Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 30 July 2026

Showing 401-450 of 1,630 articles

Cross-sector collaboration key to Indonesia's TB elimination, says Director General

Indonesia's Director General of Regional Administration, Safrizal Zakaria Ali, has called for strong regional leadership and cross-sector collaboration down to the village level to accelerate tuberculosis elimination. He stressed that TB is a development issue, not just a health problem, and highlighted lessons from the country's COVID-19 response. The government is urging local leaders to form dedicated task forces and replicate successful local innovations, such as those seen in Malang City.

Minister: Indonesia Shifting from Automotive Market to Production Base

Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita has declared that Indonesia is transitioning from being merely an automotive market to a global production hub. He highlighted robust economic growth, a surge in vehicle production and exports, and a sharp decline in imports as evidence of this structural shift. The government insists that the vast potential of the domestic market must be met by locally manufactured products, not imports.

East Jakarta Encourages Posyandu to Be More Active in Supporting Community Empowerment

The East Jakarta city administration is urging integrated health posts (posyandu) to play a more active role in community health empowerment as part of the vision for a Golden Indonesia 2045. The call was made during a jamboree for health cadres, which aimed to boost their capacity and motivation. The event also highlighted the need to increase community attendance, currently at over 60 per cent, and expand services to cover all age groups.

Pertamina's Sustainable Bioenergy Initiative Wins Global Recognition

PT Pertamina has received the Outstanding SDG Innovator 2026 award from the United Nations Global Compact for its 'Bioenergy Lestari' programme. The initiative integrates social forestry with renewable energy production, aiming to strengthen national energy security while empowering local communities. A pilot project cultivating sweet sorghum for bioethanol is already underway in Central Java.

President Prabowo Urges Regional Heads Not to Mobilise Crowds for Official Visits

President Prabowo Subianto has requested that governors and regents refrain from mobilising residents to welcome him during working visits, expressing sympathy for citizens forced to wait for hours in the heat. Speaking at a housing finance event in Batang, Central Java, he emphasised that the government's focus should be on serving the people rather than ceremonial welcomes. Prabowo also called for national unity and cooperation to achieve major development goals amid global challenges.

KPK Arrests Pemalang Regent in Jakarta Hotel, Finds Cash in His Car

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro a suspect in an extortion case following a sting operation in Jakarta. The anti-graft body seized a total of Rp 2.7 billion in evidence, including cash found in the regent's car and at various locations. The case also implicates a KPK administrative staff member who allegedly leaked information to facilitate the extortion scheme.

Satellite Internet Connectivity Strengthens Disaster Mitigation and Village Services in Sukabumi

A community-based satellite internet programme is being expanded in Sukabumi, West Java, to enhance disaster preparedness and digital village governance. The initiative, supported by the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) and Atma Connect, enables real-time reporting and coordination for disaster volunteers. It also supports essential digital administration for village governments, including financial management and social assistance applications.

Oegroseno Speaks Out After Kortas Tipikor Examination Over Land Case

Former Deputy National Police Chief Oegroseno has defended the legality of a land grant process for the Policewomen's School (Sespolwan) in Ciputat to the Jakarta Provincial Government, claiming it followed state finance laws. He also detailed a subsequent Rp121 billion grant from the Jakarta administration for police educational facilities, including a land acquisition that expanded the asset beyond its initial target. Oegroseno expressed regret that the entire process was never audited by the police internal watchdog or the national audit board, suggesting any issues would likely be administrative.

BPDP Highlights Sustainability as Key to Palm Oil Industry's Future

The Palm Oil Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP) has stated that the future competitiveness of Indonesia's palm oil industry hinges on the successful implementation of sustainability principles. Officials emphasized the need for increased productivity, strengthened downstream processing, and compliance with environmental and governance standards. The government is supporting this shift through fiscal incentives, including customs and tax facilities for downstream industries.

Bankers Reveal Impact of Removal of Small Credit Histories Under IDR 1 Million from SLIK

The removal of credit records with outstanding balances below IDR 1 million from the Financial Information Service System (SLIK) is now in effect, according to a senior banker. The policy means that small defaults will no longer appear when banks pull credit reports, potentially preventing analysts from automatically rejecting applicants over minor administrative issues. The move is expected to lead to more proportional credit assessments, as analysts are encouraged to look beyond small-scale arrears that may stem from forgetfulness or temporary emergencies.

Two Nutrition Service Units on Simeulue Island Halt Operations Due to Budget Delays

Two Satuan Pelayanan Pemenuhan Gizi (SPPG) units in Simeulue Regency, Aceh, have temporarily ceased operations for the Free Nutritious Meals programme due to the central government's failure to disburse operational funds. The local Badan Gizi Nasional (BGN) official warned that more units may follow suit this week. This follows a similar shutdown of six SPPG units in the archipelago regency in June 2026, also caused by delayed budget disbursements.

Trade Ministry assures Minyakita stock secure despite shrinking CPO DMO

Indonesia's Ministry of Trade has moved to allay public concerns over cooking oil supplies, confirming that stocks of the subsidised Minyakita brand remain safe. This assurance comes despite a significant year-on-year decline in the domestic market obligation (DMO) for crude palm oil (CPO). Officials cited a new ministerial regulation that mandates producers supply the domestic market regardless of export volumes.

Minister Commits to Elevating Karo Flower and Fruit Festival to International Stage

Cooperatives Minister Ferry Juliantono has pledged central government support to scale up the Karo Flower and Fruit Festival into an international event. The festival, which combines agriculture, culture, and tourism, is seen as a key driver for local economic development and investment. Local officials aim to leverage the event to boost tourism, expand horticultural markets, and improve community welfare.

Prabowo: No Need to Mobilise the Public to Welcome Me

President Prabowo Subianto has requested that regional heads refrain from mobilising residents to greet him during working visits, expressing concern for their comfort. He made the remarks while inaugurating a mass mortgage agreement for 62,000 subsidised housing units in Batang, Central Java. The President emphasised that his administration's focus is on working earnestly for the people's prosperity rather than ceremonial welcomes.

Jakarta Inspectorate to Probe Repeated Sealing of Gambir Building

The Central Jakarta Inspectorate is summoning local officials to clarify why a six-storey building in Gambir was repeatedly sealed yet construction continued. The probe aims to assess whether enforcement procedures were adequate and to prevent future violations. The building reportedly only had a permit for four storeys.

Iran Rejects Oman's Proposal for Joint Management of the Strait of Hormuz

Iran has rejected Oman's proposal for a joint regional management mechanism for the Strait of Hormuz, citing unmet security concerns. Tehran has instead submitted a counter-proposal that would see each country manage the shipping lanes on its own side of the strategic waterway. The discussions continue as both nations still disagree on issues including vessel routing, financing mechanisms, and operational authority.

Thousands of Students in Mataram Indicated to Have Received Double BSM Payments, Education Agency Responds

Around 1,800 students in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, have been flagged for potentially receiving duplicate payments from the national Student Financial Assistance (BSM) programme. The city's Education Agency claims the misdirected funds have been returned and is overhauling its data collection mechanism. Future aid distribution will be restricted to the poorest two deciles, with validation conducted jointly with the Social Affairs Agency.

Oegroseno Denies Allegations of Receiving Money in Police Land Procurement

Former Deputy Chief of the Indonesian National Police, Commissioner General (Ret.) Oegroseno, has refuted claims that he accepted money during the land acquisition process for police educational facilities. He explained that the procurement occurred during his tenure as Head of the Police Education and Training Institute and insisted he rejected offers of money and land from the seller. Oegroseno expressed surprise that the transaction, completed over a decade ago, is now being investigated by the Police's Corruption Eradication Corps.

Danamon posts Rp2.4 trillion net profit in first half of 2026, up 33 percent

PT Bank Danamon Indonesia reported a consolidated net profit of Rp2.4 trillion for the first half of 2026, marking a 33 percent year-on-year increase. The growth was driven by a 12 percent rise in total credit and trade finance, alongside improved asset quality. The bank also completed its acquisition of a controlling stake in Home Credit Indonesia to strengthen its financial ecosystem.

BNPP Attends Malindo Social-Economic Meeting, Strengthens RI-Malaysia Border Management Collaboration

Indonesia's National Border Management Agency (BNPP) participated in the 39th Joint Working Group meeting for the Indonesia-Malaysia Social-Economic Committee (Sosek Malindo) in Pontianak. The forum focused on aligning policies and enhancing cross-sector coordination for sustainable border area development. Key discussions included labour issues, electricity supply from Sarawak, and the planned opening of a new border crossing in August 2026.

State Secretary Opens Up on Early August Reshuffle Rumours

State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has addressed speculation about a cabinet reshuffle by President Prabowo Subianto in early August, stating no such plan currently exists. He indicated that any new appointments would likely be to fill vacant deputy minister positions, such as those at the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections. Prasetyo emphasised that the President has not yet discussed any imminent replacement of existing officials.

BI Tasikmalaya Strengthens Data-Driven Inflation Control, Launches 'Sidang' Application

Bank Indonesia's Tasikmalaya office has launched an integrated data platform called 'Sidang' to bolster inflation control across East Priangan. The system consolidates food price and supply data from five regions, featuring an AI-based early warning system and price projections. It aims to enable earlier and more targeted policy interventions by local inflation control teams.

KPK Chief Still Haunted by Failure to Locate Fugitive Harun Masiku

Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) Chairman Setyo Budiyanto has admitted that the continued failure to apprehend graft fugitive Harun Masiku remains a burden on the agency's leadership. The former legislative candidate has been at large since 2020 in connection with an alleged bribery case. The KPK has pledged to continue pursuing Masiku and other fugitives, including e-KTP graft suspect Paulus Tannos, whose extradition is being sought from Singapore.

KJRI Johor Bahru Strengthens Assistance for 1,583 Indonesian Nationals Detained in Malaysia

The Indonesian Consulate General in Johor Bahru is intensifying support for 1,583 Indonesian citizens facing legal issues in Malaysia, with over 1,200 already serving sentences. Ahead of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, the consulate distributed humanitarian aid to prisoners serving long sentences and facilitated communication with their families. The initiative aims to ensure legal rights are upheld and to streamline the repatriation process for inmates upon completing their sentences.

PaninBank Posts Rp1.44 Trillion Profit in First Half of 2026

PT Bank Pan Indonesia Tbk (PaninBank) reported a net profit of Rp1.44 trillion for the first half of 2026, a slight increase from Rp1.42 trillion in the same period last year. The growth was driven by a 6.6% rise in net interest income, supported by an improved net interest margin. The bank adopted a cautious lending approach amid global economic uncertainty, leading to a contraction in its loan portfolio and third-party funds.

Governor Urges Vigilance on Global Pressures Despite DIY's 5.84% Economic Growth

Yogyakarta Governor Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X has cautioned local governments to remain alert to global and domestic challenges, warning that inflationary pressures could erode purchasing power and push the lower middle class into poverty. The warning comes despite the Special Region of Yogyakarta recording economic growth of 5.84% in the first quarter of 2026, surpassing the national average. The Governor stressed the need for integrated data-based governance and price stability measures to ensure development interventions are accurately targeted.

Constitutional Court Ruling: Nutritious Meal Programme Budget Must Be Separated from Education Budget

The Constitutional Court has ruled that the budget for the Nutritious Meal Programme (MBG) must be decoupled from the national education budget in future fiscal years. The decision aims to ensure that the mandatory 20% education spending allocation is strictly reserved for core educational components such as teachers, infrastructure, and curriculum.

Beware of Silent Scam Modus Operandi That Drains Bank Accounts

Cybersecurity researchers have uncovered a large-scale fraud campaign active since 2017 that uses fake corporate websites to intercept business payments. The scammers clone legitimate company sites, create fictitious subsidiaries, and direct victims to transfer funds to accounts they control. The scheme has targeted international B2B trade, causing significant financial losses and reputational damage to the impersonated firms.

Constitutional Court Rules Free Nutritious Meal Programme Cannot Use Education Budget

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has partially granted a judicial review, ruling that the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme can no longer be funded through the education budget. The court stated that the programme is not a core component of education and must be separated from the education operational budget by the 2028 State Budget at the latest. The ruling came after a foundation argued that using education funds for the programme violated the constitutional mandate requiring a minimum 20 percent allocation for education.

South Kalimantan Youth Agency Forms Pioneers to Preserve Meratus Geopark

The South Kalimantan Youth and Sports Agency (Dispora Kalsel) has launched the 'Youth Meratus Geopark 2026' programme to empower young people as agents of change in preserving the UNESCO-listed site. The initiative aims to build leadership, environmental awareness, and collaborative skills among the youth to ensure the sustainable development of the region's natural and cultural heritage. Officials emphasised that the active involvement of the younger generation is crucial for safeguarding the geopark's identity and delivering long-term benefits to the local community.

Social Affairs Ministry Launches Virtual Disability Card

The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs has begun issuing a virtual Disability Card (KPD) to provide access to concessions of at least 20 per cent across nine strategic sectors. The card is based on verified data from the National Single Socio-Economic Data system, with over 4 million of the nearly 15 million registered persons with disabilities already verified. The government aims to complete the issuance of the cards by 2027.

Samudera Indonesia (SMDR) Announces Interim Dividend of Rp 40.94 Billion, Sets Schedule

PT Samudera Indonesia Tbk (SMDR) has declared an interim dividend of Rp 40.94 billion for the 2026 financial year. Shareholders are set to receive a cash dividend of Rp 2.5 per share, with the payment scheduled for 29 August 2026.

Prabowo Asks Regional Heads Not to Mobilise Residents to Welcome the President

President Prabowo Subianto has requested that governors and regents refrain from mobilising citizens to greet him during working visits, expressing concern for people forced to wait for hours in the heat. Speaking at an event in Batang, Central Java, he emphasised that his administration is working earnestly for the people and does not require ceremonial welcomes. The President also urged all levels of government to collaborate solely in the public interest.

Young Indonesians Embrace Digital Banking and Financial Planning, OJK Data Shows

A growing number of young Indonesians, like shopkeeper Eri Kurniawati, are adopting disciplined financial habits by using digital banking platforms to save and manage their money. This shift towards digital financial management is reflected in the 2025 National Survey on Financial Literacy and Inclusion, which indicates increasing public engagement with financial products. The Financial Services Authority (OJK) views this trend as a positive foundation for strengthening the national financial ecosystem and supporting inclusive economic growth.

Klaten and Gayo Lues Regencies Forge Agricultural and Plantation Partnership

The regencies of Klaten in Central Java and Gayo Lues in Aceh have signed a cooperation agreement focusing on agriculture and plantations. The partnership aims to synergise the development of each region's potential, with a particular emphasis on reviving Klaten's coffee production on the slopes of Mount Merapi by learning from Gayo Lues's renowned Arabica Gayo coffee industry. The agreement was formalised during Klaten's 222nd anniversary celebrations.

BPI Receives LKPM Award, Reinforcing Commitment to Sustainable Investment in Batang

PT Bhimasena Power Indonesia (BPI) has been honoured with the LKPM Award for Best Foreign Investment Company by the Batang Regency Government. The award recognises the company's consistent compliance with investment reporting regulations and its role in regional economic growth. BPI, which operates a 2x1,000 MW power plant, reaffirmed its commitment to responsible investment and supporting national energy security.

LRT Jabodebek Ridership Rises 23 Percent, Intermodal Integration Strengthened

Passenger numbers on the LRT Jabodebek rose by 23 percent in the first half of 2026, reaching over 16 million. The operator, PT Kereta Api Indonesia, is enhancing intermodal connectivity by providing clear directional signage and information screens at stations to facilitate seamless transfers to other public transport services. Dukuh Atas BSI Station recorded the highest activity, serving as a major transit hub for commuters.

BNI Sekuritas Responds to Bullying Allegations Circulating on Social Media

PT BNI Sekuritas has issued a statement addressing allegations of past bullying linked to one of its employees that have gone viral across multiple social media platforms. The firm clarified that the alleged incident occurred when the individuals involved were still students, prior to the employee joining the company. BNI Sekuritas emphasised that it views bullying as a serious matter and supports ongoing mediation efforts between the parties.

This SOE Remains a Strong Leader in the General Insurance Industry

PT Askrindo has secured the National General Insurance Market Leader award for 2026, reinforcing its dominant position in the sector. The state-owned enterprise attributes its success to strong corporate governance, operational efficiency, and a commitment to expanding digital services. The company plans to further its growth by diversifying products and strengthening synergies within the SOE and banking ecosystem.

Regional Leaders Cry Out in Parliament, Demand No Budget Cuts in 2027

Indonesian regional leaders, represented by APKASI, have pleaded with the central government to halt budget cuts in 2027, warning that further fiscal constraints will cripple their ability to accelerate development and support national strategic projects. The appeal was made during a hearing with House Commission II, which also discussed regional head remuneration and revenue sharing. The meeting was attended by Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian and Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad.

MRT Jakarta Highlights Inclusivity in Dukuh Atas Pedestrian Deck Development

PT MRT Jakarta is emphasising inclusive design in the development of the Dukuh Atas Pedestrian Deck, incorporating features such as elevators, ramps, escalators, and tactile paving for disabled passengers. The circular facility, which began construction in June, aims to seamlessly integrate multiple public transport modes and is targeted for completion by 2028.

Indonesia Urges Automakers to Fulfil Investment Pledges and Boost Domestic Production

Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita has called on global car manufacturers to accelerate the realisation of their investment commitments in Indonesia, noting that most pledged funds remain undelivered. Speaking at the GIIAS auto show, he stressed that Indonesia's low car ownership rate presents a major growth opportunity that must be met by domestic production rather than imports. The government aims to position the country as a regional manufacturing and export hub, supported by policy certainty and a deepened local supply chain.

Indonesia warns of heatstroke risk as drought drives up heat

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued a public health warning as severe drought and low cloud cover push temperatures to between 30°C and 34°C across the archipelago. The agency cautioned that prolonged outdoor exposure significantly increases the risk of heatstroke and dehydration, while degraded air quality from dust and potential forest fires is linked to a rise in acute respiratory infections. BMKG urged the public to stay hydrated and use protective gear, and called on health authorities to take early intervention measures in high-risk areas.

Indonesia and Albania Target MoU Implementation on Migrant Workers by End of 2026

Indonesia and Albania have signed a memorandum of understanding on the placement and protection of Indonesian migrant workers, with implementation targeted by late 2026. Albanian Minister Delina Ibrahimaj expressed hope that technical agreements and business forums could commence as early as autumn this year. The agreement aims to ensure safe and ethical employment for Indonesian workers while serving the interests of Albanian businesses.

KPK Investigates Staff Member for Handling Cases Beyond Pemalang Regent

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is probing whether one of its administrative staff, already a suspect in a bribery case involving the Pemalang Regent, was involved in manipulating other cases. The staff member, Setya Budi Dias Oktavianto, allegedly leaked internal information to his father, who then used it to extort the regent. The KPK is now expanding its investigation and has pledged to evaluate internal procedures to prevent future document leaks.

Jokowi's Visit to NTT Seen by PSI as More Than Political Gathering

The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) has stated that former President Joko Widodo's upcoming visit to East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) transcends mere political networking. PSI official Ahmad Ali highlighted that the visit serves to reinforce the emotional bond between Jokowi and the local community, drawing parallels to the region's ivory tusk tradition which symbolises honour and trust. The party also pointed to Jokowi's infrastructure legacy in the region as a foundation for this continued relationship.

BRI Equips Indonesian Migrant Workers in Taiwan with Financial Literacy and Entrepreneurship Skills

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has launched an empowerment programme in Keelung, Taiwan, to equip 50 Indonesian migrant workers with practical entrepreneurial and financial management skills. The initiative aims to transform remittances into productive business capital, preparing participants for economic independence upon their return to Indonesia. The programme includes training in business planning, digital marketing, and access to BRI's financial services such as KUR microcredit.

DPD RI Secretariat's DWP Encourages Women to Be Smart and Empowered in the Digital Era

The Dharma Wanita Persatuan (DWP) of the DPD RI Secretariat celebrated its 7th anniversary by urging women to view technological advancement as an opportunity for growth. The event featured a seminar highlighting the need for women to be adaptive, maintain integrity, and use technology wisely to strengthen family economies. Secretary General Mohammad Iqbal praised the organisation's role in enhancing women's quality and fostering unity within the parliamentary environment.

House Commission III Demands Swift Arrest of Security Guard's Killer at Jatiluhur Reservoir

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III has urged law enforcement to thoroughly investigate and immediately arrest the perpetrators behind the brutal murder of a security guard at Jatiluhur Reservoir. The victim, Sumarna, was found dead with his hands cuffed behind his back, prompting lawmakers to condemn the act as heinous and intolerable. The commission also called for a comprehensive evaluation of security protocols at vital national assets to prevent such incidents from recurring.

Palace to Review Constitutional Court Ruling Banning Use of Education Budget for Free Meals

The Indonesian government has stated it will study a Constitutional Court ruling that prohibits the use of the education budget to fund the free nutritious meal programme. The court mandated that the programme's budget be separated from education funds by the 2027 or 2028 state budget at the latest. The government noted it has yet to formally receive the court's decision.