Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 August 2026

Showing 251-300 of 1,860 articles

Government Targets Investment Realisation of Rp2,322 Trillion in 2027

The Indonesian government has set a national investment realisation target of Rp2,322 trillion for 2027, marking a 13.76 per cent increase from the 2026 target. Investment Minister Rosan Peresla Roeslani highlighted the sector's significant contribution, accounting for 39 per cent of the country's economic growth in the second quarter of 2026. The target is part of a broader five-year plan aiming for a total accumulated investment of Rp13,032 trillion between 2025 and 2029.

Primary Education Minister Clarifies Foreign Language Teaching from Year 1: Just an Introduction

Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Abdul Mu'ti has clarified that President Prabowo Subianto's plan to teach foreign languages from the first year of primary school will be an introductory activity rather than a compulsory subject. English will become a mandatory subject starting from Year 3 in 2027, while other languages like Mandarin and Korean are already offered at higher levels in some schools. The initiative follows President Prabowo's assertion that foreign language skills are essential for improving youth employability.

Environmental Organisation Optimistic Government Will Resolve Illegal Mining Cases

The environmental organisation Kaoem Telapak has expressed optimism that the government will pursue illegal mining cases to the end, targeting the main actors and financiers. The group urged law enforcement to follow the money trail, arguing that current enforcement only targets field operators, allowing the destructive practice to resume once public attention fades. President Prabowo Subianto recently echoed this sentiment in a state address, demanding the police and military take firm action and investigate any personnel involved in allowing thousands of illegal mines to operate.

Government Disburses Second Phase of Economic Stimulus Worth Rp26.34 Trillion

The Indonesian government has announced a second phase of economic stimulus worth Rp26.34 trillion to maintain public purchasing power. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto detailed that the package includes tax incentives, vocational training programmes, and food aid. The measures are part of broader fiscal plans outlined in the 2027 Draft State Budget, which targets a lower deficit of 2.40 percent of GDP.

School Renovations Targeted for Completion by 2029, Minister Proposes Budget

President Prabowo Subianto has set a 2029 deadline for the renovation of all schools and educational units requiring repair across Indonesia. The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is currently requesting additional funding from the Ministry of Finance to support the programme, which the President described as the largest school renovation effort in the nation's history. The initiative aims to ensure every child has access to safe and dignified learning facilities.

Mataram Tourism Office to Crack Down on Fake Buskers at Tourist Destinations

The Mataram Tourism Office (Dispar) has announced plans to take firm action against beggars posing as street musicians at popular tourist spots, citing significant complaints from visitors. Officials noted these individuals lack musical competence and are merely using the guise of busking to solicit money. Enhanced monitoring and enforcement operations will be implemented to keep destinations free from such disturbances.

Puan: DPR and the People Are Not Opposing Sides

House Speaker Puan Maharani has stressed that the Indonesian parliament and the public should not be positioned as opposing forces in a democracy. She called for the DPR to strengthen transparency and communication while urging the public to be more discerning with digital information. The remarks were made during a plenary session opening the 2026-2027 sitting year, which also featured President Prabowo Subianto's presentation of the 2027 state budget draft.

LPEI Defendant Denies Using Fictitious Documents for Loan Disbursement

Handoko Limaho, a director and beneficial owner of PT Tebo Indah, has denied allegations of using fictitious documents to secure financing from the Indonesian Export Financing Institution (LPEI). He argued that the disputed transaction values were lower than the company's actual revenue from crude palm oil sales, which he claimed reached Rp71 billion in 2018. The case involves eight defendants accused of causing state losses of approximately Rp992.82 billion in a corruption scandal spanning 2015 to 2020.

Police Dismantle 'Ujangbet' Online Gambling Syndicate Across Five Cities, Seize Rp 10 Billion and Gold

The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Unit (Bareskrim) has uncovered an international online gambling syndicate operating under the name 'Ujangbet', arresting nine suspects in simultaneous raids across five cities. The syndicate employed a novel money laundering method, converting gambling proceeds into mobile phone credit to obscure transactions, with a total turnover reaching Rp 890 billion in the past year. Authorities seized cash, gold jewellery, and electronic devices as part of the operation, which aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's Asta Cita programme.

Researcher says Prabowo's speech boosted IHSG

A political researcher stated that President Prabowo Subianto's state address on Friday helped drive a significant rally in the Indonesia Stock Exchange. The speech, which reaffirmed the government's commitment to reforming state-owned enterprises, boosted investor confidence and buying interest. The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) closed up 1.59 percent, buoyed by expectations of fiscal discipline and six percent economic growth in 2027.

Prabowo vows to begin construction of Java north coast sea wall

President Prabowo Subianto has committed to launching the Giant Sea Wall project along Java's northern coast, a 500-kilometre protective barrier stretching from Banten to Gresik, East Java. The megaproject, estimated to cost $80 billion and take up to 20 years to complete, aims to shield tens of millions of residents from land subsidence and rising sea levels while also providing clean water infrastructure and a new economic corridor. Prabowo stressed the urgency of starting construction immediately, citing technological breakthroughs by the National Research and Innovation Agency and drawing comparisons to flood defence systems in the Netherlands.

Education Ministry Separates Budget Allocation for Learning Studio Construction

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has confirmed that the budget for building centralised learning studios, an initiative proposed by President Prabowo Subianto, has been ring-fenced. This separate allocation ensures that funding for other educational programmes, including school revitalisation, will not be affected. The ministry plans to renovate an existing educational television studio in Jakarta to commence distance learning broadcasts this year.

Expert: Regional Governments Key to Accelerating President Prabowo's Programmes

A public policy expert has stated that regional governments are crucial for accelerating the implementation of President Prabowo Subianto's national programmes. Successful execution of initiatives like the 3 million homes project and food self-sufficiency requires strong synchronisation and collaboration between central ministries and local administrations down to the village level.

From Temporary Shelters to Productive Enterprises: BNPB and PNM Boost Agam's Local Economic Recovery

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) and PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) are collaborating to revitalise the livelihoods of disaster-affected communities in Agam Regency, West Sumatra. The initiative focuses on developing local potential, such as smoked fish from Lake Maninjau and betel nut processing in Salareh Aia, through skills training, production equipment, and access to unsecured financing. The programme aims to transition residents from aid dependency to sustainable economic independence.

West Java Government and Police Hold National Assembly to Strengthen Regional Security

The West Java Provincial Government, alongside the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), National Police (Polri), and the public, reinforced their commitment to maintaining security and order through a 'National Assembly to Guard and Care for West Java for Indonesia'. The event, held at the West Java People's Struggle Monument in Bandung, featured a joint declaration. It also included the inauguration of a public aspiration post and the distribution of aid for disabled persons and free health check-ups.

House Commission XI says PFII could offer incentives up to dual citizenship

Indonesia's House Commission XI has stated that the planned International Financial Centre (PFII) could offer a range of incentives, including Golden Visas, zero per cent tax, and dual citizenship, to attract global capital. The commission's chairman emphasised that channelling this foreign investment into the real sector is crucial for creating jobs and strengthening economic growth. President Prabowo Subianto has announced the centre will initially be located in Jakarta before expanding to Bali.

Bali Governor Responds to Israeli Citizens Opening Businesses in Bali

Bali Governor Wayan Koster has acknowledged recent reports of Israeli nationals operating businesses on the island and plans to coordinate with the central government on the matter. Koster emphasised that the authority to verify the presence of foreign nationals rests with the central government, not the provincial administration. He assured that the issue would not affect broader investor confidence in Bali, framing it as a matter of inter-state relations to be handled wisely.

DPR: School rehabilitation must be inclusive to support child development

House Commission X Chair Hetifah Sjaifudian has urged that the government's ambitious school renovation programme, targeting hundreds of thousands of schools by 2029, must go beyond physical repairs to create inclusive, safe, and healthy learning environments. She stressed the need for proper sanitation, clean water, and disability access as part of President Prabowo Subianto's strategic push for educational equity. The President confirmed that 71,744 schools had been renovated by 2026, with the goal of completing all schools and Islamic boarding schools nationwide by 2029.

Iran to Join BRICS New Development Bank in Challenge to US

Iran is set to join the BRICS New Development Bank in September, according to its central bank governor, as the Islamic Republic seeks alternative financing channels amid crippling Western sanctions and conflict. Membership would grant Iran access to funding for infrastructure and sustainable development projects, further aligning it with the expanded bloc. The move comes as the US threatens tariffs on nations trading with Iran, underscoring the growing geopolitical rift.

IESR: Electrification and Reduction of Subsidised Fuel Offer Multiple Benefits

The Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR) has endorsed the government's plan to accelerate electrification and phase out subsidised fuel, citing multiple benefits. The think tank emphasised that the policy could reduce energy imports, improve urban air quality, and foster the national electric vehicle industry. It also stressed the need for fair implementation, protection for vulnerable groups, and improved public transport to ensure the transition is effective.

The Meaning of Independence for the Young Generation from an Islamic Perspective

This article explores the concept of independence beyond physical liberation, framing it as a continuous struggle for justice, welfare, and moral integrity for Indonesia's youth. It argues that from an Islamic perspective, true freedom involves liberation from servitude to anything other than God and carries a responsibility to build a just and prosperous society. The piece calls on young Muslims to strengthen their faith, knowledge, and social contributions to address modern challenges such as poverty, moral crises, and the negative impacts of globalisation.

Tanjung Priok Port Police Plant Trees with Residents to Welcome Independence Day

The Tanjung Priok Port Police joined local residents and online motorcycle taxi communities in a tree-planting initiative in North Jakarta to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The activity involved planting 20 hardwood trees as a tangible expression of environmental concern and the spirit of mutual cooperation. Police officials expressed hope that the effort would extend beyond the ceremony, with ongoing care for the trees to benefit future generations.

Health Ministry saves Rp10.25 trillion on medical device procurement

Indonesia's Health Ministry has achieved savings of Rp10.25 trillion, or 52 per cent, on medical device procurement for 2026 through centralised purchasing. The consolidation of orders, including for catheterisation laboratories and pharmaceuticals, is part of a broader efficiency drive within the health budget. President Prabowo Subianto also announced plans to build and revitalise 441 regional public hospitals to ensure every district and city has advanced medical facilities.

PAN Faction Leader: President Prabowo's Speech a Firm Direction for National Progress

The leader of the National Mandate Party (PAN) faction in the Indonesian House of Representatives has praised President Prabowo Subianto's state address, describing it as an honest and grounded vision for the nation's future. She highlighted the government's reported economic growth of 5.45% in the first half of 2026, the highest in 13 years, and the achievement of food self-sufficiency. The statement also underscored the party's commitment to overseeing transformative policies and ensuring food sovereignty translates into welfare for farmers and fishers.

Danantara Drives Revival of State-Owned Enterprises, Krakatau Steel and Kimia Farma Recover

Several Indonesian state-owned enterprises (SOEs) are showing signs of operational and financial recovery under the management of Danantara Indonesia. PT Krakatau Steel and PT Kimia Farma have returned to profitability following restructuring, capital injections, and efficiency drives. The turnaround is seen as an early vindication of the government's new approach to managing its portfolio of state assets.

Rosan: 6,500 Export Transactions Worth IDR 249.72 Trillion Monitored by DSI

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani has revealed that the government has analysed approximately 6,500 export transactions worth around USD 14 billion through the Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) platform since June 2026. The initiative aims to enhance transparency and curb practices such as transfer pricing and under-invoicing by integrating data from multiple ministries. Rosan also voiced support for establishing a mineral exchange to further improve governance and price discovery in commodity trading.

Prabowo Subianto Reveals Surprising Facts About Indonesia's 'Sky Toll Road'

President Prabowo Subianto has highlighted the critical role of digital connectivity in achieving equitable development across Indonesia. He revealed that 4G networks now cover nearly 99% of the population, while the SATRIA-1 satellite is providing internet access to over 31,000 public service locations, predominantly schools. The President also emphasised the integration of physical and digital public services to cut bureaucracy and costs for citizens.

Bulog DKI-Banten Commences First Food Aid Distribution on Pulau Kelapa

State logistics firm Bulog has initiated the distribution of food aid for the July-September 2026 allocation in the Thousand Islands regency, starting with 959 recipients on Pulau Kelapa. The region, comprising 3,647 beneficiaries across six sub-districts, presents logistical challenges due to its archipelagic nature. Officials emphasised that meticulous planning is key to ensuring the government programme delivers timely and targeted support to bolster community food resilience.

When the Entertainment Stage Forgets Boundaries

A recent incident at a Jakarta music festival, where a brand activation challenged attendees to recite a Quranic verse for free alcohol, has ignited a debate about the limits of creativity in Indonesia's entertainment industry. The event, which led to blasphemy charges, highlights a dangerous blind spot where commercial novelty clashes with deep-seated religious sensitivities. The case underscores the urgent need for event organisers and brands to implement rigorous social and cultural review processes, rather than relying on viral controversy that ultimately damages all parties involved.

DPR Appreciates Prabowo's 8 Priority Programmes in 2027 Draft Budget: Pro-People

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has expressed appreciation for the eight national priority programmes outlined by President Prabowo Subianto in the 2027 Draft State Budget (RAPBN). Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad stated that the programmes, which include food sovereignty and energy independence, are designed to benefit the people. The 2027 state expenditure is planned at IDR 4,097.2 trillion, an increase from the previous year.

2027 Investment Realisation Targeted at Rp 2,322 Trillion

The Indonesian government has set an ambitious investment realisation target of Rp 2,322 trillion for 2027, up from Rp 2,041 trillion in 2026. Investment contributed 39% to economic growth in the second quarter of 2026, significantly above the typical 28-29% range. The Minister of Investment and Downstreaming stressed that the focus is on quality job creation and improving public welfare, not just hitting numerical targets.

When Social Media Algorithms Become the New Mufti for Young People

The way young people absorb spiritual values has shifted radically, with social media algorithms now acting as de facto religious authorities. This trend erodes traditional chains of scholarly transmission (sanad) and fosters fragmented, superficial understandings of Islam. Experts call for a reconstruction of digital religious literacy and a more adaptive online presence from mainstream scholars to counter the spread of shallow and polarising content.

Purbaya: Tax revenue grows 30 per cent as of August 2026

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa announced that Indonesia's tax revenue collection grew by 30 per cent as of August 2026, a significant improvement over the same period last year. The minister expressed confidence that this strong performance provides a solid foundation for substantially improving the country's tax ratio. The government is targeting total state revenue of Rp3,426 trillion in the 2027 draft state budget, driven primarily by enhanced tax compliance and an expanded tax base.

Saving from an Early Age, Planting the Future

A financial literacy programme in Batang, Central Java, is teaching primary school children the fundamental difference between needs and wants through the habit of saving. The initiative, run by university students, uses simple language and educational games to instil discipline and priority-setting from a young age. The programme argues that adult financial problems often stem from poor priority management rather than low income, making early character building a crucial long-term investment.

Dasco explains purpose of limited dual citizenship proposal

House Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad has clarified that the government's proposal for limited dual citizenship aims to enable potential diaspora members to contribute to Indonesia without renouncing their existing nationalities. The initiative, still a discourse, is intended to be designed on a restricted and selective basis as outlined by President Prabowo Subianto. The proposal seeks to attract specific talents needed by the nation, including scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs.

P2MI Ministry Targets Higher Quality Placements for Indonesian Migrant Workers by 2027

The Ministry for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (P2MI) is shifting its focus from quantity to quality in overseas placements, aiming to send more workers into formal sectors with certified skills by 2027. Minister Mukhtarudin highlighted that this strategy is intended to secure better working conditions and boost remittance flows, which reached Rp288 trillion in 2025. The initiative comes as the number of Indonesian migrant workers abroad surpassed 4.06 million, reflecting their growing economic contribution.

Meta Deletes 159 Million Scam Ads and 11 Million Accounts, 63 Arrested

Meta has intensified its crackdown on online fraud, removing over 159 million scam advertisements and nearly 11 million related accounts last year. The company's proactive measures, which include collaboration with law enforcement and other tech firms, led to the arrest of 63 individuals from scam syndicates. Meta aims to have 90% of its global advertising revenue come from verified business entities by the end of 2026.

Hundreds of Community Elements Join National Assembly in Bandung

Hundreds of participants from various community groups, the military, police, and online motorcycle taxi drivers gathered in Bandung for the 'Jawara' National Assembly. The event, attended by West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi and regional security leaders, aimed to demonstrate a shared commitment to maintaining public order and security. The assembly featured community activities including a free motorcycle servicing programme for ride-hailing drivers.

OT Group Management Apologises After Office Protested Over Alcohol Challenge

Management of OT Group has issued a public apology after mass organisations protested at its West Jakarta office over a controversial event challenge. The protest was sparked by a competition at a music festival where participants were allegedly offered alcoholic drinks as a prize for reciting Quranic verses. Police have named four suspects in the case, with two already detained as the legal process continues.

Prabowo Allocates Rp195.3 Trillion for Food Security, Highest in Five Years

The Indonesian government has earmarked Rp195.3 trillion for food security in the 2027 draft state budget, marking the highest allocation in five years. The funds are aimed at boosting domestic production, stabilising supply and prices, and improving the welfare of farmers and fishers. Key initiatives include expanding rice cultivation areas, developing irrigation networks, and revitalising salt production land.

Coal downstreaming into DME can create jobs, says CORE

The downstreaming of coal into dimethyl ether (DME) could generate employment and reduce Indonesia's reliance on energy imports, according to the Center of Reform on Economics (CORE). CORE Director Mohammad Faisal noted that if successfully implemented, the programme could halt imports of LPG and diesel. President Prabowo Subianto has affirmed that profits from state-owned enterprises will be used to accelerate such strategic downstreaming projects.

OJK Awaits Presidential Regulation on Strategic Mineral and Commodity Exchange

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) is awaiting a Presidential Regulation to detail the implementation of the newly announced Mineral and Strategic Commodities Exchange. President Prabowo Subianto has set a target for the exchange, which aims to establish domestic price benchmarks for key resources, to be operational by 1 January 2027 under OJK supervision.

68 ANTARA Photojournalism Works Exhibited at Yogyakarta's Zero Kilometre Point

A public exhibition showcasing 68 journalistic photographs by Indonesia's national news agency ANTARA has opened at Yogyakarta's iconic Zero Kilometre Point. The 'MERDEKA' exhibition, running from 14 to 21 August 2026, aims to present authentic historical records of the nation's journey in an accessible public space. Officials highlighted the unique open-air format, which allows the public to engage with rare and authentic moments from across the archipelago without the constraints of a traditional gallery setting.

Explanation of Limited Dual Citizenship and the List of Countries That Use It

Limited dual citizenship offers a legal pathway for individuals, particularly children of mixed-nationality marriages, to hold two passports until they reach adulthood. Indonesia adopted this concept through its 2006 Citizenship Law, requiring a choice of nationality by the age of 21. The article also outlines other nations with similar policies and discusses the administrative challenges involved.

Education Ministry to Build Centralised TV Studio for Distance Learning, Targets Completion This Year

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is preparing a centralised educational television studio in Jakarta to support distance learning, with operations expected to begin this year. The initiative, which revives a previously used facility, will feature top teachers and potentially foreign experts to deliver a wide range of subjects, including foreign languages. The programme is part of a presidential directive to expand access to quality education and improve student competitiveness.

Indonesia Finance Minister confident 2027 budget targets can be met

Finance Minister Purbaya expressed confidence that the 2027 state budget targets are achievable, citing strong policy coordination across monetary, fiscal, and financial sectors. The proposed budget sets state revenue at Rp3,426.0 trillion and spending at Rp4,097.2 trillion, with a deficit projected at 2.40 percent of GDP. The government expects full-year 2026 economic growth to approach 6 percent, providing a solid foundation for the 2027 target.

Open Science and Open Access in Islam

This article explores the strong alignment between the modern Open Science movement and traditional Islamic scholarly values. It argues that Islam views knowledge as a trust, promoting its widest possible dissemination, while also acknowledging ethical boundaries. The piece critiques modern paywalls and expensive publication charges as creating new inequalities that conflict with the principle of knowledge as a public good.

Bali Immigration Deports Lithuanian National Linked to Travel Agency

Immigration authorities in Bali have deported a Lithuanian citizen for misusing a business visit visa by engaging in paid content creation and digital marketing. The individual was also found to have connections to a travel agency offering services to Israeli passport holders. A five-year entry ban has been imposed alongside the deportation.

Prabowo Allocates Record-High State Budget of IDR 4,097 Trillion for 2027

President Prabowo Subianto has proposed a record state budget of IDR 4,097.2 trillion for 2027, the highest in Indonesian history. The draft budget outlines a 6.6% increase in spending compared to the previous year, alongside a planned reduction in the fiscal deficit to 2.40% of GDP. The proposal was delivered during the 2027 State Budget speech at the House of Representatives building in Jakarta.

Net Income Should Be Key Measure for New Ride-Hailing Revenue-Sharing Rules

An Indonesian ride-hailing drivers' association argues that net income, not just the revenue split percentage, must be the primary indicator of success for new government regulations. The rules, outlined in Presidential Regulation No. 27 of 2026, mandate a minimum 92 per cent share for drivers. The association is calling for a national evaluation system to monitor the real-world impact on drivers' earnings after operational costs.