Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 30 July 2026

Showing 151-200 of 1,630 articles

Trump's Wars Fuel US Arms Business Boom

Lockheed Martin has secured a massive US$58.6 billion contract to produce Patriot interceptor missiles as the Pentagon rushes to replenish depleted stockpiles. The seven-year deal, driven by conflicts involving Iran and Ukraine, will see the company double its production capacity and expand its workforce. The surge in defence spending reflects growing concerns over the availability of air defence missiles, with the US military reportedly holding fewer than 1,000 ready-to-use Patriots.

Central Java reports housing credit realisation reaches Rp4.96 trillion

The Central Java provincial government has announced that the realisation of housing credit in the region has reached Rp4.96 trillion, benefiting 28,275 debtors. Governor Ahmad Luthfi highlighted that the programme, which includes subsidised interest rates and fee waivers, targets low-income communities and supports the central government's goal of building three million homes. The initiative has received presidential praise, with Bank Jateng noted as a leading distributor of the micro-business credit scheme.

Analyst Says It Is Too Early to Discuss 2029 Presidential Election Based on Dedi Mulyadi Survey

A political communication analyst has urged the public to treat recent survey results on President Prabowo Subianto's approval ratings and Dedi Mulyadi's electability as mere information rather than reacting excessively. He noted that speculation about a rivalry between Prabowo and Dedi Mulyadi for the 2029 presidential election is premature, as both figures belong to the same Gerindra Party. The analyst suggested that the real coalition map for the 2029 race will only crystallise between late 2027 and early 2028.

BGN Bans SPPG from Using Subsidised Goods, Tightens Oversight of Free Nutritious Meal Kitchens in Cimahi and West Bandung

The Bandung Regional Nutrition Service Office is tightening oversight of hundreds of meal preparation kitchens in Cimahi and West Bandung Regency following a directive from the National Nutrition Agency (BGN). The policy explicitly prohibits the use of subsidised commodities such as 3 kg LPG canisters, MinyaKita cooking oil, and SPHP rice in the production of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. Officials have pledged to enforce the rule through layered coordination to ensure no kitchen violates the central government's instruction.

Dengung Landfill in Lebak Catches Fire, Suspected from Grass Burning

A fire broke out at the Dengung landfill in Lebak, Banten, on Thursday afternoon, suspected to have been caused by residents burning wild grass nearby. Firefighters quickly extinguished the blaze, and authorities have warned the public against open burning during the dry season due to the heightened risk of fires spreading.

Kowani Chair Applauds Women Uniting to Uphold Organisation's Dignity

Kowani Chair Nannie Hadi Tjahjanto has praised the solidarity shown by prominent women, member organisations, and legal experts in defending the integrity of the Indonesian Women's Congress. She emphasised that the current struggle is not about personal or factional interests, but about safeguarding the organisation's honour, its constitutional mandate, and the legacy of the women's movement dating back to 1928. Tjahjanto called for continued synergy and resolution of issues through constitutional and legal mechanisms.

Sailun Introduces Maxam Agricultural Tyres in Indonesia

Chinese tyre manufacturer Sailun has launched its Maxam range of off-road tyres in Indonesia, targeting the agricultural, construction, and forestry sectors. The company showcased products designed to enhance operational efficiency and reduce downtime for heavy machinery. The launch aligns with growing demand for durable and cost-effective tyres driven by Indonesia's expanding agricultural and infrastructure activities.

Danamon Economist: BI Rate Could Rise Twice More by End of 2026

Bank Indonesia may have room to raise its benchmark interest rate by a further 50 basis points before the end of the year, according to Bank Danamon economist Irman Faiz. The potential hikes are contingent on persistent global uncertainties and pressure on the rupiah. Faiz also stressed the importance of fiscal discipline and effective policy execution to maintain investor confidence.

Malinau's 'Excellent Village Graduate' Programme Aims to Build the Nation from the Villages

The Malinau Regency in North Kalimantan is implementing a strategic programme called 'Desa Sarjana Unggul' to empower rural communities by funding higher education for local youth. The initiative requires graduates to return and contribute to their home villages, aiming to break the cycle of poverty, reduce urban-rural inequality, and boost the Human Development Index. With over 1,000 applicants for the 2026 intake, the programme seeks to transform peripheral villages into frontline drivers of national development.

New Ecotourism Initiative in Bali Highlights Mangrove Conservation and Green Economy Potential

A new ecotourism initiative at the Batu Lumbang Mangrove Forest, supported by PT PLN Indonesia Power, is drawing tourists to Bali's overlooked mangrove ecosystems while empowering local communities. The project aligns with statements from Indonesia's Environment Minister, who emphasized that mangrove rehabilitation can drive green economic growth through international carbon trading. The initiative offers activities like kayaking and fishing, and is part of a broader national effort spanning 162 locations across 37 provinces.

Milei Signs Decree to Expel Foreigners Inciting Hatred Against Argentina

Argentine President Javier Milei has signed an emergency decree enabling the expulsion and entry ban of foreign nationals who incite hatred against Argentines. The government stated the protection of the nation and its citizens is non-negotiable following recent expressions of hostility. The move appears to respond to a surge in online criticism during the 2026 World Cup, where Argentina has faced several controversies.

Cimahi Government Ensures Food Security Amid Threat of Prolonged Drought

The Cimahi city government has assured residents that food stocks remain sufficient despite the threat of a prolonged dry season. The Food and Agriculture Office confirmed that regional food reserves, including over 73 tonnes of rice stored with Bulog, are ready for distribution in case of emergency. Authorities are also promoting urban farming and local food diversification to strengthen long-term food resilience.

Ministry of Social Affairs Targets Landak for Phase III of 'Sekolah Rakyat' Construction

The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs is processing a proposal to build a 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's School) in Landak Regency, West Kalimantan, aiming for inclusion in the third phase of construction by October. The regency has resolved previous administrative and land-use hurdles, securing a 9-hectare plot in the city centre. The initiative targets the region's poorest families, with over 20,000 residents identified in the lowest two economic deciles.

AGO Names Businessman Nurman Herin as Suspect in Febrie Adriansyah Money Laundering Case

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has named businessman Nurman Herin as a new suspect in a money laundering case involving former junior attorney general for special crimes, Febrie Adriansyah. Herin is accused of participating in the money laundering activities and will be detained for 20 days. This development brings the total number of suspects in the case to two, following the earlier designation of Adriansyah.

AHY Stresses Importance of Empirical Field Data in Policy Formulation

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) has emphasised that empirical field data must serve as the foundation for transforming transmigration areas into new economic growth centres. He made the statement while briefing 1,476 participants of the 2026 Patriot Expedition, who will conduct research across 53 transmigration sites, primarily in eastern Indonesia. The government aims to shift the transmigration paradigm from population relocation to creating attractive, investment-ready regions based on academically rigorous, on-the-ground recommendations.

Waka MPR: Climate Change Opens Opportunities for Indonesia's Economic Growth

Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Eddy Soeparno stated that Indonesia's efforts to tackle climate change are not only crucial for environmental protection but also present new opportunities for economic growth, investment, and job creation. He highlighted the establishment of the Carbon Unit Registry System (SRUK) as a key institutional foundation to transform climate challenges into economic prospects. The government maintains its commitment to aligning economic growth, energy security, and climate mitigation, citing the Abadi Masela project as a prime example.

AGO Names New Suspect in Febrie Adriansyah Money Laundering Case, Nurman Herin Immediately Detained

The Attorney General's Office has named Nurman Herin as a new suspect in a money laundering case linked to former junior attorney general for special crimes, Febrie Adriansyah. Herin is accused of participating in the alleged criminal activity and has been detained for an initial 20 days. The case continues to expand as investigators pursue additional evidence.

Pertamina Strengthens Two Key Areas to Achieve Sustainable Business Transformation

State-owned energy giant Pertamina is intensifying its focus on human capability and corporate culture to embed Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles across its operations. The initiative, driven by the Pertamina Sustainability Academy, recently received top honours in the energy sector. The company views this internal transformation as essential for achieving a just energy transition and supporting its long-term Dual Growth Strategy.

Creative Economy Development a Solution to Curb Youth Unemployment, Says Minister

Creative Economy Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya has stated that developing the creative economy sector could significantly reduce Indonesia's open unemployment rate, which is dominated by young people. With 82.6 per cent of the 7.47 million unemployed being from Gen Z and millennial cohorts, the minister argues the sector aligns with their desire for passion-driven, flexible, and higher-income work. The government is focusing on strengthening the ecosystem through skills enhancement, business mentoring, financing access, and digital technology adoption.

AGO Names New Suspect in Money Laundering Case Involving Former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah

The Attorney General's Office (AGO) has named Nurman Heri as a new suspect in the money laundering case connected to former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah. The suspect, identified as NH, is accused of participating in the illicit financial activities. He has been detained for 20 days at the South Jakarta District Prosecutor's detention centre.

Prabowo Returns to Jakarta Aboard Nusantara Explorer Train After Batang Working Visit

President Prabowo Subianto returned to Jakarta via the premium Nusantara Explorer train service following a working visit to Batang, Central Java. The journey served as a trial run for the new tourist train, which is part of a presidential directive to PT KAI to boost railway-based tourism. Officials stated the domestically produced carriages meet international standards and are expected to attract significant public interest for leisure and corporate events.

Hundreds of Mentawai Residents Undergo Free Cataract Surgery

A free cataract surgery programme in the Mentawai Islands has restored hope for 107 patients, addressing a condition that the Health Ministry says causes 600,000 cases of blindness nationwide. Organised by the Indonesian Ophthalmologists Association and Bakti BCA, the initiative targets individuals whose livelihoods have been severely disrupted by the ailment. One patient, a farmer named Pius Suraki, reported immediate improvement after two years of failing sight, enabling him to plan a return to his fields.

Fauci adamantly refuses to explain COVID-19 at US Senate hearing

Dr Anthony Fauci invoked the Fifth Amendment over 100 times during a three-hour US Senate committee hearing on the COVID-19 pandemic, refusing to answer questions ranging from the virus's origins to the colour of his tie. The hearing follows a congressional investigation suggesting the virus likely originated from a laboratory leak.

Home Affairs Minister Reveals Two Keys to Optimising Public Services

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has highlighted the need to strengthen the capacity of regional heads and provide them with adequate financial support to improve public services. Speaking before the House of Representatives, he noted that the complexity of decentralised governance requires updated regulations and performance-based incentives. He also urged regions to boost local revenue through innovation without burdening the public.

Indonesia targets major progress on waste by end of 2027

President Prabowo Subianto has announced an ambitious target to resolve Indonesia's waste problem by the end of 2027, framing it as a key part of the nation's climate change and sustainable development agenda. Speaking at an event in Central Java, he pledged close coordination between ministries, regional governments, and the public to achieve drastic changes. The government also plans to launch a Cleanest City Competition, offering substantial financial incentives to top-performing regions rather than symbolic awards.

Minister Praises Karo Flower and Fruit Festival for Promoting Agricultural Produce

Cooperatives Minister Ferry Juliantono has lauded the Karo Flower and Fruit Festival as a vital platform for promoting local agricultural products domestically and internationally. He highlighted the event's role in supporting national food security and encouraged the development of cooperatives, including the new Koperasi Desa/Kelurahan Merah Putih programme, to boost the local economy. The festival, recognised nationally, was also praised by regional leaders as a celebration of Karo's natural bounty and cultural heritage.

The Extortion Methods of Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detailed how Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro allegedly extorted approximately Rp1.98 billion from local government officials and private parties. The funds were reportedly intended to bribe individuals connected to a KPK staff member to settle an ongoing investigation into project and position-related graft within the Pemalang administration. The regent and three other suspects, including a police officer assigned to the KPK and his father, have been arrested and named as suspects.

OJK Strategy to Expand MSME Financing Access via Alternative Credit Scoring

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) is strengthening its strategy to broaden financing access for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), particularly the ultra-micro segment, by utilising alternative credit scoring systems. The initiative aims to assist entrepreneurs, predominantly women, who lack formal credit histories or collateral to be assessed for loans by financial institutions. A pilot project connecting dairy farmers in Malang with rural banks and cooperatives has already been developed to demonstrate the scheme's potential.

Trust is the greatest achievement in Japan-ASEAN relations, says ambassador

Japan's Ambassador to ASEAN, Yonetani Koji, has stated that the trust built over decades represents the most significant achievement in the partnership. He highlighted how the relationship, which began with dialogue on synthetic rubber in 1973, has evolved into a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The ambassador noted that facing shared challenges, from the Asian financial crisis to the COVID-19 pandemic, has consistently strengthened the bond between Japan and the regional bloc.

Breast cancer not solely triggered by genetic factors, says oncologist

An oncologist has dispelled the myth that breast cancer only affects women with a family history of the disease, emphasising that its causes are multifactorial. Factors such as high oestrogen levels, electromagnetic radiation, and unhealthy lifestyles can also trigger the condition. Early detection is crucial as breast cancer often presents no symptoms in its initial stages, significantly improving the chances of recovery.

Immigration Chief: Tightened Visa-Free Policy and Selective Approach Do Not Deter Tourists

Indonesia's Director General of Immigration asserts that the stricter visa-free visit policy and selective approach are not hindering foreign tourist arrivals, citing a 14 per cent increase in visits from 2019 to 2024. The policy shift, which reduced visa-free access from 190 to 20 countries, aims to balance national security with economic benefits by attracting higher-quality visitors. The discussion also highlighted the success of the golden visa scheme, which has generated Rp52.1 trillion in foreign exchange.

Prabowo: Nature Must Be Preserved, No Arbitrary Tree Felling

President Prabowo Subianto has urged regional leaders and government agencies to safeguard Indonesia's natural environment, emphasising that its beauty is a key draw for foreign tourists. He highlighted that tackling the nation's waste problem within a year and maintaining clean rivers are top priorities. The president also called for a halt to indiscriminate tree felling and proposed planting hundreds of millions of new trees to preserve the country's aesthetic appeal.

Ebola Outbreak in DR Congo Kills 1,521, Risk Remains High

The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has claimed 1,521 lives out of 3,442 confirmed cases, with a fatality rate of 44 per cent. The World Health Organisation previously declared the cross-border outbreak a public health emergency of international concern. The UN agency assesses the risk of wider regional spread as still high, necessitating strengthened control and surveillance measures.

US Intelligence Community Alleges China Has Obtained Data on 220 Million American Voters

The US intelligence community has alleged that China acquired voter registration data on 220 million Americans through purchase, theft, or hacking. A White House fact sheet warns this data could be manipulated to disenfranchise individual voters or groups, potentially causing delays or forcing the use of provisional ballots. The document defines such actions as foreign election interference.

KPK reveals how police officer and his father allegedly blackmailed Pemalang Regent

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detailed how an administrative staff member allegedly leaked internal investigation information to his father, who then used it to extort the Regent of Pemalang. The father, Lilik Budi Suprianto, reportedly approached Regent Anom Widiyantoro by claiming to have inside knowledge of a KPK probe in the regency and showing administrative documents as proof. The KPK is now investigating whether the pair conducted similar schemes in other regions.

Analyst Responds to Shadow Cabinet: If There's No Light, It Doesn't Move

Political analyst Hendri Satrio has criticised the recent formation of a 'Shadow Cabinet' by Indonesian academics and activists, arguing the name implies a lack of independent initiative. He suggested the group should adopt a more assertive identity, such as 'Rival Cabinet', to demonstrate they have their own policy agenda rather than merely reacting to the government. Satrio warned that a purely reactive stance risks losing public credibility.

Amran Orders Revocation of Problematic Fortified Rice Distribution Permits

The Head of Indonesia's National Food Agency (Bapanas), Amran Sulaiman, has ordered the revocation of distribution permits for several brands of fortified rice after laboratory tests revealed they failed to meet nutritional standards. The move follows an inspection in Jakarta where the majority of samples did not comply with regulations, with some products sold at prices far exceeding premium rice despite their substandard quality. Bapanas will expand its oversight to 40 brands across 11 provinces and pursue legal action through the Food Task Force.

Two Villages in West Manggarai Clash Twice Over Disputed Customary Land

Residents of Kampung Rareng and Mbehal in West Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, have clashed twice over a long-standing customary land dispute. Mediation efforts by local authorities have so far failed to resolve the conflict, which saw vehicles torched and structures demolished. The disputed area is located within a new tourism development zone near Labuan Bajo.

West Jakarta City Administration Demolishes 20 Semi-Permanent Structures in Cengkareng

The West Jakarta city administration has dismantled 20 semi-permanent vendor stalls illegally occupying a 3,300-square-metre provincial government asset in Duri Kosambi. Officials stated the enforcement followed a series of legal warnings and aims to reclaim the land for its intended purpose as a sports facility. The area, which became a makeshift market during the COVID-19 pandemic, is scheduled for redevelopment and closure by the end of July 2026.

Minister Denies Imminent Cabinet Reshuffle Amid August Speculation

State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi has stated that President Prabowo Subianto currently has no plans for a cabinet reshuffle, addressing speculation about changes in early August. He acknowledged that any future adjustments would likely be to fill vacant positions, such as the Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Deputy Minister of Immigration and Corrections. Prasetyo confirmed no discussions on a reshuffle have taken place with the president.

Home Affairs Minister Urges Strengthening of Regional Head Capacity for Optimal Services

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has called for enhanced capacity building and financial support for regional heads to improve governance and public services. He highlighted the need to review outdated regulations on regional head finances and encouraged innovation to boost locally-generated revenue without burdening citizens. Tito also assured that the government is coordinating with the Ministry of Finance to assist regions with limited fiscal capacity, particularly regarding personnel spending.

ATM Skimming Trio Caught and Tied Up by Residents in South Tangerang

Three men attempting to tamper with ATMs at a hospital in Pamulang, South Tangerang, were apprehended by local residents and handed over to the police. The suspects, who were armed with sharp weapons, had been under surveillance following numerous reports of customers losing money from the machines. Police confirmed the suspects resisted arrest and were subsequently shot with measured force.

Pangkas Birokrasi, Kementerian Kehutanan Digitalisasi Perizinan Angkut Satwa dan Tumbuhan

Kementerian Kehutanan meluncurkan portal digital PeSATS untuk mempercepat perizinan angkut tumbuhan dan satwa liar, memangkas waktu proses dari berbulan-bulan menjadi hitungan hari atau bahkan 60 menit untuk ekspor-impor. Sistem ini terintegrasi dengan OSS dan INSW guna meningkatkan transparansi, memutus rantai pemalsuan dokumen, serta memperkuat pengawasan legalitas perdagangan spesies. Langkah ini merupakan bagian dari arahan Menteri Kehutanan untuk memangkas birokrasi dan memberikan kepastian layanan kepada masyarakat dan pelaku usaha.

Central Java Records Highest Housing Loan Realisation, Total Reaches IDR 4.96 Trillion

Central Java has emerged as the top province in Indonesia for housing loan realisation, with total credit disbursement reaching IDR 4.96 trillion as of late July 2026. The achievement, covering 28,275 debtors, was highlighted during a mass contract signing event attended by President Prabowo Subianto. The programme, which includes subsidised mortgages and construction loans, is primarily aimed at low-income earners to support the government's target of building three million homes.

UK Invests Rp202.9 Trillion in Dreadnought-Class Nuclear Submarines

The United Kingdom has committed £8.4 billion to advance its Dreadnought-class nuclear submarine programme, a cornerstone of its long-term maritime deterrent strategy. The investment will fund the construction of four vessels, with the first expected to enter service in the early 2030s. The announcement comes amid scrutiny over a wider defence budget shortfall, with a former minister noting that £4.7 billion of allocated funds remains unfunded pending a future spending review.

Australia Sues Telegram Over Terrorism Content, Threatens IDR 688 Billion Fine

Australia's eSafety Commissioner has launched legal action against Telegram for allegedly failing to promptly remove terrorist and violent extremist content. The platform is accused of allowing graphic material, including videos of mass shootings, to remain accessible for weeks. Telegram faces potential civil penalties of up to AUD 54.6 million.

Elon Musk Predicts AI Will Surpass Human Intelligence Within Five Years

Elon Musk has forecast that artificial intelligence will exceed the combined intelligence of all humans within five years, potentially leading to a loss of human control over the technology within a decade. Speaking to The Economist, he described a future of 'extraordinary abundance' but stressed the need for AI developers to collaborate on safety measures, including limited early access testing. Musk also used the interview to criticise OpenAI's shift to a for-profit model and praised Anthropic's leadership.

Indonesian Women Urged to View Technological Advancement as an Opportunity for Learning and Innovation

The Dharma Wanita Persatuan (DWP) of the DPD RI Secretariat General has called on Indonesian women to embrace technological progress as a means for growth rather than a threat. The message was delivered during a seminar commemorating the organisation's 7th anniversary, which focused on building adaptive, intelligent, and inspirational women in the digital era. Officials stressed the importance of using technology wisely, particularly artificial intelligence, to strengthen family economies and personal development.

200 Students Learn Diplomacy at Model UN Conference in Pekanbaru

Approximately 200 students from various schools and universities participated in the Asia Youth International Model United Nations (AYIMUN) in Pekanbaru, Riau, to debate global issues. The conference, supported by state-owned energy firm PT Pertamina, featured simulations of UN sessions focusing on inclusive education and electric vehicle battery waste management. Organisers stated the event aims to equip young Indonesians with skills in diplomacy, negotiation, and policy-making.

Industry Minister urges fulfilment of Rp21.2 T investment commitment in LCEV programme

Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita has called on automotive manufacturers to accelerate the realisation of their Rp21.2 trillion investment pledges under the Low Carbon Emission Vehicle (LCEV) programme. While the scheme has boosted local component suppliers and employment, only Rp5.5 trillion has been invested to date. The government is offering policy certainty in return for deeper supply chain development and positioning Indonesia as a regional production and export hub.