Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 3 August 2026

Showing 751-800 of 1,519 articles

Korlantas and Jasa Marga Devise Scheme for Christmas and New Year, Zero ODOL

The Indonesian National Police Traffic Corps (Korlantas) and state-owned toll road operator Jasa Marga are coordinating to manage traffic during the upcoming Christmas and New Year holidays. Their discussions also focused on the planned implementation of the Zero Over Dimension Over Loading (ODOL) policy, set to begin early next year. The collaboration includes integrating operational technology and data systems to improve safety and enforcement on toll roads.

DPR Member: TNI Performance Allowance Increase Must Impact Work Quality

A member of the Indonesian House of Representatives has stated that the recently announced increase in performance allowances for TNI personnel must translate into improved professionalism and discipline. The legislator welcomed President Prabowo Subianto's decision, viewing it as a long-overdue investment in welfare that should enhance national defence. He also cautioned that the pay rise must be accompanied by greater integrity and adherence to the law to maintain public trust.

Foreign Capital Inflows Surge to US$8.5 Billion in Q2, Says Bank Indonesia

Bank Indonesia's Acting Governor Destry Damayanti reported that foreign capital inflows reached US$8.5 billion in the second quarter of 2026, primarily directed into government bonds and central bank securities. The influx has contributed to a strengthening of the rupiah, which recovered to Rp 17,994 per US dollar by the end of July after earlier depreciation.

KPK Supervisory Board Receives 762 Wiretapping Reports and 6 SP3s in First Half of 2026

The Supervisory Board of Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) reported receiving 2,093 notifications during the first semester of 2026, including 762 wiretapping reports. The board noted that 80 search notifications, 200 seizure notifications, and two out of six investigation termination warrants (SP3) were submitted late. Additionally, the board received 14 ethical violation complaints against KPK employees, with two cases already resulting in sanctions.

Minister: Farmers' Terms of Trade hit 127.84 in July 2026, signalling stronger welfare

Indonesia's Farmers' Terms of Trade (NTP) rose to 127.84 in July 2026, a 0.15 per cent increase from the previous month, reflecting improved purchasing power for farmers. Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman attributed the gain to effective government programmes boosting productivity, cost efficiency, and price stability. The rise was supported by stronger performance in food crops and smallholder plantation sub-sectors, particularly driven by higher prices for rice, cocoa, and palm oil.

Asset Forfeiture Bill Vulnerable to Becoming a Political Tool of Power

Senior advocate Juniver Girsang has warned that the Draft Law on Asset Forfeiture must not be weaponised to suppress political opponents. He urged the House of Representatives to ensure the regulation is precisely formulated to prevent abuse of authority. Girsang also recommended establishing an independent committee to manage seized assets, separate from investigating bodies.

Indonesia Slashes Tuna Export Tariff to Japan to 0%, Ministry Strengthens Upstream Governance

Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries is reinforcing upstream tuna management following the implementation of a 0% preferential tariff for processed tuna and skipjack exports to Japan under the IJEPA. The policy, effective 1 August 2026, is expected to significantly boost the competitiveness of Indonesian fishery products. The ministry is focusing on quality control, sustainable fishing practices, and supply chain traceability to meet Japanese market standards.

Hoegeng Awards 2026 Held with Fanfare, Chairul Tanjung and National Police Chief Offer Appreciation

The Hoegeng Awards 2026 ceremony celebrated exemplary police officers, drawing praise from prominent figures including CT Corp Founder Chairul Tanjung and National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo. The event highlighted the discovery of dedicated officers from remote regions, with over 9,000 public nominations received. Winners were announced across five categories, including dedicated, innovative, and high-integrity policing.

BNPB Coordinates Forest and Land Fire Suppression in East Belitung and West Bangka

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) is coordinating the response to forest and land fires that have scorched a total of eight hectares across two regencies in the Bangka Belitung Islands Province. The fires occurred simultaneously on Sunday in East Belitung and West Bangka, with no casualties reported. Rapid response teams successfully contained the blazes and are conducting cooling operations to prevent reignition.

KNKT Investigation Team Probes KM Mutiara Sentosa II Fire

The National Transportation Safety Committee (KNKT) has deployed an investigation team to the site of the KM Mutiara Sentosa II ferry fire in Sumenep, East Java. Officials have confirmed the vessel was deemed seaworthy prior to the incident, which resulted in five fatalities and the evacuation of 231 people. The government has pledged a thorough probe, while systemic transport safety failures have drawn sharp criticism from lawmakers and transport experts.

Transmigration Ministry deploys Patriot Expedition Team for research in Manokwari

The Ministry of Transmigration has dispatched 20 members of the Patriot Expedition Team from Airlangga University to conduct research and provide assistance in transmigration areas of Manokwari Regency, West Papua. The four-month programme aims to support science-based development of transmigration zones to foster new, sustainable economic centres. The initiative will focus on mapping regional potential and formulating policy recommendations for future development programmes.

Dedi Mulyadi targets Cihampelas Terrace renovation to be completed by October 2026

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has announced that the provincial government aims to complete the demolition and redevelopment of the iconic Teras Cihampelas area by October 2026. The project follows the official transfer of management from Bandung City to the provincial government. The governor also indicated the revamped area will be integrated with the reactivation of flights at Husein Sastranegara Airport to attract international tourists.

RI secures US$104,000 Chile export potential through business matching

Indonesia has secured US$104,000 in potential export deals with Chile through business matching facilitated by the Trade Ministry. The initiative, led by the Indonesia Trade Promotion Centre in Santiago, connected Indonesian exporters with Chilean buyers, focusing on palm oil, coffee, and adult diapers. The government continues to push for export diversification to non-traditional markets, building on growing bilateral trade which reached US$226.2 million in the first five months of 2026.

Jakarta records 0.15 percent deflation in July 2026

Jakarta experienced a monthly deflation of 0.15 percent in July 2026, primarily driven by falling food and beverage prices. The decline was also influenced by a continued drop in global gold prices, which pushed down the cost of gold jewellery for the fourth consecutive month. Nationally, Indonesia recorded a monthly deflation of 0.14 percent over the same period.

Global Coffee Prices Surge: Indonesia and Nine Other Nations Poised for Windfall Profits

Global coffee prices have climbed sharply, with Arabica trading near its highest level since January 2026 due to persistent supply tightness and weather threats. Indonesia, as the world's fourth-largest coffee producer, stands to benefit from increased export revenues despite a slight dip in shipment volumes. The price rally is primarily driven by supply-side disruptions in Brazil and declining certified stocks, rather than a surge in demand.

Minister of Transportation: Investigation Launched into KM Mutiara Sentosa Fire

Minister of Transportation Dudy Purwagandhi has confirmed that an investigation will be conducted into the cause of the fire aboard KMP Mutiara Sentosa II off the coast of Sumenep, East Java. The minister visited the evacuation site to ensure all passengers and crew were accounted for and received proper care. A coordinated response involving Basarnas, the military, police, and local vessels successfully evacuated those on board.

Dukcapil Surpasses 2025 Performance Targets, Population Data Services Continue to Integrate

The Directorate General of Dukcapil at the Ministry of Home Affairs has exceeded its 2025 performance targets, with active users of population data reaching 2,283 institutions and total access hitting 2.57 billion hits. Digital transformation efforts also saw significant progress, including 17.56 million Digital Population Identity activations and near-complete data matching with the National Socio-Economic Single Data system. The agency has simultaneously strengthened its IT infrastructure and information security, achieving ISO 27001:2022 certification for all regional offices.

West Java Experiences 0.05% Deflation in July 2026, BPS Reports

West Java recorded a month-to-month deflation of 0.05% in July 2026, driven by falling prices of horticultural commodities and a drop in demand for chicken meat and eggs. The provincial statistics office also noted a slight increase in the Farmer's Exchange Rate, a surge in foreign tourist arrivals via Kertajati Airport, and a rise in hotel occupancy rates despite a decline in domestic travel.

Polda Metro Jaya Arrests Woman for Spreading Hoax Protest Call Ahead of Independence Day

Jakarta police have arrested a 45-year-old woman in West Java for allegedly disseminating false information on TikTok calling for a demonstration to oust the President and Vice President. The arrest followed a cyber patrol operation, and the suspect admitted ownership of the account. Authorities are continuing to investigate her motives and potential accomplices, warning the public against sharing unverified information.

BRIN Partners with UGM to Develop Healthy Garlic Seed Technology

Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) and Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) are collaborating to develop virus-free garlic seed technology. The research aims to create effective and affordable virus elimination methods to maintain the quality of planting material. The initiative is part of a broader strategic programme to support garlic self-sufficiency areas.

RT Head Says Viral 'Stowaway' Child in Ride-Hailing Taxi Not a First-Time Incident

A young boy who went viral for hiding in the boot of a ride-hailing taxi in Bojonggede, Bogor Regency, has been returned home by police. The local neighbourhood unit head revealed the child has a history of similar behaviour, including being taken as far as Sentul after sneaking into a vehicle. The child, who lives with his grandmother, was safely handed over after the incident startled both the driver and passenger.

JCI Closes Weaker at 6,226, Bank Central Asia Shares Remain Transaction Mainstay

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) ended the day slightly lower at 6,226.031, a decline of 0.16 per cent, despite opening in positive territory. Trading activity remained robust with a total transaction value of Rp7.686 trillion, led by shares of PT Bank Central Asia Tbk (BBCA). The index's movement reflected selective buying and selling by market participants amid fluctuating conditions.

Mutiara Sentosa Ferry Still Afloat and Smouldering After Fire, SAR Focuses on Sea Search

Search and rescue teams have confirmed the fire aboard the KMP Mutiara Sentosa 2 is extinguished, but the vessel remains afloat with smoke still billowing from its hull in waters north of Madura. The ongoing SAR operation is prioritising surface searches around the site, as conditions are not yet deemed safe for entering the wreckage. Evacuation of passengers is largely complete, with only one remaining vessel collecting survivors from a nearby tugboat.

Hoegeng Awards 2026: National Police Chief Urges Officers to Uphold Integrity

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo attended the 2026 Hoegeng Awards, urging all police personnel to maintain integrity in public service. The event, supported by CT Corp and BNI, saw five exemplary officers honoured from 9,000 public nominations. Sigit noted that the awards have contributed to a yearly increase in public trust in the Indonesian National Police.

Firebreak Tactics Extinguish Forest and Land Fires in Pinrang, BNPB Urges Emergency Alert

A forest and land fire scorched at least five hectares of rocky hills in Pinrang Regency, South Sulawesi, prompting a rapid joint response using firebreak methods. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has warned that the incident signals a serious threat as the peak dry season arrives, compounded by the El Niño phenomenon. All regional governments have been instructed to raise their emergency alert status to prevent further widespread disasters.

Safeguarding KPK Independence in Corruption Eradication

Despite government austerity measures, corruption at the regional level persists, with the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) conducting 18 sting operations in 2026 that ensnared 12 regional heads. The recent arrest of Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro has drawn particular scrutiny because an internal KPK administrative staff member was also named a suspect for alleged extortion. This case underscores the critical need for the anti-graft body to maintain robust internal oversight to preserve its institutional integrity and public trust.

Shipments to Thailand Surge 186 Percent Amid Weak Bali Export Performance

Bali's exports to Thailand soared by 186.69 percent in the first half of 2026, marking the highest growth among all destinations, even as the province's overall export value declined slightly. The surge was primarily driven by increased shipments of precious metals, jewellery, and gems. Despite a 0.88 percent dip in total exports, Bali maintained a healthy trade surplus of US$207.24 million.

Emergency Alert: BPBD Supplies Clean Water to 27,021 Residents Across 15 Districts in Tasikmalaya

The Tasikmalaya Regency Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) is distributing clean water to nearly 6,000 households as a prolonged El Niño-induced dry season depletes wells across the region. The emergency operation, set to run until September, involves the military, police, and local water utilities. Officials have urged residents to conserve water as the crisis is expected to worsen with the extended dry spell.

Guarding the Sluice Gates of the Indonesian Economy

Bank Indonesia's decision to hold the benchmark interest rate at 5.75 percent is likened to carefully managing a dam's sluice gates, balancing the need for credit growth against the risks of currency instability. While credit expansion, particularly in investment loans, signals robust business confidence, the central bank stresses that the quality of distribution to productive sectors like MSMEs is crucial for inclusive growth. Maintaining monetary stability is framed not just as an inflation target, but as a direct measure to protect public purchasing power amid global economic uncertainty.

After Market Entry, What Comes Next?

The 2026 Land-Sea Economic Forum in Kuala Lumpur brought together Chinese and Malaysian leaders to discuss deepening economic integration through AI, the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, and cross-border investment. Key themes included the need for Chinese firms to move beyond market entry towards localised production, supply chain partnerships, and technology transfer to achieve long-term growth in ASEAN. The forum also saw the launch of a new Bridging News station and a joint report on collaborative expansion strategies between Chongqing and Malaysia.

Merah Putih Village Cooperatives to Distribute Rice Aid Starting Independence Day

Indonesia's National Food Agency (Bapanas) has announced that Merah Putih Village Cooperatives (KDKMP) will serve as distribution points for the second phase of rice food aid, commencing on 17 August 2026. The initiative aims to leverage existing cooperative infrastructure to bring services closer to 33.2 million beneficiary families. The distribution is intentionally timed to coincide with the 81st Independence Day celebrations, symbolising the government's direct presence through its social protection programme.

Prabowo Receives Report from Bahlil on Energy Security Programme

President Prabowo Subianto held a brief meeting with Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia to discuss routine energy and electricity matters. The President also received MPR leaders to discuss the upcoming Annual Session and is scheduled to host Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul for his first official visit later in the day.

BPJS Kesehatan Premiums for Kopdes Merah Putih Managers to Be Deducted from Salaries, Not Covered by State Budget

The national health insurer BPJS Kesehatan has clarified that premiums for managers of the Kopdes Merah Putih village cooperatives will likely be deducted from their salaries under the wage-earning worker segment. This comes after the Cooperatives Minister stated that the managers' initial salaries would be funded by the state budget for the first two years. The payment mechanism is set to be regulated in a forthcoming presidential regulation on the cooperatives' governance.

Iranian Foreign Minister says Hormuz Strait talks with Oman entering final stage

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has stated that negotiations with Oman concerning the Strait of Hormuz are in their final stages. A foreign ministry spokesman clarified that the potential agreement focuses on establishing a new traffic separation scheme to guarantee the sovereign rights and national security interests of both nations. The talks have intensified following recent military exchanges between Iran and the United States in the region.

Deputy Minister urges Riau and Kepri universities to form consortium

Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Fauzan has called on universities in Riau and the Riau Islands to establish a consortium to tackle regional development challenges. He highlighted significant economic potential alongside stark disparities, such as high poverty rates in certain areas and a sharp rise in stunting prevalence in Riau. The consortium model, successfully piloted in East Nusa Tenggara, would pool academic expertise to align research and community service with local government needs.

July 2026 Inflation Rises, BPS Says Impact of Free Nutritious Meals Programme Requires Further Study

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) reported an increase in inflation for July 2026, driven partly by rising food prices. The agency stated that the specific impact of the newly resumed Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme on food inflation cannot yet be concluded and requires a dedicated study. Key commodities contributing to the monthly inflation included rice, garlic, and cucumber.

Amsakar Affirms Transmigration as a Driver of Equitable Development

Batam Mayor Amsakar Achmad has highlighted the strategic role of the transmigration programme in reducing regional disparities and promoting equitable development across Indonesia. Speaking at the launch of the 2026 Patriot Expedition Team, he shared Batam's experience in relocating communities affected by investment projects, citing the synergy between local and central government as key. He also outlined how integrated planning between the city administration and the Batam Authority prevents bureaucratic overlap and strengthens investment services.

Environment Ministry to back circular economy in free meal program

Indonesia's Environment Ministry is integrating circular economy principles into the national free meal programme, guiding nutrition service units to reuse food waste and cooking oil. Deputy Minister Diaz Hendropriyono highlighted pilot projects in Gorontalo and Labuan Bajo that are already repurposing waste for animal feed and community benefit. The initiative is framed as an urgent response to climate threats, with officials warning that thousands of Indonesian islands could be submerged without widespread adoption of circular practices.

PLN's Sabira Island Conservation Programme Wins National Award

State electricity firm PLN has received the 'Platinum Alignment' award at the Indonesia Green Awards 2026 for its integrated conservation programme on Sabira Island. The initiative, running since 2022, combines mangrove and coral reef restoration with economic empowerment for local fishermen and digital access for the community. The programme has successfully reduced fishermen's fuel consumption by 66 per cent and fostered a self-sustaining model of environmental stewardship among local youth.

6 Steps to Take When Your Phone Is Lost to Keep Your Bank Account Safe

Losing a smartphone poses a significant risk to personal data and financial accounts. The Directorate General of Dukcapil advises the public to prioritise securing digital access over finding the physical device. A six-step guide has been issued, starting with blocking the SIM card and financial services, to prevent misuse of mobile banking and digital wallets.

US and Israel Suddenly Align with Russia and Iran to Oppose UN Climate Resolution

The United States and Israel unexpectedly joined Russia and Iran in voting against a United Nations General Assembly resolution urging stronger global climate action. The non-binding resolution, which passed with 141 votes in favour, supports an International Court of Justice opinion that negligence on climate commitments is unlawful. The opposing nations, all significant fossil fuel producers or emitters, resisted mechanisms that could compel them to pay reparations to countries harmed by climate change.

Pakuwon Mall Jogja Halts Fence Construction After Going Viral on Social Media

Pakuwon Mall Jogja has suspended the installation of perimeter fencing after the project sparked public unease and went viral on social media. Management clarified the green iron fence was planned and budgeted since last year for aesthetic purposes, not security concerns, and was delayed until the dry season for painting. The mall decided to halt work to avoid further public agitation, stating the construction complies with regulations and is within the building's boundary line.

Abandoned Dust-Covered Car Removed by Authorities in Tebet After Week-Long Complaint

The South Jakarta Transportation Agency has removed a dust-covered sedan that had been abandoned for a week on a roadside near Pasar Tebet Barat. Acting on repeated public complaints, officers coordinated with local community leaders before towing the vehicle to clear the traffic obstruction. The reason the owner left the car remains unknown.

Skull of Missing Grandfather in East Manggarai Identified by Rosary Necklace

The skeletal remains of a 71-year-old man missing for three months were discovered in a riverbed in East Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara. Family members identified the remains as Donatus Tahuk primarily through a distinctive rosary necklace he was known to wear. Police stated that while medical examination could not confirm the identity without DNA testing, the family's recognition of the rosary and physical characteristics of the skeleton provided strong certainty.

Grandmother Robbed by Neighbour in East Jakarta; Suspect Faces 9 Years in Prison

A man in Cakung, East Jakarta, has been arrested and named a suspect for robbing his 61-year-old neighbour, Hartati. The suspect, Marhum, allegedly bound the victim with duct tape and stole her jewellery while she was preparing for prayers. Police have charged him with violent theft, which carries a maximum sentence of nine years.

Indonesia's Government Bond Yields Rise Amid Geopolitical Conflict, Purbaya Speaks Out

Indonesia's Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has addressed the recent increase in government bond yields, attributing the rise to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The benchmark 10-year yield climbed to 7.29% by late July 2026, driven by global inflation fears and a risk-off sentiment among international investors. Despite this, domestic investors have been actively purchasing government securities, providing a buffer against capital outflows.

NIK and Digital ID Become Foundation of Government Digital Transformation

Indonesia's Ministry of Home Affairs has declared that the National Identity Number (NIK) and Digital Population Identity (IKD) are now the primary foundation of the country's Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). The announcement was made during the National Coordination Meeting of the Population and Civil Registration Agency, which focused on synchronising central and regional government efforts. The initiative aims to strengthen digital governance, enhance inter-sectoral public services, and ensure more integrated and targeted service delivery across the nation.

Singapore Retrenchments Hit Record High, Approaching Pandemic Levels

The number of retrenchments in Singapore surged to a more than five-year high in the second quarter of 2026, driven by business restructuring in export-oriented sectors. Despite the rise in layoffs, the overall labour market remained stable, with total employment continuing to grow and unemployment rates holding steady.

Purbaya and Team Bring New Warning: Global Money Market Volatility Rises

Indonesia's Financial System Stability Committee (KSSK) has warned that global financial market volatility will remain elevated through the second quarter of 2026. The trend is marked by a strong flight to safe-haven assets, strengthening the US dollar and pressuring emerging market capital flows. Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East are cited as a key factor disrupting energy supplies and supply chains, fuelling inflation and higher interest rates.

Illegal Dump Site Where Firefighter Died to Face Fines for Waste Offenders

The Jakarta provincial government will impose fines on individuals caught dumping waste at an illegal site in Kramat Jati, East Jakarta, following a fire that claimed the life of a firefighter. The blaze, which took hours to contain, resulted in the death of a senior fire officer. Authorities have now installed warning banners and are threatening sanctions to prevent further illegal dumping.