Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 30 July 2026

Showing 101-150 of 1,630 articles

Bawaslu Partners with PPATK to Track Illicit Digital Transactions in Money Politics

Indonesia's Election Supervisory Agency (Bawaslu) is collaborating with the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (PPATK) to detect suspected money politics conducted through digital transactions. The partnership aims to leverage financial intelligence data to uncover suspicious transactions that are increasingly difficult to trace without technological support. Bawaslu also emphasised the importance of collaboration with academics and civil society to strengthen participatory oversight and ensure electoral integrity.

Japan praises Indonesia's role in ASEAN and Asian leadership

Japan's Ambassador to ASEAN, Yonetani Koji, has lauded Indonesia's consistent initiative-taking role in Southeast Asia and beyond. He expressed hope that Jakarta will continue its pivotal leadership in fostering regional cooperation that adapts to evolving challenges. The ambassador highlighted Indonesia's foundational role in ASEAN and its key contribution to shaping the bloc's Indo-Pacific strategy.

Two Families, Two Stories, One Shared Assurance

Two Indonesian families from different economic backgrounds share their experiences with the National Health Insurance (JKN) programme. Despite one family being a self-funded Class 1 participant and the other receiving government-funded contributions, both received comprehensive care without significant financial burden. Their stories highlight the programme's role in providing equitable healthcare access through a mutual cooperation principle.

Creative economy new engine for Indonesia's economic growth: Minister

Indonesia's Creative Economy Minister has identified the creative economy as a key driver of national economic growth, emphasising the need for high-quality job creation over mere employment numbers. Speaking in Surabaya, he highlighted East Java's potential and called for upskilling in digital technology and artificial intelligence, alongside product downstreaming to challenge foreign dominance in the domestic market. The sector attracted Rp183.01 trillion in investment in 2025, a significant year-on-year increase, underscoring its growing importance to the country's economic strategy.

BPOM Enlists Scouts, Not Police, to Safeguard Medicine and Food Safety

Indonesia's Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) is strengthening its oversight strategy by training 100 Scout members in Surabaya as young pioneers for medicine and food safety. The initiative aims to expand public education beyond official inspections by deploying these cadres to schools, universities, and communities. BPOM views this as a long-term investment to broaden educational outreach and enhance public health protection.

BI Tasikmalaya Strengthens Inflation Control via Sindang Priatim

Bank Indonesia's Tasikmalaya office, in collaboration with local governments in East Priangan, has launched an AI-powered platform called Sindang Priatim to enhance cross-regional food price and supply control. The platform integrates data from multiple districts and features an early warning system to support more targeted inflation policy. This initiative aims to enable earlier identification of price pressures and improve coordination among regional inflation control teams.

US Missile Reserves Dwindle as Ukraine Presses for New Supplies

The United States' stockpile of key air defence missiles has been significantly depleted, according to a report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies. The analysis highlights a sharp decline in Patriot and THAAD interceptor numbers over a five-month period. The revelation comes amid sustained pressure from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for Washington to deliver hundreds more Patriot missiles before winter.

OJK says young people can drive economy through digital finance

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) believes the younger generation can become a key engine of economic growth by leveraging digital financial innovation. High internet penetration among the country's youth provides a foundation for expanding financial inclusion and accelerating digital economic transformation. The OJK also stressed the importance of building a savings culture early and improving financial literacy to capitalise on the demographic bonus before 2038.

Experts Highlight Constitutional and Methodological Issues in BPKP Audit

Legal and economic experts have raised concerns over the constitutional validity and inconsistent methodology of state loss calculations by the Development Finance Comptroller (BPKP) in corruption cases. They argue that a Constitutional Court ruling designates the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) as the sole authority for such calculations, and that the BPKP's lack of standardised methodology undermines legal certainty and the credibility of the justice system.

Australia Supports 50% Vehicle Tax Discount for Persons with Disabilities in NTT

The Australian government is backing a policy by the East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) provincial administration that provides a 50 per cent reduction in vehicle tax for persons with disabilities. The support is channelled through technical assistance from the SKALA programme, aimed at strengthening public services. NTT officials stated the initiative, reinforced by a new gubernatorial regulation, demonstrates the province's commitment to inclusivity and improving basic services for the disabled community.

With BRI's Support, Batang Coffee Farmer Takes Her Blend to the World

Ika Yuanita, a coffee entrepreneur from Batang, Central Java, transformed her small business, PT Kingkaf Makmur Sejahtera, from door-to-door sales into an international brand. With crucial support from BRI's microfinance, digital payment systems, and mentoring through the Rumah BUMN programme, she overcame pandemic challenges and shifted her business model. Kingkaf products are now exported to markets including the United States, Japan, and Singapore.

Mother Discards Newborn's Body in South Tangerang, Claiming Shame Over Pregnancy Out of Wedlock

A newborn baby girl was found dead on the terrace of a clinic in Pondok Aren, South Tangerang, after allegedly being abandoned by her mother. Police arrested the 38-year-old mother, who confessed to the act, citing shame over a pregnancy resulting from a relationship outside of marriage. The suspect had reportedly attempted to terminate the seven-month pregnancy by consuming herbal concoctions before giving birth at the clinic.

Foreign Pilot Arrested at Soekarno-Hatta Airport for Smuggling 26 kg of Ecstasy and Methamphetamine

A foreign airline pilot, Mohd Saufi bin Othman, was arrested at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport after customs officials discovered 26 kilograms of ecstasy and methamphetamine in his luggage. The suspect, who tested positive for drug use, admitted to being a repeat courier and was promised a payment of Rp 50,000 for the delivery. Authorities are continuing the investigation to uncover the broader international drug network.

KPU Proposes Public Media Subsidies and Incentives for Female Candidates in Election Law Revision

The Indonesian General Elections Commission (KPU) has proposed non-cash campaign subsidies using public media and incentives for parties nominating more women as part of the Election Law revision. Commissioner August Mellaz also highlighted the need to adjust commissioner terms to avoid ending mid-election stage and warned against granting excessive legal immunity to election organisers.

Russian Missile Breaches 'Gateway' of NATO, Creates Massive Crater in Poland

A suspected Russian Kh-101 cruise missile penetrated NATO airspace and struck a field near Tarnawa-Kolonia in eastern Poland, triggering a powerful explosion and creating a large crater. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk confirmed the projectile's origin and stated that forces were prepared to shoot it down had it continued its trajectory. The incident occurred amid a massive Russian aerial assault on Ukraine, which killed at least eight civilians and prompted hundreds to seek shelter.

AGO Places Witness in Febrie Adriansyah Money Laundering Case Under LPSK Protection

The Attorney General's Office (AGO) has placed a key witness, Ferry Hongkiriwang, under the protection of the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) in the money laundering case against former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah. The move is intended to ensure the witness's security and facilitate the ongoing investigation. The AGO is still gathering information and has not yet determined if Ferry will be designated as a justice collaborator.

PTDI Delivers Eighth NC212i Aircraft to Strengthen Indonesian Air Force

State-owned aircraft manufacturer PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI) has delivered the eighth NC212i unit to the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) as part of a nine-aircraft contract with the Ministry of Defence. The multirole aircraft, equipped with modern MTV-27 propellers, is configured for troop transport, rainmaking, and aerial photography. The final unit in the order is scheduled for delivery in October 2027.

Digital Transactions for MSMEs Could Unlock Alternative Credit Access

Digital transaction footprints from women-owned micro and ultra-micro enterprises could provide an alternative pathway to bank credit eligibility, according to Women's World Banking. The organisation notes that while 64 percent of Indonesian MSMEs are owned by women, nearly 75 percent still lack access to formal credit despite generating regular income. Utilising data from QRIS transactions, bill payments, and digital sales could enable financial institutions to assess creditworthiness beyond traditional collateral and loan history.

KPK Urges Public to Report Extortion Schemes Disguised as Case Management

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has warned the public to be vigilant against fraudsters posing as officials and offering to settle corruption cases for a fee. The agency stressed that all legal processes are conducted strictly according to regulations, with no room for negotiation outside official procedures. The warning follows the arrest of the Pemalang Regent and an alleged police officer involved in a dual extortion plot.

IPR: Government Committed to Reforming Ministries and Institutions

The Executive Director of Indonesia Political Review (IPR) stated that the government's ongoing reforms across ministries and institutions demonstrate a commitment to clean and accountable governance. He noted that a temporary dip in public satisfaction is a natural consequence of exposing corruption, which reflects more active oversight rather than worsening graft. The ultimate success of President Prabowo's agenda will depend on translating these clean-up efforts into tangible improvements in public services and equitable law enforcement.

Prabowo leads signing of 62,000 subsidized home mortgages

President Prabowo Subianto has officially launched a mass mortgage signing ceremony for 62,000 subsidised housing units under the FLPP scheme in Batang, Central Java. The event, attended by several cabinet ministers, connected beneficiaries from regions including Papua, Aceh, and East Nusa Tenggara via video conference. The programme aims to provide affordable home ownership for low-income families, with monthly instalments reported as low as Rp1.3 million.

AGO Confirms Tan Kian and Ferry in Asabri-Jiwasraya Case

The Attorney General's Office has questioned businessmen Tan Kian and Ferry Hongkiriwang regarding their potential involvement in the corruption cases of PT Asabri and Jiwasraya. The confirmation took place during their examination as witnesses in a money laundering investigation against former Jampidsus official Febrie Adriansyah. The probe is part of a broader effort following the transfer of evidence, including 74 kilograms of gold, from the national police.

Sailun Targets Agricultural Sector with MAXIM Tyre Technology

Tyre manufacturer Sailun is targeting Indonesia's agricultural and industrial sectors with its MAXAM tyre technology, showcased at the INAGRITECH 2026 exhibition in Jakarta. The company claims the technology can boost productivity and reduce the total cost of ownership for heavy machinery and agricultural equipment. Sailun aims to address operational challenges in agriculture, construction, and forestry by offering tyres with enhanced durability and longer service life.

West Bandung Regency's Strategy to Erode Unemployment Slowly Bears Fruit

The West Bandung Regency administration is intensifying efforts to reduce unemployment, which fell to 6.60 per cent in August 2025 from 6.10 per cent the previous year. Despite the improving rate, Regent Jeje Ritchie Ismail stressed the need to expand job opportunities as the labour force continues to grow. Programmes include competency-based training, job fairs, apprenticeships, and facilitated placement for Indonesian migrant workers.

Former Komnas HAM Chief: Human Rights Bill Answers Challenges of the Times

A former chairman of Indonesia's National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) has stated that the proposed Human Rights Bill is crucial for modernising the country's legal framework. The bill aims to update the 1999 Human Rights Law by addressing contemporary issues such as corporate responsibility, environmental rights, and the protection of vulnerable groups. The legislation, which targets enactment by 2026, is currently undergoing public consultation and is intended to strengthen the state's obligation to uphold human rights.

Iran Successfully 'Deceives' Trump, Trades Oil in Waters Off Indonesia

Iranian oil tankers are evading US sanctions by conducting ship-to-ship transfers in the Outer Port Limits off Malaysia, near Indonesian waters, to supply Chinese independent refineries. The trade persists despite a US naval blockade and the ongoing US-Israel conflict with Iran, facilitated by China's alternative payment system. Malaysia has recently tightened its laws to curb such illegal maritime activities, but significant volumes of sanctioned oil continue to flow.

Human Rights Ministry Targets 400 Human Rights Activists by 2027

The Indonesian Ministry of Human Rights aims to expand its network of village-level human rights activists, known as Penggerak HAM, to 400 by 2027. The programme is designed to strengthen the protection of human rights at the grassroots level by identifying local issues and mapping vulnerable populations. The activists will be tasked with reporting on community conditions and potential rights violations to enable early intervention by the government.

South Kalimantan Forestry Service Launches 'Rimba Mart' to Boost Non-Timber Forest Products

The South Kalimantan Forestry Service has inaugurated 'Rimba Mart', a new initiative designed to promote and market non-timber forest products (NTFPs) from local farmer groups. Located at the Tropical Rainforest Park in Banjarbaru, the outlet aims to increase the economic value of commodities derived from forest and land rehabilitation efforts. Officials hope the platform will expand market access, improve the welfare of forest farmer groups, and support sustainable environmental programmes.

From Food and Mining to AI: Assessing Indonesia–US Economic Cooperation

A recent meeting between US industrialists and the Indonesian Ambassador to the US highlights Indonesia's position as a strategic investment destination in Asia. The discussions covered diverse sectors including aerospace, mining, technology, and agriculture, while addressing regulatory improvements needed to attract further global capital.

Culture Minister Fadli Zon to Build Indonesia's First Film Museum in Kota Tua

Minister of Culture Fadli Zon has announced plans to establish Indonesia's first film museum by repurposing a heritage building in Jakarta's Old Town. The initiative is part of a broader cultural revitalisation project that will also see the creation of music, photography, and architecture museums in Bandung, Semarang, and Surabaya. The first phase of these developments is scheduled to commence early this year.

Rice Price Surge Set to Drive Inflation in North Sumatra in July 2026

North Sumatra is projected to record inflation in July 2026, primarily driven by a surge in rice prices and other key food commodities. An economist from the Islamic University of North Sumatra warned that rising costs have also spread to non-food sectors, including household goods and building materials. The government is urged to remain vigilant as future inflation may be influenced by weather patterns and the weakening rupiah.

State Secretary Speaks Out on Early August Reshuffle Rumours, Mentions Vacant Deputy Minister Posts

State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has addressed speculation about a cabinet reshuffle in early August, stating no such discussions have taken place. He noted, however, that President Prabowo Subianto may appoint officials to fill currently vacant positions, including the deputy minister roles for Agriculture and Immigration and Corrections. Prasetyo emphasised that the president has no immediate agenda to replace serving ministers.

House Journalists Accuse PDIP Lawmaker Deddy Sitorus of Insulting Press, Demand Apology

The Parliamentary Press Coordinating Body (KWP) has accused PDIP lawmaker Deddy Sitorus of demeaning journalists by likening them to a 'circus mob' during a commission meeting. The KWP is demanding a public apology within 24 hours and plans to report the incident to the House Ethics Council. Sitorus has denied the accusation, claiming his remark was aimed at the disorderly situation in the meeting room and not at the press.

Ministry, Regional Government Coordinate to Monitor Handling of Child Sexual Abuse Case in North Sumatra

The Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection is coordinating with North Sumatra provincial government to ensure the handling of an alleged child sexual abuse case in Tanjung Balai prioritises the victim's best interests. The 13-year-old male victim is receiving legal, medical, and psychological support, while the alleged perpetrator has been named a suspect. The ministry has urged a professional and transparent investigation.

Padang City Government Cleans Batang Arau River Ahead of 357th Anniversary

The Padang City Government is dismantling four shipwrecks along the Batang Arau River to ensure the smooth running of the Selaju Sampan race, a key event for the city's 357th anniversary. The clean-up, which began on 15 July 2026, is a collaborative effort involving local authorities and the Ministry of Public Works. Officials confirmed the operation has proceeded smoothly with the cooperation of the ship owners.

Sparks from Stove Cause Major Fire at Tofu Factory

A tofu processing factory in Cimahi, West Java, was completely destroyed by fire on Thursday, with estimated losses reaching hundreds of millions of rupiah. Firefighters faced significant challenges due to the narrow and winding access road, delaying efforts to extinguish the blaze. The fire is believed to have originated from sparks emitted by a cooking stove.

Mayapada Hospital Offers TAVI Procedure to Treat Aortic Stenosis

Mayapada Hospital has introduced Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI), a minimally invasive procedure for severe aortic stenosis, eliminating the need for open-heart surgery. The hospital's Cardiovascular Centre provides comprehensive cardiac care, from early detection to rehabilitation, supported by a multidisciplinary team. This service aims to reduce the need for Indonesians to seek such treatment abroad.

Pramono Claims Several Jakarta Public Facilities Built Without Regional Budget

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has stated that a number of public facilities in the capital are being constructed without using the Regional Budget (APBD). He highlighted the use of creative financing schemes, including floor area ratio incentives and private sector cooperation, to fund projects. This approach is being pursued amid central government cuts to regional transfer funds.

BRI Mantri's Presence Drives the Pulse of the Economy in Talaud

A BRI loan officer in the remote Talaud Islands travels for hours to serve hundreds of small business clients, demonstrating the bank's commitment to financial inclusion. The officer, Andrew Christy Darea, finds fulfilment in witnessing his clients' businesses grow from small ventures into enterprises that create local employment. BRI's corporate secretary highlighted that such dedication allows the bank to understand community needs and support sustainable growth for micro, small, and medium enterprises.

Mumbai's Mangroves Under Threat as Coastal Road Project Sparks Environmental Outcry

A major coastal road project in Mumbai threatens to destroy approximately 45,000 mangrove trees, sparking alarm among environmentalists who warn it will remove the city's natural defence against tidal flooding and climate change. The Bombay High Court has ordered compensatory planting of 174,000 mangroves, but critics argue new saplings cannot instantly replace the protective function of mature forests. The state government insists the project balances development with conservation, while experts call for comprehensive drainage and climate adaptation measures.

Lesca Gadai Premier: Gold price surge opens liquidity opportunities for businesses

PT Lesca Gadai Premier highlights that the rising global price of gold and precious metals presents an opportunity for entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals to secure additional liquidity. The company offers asset-based financing, allowing clients to use luxury items such as jewellery and premium watches as collateral without relinquishing ownership. This scheme provides an alternative for business actors needing working capital, especially during mid-year financial evaluations.

Elnusa Posts 29 Percent Surge in Net Profit for First Half of 2026

PT Elnusa Tbk, a Pertamina upstream subholding company, reported a net profit of Rp435 billion for the first half of 2026, a 29 percent increase year-on-year. The integrated energy services firm also saw revenue rise 9 percent to Rp7.6 trillion, driven by improved earnings quality and operational efficiency. Management expressed optimism for sustained growth in the second half, citing rising demand for integrated and technology-based energy services.

State Palace Explains Reasons for Performance Allowance Increase for TNI Soldiers and Defence Ministry Staff

The Indonesian government has justified a recent increase in performance allowances for Indonesian Military (TNI) personnel and Ministry of Defence employees, citing that their remuneration had not been adjusted for several years. Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi stated that President Prabowo Subianto has also raised allowances for teachers and health workers serving in underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost (3T) regions. The policy was formalised through Presidential Regulations Number 42 and 43 of 2026.

KPK Urges Public to Be Wary of Case-Fixing Scams

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has warned the public about extortion schemes involving individuals falsely promising to resolve corruption cases. The alert follows the arrest of Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro and a police officer assigned to the KPK. The anti-graft body stressed that all case resolutions strictly follow legal procedure, not negotiation.

CSIS Report: US Patriot Missile Stockpile Drops Significantly

A new report from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) reveals a significant depletion of the United States' Patriot air defence missile inventory. The analysis estimates that between late February and late July, the US used over 1,500 Patriot missiles and up to 218 THAAD interceptors. The findings emerge as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urgently requests 300 additional Patriot missiles before winter.

KSP: Safe and Inclusive Higher Education Crucial for Golden Indonesia

The Presidential Staff Office has emphasised that creating safe and inclusive university environments is essential for achieving the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision. Special Staff member Budi Pramono stated that the success of higher education institutions is now measured by their learning climate and societal impact, not just academic reputation. He called on university leaders to uphold integrity, innovation, and collaboration to produce resilient human resources capable of facing non-military threats.

BAZNAS and LinkAja Syariah Launch Digital Zakat Calculator and Menu

Indonesia's National Zakat Agency (BAZNAS) has partnered with LinkAja Syariah to launch a Zakat Calculator and a dedicated BAZNAS menu within the digital payment app. The initiative aims to simplify the calculation and payment of zakat, infak, and sedekah for the public. Officials hope the collaboration will optimise the national collection of Islamic social funds and strengthen the country's sharia-compliant financial ecosystem.

Astra International posts Rp12.53 trillion profit in first half of 2026

PT Astra International Tbk reported a 19.22 percent year-on-year decline in net profit to Rp12.53 trillion for the first half of 2026, primarily due to weaker contributions from its mining solutions and heavy equipment division. The conglomerate also announced a new corporate strategy focused on its three core businesses and a disciplined capital allocation framework, including a share buyback programme of up to Rp8 trillion. Despite the profit dip, the automotive and financial services segments recorded improved contributions.

Customs and Police Foil Export of 3.4 Tonnes of Illegal Mercury

Indonesian Customs and the National Police have thwarted the illegal export of 3.4 tonnes of liquid mercury worth an estimated Rp17.5 billion from Surabaya to Burkina Faso. The hazardous substance was concealed in plastic bottles and jerry cans hidden among ceramic tiles inside a shipping container. Authorities suspect the mercury was intended for use in gold mining, and the case is under further investigation for violations of customs and environmental laws.

Pergasingan Hill Closed After British Woman's Tearful Video Highlights Rubbish Problem

Bukit Pergasingan in East Lombok has been temporarily closed following a viral video of a British resident crying over the extensive litter at the popular tourist site. The management stated the closure is for evaluation and to formulate new regulations, including a rubbish deposit system. The incident has highlighted a broader waste management issue across the Sembalun region.