Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 13 August 2026

Showing 351-400 of 1,577 articles

Ahead of President's State Address, PA GMNI Calls for Improved Governance of Free Nutritious Meal Programme

The Central Executive Board of the GMNI Alumni Association (PA GMNI) has urged the government to improve the governance and transparency of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme ahead of President Prabowo Subianto's state address. The organisation expressed concerns over potential fraud and stressed that large-scale public programmes must be based on thorough feasibility studies and democratic oversight. They also issued a broader political statement calling for an end to dynastic politics, conflicts of interest, and the restoration of meritocracy in public appointments.

China's NEV Sales Proportion Surpasses 60 Percent in July 2026

Sales of new energy vehicles (NEVs) in China exceeded 60 percent of total monthly new car sales for the first time in July 2026, marking a significant milestone in the country's automotive transition. The cumulative NEV proportion for the first seven months of the year also surpassed 50 percent, driven by high oil prices and improved product competitiveness. Vehicle exports maintained strong momentum, with NEV exports surging 1.5 times year-on-year to account for over half of total vehicle shipments for the second consecutive month.

Banjar Regency Government Distributes 100 Indonesian Flags to Road Users

The Banjar Regency Government in South Kalimantan distributed 100 Indonesian flags to motorists and road users in Martapura to foster national pride. The initiative, led by the Communication and Informatics Office, aims to encourage residents to celebrate the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence and the 76th anniversary of the regency. Officials hope the gesture will inspire the community to display flags at their homes and vehicles throughout the month of independence.

Chronology of the Arrest of Kampung Bahari Drug Lord, Caught Undergoing Liposuction at a Beauty Clinic

A major drug lord known as 'Bos Gendut' was arrested by Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) whilst undergoing a liposuction procedure at a beauty clinic in West Jakarta. The suspect, identified as MR, had been a fugitive since November 2025 for his involvement in a large-scale narcotics network in Kampung Bahari. Authorities have also seized assets worth nearly IDR 40 billion as part of a money laundering investigation linked to the case.

Yogyakarta's SRI Tightens Tourist Supervision Amid High Wave Warnings

The Yogyakarta Special Region's rescue unit (SRI) has intensified monitoring of tourists along the southern coast, particularly at Parangtritis Beach, due to persistent high waves. Personnel numbers are being bolstered at vulnerable points, with up to 60 officers deployed during peak holiday periods. Despite repeated loudspeaker warnings and the installation of red flags, many visitors continue to ignore safety advisories and venture dangerously into the sea.

Indonesian Army Builds Irrigation Facilities to Support Over 100,000 Hectares of Farmland

The Indonesian Army (TNI AD) has constructed irrigation facilities at 1,703 locations, enabling 83,150 hectares of previously rain-fed agricultural land to achieve up to three harvests per year. The initiative, part of the 'Manunggal Air' programme, is being expanded to cover a total of 100,120 hectares, potentially boosting national rice production by 1.5 million tonnes annually. The army is also developing piped water networks in water-scarce regions, including a 15-kilometre project on Bawean Island.

Pramono Supports BNN's Drug Network Raid in Kampung Bahari

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has expressed full support for the National Narcotics Agency's (BNN) recent operation in Kampung Bahari, North Jakarta, which led to the arrest of a major drug lord. Pramono stated that the case should serve as a lesson for the public to avoid involvement in drug trafficking. The operation resulted in the capture of MR, a fugitive linked to the distribution of 98 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine.

Jetour T2 i-DM and T1 i-DM PHEVs Dominate Orders at GIIAS 2026

Jetour recorded 1,038 vehicle orders during the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2026, with the T2 i-DM and T1 i-DM plug-in hybrid models accounting for 72 per cent of total bookings. The strong consumer response highlights growing Indonesian demand for adventure-oriented SUVs equipped with electrification technology. The T2 i-DM also received two industry awards at the event, further cementing its appeal.

Viral 'Pak Ogah' Forcing Motorists for Money in West Jakarta Detained

A self-appointed traffic controller, locally known as a 'Pak Ogah', has been detained after a video of him deliberately obstructing vehicles to solicit money in West Jakarta went viral. Authorities acted following multiple public reports about the man's activities near the Rawa Buaya toll exit. The individual has been taken to the Cengkareng police station, and officials noted that such individuals are regularly rounded up and referred to social welfare homes.

Said Iqbal Urges Retention of Pro-Worker Job Loss and Contract Provisions in Labour Bill

Labour leader Said Iqbal has called on the Indonesian House of Representatives to preserve key worker protections during the deliberation of the new Labour Bill. He specifically highlighted the need to retain job loss guarantee schemes and compensation rules for contract employees that were introduced in the Omnibus Law on Job Creation.

BNN Arrests Kampung Bahari Drug Lord, Governor Pramono Pledges Full Support

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has expressed full support for the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) following the arrest of a major drug trafficker in Kampung Bahari, North Jakarta. The suspect, known as MR or 'Bos Gendut', was apprehended on 12 August 2026, with authorities seizing assets worth Rp39.9 billion. The Governor emphasised that the case should serve as a lesson to the public about the severe consequences of involvement in drug trafficking.

Legal Compliance Seen as More Than Administrative Necessity for Business Growth

Businesses are urged to integrate legal frameworks as a core growth strategy from the outset, rather than treating them as a reactive measure. A session at AMPLIFEST 2026 highlighted the importance of legal foundations in managing risks related to investment, expansion, and market entry. The discussion emphasised that compliance is a key element of corporate readiness, not just an administrative obligation.

Tokopedia Founder Ready to Be Open, Anyone Can Ask Directly

Tokopedia co-founder Leontinus Alpha Edison, now a deputy at the Coordinating Ministry for Community Empowerment, encourages small entrepreneurs to be confident and offers direct mentorship. He also revealed ambitions to push for clearer regulations on financing that consider business profiles beyond just assets. His new 'Perintis Berdaya' programme focuses on mentoring, access, and inclusive financing for small businesses.

Bung Hatta Refused Travel Allowance: Return It to the State, It's the People's Money!

A story of integrity from Indonesia's first Vice President, Mohammad Hatta, highlights his refusal to accept a travel allowance during a visit to Irian Jaya in 1970. Despite being told the money was part of the official government travel budget, Hatta insisted on returning it, stating it belonged to the people. His actions stand in stark contrast to the rampant corruption often reported among modern officials.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Strengthens Equal Access to Health for Private Madrasas

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs is working to ensure equal access to health services for students in private madrasas, which constitute the vast majority of the country's Islamic schools. With over 80,000 madrasas educating around 10.5 million students, the initiative aims to integrate government health programmes, including early detection and free treatment for diseases like tuberculosis, into the madrasa system. The policy underscores the government's commitment to supporting the physical wellbeing of students as a foundation for effective learning.

Lampung University Opens Registration for 2027–2031 Rector Candidates

Lampung University (Unila) has commenced the open registration process for its next rector, who will serve the 2027–2031 term, with applications accepted from 14 August to 4 September 2026. The selection committee has outlined a structured timeline prioritising objectivity and transparency, culminating in the appointment of the new rector on 18 January 2027. The process includes administrative selection, health examinations, and the presentation of vision and mission statements before the final three candidates are submitted to the ministry.

Prabowo Promises Low-Interest, Zero-Down-Payment Credit Scheme for Electric Motorcycles

President Prabowo Subianto has announced plans for a low-interest, zero-down-payment credit scheme to boost domestic electric motorcycle adoption. He has instructed the Danantara sovereign wealth fund to support the programme, aiming to reduce fuel imports and promote national energy independence. The initiative includes a potential trade-in mechanism and targets a significant increase in local production capacity.

KPK Releases Former Bank BJB President Director After Questioning in Advertising Fund Case, No Detention

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned former Bank BJB President Director Yuddy Renaldi over alleged corruption in advertising fund placements but did not detain him due to his declining health. Renaldi, who is battling prostate cancer, was sent home after the session was cut short. The KPK had previously detained four other suspects in the case, including a former Bank BJB division head and several private sector directors.

The Full Story of the LRT City Problem and Danantara Summoning ADHI

The protracted failure to hand over LRT City apartment units has escalated to the government level, with the Housing Minister and Danantara intervening. Consumers have complained of stalled construction and difficulties obtaining refunds, while the developer ADCP admitted its liquidity is severely strained. The government is now proposing a state audit and considering legal action to resolve the issue.

Trump Swapped Planes Over Iran Threat, Turkish Officials Call It Israeli Fabrication

Turkish officials have dismissed reports of an Iranian assassination plot against former US President Donald Trump during a NATO summit in Ankara as an Israeli fabrication. The alleged threat prompted the US Secret Service to secretly move Trump from Air Force One to a smaller military aircraft, but Turkish sources claim the intelligence was manufactured by Israel to derail US-Iran talks on reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

Putin's First Visit to Disputed Etorofu Island Draws Sharp Protest from Japan

Russian President Vladimir Putin has made his inaugural visit to Etorofu Island, part of a disputed chain controlled by Russia since World War II but claimed by Japan. The visit prompted a strong protest from Tokyo, which maintains the islands are inherently Japanese territory. The long-standing territorial dispute has prevented the two nations from signing a formal peace treaty, with relations further strained by Japan's sanctions on Russia over the Ukraine war.

Hyundai Opens Opportunities for Collaboration to Strengthen National Automotive Industry

Hyundai Motors Indonesia (HMID) has expressed interest in collaborating with strategic partners, including Media Group, to support the transformation of the national automotive industry. The company highlighted the significant impact of government incentives on the growth of the electrification market, noting a surge in electric and hybrid vehicle penetration. Hyundai also emphasised its commitment to adapting to diverse powertrain technologies while expanding its after-sales services.

BNN Reveals Drug Lord 'Bos Gendut' Operated Inter-Provincial Network from Kampung Bahari

Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has disclosed that MR, a major drug lord known as 'Bos Gendut' arrested in Kampung Bahari, ran an inter-provincial narcotics network. The agency is currently pursuing other members of the syndicate and has seized assets worth an estimated IDR 39.95 billion as part of a money laundering investigation.

Indonesia Condemns Israel's Rejection of Gaza Recovery Roadmap

Indonesia has strongly condemned Israel's rejection of a 15-point roadmap for the recovery of the Gaza Strip, viewing it as an attempt to derail international efforts. The roadmap, endorsed by UN Security Council Resolution 2803, aims to restore stability and enable reconstruction in the Palestinian territory. Jakarta urged all parties to adhere to the internationally agreed framework, while Hamas has signalled its commitment to the plan.

Students' Joy as New Bridge Arrives as 81st Independence Day Gift in West Bandung

Three new 'Presisi' bridges have been inaugurated in West Bandung Regency to improve local mobility, with one replacing a dilapidated crossing used by schoolchildren. The construction, a gift ahead of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, was carried out on the instruction of President Prabowo Subianto. Local students expressed delight that the new bridge shortens their journey to school and the football pitch.

Danantara CEO Confident Indonesia Can Lead World's Electric Motorcycle Market Worth Rp3,040 Trillion

Danantara Indonesia's CEO, Rosan Roeslani, has expressed confidence that Indonesia can become a global champion in the electric motorcycle industry, citing a potential market value of US$170 billion. The launch of the national electric motorcycle (Molinas) aims to capitalise on this opportunity by leveraging the country's vast nickel reserves for battery production. With current electric motorcycle adoption at just 1% of the 140 million units on the road, the government sees significant room for exponential growth.

Kerinci Coffee Goes Global: From Farmers, Environment, and Women's Empowerment to Gen Z

A recent international seminar hosted by the ALKO cooperative highlighted the multifaceted challenges and opportunities facing Kerinci's specialty coffee as it seeks to strengthen its position in the global market. Discussions moved beyond taste to encompass critical issues such as environmental sustainability, the impact of EU deforestation regulations, and the need for stronger branding. A key focus was the empowerment of women in the coffee ecosystem, addressing the gap between their significant labour involvement and their low levels of asset ownership and decision-making power.

Lampung Deputy Governor: Integrated People's Schools Expand Educational Access

Lampung Deputy Governor Jihan Nurlela has stated that the Integrated People's Schools (Sekolah Rakyat Terintegrasi) are crucial for broadening educational access for children in the province. She emphasised that the inauguration of the East Lampung People's School represents a commitment to ensuring that a family's economic circumstances do not hinder a child's aspirations. The initiative aims to produce students who are not only academically excellent but also possess strong character and cultural values.

Darunnajah University Integrates Islamic Studies with Science and Technology

Darunnajah University in South Jakarta is pioneering a higher education model that merges Islamic values and pesantren traditions with modern science, technology, and business. The curriculum spans from software engineering to sharia economics, aiming to produce graduates who are both theoretically grounded and capable of solving real-world problems. The university also offers postgraduate programmes focused on professional pesantren management and economic independence.

Rupiah Closes Flat as MSCI Rebalancing Euphoria Fades

The Indonesian rupiah closed unchanged against the US dollar on Thursday as the initial market excitement over the MSCI index review subsided. Attention has now shifted to the selection process for the new deputy governors of Bank Indonesia. Meanwhile, the Jakarta Interbank Spot Dollar Rate recorded a slight weakening.

BNN Reveals Other Major Drug Lords in Kampung Bahari Besides 'Fat Boss'

Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has disclosed the existence of additional major drug traffickers in Kampung Bahari, North Jakarta, following the arrest of MR, known as 'Fat Boss'. The suspects, including Arif alias Lopes and Kimmul, are believed to have armed themselves with illegal firearms to resist law enforcement. The operation, which faced resistance from loyalists, resulted in the seizure of drugs, cash, and assets worth Rp 39 billion.

MSCI Rebalancing Drags IHSG Down 1.13 Percent

The Indonesia Stock Exchange composite index fell sharply on Thursday as investors reacted negatively to MSCI Inc.'s August 2026 index review and awaited the government's upcoming fiscal policy direction. The removal of several Indonesian stocks from key MSCI indices, combined with profit-taking ahead of President Prabowo's state address on the 2027 budget, drove the decline. All eleven sectors on the IDX closed in negative territory, with the basic materials sector leading the losses.

Local Products Selling Well on TikTok and Tokopedia, Here Are the Top Sellers

Tokopedia and TikTok Shop report nearly 700 million local products on their platforms, with sales increasing by 51%. Fashion leads the growth, but categories like automotive, electronics, FMCG, and lifestyle are also expanding, demonstrating broad opportunities for local businesses.

SGE 2026 Records IDR 7.75 Billion in Transactions, Surabaya MSMEs Eye Wider Markets

The Surabaya Great Expo (SGE) 2026 generated an economic turnover of IDR 7.75 billion, exceeding the city government's target. Beyond direct sales, the event facilitated business legality services such as NIB issuance and halal certification to strengthen the local MSME ecosystem. The city administration plans to increase the frequency of such exhibitions and establish a permanent creative hub to ensure sustained market access for local entrepreneurs.

China's air and water quality improve in first seven months of 2026

China's air and water quality showed marked improvement during the first seven months of 2026, according to the Ministry of Ecology and Environment. The average concentration of PM2.5 fell by 6.2 per cent year-on-year, while the proportion of days with good air quality rose. Additionally, 86.5 per cent of surface water monitoring sites recorded good quality water, reflecting the country's intensified pollution control efforts.

Procurement Seen as Strategic Instrument to Boost Domestic Enterprises

RMIT University is bringing global expertise in AI and sustainable procurement to Indonesia, arguing that government spending can be a powerful tool for supporting local businesses and the circular economy. With over 64 million MSMEs contributing significantly to GDP and employment, reforming procurement practices could have a broad impact. The initiative aligns with Indonesia's circular economy ambitions, which are projected to add trillions of rupiah to GDP and create millions of green jobs by 2030.

Passenger Ship Burns Again, House Deputy Speaker Demands Simultaneous Ramp Checks

Following yet another fatal passenger ship fire in Indonesian waters, Deputy Chairman of the House of Representatives' Commission V, Syaiful Huda, has called for immediate and comprehensive ramp checks across the nation's fleet. The latest incident involved the KMP Putri Yasmin in the Lombok Strait, resulting in one death and 173 evacuations. Huda stressed that inspections must go beyond administrative formalities to include physical 'wet tests' of safety equipment and machinery, with strict sanctions for non-compliant operators.

More Practical! Now You Can Pay for Gold in Instalments Directly via the BRImo App

Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has expanded its digital gold investment services on the BRImo app, now offering a gold instalment scheme in partnership with state-owned pawnbroker PT Pegadaian. The collaboration aims to broaden public access to gold investment through a secure digital ecosystem. Promotional incentives, including a special instalment rate of 0.53% and cashback offers, are available for early adopters until the end of 2026.

Agriculture Minister: Technical Guidelines for Egg Procurement at Rp26,500/kg for SPPG Issued

The Indonesian Ministry of Agriculture has issued technical guidelines mandating the Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) to purchase eggs directly from farmers at the government purchase price of Rp26,500 per kilogram. The policy aims to stabilise prices and support poultry farmers following protests over falling egg prices. The government is also providing subsidised corn feed and has warned feed importers against price manipulation.

Heirs of Unram Student Killed in KMP Putri Yasmin Fire Receive Rp 125 Million Compensation

The heirs of Indah Dwi Septiani, a 19-year-old University of Mataram student who perished in the KMP Putri Yasmin ferry fire, have received a total of Rp 125 million in compensation. The payment, delivered by state-owned insurer PT Jasa Raharja, comprises a standard Rp 50 million death benefit and an additional Rp 75 million from its subsidiary. The company emphasised the state's commitment to providing basic protection for victims of transport accidents.

Joint Team Develops Smart Pellet Maker to Cut Fish Feed Costs

A cross-university community service team has introduced a Smart Pellet Maker integrated with IoT technology to help fish farmers in Lampung reduce feed costs. The device, combined with a web-based business management system, was implemented at Karunia Ikan Segar to enable real-time production monitoring and digital administration. The initiative aims to support the transition towards data-driven aquaculture and improve business efficiency.

Indonesia's Electric Motorcycle Market Potential Reaches US$170 Billion, Says Minister

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani announced that Indonesia's electric motorcycle market could reach a value of US$170 billion, driven by the country's large existing motorcycle fleet and rich nickel reserves for battery production. The government is promoting the national electric motorcycle programme (MOLINAS) through industry collaboration, local content requirements, and by facilitating low-interest financing schemes to boost adoption. The initiative aims to establish Indonesia as a global champion in the electric vehicle industry while strengthening domestic economic independence.

South Jakarta Government Reprimands Building Owner for Altering Water Channel Without Permit

The South Jakarta city administration has issued a formal warning to the owner of a building on Jalan Lebak Bulus PDK for illegally modifying a water channel to create vehicle access. Officials instructed the owner to restore the pavement and apply for the proper permits from the investment and one-stop service agency. The main building, a restaurant or café, already possesses a building approval permit but the access construction was carried out without authorisation.

DPR Deputy Speaker Responds to Labour Union's Plan to Expose Parties Unserious About Manpower Bill

Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR), Cucun Ahmad Syamsurijal, has responded to a labour coalition's threat to publicly name political parties that are not serious about deliberating the Manpower Bill. He asserted that all factions in the DPR are united in their struggle for workers' rights. The labour representatives, however, claim some parties have shown a lack of commitment, with a few not even having prepared a draft of the bill.

IDX Maintains Investor Dialogue Amid MSCI Index Review

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has confirmed ongoing communication with MSCI following the latest index review, which saw several Indonesian stocks reclassified. IDX President Director Jeffrey Hendrik stated the dialogue aims to maintain investor confidence and that MSCI continues to use publicly disclosed IDX data in its rebalancing process. The changes, including removals and additions to the MSCI Global Standard and Small Cap indexes, will take effect on 1 September 2026.

SATUSEHAT Integrated with SIAK, Birth Certificates Can Be Issued on the Same Day

The Indonesian government has integrated the SATUSEHAT health platform with the centralised population administration system (SIAK), enabling birth certificates to be issued immediately after a birth is recorded at a healthcare facility. The initiative, launched in South Jakarta, aims to reduce bureaucracy by allowing data to move between systems rather than requiring citizens to visit multiple offices. Officials hailed the integration as a key step in digital governance, positioning population data as the backbone of the nation's digital ID programme.

IAKMI Urges Greater Public Protection from Heat Stroke During Hot Weather

The Indonesian Public Health Experts Association (IAKMI) is calling for stronger public protection against heat stroke, emphasising the need for safer environments in public spaces and workplaces. The association highlights that prevention requires both government intervention, such as providing cooling facilities, and individual measures like adequate hydration. Workers in high-temperature industries are identified as a particularly vulnerable group requiring targeted safeguards.

Health Minister Calls for Stronger Anaemia Education So Teens Understand Why They Must Take Iron Supplements

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has stressed the need to strengthen anaemia education for Indonesian teenagers, moving beyond simply distributing iron tablets to ensuring they understand the reasons for taking them. The minister's remarks came after hearing from students who admitted they were told by peers to store the supplements rather than consume them, highlighting a gap in health literacy. The government aims to involve children as active subjects in health promotion through school health units and youth forums.

Former BJB Director Complains of Illness, KPK Examination Postponed to Next Week

Yuddy Renaldi, the former President Director of Bank BJB, had his corruption investigation suspended after claiming to suffer from cancer and heart disease. The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has rescheduled the questioning for next week. Renaldi is a suspect in a case involving the procurement of advertising services that allegedly caused state losses of Rp 222 billion.

Molinas Will Use Nickel-Based Batteries, Rosan Says Indonesia Has 46 Percent of World Reserves

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani announced that the national electric motorcycle programme, Molinas, will utilise nickel-based batteries, leveraging Indonesia's position as holder of 46 percent of the world's nickel reserves. The government aims to build a fully domestic supply chain from raw material processing to battery pack production, involving ten national companies that have met local content requirements. This strategy seeks to ensure the motorcycles are affordable while positioning Indonesia as a regional and global champion in electric vehicle manufacturing.