Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 30 July 2026

Showing 301-350 of 1,630 articles

Tambora Police Intensify Patrols to Curb Street Brawls and Crime

The Tambora Police have intensified routine patrols in the Jembatan Besi area and across the district to prevent street brawls and criminal activity. The enhanced operations involve mobile patrols, dispersing late-night crowds, and issuing public safety advisories. Police are also urging parents to monitor their children's whereabouts, particularly after 9 PM, to prevent their involvement in risky behaviour.

Industry Minister Demands Realisation of Automotive Investment Pledges, Only Rp5.5 Trillion Secured

Minister of Industry Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita has urged automotive manufacturers to fulfil their investment commitments in low-carbon emission vehicle (LCEV) production, noting that only Rp5.5 trillion of the promised Rp21.5 trillion has been realised. Speaking at the GIIAS 2026 event, he stressed that the transition to low-emission vehicles must involve deepening the domestic supply chain rather than merely shifting import sources. The government is also calling for the inclusion of small and medium enterprises in the supply chain and insists Indonesia must become a regional production and export hub, not just a market.

Minister: Indonesia Shifting from Automotive Market to Production Base

Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita announced that Indonesia is transitioning from merely an automotive market to a global production base, driven by significant growth in manufacturing and exports. He stressed that the country's vast, unsaturated domestic market must be supplied by locally produced vehicles rather than imports. The government is also pursuing a multi-pathway energy transition, with electrified vehicle sales surging in the first half of 2026.

Land Fires Scorch Five Hectares Across Two Locations in Karangasem in a Single Day

Two separate land fires broke out in the Kubu District of Karangasem, Bali, on Thursday, destroying more than five hectares of land. The blazes occurred despite recent rainfall in other parts of the regency, as the Kubu District continues to experience dry conditions. Firefighters deployed three engines and 13 personnel, using tens of thousands of litres of water to extinguish the flames.

Social Affairs Ministry Issues Disability Cards to Facilitate Concessions Across Nine Sectors

The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs has begun issuing Kartu Penyandang Disabilitas (KPD) to ensure disabled citizens can access mandatory concessions in sectors such as education, transport, and health. The initiative, based on verified data from the National Socio-Economic Data registry, aims to cover over 4 million verified individuals. Minister Saifullah Yusuf stated that during the transition period, existing medical certificates can still be used to claim the benefits mandated by the new government regulation.

Gresik Regency Government Offers Five Strategic Investment Projects

The Gresik Regency Government in East Java has unveiled five strategic investment projects, including a major copper processing facility, during its inaugural business forum. The initiative aims to attract investors and strengthen Gresik's position as a prime investment destination in the region. The local government also awarded companies for their significant investment contributions to the area.

Distance Learning Offers New Hope for Out-of-School Children, Says Deputy Minister

Deputy Minister of Basic and Secondary Education Fajar Riza Ul Haq stated that the Distance Learning (PJJ) programme provides a crucial pathway for children who have dropped out of school to resume their education. The initiative, which has already reached over a thousand potential students, is designed as a flexible option for secondary education, particularly for those facing health or accessibility challenges. The government emphasised that PJJ is not a replacement for face-to-face schooling but a complementary service, with formal certification and quality assurance mechanisms in place to ensure participating students receive recognised qualifications.

Houthi Official Says Japanese Vessels Will Not Be Targeted in Bab el-Mandeb Strait

A Houthi official has stated that Japanese ships will not be targeted amidst the group's blockade of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait for vessels linked to Saudi Arabia. The official emphasised that the group does not intend to hinder freedom of navigation, though ships must reportedly obtain permission to transit the waterway. The strait has become a crucial alternative route for crude oil shipments following the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Pasar Jaya Launches Movement for a Jakarta Free of Single-Use Plastics

Perumda Pasar Jaya is spearheading a new initiative to eliminate single-use plastics across its network of 153 traditional markets in Jakarta. The programme focuses on educating traders and consumers, promoting reusable bags, and implementing waste separation at source. Officials from the Ministry of Environment and DKI Jakarta Provincial Government support the move, highlighting the need for integrated waste management and circular economy solutions to tackle the city's daily 9,000-tonne waste problem.

Leading Prayer at Mass Subsidised Housing Contract Signing, KH Zulfa: May It Bring Prosperity

KH Zulfa Mustofa, Vice Chairman of PBNU, led prayers at a mass contract signing for 62,000 subsidised mortgage units in Batang, Central Java, attended by President Prabowo Subianto. He prayed for the homes to bring tranquillity and blessings to their recipients. The event is part of the government's Three Million Houses Programme, aimed at expanding home ownership access for low-income citizens.

Pagesangan Health Centre Tender Winner Resigns After Being Implicated in LAZ Case

The contractor who won the tender to build the Pagesangan Community Health Centre in Mataram has withdrawn from the project after being implicated in the corruption case involving West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini (LAZ). The withdrawal threatens to delay the Rp 2.2 billion project as the Mataram city government scrambles to find a solution. The contractor's decision followed an investigation into parties connected to the LAZ graft case.

Asset Storage Grows More Sophisticated, KPK Sends Staff to Study Cryptocurrency

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is sending its employees for training on cryptocurrency as it adapts to increasingly sophisticated methods of hiding assets. The anti-graft body notes that suspects are moving away from conventional banking and safe deposit boxes, instead using digital currencies to conceal illicit wealth. This initiative aims to ensure investigators are not left behind when tracing assets in corruption cases.

Prabowo Hints at Destry as Permanent BI Governor? Minister Says Only the President Knows

Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi declined to speculate on whether President Prabowo Subianto's recent remarks signal that Destry Damayanti will be nominated as the permanent Governor of Bank Indonesia. Prasetyo stated that the decision rests solely with the President and has not yet been made. The speculation arose after Prabowo jokingly addressed Damayanti's current role as acting BI Governor during a public event.

Government Prepares Integration of Dairy Cooperatives into Free Nutritious Meal Supply Chain

The Indonesian government is drafting a presidential regulation to integrate dairy cooperatives directly into the supply chain of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The initiative aims to modernise cooperative infrastructure, including pasteurisation machines and cold chain systems, to ensure children consume milk produced by local farmers. East Java, contributing nearly 60 per cent of national milk production, is a key focus, with cooperatives seeking further regulatory support to empower smallholder dairy farmers.

China's online literature surpasses 33 million works

China's online literature industry has seen significant growth, with total works exceeding 33 million and overseas readers reaching approximately 250 million by 2025. The sector generated over 8 billion yuan in overseas revenue last year, driven by 40 million new registered users abroad. Genres such as realist fiction, science fiction, and fantasy are leading a trend of innovation and quality improvement.

Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs stresses importance of involving children in literacy activities

Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Romo HR Muhammad Syafi'i has highlighted the importance of involving children in literacy programmes, noting that such engagement encourages participation from parents and families. Speaking at the Muharam Islamic Literacy Festival in Bogor, he advocated for creative approaches like science-themed song competitions to foster a culture of learning from an early age. The initiative aligns with a national movement to create safe environments for children and a broader educational focus on character building.

Special Tickets Sell Out, Early Bird Registration Opens for PLN Electric Run 2026

All Special Tickets for the PLN Electric Run 2026 were quickly sold out, demonstrating strong public enthusiasm. State-owned electricity company PLN has subsequently opened Early Bird registration for the event, which will take place on 8 November 2026 in BSD, Tangerang. The event aims to promote a green lifestyle and is projected to reduce carbon emissions by 24,780 kilograms of CO2.

Indonesia Expects Auto Sales to Top 850,000 Units in 2026 as Market Recovers

Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita projects domestic vehicle sales will exceed 850,000 units in 2026, citing a recovery in production and wholesale deliveries during the first half of the year. The minister emphasised that this figure is a starting point rather than a ceiling, noting Indonesia's low car ownership ratio of 19 per 1,000 people signals significant untapped demand. He also highlighted a structural shift in the sector, with surging exports of built-up and knocked-down vehicles positioning Indonesia as an emerging automotive manufacturing and export hub rather than just a consumer market.

China Criticises US FCC's Expanded 'Covered List' as Discriminatory Against Chinese Products

Beijing has condemned the US Federal Communications Commission's decision to add foreign-made power inverters and advanced robotics to its 'Covered List', calling it discriminatory. China's Commerce Ministry warned the move harms legitimate trade interests and disrupts global supply chains. Beijing threatened resolute countermeasures if Washington persists with the restrictions.

Yogyakarta City Government to Crack Down on Illegal Signage in Malioboro

The Yogyakarta city administration plans to remove unofficial signs in the Malioboro tourist district to prevent public confusion. Deputy Mayor Wawan Harmawan clarified that while official road signs are mandatory, decorative displays are still allowed. The Civil Service Police Unit will carry out the enforcement in a persuasive and humane manner.

Prabowo urges cleaner Indonesia to boost tourism

President Prabowo Subianto has called on regional governments to prioritise environmental cleanliness and aesthetics, arguing they are crucial for attracting tourists and creating jobs. Speaking at a subsidised mortgage handover in Batang, he announced a special meeting with governors and regents to discuss the 'Indonesia ASRI' (Safe, Healthy, Clean, and Beautiful) programme. The president stressed that industrialisation and downstream development must proceed without compromising environmental protection.

DPR Member Reviews Labour Proposal for Maximum One-Year Contract in Manpower Bill

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) has confirmed that a labour coalition's proposal to limit fixed-term contracts (PKWT) to a maximum of one year will be considered in the drafting of the new Manpower Bill. The proposal, submitted by the Grand Coalition of the Indonesian Labour Struggle (KBPBI), also calls for the abolition of outsourcing and comprehensive wage reform. Lawmakers plan to continue discussions with labour unions and DPR leadership to ensure the new regulation meaningfully addresses workers' concerns.

PDIP Urges Thorough Investigation into Security Guard's Death at Jatiluhur Reservoir

A senior PDIP politician has called for a comprehensive investigation into the death of a security guard found handcuffed at Jatiluhur Reservoir. The case has drawn high-level police attention, with the West Java Police Chief deploying a joint team to assist local authorities. The politician stressed that solving the case is crucial for delivering justice to the victim's family and maintaining public trust in law enforcement.

Indonesia to launch massive tree-planting drive, Prabowo says

President Prabowo Subianto has ordered a nationwide tree-planting campaign, instructing the agriculture and forestry ministers to prepare high-quality seedlings for distribution across all cities and regencies. He stressed that national development must balance downstream industrialisation and food security with environmental protection, calling for the creation of greener, more liveable communities. The initiative will also involve the Indonesian Military, with an assessment of heavy equipment from state-owned PT Pindad to support the effort.

APINDO Highlights Investment Challenges in Central Sulawesi: Regulation and Tax Burdens

The Central Sulawesi branch of the Indonesian Employers' Association (APINDO) has raised concerns regarding regulatory uncertainty and increasing tax burdens hindering regional economic growth. The association specifically pointed to frequent changes in mining permits and high distribution costs as significant obstacles for local businesses.

Indonesia champions central-regional collaboration in TB control

Indonesia is intensifying its fight against tuberculosis through strengthened central and regional government collaboration, which has already boosted case detection rates from 48 percent in 2020 to over 80 percent in 2025. The Ministry of Health is preparing to allocate X-ray devices to accelerate screening, while local leaders are urged to support contact tracing and public education efforts. The initiative, prioritised by President Prabowo Subianto, aims to fast-track the nation's goal of eradicating TB through a multi-pronged strategy involving all levels of government.

BKPM Reveals Why Coal Downstreaming Is Stuck in Place

The Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming/BKPM has acknowledged that the low value addition compared to commodities like nickel and bauxite is a key reason for the slow progress in coal downstreaming. High investment costs and the lack of an efficient, commercially viable technology are also major hurdles. Despite some international interest, the government is still seeking a technology that can make the industry's economics work.

Indonesia and Vietnam Compete for Factory Relocations, Minister Warns

The Indonesian Minister of Industry, Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita, has highlighted the intense competition between Indonesia and nations such as Vietnam, Thailand, and India to attract relocating global manufacturers. He emphasised that Indonesia must act swiftly to improve competitiveness and reduce investment uncertainty to capitalise on current global supply chain shifts.

Govt rolls out 62,710 FLPP mortgages for low-income households

The Indonesian government has signed mass mortgage contracts for 62,710 low-income households under the FLPP subsidised housing scheme, marking the highest single-round contract volume to date. Disbursement in 2025 reached a record 278,000 units, as authorities work to address a national housing backlog of 9.6 million homes. Officials emphasised that the programme reflects continued commitment to expanding affordable housing access through collaboration across ministries, regional governments, and 43 distributing banks.

Constitutional Court Rules Free Nutritious Meal Programme Cannot Be Funded from Education Budget

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has ruled that the government's inclusion of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme within the education budget is a means to artificially meet the constitutionally mandated 20 per cent spending threshold. The court found that this practice creates legal uncertainty and potentially hinders the optimal fulfilment of core educational priorities, such as facilities and teacher welfare. However, the court did not find the phrase 'operational implementation of education' in the budget law itself to be unconstitutional.

Tears and Anger Erupt at Trial for Death of Riau Islands Police Member

Emotions ran high during the first hearing of a case involving the alleged fatal assault of a Riau Islands Police officer by four of his colleagues. The public prosecutor charged the defendants under Indonesia's new Criminal Code, citing multiple articles related to severe assault resulting in death. The trial at Batam District Court was adjourned to allow the defence team to review the case files.

Geely Launches Coolray, Its First Petrol SUV in Indonesia, at GIIAS 2026

Geely Auto Indonesia has introduced the Geely Coolray, its first internal combustion engine vehicle in the Indonesian market, at the GIIAS 2026 motor show. The compact SUV, priced from Rp333 million, features a 174 PS turbocharged engine and will compete against established models like the Honda HR-V and Hyundai Creta. The launch marks a strategic expansion for Geely, which has so far focused on electric vehicles in the country.

Prabowo Tells Top Brass: 'Don't Be Salon Generals'

President Prabowo Subianto urged senior TNI and Polri officers not to become 'salon generals' who avoid getting their hands dirty, emphasizing that their uniforms should show signs of real field work. He made the remarks while officiating a mass mortgage signing event for 62,000 subsidised housing units in Batang, Central Java. The event, involving IDR 880 billion in financing, is part of the government's push to expand access to decent housing for low-income citizens.

Creative trips add economic value through experiences: Deputy Minister

Deputy Minister Irene Umar has highlighted the economic potential of creative trips, where visitors engage deeply with local culture, as a means to boost regional economies. She praised a student-led festival in Yogyakarta that will showcase Tidore's heritage through seminars, arts, and an MSME market. The government views such culture-based events as key drivers for increasing tourism, expanding market access for small enterprises, and generating greater value for local communities.

Netherlands warns drought worsening, affecting water resources

The Dutch government has warned that persistent drought conditions are increasingly impacting nature, agriculture, and inland shipping. Water levels in rivers and groundwater continue to fall, leading to shipping disruptions and deteriorating water quality. Authorities have urged households and businesses to use water wisely, though drinking water supplies remain unaffected.

South Tangerang Relocates Overhead Cables Underground to Prevent Accidents and Beautify City

The South Tangerang city government is relocating overhead telecommunication cables underground to improve safety and urban aesthetics, a project ongoing since 2022 without using the regional budget. The complex, phased work involves multiple operators and uses horizontal directional drilling to avoid open trenches, with nine road sections already completed. Officials say the initiative will continue along main corridors to create a more organised and sustainable city, despite temporary traffic disruptions during construction.

25 Personnel Deployed to Extinguish Rubbish Heap Fire in Tambora

A fire broke out in a pile of rubbish in a densely populated area of Tambora, West Jakarta, on Thursday evening. The West Jakarta Fire and Rescue Service dispatched 25 personnel and four fire engines, successfully extinguishing the blaze within 26 minutes. No casualties were reported, and authorities have urged residents to avoid burning or carelessly discarding waste to prevent future incidents.

BTN Boss Reveals Strategy to Realise 3 Million Affordable Homes

Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) President Director Nixon Napitulupto outlined the bank's strategy to support the government's programme of building 3 million homes, leveraging its decades-long experience in mortgage financing. The plan includes expanding subsidised mortgage schemes and a special credit programme for informal sector workers, while accelerating digitalisation to cut loan approval times. BTN is also collaborating with Danantara to boost the housing sector, which has a significant multiplier effect on the broader economy.

Doctor: Myth That Cervical Cancer Only Targets Married Women

A surgical oncologist has dispelled the myth that only married or sexually active women are at risk of cervical cancer, emphasising that all females, including those under 17, remain vulnerable. The doctor highlighted the importance of early prevention through HPV vaccination, which is most effective when given to children. Indonesia's national vaccination programme targets 90 per cent coverage for both girls and boys by 2030 to combat a disease that causes around 56 deaths daily in the country.

President Prabowo Inaugurates Mass Mortgage Signing for 62,710 Subsidised Housing Units

President Prabowo Subianto officiated a mass mortgage signing ceremony for 62,710 beneficiaries of the Subsidised Housing Liquidity Facility (FLPP) in Batang, Central Java. The event, organised by the Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas and BP Tapera, aims to accelerate the provision of affordable housing for low-income communities. A symbolic group of 200 debtors participated directly in the signing at the Rumah Subsidi Menyala housing estate.

Transmigration Ministry Seeks Inter-Ministerial Synergy to Boost Regional Development

The Ministry of Transmigration plans to collaborate with other ministries to accelerate infrastructure and economic development in transmigration areas. Deputy Minister Viva Yoga Mauladi acknowledged that decades of transmigration programs have not fully resolved issues, particularly in infrastructure. The government aims to revitalise these areas through targeted partnerships addressing specific local needs.

BPJPH Urges Businesses to Immediately Register Products for Halal Certification

The Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) has called on Indonesian businesses to accelerate halal certification ahead of the October 2026 mandatory deadline. The agency emphasised that certification is no longer just a regulatory requirement but a strategic tool to build consumer trust and enhance competitiveness. The halal value chain currently contributes 27% to the national GDP, highlighting its significant economic role.

Pegadaian and South Jakarta District Attorney Join Forces to Strengthen Legal Risk Mitigation

PT Pegadaian (Persero) has formalized a strategic partnership with the South Jakarta District Attorney's Office to enhance legal compliance and risk mitigation. The agreement aims to protect state assets and ensure operational transparency amid an increasingly complex business environment. The collaboration focuses on preventive measures, including legal consultation and assistance in civil and state administrative matters.

Dukuh Atas Pedestrian Deck Enters Tender Phase, Construction to Begin When?

The Dukuh Atas pedestrian deck project in Jakarta has entered the tender phase, with construction expected to commence once a contractor is appointed by November 2026. The circular design was chosen to maintain the urban planning concept established by President Soekarno, while construction will employ special methods to avoid disrupting the busy traffic and public transport operations below.

UNIFIL neutralises around 4 tonnes of explosives in southern Lebanon

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has safely neutralised approximately four tonnes of explosives discovered in southern Lebanon. The ordnance, primarily ammonium nitrate compounds, was found by peacekeepers during a routine route clearance operation near the border village of Houla. The mission emphasised that such operations are critical for ensuring the safety of peacekeepers and supporting the gradual return of residents to their villages.

Prabowo Aims to Build Trans-Sumatra Railway from Lampung to Aceh

President Prabowo Subianto has announced plans to develop the Trans-Sumatra Railway, connecting Lampung to Aceh, as part of a broader push to strengthen national connectivity. He also revealed intentions to simultaneously commence the Trans-Kalimantan Railway project. The President emphasised that railway services should be modernised and expanded to serve smaller towns and low-income communities, not just major cities.

Indonesia, Albania aim to implement migrant worker pact by year-end

Indonesia and Albania are moving to operationalise a migrant worker agreement by the end of the year, with plans for technical agreements and a business forum this autumn. The pact aims to ensure safe and regulated employment for Indonesian workers while meeting Albanian demand for skilled labour. The initiative follows a 2024 visit by President Prabowo Subianto, then defence minister, and signals deepening economic and diplomatic ties between the two nations.

Portugal Condemns Escalation of Violence in the West Bank

Portugal's Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel has condemned the escalating violence in the West Bank, calling for maximum restraint and the protection of civilians. Rangel stated that settler violence and settlement expansion violate international law and undermine peace prospects, reaffirming Portugal's commitment to a two-state solution. The condemnation coincided with a UN warning that settler violence and de facto annexation are worsening, despite an International Court of Justice ruling against the occupation.

Bandung City Government Prepares Special Fleet to Transport Waste to Legok Nangka TPPAS

The Bandung City Government is preparing a specialised fleet to transport approximately 800 tonnes of daily waste to the Legok Nangka Waste Processing and Final Disposal Site (TPPAS) in Bandung Regency. Mayor Muhammad Farhan confirmed the city will adhere to the 2018 cooperation agreement, which includes building a sorting facility and using vehicles designed for the hilly terrain. The initiative is part of a broader transformation of the regional waste management system, which also involves converting the Sarimukti landfill into an organic waste processing centre using methane gasification technology.

Pekanbaru Mayor Issues Stern Warning as Pasar Bawah Revitalisation Stalls

Pekanbaru Mayor Agung Nugroho has threatened to terminate the contract for the stalled revitalisation of Pasar Wisata Pasar Bawah, a key city market. The project, managed by PT Ali Akbar Sejahtera, has seen construction halted for over three months, reaching only 60 percent completion despite a 2025 deadline. The local government is summoning the developer, contractor, and traders to resolve the financing dispute before issuing a final warning and potentially taking over the project.