Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 27 August 2026

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House Commission I: Aircraft carrier presence should bring technology transfer

House of Representatives Commission I Chairman Utut Adianto has stressed that the arrival of the aircraft carrier ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi, to be renamed KRI Gajah Mada, must include technology transfer for the Indonesian Navy and domestic shipbuilders. The vessel, acquired through a government-to-government grant from Italy, is expected to arrive in Indonesia between 15 and 20 September. The Ministry of Defence has also expressed hope that the carrier will boost the domestic maritime defence industry.

Trade Minister Sends Firm Message to Producers of Specially Labelled Rice Amid Growing Trend

Indonesia's Trade Minister Budi Santoso has stated that the growing presence of specialty rice varieties in modern retail will not displace medium and premium rice, as each category serves a distinct market segment. He emphasised that producers may continue to innovate as long as products comply with labelling standards and regulations. Retailers also stressed the importance of accurate product claims to protect consumers.

New manpower law to strengthen worker protection: Ministry

Indonesia's Ministry of Manpower is drafting a new Manpower Law aimed at creating a robust legal framework to protect workers' rights amid evolving workplace dynamics. The bill, targeted for completion by October, addresses issues such as outsourced worker welfare, decent wages, and fair wage structures. The government is engaging trade unions, the House of Representatives, and the business sector to ensure the legislation balances worker protection with business sustainability.

Sengkarut Perizinan Apotek: Ketika OSS Belum Menjadi Solusi

The article examines persistent implementation problems in Indonesia's Online Single Submission Risk Based Approach (OSS-RBA) licensing system, particularly for independent pharmacies. The Gerakan Apoteker Pemilik Apotek Independen (GAPAI) has reported inconsistent interpretations between regional health offices and investment boards, technical data update difficulties, and system synchronisation failures. These administrative uncertainties create additional costs for pharmacy owners and can disrupt patient services, including BPJS Kesehatan's Program Rujuk Balik credentialing.

National Traffic Police Chief Embraces Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers as Traffic Safety Pioneers

The National Police Traffic Corps (Korlantas) is encouraging online motorcycle taxi (ojol) drivers to become pioneers of road safety. Head of Korlantas Inspector General Wibowo said ojol drivers are strategic partners in building a culture of orderly traffic. The initiative aligns with the 'Polantas Karib' programme, which promotes active, responsive and integrity-based partnerships with the public.

ICW Urges DPR to Publish Draft Asset Forfeiture Bill

Indonesia Corruption Watch has called on the House of Representatives to release the draft of the Asset Forfeiture Bill, warning that the lack of transparency could undermine efforts to combat corruption and economic crime. The watchdog questioned the DPR's decision to take over the bill as its own initiative, arguing this has slowed the process and opened the door to weakening key provisions. ICW also highlighted that the bill has a long history dating back to 2008 and was only formally submitted by the government in 2023.

Agriculture Minister Amran sends hundreds of pumps to help tackle forest and land fires in Kalimantan

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has dispatched 200 water pumps to four provinces in Kalimantan to assist in tackling forest and land fires and to support irrigation for farmers. The move follows direct instructions from President Prabowo Subianto, with the pumps also intended for long-term agricultural use after the fires are extinguished. The Ministry of Agriculture has not yet received reports of agricultural land affected by the fires.

Mount Semeru trails closed after forest fires, 170 climbers evacuated

Forest fires near Mount Semeru's Ranu Kembang area have forced the closure of all hiking trails in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, with 170 climbers evacuated safely from Ranu Kumbolo campsite. Park officials have deployed rangers and local guides to assist the descent and are offering full refunds or rescheduling options to affected visitors. The closure prioritises visitor safety and firefighting operations on Java's highest peak, a major trekking destination.

Residents Recount Fire in Kebon Melati, Suspected Electrical Short Circuit

A fire in Kebon Melati, Central Jakarta, has left 48 people from four families displaced after their homes were destroyed. Residents believe the blaze was caused by an electrical short circuit, with strong winds and flammable materials accelerating its spread. Affected residents are currently sheltering in a local prayer hall and neighbourhood post.

To prevent gadget addiction, KPPPA urges children to return to physical interaction spaces

Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Arifah Fauzi has stressed the importance of returning children to physical interaction spaces and traditional games rooted in local wisdom to counter gadget dependency. She made the remarks while inaugurating Kampung Dolanan Sidowayah and other community facilities in Klaten, Central Java. The initiative also includes massage and affiliate training for local women to develop wellness tourism.

172 Hikers Evacuated as Fire Hits Mount Semeru Climbing Route

A total of 172 hikers were evacuated from Mount Semeru after a fire broke out in the Ranu Kembang block. The hikers had been at Ranu Kumbolo since Wednesday and were guided down to Ranupane as a precautionary measure. Firefighting efforts were still ongoing as of Thursday afternoon.

Purbaya speaks out on customs official detained by KPK

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has responded to the Corruption Eradication Commission's (KPK) detention of a customs official, stating that reforms are ongoing within the Directorate General of Customs and Excise and the Directorate General of Taxes. He expressed hope that corruption will decline, thereby improving state revenue collection and taxpayer confidence. The KPK has detained the Head of the Kediri Customs Office and named several other officials and private sector figures as suspects in an import bribery case.

Padel Court on DKI Jakarta Provincial Government Land in West Jakarta Was Previously Subject to Enforcement in 2025

A padel court building constructed on land owned by the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government in Kembangan Utara, West Jakarta, is facing renewed enforcement action. The West Jakarta city administration will coordinate with the police to address the alleged unilateral acquisition of the provincial asset. The site was previously subject to a building enforcement operation in 2025, and officials have pledged to take firm action, including issuing demolition orders.

Deputy Minister affirms government neutrality in 35th NU Congress

Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Romo Muhammad Syafi'i has stated that the government fully respects Nahdlatul Ulama's independence in holding its 35th Congress and will not intervene in the organisation's internal dynamics. He instructed all levels of the Ministry of Religious Affairs to remain neutral and professional throughout the process. The Deputy Minister expressed hope that the congress would proceed with fraternity and produce trustworthy leadership.

DPR Opens Public Input, Guarantees Asset Forfeiture Bill Passed by December 2026

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has committed to passing the Asset Forfeiture Bill by 15 December 2026 at the latest. The commitment was reaffirmed by Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad during a meeting with the Pati Bersatu Community Alliance, who requested written documentation of the timeline. The DPR also pledged to open public consultation channels, including public hearings, to ensure transparency and accountability in the legislative process.

Forest on Mount Semeru slopes ablaze since Wednesday night

A forest fire on the slopes of Mount Semeru in Lumajang, East Java, remained uncontained as of Thursday due to difficult terrain. Around 170 hikers were evacuated to Ranu Pane by a joint team to prevent casualties.

75% of Indonesia's Gas Used Domestically, Largest Share for Industry

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources reports that 74.55% of national natural gas output is now consumed domestically, with industry as the largest user. Exports account for the remaining 25.39%. However, national gas production remains below target due to pipeline disruptions and operational incidents at several facilities.

Maruarar Reveals Significant Increase in Subsidised Housing FLPP Quota, Reaching 350,000 Units

Housing and Settlement Areas Minister Maruarar Sirait announced that the quota for the Housing Financing Liquidity Facility (FLPP) has been raised from 220,000 to 350,000 units, the largest in history. The increase is supported by Bank Indonesia's relaxation of the minimum reserve requirement, providing around Rp 80 trillion in additional liquidity. Danantara Indonesia is also backing the Three Million Houses Programme through a housing expo offering competitive financing schemes.

Education Ministry reminds schools TKA SMA registration open until 27 September

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has reminded schools that registration for the Senior High School Academic Ability Test (TKA SMA) remains open until 27 September 2026. Schools are urged to complete student data verification and resolve administrative issues well before the deadline. The ministry stressed that no student should miss the opportunity to sit the test due to outdated data or poor communication.

Trade Minister Budi Says Egg Price of Rp26,000 per Kg Still Below Reference Price, Ideal at Rp30,000

Trade Minister Budi Santoso has urged greater absorption of layer chicken eggs to prevent farm-gate prices from falling further, noting the national average price of Rp26,000 per kilogram remains below the agreed reference price of Rp30,000. He warned that persistently low prices could make it difficult for farmers to sustain production given ongoing feed and operational costs. The government will encourage absorption mechanisms aligned with the reference price to support farmer viability while ensuring fair consumer prices.

Bulog Bandung guarantees rice stocks safe until end of 2026

Perum Bulog's Bandung branch has assured the public that rice supplies in the Greater Bandung area will remain sufficient until the end of 2026. Current stocks stand at approximately 25,000 tonnes, with ongoing grain absorption from farmers expected to further bolster reserves. The agency is also continuing its SPHP programme to stabilise prices and has advised against panic buying.

Researcher: DPR has strong political will to complete Asset Forfeiture Bill

A researcher from Indikator Politik Indonesia says the House of Representatives has demonstrated strong political will to pass the Asset Forfeiture Bill. Three DPR deputy speakers have signed a pledge to resign if the bill is not completed by 15 December 2026. The commitment was made during an audience with demonstrators from the Pati United Community Alliance.

OJK Records Crypto Transactions Down to Rp20.52 Trillion as of July

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) reported that crypto asset transaction values reached Rp20.52 trillion by July 2026, a decline from Rp28.58 trillion in June. The regulator highlighted the completion of digital asset infrastructure, including two exchanges, two clearing houses, and 27 licensed traders. OJK also noted progress in its regulatory sandbox, with seven participants graduating across areas such as gold tokenisation and rupiah stablecoin issuance.

Gibran and Several KMP Ministers Attend NU Congress

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka and several ministers from the KMP coalition attended the opening of the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress in Jombang, East Java. President Prabowo Subianto was scheduled to officially open the event. Organisers confirmed that all technical and administrative preparations were complete.

IPW Urges Thorough Investigation into Alleged Rp 58.5 Billion Fraud Involving Senior Commissioner F

Indonesia Police Watch (IPW) has called on the National Police Criminal Investigation Department (Bareskrim Polri) to handle professionally and accountably a report alleging fraud and/or embezzlement of Rp 58.5 billion in a gold mining investment. The report was filed by a Malaysian investor against an active police officer with the rank of Senior Commissioner (Kombes), identified only as F. IPW emphasised that the case must be processed transparently while upholding the presumption of innocence.

Golkar Ready to Oversee Asset Forfeiture Bill: State Has Authority to Seize Proceeds of Crime

Golkar faction chairman M. Sarmuji has affirmed the party's commitment to seeing the Asset Forfeiture Bill through to completion as part of strengthening anti-corruption efforts. He stressed that the legislation must provide legal certainty, protect citizens' rights, and include strong oversight mechanisms to prevent abuse of power. Sarmuji also called for intensified input from experts and academics and constructive inter-faction dialogue to ensure the bill is robust, fair, and constitutional.

J Trust Bank City Tower Starts Construction, Airlangga Reveals it as a Symbol of Indonesia's ...

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto attended the groundbreaking of J Trust Bank's new headquarters in Jakarta, highlighting Japan's role as Indonesia's fifth-largest investor with USD 3.1 billion invested in 2025. The 24-storey tower, built by a Japanese-majority-owned contractor, is seen as a symbol of confidence in Indonesia's economic prospects and a milestone in strengthening bilateral economic ties. The government also reiterated its commitment to improving the investment climate through debottlenecking efforts and hopes J Trust Bank will boost financing for productive sectors and MSMEs.

Puan Affirms Asset Forfeiture Bill Deliberation to Conclude by December 2026

House Speaker Puan Maharani has confirmed that the House of Representatives will complete deliberation of the Asset Forfeiture Bill before the end of the 2026 sitting period. The commitment follows public demonstrations and an audience with activists, during which Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad pledged to resign if the target is missed. The bill is now scheduled for passage at a plenary session on 15 December 2026.

BIN Chief Urges Regulation to Prevent Espionage and Foreign Intervention

The head of Indonesia's State Intelligence Agency (BIN), M. Herindra, has called for the establishment of a clear legal framework to counter espionage and foreign intervention, noting that no comprehensive regulation currently exists. Speaking at a national seminar, he stressed that such rules should not be seen as restricting civil liberties but as strengthening the state's ability to protect national interests. A University of Indonesia academic said the proposal is highly relevant to the current geopolitical situation.

Experts Warn Pregnant Women of Dangers of Forest Fire Haze for Foetuses

The Indonesian Obstetrics and Gynaecology Association (POGI) has warned that exposure to haze from forest and land fires poses serious risks to foetal development, particularly in the first trimester. The smoke contains endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as dioxins, carbon monoxide and bisphenol A, which can increase the risk of reproductive organ abnormalities in babies. POGI has urged pregnant women in affected areas to wear medical masks, limit outdoor activity, and called for work-from-home policies for pregnant workers.

Congratulating the 35th NU Congress, Haedar: May It Strengthen Brotherhood

Muhammadiyah chairman Haedar Nashir has congratulated Nahdlatul Ulama on its 35th Congress, praising the event's theme and expressing hope that its outcomes will benefit the organisation, the nation, and humanity. He also emphasised the importance of the congress as a platform to strengthen fraternal ties between NU and other Islamic and religious organisations in Indonesia.

NMC Battery Incentives Seen as Accelerator for Nickel Downstreaming

Government plans to offer incentives for nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) battery-based electric vehicles are viewed as a key driver for Indonesia's nickel downstreaming agenda. Project Coordinator ENTREV Eko Adji Buwono said policy support is essential to strengthen domestic demand for nickel-based batteries and ensure the national battery ecosystem can compete with lithium iron phosphate alternatives. The incentives are expected to boost value addition, create jobs, and reduce imports of batteries and fuel.

KRI Gajah Mada: From military might to humanitarian strength

Indonesia's acquisition of the Italian aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi, to be renamed KRI Gajah Mada, represents a strategic shift in the country's maritime defence posture. The vessel, scheduled to arrive in September 2026, is expected to serve as a mobile operations centre capable of supporting both military and humanitarian missions. Despite its age, the platform offers significant potential for modernisation to meet Indonesia's operational requirements.

TKD Policy 2027: Purbaya Postpones 30% Regional Employee Spending Obligation

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that the postponement of the mandatory spending policy capping regional government employee expenditure at 30% will remain in effect in 2027. The policy, part of the 2027 Transfer to Regions (TKD) framework, also defers the minimum 40% infrastructure spending requirement. The TKD budget for 2027 has been set at Rp 735 trillion, a 5.5% increase from the 2026 outlook.

House leadership receives AMPB aspirations

House of Representatives leaders met with the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB) during a peaceful demonstration demanding the passage of the Asset Forfeiture Bill and stronger anti-corruption measures. Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad presented a letter of commitment to complete the bill's formation. The meeting took place at the Parliament Complex in Senayan, Jakarta.

Iron Deficiency Can Disrupt Children's Learning and Activity

A paediatrician has warned that iron deficiency in children can lead to iron-deficiency anaemia, impairing their growth, learning ability, and daily activity. The advice was given during a nutrition education event held by PT Sarihusada Generasi Mahardhika and Raja Susu across 17 locations in Greater Jakarta. The company also marked 72 years of operation, highlighting its role in supporting child nutrition in Indonesia.

NTB strengthens Regional Innovation House as research downstreaming hub

The West Nusa Tenggara provincial government and the National Research and Innovation Agency are developing the Regional Innovation House as a centre for turning research into commercially valuable local products. Three research proposals targeting food processing, groundwater and marine sectors have been prepared, alongside incubation support for small businesses and farming groups. A key project with Mataram University has extended fresh palm sap shelf life from around five hours to 40 days.

Digibos Highlights Importance of Digital Marketing for Business Competitiveness

Digibos has emphasised the growing need for integrated digital marketing strategies as consumer behaviour shifts across multiple online platforms. The company argues that businesses must move beyond social media presence to master SEO, content marketing, digital advertising, and data analytics to remain competitive. Its bootcamp programme offers structured training across 11 modules, including practical client projects and real advertising budget experience.

China’s robots are leaving the exhibition floor. Now comes the hard part

Chinese robotics firms are moving beyond demonstrations to deploy machines in factories, homes and commercial settings, but face significant hurdles in reliability, real-world data collection and scaling production. Industry leaders acknowledge a 'ChatGPT moment' for robots remains years away, even as investor enthusiasm has driven sharp share price swings for companies like Unitree. The sector's commercial viability will depend on overcoming these technical and market challenges while convincing consumers of robots' practical value.

40 homes in South Cipete adopt Stop Open Defecation

Forty households in Cipete Selatan, South Jakarta, have adopted the Stop Open Defecation (BABS) programme as part of efforts to achieve Community-Based Total Sanitation (STBM). The initiative was supported by corporate social responsibility funding from the Al-Ikhlas Mosque Foundation, which built two communal septic tanks serving the RT 015/03 neighbourhood. Officials hope the project will raise awareness of hygiene and encourage other neighbourhoods to follow suit.

DPR Approves Sale of Former KRI Ki Hajar Dewantara via Auction Scheme

The House of Representatives Commission I has approved the sale of the former Indonesian Navy training ship KRI Ki Hajar Dewantara-364 through an auction mechanism. The vessel, built in 1979 in Yugoslavia, is no longer operationally viable and has exceeded its economic and technical lifespan. The Ministry of Defence argues that auctioning the asset is a rational and accountable way to optimise its remaining economic value while avoiding further storage and maintenance costs.

DEN reveals Indonesia's nickel-cobalt reserve valuation reaches 800 billion US dollars

Indonesia's nickel and cobalt reserves are valued at approximately 800 billion US dollars, according to the National Economic Council's mining expert team. The valuation is based on 52 million tonnes of nickel and 1.2 million tonnes of cobalt reserves that can currently be monetised. The downstreaming policy has significantly boosted nickel exports, which have risen twelvefold since 2014 to 37 billion US dollars last year.

DPR Confirms Asset Forfeiture Bill to Be Passed by December, Opens Space for Public Input

The House of Representatives (DPR) has reaffirmed its commitment to pass the Asset Forfeiture Bill by 15 December 2026 at the latest. The pledge was made following a plenary session and a meeting with the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB), which demanded a written commitment from the DPR. The DPR also pledged to open public consultation channels, including public hearings, to ensure transparency and accountability throughout the legislative process.

Pertamina EP Jambi deploys fire trucks to forest fire-prone areas

Pertamina EP Jambi has stationed three fire trucks in areas vulnerable to forest and land fires across Jambi, including Kenali Asam, Bajubang and Petaling. The company emphasised that collaboration between the private sector, government, authorities and communities is essential for rapid detection and prevention. The move forms part of its commitment to protect public safety, the environment and its operational facilities.

Yogyakarta High Prosecutor's Office Responds After Losing Pretrial Motion Against Former Condongcatur Village Head Reno

The Yogyakarta High Prosecutor's Office has said it will study the full ruling after a pretrial judge annulled the suspect status of former Condongcatur village head Reno Candra Sangaji and another former official in a land misuse case. The court found the suspect determinations legally invalid and ordered the immediate release of both men from detention. Prosecutors said they respect the judge's authority but are awaiting the complete written decision before deciding their next steps.

Pasar ASEAN Tembus US$ 3,9 Triliun, 'Navigating ASEAN' Jadi Peta Wajib Eksekutif FMCG

ASEAN's combined GDP reached US$3.9 trillion in 2024, making Southeast Asia the world's fifth-largest economy and a magnet for multinational expansion, supported by trade agreements like ATIGA and the ASEAN Single Window. A new book, 'Navigating ASEAN', addresses the operational challenges of fragmented consumer markets, arguing that copy-paste strategies fail and that FMCG executives must balance global efficiency with hyper-local adaptation. The publication aims to bridge the gap between Western management theory and the realities of Southeast Asian consumer dynamics.

Civil Coalition Highlights Three Potential Substantive Setbacks in Asset Forfeiture Bill Draft

A civil society coalition has identified at least three potential substantive setbacks in the House of Representatives' version of the Asset Forfeiture Bill compared to the government's earlier draft. The concerns relate to the removal of illicit enrichment provisions, narrowing of non-conviction based asset forfeiture, and unclear institutional arrangements for asset management. The coalition is urging the DPR and government to make the draft publicly available to ensure transparency during deliberations.

Case File Complete, Two Bribers of Kuansing Regent to Be Tried Soon

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has transferred two suspects accused of bribing Kuantan Singingi Regent Suhardiman Amby to prosecutors after their case files were declared complete. The suspects are Zulkarnain, the Kuansing regional secretary, and Ardiles, president director of PT MIC. The case involves alleged bribery related to the appointment of regional apparatus positions within the Kuansing regency government.

NTB Provincial Government to Issue Decree on Drought and Fire Emergency Status

The West Nusa Tenggara provincial government is finalising a gubernatorial decree to declare a state of emergency for drought and fires following a surge in hotspots and fire incidents, including a blaze that destroyed 75 traditional houses in Sade Traditional Village. A task force has been established to coordinate post-disaster handling and reconstruction, with funding being prepared from the unexpected expenditure budget of Rp43 billion. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency has warned that fire weather conditions remain extremely high across the region.

Danantara Housing Expo 2026 Offers Homes Starting at Rp 120 Million

The government and BPI Danantara have launched the Danantara Housing Expo 2026 to support the national programme of building three million homes. The expo features over 120,000 property options from more than 130 state-owned and private developers, with prices ranging from Rp 120 million to Rp 3 billion. Financing is offered through Himbara banks with down payments starting at 1% and fixed interest rates from 2.75% per annum.