Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 30 July 2026

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1.12 Million ASDP Ferry Passengers Benefit from Government Stimulus During School Holidays

Over 1.12 million passengers utilised discounted ferry crossings during the 2026 school holiday period, according to state-owned ferry operator PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry. The government's transport stimulus programme disbursed Rp22.2 billion in subsidies across eight strategic national routes. The initiative aimed to support public mobility and stimulate regional economic activity, achieving 93.3 percent of its target beneficiaries.

Baznas Distributes Clean Water to Drought-Affected Residents in Pandeglang

The National Alms Agency (Baznas) has distributed 48,000 litres of clean water to communities in Pandeglang, Banten, as part of its disaster response to severe drought. The aid targets 250 families and is part of a broader national programme aiming to reach 34 drought and post-disaster affected provinces. Baznas emphasised that providing basic water access is crucial to prevent new poverty and support agricultural livelihoods in the region.

West Java handles 60 human trafficking cases in first half of 2026

The West Java Provincial Government has handled 60 cases of human trafficking (TPPO) from January to June 2026, with officials noting a rising trend over the past three years. Authorities are providing ongoing psychological, social, and legal support to victims, including those involved in a case in Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. Prevention efforts have been strengthened through a dedicated task force and a moratorium on the departure of female migrant workers with children under five.

Two Clusters in Pemalang Regent Sting: Extortion by Regent and Extortion by KPK Official

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named four suspects in a sting operation involving the Regent of Pemalang, Anom Widiyantoro. The case is divided into two clusters: one involving the regent's alleged extortion of subordinates and private parties, and another involving an alleged extortion by a KPK administrative staff member against the regent. The KPK has emphasised that the investigation will be conducted objectively and transparently, despite the involvement of its own personnel.

10 Ministries and Agencies with the Largest Land Assets: From Public Works to the National Police

The Ministry of Public Works holds the largest land assets among Indonesian government institutions, valued at Rp765.3 trillion, according to the 2025 audited central government financial report. The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology and the National Police follow with Rp349 trillion and Rp212.8 trillion respectively. The data highlights how state land assets are heavily concentrated in infrastructure, education, and security agencies.

Iran Strongly Condemns Joint US-Saudi Airstrikes on Iraq

Iran's Foreign Ministry has vehemently condemned joint airstrikes by the United States and Saudi Arabia on multiple locations in Iraq, calling them a blatant violation of Iraqi sovereignty. The strikes reportedly killed at least 20 Popular Mobilization Forces fighters and injured dozens more. The attack marks a significant escalation, with Washington and Riyadh stating it was a response to drone attacks on US forces and Saudi oil facilities.

Popular: SPPG in High-Stunting Areas, Forest Fires in Central Java

A roundup of popular human interest news includes the National Nutrition Agency's focus on building nutritional service units in regions with high stunting rates to support the free nutritious meal programme. Other stories cover a public national prayer event at Monas, government efforts to accelerate the organisation of over 13,000 free meal service points, and a proposal for Bogor to become a pilot city for integrated tuberculosis control. The report also notes that joint teams are still battling forest and land fires across four districts in Central Java.

PRR Task Force Synchronises TKD and Ministry Programmes for West Pasaman Recovery

The national disaster recovery task force is aligning the use of Rp128.39 billion in additional regional transfer funds with ministerial programmes to support post-disaster rehabilitation in West Pasaman. The total recovery needs have been updated to approximately Rp1.19 trillion, covering infrastructure, flood control, and housing. Officials are urging accelerated fund disbursement and better technical planning to avoid project overlaps and ensure construction can proceed before the rainy season.

East Java Government Accelerates Green Industry to Boost Export Competitiveness

The East Java provincial government is accelerating the development of green industries through cross-sector collaboration to enhance the competitiveness of domestic products in global markets. The initiative aims to help local businesses meet international sustainability certification standards required for export. The programme will also focus on integrating small and medium-sized enterprises into the low-carbon industrial ecosystem.

BMKG forecasts light rain for major cities including Jakarta on Thursday

The Indonesian Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has forecast light rain across several major cities, including Jakarta, for Thursday. The conditions are attributed to regional atmospheric dynamics creating areas of convergence and wind slowdown. Eastern regions such as Mamuju, Palu, and Jayapura are also expected to see light rain, with thunderstorms predicted for Bengkulu and Pontianak.

Oegroseno in Retirement Uniform Visits Bareskrim for Clarification

Retired Commissioner General Oegroseno visited the Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) of the Indonesian National Police on Thursday to provide clarification regarding an alleged corruption case. The case involves the procurement of land for the Police Women's School (Sepolwan) dating back to 2011. The head of the Corruption Eradication Corps (Kortas Tipidkor) stated that the investigation is a standard procedure to determine whether a criminal act occurred, not an attempt at criminalisation.

Ensuring Data Security, Targeted Policies Through the 2026 Economic Census

The Indonesian government is conducting the 2026 Economic Census to build a comprehensive map of the nation's economy, with officials assuring the public that all personal data will be kept confidential and used solely for statistical purposes. The census, which has reached over 50 percent completion, aims to provide accurate data for formulating adaptive and inclusive economic policies. Experts emphasise that honest public participation is crucial for creating effective government programmes, while clarifying that the census is not related to taxation.

Trump Holds Surprise Meeting with Saudi Defence Minister, What Was Discussed?

US President Donald Trump held an impromptu meeting with Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman amid escalating regional tensions. The talks covered the recent joint US-Saudi airstrikes in Iraq, de-escalation efforts with Iran, and the situation in Yemen. Saudi Arabia reportedly conveyed its preference for a diplomatic path despite its military actions.

US-Iran Tensions Spill Over to Egypt as Gas Tanker Attacked

A gas tanker was targeted in a drone attack at Egypt's Damietta port, raising fresh concerns over the security of energy infrastructure in the Eastern Mediterranean. The incident highlights the widening regional spillover of US-Iran tensions, threatening strategic shipping lanes and global energy supply chains.

Agriculture Minister Confirms 10-Month National Rice Stock, Optimistic Indonesia Will Weather 'Godzilla El Niño'

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has assured the public that national rice reserves are sufficient for the next ten months, totalling 26 million tonnes. The government is confident that the extreme 'Godzilla El Niño' weather phenomenon will not disrupt Indonesia's food security. The stock includes 5.2 million tonnes held by the state logistics agency Bulog and a significant standing crop ready for harvest.

Bank Aladin Syariah Posts Rp23.3 Billion Profit in Q1 2026

PT Bank Aladin Syariah reported a net profit of Rp23.3 billion for the first quarter of 2026, with total assets reaching Rp15.1 trillion. The bank's active customer base grew by 30.17 percent year-on-year, reflecting rising public trust in its digital sharia banking services. The company also launched an Umrah programme for loyal pension savings customers as part of its long-term relationship-building strategy.

Klungkung Fishermen Idle for Three Months Due to Bad Weather and Subsidised Fuel Access Issues

Fishermen in Pesinggahan Village, Klungkung, Bali, have been unable to go to sea for three months due to persistently bad weather, leading to a loss of income. They also face difficulties in obtaining subsidised fuel, citing a lengthy and restrictive permit process. The community has been forced to seek alternative work and take out loans, with hopes for government food aid.

Prabowo Inaugurates Revitalisation of Semarang Tawang Station

President Prabowo Subianto officially inaugurated the first phase of the heritage building renovation at Semarang Tawang Station in Central Java. The President highlighted the station's strong historical value, stating that a great nation must not forget its own history. The event was part of a working visit that also included a scheduled mass subsidised housing contract ceremony in Batang.

Botubarani whale shark tourism provides economic impact for coastal residents

Whale shark tourism in Botubarani, Gorontalo, has generated significant economic benefits for the local community since 2016. The community-based management model involves residents as boat operators and service providers, with fixed tariffs regulated by village law. A portion of the revenue is also contributed directly to the village.

UBSI Officially Opens Three New Study Programmes in Banyumas, Sleman, and Tegal

Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) has received ministerial approval to launch three new undergraduate programmes outside its main campus in Banyumas, Sleman, and Tegal. The expansion aims to broaden access to higher education and strengthen human resource development in these regions. Officials from the Higher Education Service Institution (LLDIKTI) Region III emphasised the importance of accurate administrative data in the national higher education database to ensure smooth operations and valid graduate certification.

Kadin Chairman and Cabinet Secretary Teddy Discuss Electricity Industry Development, Anindya Bakrie Introduces 'We Buy From Indonesia' Book

Kadin Chairman Anindya Bakrie met with Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya to discuss strengthening the role of regional entrepreneurs and developing the electricity, garment, and electric vehicle industries. Bakrie also presented his book 'We Buy From Indonesia', which highlights the country's role in the global supply chain and features 80 global brands that source components locally. The book was previously presented to President Prabowo and French President Emmanuel Macron, who requested a special edition featuring French brands.

US Senate Begins Debate on Bill for Additional Sanctions Against Russia and Iran

The United States Senate has advanced a bill proposing additional sanctions on Russia and Iran, clearing a procedural vote to begin formal debate. The proposed legislation includes a 500 per cent tariff on all goods imported from Russia and sanctions targeting major Russian banks. The bill will require further votes in the Senate before being sent to the House of Representatives.

Gunungkidul Farmers Sell Livestock and Harvests to Buy Water Amid Severe Drought

Residents in several sub-districts of Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta, are being forced to sell their livestock and crops to afford clean water as a severe drought hits the region. The hardest-hit areas include Kemesu, Semugih, and Rongkop, where piped water from the local water company (PDAM) does not flow daily. A local hamlet chief noted that a 5,000-litre water tanker costs around Rp 120,000 and typically lasts a family only two to three weeks.

Pemalang Regent Suspected of Being Both Perpetrator and Victim of Extortion

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro a suspect in two separate extortion cases, one involving alleged shakedowns of subordinates and private parties, and another where he is allegedly the victim of extortion by a KPK staff member. Four individuals, including a KPK administrative staffer and his father, have been detained following a sting operation across three cities. The anti-graft agency has pledged to handle the case objectively and transparently, vowing internal corrective measures.

President Prabowo Arrives at Semarang Tawang Station to Inaugurate Revitalisation

President Prabowo Subianto visited Semarang Tawang Station on Thursday to inaugurate the first phase of its revitalisation. The project, which began in May 2025, aims to modernise the heritage building while preserving its historical value. The station, originally built in 1914, remains one of Indonesia's busiest, handling over 2.15 million passenger movements in the first half of 2026.

Judicial Commission Records 740 Alleged Ethics Violations by Judges in First Half of 2026

Indonesia's Judicial Commission (KY) received 1,402 public reports in the first half of 2026, with 740 concerning alleged breaches of the judicial code of ethics. The high volume of complaints underscores significant public concern over judicial integrity and expectations for more effective oversight. The Commission has summoned 84 judges for clarification and participated in seven honour panel hearings with the Supreme Court.

Chinese Handset Shipments Slump as Apple's iPhone Bucks Global Downturn

Global smartphone shipments fell 11% year-on-year in Q2 2026, driven by a sharp decline in Chinese brands, while Apple's decision to hold iPhone prices led to a projected 3% shipment increase and a near-20% market share. Rising component costs, particularly for memory chips, have forced many Android manufacturers to raise prices, dampening demand in the entry-level and mid-range segments. Apple's contrasting strategy has boosted its stock to record highs, reclaiming the title of the world's most valuable company.

Ministry Strengthens Prevention of Human Trafficking Through Education and Village Empowerment

The Ministry of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions is intensifying efforts to prevent human trafficking by educating communities, identifying potential migrant workers early, and boosting village economies. The strategy aims to reduce the economic pressure that drives villagers to seek risky employment abroad. The initiative is part of a broader government push to make villages centres of development and job creation.

Prabowo Raises Performance Allowances for TNI and Defense Ministry Personnel

President Prabowo Subianto has issued new regulations significantly increasing performance allowances for Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI) and Defence Ministry employees, with the highest-ranking four-star officers now receiving Rp48.6 million per month. The adjustment, the first since 2018, is intended to reflect the military's expanded responsibilities in areas such as disaster response and food security. The government hopes the pay rise will boost professionalism and accountability within the defence sector.

Toddler Abducted in Makassar Over Mother's Unpaid Online Arisan Debt

Police in Makassar, South Sulawesi, have arrested three suspects for the kidnapping of a two-year-old child. The abduction was allegedly motivated by the victim's mother failing to repay an online arisan debt of approximately Rp 300 million. The child was found safe in Pangkep Regency after a week-long search.

World Oil Prices Fall After Surge Triggered by US-Iran Conflict, Market Recalculates Middle East Risk

Global oil prices retreated on Thursday after a sharp rally driven by escalating US-Iran tensions, as traders reassessed supply disruption risks. The decline followed a significant surge in Brent and WTI prices the previous day. Despite the pullback, prices remain elevated due to persistent geopolitical uncertainty and shifting maritime traffic patterns in key regional chokepoints.

CORE Indonesia Projects Economic Growth Below 5%, Here's Why

CORE Indonesia projects Indonesia's economic growth in the second quarter of 2026 to slow to between 4.8% and 4.9%, falling below the 5% mark. The think tank attributes the deceleration to heightened global uncertainty, rising production costs due to energy price spikes, and tighter domestic monetary policy. Its full-year 2026 growth forecast remains at 4.9% to 5.1%, below the government's target of 5.4%.

KPK Has Arrested a Dozen Regional Heads, Including West Lombok Regent

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has conducted a series of sting operations throughout 2026, resulting in the arrest of twelve regional heads. The latest official caught is the Regent of West Lombok, Lalu Ahmad Zaini, for alleged project corruption and accepting bribes totalling IDR 12.4 billion. The arrests span from January to July and involve various charges including bribery, extortion, and the trading of official positions.

UBSI and Klaten Regency Government Strengthen Education Access Through Regional Scholarship Programme

Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) has signed a cooperation agreement with the Klaten Regency Government to provide regional scholarships for high-achieving students. The agreement was formalised during the Klaten Lurik Festival 2026, marking the 222nd anniversary of the regency. The initiative aims to improve human resources and expand higher education access for the youth of Klaten.

Police Officer Serving at KPK Named Suspect in Pemalang Regent Extortion Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named a police officer assigned to its ranks as a suspect in the alleged extortion of Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro. The officer, who served as an administrative staff member on secondment from the National Police, was implicated following a sting operation. The anti-graft body acknowledged the case as a matter for internal introspection and pledged to strengthen its oversight systems.

West Java Dominates Human Trafficking Victim Protection Requests, LPSK Calls for Village-Level Collaboration

Indonesia's Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) reports that West Java remains the region with the highest number of applicants seeking protection as victims of human trafficking. The agency recorded 576 requests in 2024, 554 in 2025, and 132 as of May 2026, with East Nusa Tenggara, Central Java, and East Java also recording high numbers. LPSK officials stressed the need for cross-sector collaboration extending to the village level to strengthen prevention efforts.

Polda Metro Jaya Equips Personnel with National Insight to Prevent Radicalism

The Metro Jaya Regional Police are providing civil servants with training on national insight and tolerance to counter radicalism and intolerance. The initiative aims to strengthen ideological resilience among personnel amidst increasingly complex threats, including those spread through digital content. The programme reinforces the importance of Pancasila and national unity as guiding principles in their duties.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Outlines Strategies to Boost National Automotive Industry at GIIAS 2026

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga is showcasing its integrated digital energy ecosystem at GIIAS 2026, aiming to support the transformation of Indonesia's automotive sector. The state-owned company is highlighting its MyPertamina app, which has grown to 31 million users, alongside its range of quality and environmentally friendly fuel products. The initiative focuses on providing accessible energy solutions and digital services to align with the evolving mobility needs of the public.

House Commission II Holds Meeting with Home Affairs Minister and Regional Heads, Attended by Dasco

The House of Representatives' Commission II convened a working meeting with Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian and regional leaders to discuss key issues, including regional head remuneration and central-regional fiscal relations. The meeting, attended by Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, focused on listening to the aspirations of regents and mayors. Discussions centred on resolving problems related to revenue-sharing funds and boosting locally generated revenue to stimulate regional and national economic growth.

Honda Challenges Chinese EVs in Indonesia with Super-ONE Launch

Honda has unveiled its compact electric vehicle, the Super-ONE, at the GIIAS 2026 in Indonesia, marking its Southeast Asian debut and a renewed electrification strategy. The company is emphasising driving pleasure over specifications, claiming the model retains a 'fun to drive' character. Official pricing will be announced in August, with an initial limited release of 100 units planned for 2026 to gauge market response.

Prabowo Departs for Central Java to Inaugurate Semarang Tawang Station

President Prabowo Subianto travelled to Semarang to officially inaugurate the restored Semarang Tawang Station, a cultural heritage site dating back to 1914. The restoration marks the first time the government has formally refurbished the historic railway station. The President is also scheduled to test a new luxury train service and inaugurate a mass housing contract scheme in Batang.

West Java DPRD Urges Task Force to Combat Illegal Migrant Worker Departures

The West Java Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) is urging the Cianjur Regency to form a task force to prevent residents from becoming illegal migrant workers. The initiative aims to provide education and protection against non-procedural departures, which often lead to exploitation. The Cianjur Regent supports the plan, citing the need to protect citizens from fraud and the dangers of working abroad without proper documentation.

AI Restores Dragon Jars in Two Months, a Task That Took 40 Years

Researchers in Jingdezhen, China, have used artificial intelligence to dramatically accelerate the restoration of imperial Ming Dynasty dragon jars. The AI-assisted process matched shards equivalent to one and a half jars in under two months, a task that previously took nearly 40 years of manual effort. The breakthrough coincides with the recent UNESCO World Heritage listing of the Jingdezhen porcelain industrial site.

DKI optimises TPS 3R to reduce waste sent to Bantargebang

The Jakarta provincial government is maximising the use of Reduce, Reuse, Recycle (TPS 3R) waste processing sites to significantly cut the volume of rubbish sent to the Bantargebang landfill. Governor Pramono Anung highlighted that optimising these facilities, such as the one in Menteng Atas which processes 50 tonnes of waste daily, is crucial while awaiting the construction of waste-to-energy plants. The initiative involves converting waste into alternative fuel materials and aims to increase operational shifts to boost capacity.

China Embassy in Japan Activates Emergency Response After Kumamoto Earthquake

The Chinese Embassy and consulates in Japan have activated emergency protocols following a devastating magnitude 7.1 earthquake in Kumamoto Prefecture. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning confirmed the mission is closely monitoring the situation and stands ready to assist Chinese nationals. The quake has caused significant casualties and infrastructure damage, forcing major semiconductor and automotive plants to halt operations.

32 Named Suspects in Little Aresha Daycare Case, Latest Include Kindergarten Teachers

The investigation into alleged child abuse at the Little Aresha daycare in Yogyakarta has expanded, with police naming 32 suspects, including two kindergarten teachers. Four suspects were questioned on Tuesday, three of whom were detained, while one caregiver was not detained due to recently giving birth. The case came to light after a police raid in April 2026 uncovered children being tied up and subjected to inhumane treatment.

Kadin Chairman Anindya Bakrie Meets Cabinet Secretary Teddy to Discuss Electricity Industry Development

Kadin Chairman Anindya Bakrie met with Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya to discuss strengthening synergy between the government and businesses to drive inclusive economic growth. The talks covered the development of the electricity, garment, and textile industries, as well as support for national downstreaming and the electric vehicle ecosystem. Bakrie also presented the book 'We Buy from Indonesia', which highlights the country's role in the global supply chain.

Indomobil and BYD Await Certainty on EV Incentives

Major automotive distributors Indomobil and BYD are awaiting clarity from the Indonesian government on the new electric vehicle incentive scheme. The government has indicated that incentives will no longer be distributed evenly across all brands and may be linked to national vehicle development programmes. Industry players stress that clear regulations are essential for both business planning and consumer confidence.

UBSI Lecturer Appointed as National Instructor for President's Priority Programme

Wanty Eka Jayanti, a lecturer at Bina Sarana Informatika University (UBSI) Pontianak, has been appointed by the Ministry of Cooperatives to train managers of the Merah Putih Village Cooperative. The training, held in Singkawang, is part of a strategic government programme under Presidential Decree No. 7 of 2026. Her involvement highlights the role of higher education in strengthening human resource capacity for national development.

Panasonic GOBEL Group Awards Scholarships to Outstanding Students

The Panasonic GOBEL Group has awarded the Panasonic Scholarship Indonesia 2026 to 22 high-achieving students as part of its '70 Years of GOBEL Serving the Nation' commemoration. The programme, which has run since 1999, supports undergraduate, diploma, and postgraduate students from leading Indonesian universities. The initiative underscores the group's commitment to investing in youth education and leadership development to foster future contributors to society.