Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 30 July 2026

Showing 1,151-1,200 of 1,630 articles

Government Prepares Strategy to Combat Disinformation Wave Driven by Algorithms

The Indonesian government is developing a strategy to counter the growing wave of disinformation, which it attributes to social media algorithms and the rise of AI-generated synthetic content. Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs, Nezar Patria, highlighted how algorithms create 'echo chambers' by prioritising sentiment over facts, leading to social polarisation. The government plans to enhance content moderation under existing laws and promote public digital literacy to help citizens verify the authenticity of information before sharing it.

Parliamentary Journalists Protest PDIP's Deddy Sitorus Over 'Like a Circus' Remark

The Parliamentary Journalists Coordinator (KWP) has formally protested against Deddy Sitorus, a member of the House of Representatives from the PDIP faction, for allegedly comparing journalists to a 'circus'. The incident occurred during a public meeting of Commission II when journalists entered the room to document the arrival of Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad. KWP has given Sitorus 24 hours to issue a public apology, threatening to report him to the House Ethics Council and party leadership if he fails to do so.

Indonesia Invites APEC Members to Join World Mangrove Center

Indonesia has called on Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) members to join its World Mangrove Center (WMC) to strengthen global collaboration on mangrove conservation. Speaking at the 2026 APEC Ministerial Meeting on Forestry in Shenzhen, Indonesia also promoted its Sustainable Forest Management and Timber Legality Verification System (SVLK) as a model for green supply chains. The country further urged a shift towards developing non-timber forest products to provide economic incentives for forest communities and combat illegal logging.

New York City to Launch Government-Owned Supermarkets with Fixed 30% Discount, Echoing Indonesia's Village Cooperative Model

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has announced plans to build five municipal supermarkets offering a fixed 30% discount on essential groceries to combat rising living costs. The initiative, which mirrors Indonesia's 'Koperasi Desa' village cooperative concept aimed at stabilising prices, will see the city invest US$70 million to establish stores in underserved neighbourhoods. The first outlet is scheduled to open in the Bronx by late 2027, with the city setting price standards while private operators manage daily functions.

Private Firm Illegally Dumps Waste in North Jakarta Green Space, Governor Demands Legal Action

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has ordered legal proceedings against a private waste management company that illegally stockpiled rubbish in a green open space in Penjaringan, North Jakarta. The firm collected waste from hotels, restaurants, and cafes but failed to process it properly, instead creating an illegal dump. Pramono stressed that the government will no longer issue mere warnings, marking a shift towards strict law enforcement for environmental violations.

BMKG Predicts Longer Dry Season, Peak to Last Until September

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has forecast that the peak of the 2026 dry season will occur between August and September, with conditions expected to be drier and longer than normal. Nearly half of the country's territory is predicted to experience the peak in August, with a further quarter reaching it in September. The agency noted that the dry season typically begins in the south-eastern region, such as East Nusa Tenggara, before moving westward.

Building a Sense of Security for Women

High rates of reported violence against women in Indonesia, particularly in West Java and Jakarta, demand a shift from reactive case handling to proactive prevention. The article argues that public policy must address the complex social, economic, and moral factors that create environments vulnerable to violence. It further explores an Islamic perspective, framing the protection of women as a state responsibility rooted in safeguarding life and honour.

Banking Stocks Lift IHSG into Green Territory, Up 0.72% in First Session

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) rebounded into positive territory during the first trading session on Thursday, driven by gains in large-cap banking stocks. The index rose 0.72% to 6,134.95, snapping a six-day losing streak, buoyed by a broader recovery in Asian markets. PT Bank Central Asia Tbk (BBCA) was the top contributor to the index's gain.

2026 Economic Census: An Investment in Knowledge to Navigate National Development

The 2026 Economic Census is positioned as a crucial investment in knowledge, providing comprehensive data to guide government policy, business decisions, and academic research. The nationwide effort will involve 251,000 trained officers to map economic activities across the archipelago, ensuring decisions are based on actual conditions rather than estimates. The success of the census relies on accurate public participation, with its true value realised when the data informs strategic development and market expansion.

Undip Vocational School Creates Energy-Efficient Coffee Roasting Machine

The Vocational School of Diponegoro University (Undip) has developed an energy-efficient coffee roasting machine named Voca-Roaste. The machine, created by lecturer Mohamad Endy Julianto, addresses industry challenges by improving heat distribution and roasting consistency while reducing energy consumption. The innovation has been registered for a patent, adding to the creator's portfolio of protected applied research.

Attorney General's Office Carries Out Major Reshuffle: 90 District Prosecutors Replaced, West Jakarta Gets New Leadership

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has conducted a large-scale rotation, replacing 90 District Prosecutors (Kajari) across the country. The reshuffle, confirmed by the AGO's Legal Information Centre, is described as a routine promotion and organisational refresh to enhance public service and law enforcement. Among the key changes, Arief Indra Kusuma Adhi has been appointed as the new head of the West Jakarta District Prosecutor's Office.

Yogyakarta Police Refrain from Detaining Two Daycare Abuse Suspects

Yogyakarta Police have refrained from detaining two suspects in the Little Aresha daycare abuse case due to one being four months pregnant and the other having a four-month-old baby. A total of 32 suspects have been named in connection with the case, which involves 157 victims. The suspects face charges under the Child Protection Law, carrying maximum sentences of up to five years for neglect and discrimination.

Prabowo inaugurates revitalised Semarang Tawang Station, boards Nusantara Explorer train

President Prabowo Subianto officially inaugurated the revitalised Semarang Tawang Station, a Dutch colonial heritage building, after a 240-day renovation aimed at restoring its historical facade and improving flood resilience. Following the ceremony, the President boarded the Nusantara Explorer train service, which he had directed KAI to develop as an elegant passenger offering. The revitalisation project, carried out by PT KAI, marks the first major official restoration of the cultural heritage site.

Govt boosts cyber patrols, collaboration to counter radical content

The Indonesian government is intensifying cyber patrols and strengthening multi-stakeholder collaboration to combat the spread of radicalism in the digital space. The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs highlighted the vulnerability of children, with data showing 112 minors exposed to radical ideology through online games, and emphasized the importance of public reports and the newly enacted child protection regulation (PP Tunas).

Police Name 19 Suspects in Little Aresha Daycare Abuse Case

Police in Yogyakarta have named 19 suspects, including caregivers and a security guard, in connection with the abuse of children at the Little Aresha daycare. Thirteen of the initial 14 suspects have been detained, while two others were not held due to pregnancy or recent childbirth. The suspects face multiple charges under child protection laws, carrying maximum sentences of up to five years.

121 Judges Found Guilty of Ethics Violations, Judicial Commission Urges Supreme Court to Impose Sanctions

The Judicial Commission (KY) has recommended sanctions for 121 judges found to have breached the Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct for Judges during the first half of 2026. The number of violations has more than doubled compared to the same period last year, with nine judges facing dishonourable discharge. The majority of breaches involved procedural law, including case administration errors and manipulation of trial facts.

United Tractors Posts Rp58.3 Trillion Revenue in First Half of 2026

PT United Tractors Tbk reported a 15% year-on-year decline in net revenue to Rp58.3 trillion for the first half of 2026, primarily due to lower gold sales and reduced heavy equipment and coal mining performance. The company's net profit, excluding non-recurring items, fell 48% to Rp4.3 trillion, while its balance sheet shifted to a net debt position following a gold mine acquisition and share buyback programme. The heavy equipment segment saw a 28% revenue drop, driven by a sharp decline in large mining machinery sales.

Riau Governor Sentenced to Two Years in Prison in Corruption Case

The Pekanbaru Corruption Court has sentenced the suspended Governor of Riau, Abdul Wahid, to two years in prison for his role in a bribery case linked to a 'protection racket'. The sentence is significantly lighter than the 8.5-year prison term demanded by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) prosecutors. The court found Wahid guilty of corruption, marking a notable conclusion to a high-profile regional graft case.

ASDP adjusts Bali Strait ferry operations due to rough seas

State-owned ferry operator ASDP has adjusted services on the Ketapang-Gilimanuk route in response to rough sea conditions, prioritising passenger and vessel safety. Operations were temporarily suspended and will resume once weather improves, with the company coordinating closely with authorities and preparing additional vessels to clear vehicle queues. The measures aim to mitigate risks while minimising disruption to logistics and passenger traffic between Java and Bali.

Serang Farmers Switch to Cucumbers as Dry Spell Halts Rice Planting

Farmers in Kasemen, Serang, are abandoning the third rice planting cycle due to a prolonged dry spell lasting over two months. With irrigation channels running low, some are turning to less water-intensive crops like cucumbers to keep their land productive. Others face rising costs from pumping water, casting doubt on the viability of the upcoming planting season.

Expert: Prabowo Needs Reshuffle to Improve Electability

President Prabowo Subianto's electability has fallen sharply to 14.5 percent in a recent SMRC survey, down from 34.9 percent nine months ago. Political communication expert Jamiluddin Ritonga warns that without a major cabinet reshuffle, particularly in economic, political, and legal portfolios, Prabowo's chances of re-election in 2029 could be severely diminished. The decline mirrors a drop in public satisfaction with his performance from 81.2 percent to 51.1 percent over the same period.

Powerbank Explodes on Makassar-Jakarta Flight, Batik Air Responds

A powerbank belonging to a passenger emitted smoke and sparked on a Batik Air flight from Makassar to Jakarta on Wednesday. The cabin crew, trained in emergency procedures, quickly extinguished the device using onboard safety equipment, and the flight continued safely to Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. Batik Air has launched an investigation into the incident and reiterated its safety regulations prohibiting the use of powerbanks to charge devices during flights.

RANS Entertainment Clarifies Grandy Prajayakti's Resignation, Asserts Operations Continue as Normal

PT RANS Entertainment Indonesia Tbk has confirmed that the resignation of director Grandy Prajayakti was purely for personal reasons and not due to any internal disputes. The company stated that the decision was not pre-planned during the initial public offering (IPO) process. RANS assured stakeholders that business strategies remain on track and the remaining board members will absorb his responsibilities.

Polda Metro Jaya Requests Court to Reject Roy Suryo's Rp206 Million Compensation Claim

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police have formally requested the South Jakarta District Court to dismiss a compensation claim filed by former minister Roy Suryo. The police argue that a prior pretrial ruling, which deemed his arrest and detention unlawful, does not automatically entitle him to the Rp206 million in damages sought. The court is now examining whether the legal requirements for compensation have been met.

Indonesia expands SMIs to spur growth in transmigration areas

The Indonesian government is expanding small and medium industries (SMIs) in transmigration areas to drive inclusive economic growth and poverty alleviation. Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita highlighted a recent technical guidance program in Batam's Barelang area, which trained new entrepreneurs in processed fish to optimize local fisheries potential. The initiative aligns with Presidential Instruction No. 8 of 2025 and aims to create jobs, boost incomes, and strengthen local economies through integrated community empowerment.

Riau Conservation Agency Monitors Sumatran Tiger Presence in Indragiri Hilir

The Riau Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BBKSDA) is monitoring a Sumatran tiger in Indragiri Hilir after it entered a settlement and attacked livestock. The agency has deployed camera traps and drones to track the critically endangered animal's movements. Authorities are urging residents to secure their livestock and report any sightings to prevent further human-wildlife conflict.

Health Ministry to Adopt Integrated Service System from Malang Puskesmas Nationwide

The Indonesian Ministry of Health plans to adopt the integrated service system used at the Cisadea Community Health Centre (Puskesmas) in Malang, East Java, as a national model. Deputy Health Minister Benjamin Paulus Octavianus praised the system for its ability to rapidly trace disease spread by identifying patients' origins and high-transmission areas. The ministry also pledged to support the facility's tuberculosis detection capabilities with a portable X-ray machine.

4 Documents to Prepare Now for 2026 Civil Service School Registration

The National Civil Service Agency (BKN) has signalled the imminent opening of the 2026 civil service school selection process, urging prospective applicants to prepare essential documents in advance. Nine state-affiliated academies, including PKN STAN and IPDN, will be opening their doors this year. Applicants are advised to ready scanned copies of their ID card, birth certificate, diploma, and academic transcripts before the official registration period begins.

Pramono tells Jakarta Environment Agency not to handle waste half-heartedly

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has urged the Environment Agency to tackle the city's waste problem with full commitment, warning against half-hearted efforts. The administration is intensifying waste sorting at source and optimising reduce, reuse, recycle (3R) facilities to cut the 9,000 tonnes of daily waste sent to the Bantargebang landfill. Officials noted that food waste makes up the largest portion of the city's organic rubbish, and reducing it would significantly ease the burden on the municipal waste management system.

Prabowo Highlights Soekarno's Legacy at Semarang Tawang Station Revitalisation

President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated the revitalised Semarang Tawang Station, emphasising its historical significance as a site used by Indonesia's first president, Soekarno, during the early independence era. He stated that preserving the station is about safeguarding national identity and memory, not just maintaining a physical structure. Prabowo also underscored the railway's ongoing role as an efficient economic instrument that supports equitable development and serves lower-income communities.

Infineum and Kangtai advance partnership with distribution collaboration across Southern Asia

Infineum and Kangtai, a subsidiary of Rianlon, have expanded their strategic partnership to distribute Kangtai's lubricant additives across Southern Asia through Infineum's established channels. The collaboration aims to enhance regional market reach and customer service, complementing Rianlon's investment in a new R&D and manufacturing facility in Johor, Malaysia. This move strengthens both companies' presence in the growing Asian market by offering a broader portfolio of additive solutions.

National Salt Industry in Rote Ndao Targets 200 Tonnes Per Hectare Production

The National Salt Industry Centre (K-SIGN) in Rote Ndao, East Nusa Tenggara, is projected to produce up to 200 tonnes of high-quality salt per hectare. Governor Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena stated the initiative supports the central government's priority of achieving national salt self-sufficiency. The project employs modern, integrated production methods and focuses on local community empowerment.

Global Factory Relocation Trend Opens Investment Opportunities for Indonesia

Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita stated that the current wave of global supply chain restructuring and geopolitical tensions is creating a window of opportunity for Indonesia to attract manufacturing investment. He noted that Indonesia's economy grew by 5.61% in the first quarter of 2026, with the manufacturing sector contributing significantly to GDP and exports. The Minister stressed that investors are comparing countries rapidly, so Indonesia must accelerate the process from investment commitment to production.

KY Proposes Sanctions for 121 Judges in First Half of 2026, More Than Double Previous Year

The Judicial Commission (KY) has proposed sanctions for 121 judges to the Supreme Court (MA) during the first half of 2026, a figure more than double the 49 proposed in the same period last year. The significant increase highlights persistent ethical violations, including case manipulation and corruption. The proposed sanctions range from light reprimands to permanent dismissal, as the commission intensifies both enforcement and preventative monitoring to uphold judicial accountability.

Pelican crossing replaces Tendean footbridge, now open to pedestrians

The South Jakarta Transportation Agency has confirmed that a new pelican crossing on Jalan Kapten Tendean is operational, replacing the previous footbridge. Officials have deployed personnel to help road users adapt to the new crossing, which serves an area with high pedestrian and vehicle volumes. The facility is one of three crossing points in the vicinity, and early reports indicate positive public reception despite some adjustment needed from motorists.

RANS Director Grandy Prajayakti Resigns Citing Personal Reasons, Company Denies Internal Issues

PT Rans Entertainmen Indonesia Tbk. (RANS) has confirmed the resignation of its director, Grandy Prajayakti, citing purely personal reasons. The company, owned by celebrity Raffi Ahmad, has denied any internal disputes and stated the decision was made after the initial public offering (IPO). Management assured that the resignation has no material impact on operations and the remaining board can effectively manage the company.

Digital Connectivity Must Drive Societal Growth, Says Minister Hafid

Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Meutya Hafid stated that Indonesia's digital connectivity must now focus on creating tangible societal growth rather than merely providing access. She outlined a new phase of infrastructure development guided by the principles of growth, connection, and security, shifting from network coverage to meaningful connectivity. The government's 2026-2030 roadmap aims to build an integrated digital ecosystem to support the nation's long-term vision.

Why Ex-Deputy Police Chief Oegroseno Wore Retired Uniform to Kortastipidkor Summons: The Explanation

Former Deputy Police Chief Komjen Pol (Purn) Oegroseno attended a clarification summons at the Police Anti-Corruption Corps wearing his retired uniform, explaining it was linked to his position as Head of the Education and Training Institute in 2011 when the alleged land procurement corruption occurred. He had previously delayed the summons due to prior commitments and the need to gather related documents. The head of Kortastipidkor has assured the investigation is being conducted according to legal procedures and denies any attempt at criminalisation.

Ministry of Villages PDT Promotes 'Village TIP Response Package' for Prevention

The Ministry of Villages, Development of Disadvantaged Regions, and Transmigration (Kemendes PDT) is pushing a new action package to strengthen village-level efforts in preventing human trafficking. The initiative positions village governments as the frontline in detecting vulnerabilities, providing protection, and assisting victims. The package outlines five systematic steps, including risk mapping, providing safe migration information, and establishing community-based reporting mechanisms.

BPOM Socialises Food Safety Regulations to Protect the Public

Indonesia's Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) is socialising new regulations and guidelines to strengthen food safety and public health protection. The agency highlighted that unsafe food caused 1.52 million deaths globally last year and noted 219 food poisoning outbreaks in the national free meals programme in 2025. The new rules also cover nutritional labelling to curb excessive sugar, salt, and fat consumption.

Polar AI Browser Automates Tasks, Secures IDR 92 Billion in Funding

Polar AI Browser, a new entrant in the AI browser market, has secured IDR 92 billion (US$5.7 million) in seed funding from Madrona Ventures. The browser distinguishes itself by focusing on automating repetitive daily tasks for knowledge workers, rather than just offering chatbot-based search. Founded by a former Perplexity engineer, Polar aims to make workflow automation accessible without requiring programming skills.

Attorney General's Office transfers 90 district prosecutors, including West Jakarta's

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has rotated 90 district prosecutors in a move described as a promotion and organisational refresh. The reshuffle, formalised in a decree signed on 29 July 2026, includes the appointment of Arief Indra Kusuma Adhi as the new head of the West Jakarta District Prosecutor's Office. The transfers are intended to enhance public service and law enforcement.

The Story of a TNI General Summoned to the Palace and Asked to Replace the Indonesian President

President Soekarno once summoned General Ahmad Yani to the palace, claiming a divine vision instructed him to prepare Yani as his successor should he become unable to lead. Yani, a highly trusted army chief, was reportedly shocked by the request and pointed to more senior figures, but Soekarno insisted. The plan never materialised as Yani was killed during the 30 September Movement in 1965, an event that deeply saddened Soekarno and ultimately paved the way for Soeharto's rise to power.

Pemalang Regent Appears in Detention Vest Following KPK Sting Operation

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has formally detained Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro and three other suspects following a sting operation. The anti-graft body also seized Rp2 billion in cash suspected to be linked to bribery and abuse of power within the Pemalang district government. The suspects are being held to facilitate further investigation into the corruption case.

Why Digital Business Graduates Are the Hybrid Talent Startups Are Seeking

Indonesian startups are increasingly seeking 'hybrid talent' that combines business strategy with digital skills. Graduates of Digital Business programmes are well-positioned to meet this demand due to their training in areas such as digital marketing, data analytics, and product management. This shift reflects the dynamic and competitive nature of the startup ecosystem, where cross-disciplinary competence is highly valued.

Pramono Reveals Cause of SDN Cipete Utara 01 Project Delay of Nearly a Year

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has disclosed that the construction of SDN Cipete Utara 01 was delayed for almost a year due to a mid-project change from a four-storey school to a 20-storey mixed-use building. The governor has instructed the education department to prioritise completing the school building so students can return. The project was originally targeted for completion in September 2026.

Prabowo Inaugurates Semarang Tawang Station Revitalisation, Urges Preservation of Historical Journey

President Prabowo Subianto officially inaugurated the first phase of the Semarang Tawang Station revitalisation, emphasising that the project is about preserving national identity and historical memory, not just physical restoration. The President highlighted the station's significance as part of the journey of Indonesia's first president, Soekarno, during the early independence period. He also commended state railway company PT KAI for swiftly executing the project.

Pramono Prepares 40-Hectare Site in Ciangir, Banten for Organic Waste Processing

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has announced the acquisition of a 40-hectare site in Ciangir, Banten, dedicated to processing organic waste. The facility is part of a new waste management ecosystem designed to reduce the burden on the Bantargebang landfill. The initiative follows a gubernatorial instruction shifting the capital's strategy from merely transporting and dumping waste to sorting, transporting, and processing it.

PIRA Distributes 1,450 Food Packages to Residents in East Jakarta

The women's wing of the Gerindra Party, PIRA, distributed 1,450 basic food packages, provided aid to 200 orphans, and donated wheelchairs in Pulogebang, East Jakarta. The initiative is part of the 'PIRA Peduli dan Berbagi' programme, which focuses on direct social action aligned with community needs. The organisation stated the activity is part of its effort to support government programmes and strengthen its presence down to the village level.

Iran's Fuel Crisis: Government Plans Price Hike Amid Conflict

The Iranian government is considering a politically sensitive fuel price increase as domestic consumption far outstrips production, exacerbated by ongoing conflict with the United States. With a daily deficit of millions of litres and refining capacity crippled by sanctions, authorities view price adjustments or new rationing as inevitable. The move risks triggering widespread public discontent as households already struggle with soaring living costs and a severely weakened currency.