Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 3 August 2026

Showing 601-650 of 1,519 articles

FAO facilitates Indonesian mango farmers' study of production technology in the Philippines

The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has facilitated a knowledge exchange for Indonesian mango farmers to study pest control and post-harvest processing in the Philippines. The initiative aims to boost the competitiveness of Indonesia's mango industry, which has seen export values decline while imports have risen. Farmers from Majalengka, West Java, visited Guimaras province to learn cost-effective solutions applicable to smallholders in both countries.

First-Half Earnings Season to Catalyse JCI Movement This Week

The release of first-half 2026 corporate earnings reports is expected to be a primary catalyst for the Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) this week. Investors are also closely monitoring domestic economic data and global sentiment, including the Federal Reserve's policy direction and US employment figures. The market is currently in a consolidation phase, with technical analysis suggesting a potential move towards 6,400 if key resistance levels are breached.

BGN Chief Dismisses Heads of Nutrition Service Units Over Suspended Kitchens

The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sudaryono, has dismissed 137 heads of Nutrition Service Fulfilment Units (SPPG) whose kitchens were suspended. The dismissals follow incidents including food poisoning and financial mismanagement, with the agency adopting a zero-tolerance policy on safety. An investigation is underway to determine if the cases involved negligence or other elements before deciding on permanent termination.

Building a Multi-Asset Portfolio: The 6 Best Mutual Fund Apps for 2026

For investors seeking to balance high-risk assets, selecting the right mutual fund application is crucial for practical portfolio rebalancing. Platforms like Pluang, Bibit, and Bareksa offer varying degrees of multi-asset integration, from stocks and crypto to gold, often with low entry points starting at IDR 10,000. The choice of platform can significantly impact an investor's ability to monitor and adjust their portfolio efficiently across different asset classes.

Cuba Plunged into Darkness After Total Power Grid Failure

Cuba experienced a nationwide blackout on Sunday night, leaving its 10 million residents without electricity. The collapse follows three national outages in July and comes amid a tightening US oil blockade that has crippled the island's ability to secure fuel imports. The energy crisis has prompted Havana to take the unprecedented step of allowing foreign-backed fuel imports and private wholesale distribution.

Dewandaru: The 'Sacred' Tree of Gunung Kawi, Now Sought After by Saudi Arabia

The dewandaru tree, long shrouded in Indonesian mysticism and folklore, is gaining international market traction. While local myths associate the tree with luck and disaster omens, export data shows a 69.45% surge in demand in 2025, with buyers emerging from Malaysia, Europe, and notably, Saudi Arabia.

First Trial for Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil in Hajj Quota Corruption Case Set for Tuesday

The inaugural hearing for former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, who is accused of corruption related to the 2023-2024 hajj quota, is scheduled for Tuesday at the Jakarta Corruption Court. Yaqut will be tried alongside three other defendants, including a former special staffer and two travel executives. The case involves an estimated state loss of Rp622 billion, according to a state audit.

Dukcapil Records Indonesian Citizens Named Nobita, Sasuke, and Olivia Rodrigo

Indonesia's civil registry reveals a fascinating trend of parents naming their children after popular culture icons. Data from the first semester of 2026 shows hundreds of citizens bear names from Japanese anime like Naruto and Doraemon, alongside international pop stars. The phenomenon highlights the significant influence of global entertainment on Indonesian society.

Thai PM Arrives at Palace, Receives Warm Welcome from Prabowo

President Prabowo Subianto hosted a state welcome ceremony for Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul at Merdeka Palace in Jakarta. The visit, scheduled for 3-4 August, included a 21-gun salute and the introduction of key Indonesian ministers. The leaders are set to hold bilateral talks aimed at strengthening strategic cooperation between the two nations.

Interpol Issues Red Notice for Sheikh Ahmad Al Misry in Sexual Abuse Case

Interpol has issued a red notice for Sheikh Ahmad Al Misry, an Indonesian citizen, in connection with alleged sexual abuse. The notice, requested by the Indonesian National Police's International Relations Division, was published on 9 July 2026. Al Misry is accused of committing obscene acts and physical sexual abuse against five male students, with reports indicating a pattern of behaviour dating back to 2021.

Supported by Over 200,000 Donors, Indonesia's First Mosque in Western Canada Inaugurated

The Al-Ikhlas Centre, the first mosque initiated by the Indonesian community in Western Canada, has been officially inaugurated in Edmonton. Funded by a collaborative waqf movement involving more than 200,000 donors and raising approximately CAD 1.14 million, the project was spearheaded by the Indonesian Muslim Community in Edmonton and the Cinta Quran Foundation. The centre is set to expand beyond a place of worship into an Islamic Centre, serving as a hub for education, social services, and cross-cultural dialogue.

PM Anutin's First Indonesia Visit: Strategic Partnership Roadmap to be Announced

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul received a state welcome at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta, hosted by President Prabowo Subianto. The visit marks PM Anutin's first to Indonesia, with bilateral talks set to cover security, trade, investment, and food and energy security. The two leaders are expected to announce a Strategic Partnership Roadmap for 2026-2030.

Iran Denies Talks with US, Discusses Strait of Hormuz Only with Oman

Iran has refuted claims of negotiations with the United States, stating it is solely cooperating with Oman to establish a temporary shipping lane in the Strait of Hormuz. Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei emphasised that discussions with Muscat are focused on ensuring safe maritime traffic in the strategic waterway. The denial follows remarks by US President Donald Trump expressing optimism about imminent talks regarding the strait and Iran's denuclearisation programme.

BI Reveals SBN Purchases Reach Rp195.25 T Up to End of July 2026

Bank Indonesia (BI) has purchased Rp195.25 trillion in Government Securities (SBN) as of the end of July 2026, with Rp79.6 trillion acquired on the secondary market. The measure aims to support double-digit money supply growth and maintain banking liquidity. The purchases are part of ongoing coordination between the central bank and the government to ensure financial system stability.

Sunan Candlenut: A Biodiesel Source That Can Outperform Palm Oil with Solar Power

Research into Sunan candlenut (kemiri sunan) as a biodiesel feedstock reveals its carbon footprint can be significantly lower than palm oil's when processing is powered by solar energy. While initial emissions are higher due to electricity consumption during drying and transesterification, switching to solar PV reduces its carbon footprint to 660 kg CO2-equivalent per tonne, surpassing palm oil biodiesel. The plant also offers environmental benefits by growing on degraded land without competing with food crops or causing deforestation.

PU Ministry's Solar-Powered Water Pumps Save 250 Hectares of Rice Fields in Majalengka

The Ministry of Public Works has deployed solar-powered water pumps in Majalengka, West Java, to combat the effects of a prolonged dry season and the El Nino phenomenon. The emergency irrigation measure, operational since late July, is supplying water to approximately 250 hectares of previously drought-stricken rice fields. The initiative is part of a national strategy to safeguard food security and support agricultural productivity amid climate challenges.

BGN Chief Elevates Free Nutritious Meal Poisoning Status to Fatal Incident

The Head of Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has reclassified the recent food poisoning case linked to the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme as a 'fatal incident', citing the risk to life and health. Sudaryono warned that any future poisoning cases will result in the immediate suspension of the responsible kitchen unit and the dismissal of its head. The agency is enforcing a zero-tolerance policy and aims to increase transparency, including plans to provide public access to CCTV footage from meal preparation facilities.

Foreign Exchange Reserves Drop by US$11 Billion by End of July, BI Speaks Out

Bank Indonesia's Acting Governor Destry Damayanti confirmed that the country's foreign exchange reserves fell to US$145 billion by the end of July 2026, a decline of US$11 billion from the end of 2025. The drop was attributed to stabilisation measures for the rupiah and government external debt payments. Despite the decline, the central bank assured that the current reserve level remains safe, covering 5.4 months of imports, well above the international adequacy standard of three months.

Interpol Issues Red Notice for Sheikh Ahmad Al Misry Over Sexual Abuse Case

Interpol has issued a red notice for Sheikh Ahmad Al Misry, an Indonesian national wanted in connection with the alleged sexual abuse of his students. The notice was published by Interpol's headquarters in Lyon, France, on 9 July 2026. Indonesian police confirmed the suspect is still believed to be in Egypt and efforts to apprehend him are ongoing.

MPR Invites Prabowo to Attend Constitution Day and MPR Anniversary Commemoration

The People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) leadership has invited President Prabowo Subianto to attend a joint commemoration of Constitution Day and the MPR's anniversary on 29 August 2026. The invitation was extended during a meeting at the Presidential Palace, which also served as a national silaturahmi and consultation between state institutions. The President has also been invited to deliver the annual report on state institutions' performance at the MPR Annual Session on 14 August 2026.

Industrial Areas Become the Main Driver of Investment in Indonesia

Indonesia's 129 industrial zones, hosting over 10,000 manufacturing companies and employing 4.5 million workers, are now the primary engine for foreign investment and job creation. The government is focusing on infrastructure integration, digital transformation, and green energy to maintain competitiveness and support an eight percent economic growth target. Policy acceleration is also underway to address investment barriers and ensure sustainable development.

MPR Leadership Presents State Policy Guidelines Concept to President Prabowo

The People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) leadership met with President Prabowo Subianto at the Presidential Palace to submit the concept for the State Policy Guidelines (PPHN). President Prabowo welcomed the initiative, emphasising that the PPHN should serve as a long-term policy direction for future administrations, not just the current one. He also expressed concern over the high cost of regional elections and the prevalence of corruption among regional heads.

Oil Prices Fall as US Signals Readiness to Resume Dialogue with Iran

Oil prices dropped more than 5 per cent on Monday after US President Donald Trump indicated peace talks with Iran would continue and that a planned military strike had been called off. The easing of geopolitical tensions, combined with OPEC+ members agreeing to a limited production increase, added downward pressure on crude prices. Brent crude fell to around $83.40 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate dropped 6 per cent to $79.60.

Video: How Biofertilisers Help Farmers Boost Rice and Corn Production

The use of biofertilisers is being promoted to help Indonesian farmers increase food production and achieve national self-sufficiency. PT Pramudita Darya Parma's CEO highlights that organic fertilisers can restore soil fertility degraded by chemical use, while gradually reducing chemical fertiliser dependency by 10 per cent. Biofertilisers containing microorganisms also improve soil structure and protect crops from pests.

Australia Confirms First Mass Wildlife Deaths from H5 Bird Flu

Australia has recorded its first mass die-off of wild birds due to the highly pathogenic H5 avian influenza at Baudin Rocks, South Australia. Government ministers have warned that further significant losses among native wildlife are inevitable as the virus spreads. Authorities have activated a national management plan and committed additional funding, while stressing the risk to poultry farms and human health remains low.

Ahead of KNPB Action Plan, Papuan Leader Urges Public to Maintain Security and Order

A prominent Papuan leader has called for calm and unity ahead of planned demonstrations by the West Papua National Committee (KNPB) in early August 2026. Yanto Eluay, head of the P5 Papua presidium, warned that disruptive actions could harm the livelihoods of small traders and daily workers. He urged the public to use the coinciding anniversaries of the Act of Free Choice (Pepera) and Indonesia's Independence Day to strengthen peace within the nation.

Education Ministry: Interactive Flat Panels Support Learning for Students with Special Needs

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has highlighted the positive impact of Interactive Flat Panels (IFPs) on the learning experience of students with special needs. Minister Abdul Mu'ti reaffirmed the government's commitment to inclusive education and improving services in special needs schools (SLB). The technology facilitates more interactive and meaningful lessons, although challenges remain in adapting to varying student abilities.

August Reflection: A Bleak Portrait That Has Yet to Fade

A writer revisits poems penned 23 years ago, finding that the social ills they depicted—child labour, corruption, and public apathy—persist in Indonesia today. The article reflects on the nation's unfulfilled promises of independence, questioning the meaning of 'Merdeka' for those still trapped in poverty and injustice.

Home Affairs Minister: Dukcapil Data is the Foundation of E-Government

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has emphasised that population data managed by the Directorate General of Dukcapil is the primary foundation for developing Indonesia's electronic government system. The database, which covers nearly 99 per cent of the population with biometric identifiers, is updated in real time and serves as the basis for the One Data Indonesia initiative. The government is strengthening digital infrastructure and security to ensure integrated public services across various sectors.

Four Large Motorcycles Seized by KPK in Bribery Case Involving Pemalang Regent

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized four large motorcycles during searches related to an alleged extortion case involving the inactive Regent of Pemalang, Anom Widiyantoro. The motorcycles belong to one of the suspects, Mohamad Haris, a private party and confidant of the regent. The case involves two clusters of alleged corruption, including extortion by the regent against his subordinates and alleged extortion by a KPK officer against the regent.

Experts Urge Governance Overhaul at Perumda Tirta Bhagasisi Amid Service Quality Concerns

Public complaints over erratic and murky water supply have intensified scrutiny on Perumda Tirta Bhagasasi, the regional water company in Bekasi Regency. A researcher has highlighted severe financial decline, with profits dropping over 96% in four years, and pointed to rampant illegal connections, fictitious accounts, and water loss exceeding 50% as root causes. The situation has been likened to a 'severe stroke', requiring comprehensive reform rather than temporary policy changes.

Thai PM Anutin Arrives in Jakarta for Official Visit, Strengthening Bilateral Ties

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul arrived in Jakarta on Monday and was welcomed with a state ceremony at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Force Base. He is scheduled to meet with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at the Merdeka Palace. The visit aims to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two nations.

Jakarta's export value reaches 8.5 million US dollars in January-June 2026

Jakarta's exports reached 8,587.78 million US dollars in the first half of 2026, a 4.04 percent increase compared to the same period last year. The growth was primarily driven by a rise in non-oil and gas exports, particularly from the processing industry sector. The top three export destinations were Thailand, the United States, and China, accounting for over a third of the total value.

Thailand Rejects UN Special Rapporteur's Statement on Human Rights in Cambodia

Thailand has formally rejected a statement by a UN special rapporteur regarding the human rights situation in Cambodia, denying it initiated the armed conflict. Bangkok claims the conflict resulted from indiscriminate attacks by Cambodia and that many displaced individuals are Cambodian nationals who had been residing temporarily in Thailand. The Thai government insists the right of return must not be exploited for political purposes.

Meutya Hafid Denies Censoring News on Demonstrations

Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Meutya Hafid has refuted claims that the government is restricting media coverage of public demonstrations. She emphasised that the ministry supports accurate and swift reporting to combat disinformation, particularly ahead of Indonesia's Independence Day. The Indonesian Broadcasting Commission (KPI) also clarified that multiple national television stations covered recent student protests, dismissing allegations of media co-optation as baseless.

Tito: Dukcapil Data Integration Strengthens Targeted Social Protection

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian announced that integrating civil registry data (Dukcapil) with other government databases has improved the accuracy of social assistance targeting. A pilot project in Banyuwangi Regency showed that cross-referencing data with vehicle and land ownership records helps filter out ineligible recipients. The government aims to replicate this e-government system in 143 districts and cities this August to ensure aid reaches those truly in need.

Woman in Ciamis Arrested for Spreading Hoax About Protest Ahead of 81st Independence Day

A 45-year-old woman in Ciamis, West Java, has been arrested by the Jakarta Police's cybercrime unit for allegedly spreading false information on TikTok calling for a demonstration to oust the president and vice president. The arrest was made ahead of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations as part of heightened cyber patrols to prevent public unrest. Authorities are investigating the suspect's motives and potential accomplices while urging the public not to share unverified information.

Police Arrest 45-Year-Old Woman in Ciamis, West Java, for Allegedly Spreading Hoax Calls for Protest Ahead of Independence Day

The Jakarta Metro Police's Cyber Crime Directorate has arrested a 45-year-old woman in Ciamis, West Java, for allegedly spreading false information on social media. The suspect, identified by the initials DM, is accused of using a TikTok account to incite a demonstration ahead of the 17 August Independence Day celebrations. Authorities have seized a mobile phone as evidence and are continuing to investigate the motive behind the hoax.

BTN Partners with Visa to Boost Debit Card Transactions

State-owned Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) has partnered with Visa to launch the 'Spend More Win More' programme, aiming to increase debit card transaction frequency and volume among its premium customers. The initiative was announced alongside BTN's continued support for Indonesia Fashion Week 2026, signalling the bank's strategic expansion beyond its traditional mortgage business into the creative economy. The programme targets BTN Prospera, Prioritas, and Private segment clients as part of a broader transformation to diversify its services.

AdaKami Wins Award as Top Company in Transparent & Responsible P2P Lending in Indonesia

Indonesian fintech firm PT Pembiayaan Digital Indonesia (AdaKami) has been recognised for its commitment to responsible digital lending at the Indonesia Top Companies Recognition 2026 event. The company received the 'Top Company in Transparent & Responsible P2P Lending' award from Bloomberg Technoz and Indonesia Data. AdaKami, which is licensed and supervised by the Financial Services Authority (OJK), emphasised its focus on good corporate governance, risk management, and consumer protection.

Presidential Regulation 27/2026: A Legal Stopgap, Not a Solution for Online Drivers

An analysis of Presidential Regulation No. 27/2026 argues that while it introduces protections like a maximum 8% platform fee and mandatory social security for online drivers, it fails to resolve their fundamental legal status. By maintaining the 'partnership' model, the regulation leaves drivers vulnerable, as it does not address the algorithmic control that resembles an employment relationship. The article concludes that a formal law is necessary to provide permanent legal certainty for Indonesia's gig economy workers.

Nutrition expert says traditional foods align with nutritional principles

A Herbalife executive has highlighted that traditional cuisines worldwide inherently follow the nutritional principles used by elite athletes, focusing on balanced macronutrients and whole foods. Dr Luigi Gratton noted that many ancestral dishes naturally provide the right mix of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats needed for energy and recovery. He emphasised that adopting sports nutrition principles does not require abandoning cultural food heritage.

DPR Highlights Statute of Limitations as Key Issue in Asset Forfeiture Bill

A member of the Indonesian House of Representatives has stressed that the country does not lack legal mechanisms for asset forfeiture, but requires clarity on the statute of limitations for prosecution. The legislator argued that the upcoming Asset Forfeiture Bill must focus on strengthening legal certainty, protecting bona fide third parties, and ensuring law enforcement accountability. The discussion highlighted existing Supreme Court regulations while calling for specific provisions to prevent abuse of power and interpretation disputes.

The Coffee Trail from Mount Wangun, West Java: Still a Hidden Gem

CNBC Indonesia explores the little-known coffee cultivation on Mount Wangun in Bogor Regency, West Java, which has quietly become a significant producer of robusta beans. The region's altitude and dedicated farmers contribute to a unique local variety that remains largely undiscovered by the wider public, despite Bogor's position as a top robusta producer.

Home Minister: Dukcapil Data Integration Strengthens Targeted Social Assistance

Home Minister Tito Karnavian has highlighted the success of a social protection pilot project in Banyuwangi, which uses integrated Dukcapil data to improve the accuracy of aid distribution. The initiative cross-references population data with land ownership, vehicle registration, and national socio-economic surveys to filter out ineligible recipients. The government aims to replicate this e-government system in 143 districts and cities by August to ensure social assistance reaches those genuinely in need.

Alibaba unveils its largest AI model yet, DeepSeek's latest model is ultra-low cost

Chinese tech firms Alibaba and DeepSeek have released new artificial intelligence models, intensifying competition in the global AI market. Alibaba's Qwen3.8-Max, with 2.4 trillion parameters, has quickly risen to the top of performance leaderboards, while DeepSeek's V4-Flash offers dramatically lower operational costs than rivals like Anthropic's Claude. The developments underscore China's strategic push for accessible, open-weight AI systems to attract developers worldwide.

Rupiah strengthens as Indonesia's manufacturing PMI rises to 50.2

The Indonesian rupiah gained 0.14 percent against the US dollar, closing at Rp17,997, buoyed by a rebound in the country's manufacturing sector. The S&P Global Indonesia Manufacturing PMI rose to 50.2 in July 2026, signalling an expansion in operating conditions for the first time in four months. The improvement was driven by renewed production growth and recovering demand, though rising raw material costs continue to pose a challenge.

Survivors of KM Mutiara Sentosa Fire Suffer Muscle Injuries and Vertigo After Hours-Long Swim

Eleven survivors of the KM Mutiara Sentosa ferry fire are being treated at a Surabaya hospital for muscle injuries, exhaustion, and vertigo. The patients reported swimming for up to three hours across a two-kilometre stretch of sea to reach rescue vessels after being forced to jump from the burning ship. Medical staff noted that most injuries were caused by the impact of jumping from a height and prolonged exposure to the sea.

Deputy Governor of NTT Visits Undana Student Hospitalised After 12 Research Seminar Rejections

The Deputy Governor of East Nusa Tenggara, Johni Asadoma, visited a Nusa Cendana University student who was hospitalised following alleged psychological distress caused by her research seminar being rejected 12 times. The student's condition is reportedly improving, while the university rector has guaranteed her academic rights and launched an internal investigation into the supervision process.

MPR Leadership Submits State Policy Guidelines Concept to Prabowo

The leadership of Indonesia's People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) has formally submitted a draft concept for the Broad Outlines of State Policy (PPHN) to President Prabowo Subianto. The document is intended to serve as a long-term development guide for successive governments, rather than just the current administration. The meeting also covered invitations for the President to attend the MPR's annual session and Constitution Day commemoration.