial estates to boost competitiveness

Indonesia's government has called on industrial estate managers to evolve beyond basic land and utility provision into dynamic ecosystems that attract global manufacturers. With international investors comparing specific Indonesian estates directly against rivals in Vietnam and elsewhere, the speed of licensing, infrastructure quality, and renewable energy supply are seen as critical factors. The push aims to capitalise on supply chain shifts and position the country as a leading manufacturing base.

House Member Proposes Regional Elections for Governor Only, Without Deputy

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) has proposed that future regional head elections (Pilkada) should only elect the governor, regent, or mayor, with the deputy being appointed directly by the elected leader. The proposal aims to resolve systemic disharmony between regional heads and their deputies, who are often sidelined to merely performing delegated tasks.

AMKEI calls for calm after fatal clash in Menteng

The central board of the Angkatan Muda Kei Indonesia (AMKEI) has urged restraint among its members and the Eastern Indonesian community following a deadly brawl in Central Jakarta. The organisation expressed condolences to the victim's family and pledged full cooperation with the police investigation. Jakarta police have named seven suspects in connection with the incident, which involved the destruction of a vendor's cart and a fatal assault.

West Java DPRD Member Criticises Governor Dedi Mulyadi Over 'Begal' Bounty and Social Media Governance

West Java DPRD member Rafael Situmorang has criticised Governor Dedi Mulyadi, arguing that offering a bounty for the capture of street criminals falls outside the duties of a regional head. Situmorang suggested the Governor should focus on managing the state budget to create jobs and improve education, rather than producing social media content that distorts public perception of real issues such as drought and pollution.

DBS Insights Forum Reveals Investment Opportunities Amid Global Rivalry

The DBS Insights Forum 2026 highlighted that while Indonesia's geopolitical position remains relatively safe, the government must better articulate its stability to attract investors. Experts also pointed to higher-for-longer interest rates, the transformative impact of AI, and Asia's long-term promise as key factors shaping investment strategies.

Surabaya Strengthens Policies to Realise Child-Friendly and Family-Oriented City

The Indonesian central government has praised the Surabaya city administration for its successful efforts in building a child-friendly ecosystem through cross-sector collaboration and family strengthening programmes. The city has maintained the 'Utama' (Main) category of the Child-Friendly City award for seven consecutive years. Surabaya's leadership reaffirmed its commitment to expanding child-focused policies, including parenting education and legal protection, as part of its transformation into a sustainable world city.

Indonesia boosts cloud seeding to counter drought and wildfires

Indonesia is intensifying weather modification operations, including cloud seeding, to mitigate forest and land fires and maintain water supplies during the 2026 dry season. The operations, led by the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) in collaboration with the military and other ministries, are targeting areas such as Pekanbaru, Palangkaraya, and strategic reservoirs in West Java. The government is also coordinating with multiple agencies to address the socio-economic impacts of the ongoing El Niño phenomenon.

Minister Yusril and Deputy Police Chief Call for Stronger Laws to Protect Women and Children from Human Trafficking

Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra and Deputy Police Chief Komjen Dedi Prasetyo have urged for a more integrated legal system to combat human trafficking, moving beyond just criminal sanctions. Speaking at an international conference in Semarang, they emphasised the need for enhanced prevention, victim protection, and cross-border cooperation. The police outlined a four-pronged strategy including a victim-centric approach and the strengthening of specialist units to tackle the increasingly digital nature of the crime.

Police Seek Court Permission to Seize Lebak Council Chair's Phone in Activist Assault Case

Banten Regional Police have requested court approval to seize the mobile phone of Lebak DPRD Chair Juwita Wulandari as part of an investigation into the alleged kidnapping and assault of activist Fam Fuk Thjong. Juwita refused to hand over the device without a warrant, while police suspect it contains communications with four men already named as suspects. The council chair has denied any involvement, stating she never instructed anyone to commit violence.

Suhud Urges DPR and DPD Synergy to Strengthen Revenue Sharing Funds for Jakarta

Jakarta DPRD Chairman Suhud Alynudin has called for stronger collaboration between the national and regional legislatures to secure an increase in Revenue Sharing Funds (DBH) for the capital. He argued that robust fiscal support is crucial for Jakarta to sustain its development and improve public services. The appeal was made during a gathering attended by the Governor of Jakarta and members of the national parliament and regional representative council.

Challenges Facing Indonesia's Industrial Estates

Indonesia's industrial estates are grappling with occupancy challenges and competitiveness issues compared to regional neighbours, with lengthy bureaucracy cited as a key obstacle. The government and parliament are discussing an Industrial Estates Bill aimed at streamlining processes and accelerating investment realisation, with hopes for its ratification within two to three quarters. The bill seeks to ensure industrial estates offer more than just land, focusing on a swift process for investors.

Pertamina Patra Niaga presents integrated energy ecosystem at GIIAS

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga is showcasing its integrated digital energy ecosystem at the 2026 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) in Tangerang. The state-owned enterprise is promoting its MyPertamina app, which now serves 31 million users, alongside its range of quality fuels and sustainable energy innovations. The exhibition also serves as a prelude to the Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia 2026, with MotoGP ticket sales and merchandise available through the app.

Concrete Sidewalk Worth Rp10 Billion in Depok Collapses into Canal, Pedestrians at Risk

A newly built concrete sidewalk in Depok, West Java, valued at Rp10 billion, has partially collapsed into a canal just one year after construction. Local residents are now forced to walk on the main road, raising safety concerns and allegations of substandard materials and potential corruption. The Public Works and Spatial Planning Agency has yet to initiate official repairs.

Cilacap Water Crisis Spreads to 22 Villages, 20,000 Affected by El Niño

The clean water crisis in Cilacap, Central Java, has expanded to 22 villages across 12 sub-districts, affecting over 20,000 residents. Authorities have distributed 753,000 litres of water through government funds and corporate social responsibility programmes. The prolonged dry season, exacerbated by El Niño, has forced communities to rely entirely on emergency water supplies.

DPR Member Highlights Tabanan Mob Killing, Tito Asks: Which Party Does the Regional Head Belong To?

A House of Representatives (DPR) member has raised the case of a man beaten to death by a mob in Tabanan, Bali, after allegedly stealing a chicken, calling it a failure of the state to protect its citizens. The lawmaker urged the Home Affairs Minister to establish standard operating procedures with regional heads to prevent such vigilante violence. In response, the minister acknowledged the case and pointedly asked which political party the Tabanan regent belonged to, prompting a clarification that the regent, a PDIP cadre, had already provided compensation to the victim's family.

Rupiah weakens as high oil prices persist

The Indonesian rupiah depreciated against the US dollar on Thursday, influenced by persistently high global oil prices and a strengthening dollar index. Analysts warn that oil prices remaining well above state budget assumptions could pressure the fiscal and trade deficits. The hawkish tone from the latest Federal Reserve meeting also contributed to the currency's weakness.

60 SRMA 1 Students to Study at SRT 3 Aceh Province for a Year

Sixty new students from Sekolah Rakyat Menengah Atas (SRMA) 1 Aceh Besar will spend their first academic year studying and boarding at Sekolah Rakyat Terintegrasi 3 in Aceh Province. The temporary arrangement is in place while a permanent school building is constructed in Jantho, with the headmaster assuring parents that the students will receive equal treatment and facilities. The Sekolah Rakyat programme specifically targets children from the lowest two economic deciles as identified in the National Single Socio-Economic Data registry.

Jakarta Watersport Festival 2026 to Boost Sports Tourism and Creative Economy at Lake Sunter

The Jakarta provincial government is set to host the Watersport Festival 2026 at Lake Sunter, aiming to position the city as a global sports tourism destination. The event, organised by the tourism and creative economy agency, will combine water sports competitions with entertainment and a marketplace for local creative products. Officials expect the festival to attract tourists, extend their length of stay, and stimulate economic benefits for local businesses.

Carbon Trading Volume Remains Low, Government Deploys These Strategies

Indonesia's carbon trading market is experiencing low transaction volumes despite adequate infrastructure and regulations. The government is focusing on expanding project pipelines, including carbon capture, biodiesel, and solar power, to boost supply. Strengthening market mechanisms through voluntary carbon markets and the Paris Agreement's Article 6 is also planned to increase demand and liquidity.

MG Showcases New Hybrid Technology in ZS Hybrid+, Priced from Rp299.9 Million

MG Motor Indonesia has introduced its latest Hybrid+ technology in the ZS Hybrid+ SUV, claiming it overcomes common hybrid drawbacks by combining fuel efficiency with strong performance and low noise levels. The vehicle, which features 15 ADAS functions and a five-star ANCAP safety rating, is being offered at a special launch price starting from Rp299.9 million for the first 1,000 buyers at GIIAS 2026.

Prabowo Tells TNI Top Brass: Don't Be 'Salon Generals', Get Your Boots Dirty

President Prabowo Subianto has urged senior Indonesian military officers to avoid becoming 'salon generals' who are reluctant to leave their offices, insisting they must go into the field even if it means getting their uniforms dirty. Speaking at an event in Batang, Central Java, he also called on regional leaders and security forces to routinely inspect local environments. The President stressed that good leadership requires direct engagement with conditions on the ground.

From Gibraltar to the Arctic

The Arctic is emerging as a strategically vital region that will fundamentally reshape Asian supply chains and energy security, with China poised to be the primary beneficiary. Europe risks a strategic mistake by neglecting Arctic governance, as the structural transformations driven by climate change and technological progress continue regardless of short-term geopolitical tensions. The article argues that institutional and regulatory frameworks for the Arctic must be developed now, before commercial patterns solidify, rather than waiting for political conditions to improve.

El Niño Impact: Fearing Dengue Fever, Tasikmalaya Residents Stock Up on Mosquito Repellent

A prolonged dry season linked to El Niño has triggered a surge in mosquito populations in Tasikmalaya, West Java, prompting residents to purchase large quantities of repellent. Local authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant against dengue fever by intensifying the 3M eradication programme. The deputy mayor attributed the pest explosion to increasingly hot weather caused by extreme climate conditions.

1,016 South Jakarta Firefighters Receive Free Accident Insurance

A total of 1,016 firefighters in South Jakarta have been granted free personal accident insurance for one month, covering death benefits up to Rp25 million and hospitalisation costs up to Rp2.5 million. The programme, provided by Asuransi Jagadiri, aims to offer basic protection for frontline workers facing high occupational risks, including toxic smoke, building collapses, and electrocution. The initiative also includes financial literacy education, referencing the Financial Services Authority's (OJK) regulation on financial inclusion.

Disaster Strikes Indonesia: Forest Fires and Drought Spread Across Regions

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has reported a surge in forest and land fires alongside widespread drought across multiple Indonesian provinces. Fires have scorched dozens of hectares in West Java, Aceh, and Southwest Papua, while drought conditions are forcing authorities to distribute clean water to affected communities. The agency is urging heightened vigilance and water conservation as the dry season intensifies.

Minister Exposes Rice Mill Fraud Costing Trillions, 36 Named Suspects

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has revealed widespread fraud in the rice milling industry, with one large-scale mill allegedly making Rp 2 trillion per month in illicit profits. A national investigation, named 'Darurat Mafia Beras' (Rice Mafia Emergency), has led to 36 suspects being charged, while data shows 39.75% of premium rice violates quality standards. The government is pushing to dismantle exploitative supply chains that disadvantage farmers and is promoting village-level cooperatives as a long-term solution.

BPJS Kesehatan's Mobile Service Brings Swift Solutions to Makassar Neighbourhoods

BPJS Kesehatan's Mobile Customer Service (MCS) is transforming access to national health insurance administration in Makassar, South Sulawesi. The roving service visits sub-district offices, health centres, and public spaces weekly, allowing residents to register, update data, and resolve queries without travelling to distant branch offices. Officials say the initiative is a commitment to proactive outreach, ensuring no citizen is hindered by distance or time in managing their JKN membership.

Police Raid Five Offices in Gowa Over IDR 16 Billion Uniform Corruption Case

South Sulawesi Police have raided five government offices in Gowa Regency, including the Education Department, as part of an investigation into alleged corruption involving a IDR 16 billion free school uniform procurement. The operation sought documents and evidence related to the project, which was intended to supply 20,000 uniform packages for primary and secondary students. A key figure, political consultant Muhammad Basri, has twice failed to comply with police summonses, prompting threats of compulsory measures.

Increased Regional Transfers Deemed Effective to Strengthen Local Fiscal Capacity

An economist has welcomed the government's plan to increase regional transfer funds (TKD) as an effective short-term measure to support local government budgets. However, he stressed the need for a more sustainable increase in TKD and a fairer revenue-sharing formula between central and local governments. The plan awaits President Prabowo Subianto's approval.

Bandung Police Raid House Storing 784,500 Illicit Prescription Pills

The Bandung Police narcotics unit uncovered a major cache of 784,500 illegal prescription pills in a house in Cicalengka, Bandung Regency. A suspect from Aceh, identified as RJ, was arrested for allegedly using the property as a storage and distribution hub. Authorities believe the drugs were distributed covertly via courier services to evade law enforcement.

Government to Comply with Constitutional Court Ruling Separating Education and Free Nutritious Meal Budgets

The Indonesian government has confirmed it will comply with the Constitutional Court's ruling to separate the budget for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme from the national education budget. Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra stated the government and parliament have no choice but to obey the final and binding decision. The separation will be implemented by the 2028 state budget at the latest, as discussions for the 2027 budget are already underway.

Former Director of PT DSI Claims No Responsibility for Operations in Legal Exception

Mery Yuniarni, a former director of PT Dana Syariah Indonesia (DSI), has filed an exception in court, arguing she should not be held liable for the company's operations after her resignation. She claims that all fundraising and lending activities, which are central to the case, occurred after she left the company. Mery is urging the court to examine company documents to establish the timeline of events and identify the parties in control during the period in question.

The Congress of Muslims and the Future of the Nation's Civilisation

The article reflects on the outcomes of the 8th Indonesian Muslim Congress (KUII VIII), emphasising that the nation's future depends not only on economic and technological progress but also on moral strength. It argues that the congress's theme of unity is a call to address deep-seated issues like corruption, inequality, and the erosion of public trust. The author highlights the need for moral force and ethical statecraft to guide the nation beyond short-term political and economic interests.

Marselino, Ragnar, and Justin to Miss Indonesia's Match Against Timor Leste

Three Indonesian national team players will be absent for the ASEAN Hyundai Cup group match against Timor Leste in Thailand. Marselino Ferdinan and Ragnar Oratmangoen were not included in the travelling squad, while Justin Hubner has yet to join the team. PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir expressed hope for the players' recovery and noted the possibility of Justin joining later remains open.

Indonesian Citizens Flock to US Dollar Savings, Foreign Currency Deposits Surge 185%

The number of US dollar savings accounts in Indonesia has skyrocketed by 185.5% year-on-year as of June 2026, according to the Indonesia Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS). This surge, driven by retail customers seeking a hedge against the weakening rupiah, has pushed the nominal value of foreign currency savings up by 19.5% to Rp1,741.46 trillion. Experts note that while transaction volumes remain steady, individuals are increasingly converting rupiah holdings into dollars to protect their wealth.

Bank Ina Partners with Minimarkets, Adds Outlets to Boost Digital Transactions

Bank Ina is expanding its digital footprint by partnering with minimarket chains and increasing its physical presence. The move aims to capitalise on Indonesia's rapidly growing digital payment landscape, where QRIS transactions have more than doubled. The bank's own digital platform, Binadigital, has also seen transaction growth exceeding 100%.

Prabowo Plans Cleanest City Competition with Rp20 Billion Prize

President Prabowo Subianto has announced a competition to find Indonesia's cleanest cities, offering a total prize of Rp20 billion for the top five municipalities. The initiative aims to incentivise local governments to improve environmental cleanliness and waste management through substantial financial rewards rather than symbolic trophies. He also urged regional leaders and security forces to actively monitor and enforce cleanliness standards within their communities.

RANS Yet to Appoint Replacement for Resigning Director

PT Rans Entertainmen Indonesia Tbk (RANS) has confirmed the resignation of director Grandy Prajayakti was due to personal reasons and not linked to any internal dispute. The company stated the resignation, submitted shortly after its IPO, was not anticipated during the public offering process. RANS currently has no immediate plans to appoint a replacement, as the remaining board still meets the legal minimum requirements for a publicly listed company.

PU Ministry Tests Pante Lhong Irrigation in Aceh to Irrigate 6,562 Hectares of Rice Fields

Minister of Public Works Dody Hanggodo conducted a trial of the newly repaired Pante Lhong irrigation system in Bireuen, Aceh, which is designed to irrigate 6,562 hectares of rice fields across eight sub-districts. The test marks a significant step in restoring the system's function after it was damaged by flooding. The government aims to optimise water distribution to boost agricultural production and support national food self-sufficiency.

Jakarta Government Outlines Four Steps for Quality Content Creation

The DKI Jakarta Communication, Informatics, and Statistics Office has outlined four key steps for content creators to produce high-quality material, emphasising fact-checking and positive impact over virality. The advice was given during a content creator bootcamp, highlighting the importance of digital ethics and credible sourcing. With internet users in Indonesia reaching 235.2 million, officials stressed the vast reach and responsibility of digital content.

Viral Video Shows Helicopter Downwash Damaging Market Stalls in West Bandung

A helicopter landing at the Cisarua State Police School in West Bandung caused damage to several semi-permanent market stalls at Pasar Barukai. The strong downwash from the rotor blades tore off roofing and scattered debris, though no casualties were reported. The local market authority confirmed six stalls were affected and noted the main market building remained intact.

Prabowo Targets End of Landfill Mountains by 2027

President Prabowo Subianto has announced plans to resolve Indonesia's waste problems by the end of 2027, aiming to eliminate all landfill mountains. He intends to convene a special meeting with governors and regents to discuss the ASRI (Safe, Healthy, Clean, and Beautiful) programme. The president emphasised that environmental cleanliness is crucial for national transformation, food and energy security, and boosting tourism competitiveness.

Iran Strikes Kuwait, Damaging Chinese Company Building and Killing One Worker

An Iranian missile attack targeted a building owned by a Chinese company in northern Kuwait, resulting in the death of one worker and significant structural damage. The Kuwaiti Ministry of Defence condemned the 'vicious aggression' and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting national sovereignty. The incident is part of a broader escalation, following US airstrikes on Iran that reportedly killed a family of three on Qeshm Island.

Fire at Dengung Landfill in Lebak Burns 1,000 Square Metres

A fire broke out at the Dengung landfill in Lebak, Banten, scorching approximately 1,000 square metres of a non-active waste zone. Firefighters and landfill personnel managed to extinguish the blaze within four hours, preventing it from spreading to the active zones of the 13-hectare site. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire and have urged increased vigilance during the current dry season.

NTB Deputy High Prosecutor and Three District Prosecutors Transferred

The Attorney General's Office has rotated several officials in Nusa Tenggara Barat (NTB), including the Deputy High Prosecutor and three District Prosecutors. Waito Wongateleng, the NTB Deputy High Prosecutor, has been transferred to Central Java, with Dandeni Herdiana named as his replacement. The transfers were formalised in a decree dated 29 July 2026.

Police Officer at KPK and His Father Allegedly Extorted Pemalang Regent

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested four individuals, including a police officer assigned to the anti-graft body and his father, for allegedly extorting the Regent of Pemalang. The father, Lilik Budi Suprianto, reportedly used his son's position at the KPK to gain the regent's trust and solicit bribes. The suspects are currently detained for an initial 20-day period while investigations continue.

House Commission II Proposes Performance-Based Pay for Regional Heads to Curb Corruption

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission II has proposed a revision to government regulations to link the remuneration of regional heads to their performance. The initiative aims to provide fairer, more proportional compensation while minimising the potential for corruption. The proposal comes as the existing regulations, dating back to 2000, are deemed outdated and no longer reflective of current responsibilities.

Indonesia's Eucalyptus Oil Production Continues to Decline, Here's Why

Indonesia's national eucalyptus oil output has fallen sharply, dropping 34.5% to 41,990.93 tonnes in 2023 from 64,133.04 tonnes the previous year. The decline is attributed to unpredictable climate conditions, ageing plantations, and outdated distillation technology. The trend threatens domestic supply for the pharmaceutical and household care industries, prompting calls for crop rejuvenation and modernisation.

Prabowo plans cleanest city competition with Rp20 billion prize

President Prabowo Subianto has announced a competition to find Indonesia's cleanest cities, offering a Rp20 billion incentive for the top five municipalities. The initiative aims to motivate regional governments to improve environmental cleanliness and waste management through substantial financial rewards rather than symbolic trophies. Prabowo also urged all levels of government and the public to actively monitor and enforce cleanliness standards, framing the issue as a matter of national dignity.

Legislator proposes electing regional heads without deputies to tackle 'vote getter' issue

An Indonesian legislator has proposed amending regional election laws so that deputy regional heads are appointed rather than elected, aiming to prevent them from being used merely as 'vote getters'. The proposal comes amid reports that nearly 60 percent of regional leadership pairs experience disharmony, often leaving deputies without meaningful roles. The suggestion was made during a House of Representatives commission meeting with the Ministry of Home Affairs.

President Prabowo Warns TNI Officers Not to Become 'Salon Generals'

President Prabowo Subianto has urged high-ranking TNI officers to avoid becoming 'salon generals' who are reluctant to leave their offices. He stressed the importance of field leadership, instructing military and regional leaders to spend time daily monitoring environmental cleanliness. The President also called for firm action against businesses and individuals who neglect their surroundings.

Prabowo: No Need to Mobilise the Public to Welcome Me, Just Relax

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed regional heads not to mobilise residents to welcome him during working visits, stating that the public's comfort is more important than ceremonial greetings. He made the remarks while symbolically inaugurating a mass housing contract event in Batang, Central Java. The President emphasised that the government is working earnestly for the people's prosperity.

Six-Storey Building in Gambir Sealed for Fifth Time Over Permit Violation

A six-storey building in Gambir, Central Jakarta, has been sealed by authorities for the fifth time after repeatedly violating its building permit. The structure was only authorised for four storeys but was built with six plus a rooftop, and construction activity continued despite previous sanctions. Officials warned that any further breach of the seal could result in criminal charges.

PT Vale Indonesia Posts Strong Performance Amid Major Transformation

PT Vale Indonesia reported a 19% surge in nickel matte production for the second quarter of 2026, driving a 15% increase in revenue to US$290 million and a 39% jump in net profit. The company's performance was bolstered by the completion of its Furnace 3 rebuild and strategic growth projects, including the arrival of a key autoclave for its HPAL plant in Morowali. The results underscore Vale's pivotal role in Indonesia's downstream mineral processing agenda.

DPR Pushes for TPPO Law Revision to Combat Modern Slavery

The House of Representatives (DPR) is urging a revision of Indonesia's anti-trafficking law to address increasingly complex forms of modern slavery and online exploitation. Deputy Chairman of Commission XIII, Rinto Subekti, stated that regulatory adjustments are necessary to respond to new modes of human exploitation. He also called for the appointment of a clear leading sector by the President to improve inter-ministerial coordination in handling these cases.

US Bans Import of Advanced Chinese Robots, Escalating Tech War

The United States has officially banned the import of Chinese-made humanoid and quadrupedal robots, citing national security and cyber-espionage risks. The move intensifies the technology rivalry between the two nations, as China currently dominates global production of these advanced machines. While the ban aims to protect critical US infrastructure, analysts suggest it may primarily benefit American robotics firms and push Chinese manufacturers towards European and other markets.

Jakarta allocates Rp166 billion for 2028 PON venue revitalisation

The Jakarta provincial government has earmarked Rp166 billion in its 2027 budget to refurbish sports venues as it prepares to serve as a supporting city for the 2028 National Games (PON) in NTB/NTT. The city will host 17 sports, including aquatics, fencing, and cycling, leveraging existing international-standard facilities. Officials also plan to involve local MSMEs to ensure the multi-sport event delivers an economic boost to the community.

Pramono Reveals Why SDN 01 Cipete Construction Remains Unfinished

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has attributed the stalled construction of SDN 01 Cipete Utara to a mid-project change in concept from a four-storey school to a 20-storey mixed-use building. The project, initially slated for completion within six months, has been ongoing for nearly a year and is now targeted for September 2026. Pramono has instructed the Education Agency to prioritise finishing the school section so that it can be used immediately.

Pretrial Motion of Lodewyk Pusung Rejected, Corruption Suspect Status in Free Nutritious Meals Programme Stands

The South Jakarta District Court has rejected the pretrial motion filed by former Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Lodewyk Pusung, challenging his suspect status in the alleged corruption of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The judge ruled the court lacked the authority to hear the petition. Consequently, the investigation by the Attorney General's Office will proceed, with an audit reportedly uncovering annual budgetary waste amounting to Rp10.5 trillion.

Palembang City Government Optimises Climate Village Programme

The Palembang city administration is intensifying its community-based Climate Village Programme (Proklim) to bolster climate change adaptation and mitigation. With 143 locations established since 2015, the government aims to have at least one Proklim in every urban ward while addressing declining activity in some existing sites. Strategies include expanding the programme and improving village status through water conservation, tree planting, and waste management, alongside integrating biopore absorption holes into commercial building permits.

Java Predicted to Enter Rainy Season in November

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) forecasts that Java will begin its rainy season in November 2026, though initial rainfall is expected to remain below normal levels. The agency also clarified that the ongoing El Niño phenomenon will persist into early 2027, but its impact on Indonesia is expected to diminish by mid-October.

Indonesia's Creative Economy Continues Driving Growth, Investment Reaches 134% of Target

Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya announced that Indonesia's creative economy sector achieved 134% of its investment target in 2025, reflecting growing international confidence. The government is focusing on regional-based development and downstream processing to boost competitiveness, supported by a new long-term master plan spanning 2026 to 2045. Indonesia will also host the World Conference on Creative Economy in Jakarta this October to further cement its global strategic role in the sector.

Eddy Soeparno: Energy Security Urgency on Par with National Security

MPR Deputy Speaker Eddy Soeparno has asserted that energy security is as critical as national security, warning that failure to guarantee energy supply risks economic stability and national sovereignty. He made the remarks during a high-level dialogue with Gadjah Mada University academics, gathering strategic input on accelerating the energy transition and decarbonisation. Soeparno stressed the need for evidence-based policy, regulatory reform, and collaboration between government, academia, and business to position Indonesia as a global clean energy powerhouse.

Indonesia Still Unable to Extract Rare Earth Metals, Here's Why

Indonesia currently lacks the advanced technology and laboratory capacity to extract rare earth metals, which are often found as trace minerals alongside major commodities like nickel and bauxite. Industry leaders argue that while the potential is significant, commercial extraction remains a distant goal requiring gradual development and global partnerships. They also criticise recent export disruptions, calling for clear regulations that distinguish rare earth elements from primary mineral products.

Malaysia uses Malinau as a reference for hinterland development

The government of Malinau Regency in North Kalimantan has stated that its hinterland development has been deemed successful by Malaysia's Sabah state. A delegation from Sabah's Institute for Development Studies visited Malinau to study its strategies as a reference for developing the Kalabakan region over the next decade. The visit highlights cross-border cooperation and the recognition of Malinau's progress since its formation in 1999.

Depraved: Father in Samarinda Sexually Assaults Biological Daughter, Victim Traumatised

A father in Samarinda, East Kalimantan, has been accused of repeatedly sexually assaulting his biological daughter over a period of six years, starting when she was just eight years old. The abuse came to light after the victim, now 14, confided in her aunt, leading the family to report the case to the East Kalimantan Women and Children Protection Rapid Response Team. The suspect has reportedly confessed to the crimes and the case is now under police investigation, with the victim receiving trauma counselling and legal support.

Malinau Government Subsidises Air Evacuation for Emergency Patients in Border Areas

The Malinau Regency Government in North Kalimantan is providing air evacuation subsidies for emergency patients in remote and border areas, ensuring access to hospital care despite challenging geography. The policy addresses the prohibitive cost of medical flights, which can reach tens of millions of rupiah and are not covered by national health insurance. Funding is allocated through the regional Unexpected Expenditure budget, which reached Rp3.16 billion in 2024, to guarantee timely treatment when land and river transport are not viable.

Berau Government Partners with TRH to Build SDN Filial, Educating Children in Remote Areas

The Berau Regency Government is collaborating with PT TRH to construct a new primary school building in the remote Kampung Birang. The project aims to provide equal educational rights for children in the area, where previous construction plans were hampered by forestry regulations. The private company has committed to building seven classrooms and a teachers' room to create a more effective learning environment.

Prabowo Trials New Nusantara Explorer Luxury Train

President Prabowo Subianto has trialled the new Nusantara Explorer, a luxury sleeper train service launched by PT KAI. The trial run followed the inauguration of the restored Tawang Station in Semarang. The premium service aims to boost tourism and offers three classes of sleeping cabins, a grand restaurant, and a lounge.

Undana Student Allegedly Depressed After Being Asked to Change Thesis Examiner Hours Before Exam

A public health student at Nusa Cendana University (Undana) in Kupang reportedly suffered a mental breakdown after a lecturer asked her to change her thesis examiner just before her scheduled exam. The incident went viral on social media, with claims the student had previously faced 12 cancellations from the same lecturer. The faculty dean confirmed the incident, stating the university is investigating and that the examiner in question was reportedly bereaved.

Government Strengthens Indonesia's Carbon Market Ecosystem

The Indonesian government is reinforcing its carbon market infrastructure following the issuance of Presidential Regulation No. 110 of 2025 on Carbon Economic Value. The regulation aims to refine the governance of carbon trading and supports the launch of the National Carbon Unit Registry System (SRUK). Officials state that these developments are designed to complement Indonesia's Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) targets and eventually connect domestic carbon transactions to international markets.

Deddy Sitorus Issues Six-Point Clarification Over 'Like a Circus' Remark in Parliament

House of Representatives member Deddy Yevri Sitorus has denied insulting journalists after his 'like a circus' comment during a commission meeting sparked outrage. He clarified that the remark was directed at the chaotic situation in the room, not the press, and emphasised his respect for journalistic work. The Parliament Press Corps had demanded a public apology within 24 hours, alleging the statement was demeaning.

President Prabowo Instructs TNI Commander to Check Pindad Excavators for Distribution to Regions

President Prabowo Subianto has ordered the Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI) Commander to inspect excavators produced by state-owned enterprise Pindad for distribution to regional governments. The initiative aims to support a national cleanliness campaign, with the President also instructing the Ministry of Agriculture to prepare tree nurseries for a massive reforestation effort. The environmental programme is targeted to resolve illegal waste dumping across Indonesia within one to two years.

Constitutional Court Orders 20 Percent of State Budget Allocated Purely for Education

The Constitutional Court has ruled that the government must allocate a minimum of 20 percent of the State Budget (APBN) exclusively for core educational components, excluding the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The court found that including the MBG budget within the education allocation created legal uncertainty and violated the constitutional mandate. The ruling requires the MBG programme to be funded separately in future state budgets.

Sumedang Regency to Block Social Media Accounts of Children Under 16

The Sumedang Regency government in West Java is moving to deactivate or block social media accounts belonging to children under the age of 16. The initiative, coordinated with the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs, aims to mitigate the negative impacts of unsupervised social media access on minors. Officials argue that children lack the maturity to filter harmful content, making this a necessary preventive measure to protect their development.

Prabowo Highlights Harmony Between Police and Attorney General's Office

President Prabowo Subianto has publicly underscored the importance of solidarity between the Indonesian National Police and the Attorney General's Office amidst recent public scrutiny. Speaking at a mass housing contract event in Batang, he light-heartedly noted the visible harmony between the two institutions' leaders. His remarks follow speculation about inter-agency relations after a case involving a former senior prosecutor.

BMKG Warns Bogor is Disaster-Prone, Notes Rising Trend in Seismic Activity

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned that Bogor and its surrounding areas are highly susceptible to earthquakes and landslides, citing a rising trend in seismic activity. The agency recorded 99 earthquakes in the region throughout 2025, with 10 felt by residents, and is conducting field schools to improve public preparedness. Historical data, including a destructive magnitude 7.0 earthquake in 1834, underscores the urgent need for community resilience and early warning systems.

Judge Rejects Pretrial Motion of Former Deputy Head of National Nutrition Agency

A South Jakarta District Court judge has rejected a pretrial motion filed by Lodewyk Pusung, a former deputy head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), challenging his corruption suspect status. The judge ruled the court lacked jurisdiction because the alleged procedural violations occurred outside South Jakarta. Pusung is one of seven suspects named by the Attorney General's Office in a graft case involving the free nutritious meal programme.

US Completes Major Strikes on Iran; Global Diplomatic Tensions Escalate

The United States military has concluded a significant wave of strikes against dozens of targets in Iran, described as a 'strong response' to prior Iranian missile attacks on US forces. The two-hour operation has drawn sharp condemnation from Tehran and coincided with heightened regional tensions, including Jordan intercepting Iranian missiles and high-level US-Israeli discussions on Iran's nuclear programme. Separately, a diplomatic row has erupted in New Zealand after the foreign minister told a Chinese-born MP to 'go back to your own country'.

Prabowo Urges Officials to Join 'Indonesia ASRI' Movement: Don't Be a 'Salon General'

President Prabowo Subianto has called on all government officials, including high-ranking military officers, to actively participate in the national 'Indonesia ASRI' movement. He warned against becoming 'salon generals' who remain pristine, insisting that leaders should get their hands dirty in community efforts. The initiative aims to foster a culture of cleanliness, health, and order across the country.

Content Creator Could Become Primary Income Source in Digital Era, Jakarta Official Says

Jakarta's Communication, Informatics, and Statistics Agency believes content creation offers significant economic opportunities and can become a primary income source. The agency emphasises that a creator's sustainability depends on the quality and usefulness of their message rather than just viral popularity. The remarks were made during a content creator bootcamp aimed at helping participants turn their skills into professional careers.

Ministry prepares strategy to combat algorithmic disinformation

Indonesia's Communication and Digital Affairs Ministry is developing a strategy to counter algorithmic disinformation, including intensified content moderation under the ITE Law. Deputy Minister Nezar Patria warned that social media algorithms create echo chambers and that AI-generated synthetic media poses a growing threat to public discourse. The government is promoting digital literacy and verification tools to help citizens distinguish genuine content from manipulated media.

Trade Ministry Targets Rp38 Trillion in Transactions for 2026 Indonesia Shopping Festival

The Ministry of Trade aims to generate Rp38 trillion in transactions during the 2026 Indonesia Shopping Festival (ISF), a significant increase from the previous year. The event, which supports economic growth through household consumption, will expand to 407 shopping centres nationwide and run for 17 days in August. Organisers also plan to attract international tourists, particularly from ASEAN and the Pacific, to boost retail activity.

Judicial Commission Records Surge in Ethical Violations by Judges: Over 100 Percent Increase from Last Year

Indonesia's Judicial Commission (KY) has reported a sharp increase in ethical violations by judges during the first half of 2026, with 121 judges found guilty compared to 49 in the same period last year. The sanctions range from written reprimands to dishonourable discharge, with nine judges recommended for dismissal. The most common infraction involved procedural law violations.

LPSK: West Java Dominates Requests for Victim Protection in Human Trafficking Cases in 2026

West Java remains the province with the highest number of requests for victim protection in human trafficking cases (TPPO) as of mid-2026, according to the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK). The agency recorded 132 requests by May 2026, while the West Java provincial government reported handling 60 cases this year, indicating a rising trend. LPSK officials are calling for strengthened cross-sector collaboration down to the village level to enhance prevention efforts.

HPV Immunisation for Boys in Yogyakarta to Begin August 2026

The Yogyakarta City Health Office will expand its Human Papillomavirus (HPV) immunisation programme to include primary school-aged boys starting in August 2026. The initiative, part of the National Action Plan for Cervical Cancer Elimination, aims to accelerate the eradication of HPV-related cancers and reduce transmission. The programme will initially target 11-year-old boys in three pioneer provinces: Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and Bali.

Askrindo wins Insurance Market Leaders Award

PT Asuransi Kredit Indonesia (Askrindo) has been named Market Leader for National General Insurance 2026 at the Insurance Market Leaders Award. The state-owned insurer attributes the win to its commitment to operational performance, strategy, and disciplined implementation of good corporate governance. Askrindo plans to further sharpen its growth strategy through product diversification, digital ecosystem modernisation, and strengthened risk management, particularly to expand protection for MSMEs.

IHSG Closes Higher, Boosted by Corporate Earnings Season

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) composite index closed up 1.56% on Thursday, buoyed by the release of first-half financial reports from listed companies. The rally occurred despite external market pressures and domestic uncertainty surrounding the succession of the central bank governor. Market participants are also looking ahead to key domestic economic data releases next week.

New RBC Sets New Capital Standards for Insurance, Is the Industry Ready?

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) is piloting a new Risk-Based Capital (RBC) framework with 10 insurance firms ahead of a planned 2027 implementation. Ciputra Life's President Director views the move as aligned with global standards, aiming to bolster policyholder protection and industry competitiveness. The industry is actively coordinating with regulators to ensure a smooth transition to the new capital requirements.

Veronica Tan Urges P3MI to Ensure Protection of Migrant Workers During Placement

Deputy Minister for Women's Empowerment and Child Protection, Veronica Tan, has called on Indonesian Migrant Worker Placement Companies (P3MI) to guarantee the protection of workers throughout the entire placement process, not just during recruitment. She stressed that failing to provide safeguards makes workers vulnerable to becoming victims of human trafficking. The government is strengthening cross-ministerial supervision and collaborating with health and witness protection agencies to optimise victim support.

407 Malls Across Indonesia to Hold 17-Day Discount Festival, Aiming for Rp38 Trillion in Transactions

The Indonesian Shopping Centres Association (APPBI) is extending the Indonesia Shopping Festival 2026 to 17 days, targeting Rp38 trillion in transactions, a significant increase from last year's Rp25 trillion. The festival will run from 7 to 23 August across 407 shopping centres nationwide, offering discounts of up to 80% alongside prize draws and local government-supported tax relief on advertising. The government is facilitating the event through multiple ministries to boost domestic trade and tourism.

JPPI on Constitutional Court Ruling on Free Nutritious Meals: Corrections Must Be Made Immediately

The Indonesian Education Monitoring Network (JPPI) has welcomed the Constitutional Court's decision to partially grant a judicial review petition, mandating the separation of the free nutritious meals (MBG) programme budget from the education budget by 2028. However, JPPI expressed disappointment that the correction is not required to begin with the 2027 state budget, arguing the two-year transition period is too long. The organisation insists the government and parliament should implement the separation immediately, warning that any delay will continue to structurally erode funds intended for school repairs, teacher welfare, and other educational needs.

BRI Provides Entrepreneurship Training for Indonesian Migrant Workers in Taiwan

State-owned Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has launched an entrepreneurship programme for 50 Indonesian migrant workers in Taiwan, aiming to transform remittances into productive business capital. The initiative includes training in financial literacy, business planning, and digital marketing to foster economic independence. BRI hopes the programme will enable workers to become self-sufficient entrepreneurs who create jobs upon returning to their home regions.

Deputy Minister: Village communities are agents of change driving human rights

Deputy Minister for Human Rights Mugianto has emphasised that village communities serve as crucial agents of change in advancing human rights across Indonesia. He stated that promoting human rights requires active participation from all elements of society, not just the state. The newly inaugurated human rights advocates are expected to ensure inclusive village development that prioritises vulnerable groups.

KPK Chief Speaks Out on Admin Staff Suspected of Extorting Pemalang Regent

The chairman of Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has pledged a thorough evaluation of internal data security systems after a police officer seconded to the agency was named a suspect in an extortion case involving the Regent of Pemalang. The officer, Setya Budi Dias Oktavianto, who served as an administrative staff member and aide to KPK leadership, is among four individuals detained. The KPK chief emphasised that document access must be strictly limited and logged to prevent future breaches and restore institutional morale.

Central Java Weather Forecast for 30 July 2026: Light Rain in 17 Regions

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) forecasts light rain across 17 mountainous and highland areas of Central Java on 30 July 2026, despite the ongoing dry season. The agency also warned of heightened risks of forest and land fires as well as strong winds, with the dry season expected to peak in August. High waves and coastal flooding continue to affect the northern and southern waters of Central Java, disrupting maritime activities.

Home Affairs Minister Signals Revision of Regional Head Salaries Linked to Performance and PAD

Indonesian Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has announced plans to revise regulations governing the salaries of regional heads, a policy framework unchanged since 2000. The proposed changes will tie financial compensation to performance indicators assessed by national bodies and local revenue generation, ensuring benefits extend to the public.

PT BKA Distributes Health and Education Aid in Motui, North Konawe Through PPM Programme

PT Bumi Konawe Abadi (BKA) has donated an ambulance and 608 school uniforms to residents in Motui District, North Konawe, as part of its Community Development and Empowerment programme. The initiative targets priority needs in the mining ring area, with local police and government officials praising the company's commitment to social welfare. The local government hopes this will serve as a model for other mining companies to invest in human resources and public facilities.

President Prabowo Calls for Nature Conservation, Proposes Planting Hundreds of Millions of Trees

President Prabowo Subianto has urged regional leaders and government agencies to prioritise environmental conservation, highlighting that Indonesia's natural beauty is a key draw for foreign tourists. He stressed the need to resolve the nation's waste problem within a year and called for an end to illegal logging. Prabowo also proposed planting hundreds of millions of new trees to maintain the country's aesthetic appeal.

Industrial Estates Bill to ease investment barriers: Minister

Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita announced that the Industrial Estates Bill aims to remove investment obstacles and redefine industrial estates as ecosystem operators rather than mere land managers. The bill, currently under deliberation with the House of Representatives, seeks to accelerate estate development and close the gap between investment commitments and actual production. The HKI chairman noted that the regulation is crucial for improving Indonesia's competitiveness against regional peers like Vietnam, Malaysia, and Thailand.

Warteg Kharisma Bahari Inaugurated, Proving Small Investments Boost Local Revenue

The Mayor of Gorontalo, Adhan Dambea, has officially inaugurated the Warteg Kharisma Bahari eatery, highlighting the importance of small-scale culinary investments in increasing Regional Original Income (PAD). He emphasised that since Gorontalo lacks large-scale mining or industrial sectors, the local economy relies heavily on trade and services to fund regional development projects.

Prabowo instructs civil servants and SOE employees to clean the environment every morning

President Prabowo Subianto has ordered all civil servants and state-owned enterprise employees to dedicate time each morning to cleaning their local environment. The initiative is part of a national movement to improve waste management and urban aesthetics. The government is also preparing financial incentives, including Rp20 billion for the five cleanest cities, to encourage regional leaders to participate.

Ministry of Transmigration dispatches 1,476 TEP 2026 participants to 53 transmigration areas

Indonesia's Ministry of Transmigration has officially deployed 1,476 Patriot Expedition Team (TEP) 2026 members to 53 transmigration areas across the country. Unlike the previous year's focus on research and economic potential mapping, this year's participants will implement concrete actions tailored to local community needs. The teams have been provided with funding to follow up on last year's mapping results and carry out development activities in the designated priority areas.

Detainee from Tangerang Police Dies in Suspected Suicide at Police Hospital

A detainee from the Tangerang City Police, identified by the initials SW, has died in a suspected suicide while receiving treatment at the Kramat Jati Police Hospital in East Jakarta. The incident occurred on Sunday, and police are currently investigating the circumstances, with an initial focus on potential negligence in detainee supervision. Indonesia Police Watch has called for an evaluation of detainee monitoring systems following the death.

Home Affairs Minister: President Has Repeatedly Warned Regional Heads Against Corruption

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian confirmed he has reported to President Prabowo Subianto regarding the increasing number of regional heads caught in corruption sting operations by the KPK. The President has repeatedly warned officials against corruption and fully supports enforcement actions. The Ministry is also discussing strengthening pre-service training for prospective regional heads, particularly those from non-bureaucratic backgrounds, to prevent legal violations.

Home Minister Urges Parties to 'School' Regional Head Candidates to Prevent Graft

Home Minister Tito Karnavian has called on political parties to provide mandatory governance training for regional head candidates ahead of local elections, in a bid to curb the frequent occurrence of corruption sting operations. He argued that candidates need a solid grounding in bureaucracy, financial management, and budgeting to avoid being misled by their staff. The Ministry of Home Affairs has offered its training facilities and is proposing a mandatory refresher course every six months for elected officials, similar to the military's career progression model.

Industrial Estates Bill to ease investment barriers: Minister

The Indonesian government has completed a draft Industrial Estates Bill aimed at transforming industrial estates into empowered ecosystem operators and accelerating their development by removing business obstacles. Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita stated the legislation is designed to shorten the gap between investment commitments and actual production. Stakeholders, including the Industrial Estate Association, have been invited to provide input, with the association highlighting the need for the bill to improve competitiveness and address bureaucratic licensing issues between central and regional governments.

Jakarta Governor permits weather modification to induce rain during dry season

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has authorised weather modification operations to create artificial rain over the capital amid a prolonged dry spell. The move reverses the usual practice of diverting rain clouds out to sea, as the region faces a potential severe drought. The BMKG has warned that the 2026 El Niño phenomenon could lead to an extended and drier dry season across Indonesia.

JCI Closes Up 1.56%, Approaching 6,200 Level

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) surged 1.56% to close at 6,186.36 on Thursday, buoyed by strong performances in banking and telecommunications heavyweights. The rally occurred despite a broader downturn in Asian markets and a weakening rupiah, which depreciated against a strengthening US dollar amid renewed geopolitical tensions between the US and Iran.

Indonesia Could Still See US$20 Billion Nickel Investment Boom, But...

Indonesia's nickel industry, which contributed US$44 billion in 2025, could attract an additional US$20 billion in investment between 2026 and 2028. However, industry leaders warn that regulatory uncertainty surrounding rare earth elements (REE) found as trace minerals in nickel and bauxite exports is causing shipment delays and threatening future investment. They are calling for clear governance, technical testing standards, and legal certainty to secure the sector's continued growth.

Court Rejects Pretrial Motion by Former Deputy Head of National Nutrition Agency

The South Jakarta District Court has dismissed a pretrial motion filed by Lodewyk Pusung, the former Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), challenging his corruption suspect status. The judge ruled that the court lacked the authority to hear the case. Pusung is one of seven suspects named by the Attorney General's Office in an alleged corruption case involving the management of the free nutritious meal programme.

IPC TPK Panjang Container Traffic Surges 73.7% in June 2026

IPC Terminal Petikemas (IPC TPK) Panjang reported a 73.7% year-on-year surge in container traffic for June 2026, driven by heightened trade activity in the Lampung region. The growth was supported by an additional ad hoc vessel call and a new domestic shipping service, reinforcing the port's strategic role as a logistics hub for southern Sumatra.

Government Supports Berau Cultural Preservation Through Dana Indonesia Raya

The Ministry of Culture has facilitated the launch of a programme in Berau Regency, East Kalimantan, aimed at preserving local culture through the Dana Indonesia Raya scheme. The initiative, spearheaded by the Ikatan Pencinta Batik Nusantara, integrates the development of distinctive Derawan and Maratua batik with the revitalisation of the traditional Dalling dance. The programme seeks to empower the younger generation while establishing visual identities that represent the region's coastal natural wealth.

Police Urged to Beware of Counterattacks from Corruptors After Uncovering Febrie Adriansyah Case

Anti-corruption activist Boyamin Saiman has warned the Indonesian National Police to remain vigilant against potential backlash from corrupt actors following the high-profile investigation into former senior prosecutor Febrie Adriansyah. He praised the police for their firm action but cautioned that hoaxes and slander on social media may be attempts to undermine the institution. Boyamin also expressed confidence in the current police chief, stating there is no urgency for a leadership change.

Why Indomaret and Alfamart Often Set Up Shop Next Door Despite Being Rivals

The clustering of Indonesian minimarket giants Indomaret and Alfamart in close proximity is a deliberate business strategy known as competitive clustering. This approach allows both chains to benefit from high consumer traffic in proven, strategic locations rather than seeking isolated spots. Each brand then competes on price, service, and product range to capture its share of the established market.

Waiting for El Niño: Between Water Pumps and the Fate of Banten's Farmers

As Banten's provincial government prepares water pumps to mitigate the impact of the predicted El Niño, concerns arise over whether this short-term measure is sufficient. The region's agriculture agency admits its current stock of five pumps falls short of the ideal seven, raising questions about long-term infrastructure planning and the fate of farmers beyond priority areas. The article argues that while the emergency response is commendable, sustainable solutions like reservoirs, drought-resistant crop varieties, and comprehensive insurance schemes are urgently needed to secure food resilience.

Prabowo Teases Police Chief and Attorney General for Sitting Close Together

President Prabowo Subianto light-heartedly remarked on the close seating proximity of National Police Chief Listyo Sigit Prabowo and Attorney General ST Burhanuddin during a housing event in Batang, Central Java. The president's quip, which drew laughter from attendees, underscored his message of strong synergy between law enforcement institutions. He further noted that this collaborative spirit extends to the regional level between police and prosecutors.

The Long Road to Turning Waste from a Burden into Worship

Indonesia is exploring an 'eco-theology' approach to tackle its waste crisis, framing environmental stewardship as a core religious duty. This shift, supported by the Ministry of Religious Affairs, integrates waste management and green practices into the curricula of Islamic boarding schools and madrasas. The goal is to foster a deeper, spiritually motivated commitment to sustainability beyond mere policy enforcement.

PLN to Build Six Solar Power Plants in Mimika to Serve Seven Remote Villages

Indonesia's state electricity company PLN is preparing to construct six solar power plants in a remote district of Mimika, Central Papua, to electrify seven villages beyond the reach of the conventional grid. The off-grid installations will have varying capacities and are expected to serve approximately 1,136 new customers. The project is part of a broader rural electrification drive projected to lift the total electrification ratio in Central Papua to 95.5 per cent.

KPK Insists It Does Not Target Individuals After 12 Regional Heads Arrested in 2026

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested 12 regional heads in sting operations so far in 2026, but insists it does not target individuals. Deputy Chair Fitroh Rohcahyanto stated the arrests are based on public reports and sufficient preliminary evidence. He urged the public to continue reporting suspected corruption to aid the commission's enforcement efforts.

IHSG Closes Up 1.56 Percent to 6,186 Level Today

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) Composite Index (IHSG) surged 1.56 percent to close at 6,186.36 on Thursday, driven by strong buying interest throughout the session. The rally was primarily supported by significant gains in major banking stocks, including BRI, BNI, BCA, and Mandiri. Total market transaction value reached Rp12.43 trillion, reflecting robust investor optimism.

President Prabowo Witnesses Mass Mortgage Signing for 62,000 Subsidised Homes in Batang

President Prabowo Subianto attended a mass mortgage signing ceremony for 62,000 subsidised homes held simultaneously across Indonesia, with the main event in Batang, Central Java. The event is part of the government's broader three-million-house programme aimed at expanding access to affordable housing for low-income communities. During the visit, the president inspected completed homes and symbolically handed over keys to several beneficiaries, including a trader, an online motorcycle taxi driver, and a factory worker.

The Irony of a Corruption Suspect Status

The decade-long corruption suspect status of former Deputy Minister of Law and Human Rights Denny Indrayana has drawn fresh scrutiny as he actively campaigns against graft. Legal experts argue the unresolved payment gateway case, which has lingered since 2015 without detention or trial, highlights critical flaws in Indonesia's criminal procedure code. They urge law enforcement to either proceed with the case or formally drop it to prevent undermining the criminal justice system.

Ministry of Defence Denies Kopdes Trainees Received Rp10 Million Salary, Clarifies It Was Rp1.5 Million Allowance

Indonesia's Ministry of Defence has refuted social media claims that participants in the Red and White Village Cooperative (KDKMP) training programme received salaries of up to Rp10 million. Major General Ketut Gede Wetan clarified that the funds were a living allowance of Rp1 million per month, totalling Rp1.5 million for the full one-and-a-half-month course. The statement addressed the first batch of training, which saw 33,846 participants complete the programme out of the 35,476 initially registered.

DPRD and Social Agency Push Cross-Agency Synergy to Optimise Kula Abhi Praya Shelter

The Denpasar Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) and the Social Agency are urging collaboration across all local government departments to maximise the use of the Kula Abhi Praya Shelter. The facility is intended as a temporary centre for counselling, protection, and recovery for vulnerable residents, rather than permanent housing. Officials stressed that complex social issues require coordinated efforts from agencies including education, health, and civil registration to provide comprehensive support.

Rote Ndao national salt center to begin production in September 2026

Indonesia's national salt production centre in Rote Ndao, East Nusa Tenggara, is scheduled to commence operations in September 2026, according to Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan. The modern facility, which includes a 10,000-ton warehouse, is expected to significantly reduce salt imports and stimulate the regional economy. The project aims to achieve high-purity salt yields while providing technical training and employment opportunities for local communities.

KUR Disbursement in South Kalimantan Reaches Rp2.69 Trillion in First Half of 2026

The Indonesian government's microcredit programme (KUR) has disbursed Rp2.69 trillion to 37,385 debtors in South Kalimantan during the first semester of 2026, achieving 43.04 per cent of its annual target. The agricultural sector received the largest share of the financing, with Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) acting as the dominant distributor. The province ranks 17th nationally and second within the Kalimantan region for KUR realisation.

Deputy Health Minister: TB Handling in Indonesia Prioritises Joint Efforts

Deputy Health Minister Benjamin stated that tackling tuberculosis in Indonesia relies on extraordinary collaboration between central and regional governments. This coordinated approach has significantly boosted case detection rates from 48 percent in 2020 to over 80 percent in 2025. The government is also preparing to allocate X-ray equipment to regions to accelerate early detection.

Indonesia Began on the Left: Revisiting the Foundational Ideas of Tan Malaka and Sjahrir

An analysis argues that the ideological foundations of the Indonesian Republic were profoundly shaped by leftist thought, particularly the anti-imperialist vision of Tan Malaka and the democratic socialism of Sutan Sjahrir. The article revisits their seminal works, 'Naar de Republiek Indonesia' and 'Perjuangan Kita', to highlight how concepts of social justice, people's sovereignty, and anti-fascism were central to the nation's early struggle. It concludes by questioning whether contemporary Indonesia still adheres to these foundational ideals of popular justice.

Elderly in Pati Complain About Rp 300,000 Cut from Death Benefit, Sub-District Head Speaks Out

An elderly resident of Trangkil Village, Pati, has complained that a village official deducted Rp 300,000 from his Rp 1 million social assistance death benefit. The Trangkil Sub-District Head, Wahyu Wuroyanto, stated that while the deduction was allegedly based on a prior agreement for administrative efforts, he does not condone the practice and has called for the money to be returned and the matter resolved amicably.

Targeting 870,000 Hectares, Agriculture Minister Confirms President's Free Seedling Programme Will Continue

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has reaffirmed the government's commitment to distributing free seedlings as part of a national priority programme to bolster food security. The initiative targets planting across 870,000 hectares nationwide, focusing on commodities such as coconut, sugarcane, and coffee based on regional potential and market demand. The programme aims to increase production and improve farmer welfare, with a target of distributing 17 million free tree seedlings by the end of 2025.

President Prabowo Announces Cleanest City Competition with Incentives up to IDR 20 Billion

President Prabowo Subianto has announced a national competition to find the cleanest city, promising substantial financial incentives for the winners. He called for a collective effort from all levels of government and society, including the military, police, and local community leaders, to clean up rivers and the environment. The top five cities could receive up to IDR 20 billion each, with additional prizes for the next tier of winners.

BTN Provides Affordable Mortgages to Boost Housing Sector Economy

PT Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) is accelerating mortgage distribution to support the government's 3 million homes programme. The bank is addressing supply-side issues such as licensing and land certification, while also proposing longer tenors and cheaper insurance to stimulate demand. These efforts aim to leverage the housing sector as a key driver of Indonesian economic growth.

Navigating the Free Nutritious Meal Programme: Balancing Child Nutrition and Economic Governance

Indonesia's ambitious Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme aims to tackle chronic malnutrition and stunting, which affects 21.5% of children and costs the economy up to 3% of GDP annually. The success of this large-scale social intervention hinges on robust fiscal governance and the integration of local supply chains to avoid budget leakages and trade deficits. By connecting meal procurement directly to local farmers, cooperatives, and village-owned enterprises, the programme could generate a significant economic multiplier effect rather than becoming a prolonged fiscal burden.

HKI Urges Government to Tackle Bureaucratic Hurdles for Industrial Investment

The Indonesian Industrial Estates Association (HKI) has called on the government to resolve bureaucratic obstacles that are delaying the realisation of investment commitments. HKI Chairman Akhmad Ma’ruf Maulana highlighted that unsynchronised central and regional policies are lengthening licensing processes, putting Indonesia at a disadvantage compared to faster-moving ASEAN competitors like Vietnam and Thailand. The association is also pushing for the acceleration of the Industrial Estates Bill to provide legal certainty and strengthen governance.

Deputy Minister Isyana: Education is the most important path to lift families out of poverty

Deputy Minister of Population and Family Development Ratu Ayu Isyana Bagoes Oka has emphasised that education is the most critical route to eradicating family poverty. She highlighted President Prabowo Subianto's 'Sekolah Rakyat' and 'Sekolah Garuda' programmes, which provide boarding, meals, and education to children who previously had no access to schooling. Isyana stressed that cross-agency collaboration is essential to provide scholarships and national internships, aiming to realise the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision.

IMI Central Board Orders Total Safety Standards Evaluation After Spectator Stand Collapse at Purwokerto Drifting National Championship

The Indonesian Motor Association (IMI) Central Board has announced a comprehensive review of safety standards and event management following the collapse of spectator stands at the National Drifting Championship in Purwokerto. The organisation expressed deep concern for the victims and confirmed that the number of hospitalised spectators has decreased from 41 to 16. IMI Chairman Moreno Soeprapto stated that the incident will serve as a basis for a total evaluation to tighten safety protocols and ensure the professional advancement of the sport.

Electric Car Manufacturer Lucid Motors Saved from Bankruptcy by Saudi Prince's Funds

Lucid Motors, the electric vehicle manufacturer, has received a crucial investment from Saudi Prince Al Waleed bin Talal Al Saud, who purchased a 5% stake amidst rumours of the company's impending bankruptcy. The investment comes as Lucid undergoes significant restructuring, including mass layoffs, to streamline its operations. The company, which is majority-owned by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, has denied reports of considering bankruptcy protection.

BMKG Records 5,019 Hotspots, Fastest Surge Since 2015 El Niño

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has recorded 5,019 hotspots as of mid-July 2026, with the accumulation rate surpassing that of the severe El Niño year of 2015. West Kalimantan, South Papua, and Riau are the top contributing regions, and the agency warns of a gradual increase in fire risk in Sulawesi by September. The current El Niño is forecast to peak around December 2026 to January 2027, potentially exceeding a strong category, while over half of the country has already entered the dry season.

Led by President, Deprindo Synergises to Realise 3 Million Houses Programme

President Prabowo Subianto officially launched a mass mortgage agreement for 62,000 subsidised housing units in Batang, Central Java, marking a significant milestone for the national 3 Million Houses Programme. The Indonesian Property Developers Association (Deprindo) has pledged to be a strategic government partner in accelerating housing construction. Deprindo's chairman emphasised that the President's direct involvement provides business optimism and signals that housing development is a national priority, with the association focusing on securing a conducive business climate and sustainable financing for its members.

Ministry of Home Affairs Equips Public Relations Officers to Combat Disinformation in the AI Era

Indonesia's Ministry of Home Affairs (Kemendagri) is enhancing the capacity of its public relations officers to tackle the growing challenge of disinformation in the digital age. A technical guidance programme focused on developing effective communication strategies that are fast, accurate, and data-driven to maintain public trust. Officials stressed that government communication must now go beyond merely disseminating information to actively building public understanding and countering misinformation.

Lanal Lampung and South Lampung Regency Government Hold Social Service for Community

The Indonesian Navy's Lampung Base (Lanal Lampung) and the South Lampung Regency Government conducted a free social service and health outreach at Bom Pier, Kalianda, to mark the 2026 anniversary of the Navy's Regional Command III. The initiative reflects ongoing synergy between the Navy and local authorities to deliver direct benefits to coastal communities. Officials emphasised that such collaboration strengthens inter-agency coordination and supports regional development goals.

Indonesia's Current Economy: Sustaining Growth Amidst Global Challenges

Indonesia's economy remains relatively stable compared to other developing nations, driven by household consumption and investment, but faces headwinds from a global slowdown and commodity price fluctuations. The government and Bank Indonesia are focused on controlling inflation, stabilising the rupiah, and advancing structural reforms such as downstream industrialisation and digital transformation. Despite challenges in job creation and digital access, the country's demographic bonus and natural resources present significant long-term opportunities for inclusive and sustainable growth.

Fishermen Village needs social engineering beyond infrastructure: BRIN

A researcher from Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has cautioned that the government's Fishermen's Village (KNMP) programme requires careful social engineering to succeed, warning against imposing utopian ideals that ignore grassroots realities. The agency advocates for a hybrid governance model that contractually involves existing middlemen, or fishing patrons, as partners rather than adversaries to ensure the new infrastructure is accepted by coastal communities. The initiative is part of a broader government effort to strengthen the maritime sector and build national self-reliance, as emphasised by President Prabowo Subianto.

Sorong Regency Government Optimises Livestock Contest to Improve Bali Cattle Genetics

The Sorong Regency Government in Southwest Papua is using a livestock contest to identify and preserve high-quality Bali cattle genetics. The initiative, funded through the Special Autonomy (Otsus) fund, aims to reverse a trend of genetic decline caused by farmers selling their best stock. The programme seeks to boost productivity and economic value for local breeders, particularly Indigenous Papuans.

Local Egg Production Meets Sorong Raya's Needs, Says Livestock Agency

The Sorong Regency Livestock and Animal Health Agency has confirmed that local egg production is sufficient to meet the needs of the Sorong Raya region. A major farm in Yeflio produces around 700 bundles daily, supporting market supply and the national free nutritious meal programme. The government continues to monitor the sector to ensure price stability and sustainable food availability.

South Sumatra Police Support National Food Security with Garlic Planting Initiative

The South Sumatra Regional Police (Polda Sumsel) has launched a garlic planting programme on two hectares of land in Pagar Alam to support national food security. The initiative, involving 1,400 kilograms of seeds, originated from discussions between the police chief and the mayor during the Idul Fitri holiday. The programme is ahead of a national police directive and includes plans for farmer study visits to Lampung to ensure successful cultivation.

Jakarta Flood Control: 61 Illegal Buildings Along Kali Sentiong Demolished

The Central Jakarta administration has demolished 61 illegal structures along the Kali Sentiong riverbank in Senen to restore the river's boundary and improve flood control. The eviction, which targeted dwellings and businesses across four community units, is part of a broader effort to revive stalled flood mitigation projects. Authorities plan to build sheet pile walls and convert the cleared land into green open spaces for public use.

BRI Strengthens Transformation Framework to Optimise Danantara's Role

Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) is reinforcing its business transformation framework, dubbed BRIvolution Reignite, to better align with and optimise the role of the national investment body Danantara Indonesia. The strategy focuses on strengthening the bank's funding structure and expanding its contribution to the people's economy. This move comes as BRI reported a 7.2 percent year-on-year increase in total assets to Rp2,250 trillion in the first quarter of 2026.

Home Minister Opens Door to Revising Regional Head Salaries, Linking to Performance and PAD

Home Minister Tito Karnavian has signalled a potential revision of Government Regulation No. 109/2000 concerning the financial rights of regional heads, noting the 26-year-old rules are outdated. He proposed that any salary adjustments for governors, regents, and mayors should be tied to performance indicators and local own-source revenue (PAD). The revision aims to incentivise regional heads to boost local income without burdening the public.

Economic Growth Projected to Slow, Rupiah Weakens to Rp 18,111 per US Dollar

The Indonesian rupiah continued its decline, closing at Rp 18,111 per US dollar on Thursday, amid projections of slowing economic growth in the second quarter of 2026. Analysts forecast Q2 growth between 4.8 and 4.9 percent, significantly lower than the 5.61 percent recorded in the first quarter. The currency's depreciation follows the resignation of Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo and is compounded by global pressures, tight monetary policy, and domestic fiscal uncertainty.

Cameroonian Man Survives Online Scam Ordeal in Cambodia with IOM Assistance

A Cameroonian man, identified as Eric, has recounted his harrowing experience of being trafficked into an online scam compound in Cambodia after a friend's false promise. He and his pregnant wife were held captive, forced to work without pay, and only released after their family paid a ransom, leaving them stranded in Phnom Penh. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) eventually provided critical support, facilitating their safe return to Cameroon under its Assisted Voluntary Return programme.

Indonesia Stocks Jump 1.6% as Blue Chips, Earnings Offset BI Succession Concerns

The Jakarta Composite Index surged 1.56% on Thursday, driven by blue-chip buying and corporate earnings optimism that overshadowed uncertainty over the next Bank Indonesia governor. Analysts noted that while the government has yet to nominate a candidate, market participants are more focused on the appointee's commitment to central bank independence and policy credibility. The rally came despite a cautious regional backdrop and external pressures from the US Federal Reserve's rate stance and heightened geopolitical tensions.

PDAM Temanggung spring water discharge drops 8 percent

The dry season in Temanggung Regency has caused an average 8 percent decline in spring water discharge supplying the local water utility, Perumda Air Minum Tirta Agung. The most severe drop, reaching 21 percent, occurred in the Pringapus Ngadirejo area, affecting services in Jumo. The utility is urging customers to conserve water but has not yet implemented water rationing.

AMKEI Calls for Peace, Entrusts Police with Investigation into Matraman Clash

The Angkatan Muda Kei Indonesia (AMKEI) has urged restraint and called for a thorough police investigation following a deadly brawl in Menteng, Central Jakarta. The organisation's chairman, John Kei, stressed a commitment to national unity and instructed members to cooperate with authorities. The violent clash, which began with a dispute over a noisy exhaust, resulted in one death and seven arrests.

Drone Hits US Gas Tanker in Egyptian Port, Two Ships Catch Fire

Two gas tankers caught fire at Egypt's Damietta Port after a suspected drone strike hit a US-owned vessel. The incident, which has not yet been claimed by any group, heightens fears of a widening conflict in the Middle East amid rising US-Iran tensions.

Smart shopping trend drives consumers to prioritise value

Indonesian consumers are increasingly adopting 'smart shopping' habits, focusing on overall value rather than just discounts. This shift prioritises product quality, long-term benefits, and the overall shopping experience. Retailers like The Grand Outlet Karawang are responding with curated brand selections, daily discounts, and loyalty programmes to meet this demand.

Prabowo Jokes About Acting BI Governor Destry: 'Okay? But It's Up to the DPR'

President Prabowo Subianto made a light-hearted remark about Acting Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti's potential permanent appointment during a housing finance event in Batang, Central Java. He quickly clarified that the final decision rests with the House of Representatives (DPR) in accordance with the law. The central bank governorship has been temporarily filled by Destry following Perry Warjiyo's resignation.

UN Panel Accuses Boeing Aircraft of Transporting Weapons and Mercenaries to Sudan's RSF

A United Nations panel has found evidence that Boeing aircraft were used to transport weapons, drones, and mercenaries to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan, a paramilitary group accused of genocide. The report details operations between Chad and Sudan, implicating a US-based charter company and a businessman with links to Brazil. The findings add a new dimension to the ongoing conflict, also highlighting the recruitment of Colombian mercenaries by a UAE-based firm.

Nickel Investors Have Poured US$44 Billion Into Indonesia, But Export Hurdles Emerge

The Indonesian Nickel Industry Forum has revealed that investors have already committed US$44 billion to the country's nickel sector, with an additional US$20 billion expected by 2028. However, business leaders are raising concerns that new testing requirements for rare earth elements are holding up nickel pig iron exports, damaging Indonesia's reputation and creating legal uncertainty. Industry associations are calling for clear technical parameters and standardised testing methodologies to protect the capital-intensive sector.

AGO Examines Eight Witnesses in Febrie Adriansyah Money Laundering Case

The Attorney General's Office has questioned eight witnesses as it deepens its investigation into money laundering allegations against former junior attorney general for special crimes, Febrie Adriansyah. The case is one of four new investigations, which also include probes into a PLN coal corruption case and matters involving PT Asabri and PT Krakatau Steel. Three other summoned witnesses failed to appear, and investigators are preparing to reissue their summons.

bank bjb Posts Stellar Performance, Profit Soars 58.8% and Assets Reach Rp228.2 T

Bank bjb reported a robust financial performance for the first half of 2026, with consolidated net profit surging 58.8% year-on-year to Rp783 billion. The bank's total consolidated assets reached Rp228.2 trillion, supported by a healthy credit portfolio and a strong focus on consumer lending. The lender is optimistic about sustaining growth through digital transformation and strategic partnerships with regional governments.

Anwar says Myanmar agrees to take 5,000 Rohingya refugees from Malaysia

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced that Myanmar has agreed to accept 5,000 Rohingya refugees currently residing in Malaysia, citing good bilateral relations. The statement comes amid rising local tensions and a recent government call for the UNHCR to review its refugee registration operations. Malaysia hosts around 126,000 UNHCR-registered Rohingya, but does not recognise them as refugees under its domestic laws.

Malinau Regency Transforms Waste into a Sustainable Economic Resource

The Malinau Regency government in North Kalimantan is converting waste into a sustainable economic asset through community-based bank sampah (waste banks). Supported by robust regulations and private sector collaboration, the initiative has seen the establishment of multiple waste banks that turn plastic into cash and organic waste into compost. The programme has successfully boosted local incomes, with some participants earning more than civil servants, while also garnering provincial awards for community environmental efforts.

Houthi Plan to Impose Red Sea Passage Fees Threatens Global Oil Prices

Yemen's Houthi group is considering imposing tariffs on commercial vessels transiting the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, raising fresh concerns over global energy supply chains. The move, which follows a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia, could significantly disrupt oil and LNG shipments and drive up prices. Reports suggest China may be exempt from the fees, while Iran is allegedly assisting the Houthis in establishing a collection authority.

BAZNAS Channels Alfamart Consumer Spare Change into Bridge Construction in Sukabumi

Indonesia's National Alms Agency (BAZNAS) has transformed small-change donations from Alfamart customers into a Rp 300 million permanent bridge in Sukabumi, West Java. The infrastructure, inaugurated on 29 July 2026, reconnects two villages and benefits over 500 families. Officials highlighted the project as proof that professionally managed micro-donations can deliver significant, long-term public benefits.

Maluku Strengthens Local Transmigration Programme to Build New Economic Centres

The Maluku provincial government is reinforcing its local transmigration programme and supporting the Patriot Expedition initiative to establish new economic hubs and accelerate poverty reduction. The approach is being tailored to the archipelagic region's characteristics, focusing on agricultural development and population distribution. There are also plans to integrate the programme with the development of the area surrounding the Masela Block national strategic project to create farming and logistics centres.

Riau Police Chief Absorbs Aspirations of Remote Residents in Indragiri Hilir through 'Ekspedisi Merah Putih'

Riau Regional Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan visited the remote coastal sub-district of Concong in Indragiri Hilir to engage with local communities and deliver aid. The initiative, part of the 'Ekspedisi Merah Putih Presisi' programme, employed a 'Green Policing' approach that integrates security, public welfare, and environmental conservation. Activities included planting mangrove seedlings, distributing school supplies, and providing economic stimulus such as outboard motors to local fishermen.

Pramono Optimises 31 TPS 3R, Prepares 40 Hectares of Land in Ciangir for Organic Waste Management

The Jakarta provincial government will focus on optimising 31 existing Reduce-Reuse-Recycle waste processing sites (TPS 3R) rather than building new ones until the end of 2026. Governor Pramono Anung aims to transform these facilities into comprehensive sorting and processing centres to significantly reduce reliance on the Bantargebang landfill. The administration has also acquired 40 hectares of land in Ciangir, Banten, specifically for organic waste management as part of a broader waste ecosystem.

Prabowo highlights tourism's role in driving Indonesia's economic growth

President Prabowo Subianto emphasised the strategic importance of the tourism sector for Indonesia's economy, citing its multiplier effect on local livelihoods from coffee farmers to hospitality workers. He urged regional governments to maintain cleanliness and preserve cultural heritage, noting that historic sites and revitalised infrastructure like Semarang Tawang Station can serve as major tourist attractions. The president's remarks align with broader government efforts to boost foreign exchange earnings and promote Indonesia as a world-class destination.

Prabowo Greets Attorney General and Police Chief Simultaneously: Always Close Together

President Prabowo Subianto created a light-hearted moment during a mass housing contract event in Batang, Central Java, by noting the close proximity of the Attorney General and the National Police Chief. The President greeted the two top law enforcement officials together, remarking that they were 'always close together'. The event was held to mark the distribution of subsidised mortgages under the FLPP scheme.

World Day Against Trafficking in Persons 2026: IOM Highlights Real Threat of Online Scams in Southeast Asia

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has used the 2026 World Day Against Trafficking in Persons to spotlight the severe threat posed by online scam centres in Southeast Asia. These compounds, primarily in Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos, are estimated to hold up to 300,000 people forced to conduct cyber fraud, often targeting the elderly in Western nations. The IOM and UN describe the situation as a humanitarian crisis requiring cross-border cooperation, as victims are typically lured by fake job advertisements before being subjected to forced labour and human rights abuses.

TEP to bolster local top commodities in transmigration areas: Ministry

Indonesia's Ministry of Transmigration is launching the 2026 Patriot Expedition Team (TEP) programme to strengthen the value chain of key commodities in transmigration areas. The initiative aims to boost productivity and incomes by improving cultivation, post-harvest processing, and market access for products like coffee, cocoa, and durian. Research suggests integrated development could add up to Rp120 trillion in annual export value and significantly increase regional economic productivity.

Home Affairs Minister reveals regional head salary regulations to be revised

Minister of Home Affairs Tito Karnavian has announced plans to revise the 25-year-old government regulation governing the financial rights of regional heads. The reformulation aims to create a more proportional and fair system linked to performance and locally generated revenue, with the goal of encouraging innovation and minimising corruption.

OJK completes investigation into 17 market manipulation cases

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has concluded its investigation into 17 cases of market manipulation as part of an accelerated integrity reform plan. A further five cases remain under active investigation and ten are in the final stages of resolution. The completed cases will now proceed to the administrative sanction phase under the newly enacted Financial Sector Development and Strengthening Law.

Attorney General's Office Urged to Prove Predicate Crime in Febrie Adriansyah's Money Laundering Case

The legal team for former junior attorney general for special crimes Febrie Adriansyah has challenged prosecutors to prove the underlying criminal offence that generated the assets in his money laundering case. The defence insists that the seizure of 74 kilograms of gold and Rp476 billion must be linked to a clear predicate crime, rather than relying solely on the suspect's statements. The Attorney General's Office is currently investigating Adriansyah for money laundering, with the case linked to several other high-profile corruption investigations.

Home Affairs Minister Says Regional Head Remuneration Needs Revision, Must Be Based on Performance and PAD

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has called for a revision of Government Regulation No. 109 of 2000 concerning the financial rights of regional heads, deeming it outdated due to inflation and currency fluctuations. The proposed adjustment would tie operational support costs directly to performance indicators and increases in locally generated revenue (PAD). A cross-ministerial team will be formed to formulate the new scheme, which aims to incentivise regional heads to boost revenue without burdening the public.

Depok Faces Drought, Residents Queue with Jugs for Clean Water

Residents in Depok, West Java, are grappling with a severe water crisis as wells run dry nearly a month into the dry season. The Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) has begun distributing clean water to hundreds of affected people in densely populated areas. Authorities plan to continue emergency supplies periodically until groundwater levels stabilise.

Pegadaian and Manpower Ministry Forge New Collective Labour Agreement for Conducive Work Climate

PT Pegadaian (Persero) has received official approval from the Ministry of Manpower for its new Collective Labour Agreement (PKB) for the 2026-2028 period. The agreement, signed in Jakarta, aims to establish a harmonious and equitable industrial relations framework while providing legal certainty for employees' rights and obligations. Pegadaian's management emphasised that this strategic partnership is designed to boost corporate productivity and support the state-owned enterprise's contribution to the national economy.

Prabowo Claims Asbestos and Zinc Roofs Cause Lung Cancer in Young People

President Prabowo Subianto has claimed that many young Indonesians are developing lung cancer due to chemical exposure from asbestos and zinc roofing. He urged a nationwide effort to replace these materials with traditional alternatives like clay tiles or thatch. The president also set a one-year target to resolve Indonesia's waste management issues and called for extensive tree planting.

Efforts to Reduce Jakarta's Waste Pile Through Menteng Atas TPS3R

The Menteng Atas Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Waste Processing Site (TPS3R) in Jakarta is being optimised to handle up to 100 tonnes of waste daily. The facility is a key part of the Jakarta Provincial Government's strategy to lessen the burden on the Bantargebang final disposal site. Currently, 31 such facilities exist across the capital, though not all are operating at full capacity.

Home Affairs Ministry Equips Public Relations Officers with Effective Communication Strategies for the Digital Era

The Ministry of Home Affairs (Kemendagri) is enhancing the capacity of its public relations officers to develop effective communication strategies in response to the rapidly evolving digital landscape. A technical guidance session highlighted the critical role of government PR in countering disinformation and building public understanding of policies. Officials stressed that communication must be fast, accurate, and responsible to maintain public trust amidst Indonesia's 230 million internet users.

PSI Likens Jokowi's Bond with NTT People to the 'Elephant Tusk' Philosophy

The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) has described the relationship between former President Joko Widodo and the people of East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) as embodying the 'elephant tusk' philosophy, a symbol of honour and commitment in local tradition. PSI executive Ahmad Ali stated that Jokowi's planned visit to the region serves to maintain emotional bonds and political trust, highlighting his administration's infrastructure legacy. The party urged the public to separate political differences from assessments of regional development achievements.

New Malang Police Chief Visits Court and Prosecutor's Office on First Day to Strengthen Law Enforcement Synergy

AKBP Rulian Syauri, on his first day as Malang Police Chief, visited the Kepanjen District Court and the Malang District Prosecutor's Office to introduce himself and build inter-agency communication. The courtesy calls aimed to reinforce coordination among law enforcement bodies to ensure optimal legal processes and maintain public order. He emphasised that strong synergy between the police, courts, and prosecutors is key to a safe and conducive security situation in the Malang jurisdiction.

Indonesia pivots digital strategy to drive economic growth

Communication and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid has announced a shift in Indonesia's digital strategy, moving from mere network expansion to fostering meaningful economic growth. The new Digital Infrastructure Roadmap 2026–2030 focuses on building an integrated ecosystem through cloud computing, enhanced cybersecurity, and expanded broadband access.

Pegadaian Receives 2026-2028 Collective Labour Agreement Decree from Manpower Ministry, Strengthening Industrial Relations Foundation

PT Pegadaian has officially received the decree for its 2026-2028 Collective Labour Agreement from the Ministry of Manpower. The agreement, signed by management and the workers' union, aims to establish a conducive and fair working environment. It provides legal certainty, strengthens industrial relations, and aims to boost corporate productivity for the next three years.

KPK Denies Targeting Regents in Surge of Sting Operations

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has addressed the recent surge in sting operations that have ensnared a dozen regional heads, stating it does not target specific individuals. The anti-graft body emphasised that its actions are based on public complaints and the sufficiency of evidence, rather than a deliberate focus on regents. The KPK also clarified that the absence of arrests at the gubernatorial or ministerial level is due to a lack of sufficient preliminary evidence, not a form of protection.

Zulhas Inspects Salt Industry Centre in Rote Ndao, Targets Self-Sufficiency and Import Reduction

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan inspected the development of the National Salt Industry Centre (KSIGN) in Rote Ndao, East Nusa Tenggara, aiming to achieve salt self-sufficiency and reduce imports. The project, spanning an initial 751 hectares with plans for expansion, is designed to modernise production and boost the local economy. The government expects production to commence by September, with the facility projected to yield up to 200 tonnes per hectare annually at high quality.

Getting to Know Hendra Arifin, HokBen Founder Who Left Engineering Career, a Decision Once Opposed by His Family

Hendra Arifin left a stable 13-year engineering career at Astra International to pioneer affordable Japanese-style fast food in Indonesia, a move initially opposed by his family. Observing that simple Japanese meals were overpriced for the local market, he travelled to Japan to study the bento business model firsthand. His venture eventually grew into HokBen, one of the country's most enduring local fast-food chains.

Constitutional Court Orders Free Nutritious Meal Programme Budget Removed from Education Spending

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has ruled that the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme must be removed from the national education budget, citing legal uncertainty and a violation of mandatory education spending requirements. The court has given the government and parliament until the 2028 state budget to separate the programme's funding from the education allocation. The ruling found that including the meal scheme under operational education costs had improperly expanded the definition of education expenditure.

Pramono Seeks Parliament's Help for Jakarta's Revenue-Sharing Funds, HNW Points to 'Toll Road' to DPR Speaker

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has requested support from the city's national parliamentarians to expedite the disbursement of revenue-sharing funds (DBH) from the central government. In response, House of Representatives (DPR) Deputy Speaker Hidayat Nur Wahid noted that Pramono, as a senior PDI-P politician, already has a direct 'toll road' to DPR Speaker Puan Maharani. The Jakarta administration is facing a significant shortfall, with DBH disbursements currently at only 23 percent of the budget ceiling, leading to a Rp15 trillion cut in the 2026 regional budget.

Prabowo Teases Destry and Hints at BI Governor Candidate

President Prabowo Subianto made light-hearted remarks about Bank Indonesia's acting governor Destry Damayanti during a housing finance event in Central Java, playfully suggesting her suitability for the permanent role. His comments come amid the ongoing search for a definitive central bank chief following Perry Warjiyo's resignation. The president also stressed the importance of unity and cooperation between state-owned banks and the central bank to achieve national goals.

West Lombok DPRD Slams NTB Provincial Government Over Near-Collapse Schools Left Unrepaired

The West Lombok Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) has criticised the Nusa Tenggara Barat (NTB) provincial government for its slow response in repairing severely damaged high schools. Hundreds of students are forced to study in emergency locations such as canteens and lobbies after classrooms were sealed off due to safety concerns. A local councillor has demanded immediate action and even suggested that management of the schools be returned to the district authority if the province cannot cope.

Drought Spreads, 20 Villages in Tangerang Regency Face Clean Water Crisis

An extreme dry season has triggered a clean water crisis across 20 villages in Tangerang Regency, Banten, forcing residents to rely on aid for daily needs. The Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) has distributed nearly 200,000 litres of water so far, as local wells have dried up. Authorities warn that more than 20 sub-districts are at risk of drought and have urged residents to conserve water.

Pramono Instructs Education Agency to Expedite Completion of SDN Cipete 01 Building

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has ordered the immediate completion of the SDN Cipete Utara 01 school building, which has been stalled for nearly a year. The provincial government is now prioritising the school's construction and has scrapped plans for a mixed-use high-rise on the site. The project is now targeted for completion by September 2026.

DPR Urges Government to Reformulate Regional Heads' Salaries to Curb Corruption

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) is urging the government to revise the salary and benefits structure for regional heads, arguing that the current regulations are 26 years old and no longer reflect the complexity of their duties. The proposed reformulation aims to be performance-based, offering rewards for good governance and sanctions for underperformance. This initiative is seen as a strategic step to minimise potential abuse of power and corruption at the regional level.

Industry Minister: Industrial Estate Bill to Cut Investment Barriers

Indonesia's Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita announced that a new Industrial Estate Bill aims to strengthen industrial zones and accelerate investment by removing bureaucratic hurdles. The bill, currently under discussion with the House of Representatives, seeks to transform industrial estates from mere land managers into comprehensive ecosystem providers. Industry players have highlighted the need for synchronised licensing between central and regional governments to boost competitiveness against regional neighbours like Vietnam and Malaysia.

BI Launches SINDANG PRIATIM, Integrating Food Data and AI to Curb Inflation

Bank Indonesia's Tasikmalaya office, in collaboration with local governments in East Priangan, has launched an enhanced data platform called SINDANG PRIATIM. The system integrates regional food price and supply data with an AI-powered early warning system to support more precise inflation control policies. The platform aims to improve coordination among regional inflation control teams by providing real-time data on commodity balances, price movements, and market operations.

Home Affairs Minister Tito Admits Reporting Surge in Regional Heads Caught in Sting Operations to Prabowo

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has confirmed he reported the increasing number of regional heads ensnared in Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) sting operations to President Prabowo Subianto. The latest operation saw the arrest of Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro, marking the 18th sting operation this year and bringing the total number of regional heads caught to 12. Minister Tito stated that President Prabowo consistently supports anti-corruption efforts and has repeatedly warned regional leaders against engaging in corrupt practices.

Govt to prioritize EV incentives for national automotive brands

The Indonesian government plans to prioritize electric vehicle incentives for national automotive brands as part of a broader industrialization strategy. The policy, still lacking detailed criteria, is linked to a national car project that includes developing a 412-hectare industrial zone in Subang and may involve sovereign wealth fund Danantara. While the national car plan is in early stages, the electric motorcycle program has already distributed 3,000 units under state defense firm PT LEN.

Ministry of Forestry Names Two Suspects in Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park Encroachment, Excavator Seized

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry has named two suspects for illegally clearing a road inside the Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park in Lampung Barat. The suspects, a 64-year-old equipment owner and a 26-year-old excavator operator, were apprehended during a forest security operation. Officials warn that such illegal access routes pose a serious threat, potentially triggering further deforestation, poaching, and other environmental crimes in the conservation area.

Strengthening Ecosystems and Investment Certainty in Cities - APEKSI

The Association of Indonesian City Governments (APEKSI) has stressed that cities must build holistic ecosystems to provide investment certainty, moving beyond merely attracting capital. Executive Director Alwis Rustam highlighted that factors such as regulatory consistency, quality of life, and digital governance are now critical for investor confidence. He urged all Indonesian cities to identify their unique economic strengths and 'level up' to drive national growth.

Jatiluhur Dam CCTV Blind Spot Exposed After Security Guard's Death

Perum Jasa Tirta II has admitted that the location where security guard Sumarna was fatally attacked was a blind spot, situated two kilometres from the nearest of the 27 CCTV cameras monitoring the Jatiluhur Dam. The company plans to review and expand its surveillance coverage in coordination with police. The victim's family has received over Rp 418 million in compensation and educational scholarships.

BMKG Urges Energy Ministry and PLN to Anticipate Electricity Surge During El Niño

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has called on energy authorities to prepare for a potential spike in electricity demand as the El Niño phenomenon intensifies the dry season. The agency warns that rising temperatures will drive up air conditioning use, straining the national grid, while simultaneously threatening hydropower output due to depleted water reserves. Precise water management at dams is deemed critical to maintaining a stable power supply.

Indonesia Seeks to Enhance Digital Partnership with Switzerland

Indonesia has expressed a strong desire to deepen its digital partnership with Switzerland, building on over seven decades of bilateral relations. The call was made by the Indonesian Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs during Switzerland's National Day celebration, highlighting opportunities for innovation and digital diplomacy. The minister also acknowledged Switzerland's strategic role as a host for key multilateral forums in the telecommunications and digital sectors.

UI Faculty of Medicine reveals collagen's potential to accelerate diabetic wound healing

Researchers from the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Medicine have found that collagen supplementation can significantly accelerate the healing of diabetic foot ulcers. A study involving 69 patients showed that daily intake of 10 grams of hydrolysed collagen over 21 days improved wound healing and increased albumin levels. The findings suggest collagen could be developed as an affordable adjunct therapy for diabetes patients.

DKI Jakarta Prepares Land in Banten for Organic Waste Processing

The Jakarta provincial government has acquired a 40-hectare plot in Banten to process organic waste as part of a broader strategy to reduce the burden on the Bantargebang landfill. The initiative is a key component of a roadmap developed with the Ministry of Environment to transition away from open dumping practices. The plan targets a significant reduction in open dumping at Bantargebang by the end of 2026, alongside increased controlled landfill operations and waste processing.

China's top leaders set to hold October meeting on internal governance, pledge measures to support economy

China's ruling Communist Party will convene its Central Committee in October to address internal party governance amid what the Politburo described as 'difficulties and challenges facing the economy'. The meeting, which typically focuses on the five-year strategic blueprint, has been rescheduled following a delayed third plenum last year. The leadership also pledged to accelerate fiscal spending and introduce incremental policies to bolster economic growth in the second half of the year.

Home Affairs Minister Urges Political Parties to Strengthen Training to Curb Regional Head Corruption

Minister of Home Affairs Tito Karnavian has called on political parties to enhance technical guidance and party education for prospective regional head candidates to prevent corruption. He proposed mandatory pre-nomination training on bureaucracy and financial management, alongside periodic refresher courses for elected officials. The initiative aims to equip leaders with the knowledge to avoid being manipulated by subordinates and to manage regional budgets accountably.

Prabowo Again Reminds Regional Heads: Do Not Mobilise the Public to Welcome Me

President Prabowo Subianto has reiterated his request for regional leaders not to mobilise crowds during his official visits, expressing concern for citizens forced to wait in the heat. Speaking at a housing finance event in Batang, Central Java, he acknowledged the warmth of the people but stressed that effective government service is more important than ceremonial welcomes.

Indonesia pivots digital strategy to drive economic growth

Indonesia is shifting its digital development focus from simply expanding network coverage to ensuring connectivity delivers tangible economic and social benefits. The new Digital Infrastructure Roadmap 2026–2030, launched by Bappenas, prioritises an integrated ecosystem of cloud computing, fibre optics, and submarine cables to boost productivity and digital sovereignty. The strategy aims to align internet access with the nation's long-term vision of Indonesia Emas 2045, while also strengthening cybersecurity and data protection.

Breakdown of Indonesia's Debt Servicing Bill, How Much Must Be Paid?

Indonesia's debt servicing obligations reached Rp567.60 trillion in 2025, marking an 8.29% increase from the previous year. The rise was primarily driven by higher interest payments on Government Securities (SBN), particularly Rupiah-denominated bonds. The Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) also noted a discrepancy between the operational expense and the actual budget realisation for interest payments.

Telkomsel Partners with China Telecom to Explore Integrated Digital Solutions

Telkomsel has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with China Telecom Global to develop integrated digital solutions for Indonesia's enterprise and industrial sectors. The partnership will focus on leveraging 5G, AI, IoT, and ICT services to enhance operational efficiency in areas such as mining, manufacturing, and logistics. The collaboration aims to combine China Telecom's technological capabilities with Telkomsel's local market expertise and infrastructure.

NHM and North Halmahera Government Strengthen ESG Implementation through Mangrove Conservation and Community Empowerment in Kao

PT Nusa Halmahera Minerals (NHM) has partnered with the North Halmahera district government to plant mangroves in the Kao Essential Ecosystem Area, reinforcing their commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. The initiative, which includes community involvement through the Green Kaidati group, aims to protect coastal ecosystems, absorb carbon emissions, and preserve biodiversity. The collaboration also seeks to create sustainable economic benefits for local communities by supporting mangrove nurseries and future ecotourism development.

Constitutional Court Rules Free Nutritious Meal Budget Must Be Separated from Education Spending

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has ruled that the budget for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme cannot be included within the mandatory 20% education spending allocation. The court found that placing the programme's substantial costs under the education budget could undermine the constitutional right to education. The government has been given until the 2028 state budget to fully separate the funding.

Qodari Tests Digital Social Protection, Benefit Verification Now More Accurate and Data-Driven

Head of the Government Communication Body, Muhammad Qodari, has trialled the new Digital Social Protection registration system in Surabaya, witnessing first-hand its use of facial recognition and integrated data. The system cross-references citizen data with various agencies, including the state electricity company and police records, to ensure aid is distributed fairly and accurately. The initiative aims to eliminate subjectivity, speed up verification, and increase transparency in the distribution of social assistance.

West Java's Voter Roll Reaches 37.7 Million in First Half of 2026

West Java has solidified its position as the province with the largest electorate in Indonesia, with the Permanent Voter List (DPT) reaching 37,759,992 people. This figure represents 17.6 percent of the national total of 214.3 million voters, as confirmed by the General Elections Commission (KPU) during a national plenary meeting. The data highlights the province's significant demographic weight in the country's electoral landscape.

DPRD DKI Reviews Trans-Jakarta Tariff Adjustment, Urges Protection of Public Affordability

The Jakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) is evaluating a proposed tariff adjustment for the Trans-Jakarta bus service, which has remained unchanged since 2007. Commission B Chairman Nova Harivan Paloh stressed that any increase must not burden citizens, especially given the current economic conditions and rising subsidy costs. The DPRD is also examining the legal framework for the fare revision, which may involve a gubernatorial regulation or a regional bylaw.

JCI Closes Up 1.56%, Over 500 Stocks in the Green

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) surged 1.56% to close at 6,186.36 on Thursday, buoyed by strong buying activity throughout the session. The rally was broad-based, with more than 500 stocks advancing, and was notably supported by gains in major banking shares.

TEKAD PBRT Programme Strengthens 1,700 Households' Economic Resilience in Papua

The TEKAD PBRT programme, a collaboration between the Ministry of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions, IFAD, and the Kitong Bisa Foundation, has provided entrepreneurship and financial literacy training to 1,700 households across 79 villages in Papua. The initiative focuses on simplifying economic concepts and integrating training with capital support to build sustainable family economies. Officials highlighted the challenging logistics of reaching remote villages and the programme's role in laying a foundation for long-term welfare in the region.

Masela Block LNG Project Worth Rp340 Trillion Officially Breaks Ground

The Abadi LNG project in the Masela Block, Tanimbar Islands, has officially commenced with an investment value of US$20.9 billion. The government has mandated that a minimum of 60 per cent of its 9.5 million tonnes per year LNG output be allocated for domestic needs. The project is also set to integrate carbon capture and storage technology and is expected to create 12,000 jobs.

Government Optimistic Car Production Will Exceed 850,000 Units

The Indonesian government is confident that national car production will surpass 850,000 units in 2026, following a strong first half where output reached 615,000 units. Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita highlighted an 11.3% production growth and noted the country's shift from a market base to a production base. The minister also pointed to the low car ownership ratio of 19 per 1,000 people as a significant opportunity for domestic market expansion.

Bank Mandiri Disburses Rp 21.41 Trillion in KUR Loans, Reaching 52% of Target by Mid-2026

Bank Mandiri has disbursed Rp 21.41 trillion in People's Business Credit (KUR) as of June 2026, achieving 52.21% of its annual target. The state-owned bank's lending, which prioritises the agricultural sector, has reached over 116,000 new micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) debtors. The institution also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting government housing programmes and strengthening the national economic ecosystem through the Danantara initiative.

Jakarta Council Commission B Considers Regional Bonds as Funding Option Amid Delayed Revenue Sharing

The Jakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) is exploring the issuance of regional bonds to sustain development projects as the central government withholds approximately Rp15 trillion in Revenue Sharing Funds (DBH). Commission B Chairman Nova Harivan Paloh stated that the bonds could finance urgent priorities, including the Jakarta LRT, while legislators seek to expedite the release of the delayed funds. The proposal comes as the Jakarta administration prepares a Rp3.5 trillion bond issuance plan for 2027.

PDIP's Deddy Highlights Tabanan Mob Killing, Home Minister Quips About Local Leader's Party

A PDIP lawmaker has urged regional governments to take greater responsibility for public safety following a series of fatal mob attacks, including the killing of a chicken thief in Tabanan, Bali. Home Minister Tito Karnavian responded by pointedly asking which party the Tabanan regent belonged to, prompting a clarification that the regent is a PDIP cadre who has since provided assistance to the victim's family. The exchange highlighted tensions over local leadership accountability and the need for preventive measures against vigilante violence.

Yogyakarta Motorised Becak Drivers Protest Malioboro Pedestrianisation Plan

Hundreds of motorised becak (bentor) drivers in Yogyakarta have protested against the planned full pedestrianisation of Malioboro, demanding continued access for their livelihoods. The drivers' association argues that the policy should not be enforced until all members have received functional electric becaks as replacements, noting that nearly half of the 80 units distributed so far are broken. The local transport agency has pledged to convey their request for partial road access during car-free days to the regional government.

Constitutional Court Rules on Free Nutritious Meal Budget, Ministry Responds

The Indonesian government has affirmed its respect for the Constitutional Court's decision regarding the budget allocation for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme within the 2026 state budget. The court ruled that funding for the programme must be separated from the mandatory 20 per cent education budget allocation by 2028 at the latest. Despite the ruling, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education maintains that the programme is integral to improving student motivation and learning quality.

Police arrest courier with 5.4 kg of cannabis at Sorong Port

Police in Sorong, Southwest Papua, have arrested a 24-year-old woman for allegedly attempting to smuggle 5.455 kilograms of cannabis into the city via a passenger ship from Jayapura. The suspect, identified only by the initials FAK, reportedly confessed to acting as a courier and intended to hand the drugs to a contact waiting in the port's car park. Authorities have charged her under Indonesia's narcotics law and reaffirmed their commitment to eradicating drug trafficking in the region.

Pramono Says Business Trust Enables Jakarta Projects Without Relying on Regional Budget

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung stated that business confidence in the provincial government has allowed strategic projects to proceed without depending on the regional budget (APBD). He highlighted the use of creative financing schemes, such as floor area ratio bonuses and naming rights, to fund public infrastructure. This approach aims to free up the APBD for social programmes like education and health, especially following cuts to central government transfers.

Non-Active Riau Governor Abdul Wahid Sentenced to 2 Years in Prison

The Pekanbaru Corruption Court has sentenced non-active Riau Governor Abdul Wahid to two years in prison for corruption, a significantly lighter penalty than the 8.5 years sought by KPK prosecutors. The court found him guilty of abuse of power and accepting gratuities totalling Rp2.4 billion from officials within the provincial public works department. In addition to the prison term, Wahid was fined Rp200 million and ordered to pay Rp1.4 billion in restitution to the state.

Investors Tour MMIX Subsidiary Factory to Monitor Business Potential

PT Multi Medika Internasional Tbk (MMIX) hosted investors at its subsidiary's manufacturing facility in Legok, Tangerang, to showcase its operational readiness and transformation into an integrated FMCG company. The visit, facilitated by fintech platform Ajaib, allowed investors to observe the high-speed production lines of PT Multi Nice Paper Indonesia (MNPI), a joint venture with a Chinese hygiene products manufacturer. MMIX management stated the tour was intended to provide transparency and demonstrate the company's long-term growth prospects.

US bans imports of humanoid robots, robot dogs, and power inverters

The United States government has announced a ban on the import of humanoid robots, robot dogs, and power inverters, citing national security risks. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) stated these devices could be remotely controlled or used for surveillance by foreign governments. The ban is expected to significantly impact Chinese manufacturers, who dominate the global market for these products.

UK and Indonesia Strengthen Ties with Rail Partnership Forum 2026

The United Kingdom and Indonesia held a Rail Partnership Forum in Jakarta to support Indonesia's sustainable transport ambitions, including MRT expansion and railway modernisation. His Majesty's Trade Commissioner Martin Kent led a delegation of 15 UK companies, highlighting British expertise in planning, engineering, and financing. The event builds on growing bilateral economic ties, with trade reaching £4 billion in 2025, and forms part of the broader UK-Indonesia economic growth partnership.

Algorithm Strengthens Radicalisation Exposure in Digital Spaces, Minister Warns

Minister of Communication and Digital Meutya Hafid has warned that digital radicalisation often begins subtly through online games, personal assistance, and repetitive algorithmic content recommendations rather than overt calls to violence. The combination of extreme narratives and algorithms creates a post-truth environment where emotion overrides fact, with children and teenagers identified as particularly vulnerable to gradual recruitment. Officials stressed that counter-terrorism efforts must integrate prevention, education, and cross-sector collaboration, while families are urged to monitor changes in children's communication patterns.

Video: How AI Helps Businesses Boost Sales in e-Commerce

The adoption of artificial intelligence in Indonesia's e-commerce sector is accelerating, with companies like SIRCLO leveraging the technology to enhance efficiency and support business decision-making. Founder and CEO Brian Marshal notes that while AI usage is already massive, its full impact will take time due to uneven data readiness across different business segments. The discussion highlights how AI is transforming consumer behaviour and sales strategies for both SMEs and large enterprises.

Clean Energy Powers Student Learning at Riau Junior High School

Pertamina NRE has installed a 2.2 kWp solar power system with 5 kWh battery storage at SMPN 2 Mandau in Bengkalis, Riau, through its Sekolah Energi Berdikari programme. The initiative supports school activities, particularly science laboratory lessons, while serving as a practical educational tool on renewable energy for 768 students and 5 teachers. The system is projected to cut carbon emissions by 2.25 tonnes of CO2 annually and save approximately Rp295,728 in electricity costs per year.

Global Chip Crisis Worsens, Driving Up Prices of Phones and Laptops Until 2028

The global memory chip shortage, intensified by surging demand for AI infrastructure, is expected to persist and worsen through 2028, according to Samsung Electronics. This supply crunch has led to soaring profits for memory chip manufacturers like Samsung, but is simultaneously causing losses in their consumer electronics divisions due to rising component costs. Samsung's semiconductor division saw its operating profit skyrocket over 250-fold, while the company also announced long-term supply deals with major data centre firms to secure future production.

Do Not Stop Striving: Contemplation on Surah Al-Insyirah Verses 7–8

A reflection on the final verses of Surah Al-Insyirah offers guidance on maintaining spiritual momentum after worldly tasks are completed. The verses instruct believers to turn from one completed good deed to another with renewed effort and to direct all hope solely to God. The commentary warns against allowing free time to become negligence or success to breed arrogance.

Prabowo says train station revitalisation can spur tourism sector

President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised that revitalising historic railway stations, such as the newly inaugurated Semarang Tawang Station, can transform them into major tourist attractions and boost cultural heritage tourism. He stated that the preservation of these stations is part of a broader national transformation to improve public infrastructure quality, cleanliness, and environmental aesthetics. The project, completed over 240 days, aims to strengthen regional tourism while safeguarding Indonesia's historical legacy.

Constitutional Court Rules Free Nutritious Meal Programme Constitutional, But Budget Must Be Separated from Education Budget

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has upheld the constitutionality of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme but mandated that its funding be allocated as a separate budget item, distinct from the education budget. The court ruled that while the 2026 State Budget remains constitutional, the explanatory note allowing MBG funding from the education allocation is conditionally unconstitutional and cannot be used for future budgets. The government must now adjust the education budget to meet the mandatory 20 per cent spending floor and find alternative funding sources for the MBG programme.

Roles of Three ATM Skimming Suspects in Pamulang Revealed, They Targeted Morning Customers

Police in South Tangerang have detailed the specific roles of three men arrested for a series of ATM tampering incidents at a hospital in Pamulang. The syndicate operated during the early morning hours, with one member jamming the machine, another posing as a helpful bystander, and a third acting as a lookout. The suspects were apprehended after a struggle during which a security guard was injured by a ricochet.

South Sumatra Police Chief Orders Proactive Community Engagement and Wildfire Mitigation

South Sumatra Police Chief Inspector General Sandi Nugroho has instructed all precinct chiefs to proactively engage with communities, particularly in villages, to address local issues and ensure public safety. The directive emphasises a shift from reactive policing to direct field presence, especially for mitigating forest and land fires ahead of the dry season. The initiative also integrates public information transparency to build trust and ensure the public is aware of police activities.

Constitutional Court Bans Use of Education Budget for Free Nutritious Meals Programme

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has partially granted a judicial review, ruling that the state education budget can no longer be used to fund the government's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The court ordered the separation of MBG funding from the education budget starting from the 2027 or 2028 state budget at the latest. The ruling emphasised that the constitutionally mandated 20 per cent education allocation must be used exclusively for core educational components such as students, teachers, and infrastructure.

Governor KDM to Permanently Close 5 Limestone Factories in West Bandung Over Violations

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has ordered the permanent closure of five limestone processing plants in West Bandung Regency following an investigation that uncovered labour and environmental violations. The remaining 13 factories in the area have been ordered to shut temporarily to address environmental damage caused by their operations. The provincial government has pledged to absorb the displaced workers into public works roles at a higher salary.

IDX Suspends 72 Companies for Late Q1 2026 Financial Reports, Here's the List

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has suspended trading in shares of 72 listed companies for failing to submit their interim financial reports for the period ending 31 March 2026. The sanctions, effective from 30 July 2026, include four new suspensions, while the remaining 68 companies had their existing suspensions extended. The move enforces capital market disclosure rules, with firms facing a Written Warning III and a Rp150 million fine before trading is halted.

Who is Setya Budi Dias Oktavianto? Former KPK Leadership Aide Named Suspect in Pemalang Regent Extortion Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro and one of its own employees, Setya Budi Dias Oktavianto, as suspects in a corruption case. The investigation is divided into two clusters: the Regent's alleged extortion related to job auctions and infrastructure projects, and the KPK employee's alleged extortion of the Regent regarding case management. Setya Budi Dias Oktavianto is a former police officer and aide to a previous KPK leadership who was caught in a sting operation.

Student Murderer in Gomong Arrested, Motive Behind the Heinous Act Revealed

Police in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, have arrested an 18-year-old suspect in connection with the murder of a female university student in her boarding room. The suspect, identified as HP, was tracked down through the victim's modified motorcycle. He confessed to smothering the victim with a pillow after she woke up and screamed when he broke in to steal her vehicle keys.

Industry Minister Agus Reveals EV Incentives to Prioritise National Brand Cars

Minister of Industry Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita has stated that electric vehicle incentives will be prioritised for national brand cars as part of efforts to strengthen the domestic automotive industry. The government has not yet detailed the scheme, including the definition of a 'national brand' or whether foreign manufacturers operating in Indonesia will be included. The initiative is part of the 2027 Macroeconomic Framework, aiming to reduce import dependency and improve the trade balance.

Indonesia and Europe Strengthen Cooperation, Target Sustainable Transport Investment

Indonesia and European partners are deepening collaboration to advance sustainable transport development through investment, technology transfer, and low-carbon infrastructure. The partnership, framed under the EU's Global Gateway strategy, aims to translate dialogue into long-term business opportunities and climate-resilient mobility systems. A key example cited is the Surabaya Regional Railway Line project, which has secured €236 million in initial funding from Germany's KfW Development Bank for modernisation and electrification.

Global Insurance Premium Rates Continue to Fall, What Is the Impact on Indonesia?

Global commercial insurance rates have declined for the eighth consecutive quarter, with Marsh's Q2 2026 index showing a 6% drop driven by high insurer profitability and abundant capacity. While property and cyber rates are falling globally, the trend presents both opportunities and challenges for the Indonesian market, including pressure on domestic pricing and a shift in competition towards broader coverage and service quality.

Indonesia promotes World Mangrove Center at ASEAN forestry forum

Indonesia has promoted its World Mangrove Center initiative at the 21st ASEAN Senior Officials on Forestry meeting, positioning it as a hub for global collaboration on sustainable mangrove management. The center, to be based in Bali, aims to connect science, policy, financing, and field implementation to accelerate mangrove conservation and rehabilitation. Indonesia also reaffirmed its support for the ASEAN Mangrove Network and highlighted the vital role of mangroves in climate change mitigation and coastal community livelihoods.

East Java Governor and PPPA Minister Launch 'Perisai Anak' Digital Child Protection Movement

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa and Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Arifatul Choiri Fauzi have launched the 'Perisai Anak' (Child Shield) movement to protect children in the digital space. The initiative aims to build a safe and healthy digital ecosystem through five main pillars, including regulatory strengthening, digital literacy, and cross-sector collaboration. The programme is a response to the high internet penetration among children and the growing threats of cyberbullying, online sexual exploitation, and digital crimes.

Ministry to Issue New Regulation Strengthening Distance Education

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is preparing a new ministerial regulation to replace the outdated 2014 rules governing Distance Education (PJJ). The new regulation aims to firmly establish PJJ as a formal education alternative with qualifications equivalent to regular schools, rather than a supplementary service. It will also expand access to include the children of Indonesian migrant workers and diplomats who face accessibility constraints.

Home Affairs Minister: Local Governments Must Streamline Budgets Before Requesting Additional Funds

Minister of Home Affairs Tito Karnavian has insisted that regional governments must first identify and implement internal budget efficiencies before seeking additional funds from the central government. He cited recent interventions in East Nusa Tenggara and Tidore, where operational spending reviews and the release of outstanding revenue-sharing funds resolved payroll issues for government workers. The minister warned that the government will be cautious to ensure local administrations do not become complacent, expecting top-ups without first optimising their own budgets.

Prabowo Shifts Development Paradigm Towards People-Centred Economy, Says Expert

An expert from the Indonesian Indigenous Entrepreneurs Association (Asprindo) claims President Prabowo Subianto's administration is shifting the national development paradigm from large-scale infrastructure to people-centred economic growth. The policy focuses on strengthening local economies, empowering small entrepreneurs, and implementing programmes like village cooperatives and nutritional improvement. The association also encourages a re-evaluation of the historical stigma surrounding the term 'pribumi' (indigenous) in the business context.

Unair Research: BPA in Refillable Gallons Linked to Allergy Risk

A study by Universitas Airlangga's Faculty of Public Health has found a statistically significant link between Bisphenol A (BPA) in bottled water and an increased risk of allergies in adults. The research, published in 2025, highlights that long-term exposure to the chemical, commonly found in polycarbonate plastic gallons, may disrupt the immune system. Researchers are calling for stricter quality control of food packaging and further studies to mitigate potential health risks.

Reo Tree Falls on MBG Vehicle and Motorcycle in Sikka, One Resident Injured

A large Reo tree fell onto a vehicle transporting Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) and a motorcycle on the Waiara-Kloangrotat-Aibura road in Sikka Regency, injuring one motorcyclist. The incident occurred on Thursday morning, causing significant damage to both vehicles. Police and local residents cleared the debris, and authorities have warned against any attempts to extort passing motorists at the scene.

BSI Offers KPR with 2.75% Margin at Danantara Housing Expo 2026

Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) will offer home financing with margins starting from 2.75% at the Danantara Housing Expo 2026. The state-owned Islamic bank is also providing low down payments and long tenors to support affordable home ownership, particularly for millennials and low-income families. The initiative reinforces BSI's role in supporting the government's inclusive national housing programme.

Prabowo Jokes with Journalist Receiving Subsidised Mortgage: 'Don't Spread Hoaxes'

President Prabowo Subianto engaged directly with recipients of subsidised mortgages during a mass contract signing event in Batang, Central Java. The event involved 62,000 debtors, including a journalist from Tomohon, North Sulawesi, whom Prabowo jokingly urged not to spread false information. The programme is part of the government's ongoing effort to reduce the housing backlog through the Housing Financing Liquidity Facility scheme.

Deputy Minister of Human Rights Inaugurates 188 Human Rights Activists for 'Human Rights Villages'

Deputy Minister of Human Rights Mugiyanto has inaugurated 188 Human Rights Activists tasked with implementing the 'Human Rights Village' programme across Indonesia. The activists will serve as frontline facilitators in 200 target villages for 2026, focusing on embedding principles of justice, equality, and non-discrimination into local development. The ministry also launched an integrated digital platform to enable transparent reporting on the fulfilment of citizens' basic rights.

Regional Heads Struggle to Pay PPPK Salaries, Dasco: System to Be Overhauled to Prevent Staff Accumulation

Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad has announced that the government and the House of Representatives will restructure the management of government employees with work agreements (PPPK) following complaints from regional heads about the fiscal burden of their salaries. The reform aims to prevent the accumulation of new PPPK staff, particularly after local elections, which strains regional budgets.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Holds Milfest to Boost Literacy and Quranic Education

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs launched the Muharam Islamic Literacy Festival (Milfest) in Ciawi, Bogor, aiming to foster a culture of critical thinking and literacy beyond basic reading and writing. The event, running from 30 July to 2 August 2026, features book fairs, seminars, health services, and an SME bazaar to support community economic empowerment. The festival is part of the Islamic New Year 1448 Hijriah commemorations and aligns with the minister's directive for programmes to deliver tangible public benefits.

BMKG Predicts Rainy Season to Arrive in November

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) forecasts the rainy season will begin expanding across the country in November 2026. The peak of the dry season is expected to persist in most regions throughout August and September. The agency also noted that the El Niño phenomenon is predicted to continue until early 2027, though its impact on Indonesia is expected to diminish by mid-October.

Odoo Indonesia Expands Office at BSD City's Biomedical Campus to Strengthen Digital Ecosystem

Belgian enterprise software provider Odoo has expanded its Indonesian operations with a new office at BSD City's Biomedical Campus, reflecting the country's booming digital economy. The company has grown from four employees in 2023 to over 200 professionals, serving more than 45,000 enterprise users. The expansion aims to attract top digital talent and support the development of locally relevant features, including integrations with major Indonesian marketplaces and payment systems.

Myanmar Junta's Airstrikes on Rakhine Kill Pregnant Woman and Worsen Civilian Crisis

The Myanmar military has intensified airstrikes on civilian areas in Rakhine State, killing at least three people including a pregnant woman and injuring 27 others. The attacks, which targeted the townships of Ponnagyun and Thandwe as well as the popular Ngapali Beach, are seen as retaliation for the junta's territorial losses to the Arakan Army. The ethnic armed group now controls most of the state, leaving the regime clinging to coastal strongholds.

Three ATM Skimming Suspects in South Tangerang Had Specific Roles, Carried Sharp Weapons

Police have revealed the modus operandi of three suspects arrested for ATM skimming at a hospital in Pamulang, South Tangerang. The suspects, identified as AN, IRA, and MH, divided tasks including jamming the machines, offering assistance to victims, and acting as lookouts. They were apprehended by members of the public after their attempt failed, and were found to be carrying sharp weapons during the crime.

UMJ Selects 1,400 International Applicants from 44 Countries

Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta (UMJ) is screening 1,400 international applicants from 44 countries for the 2026 academic year, with only 40 places available. The university is prioritising master's degree candidates to accelerate research output and global academic collaboration. UMJ's vice rector stated the high level of interest reflects the institution's growing international reputation and commitment to multicultural academic excellence.

BKPM Addresses Stalled Mineral Exports, Pushes for Domestic Rare Earth Processing

The Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) has urged the development of domestic rare earth element (LTJ) processing, emphasising the government's commitment to resolving investment hurdles. This follows reports of mineral exports being held up due to a regulatory vacuum regarding permissible LTJ content, with the Presidential Chief of Staff warning law enforcement against obstructing trade without clear legal grounds.

Dasco Hears Kindergarten Teachers' Aspirations, Early Childhood Education Strengthening on DPR Agenda

House Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad met with the Indonesian Kindergarten Teachers Association (IGTKI-PGRI) to discuss improving the welfare and professional status of the nation's 350,000 kindergarten teachers. The association called for the mass appointment of private teachers as government employees (PPPK) and the expansion of the inpassing salary equalisation programme. The House of Representatives reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening early childhood education as a foundation for the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision.

Prabowo Targets All Vehicles in Indonesia to Be Electric-Powered

President Prabowo Subianto has announced a target for all vehicles in Indonesia to be powered by electricity in the future. Speaking at the revitalisation of Semarang Tawang Station, he emphasised the shift towards green and renewable energy for all modes of transport, including trucks, buses, cars, and motorcycles. He also highlighted the role of railways in economic democratisation and revealed plans to develop the Trans-Sumatra and Trans-Kalimantan railway lines.

Hacker in East Java Sells Hundreds of School and Government Websites for Online Gambling Promotion

East Java Police have arrested a hacker who compromised and sold access to hundreds of Indonesian school, university, and government websites. The perpetrator exploited security vulnerabilities to steal network traffic and redirect visitors to online gambling sites, selling the compromised access for as little as IDR 1 million to boost search engine ratings for illegal gambling platforms.

Indonesian Shipbuilding Industry Ready to Build National Fleet Following Prabowo's Directive

The Indonesian Shipbuilding and Offshore Industry Association (Iperindo) has expressed its readiness to support the development of a national fleet, responding to President Prabowo Subianto's concerns about the dominance of foreign-flagged vessels in the country's export and import activities. Iperindo Chairwoman Anita Puji Utami stated that domestic shipyards have the capacity to build up to 1,200 new vessels annually and can produce various ship components locally. The association is urging the government to provide supportive policies, including low-interest financing and fiscal incentives, to reduce dependency on foreign shipping and strengthen maritime sovereignty.

Kafispolgama Distributes Rp75 Million Donation for Sumatra Flood Victim Recovery

The Gadjah Mada University Social and Political Sciences Alumni Family (Kafispolgama) has donated Rp75 million to aid recovery efforts for flood victims in Sumatra. The funds were symbolically handed over to the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) in Jakarta, with Rp50 million allocated for Aceh and Rp25 million for North Sumatra. The organisation hopes the assistance will help affected residents return to normal life following the late 2025 disaster.

Son of a Construction Worker Graduates Top of His Class at IPDN, Receives Kartika Astha Brata Award

Aji Bayu Ramadhan, the son of a construction worker from a disadvantaged region in East Nusa Tenggara, has graduated as the best student of the Institute of Domestic Governance (IPDN) Class XXXIII. He was awarded the prestigious Kartika Astha Brata and was officially inaugurated as a Young Civil Servant by President Prabowo Subianto. His journey highlights the accessibility of state-funded education and the transparent selection process at IPDN, which allowed him to overcome economic hardship and limited access to information.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Expands Market for 11 Assisted SMEs at Indonesia Fashion Week 2026

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga is showcasing 11 of its assisted small and medium enterprises (SMEs) at Indonesia Fashion Week 2026 in Jakarta. The initiative aims to boost the competitiveness and market access of these businesses, with three SMEs also presenting their collections on the runway. The programme is part of the company's community development efforts to foster sustainable economic growth and promote Indonesian cultural heritage.

Attorney General's Office Examines Tan Kian and Ferry Boboho in Former Jampidsus Febrie Case, Who Are They?

Investigators from the Indonesian Attorney General's Office have questioned businessmen Tan Kian and Ferry Hongkiriwang, also known as Boboho, as witnesses in a corruption and money laundering case involving former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah. The case originated from police investigations into alleged corruption related to coal supply for power plants, which caused blackouts, and the handling of a case at state insurer ASABRI. Febrie, who has been named a suspect, previously denied receiving any money from Tan Kian, who is linked to the SCBD area in Jakarta.

IDX Suspends 72 Companies Including Sinar Mas and Indofarma Units Over Late Filings

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has temporarily suspended trading in the shares of 72 listed companies. The sanctions were imposed because the firms failed to submit their interim financial reports for the period ending 31 March 2026 and/or did not pay the associated fines. Notable suspended entities include PT Sinar Mas Multiartha Tbk and PT Indofarma Tbk.

BMKG warns El Niño may persist until early 2027

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has forecast that the El Niño phenomenon could last until the first quarter of 2027, potentially reaching strong intensity. The agency warns this will likely prolong the dry season and increase the risk of forest and land fires, with thousands of hotspots already detected. Cross-agency coordination, including cloud seeding operations, is being intensified to mitigate drought and fire risks.

Family of Security Guard Murdered at Jatiluhur Reservoir Receives BPJS Employment Compensation

The family of Sumarna, a security guard found dead at Jatiluhur Reservoir, has received compensation totalling Rp418.13 million from BPJS Ketenagakerjaan. The benefits include a work accident death payout, old-age savings, a monthly pension, and educational scholarships for his two children. The Purwakarta Regent praised the swift delivery of social security protection, while police continue to investigate the circumstances of the death.

President Prabowo Trials Nusantara Explorer Train to Batang

President Prabowo Subianto tested the new Nusantara Explorer train service from Semarang to Batang, highlighting the government's commitment to modernising public transport and boosting tourism. The journey preceded a strategic event in Batang where the President was scheduled to oversee a mass housing finance contract signing. The programme involves 62,000 subsidised mortgage units and housing microcredit worth IDR 880 billion, aimed at expanding access to affordable housing for low-income communities.

UK Invests £7 Trillion to Build Sixth-Generation Air Force, Russia Seen as Primary Threat

The United Kingdom is accelerating the transformation of the Royal Air Force into Europe's first sixth-generation air force, backed by a £300 million investment in a new autonomous collaborative combat aircraft programme. The initiative, part of a broader £31 billion allocation for air and space domains, includes the development of the Brontanax drone and the multinational Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) with Italy and Japan, which recently welcomed Canada as an observer. The modernisation drive is framed as a direct response to the growing threat posed by Russia.

House Reveals 2 Solutions to Resolve Nickel Export Dispute Amid Rare Earth Metal Impasse

The Indonesian House of Representatives has disclosed two government strategies to resolve the temporary halt in nickel exports caused by regulatory uncertainty over rare earth metal (LTJ) content. The Energy Ministry is working on a short-term fix to resume exports while simultaneously drafting clearer regulations to prevent future disruptions. The Presidential Staff Office previously noted that the absence of clear rules on LTJ content had led to differing interpretations among businesses and law enforcement, triggering the export bottleneck.

BRI Insurance Pays Rp365.5 Million Claim for Flood-Damaged Villa in Lombok

BRI Insurance has disbursed a Property All Risks claim worth Rp365.5 million to the owner of Villa Yuli Homestay in Kuta, Central Lombok, following flood damage. The payment was presented directly by the company's Mataram office head and is intended to help the business recover. The insurer emphasised its commitment to fast, transparent claims processing, while the policyholder praised the swift and helpful service.

Chip War Heats Up as China Fears Drag Down South Korean Tech Giants

Shares of South Korean chipmakers Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix suffered sharp declines, dragging the KOSPI index down by over 10%. The sell-off was triggered by investor concerns over the financing of AI infrastructure and reports that Chinese companies are accelerating the development of domestic semiconductor equipment, potentially intensifying competition in the memory chip market.

56 Insurance Companies Honoured at Investortrust Best Insurance Award 2026

Investortrust has recognised 56 insurance and reinsurance companies at its 2026 Best Insurance Award ceremony in Jakarta. The awards, based on financial performance and risk management from 2021-2025, honoured leaders across life, general, and reinsurance sectors, including PT Prudential Life Assurance and PT Asuransi Astra. Special awards were also given for excellence in specific areas such as asset growth, investment management, and technical underwriting.

120 Indonesian Nickel Vessels Unable to Sail, Here's Why

At least 120 commodity vessels are stranded in Indonesian ports due to new obligations to test for rare earth elements (LTJ), according to the Indonesian Nickel Industry Forum. Industry leaders warn the lack of clear technical guidelines on LTJ content limits is causing significant losses for both businesses and the government. They are urging the government to review the technical implementation of the regulation and provide clear parameters to resolve the uncertainty.

Paradaya Movement Trains Underprivileged Citizens, Secures Jobs in Footwear Industry

The Paradaya Movement, a collaboration between Rumah Amal Salman and Ruang Amal Indonesia, has successfully trained 50 underprivileged individuals in shoe manufacturing, with 82% securing employment. The initiative, supported by ParagonCorp, focuses on productive zakat utilisation to create sustainable economic independence. Graduates have been placed in factories in Batang, Central Java, including PT Wide Hero, marking a significant step in linking vocational training with industrial labour demands.

Sumedang ensures targeted CPPD distribution through tiered verification

The Sumedang Regency government is implementing a tiered verification process to ensure its Regional Government Food Reserves (CPPD) reach the intended vulnerable groups. The mechanism involves checks from the village to the district level to guarantee transparency and accountability. This initiative aims to support food access and social protection for the 8.81 percent of the population living below the poverty line.

Indonesia Faces Wave of Layoffs, Manpower Minister Responds

Indonesia recorded 32,389 layoffs in the first half of 2026, with West Java reporting the highest number. Manpower Minister Yassierli stated the government verifies each report and seeks solutions before concluding a layoff is inevitable. The government is also ensuring workers' rights are met, including access to the Job Loss Insurance (JKP) programme if dismissals cannot be avoided.

Government Intensifies Weather Modification to Prevent Forest Fires and Drought

The Indonesian government is ramping up cloud seeding operations across several strategic regions to mitigate the risk of forest and land fires and drought linked to the El Niño phenomenon. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) is prioritising areas needing higher rainfall to maintain soil moisture and replenish reservoirs. Operations are currently underway in Pekanbaru and Palangkaraya, with a total of 17 projects completed so far this year.

House Urges Government to Disburse Revenue-Sharing Funds to Resolve P3K Salary Issues

The House of Representatives has called on the central government to expedite the disbursement of underpaid Revenue-Sharing Funds (DBH) to regional administrations struggling to pay civil servant salaries, particularly for contract-based government employees (P3K). The move aims to alleviate fiscal constraints faced by several local governments despite maximum efficiency measures. Coordination between the Home Affairs and Finance Ministries is underway to ensure the funds are channelled to regions with genuine budgetary shortfalls.

Agriculture Minister Responds to Controversy Over Rice Milling Company's Rp 2 Trillion Revenue

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has clarified that the alleged Rp 2 trillion monthly revenue of a rice milling company is not a normal business profit but an estimate of consumer fraud. The minister explained the figure stems from the sale of substandard rice labelled as premium, with government tests revealing 86% of sampled premium rice failed to meet quality standards. The findings, which suggest potential public losses of up to Rp 99 trillion annually, have been referred to the Food Task Force for legal action.

Gunungkidul's Water Dropping Budget Only Sufficient Until September

The Gunungkidul Regency Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has allocated Rp 346 million for its 2026 water dropping programme, an increase from last year's Rp 300 million, but the funds are expected to run out by mid-September. The budget covers approximately 800 tanks of clean water, of which 160 have already been distributed to several sub-districts. Once the allocation is exhausted, the agency plans to access the regional unexpected expenditure fund to continue providing relief to drought-affected communities.

Constitutional Court Rules Free Nutritious Meals Programme Cannot Use Education Budget from 2028

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has partially granted a judicial review, ruling that the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme must have its own dedicated budget line separate from the education budget by the 2028 state budget at the latest. The court deemed the programme's broad health and stunting reduction goals warrant a distinct allocation rather than being classified under operational education spending. The current use of the education budget for MBG is permitted to continue for the 2026 fiscal year.

Jambi Police Housing Complex Engulfed in Flames on Thursday Afternoon

A major fire destroyed eight housing units at a police residential complex behind the Jambi Regional Police Headquarters on Thursday. Strong winds caused the flames to spread rapidly, prompting a large-scale response from city firefighters and police personnel. Authorities have confirmed no fatalities, though material losses are being assessed as investigations into the cause continue.

Barantin and BPJPH Integrate Data to Strengthen Export-Import Oversight

Indonesia's quarantine agency (Barantin) and halal product assurance body (BPJPH) have signed a cooperation agreement to integrate data, aiming to bolster the supervision of export and import commodities. The initiative seeks to ensure both health and halal compliance for goods entering and leaving the country. Officials stated that despite the enhanced checks, the integration is designed to accelerate trade services rather than slow them down.

Only One Official Malioboro Street Sign Exists, Others Are Illegal

The Yogyakarta city government has clarified that only one official 'Malioboro' street sign exists, installed by the transportation agency, while others used by freelance photographers are illegal. This follows viral complaints from tourists about individuals charging fees for photos with private signs. Authorities plan to regulate the area and have identified four permanent official sign locations to guide visitors.

Ministry of Industry Reveals Cause of 1,500 Layoff Threat in Central Java Garment Sector, Not Due to Import Surge

Indonesia's Ministry of Industry has clarified that the potential layoff of 1,500 workers at two garment factories in Central Java is due to declining export orders, not an influx of imported goods. The affected companies, PT Victory Apparel and PT Samwon, operate in bonded zones and rely entirely on international business-to-business demand. The ministry confirmed the situation stems from internal financial pressures linked to reduced overseas purchases.

Prabowo calls rail transport key to economic democracy

President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised the strategic importance of rail transport as a tool for economic democratisation, particularly for low-income citizens, during the inauguration of the revitalised Semarang Tawang Station. He argued that national railway operations must prioritise public service over corporate profit to foster nationwide economic equality. The President also cautioned against focusing solely on high-speed rail at the expense of smaller regional networks, calling for a holistic development approach that balances modernisation with equitable access.

Jember's Homecare Programme Provides 'Family Doctor' for Residents

The Jember Regency Government in East Java has launched a pioneering Homecare programme, claiming to be the only region in Indonesia offering such a service. The initiative deploys 50 medical vehicles and 1,000 health workers to provide free in-home treatment for the extreme poor, elderly living alone, and those with disabilities. Officials aim to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates and accelerate stunting reduction through this integrated telemedicine-supported scheme.

Cirebon Deploys 'Housewife Squads' to Chase Vehicle Tax Evaders

The Cirebon City Government has recruited local housewives as 'pursuing officers' to track down tens of thousands of vehicle tax evaders in a bid to boost local revenue. The initiative targets over 35,000 vehicles with more than five years of unpaid tax, with the persuasive skills of the women seen as key to softening the resolve of defaulters. The programme is a collaboration with the West Java Revenue Agency to increase the city's share of motor vehicle and transfer taxes.

Three ATM Skimmers Arrested After Attempting to Flee in Pamulang

Police in South Tangerang have arrested three men suspected of tampering with ATMs at a hospital in Pamulang. The suspects allegedly jammed the card slots of three machines to disrupt transactions. They attempted to flee during the arrest, prompting officers to take firm action to stop them.

Prabowo Urges Indonesia to Abandon Zinc Roofing, Return to Traditional Materials Like Ijuk and Rumbai

President Prabowo Subianto has called for a shift away from zinc and asbestos building materials in Indonesia, citing serious health risks and a loss of cultural aesthetics. Speaking at the revitalisation of Semarang Tawang Station, he advocated for a return to traditional materials such as clay tiles, ijuk fibre, and rumbai thatch. The president also urged regional leaders to prioritise environmental preservation and cleanliness.

United Tractors Revenue Falls to IDR 58.3 Trillion in First Half of 2026, Net Profit Plunges 48 Percent

PT United Tractors Tbk (UNTR) reported a 15 percent decline in net revenue to IDR 58.3 trillion for the first half of 2026, driven by lower gold sales and a weaker heavy equipment segment. The company's net profit nearly halved, dropping 48 percent to IDR 4.3 trillion, excluding non-recurring items. A temporary operational halt at the Martabe gold mine and lower national coal production allocations were cited as key factors behind the downturn.

Lamandau Regency and Agrinas to Optimise Land Management

The Lamandau Regency administration in Central Kalimantan is collaborating with state-owned PT Agrinas Palma Nusantara to develop approximately 27,000 hectares of land reclaimed from a forest area enforcement programme. The initiative aims to create local employment and boost regional economic growth, with the regent emphasising priority for local workers and partnerships with educational institutions.

Two Tankers Attempt Passage, Fail; Iran Declares: 'Strait of Hormuz is Our Territory!'

Iran's Revolutionary Guard has claimed two oil tankers attempting to transit the Strait of Hormuz with US support were forced to turn back after one caught fire. The incident underscores Tehran's assertion of control over the strategic waterway, which it insists must be navigated under Iranian direction and with payment of fees. The standoff occurs amid escalating military tensions following a new wave of US airstrikes on Iranian targets.

Police Reveal How They Tracked Down Unram Student's Killer

Police in Mataram have disclosed the investigation that led to the arrest of an 18-year-old man suspected of murdering a female university student. The breakthrough came after officers traced the victim's stolen motorcycle to the suspect, a known recidivist. The victim, Nadya Dwi Ramadhany, was found dead in her locked boarding room in May, with her phone and motorbike missing.

President Prabowo Calls for Increased Investment in National Railways

President Prabowo Subianto has urged state-owned railway company PT KAI to significantly boost investment in the nation's railway infrastructure. Speaking at the inauguration of the renovated Semarang Tawang Station, he highlighted the urgent need to address thousands of unguarded level crossings to improve safety. The President emphasised the railway's crucial role as an affordable public service for lower-income citizens and as an instrument for economic democracy.

Indonesia and Albania Sign MoU on Migrant Worker Placement and Protection

Indonesia has signed a memorandum of understanding with Albania to expand overseas employment opportunities and strengthen protections for Indonesian migrant workers. The agreement, which follows President Prabowo Subianto's visit to Albania last year, aims to ensure more coordinated and effective management of Indonesian workers in the Balkan nation. The government is also pushing its SMK Go Global programme to place 40,000 prospective migrant workers in formal, safe employment abroad this year.

Amid Febrie Adriansyah Case, Police Anti-Corruption Chief Visits AGO: What's Behind It?

The head of the Indonesian National Police's Corruption Eradication Corps, Inspector General Totok Suharyanto, visited the Attorney General's Office amidst the ongoing investigation into former senior prosecutor Febrie Adriansyah. Officials stated the visit was purely a courtesy call to strengthen inter-agency ties with the new Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes. Febrie Adriansyah was recently detained by the AGO on money laundering charges and is being held at the KPK detention centre for security and transparency reasons.

Distressing: Worker in Cilegon Racks Up Billions in Debt Due to Online Gambling, Gets Sacked

A factory worker in Cilegon, Banten, was dismissed after accumulating billions of rupiah in debt from online gambling and illegal loans, prompting police and labour unions to issue urgent warnings. The worker's creditors repeatedly contacted the employer, disrupting operations and leading to termination. Authorities are now conducting digital literacy campaigns to educate workers on the dangers of cybercrime, online gambling, and illegal lending.

Customs and Excise Sector Contributes Rp 152 Trillion to State Coffers by First Half of 2026

Indonesia's customs and excise sector collected Rp 152 trillion in the first half of 2026, contributing 45.2 per cent of total state revenue. The growth was driven by increased excise from tobacco and alcoholic beverages, alongside higher import duties on raw materials. The directorate general also intensified enforcement, seizing 904 million illegal cigarettes and 4.27 tonnes of narcotics.

Jakarta Governor Pramono Authorises Cloud Seeding as Capital Faces Three-Week Dry Spell

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has authorised the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) to conduct weather modification operations to induce rain, as the capital and its surrounding areas endure nearly three weeks without rainfall. The move marks a shift from the typical use of cloud seeding to divert rain, now deploying it to mitigate potential drought conditions. While no regions in Jakarta are officially classified as drought-affected, the administration is coordinating with the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) to prepare mitigation measures.

APKASI Proposes Salary Adjustment for Regional Heads: Responsibilities Increasingly Heavy

The Association of Indonesian District Governments (APKASI) has urged the central government to revise regulations on the financial rights of regional heads, arguing that current remuneration has not been adjusted for 26 years. APKASI Chairman Bursah Zarnubi highlighted the growing complexity of regional leadership, including managing conflicts in forestry and mining, and called for revisions to Government Regulations No. 69/2010 and No. 109/2000. The association also requested an end to budget cuts in 2027 to allow regions to accelerate infrastructure development and support national strategic projects.

Delivery of US attack submarines delayed until 2038

The delivery of nine next-generation Virginia-class attack submarines for the US Navy has been postponed, with the first unit now expected no earlier than April 2035 and the final vessel by July 2038. The delay, attributed to shipyard construction backlogs, means the US military faces a 127-month build time per submarine. A long-term deal for the Block VI boats was approved after Pentagon acquisition chief Michael Duffey informed Congress the contract could save approximately $2.4 billion.

Dasco Joins Commission II and Regional Governments to Discuss Remuneration and Revenue-Sharing Fate

The House of Representatives' Commission II held an urgent hearing during recess with regional leaders and the Home Affairs Minister to address key fiscal issues. The meeting, attended by Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, focused on the remuneration of regional heads, the systematics of revenue-sharing funds, and increasing locally generated revenue. The session follows a recent meeting between the Association of Indonesian Regency Governments and the DPR leadership.

Indonesia seeks to enhance digital partnership with Switzerland

Indonesia has expressed a strong desire to deepen its digital partnership with Switzerland, building on over 70 years of bilateral relations. Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid highlighted Switzerland's strategic role as a hub for global digital diplomacy and multilateral forums. The government is open to exploring innovation opportunities to broaden bilateral cooperation in the digital sector.

Industry Minister Says EV Incentives Will Prioritise National Brand Cars

The Indonesian government plans to prioritise electric vehicle incentives for national car brands as part of efforts to strengthen the domestic automotive industry. Details remain unclear, including the definition of a 'national brand' and whether foreign manufacturers producing locally will also benefit. The initiative is part of a broader industrialisation agenda aimed at reducing import dependency and boosting local supply chains.

Three ATM Skimming Suspects Shot by Police After Resisting Arrest in South Tangerang

Police in Pamulang, South Tangerang, shot three men who resisted arrest during a raid on an ATM skimming operation at a local hospital. The suspects, identified as AN, IRA, and MH, were apprehended after a lengthy surveillance operation prompted by numerous reports of customers losing money. Officers used 'measured firm action' after the trio attempted to flee and fought back during the citizen-assisted capture.

KPK Staffer Leaked Case Info to Father to Extort Pemalang Regent

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named one of its own administrative staff, Setya Budi Dias Oktavianto, as a suspect for leaking case information to his father. The father, Lilik Budi Suprianto, allegedly used the confidential details to extort Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro for Rp 2 billion. The regent, in turn, is accused of extorting his subordinates to raise the funds, highlighting a complex chain of corruption within the local government.

President Prabowo Raises Performance Allowances for TNI and Defence Ministry Personnel

President Prabowo Subianto has officially increased performance allowances for Indonesian Military (TNI) soldiers and Defence Ministry employees, ending an eight-year wait for adjustments. The new rates, effective under recently signed presidential regulations, see the lowest class allowance rise to Rp2.5 million. The government stated the increase is a form of appreciation for bureaucratic reform achievements and the growing burden of duties.

bank bjb Expands Business Reach Through Partnership with Yayasan Adi Upaya

Bank bjb has signed a strategic partnership with Yayasan Adi Upaya, a foundation under the auspices of the Indonesian Air Force, to expand its financial services within the education and health sectors. The collaboration includes credit facilities, payroll services, and other banking products for institutions and personnel under the foundation's network. This move aims to strengthen financial inclusion and support the growth of the foundation's ecosystem.

33,785 Participants Complete KDKMP Training, 61 Withdraw

A total of 33,785 participants have completed the initial training phase for the Red and White Village Cooperative (KDKMP) and Fishermen's Village programme, according to the Ministry of Defence. Sixty-one individuals withdrew, primarily due to health reasons or a decision to return to their previous professions. Approximately 40 pregnant participants will be offered a place in the next training wave.

Constitutional Court: Free Nutritious Meal Programme Must No Longer Use Education Budget by 2028 at the Latest

The Constitutional Court has ruled that the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme must be decoupled from the national education budget by the 2028 fiscal year. The court determined that the programme does not constitute a core component of education and should not be funded through the mandatory 20 per cent education allocation.

Reason Why Little Aresha Foundation Chairman's Son Remains in Australia After Missing Two Summons

The son of the Little Aresha Daycare Foundation chairman has failed to comply with two police summonses, citing his wife's pregnancy in Australia as the reason for not returning to Indonesia. Police have already questioned the chairman's daughter, who claims her mother misused her identity to appoint her as the foundation's treasurer. The case involves allegations of inhumane treatment of children at the Yogyakarta daycare, with the total number of suspects now standing at 32.

These 15 Ministries and Agencies Hold the Largest Account Balances

As the 2025 fiscal year closes, audited reports reveal that several Indonesian ministries and agencies still hold substantial funds in their accounts, with the Ministry of Public Works topping the list at Rp7.65 trillion. The National Food Agency and the Ministry of Agriculture follow with Rp7.28 trillion and Rp6.52 trillion respectively. The data highlights the concentration of year-end cash holdings, though officials caution that large balances do not necessarily indicate inefficiency due to varying programme characteristics and disbursement mechanisms.

Prabowo Urges KAI to Boost Railway Investment and Public Service

President Prabowo Subianto has called on state-owned railway operator PT KAI to significantly increase investment in the sector, particularly to improve safety at thousands of level crossings. Speaking at the inauguration of the renovated Semarang Tawang Station, he stressed that railways must serve as an efficient public service for lower-income groups rather than being purely profit-oriented. He also urged the company to develop a comprehensive railway system that extends to smaller cities.

Perum Jasa Tirta 2 Clarifies CCTV Coverage in Jatiluhur Dam Security Guard Murder Case

Perum Jasa Tirta 2 has refuted claims by police and the West Java Governor that there were no CCTV cameras near the location where security guard Sumarna was found dead at Jatiluhur Dam. The state-owned enterprise confirmed 27 cameras are installed across the strategic site, though the specific incident location was outside their range. The case remains under active police investigation, with support from the Purwakarta Regent.

Madina Regent: PRSU a Showcase for Regional Culture and Tourism

Mandailing Natal Regent Saipullah Nasution stated that the North Sumatra Fair (PRSU) serves as a vital platform for promoting the region's natural wealth, culture, and tourism potential. The annual event provides an opportunity for local governments to introduce their flagship products and attract investment. The 50th PRSU, themed 'Harmoni Emas', runs from 3 July to 2 August 2026.

Barantin Chief Says Non-Halal Products Can Enter Indonesia with Correct Labelling

The head of Indonesia's Quarantine Agency (Barantin) has clarified that non-halal products are not banned from entering the country, provided they are accurately labelled. Abdul Kadir Karding stated that the joint oversight with the Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) aims to ensure documentation matches the actual goods, not to prohibit imports. The policy is intended to protect consumers by guaranteeing transparency regarding product contents.

DPR: Free Nutritious Meal Programme Success Must Be Measured with Valid Indicators

A senior lawmaker has urged the government to use scientifically valid nutritional indicators, such as stunting and wasting rates, to evaluate the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. Commission IX Deputy Chairman Charles Honoris warned against relying on indirect socio-economic surveys, stressing that the multi-trillion rupiah initiative requires objective, data-driven assessment. He called for transparency from the Health Ministry regarding the methodology used to measure the programme's impact on public nutrition.

MPR: Human Trafficking a Betrayal of the Constitution and Humanity

Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Lestari Moerdijat has labelled human trafficking as a betrayal of Indonesia's constitution and humanity, calling for a stronger state response. She highlighted the crime's evolution into digital exploitation, including forced online scams, and noted that even highly educated individuals are falling victim. Moerdijat urged a revision of the 2007 anti-trafficking law to address digital-age challenges and strengthen victim protection.

DPR Urges Government to Resolve Nickel and Rare Earth Export Deadlock

Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) has called for an inter-agency meeting to resolve the stalled exports of mineral commodities like nickel, citing a lack of clear regulations on rare earth elements (LTJ) as the root cause. Industry associations argue that LTJ content in processed bauxite and other ores is negligible, and the current legal uncertainty is disrupting the economic cycle and deterring business activity.

US Dollar Strengthens, Rupiah Closes Weaker at Rp18,075/US$

The Indonesian rupiah weakened against the US dollar on Thursday, closing at Rp18,075 per dollar as the greenback rebounded in global markets. The dollar's recovery was driven by safe-haven demand amid renewed US-Iran tensions, overshadowing the Federal Reserve's decision to hold interest rates steady. Market uncertainty was further fuelled by a split vote within the Fed and a lack of forward guidance on future rate moves.

Microsoft Revenue Rises 18 Percent in Q4

Microsoft reported an 18 percent year-on-year increase in quarterly revenue to $90 billion for the fourth quarter of its 2026 fiscal year. The company's net profit surged 31 percent to $35.8 billion, driven by strong performance in cloud and AI services. CEO Satya Nadella highlighted that Azure revenue surpassed $100 billion for the first time and Microsoft 365 Copilot reached over 30 million paid users.

KPK Reveals Bupati of Pemalang Arranged Bribery Case and Position Trading

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has disclosed that the Bupati of Pemalang, Anom Widiyantoro, allegedly orchestrated a scheme involving project bribes and the buying and selling of positions. The case also implicates a police officer assigned to the KPK's administrative staff, who is suspected of facilitating the handling of a corruption case against the Bupati. The investigation has led to the detention of four suspects, including the Bupati, as the KPK traces illicit payments totalling nearly Rp2 billion.

Agriculture Minister Explains How Food Mafia Defrauds Consumers

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has clarified that President Prabowo Subianto's mention of a rice milling company earning Rp 2 trillion per month refers to alleged consumer fraud, not profit. Laboratory tests on 212 premium rice brands revealed that 86% failed to meet quality standards, with broken grain content far exceeding the legal limit. The government estimates this practice causes annual consumer losses of around Rp 98 trillion and has referred the findings to the police's Food Task Force for legal action.

BMKG Begins Weather Modification to Anticipate Forest Fires During Dry Season

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has launched cloud seeding operations across several regions to mitigate forest and land fires during the dry season. The operations, which have been conducted in Aceh, Palembang, Pekanbaru, and Central Kalimantan, aim to increase rainfall by manipulating existing cloud formations. The agency is also using the technique to replenish water levels in key reservoirs, including Lake Toba and Lake Poso, amid an El Niño weather pattern.

Baznas RI Wins Top Brand Award for Fifth Consecutive Year

Indonesia's National Alms Agency (Baznas) has secured the Top Brand Award for the fifth year running, achieving the highest Top Brand Index of 43 percent in the zakat and charity category. The award underscores Baznas's position as the most trusted institution for managing Islamic alms in the country. The agency attributed the success to the collective efforts of its staff, volunteers, and the trust of its donors.

Constitutional Court Rules Free Nutritious Meal Budget Must Be Separated from Education Fund by 2028

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has partially granted a judicial review, ordering the government to separate the budget for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme from the national education fund. The court ruled that while the 2026 state budget allocation remains constitutional, the programme must have its own distinct budget line starting in the 2028 fiscal year. The decision follows a lawsuit arguing that using education funds for the programme reduced fiscal space for improving teacher quality and school infrastructure.

SNT: A New Hope for Honorary Teachers and Quality Education

A new government initiative, the Integrated National School (SNT), offers hope for addressing Indonesia's stark educational inequality. Data reveals that only 4% of sub-districts have both quality junior and senior high schools, highlighting a significant gap between educational aspirations and reality. The programme is framed not just as a technical fix but as a crucial national investment in human capital and long-term economic growth.

Judicial Commission Receives 1,402 Reports of Alleged Ethical Violations by Judges up to June 2026

Indonesia's Judicial Commission (KY) has received 1,402 reports of alleged ethical misconduct by judges in the first half of 2026, highlighting persistent public concern over judicial integrity. Of the registered cases, 121 judges have been recommended for sanctions, with the most common violation being procedural law breaches. The findings underscore ongoing challenges in upholding the Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct for Judges (KEPPH) within the country's judiciary.

E-commerce Giant Shein Reveals FTC Investigation, Warns of Financial Impact

Fast-fashion behemoth Shein has disclosed it is under investigation by the US Federal Trade Commission, marking the first public acknowledgement of the probe. The company warned potential investors that the outcome could result in significant monetary payments, materially affecting its financial health. The investigation comes amid broader regulatory scrutiny of 'dark pattern' tactics designed to manipulate consumer behaviour online.

Can Gold Without Certificates Be Sold? Understand the Rules and Risks

Selling gold without a certificate is possible but depends on the buyer's policy, with some institutions refusing such transactions outright. While certain shops may accept uncertified gold after thorough verification, sellers should expect a potentially lower price and a longer process. Possessing the original certificate significantly simplifies and expedites the sale.

Indonesia and Albania Expand Migrant Worker Market Through SMK Go Global Programme

Indonesia and Albania have signed a memorandum of understanding to expand the placement and protection of Indonesian migrant workers, focusing on skilled labour under the SMK Go Global programme. The agreement aims to facilitate the deployment of vocational school graduates into formal, non-domestic sectors in Albania. The partnership also reinforces bilateral commitment to safeguarding Indonesian workers throughout the migration process.

Victims of Human Trafficking Seeking LPSK Protection Rise Since 2024, West Java Highest

The Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) has recorded a rising trend in protection requests for human trafficking (TPPO) cases since 2024. Data shows 576 applications in 2024, with West Java as the highest source region, followed by East Nusa Tenggara. The agency notes the figures are fluctuating but predicts further increases, with legal assistance and restitution being the most sought-after services.

How the Ministry of Finance Encourages Investment and Business Growth

Indonesia's Ministry of Finance is driving investment and business growth through supportive fiscal policies, strategic state budget (APBN) management, and digital transformation. These measures aim to create a stable and competitive business climate, reduce operational costs, and attract both domestic and foreign investors. The initiatives are part of a broader effort to ensure sustainable national economic development.

Rieke Diah Pitaloka Urges Police Not to Scapegoat in Jatiluhur Security Guard Murder Case

House of Representatives member Rieke Diah Pitaloka visited the family of Sumarna, a security guard murdered at Jatiluhur Reservoir, and urged Purwakarta Police to avoid scapegoating in their investigation. She also called on the state-owned water management company Perum Jasa Tirta 2 to improve security at the nationally vital site to prevent future tragedies. The victim's family has received compensation of Rp418.1 million from the social security agency for workers.

Alert! US Launches Large-Scale Attack on Iran, Lasting Two Hours

The United States military has conducted a large-scale air assault on dozens of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps targets in Iran, destroying command centres and drone facilities. The two-hour operation was a retaliation for an Iranian ballistic missile attack on US forces in Jordan, with the conflict further escalating across Iraq and Egypt. The ongoing instability, including a battle for control of the Strait of Hormuz, has caused global crude oil prices to surge past US$90 per barrel.

BI Malang Accelerates MSME Upgrading Through Sapta Rona Pesona 2026

Bank Indonesia's Malang office is promoting the upgrading of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through its flagship Sapta Rona Pesona 2026 event. The initiative aims to boost economic inclusivity and digital transactions across seven regions, capitalising on solid regional economic growth that outpaced both provincial and national figures in the first quarter of 2026. BI officials emphasised that corporatisation, capacity building, and financing access are key strategic pillars to elevate MSMEs, which form the backbone of the national economy.

12 Regional Heads Caught in Sting Operations Throughout 2026, Here's the Home Affairs Minister's Response

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has reported the surge in sting operations (OTT) ensnaring regional heads to President Prabowo Subianto, who has pledged full support for anti-corruption enforcement. The Ministry is preparing a bureaucratic capacity-building scheme with the KPK to address the vulnerability of regional leaders, often stemming from diverse professional backgrounds. A total of 12 regional heads have been arrested by the KPK in 2026, with the latest being the Regent of Pemalang for alleged bribery related to positions and projects.

Indonesia and UK Strengthen Cooperation, Explore Economic and Investment Potential

Indonesia and the United Kingdom are deepening economic ties, with discussions focusing on the implementation of a new growth partnership and Indonesia's bid to join a major trans-Pacific trade pact. Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto met with the UK Trade Commissioner for Asia Pacific to explore strategic collaboration in sectors including energy, investment, and human resources. The UK reaffirmed its support for Indonesia's accession to the CPTPP, viewing it as a boost to the agreement's relevance in the Indo-Pacific region.

Chinese AI firms rush to list on mainland and Hong Kong bourses despite profitability concerns

A wave of Chinese artificial intelligence companies, including large language model startups, are pursuing public listings in Shanghai and Hong Kong, attracting massive retail oversubscription and soaring debut share prices. The rush for fresh capital is driven by a fiercely competitive environment and supportive government policy, even though most firms remain unprofitable. Analysts caution that while a bubble may not have formed yet, the disconnect between high valuations and a lack of solid earnings will eventually test investor sentiment.

A Week On, Case of Debt Collectors Damaging House in Jeblog, Bantul Remains Unresolved

Police in Bantul, Yogyakarta, are still investigating a case where a group of debt collectors allegedly ransacked a house in Jeblog, with no significant progress reported a week after the incident. The homeowner filed a police report after the group targeted his residence over his brother's car loan arrears, an event he says traumatised his child and hospitalised his father. Authorities have confirmed the investigation is ongoing but have declined to provide further details.

Tana Toraja Principal Bans Hijab, MUI Calls It a Human Rights Violation

The South Sulawesi branch of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has condemned a state school principal's ban on female Muslim students wearing the hijab, labelling it a human rights violation. The principal of SMP Negeri 2 Bonggakaradeng in Tana Toraja claimed the prohibition was a joke and has since apologised. The MUI emphasised that religious freedom is a constitutional right and that the hijab is a religious obligation for Muslim women.

Profiles of the 5 Expert Council Members for Hoegeng Awards 2026

The Hoegeng Awards 2026 ceremony will take place tomorrow evening, honouring five exemplary police officers. The expert council responsible for selecting the recipients comprises prominent figures from Indonesia's legal, human rights, and civil society sectors. The panel includes the Chairman of House Commission III, a former acting KPK leader, and the National Coordinator of the Gusdurian Network.

Two Gianyar Villages Named Transparent Villages by Bali KIP 2026

Sidan and Bona villages in Gianyar, Bali, have been selected among the top 16 transparent villages by the Bali Provincial Information Commission (KIP) for their implementation of public information disclosure. The recognition is based on evaluations conducted between 2023 and 2025, with Sidan scoring 96 and Bona scoring 90.05. The initiative aims to encourage more villages to adopt open and accountable governance in line with national transparency laws.

NHM Plants Mangroves, Strengthens ESG Commitment in North Halmahera

PT Nusa Halmahera Minerals (NHM) has partnered with the North Halmahera government to plant mangroves in the Kao Village Essential Ecosystem Area, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. The initiative, which commemorated World Mangrove Day 2026, aims to enhance carbon sequestration, prevent coastal abrasion, and support local economic empowerment through the Green Kaidati community. Officials highlighted the high ecological value of the Kao mangrove area, noting its capacity to store significantly more carbon than tropical forests and its role as a critical habitat for biodiversity.

East Kalimantan Accelerates Investment, MBTK SEZ Strengthens Infrastructure and Connectivity

The East Kalimantan provincial government is developing the Maloy Batuta Trans Kalimantan Special Economic Zone (KEK MBTK) as a new economic growth centre, focusing on industry, logistics, and resource-based exports. The zone has secured investment commitments worth IDR 10 trillion for CPO bulking stations and warehousing facilities. National downstreaming policies and the new capital city (IKN) are key drivers positioning the SEZ as a prime investment destination.

Serang and Situbondo Sign MoU to Launch Anyer-Panarukan Festival

The regencies of Serang in Banten and Situbondo in East Java have signed a memorandum of understanding to revitalise the historic Anyer-Panarukan route. The collaboration aims to transform the colonial-era road into a corridor for historical tourism and creative economy development. A festival is planned as the initial step to boost local economies and promote the route's cultural heritage.

Russia Warns Its Existence Is at Stake, Calls Ukraine Conflict a 'Matter of Life and Death'

Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of Russia's Security Council, has declared that the country's survival depends on achieving absolute victory in Ukraine, accusing the West of using Kyiv as a 'battering ram' to destroy Russia. President Vladimir Putin separately told lawmakers that Western sanctions have failed and that Russia's political system is ready to repel any external hostility.

Security forces on standby outside Constitutional Court ahead of protest over MBG budget ruling

Police have been deployed outside Indonesia's Constitutional Court in Jakarta as student groups and civil society coalitions prepare to stage a solidarity protest. The demonstrators are rallying to safeguard the court's judicial review decision concerning the allocation of the 2026 state education budget for the Free Nutritious Meal programme. The area remained quiet ahead of the scheduled start, with only officers and street vendors present.

Indonesia Seeks to Balance AI Growth with Creator Rights in Copyright Bill

The Indonesian government is working to ensure the Copyright Bill provides legal certainty for creators while accommodating the development of artificial intelligence. Deputy Minister Nezar Patria stated the government recognises the concerns of publishers and creative industries regarding the use of their works as AI training data. The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs is providing input to the Ministry of Law to formulate provisions that protect the economic rights of copyright holders and sustain the national creative industry.

Barantin: Non-Halal Products Allowed Entry with Clear Labelling

Indonesia's quarantine agency confirms that non-halal products can still enter the country provided they are accurately labelled. The policy aims to ensure consumer information transparency rather than impose a blanket ban. The statement follows a collaboration agreement between Barantin and the Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) to strengthen oversight and prevent document fraud.

MP Encourages Hidayatullah Students to Become Faith-Based Entrepreneurs

House of Representatives member Hendry Munief has urged students at Hidayatullah Islamic Boarding School in Pekanbaru to develop entrepreneurial skills grounded in Islamic values. He emphasised that combining technological mastery with the school's tauhid-based education can foster economic independence and benefit the wider community. The Hidayatullah network, which operates around 600 branches nationwide, already manages various business units as part of its community empowerment mission.

Doctor Shortage Prompts Youth to Propose Selling Puskesmas Bolo

A youth and student alliance in Bima staged a protest at Puskesmas Bolo over a critical shortage of doctors, sarcastically suggesting the facility be sold. The health centre is currently operating with only one general practitioner, forcing the temporary diversion of some services to the regional hospital. The group has urged the District Health Office to immediately resolve the staffing crisis.

Judicial Commission: Judges' Ethics Violations Up 100 Percent Compared to Last Year

Indonesia's Judicial Commission (KY) has reported a significant surge in ethical violations by judges in the first half of 2026, with 121 judges found in breach compared to 49 in the same period last year. The commission has recommended sanctions ranging from written reprimands to dishonourable discharge, with nine judges proposed for dismissal. The majority of violations involved procedural law, including case administration errors and manipulation of court rulings.

Water, the Source of Life That Must Be Protected

Despite covering 71 percent of the Earth's surface, accessible clean water is extremely limited, with only a fraction of the 3 percent freshwater readily available for human use. The article highlights the growing crisis of water scarcity driven by population growth, pollution, and climate change, stressing that its preservation is a collective responsibility. It calls for simple daily habits such as wise usage, reducing chemical pollutants, and proper waste disposal to ensure the sustainability of this vital resource for future generations.

UB and Unram Donate Wave Detection Device to Awang Community

Universitas Brawijaya and Universitas Mataram have donated a wave height detection device to the coastal community of Awang in Central Lombok to strengthen disaster mitigation. The area is historically vulnerable to tsunamis and tidal flooding, with a major tsunami striking in 1977. The programme also includes training for residents to operate and maintain the equipment independently as part of a community-based early warning system.

KPK Sting Operation in Pemalang: DPRD Had Repeatedly Issued Warnings

The Corruption Eradication Commission's (KPK) recent sting operation targeting the Pemalang regency government has confirmed long-standing concerns raised by the local parliament. A DPRD member revealed that the council had repeatedly warned the executive branch about governance risks, particularly regarding honorary staff policies and outsourcing schemes. The operation, which resulted in the seizure of over Rp2 billion in cash, has led to the detention of several officials, including the regent, on suspicion of project corruption and the buying and selling of positions.

Ministry Warns Human Trafficking Networks Exploit Digital Tech, Making Detection Harder

The Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection has warned that human trafficking syndicates are increasingly using sophisticated digital technology to recruit and exploit victims. Deputy Desy Andriani stated that perpetrators now utilise social media, messaging apps, and online job platforms for recruitment, advertising, and financial transactions, blurring the lines between cyber and physical crime. The public is urged to be more selective regarding job and education offers received through digital platforms.

Will Joint US-Saudi Strikes Cause Oil Prices to Soar?

Joint US-Saudi airstrikes targeting pro-Iran militias in Iraq have heightened tensions in the Middle East, causing global oil prices to surge. Brent crude futures jumped 7.9% to US$90.74 per barrel, raising concerns about the potential impact on Asian and Indonesian markets.

Attorney General's Team 9 Examines Tan Kian in Febrie TPPU Case

The Attorney General's special 'Team 9' has examined businessman Tan Kian as a witness in a money laundering case involving former senior prosecutor Febrie Adriansyah. The investigation is linked to the discovery of 74 kilograms of gold and Rp543 billion in cash. Febrie is also a suspect in three other corruption cases, including those related to PT Krakatau Steel and a PLN coal procurement project.

Industry Minister: Success of Industrial Estates Measured by Occupancy Rates

Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita has stated that the success of industrial estates should be gauged by their occupancy levels and ability to attract investment, rather than the sheer number of new estates. He urged estate managers to transform into comprehensive industrial ecosystems that facilitate production, supply chains, and green energy transitions. The minister highlighted that manufacturing remains the backbone of the Indonesian economy, contributing over 19 percent to GDP and absorbing more than 20 million workers.

DPR to Overhaul PPPK Governance Amid Regional Budget Complaints

The House of Representatives (DPR) plans to restructure the governance of government employees with work agreements (PPPK) following discussions with ministers and regional heads. The move responds to budget complaints from local leaders, with 39 districts and cities identified as needing central government financial assistance for civil servant salaries. The DPR aims to ensure central-regional relations remain stable and that government activities continue to deliver economic and welfare benefits.

VinFast Promotes EV Ecosystem Support at GIIAS 2026

Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer VinFast is showcasing its comprehensive 'Drive Worry Free' ecosystem at the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2026. The initiative includes resale value guarantees, free charging, and lifetime battery warranty to ease ownership concerns. The company also plans to expand its V-GREEN charging network across Indonesia.

Bank Mandiri Disburses Rp21.41 Trillion in KUR Loans as of End-June 2026

Bank Mandiri has channelled Rp21.41 trillion in people's business credit (KUR) as of 30 June 2026, reaching 52.21% of its annual target. The state-owned bank's lending has reached over 162,000 micro, small, and medium enterprises, with the agricultural sector receiving the largest share. The bank is also supporting the government's housing programme and strengthening its ecosystem-based financing strategy.

BNI's Reporting of KUR Case in Jember Demonstrates Banking Transparency

A public policy analyst has praised Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) for reporting an alleged misappropriation of its small business loans (KUR) in Jember to law enforcement, calling it a sign of strong commitment to transparency and accountability. The bank has also dismissed internal staff suspected of involvement and strengthened its credit analysis and monitoring systems. The case, initially reported by BNI in 2024, is now under investigation by the authorities.

Indikator Denies Releasing July 2026 Electability Survey

Polling agency Indikator Politik Indonesia has disavowed a document circulating on social media that purports to be its July 2026 national survey. The agency's director stated the report, which includes electability figures and approval ratings, was never officially published. The disputed document contained assessments of President Prabowo Subianto's administration and early projections for the 2029 presidential election.

Prabowo: Railway Station Revitalisation to Boost Tourism and National Transformation

President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised that the revitalisation of hundreds of train stations by PT KAI is a vital part of national transformation, serving not only to improve public facilities but also to attract tourists. He noted that preserving historic stations can draw both domestic and international visitors interested in history and culture. The President also called for enhanced cleanliness and environmental aesthetics as part of the broader infrastructure improvements.

LPSK: Human Trafficking Prevention Must Start at the Village Level

Indonesia's Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) has called for a shift in strategy against human trafficking, emphasising that prevention must begin in villages where most victims originate. The agency highlighted that traffickers are increasingly using digital platforms and artificial intelligence to recruit victims, making early detection and education at the grassroots level crucial.

BRIN initiates blue circular economy for Merah Putih Fishermen's Village

The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has proposed a blue circular economy model for the Merah Putih Fishermen's Village to tackle coastal waste and create new economic value. The concept aims to transform problematic waste, such as plastic, organic fishery discards, and abandoned fishing gear, into valuable commodities like chitosan and animal feed. Researchers argue that diversifying income through waste processing is more sustainable than pressuring fishermen to increase catches amid declining marine resources.

President Prabowo Inaugurates Revitalized Semarang Tawang Station, Eyes Trans-Sumatra Railway

President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated the first phase of renovations to the cultural heritage building at Semarang Tawang Station, completed over 240 days. He emphasised the need for ambitious railway development to match Indonesia's vast geography and economic potential, urging a broader vision beyond short-term planning. The President also expressed his hope for the future launch of the Trans-Sumatra Railway project.

Albania Opens Doors for Skilled Indonesian Workers

Indonesia and Albania have signed a memorandum of understanding on migrant worker protection, paving the way for skilled Indonesians to work in Albania. The agreement aims to meet Albania's demand for skilled labour while ensuring safe, controlled, and ethical employment. Both nations plan to hold technical meetings soon to match jobs and business sectors, with worker placements expected in the near future.

Video: Nixon Napitupulu and BTN's Strategy to Realise 3 Million Affordable Homes

Bank BTN is leveraging its decades-long experience in mortgage lending to support the government's ambitious target of building three million homes. The state-owned bank is streamlining its business processes through digitalisation to disburse mortgages within three to five days. Challenges remain regarding the speed of housing supply and permit processing, which are crucial to meeting the bank's target of financing 300,000 to 350,000 units.

BAZNAS Wins Top Brand Award for Zakat and Charity Category for Fifth Consecutive Year

Indonesia's National Zakat Agency (BAZNAS) has secured the Top Brand Award in the zakat and charity category for the fifth year running, achieving the highest index score of 43 percent. The award underscores BAZNAS's position as a trusted institution for managing Islamic alms. BAZNAS leadership attributed the achievement to the collective efforts of its management, volunteers, and the trust of its donors.

Judicial Commission Finds Indications of Ethical Violations by Judges in Andrie Yunus and Nadiem Cases

Indonesia's Judicial Commission (KY) has confirmed it is investigating suspected ethical breaches by judges handling cases involving Andrie Yunus and Nadiem Makarim. The probe remains in the monitoring and clarification stage, with the commission examining multiple alleged violation points. The KY has stated it cannot yet provide a timeline for concluding the investigation, as it depends on the availability of witnesses and involved parties.

Police Arrest Suspect in Murder of Woman at West Jakarta Boarding House

Police have arrested a man suspected of murdering a 52-year-old woman at a boarding house in Grogol Petamburan, West Jakarta. The suspect was apprehended in South Jakarta hours after the victim's body was discovered. Authorities believe the killing stemmed from a dispute and have seized a hammer and other evidence.

NTT Provincial and Central Governments Finalise Preparations for PON 2028

The East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) provincial government and central government are advancing preparations for the 2028 National Sports Week (PON) and the 2026 National Special Olympics Week (PESONAS). Officials emphasised that the events are not just sporting competitions but catalysts for accelerating human development, national unity, and regional economic growth. Coordination across ministries is ongoing to ensure transparent governance and long-term benefits for the host region.

Superbank Posts Profit, but Retained Deficit Remains Substantial

Digital bank Superbank reported a net profit of Rp182.3 billion in the first half of 2026, a nearly ninefold increase year-on-year. Despite the surge in earnings, the bank still carries a retained loss deficit of Rp663.5 billion from previous years. The lender's aggressive expansion saw credit disbursement and total assets grow significantly, though investors will be watching the sustainability of asset quality and profitability.

BRIN Highlights Importance of Targeted Social Engineering in Fishermen's Village Programme

Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has cautioned that the success of the Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih (KNMP) programme depends on sensitive social engineering, not just physical infrastructure. Researchers warn that deeply rooted patron-client relationships between fishermen and middlemen cannot be severed by modern facilities alone. A hybrid governance model is proposed, integrating existing local power structures to ensure the programme's effectiveness.

Inaugurating Semarang Tawang Station Restoration, Prabowo Recalls Sukarno's Habit

President Prabowo Subianto has officially inaugurated the first phase of restoration works at the heritage-listed Semarang Tawang Station in Central Java. He highlighted the station's historical significance, noting it was frequently used by Indonesia's first president, Sukarno, for state duties during the early independence period. The project, completed over 240 days by PT KAI, aims to restore the 1914 building's original facade as designed by Dutch architect Sloth-Blauwboer.

Ministry Strengthens Distance Learning to Reduce Number of Out-of-School Children

Indonesia's Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is expanding distance learning programmes to address the persistently high number of out-of-school children, which remains around 4 million. The ministry notes that the figure has not significantly decreased in the past five to six years, with over half of these children having never attended school. A pilot programme involving 132 educational units is being prepared this year, with plans for a nationwide rollout next year if successful.

Prabowo Wants All Vehicles in Indonesia to Be Electric-Powered

President Prabowo Subianto has announced plans for all modes of transport in Indonesia to eventually transition to electric power as part of a broader push for green and renewable energy. The policy direction encompasses everything from trains to trucks, buses, cars, and motorcycles. He made the remarks while inaugurating the first phase of renovations at the heritage Semarang Tawang Station, emphasising that railway revitalisation also supports tourism and national transformation.

New Industrial Estates See 65 Percent Occupancy. What Are the Obstacles?

Indonesia's industrial estate occupancy hovers around 60–65 percent, with expansion plans stalled by bureaucratic hurdles and a lack of alignment between central and regional governments. Industry leaders are urging the swift passage of the Industrial Estates Bill to accelerate investment realisation. The Minister of Industry has indicated the government aims to finalise the legislation within two to three quarters.

Judicial Commission Reveals Preliminary Allegations of Ethics Violations by Judges in Nadiem and Andrie Yunus Cases

Indonesia's Judicial Commission (KY) has announced preliminary findings of ethical violations by judges handling the cases of former minister Nadiem Makarim and activist Andrie Yunus. The commission is currently conducting further assessment and investigation into the two separate cases. Final conclusions will be determined at a plenary forum after additional facts are clarified.

Banten ready to welcome China's data center and AI investments

Banten's provincial government has declared its readiness to host Chinese investments in data centres and artificial intelligence, citing reliable electricity and water resources. Officials highlighted that the initiative aligns with President Prabowo's downstreaming priorities and is expected to create significant employment. Investor interest has surged, with several companies eyeing strategic locations across the province, though developing a skilled local technology workforce remains a key challenge.

Gerindra to Review Survey Results on Public Satisfaction with Prabowo

The Gerindra Party has stated it will study a recent SMRC survey showing a significant drop in public satisfaction with President Prabowo Subianto's performance, from 81.2 per cent in November 2025 to 51.1 per cent in July 2026. Party executive Sufmi Dasco Ahmad said the findings would be compiled as input for government evaluation. The survey attributes the decline to negative public sentiment regarding economic conditions, politics, and law enforcement.

Woman Found Dead in West Jakarta Was Murdered by Husband, Suspect Arrested

A 52-year-old woman found dead with head injuries in a West Jakarta boarding house was murdered by her husband, who has since been arrested. The suspect allegedly struck the victim with a hammer during a dispute in his rented room. Police have secured multiple pieces of evidence and are continuing their investigation to ensure legal certainty.

Fond of Spicy Food? Study Reveals Chilli Can Relieve Pain

A recent study published in Physiology & Behavior suggests that consuming spicy food may help alleviate intense physical pain. Researchers found that holding chilli-infused gelatine in the mouth reduced the severity of reactions to high-intensity laser heat on the hand. The effect is attributed to capsaicin, the active component in chillies, which interacts with pain receptors in the body.

AGO Examines Property Tycoons Tan Kian and Ferry Boboho in Febrie Adriansyah Money Laundering Case

The Attorney General's Office has summoned prominent property tycoons Tan Kian and Ferry Boboho as witnesses in the money laundering investigation involving former senior prosecutor Febrie Adriansyah. The examination is part of efforts to trace the flow of funds in the case. Adriansyah was formally detained last week and is being held at the Corruption Eradication Commission detention centre for transparency and his own protection.

Prabowo Arrives in Batang to Inspect Subsidised Housing for Residents

President Prabowo Subianto visited Batang Regency, Central Java, to personally inspect subsidised housing units and attend a mass mortgage signing event. The event marked the handover of 62,000 subsidised homes under the government's FLPP scheme, aimed at expanding homeownership for low-income communities. The programme is part of a broader target to build 3 million houses, with over 107,000 units already distributed as of July 2026.

Identities of Suspects Besides Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro Revealed by KPK

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has disclosed the identities of three additional suspects arrested alongside Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro in a recent sting operation. The suspects include a businessman acting as the regent's confidant, another private sector figure, and a KPK administrative staff member. All four individuals have been detained for an initial 20-day period as investigations into the alleged extortion case continue.

House Deputy Speaker Questions Data on 112 Million Indonesians Suffering from Malnutrition

A senior lawmaker has challenged the Health Minister's claim that 112 million Indonesians are malnourished, demanding clarity on the methodology used. Charles Honoris argued that the socio-economic survey cited is not designed to directly measure nutritional status. He urged the government to use dedicated health surveys for evaluating the flagship free nutritious meal programme.

Customs and BNN Discover 2 Kg of Methamphetamine in Passenger's Suitcase at Jambi Airport

Customs officers and the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) in Jambi thwarted an attempt to smuggle two kilogrammes of crystal methamphetamine through Sultan Thaha Airport. The suspect, who initially fled, was later apprehended at a hotel and admitted to transporting the drugs from Aceh to Lombok. The successful operation highlights inter-agency cooperation in combating drug trafficking.

Inspiring! Son of a Labourer from NTT Graduates as IPDN's Best Student

Aji Bayu Ramadhan, the son of a construction worker from a disadvantaged region in East Nusa Tenggara, has been named the best graduate of the Institute of Home Affairs Governance (IPDN). Overcoming limited access to information in his remote area, he successfully navigated the transparent online selection process. He was officially inaugurated as a Young Civil Service Officer by President Prabowo Subianto.

Indonesia in a State of Emergency Over Nickel Export Governance, Industry Already Bleeding

Indonesian mineral export governance is under intense scrutiny as shipments of nickel, tin, and bauxite face delays due to additional checks for rare earth elements. Industry leaders warn of a regulatory vacuum causing severe disruption, with over 120 surveyor reports stalled and vessels held up. The situation is compounded by geopolitical pressures and rising production costs, prompting urgent calls for government intervention.

Tanjungpinang City Government Educates Residents on 'Love Scamming' Modus Operandi

The Tanjungpinang city government is intensifying digital literacy campaigns to warn residents about 'love scamming', a cybercrime that has caused both financial loss and psychological trauma locally. Recent cases in the city involved a cancelled wedding and extortion through threats to disseminate private photographs. Authorities are urging victims to report incidents to law enforcement and are promoting awareness of the ITE Law and the potential misuse of artificial intelligence in creating fake identities.

Minister: Investment competition now between industrial estates, not countries

Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita stated that global investment competition has shifted from country-to-country to between industrial estates. He urged Indonesian industrial estate managers to transform into 'investment enablers' by providing speed, certainty, and integrated ecosystems. Agus highlighted that factors like fast permitting, adequate infrastructure, and renewable energy availability are now critical to attracting manufacturers who are rapidly comparing specific zones across nations.

KPK Seizes Rp2.7 Billion in Cash During Arrest of Pemalang Regent

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized evidence worth Rp2.7 billion following a sting operation that ensnared Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro. The anti-graft agency detailed the cash and assets recovered from multiple locations during the 18th such operation of 2026. The case involves two clusters of alleged corruption, including the buying and selling of positions and project manipulation within the Pemalang district government.

Once Swarmed by Young People, This Profession Is Now Extinct, Replaced by Machines

The profession of university admissions consultant in China, once a booming industry serving millions of families, is rapidly declining as free AI chatbots take over. With around 10 million students facing critical university and major selections after the Gaokao, tech giants like Alibaba and Tencent are providing tools that generate detailed recommendations in minutes. While the shift democratises access to guidance, experts caution that AI is not flawless and may not fully replace the nuanced support of human counsellors.

Indonesia strengthens villages against human trafficking

The Indonesian government is intensifying efforts to combat human trafficking by empowering villages through prevention and economic development programmes. The Village Ministry is collaborating with other agencies to educate communities and ensure safe, legal migration procedures for residents seeking work abroad. These initiatives align with President Prabowo Subianto's vision to make villages central to national development and reduce economic pressures that drive unsafe migration.

Deputy Minister for National Development Planning Reaffirms Commitment to Accelerating Papua's Development

Deputy Minister Febrian Alphyanto Ruddyard has pledged more intensive assistance for local governments across Papua to align regional programmes with national development priorities. The commitment includes forming an optimisation team to help resolve implementation obstacles without overriding local authority. He stressed that every rupiah of development funding, including special autonomy funds, must be managed accountably to address persistent challenges in health, education, and basic infrastructure.

Steel Architectural Awards ASEAN 2026 Advances Design Excellence Through Regional Collaboration

The Steel Architectural Awards ASEAN 2026, organised by NS BlueScope, has expanded its regional partnerships to promote innovation and sustainability in architecture using coated steel. The competition invites architects from Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam to submit projects under the theme 'Timeless Design with Coated Steel', with winners gaining international exposure and a learning visit to Australia. The programme underscores the role of durable materials in creating climate-responsive buildings and strengthens professional collaboration across the ASEAN design community.

Albania Seeks Skilled Workers from Indonesia

Indonesia and Albania have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen cooperation on the placement and protection of Indonesian migrant workers. The agreement, signed in Jakarta, aims to facilitate the deployment of skilled and professional Indonesian workers to the European nation. This initiative aligns with Indonesia's policy shift towards sending higher-skilled workers abroad and follows a previous state visit by President Prabowo Subianto.

Prabowo sets one-year deadline to clean up Indonesia's waste problem

President Prabowo Subianto has announced an ambitious one-year target to resolve Indonesia's waste crisis, demanding that all rivers and waterways be cleared. He emphasised that environmental cleanliness and forest protection are essential for boosting the national tourism sector. The President also called on regional leaders to preserve nature and prevent illegal logging, even suggesting the planting of hundreds of millions of new trees.

KPK Staffer Leaks Case Info to Father, Used to Extort Pemalang Regent

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named one of its own administrative staff, Setya Budi Dias Oktavianto, as a suspect for leaking case information. The leaked details were used by his father, Lilik Budi Suprianto, to extort Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro by promising to resolve the regent's legal troubles. The KPK has confirmed that the staffer will face criminal proceedings and potential ethical sanctions from its Supervisory Board.

Riau Police Chief Distributes Ketinting Boat Engines to Inhil Fishermen in Merah Putih Expedition

Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan has distributed 20 ketinting boat engines to fishermen in Concong District, Indragiri Hilir Regency, as part of the 'Ekspedisi Merah Putih Presisi' programme. The initiative, which runs until 17 August 2026 to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, aims to demonstrate the police force's presence and support for communities in the outermost, disadvantaged, and frontier (3T) regions. The programme also includes dialogue sessions, mangrove planting to prevent coastal abrasion, and collaboration with students and environmental activists across 17 locations in Riau Province.

President Prabowo Calls for 'Gentengisasi' to Replace Zinc Roofs, Boost Health and Aesthetics

President Prabowo Subianto has launched a national programme called 'gentengisasi' to replace corrugated zinc and asbestos roofs with traditional clay tiles. He argued that zinc roofs rust and pose health risks, while also detracting from Indonesia's aesthetic appeal, which is crucial for tourism. The President also urged regional leaders to prioritise environmental cleanliness and the maintenance of public buildings.

President Prabowo Pushes for Roof Tile Replacement Programme, Citing Health and Aesthetics

President Prabowo Subianto has urged Indonesians to replace corrugated iron and asbestos roofing with traditional clay tiles, citing both public health risks and the need to improve the nation's aesthetic appeal for tourism. Speaking in Semarang, he linked the use of metal and asbestos roofing to respiratory diseases, including lung cancer in non-smokers. The initiative forms part of a broader directive for regional leaders to enhance environmental cleanliness and urban beauty.

Blood Dripping to Lower Floor Reveals Woman's Body in West Jakarta Boarding House

The body of a woman was discovered in a boarding house in Grogol Petamburan, West Jakarta, after a witness noticed blood dripping from the upper floor. Police are investigating the cause of death, which involved a head injury, and are awaiting autopsy results while searching for the victim's husband.

Bekasi Regency DPRD Member Named Suspect in Assault Case

Police have named a member of the Bekasi Regency Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD) and two others as suspects in an assault that occurred at a restaurant in South Cikarang last October. The case file has been declared complete and handed over to prosecutors, with the police emphasising their commitment to impartial law enforcement. The victim reported being beaten by a group after questioning why the council member's driver was staring at him.

KY Says Two Bribery-Convicted Judges in Central Java to Still Receive Pensions After Dismissal

The Judicial Commission (KY) has revealed that two Central Java High Court judges found guilty of accepting bribes will be dishonourably discharged but will retain their pension rights. The rulings were made during a series of seven Honour Council of Judges (MKH) sessions held in the first half of 2026. Other judges faced sanctions ranging from permanent dismissal to non-judicial roles for offences including bribery, child abandonment, adultery, and assault.

Police Arrest Three ATM Skimming Suspects at Pamulang Hospital

Police in South Tangerang have arrested three men suspected of tampering with cash machines at a hospital in Pamulang. The suspects allegedly jammed the card slots of three ATMs to disrupt transactions and facilitate theft. Authorities are investigating their roles and possible involvement in similar crimes.

Deputy Minister: 2026 Patriot Expedition to Strengthen Commodity Governance in 53 Transmigration Areas

The Indonesian Ministry of Transmigration is deploying 1,476 academics and graduates to 53 transmigration areas in 2026 to enhance the governance of key commodities like coffee, cocoa, and durian. The Patriot Expedition aims to build on previous research by implementing technical innovations and creating integrated management systems from cultivation to market access. The initiative is projected to significantly boost economic productivity and potentially generate up to Rp120 trillion in new export value annually.

Complete: The Number and Value of Danantara Shares in 52 State-Owned Enterprises

The Indonesian government has transferred its Series B and/or C shares in 52 state-owned enterprises to the Danantara operational holding company, with the total value reaching Rp1,030.28 trillion. The largest transfers involved energy and infrastructure giants Pertamina, PLN, and Hutama Karya. This move consolidates state assets under the newly launched investment management body while the government retains special rights through Series A Dwiwarna shares.

Central Lombok Chief Prosecutor Putri Ayu Wulandari Transferred to Kulon Progo

The Chief Prosecutor of Central Lombok, Putri Ayu Wulandari, has been transferred to Kulon Progo, Yogyakarta, following a decree from the Attorney General's Office. During her tenure, she led the office to be named the best in West Nusa Tenggara in 2025 and strengthened restorative justice programmes. Her successor, Bayu Novrian Dinata, is expected to continue these initiatives and enhance cooperation with local government and law enforcement agencies.

Zionists Who Hate Jews: Book Argues Ideology Has Long Harmed the People It Claims to Protect

A new book by Joss Sheldon argues that Zionism has historically denigrated and harmed Jewish people, challenging the premise that the ideology serves their interests. The work cites prominent historians to claim that Zionist leaders often held antisemitic views and allied with antisemites. It contends that Zionism and antisemitism have operated in tandem, with the denigration of diaspora Jews used to fuel the project for a 'Jewish state'.

Following Malaysia's Lead, Hospitals Accelerate Robotic Surgery Adoption

Indonesia's Ministry of Health is pushing for the rapid adoption of robotic surgery to improve medical precision, as the country lags behind regional neighbours like Malaysia. Hospital executives acknowledge the urgent need to address rising metabolic and malignant diseases but cite high investment costs as a major barrier. The discussion highlights the government's broader digital transformation strategy for healthcare services.

Regent Speaks Out as Drought Grips Gunungkidul

Gunungkidul Regent Endah Subekti Kuntariningsih has ordered the acceleration of clean water distribution as drought intensifies across the region. The local government is deploying funds from sub-district budgets, the disaster mitigation agency, and unexpected expenditure reserves to prevent delays in the response. Officials are also partnering with Baznas to install 5,000-litre water storage tanks at critical points to ease access for affected residents.

Gunungkidul Government Prepares 5,000 Litre Water Tanks to Combat Drought

The Gunungkidul Regency Government is accelerating the distribution of clean water to drought-stricken areas by deploying 5,000-litre communal water tanks. Bupati Endah Subekti Kuntariningsih stated that funding is being sourced from sub-district budgets, the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), and the Unexpected Expenditure (BTT) fund to ensure rapid response. The initiative aims to provide accessible water storage for residents who lack their own facilities, as the current dry season is proving more severe and prolonged than the previous year.

Industry Minister: Investment competition now between regions, not countries

Indonesia's Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita has highlighted a shift in global investment competition from the national to the regional level, where industrial estates compete directly against each other. He stressed that the speed of transforming investment commitments into production and business certainty are now the primary factors for global firms. The minister urged Indonesian industrial estates to become 'investment enablers' by integrating supply chains, providing renewable energy, and ensuring fast, certain permitting to meet the demands of export markets.

Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Culture and Farmers: Nicotine Threshold Discourse Not Yet a Priority

Indonesian tobacco farmers have staged a protest against a proposed regulation to limit nicotine and tar levels, which they argue would devastate their livelihoods. The Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Culture (Kemenko PMK) has responded by stating that the policy is still in the early public testing phase and will not be implemented in the near future. The ministry pledged to seek a balanced solution that considers public health, economic sustainability, and the welfare of the 2.5 million tobacco farmers.

Pemalang Regent Caught in KPK Sting, Central Java Golkar: This is an Introspection for Us

The Central Java Golkar Party will consult with its central board regarding legal aid for Pemalang Regent Anom Widyantoro after he was caught in a Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) sting operation. The party admitted it is still awaiting official details on the alleged corruption and gratification related to projects and position trading in Pemalang Regency. The party chairman stated the incident serves as a moment of introspection for the party.

Japan Says Legok Nangka WtE Plant Will Be Model for Modern Waste Processing in Indonesia

Japan's Chargé d'Affaires ad interim, Myochin Mitsuru, has expressed confidence that the Legok Nangka Waste-to-Energy (WtE) project in West Bandung will serve as a benchmark for modern, technology-driven waste management across Indonesia. The project, which has completed key stages including the Power Purchase Agreement, is expected to begin construction this year. It is seen as a significant international collaboration involving Japanese and Dutch investors, aimed at solving waste issues while generating electricity and creating local employment.

Prabowo Attends Mass Mortgage Contract Signing for 62,000 FLPP Homes in Batang, Central Java

President Prabowo Subianto witnessed the mass contract signing for 62,000 home mortgages under the Housing Financing Liquidity Facility (FLPP) scheme in Batang, Central Java. The event, part of the government's Three Million Homes Programme, aims to expand access to affordable housing for low-income communities. As of July 2026, over 107,000 low-income families have benefited from the FLPP scheme, with an occupancy rate exceeding 93%.

Clean Water Crisis in Tangerang Expands to 12 Sub-Districts, Affecting 8,135 Families

The clean water crisis in Tangerang Regency, Banten, has expanded to 12 sub-districts, impacting 8,135 families across 31 villages. The local disaster mitigation agency (BPBD) is coordinating with the regional water company and the Indonesian Red Cross to distribute aid. Authorities are also considering proposing weather modification operations if the drought worsens.

Jordan Shoots Down Five Iranian Missiles Following Massive US Strikes

Jordanian air defences intercepted five missiles launched from Iran on Thursday morning, hours after the United States military announced a large-scale wave of strikes against Iranian targets. The US strikes, which hit dozens of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps sites, were a response to an earlier Iranian missile attack on an American base in Jordan. Tehran has condemned the joint US-Saudi strikes in Iraq as a blatant violation of sovereignty and an attempt to widen the regional conflict.

Sociologist Says Melukat Trend Driven by Urban Society's Need for Healing

A sociologist from IPB University has attributed the rising popularity of the Balinese purification ritual 'melukat' among young people to a convergence of modern psychological needs, social media dynamics, and the wellness tourism industry. Dr Ivanovich Agusta noted a shift from conventional consumerism towards holistic health approaches, with urbanites seeking catharsis from high-pressure lifestyles. The trend is amplified by celebrities sharing their experiences, transforming a local religious practice into a widely sought-after, inclusive spiritual experience.

West Java Governor Declares War on Thuggery at Legok Nangka Waste-to-Energy Project

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has ordered a 24-hour security detail for the Legok Nangka waste processing site, vowing to eliminate illegal levies and thuggery that could disrupt the strategic project. The governor warned that allowing people to profit without working sets a dangerous precedent. The facility is a key part of the province's emergency waste management strategy and is projected to generate up to 40.79 megawatts of electricity using high-temperature incinerator technology.

Texas Oil Tycoon Plans Rp80 Trillion Refinery to Bypass Iran Blockade

A Texas oil magnate is spearheading a US$5 billion refinery project in the Gulf of Oman to circumvent Iranian blockades of the Strait of Hormuz. The facility, backed by Middle Eastern investment funds, aims to secure crude exports for GCC members and stabilise global energy supply chains. The plan emerges amid heightened regional tensions and military escalations that have disrupted vital shipping lanes.

Top Indonesian Polling Firm Indikator Clarifies: No July 2026 National Survey Release

Indikator Politik Indonesia has formally denied releasing any national survey for July 2026, following the circulation of unauthorised polling figures. The firm's director emphasised that official results are only published through its verified channels, prompting one financial news outlet to retract related articles. The incident underscores the sensitivity of political polling data and the importance of strict release protocols in Indonesia's public discourse.

Heavy Equipment Giant United Tractors Plunges 48% as Quota Cuts and Mining Halts Drag Profit

PT United Tractors Tbk, Indonesia's largest heavy equipment distributor, reported a 48% drop in underlying net profit for the first half of 2026, driven by national coal production quota cuts and a temporary halt at its Martabe gold mine. The revenue decline was partially offset by foreign exchange gains in its mining contracting division, while the company's balance sheet swung to a net debt position following acquisitions and a share buyback programme. The results highlight the significant operational risks facing mining conglomerates from tighter government regulatory approvals.

Judicial Commission Finds Alleged Ethics Violations by Judges in Andrie Yunus and Nadiem Cases

Indonesia's Judicial Commission (KY) has identified suspected ethical breaches by judges handling the separate cases of Andrie Yunus and Nadiem Makarim. The commission is actively monitoring both cases and has received public complaints, with the Nadiem Makarim report alone citing 12 alleged violation points. Further investigation and clarification from involved parties will be conducted to substantiate the claims.

Salary Hike Fails to Curb Ethical Violations by Judges, KY Strengthens Oversight

The Judicial Commission (KY) has acknowledged that increased salaries and benefits have not fully curbed ethical violations among judges. Despite receiving 1,402 public reports in the first half of 2026, only 88 were formally registered for investigation after verification. The KY is now strengthening oversight by actively monitoring court proceedings to prevent misconduct.

Baznas Distributes 48,000 Litres of Clean Water to Drought-Hit Pandeglang

The National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) has distributed 48,000 litres of clean water to 250 families in Pandeglang, Banten, as part of a rapid response to the ongoing drought. The aid aims to prevent the emergence of new mustahik (zakat recipients) due to water scarcity and to support the region, which is also a key food production area. Baznas plans to expand the distribution across 34 provinces and implement long-term solutions such as boreholes and piped water systems.

Leaders Who Know the Button

The appointment of 41-year-old Sudaryono as head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) highlights a shift towards human-centred digital governance in Indonesia. His immediate push for a transparent system allowing parents to track their children's free nutritious meals underscores that bureaucratic complexity often masks simple technological solutions. The core issue is not technical sophistication but leadership with the digital imagination to turn stored data into accessible public service.

South Jakarta Hopes Genre Ambassadors Can Educate on Family Planning

The South Jakarta city administration has appointed new Generation Berencana (Genre) ambassadors for 2026, tasking them with educating local teenagers on family life planning. The initiative, supported by the DKI Jakarta Child Protection Agency, aims to increase youth participation in the programme and promote healthy, productive lifestyles. The winners emerged from a two-month selection and quarantine process involving 30 finalists.

Ministry of Forestry Makes West Kalimantan a Pilot for National Peatland Fire Risk Mapping

The Ministry of Forestry has designated West Kalimantan as a pilot province for developing a new, more accurate peatland fire risk map. The initiative, conducted with BRIN and Yayasan Konservasi Alam Nusantara, employs updated modelling tailored to specific ecosystem characteristics. The resulting map aims to provide a scientific basis for strengthening fire prevention policies, particularly as West Kalimantan accounted for 27 per cent of the national burned area in early 2026.

OJK Reveals 7 Investment Managers to Participate in Gold ETF Launch on 10 August

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has announced that between five and seven investment managers will take part in the initial launch of gold Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) on 10 August 2026. The launch is set to coincide with the 49th anniversary of the Indonesian capital market. The regulator emphasised that the issuance process will prioritise regulatory compliance and investor protection.

Prabowo Orders KAI and Transport Minister to Build Railway Lines in Sumatra and Kalimantan

President Prabowo Subianto has directed state railway company PT KAI and the Ministry of Transportation to develop the Trans-Sumatra railway and continue the Trans-Kalimantan project. Speaking at the inauguration of Semarang Tawang Station's renovation, he urged simultaneous construction to connect both islands. The President emphasised the need for ambitious national development and a broad vision for Indonesia's railway expansion.

AGO Examines Tycoons Tan Kian and Ferry Hongkiriwang in Money Laundering Case

The Attorney General's Office has questioned businessmen Tan Kian and Ferry Hongkiriwang as witnesses in a money laundering investigation involving former junior attorney general for special crimes, Febrie Adriansyah. The probe is linked to a new investigation order following the receipt of evidence including 74 kilograms of gold and hundreds of billions of rupiah in foreign currency from the police. The case is part of a broader series of investigations into corruption and money laundering at state-owned enterprises.

Prabowo Tasks Transport Minister and KAI Chief to Build Lampung-Aceh Railway

President Prabowo Subianto has directed the Minister of Transportation and the head of state railway firm KAI to expedite the Trans Sumatra Railway, a national strategic project linking Bakauheni to Aceh. The directive was issued during the inauguration of the revitalised Semarang Tawang Station. Prabowo also expressed his desire for the simultaneous commencement of the Trans Kalimantan railway network.

BTN Boss Promises Mortgage Disbursement Within 5 Days

State-owned Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) is accelerating its mortgage (KPR) disbursement process, pledging funds can be released in as little as three to five days through digital transformation. The initiative supports the government's Three Million Houses programme, with BTN aiming to finance 300,000 to 350,000 units while addressing supply-side challenges and offering competitive rates.

Prabowo Pushes for Major KAI Investment: 'I Hear Thousands of Kilometres of Track Remain'

President Prabowo Subianto has called for massive investment in Indonesia's railway sector, framing it as an instrument of economic democratisation and public service. He instructed state-owned railway operator PT KAI to build thousands of kilometres of new track and improve level crossing safety. The president also tasked the transport ministry and KAI with ambitious projects including the Trans-Sumatra and Trans-Kalimantan railways.

House Member Deddy Sitorus Faces Police Report for Calling Journalists a 'Circus Gang'

The Parliamentary Journalists' Coordinator (KWP) has threatened to report House of Representatives (DPR) member Deddy Sitorus to the police and the House Ethics Council after he allegedly referred to journalists covering a meeting as a 'circus gang'. Sitorus claims his remark was taken out of context and was directed at the crowded conditions in the meeting room, not the journalists themselves. The KWP has given him 24 hours to issue a public apology before pursuing legal action.

Food Safety Begins with a Healthy Environment

Indonesia's Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) has stressed that food safety is fundamentally dependent on environmental health, from water quality to raw material sourcing. The agency highlighted that industry compliance with good manufacturing practices must be paired with genuine environmental stewardship to ensure safe, high-quality food. The issue was raised at a key industry event in Jakarta, where cross-sector collaboration was identified as essential for building a secure food ecosystem.

Medan Sub-District Head Denies Saying 'Bah', Claims 'It Was Probably the Wind'

A sub-district head in Medan, Syerly, has clarified a viral video in which she appeared to mock a resident's complaint about street lighting. She insists her remark 'Cie curhat' was a spontaneous, light-hearted comment and denies uttering the dismissive word 'Bah', attributing the sound to coastal winds. The incident occurred during a visit by the Mayor of Medan to inspect roadworks in Paya Pasir.

Jakarta Optimises TPS 3R Waste Management Ahead of Bantargebang Open Dumping Ban

The Jakarta provincial government is optimising its Reduce, Reuse, Recycle waste processing sites (TPS 3R) to ensure only residual waste is sent to the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Site (TPST) starting 1 August 2026. Governor Pramono Anung launched a reactivated facility in Menteng Atas with a capacity of 150 tonnes per day, shifting the paradigm from 'transport-dispose' to 'sort-transport-process'. The administration aims to upgrade 31 existing TPS 3R locations through private sector partnerships to significantly reduce the burden on the city's main landfill.

Prabowo Orders KAI Chief to Build Trans-Sumatra and Kalimantan Railways

President Prabowo Subianto has set an ambitious target for national railway development, instructing state-owned PT KAI to commence construction of a Trans-Sumatra Railway linking Bakauheni to Banda Aceh. He also called for the simultaneous initiation of a Trans-Kalimantan railway network as part of a grand vision to bolster Indonesia's connectivity. The President urged officials to embrace bold thinking, asserting that infrastructure development must match the nation's vast potential.

How a KPK Police Officer Extorted the Pemalang Regent

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro a suspect in a bribery and extortion case involving his own administration and an attempt to influence an investigation. One of the KPK's own employees, a police officer seconded to the anti-graft body, has also been named a suspect for allegedly facilitating the scheme. The case involves the collection of nearly Rp 2 billion from village officials and private partners, partly intended to pay off the KPK insider to settle a corruption case against the regent.