Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 30 July 2026

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West Bandung Police Arrest Father for Viral Child Abuse Video

Police in West Bandung, West Java, have arrested a man suspected of physically abusing his child and recording the act, after a video of the incident went viral on social media. The footage shows the child with blood streaming from his mouth and nose as the alleged perpetrator, identified as the victim's father, slaps and pulls the boy's hair. Authorities are currently investigating the motive behind the assault.

Twilite Orchestra's Journey: From a Beachside Stage to 35 Years of Harmony

Addie MS recounts the humble and sceptical beginnings of Twilite Orchestra, which started as a one-off performance for a housewarming party in Anyer. Despite initial doubts from peers who predicted it would last only two months, the ensemble has defied expectations to celebrate its 35th anniversary. The founder credits a blend of perseverance and destiny for the orchestra's longevity in Indonesia's entertainment industry.

Expert: Election Law Revision Must Reform KPU Institutions, DKPP Selection, and Bawaslu Accountability

A legal expert has urged that the revision of Indonesia's Election Law be used to strengthen electoral institutions. Ida Budhiati highlighted the need for a more transparent selection mechanism for the Election Organiser Honour Council (DKPP) and reinforced accountability for both DKPP and the Elections Supervisory Body (Bawaslu). She also called for a permanent budgeting model for the General Elections Commission (KPU) to reflect its status as a permanent national body.

Deputy Minister urges regional governments to create spaces for youth

Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Population and Family Development has called on regional governments to provide dedicated spaces and programmes for young people, citing initiatives like boxing rings to channel youth energy and address social issues. The ministry is also rolling out a Population Development Roadmap to guide local authorities in tackling demographic challenges and improving human resources. The efforts are part of broader strategies to support adolescent mental health and prepare for the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision.

KPK Issues 72 Investigation Warrants and Conducts 12 Sting Operations in First Half of 2026

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has reported issuing 72 investigation warrants and conducting 12 sting operations during the first semester of 2026. A total of 119 defendants have been brought to court, surpassing the figure from the previous semester. The anti-graft body emphasised that law enforcement is not merely about naming suspects but ensuring legal certainty and accountability, while also noting that asset recovery through grants and status transfers has reached Rp 229 billion.

Police Arrest Hacker Who Breached Hundreds of Indonesian University Websites for Online Gambling Promotion

East Java Police have arrested a man for hacking hundreds of Indonesian educational and government websites to redirect their traffic to online gambling promotions. The suspect, a self-taught hacker, exploited security vulnerabilities to take control of the sites, which he then sold via Telegram, earning an estimated cumulative profit of up to IDR 500 million.

Indonesia Discusses Free Trade with Rwanda to Open Market Access

Indonesia is negotiating a preferential trade agreement with Rwanda as part of a broader strategy to diversify its export markets into Africa. The discussions, involving multiple Indonesian ministries and the Chamber of Commerce, follow reciprocal high-level visits between Jakarta and Kigali. The agreement aims to strengthen economic ties and open new market access for Indonesian goods.

Pertamina Wins Outstanding SDG Innovator 2026 for Bioenergy Breakthrough

Indonesia's state energy firm Pertamina has secured the Outstanding SDG Innovator 2026 award from the UN Global Compact for its 'Bioenergy Lestari' programme. The initiative integrates social forestry with renewable energy production, aiming to strengthen national energy security while creating sustainable business opportunities. A pilot project cultivating sweet sorghum for bioethanol is already underway in Central Java.

UMJ Signs MoU with Tulang Bawang and West Tulang Bawang Regencies to Strengthen Educational Collaboration

Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta (UMJ) has formalised a partnership with the regional governments of Tulang Bawang and West Tulang Bawang to enhance educational development and human resources. The agreement includes plans for an integrated school and aims to expand access to higher education, supported by a government programme with unfilled quotas. Both regents expressed strong support for the initiative, highlighting its potential to improve community welfare and regional human resource quality.

Prabowo Trials KAI's Luxurious Nusantara Explorer Train

President Prabowo Subianto has trialled the Nusantara Explorer, a new luxury tourist train developed by state-owned railway company KAI on his direct orders. The train, designed to boost national tourism, combines high-class travel with Indonesian cultural and culinary experiences. The entire development and modification of the 12-carriage train was carried out domestically at KAI's Balai Yasa Surabaya Gubeng facility.

Momentum Indonesia Memimpin Pembiayaan Daerah Responsif Iklim

Indonesia berpeluang menciptakan sejarah dengan menerbitkan obligasi daerah pertama yang berfokus pada ketahanan iklim, mengubah paradigma dari pinjaman daerah menjadi peluang investasi. Jakarta diusulkan sebagai pelopor obligasi daerah responsif iklim senilai Rp3,5 triliun untuk membiayai proyek pengendalian banjir dan infrastruktur tahan cuaca ekstrem. Ekosistem pembiayaan yang melibatkan PT SMI, PII, IIF, dan BPDLH dinilai krusial untuk membangun kepercayaan investor global melalui tata kelola profesional.

Bima Regency DPRD Meeting on Village Head Election Regulation Descends into Chaos, Two Members Nearly Come to Blows

A meeting at the Bima Regency DPRD in West Nusa Tenggara turned chaotic as two council members nearly exchanged blows during a discussion on a draft regulation concerning village head elections. The altercation, which was captured on video, involved Jasmin of the PPP faction and Salahuddin of the Gerindra faction. Despite the disruption, the meeting continued and the two members later reconciled, with the incident being described as part of the internal dynamics of the institution.

East Java's 10th Mangrove Festival in Tuban Aims to Mitigate Climate Change

The East Java Provincial Government has reaffirmed its commitment to coastal ecosystem preservation through the 10th East Java Mangrove Festival in Tuban. Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa described the event as a strategic move to mitigate global climate change and a sustainable movement to strengthen environmental resilience. The festival highlights the vital ecological role of mangroves as carbon sinks and natural coastal barriers.

Lack of Wealth No Barrier to Heaven: The Charity of the Poor According to the Prophet

Islam offers equal opportunities for spiritual reward regardless of financial status, with the Prophet Muhammad outlining simple acts of worship that hold the value of charity for the poor. These include reciting remembrances of God, promoting good, forbidding evil, and caring for one's family. The teachings, cited by Imam Al-Ghazali, emphasise that divine justice provides alternative paths to merit for those without material means.

Gebyar Bakti Wanita Nusantara Enlivens Cilegon Square

Thousands gathered at Cilegon Square for the Gebyar Bakti Wanita Nusantara, an event aimed at empowering women and boosting the local economy. Organised by the Cilegon City GOW, the event featured cultural performances, a recycled-material fashion show, and an SME bazaar that saw strong sales. Officials praised the initiative as a model for sustainable women's empowerment and local economic development.

Indonesia shifts from automotive market to production base: Minister

Indonesia is transitioning from being merely a market for vehicles to becoming a global automotive production hub, according to Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita. He highlighted that national motor vehicle production rose 11.3 percent in the first half of 2026, while exports of completely built-up and knocked-down units, as well as components, saw significant growth. The minister also stressed the need for a multi-track energy transition approach to maintain national sovereignty as electrified vehicle sales surged to 26.8 percent of total passenger car sales.

President Prabowo asks officials to stop mobilizing crowds for his visits

President Prabowo Subianto has urged regional officials to cease mobilizing residents for ceremonial welcomes during his visits, emphasizing that public service should take priority over protocol. Speaking at a subsidized housing event in Batang, he stressed that the government must focus on serving the people and fostering national cooperation. Prabowo expressed confidence that Indonesians recognize the administration's sincere efforts to work for the nation's benefit.

Indonesia Reaffirms Commitment to South-South Cooperation and Economic Diplomacy

Indonesia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening South-South cooperation and economic diplomacy. The newly operational Directorate General for Economic Relations and Development Cooperation aims to bolster national interests through mutually beneficial partnerships. The initiative reflects a strategic push to enhance Indonesia's global standing as a trusted partner and support national economic growth.

Government Inaugurates 188 Village Human Rights Activists, to Receive Provincial Minimum Wage

The Indonesian government has officially inaugurated 188 Village Human Rights Activists (Penggerak HAM) who will serve as extensions of the Ministry of Human Rights at the village level. These activists will receive a salary equivalent to their respective provincial minimum wage (UMP) along with BPJS social security benefits. Recruited from their own home villages to ensure local effectiveness, they are tasked with both monitoring and resolving human rights issues within their communities.

Defence Ministry Reveals Considerations Behind Performance Allowance Increase for TNI and Staff

The Indonesian Ministry of Defence has confirmed that President Prabowo Subianto has signed regulations increasing performance allowances for TNI personnel and ministry staff from 70 to 90 per cent. The adjustment follows the fulfilment of bureaucratic reform index targets and consecutive unqualified audit opinions from the Supreme Audit Agency. The new allowance structure sees the highest-ranking officers receiving up to Rp48.6 million per month.

Drought Hits Yogyakarta, Eko Suwanto Proposes 'Disaster-Safe River' Concept

A Yogyakarta regional legislator has proposed a comprehensive 'Disaster-Safe River' concept after identifying critical landslide risks near a bridge in Bantul. Eko Suwanto, Chair of Commission A of the DIY Regional House of Representatives, called for immediate action from the local government to stabilise the riverbank and ensure public safety. He also urged authorities to allocate sufficient funds for drought mitigation as the dry season begins to impact several areas across the province.

Iran's Sanctioned Oil Trade Thrives in Malaysian Waters Amid US Embargo

Satellite data reveals a bustling ship-to-ship transfer operation for sanctioned Iranian crude oil in Malaysia's Eastern Outer Port Limits (EOPL). The oil, often disguised, is primarily destined for independent 'teapot' refineries in China, which are less exposed to the US financial system. This activity persists despite US naval blockades and ongoing regional tensions, highlighting Tehran's strategy to circumvent Western sanctions.

MRT Jakarta Plans Apartments in Blok M Targeting Gen Z, Here's Why

PT MRT Jakarta is planning to build apartments in the Blok M area aimed at millennials and Gen Z with moderate incomes, rather than the upper-middle class. The development is part of a broader Transit Oriented Development (TOD) project that will also include a hotel, commercial areas, and the revitalisation of Blok M Terminal. The initiative seeks to provide housing for young professionals who earn well but are priced out of Jakarta's premium apartment market.

American National Goes Viral Promoting Land Sale in Kintamani, Summoned by Immigration

An American national has been summoned by the Denpasar Immigration Office after a social media video of him promoting the sale of a 54-are plot of land in Kintamani, Bali, went viral. The man, identified by the initials SR, claimed in the video that it took five years to convince the owner to sell the undeveloped land, which he pitched to villa and hotel developers. Immigration officials are awaiting his attendance for questioning regarding potential immigration violations.

Pelindo Regional 4 Strengthens Workers' Spiritual Development Through Quran Programme

PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Persero) Regional 4 is reinforcing its human resources development by focusing on character and spiritual growth. The state-owned port operator has launched a routine weekly programme called 'Pelindo Regional 4 Mengaji' in collaboration with the Griya Al Quran Surabaya Foundation. The initiative aims to improve employees' understanding of the Quran, foster integrity, and build a harmonious work environment based on moral values.

Palace Respects Constitutional Court Ruling on Separating Free Nutritious Meal Budget from Education: We Will Study It First, Please Give Us Time

The Indonesian Presidential Palace has stated it respects the Constitutional Court's ruling that the budget for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme must be separated from the education budget. The government is awaiting the official copy of the ruling before deciding on further steps, with the State Secretary Minister noting any budget adjustments must be discussed jointly with the House of Representatives (DPR). The court ordered the separation to be implemented by the 2028 state budget at the latest, arguing education funds should prioritise core educational needs whilst the MBG programme warrants its own distinct allocation.

KPK Detains Four Suspects in Jasindo Case, State Losses Reach IDR 15.6 Billion

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained four suspects in connection with an alleged corruption case involving direct appointment of ship insurance contracts by PT Pelni to PT Jasindo between 2015 and 2020. The suspects include former executives from both state-owned enterprises and private companies. According to the state auditor BPKP, the scheme resulted in state losses of approximately IDR 15.6 billion.

IPP Tabalong adds 100 MW to accelerate electricity recovery in South and Central Kalimantan

The return to service of the Tanjung Power Indonesia IPP in Tabalong has injected an additional 100 megawatts into the Kalimantan Interconnection System, accelerating the restoration of power supply in South and Central Kalimantan. The unit resumed full operations two days ahead of schedule following a disruption, providing crucial support to the grid. State utility PLN remains optimistic that supply conditions will gradually normalise by early August as repairs on other generating units are completed.

Serang BPBD receives earthquake EWS grant from UI and PT TOA

The Serang Regency Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) has received an Early Warning System (EWS) grant for SDN Pasauran 1, donated by the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences and PT TOA Indonesia. The initiative, part of PT TOA's corporate social responsibility programme, aims to enhance earthquake mitigation and preparedness among schoolchildren. The handover was accompanied by disaster awareness training, which significantly improved students' understanding of earthquake risks.

Semarang Mayor Hails Tawang Station Revitalisation as 'Investment in Civilisation'

Semarang Mayor Agustina Wilujeng Pramestuti has welcomed the completion of the first phase of the revitalisation of the historic Semarang Tawang Station, calling it an 'investment in civilisation'. The project, inaugurated by President Prabowo Subianto, aims to modernise the 112-year-old heritage building while preserving its original architecture. The upgrade is expected to boost regional connectivity, support tourism, and prepare the city for the 2026 National MTQ event.

Tracing Palm Oil from Tesso Nilo to the Global Market

An investigation reveals that palm oil from the protected Tesso Nilo National Park is entering the supply chain of Apical Group, a major exporter under the Royal Golden Eagle conglomerate. Despite corporate commitments to no-deforestation policies, the oil flows to refineries and global markets, raising concerns about the effectiveness of self-regulation. Activists and researchers are calling for binding independent oversight, market boycotts, and criminal corporate liability to enforce compliance.

Helicopter Landing at SPN Cisarua Damages Market Stalls in Pasar Barukai

A helicopter landing at the National Police School (SPN) in Cisarua, West Bandung Regency, caused significant damage to several trader stalls at the nearby Pasar Barukai. The powerful downdraft from the rotor blades tore off roofs and scattered debris, though no casualties were reported. Local officials confirmed that approximately six semi-permanent stalls were affected by the incident.

Mount Anjing Peak and Lagadar Hills in Bandung Hit by Fires

Fires broke out at the peak of Mount Anjing and the Lagadar Hills in Bandung Regency during the dry season. While the Mount Anjing blaze was inaccessible and far from residential areas, limiting the response to monitoring, firefighters successfully extinguished a 200-square-metre bushfire near a housing estate in Lagadar. The Lagadar fire is suspected to have originated from waste burning that spread to dry vegetation.

Forest and Land Fires Hit Mount Anjing in Bandung Regency

A forest and land fire has broken out on Mount Anjing in Bandung Regency, West Java, an area previously identified as a high-risk zone. The local fire department is monitoring the situation as the blaze is located on an inaccessible peak far from residential areas. Separately, a bush fire in the Margaasih district was successfully extinguished, with officials reporting a significant increase in fire incidents throughout July 2026.

Environment Minister Pushes for Green Industrial Estates to Secure Quadrillion Rupiah Investments

Indonesia's Minister of Environment is accelerating the transformation of 143 active industrial estates into green zones to safeguard investments totalling Rp6,744 trillion. The initiative aims to align with stringent global investment standards that now prioritise resource efficiency, decarbonisation, and ESG principles. The government also plans to establish a joint coordination centre with industry players to streamline bureaucracy and address environmental issues.

Minister Maruarar Mandates One Tree per Subsidised House, Cites Environmental Reasons

Housing Minister Maruarar Sirait has introduced a new regulation requiring every subsidised house to plant one tree, as part of a broader environmental conservation drive following President Prabowo Subianto's directives. The announcement was made during a mass mortgage signing event in Batang, Central Java, where he also reported progress on the 'gentengisasi' roof renovation programme and the availability of 40-year mortgage tenors. The initiatives aim to boost both environmental greening and economic activity among small businesses.

Mystery of Harun Masiku's Whereabouts: KPK Raises Possibility He May Have Died

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has raised the possibility that long-time graft fugitive Harun Masiku may have died, as his whereabouts remain unknown despite years of searching. The agency is considering a trial in absentia for the former PDIP legislative candidate, who is wanted for bribing a KPU commissioner in 2020. The KPK maintains that the investigation will not be halted as long as the statute of limitations has not expired.

Ministry: Ideal father figure must be present physically and psychologically

Indonesia's Ministry of Population and Family Development has outlined the criteria for an ideal father, emphasising the importance of both physical and psychological presence in child development. The statement comes as national data reveals 25.8 percent of children experience fatherlessness, which studies link to lower academic achievement. The ministry promotes initiatives like 'Gemar' and 'Gamas' to strengthen paternal bonds and advocates for non-violent discipline rooted in spousal communication.

Ministry of Transmigration and Regional Governments Synergise to Advance Transmigration Areas

The Ministry of Transmigration is deploying 1,476 academics to 53 transmigration areas in 2026 to build on previous research and develop local economic potential. Minister Iftitah Sulaiman emphasised the shift from a top-down to a bottom-up approach, where regional governments propose development needs. The initiative includes a collaboration in Batam to provide housing, land security, and economic ecosystems for residents.

Ministry Stresses Importance of Violence-Free Parenting from Premarital Stage

Indonesia's Ministry of Population and Family Development has underscored the need to establish violence-free parenting foundations starting from the pre-wedding period. The ministry is collaborating with the Religious Affairs Ministry to enhance guidance for prospective brides and grooms, emphasising that ideal households are free from violence. Officials warned that domestic violence creates a cycle of abuse, and stressed that harmonious families are essential for raising healthy and intelligent children.

Minister of Law urges students to strengthen cross-organisational collaboration

Minister of Law Supratman Andi Agtas has called on Indonesian students to bolster collaboration across organisations to support national development and food security. Speaking at a Buddhist student congress in North Lombok, he emphasised the strategic role of students as agents of change in reducing economic inequality. The Governor of West Nusa Tenggara highlighted the region's selection as a testament to its long-standing religious harmony and tolerance.

OCBC Posts Rp2.7 Trillion Net Profit in First Half of 2026

PT Bank OCBC NISP Tbk reported a net profit of Rp2.7 trillion for the first half of 2026, a 6 per cent year-on-year increase. The growth was supported by an 11 per cent rise in total loans and a strengthening of low-cost current and savings accounts. The bank maintained robust capital and liquidity ratios, with a gross non-performing loan level of 1.9 per cent.

Bekasi City Government Implements BEETRI App to Boost Civil Servant Discipline

The Bekasi City Government is rolling out a digital attendance system called BEETRI to foster a culture of discipline among its civil servants. Mayor Tri Adhianto Tjahyono stressed that the system aims to build personal responsibility rather than merely monitor attendance, warning that repeated absenteeism, especially among contract-based PPPK workers, could lead to dismissal. He called on structural officials to strengthen supervision and urged all civil servants to uphold honesty and integrity to improve public service.

Omoda & Jaecoo unveil new SIVP technology in J7 SHS at GIIAS 2026

Omoda & Jaecoo have introduced their latest Super Intelligent Valet Parking (SIVP) technology in the Jaecoo J7 SHS-P SIVP at the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2026. The system allows the vehicle to autonomously locate a parking space and return to the driver via a smartphone app, utilising 27 sensors, LiDAR, and radar. Indonesia was selected as the first country for the global launch of this technology, with initial implementation planned for 40 locations by October 2026.

PHE records oil and gas production of 935,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day

PT Pertamina Hulu Energi (PHE) achieved upstream production of 935,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day in the first half of 2026, comprising 459,000 barrels of oil and 2,756 million standard cubic feet of gas. The performance was underpinned by well development programmes and successful exploration, which added 108 million barrels of contingent resources and 24.9 million barrels of proven reserves. PHE expressed confidence in maintaining this positive momentum to support national production targets through disciplined execution and stakeholder collaboration.

Surat Keterangan Domisili Usaha Dihapus, Ini Syarat dan Cara Dapat Penggantinya

The Business Domicile Certificate (SKDU) is no longer issued by local governments following a 2019 Ministry of Home Affairs circular. Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are now encouraged to use the Business Identification Number (NIB) via the OSS-RBA system as a valid substitute for business permits and financing applications.

Penajam Paser Utara Hands Over Land for National Integrated School Construction to Education Ministry

The Penajam Paser Utara (PPU) Regency has officially transferred land in Babulu District to the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education for the construction of a National Integrated School (SNT). The handover, marked by the signing of official minutes, is a crucial step before the project can proceed, with land certification still being finalised. The SNT programme is a national strategic project aimed at providing equitable access to high-quality education, particularly in the region surrounding the new capital, Nusantara.

Drone Strikes Gas Tanker in Egypt, Widening US-Iran Conflict to Suez Canal

A drone attack on a gas carrier at Egypt's Damietta port has raised fresh security concerns over the Suez Canal, a critical artery for global energy trade. The incident occurred amidst escalating hostilities between the United States and Iran, with both sides launching strikes against each other's assets and allies. The attack threatens to further destabilise the region and disrupt vital shipping lanes.

Ministry assures cooking oil supply secure despite low DMO realization

The Indonesian Trade Ministry has moved to reassure the public that domestic cooking oil supplies remain stable, despite a sharp drop in the Domestic Market Obligation (DMO) realization. Officials clarified that the decline reflects reduced export decisions by producers rather than a supply shortage, and a new regulation mandates direct market supply to safeguard household needs. The government also confirmed it will maintain the retail price ceiling for Minyakita to protect consumers.

UK Invests £8.4 Billion in Nuclear Submarines

Prime Minister Andy Burnham is set to announce an £8.4 billion investment to build four Dreadnought-class nuclear submarines. The programme aims to create jobs and opportunities for young people, with the first vessel expected to begin sea trials and enter service in the early 2030s. The funding forms part of a broader long-term defence budget, though a portion of the overall allocation remains unfunded.