Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 3 August 2026

Showing 1,101-1,150 of 1,519 articles

Bekasi Regent Ade Kuswara Faces Seven-Year Sentence, Father Four Years, in Graft Case

Prosecutors have demanded a seven-year prison sentence for suspended Bekasi Regent Ade Kuswara and a four-year term for his father, HM Kunang, over a project bribery scheme. The pair were also ordered to pay substantial replacement fines, with the court citing the damage to public trust and obstruction of anti-corruption efforts as aggravating factors.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Supports Hoegeng Awards: 'Hoegeng's Torch Must Keep Burning'

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Akhmad Wiyagus has voiced strong support for the Hoegeng Awards, emphasising the importance of upholding the exemplary values of the late police general Hoegeng Iman Santoso. He stated that recognising officers of integrity is crucial for maintaining public trust in the police force. The 2026 awards honoured five officers across categories including dedication, innovation, and integrity.

Red White Coops and free meal program create circular economy: Minister

Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan stated that the Red and White Village Cooperatives (KDMP) and the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme are creating a closed-loop economic ecosystem by connecting local farmers and fish farmers directly to school meal supply chains. The model, already piloted in Blora, Central Java, provides stable market access and predictable demand for producers while ensuring children receive high-quality protein. The government aims to expand this integration to strengthen village economies, boost national aquaculture production, and enhance food security.

Indian Fortune Teller Visits Ibu Tien, His Prediction About Soeharto Proven True

A newly resurfaced account from a 1992 biography reveals that Siti Hartinah, wife of former President Soeharto, was visited by an Indian gemstone seller in 1965 who claimed her husband would one day stand equal to President Soekarno. Despite dismissing the prediction as idle superstition at the time, the prophecy was seen as fulfilled when Soeharto assumed the presidency in 1968 following the political upheaval of the 30 September Movement.

Interactive Booths and MotoGP Simulator Enliven GIIAS 2026

The Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2026 is offering visitors an interactive experience, with a MotoGP simulator featuring the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit proving to be a major attraction. The booth, run by Pertamina Patra Niaga, aims to introduce company services through engaging activities and games. Visitors who complete a series of challenges can win various merchandise items.

Hirdaya Sharma and Jaktive Promote Bhajan as a Cultural Bridge Between Indonesia, Nepal, and Australia

Melbourne-based cultural activist Hirdaya Sharma is promoting the Hindu devotional music form Bhajan as a means to connect youth and strengthen cultural ties between Indonesia, Nepal, and Australia. Sharma advocates for modernising Bhajan with contemporary arrangements and multilingual subtitles to broaden its appeal without losing its spiritual essence. He envisions future collaborations with Jaktive to organise events involving musicians and young talent from all three nations.

Indonesia seeks global funds with international finance hub

Indonesia is racing to establish a new international financial hub, driven by a limited window of opportunity to attract global capital shifting due to geopolitical instability. The initiative, mandated by the P2SK Law, aims to transform the country from a capital seeker into a regional financial centre by offering internationally competitive legal frameworks and dispute resolution. Economists stress that consistent regulation and transparency will be crucial for the hub's success in drawing long-term investment for strategic projects.

Bandung City Government to Regulate Padel Court Operating Hours Following Noise Complaints

The Bandung city administration is drafting stricter regulations for padel court operating hours after residents complained about excessive noise late at night. Mayor Muhammad Farhan emphasised that business owners must not only secure legal permits but also maintain good communication with surrounding communities to prevent social conflict. The move follows a viral social media post from a resident on Jalan Surya Sumantri who reported persistent disturbances from a nearby padel venue.

BRIN advances underground river research to bolster water security

The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is intensifying research on underground river systems, including tracing water flows and developing treatment technologies to address E. coli contamination. The initiative aims to secure clean water sources for communities and supports the government's broader national water security agenda. The research priorities were discussed during a visit to the Karangsambung Science and Technology Area, with findings expected to inform future technological solutions.

Farmers' Exchange Rate Rises 0.15 Percent in July 2026

Indonesia's national Farmers' Exchange Rate (NTP) increased by 0.15 percent to 127.84 in July 2026, driven by a steeper decline in the prices paid by farmers compared to the prices they received. The rise occurred alongside a reported increase in average rice prices across all distribution levels. Separately, the country's trade balance recorded a deficit of US$450 million in June 2026, as import growth significantly outpaced exports.

House Commission III Accelerates Drafting of Asset Forfeiture Bill, Seeks Public Input

The House of Representatives' Commission III is fast-tracking the drafting of the Asset Forfeiture Bill and has opened a public consultation to gather input. Chairman Habiburokhman stated that the commission is utilising the recess period to conduct working visits to regions such as North Kalimantan, North Maluku, and Central Papua to absorb local aspirations. The move aims to mature the substance of the regulation before it proceeds to the legislative process.

IHSG Stagnant in First Session at 6,234 Level

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) ended the first trading session of the week virtually flat, edging down 0.03% to 6,234.29. Market participants adopted a cautious stance ahead of key domestic economic data releases and amid a broad sell-off across Asia-Pacific markets. Attention this week is focused on Indonesia's second-quarter GDP growth figures, July inflation data, and US employment reports that could signal the Federal Reserve's next policy move.

Understanding the Regent's Position in the PT Bandung Daya Sentosa Case

An observer clarifies the legal position of the Bandung Regent regarding a corruption case involving a regional-owned enterprise, PT Bandung Daya Sentosa. The Regent's responsibility is limited to the value of the capital injection as a shareholder, not personal liability for company losses. The public is urged to respect the ongoing legal process and avoid unfounded assumptions.

DPR Commission X Urges MK Ruling on Free Nutritious Meals Budget to Apply from 2027

A House of Representatives leader has called for the Constitutional Court's ruling to remove the Free Nutritious Meals programme from the education budget to be implemented by 2027, ahead of the court's 2028 deadline. The official argued that accelerating the change is crucial to redirect funds towards improving teacher quality, educational infrastructure, and student competencies. The push comes as the court recently ordered the government to stop funding the programme through the education allocation.

Minister champions equal job access for people with disabilities

Manpower Minister Yassierli has called for an inclusive workforce where people with disabilities are seen as active contributors rather than objects of pity. He highlighted that global labour participation for disabled individuals lags 30 percent behind others, and outlined a three-pillar strategy focusing on competency-based recruitment, workplace accommodations, and accessible employment services. The government is reinforcing Law No. 8/2016, which mandates disability hiring quotas across public and private sectors, while urging businesses to embed inclusivity into their human resource strategies.

Indonesia's Imports Surge 34.27% to US$26 Billion in July, Driven by Oil and Gas

Indonesia's import value soared to US$25.91 billion in June 2026, marking a 34.27% year-on-year increase. The surge was primarily fuelled by a doubling of oil and gas imports, which rose 105.15%, alongside a 25.05% increase in non-oil and gas imports. Raw materials and auxiliary goods were the main drivers, contributing a 26.94% share of the total import growth.

Indonesia resumes mineral exports amid rare-earth rule revision

Indonesia has resumed mineral exports while revising a ministerial regulation on rare-earth element (REE) content, following bottlenecks that stranded hundreds of ships. The government is coordinating with customs and the Attorney General's Office to clear shipments, with state surveyor PT Sucofindo authorised to issue delayed reports. The move aims to prevent economic disruption while the country refines its downstream mineral policy.

Police Investigate After Viral Video Shows Female Jogger Spat on by Motorcyclist in Bali

Police in Badung, Bali, have launched an investigation after a video went viral showing a female jogger, believed to be a foreign tourist, being spat on by a passing motorcyclist. The incident occurred on Jalan Raya Seseh and has sparked widespread public outrage on social media. Authorities are currently profiling both the victim and the suspect while increasing patrols and monitoring online discourse for leads.

PT PAL and BRIN Collaborate to Realise Green Shipyard, Supporting Maritime Industry

State-owned shipbuilder PT PAL Indonesia is partnering with the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) to transform its operations into an environmentally friendly 'green shipyard'. The collaboration aims to boost applied research, accelerate technological mastery, and enhance the competitiveness of the national shipbuilding industry. This initiative aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's directive to strengthen synergy between industry, research bodies, and universities.

Five workers killed by insurgents in Highland Papua, manhunt underway

Five road construction workers employed by PT SHJ were killed in an attack by an armed separatist group at their camp in Tolikara, Highland Papua. The military has condemned the assault on civilians working on infrastructure projects and has launched a joint operation with police to pursue the perpetrators. This incident adds to a series of violent attacks in the region targeting civilians, including teachers, traders, and transport workers.

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian Reveals Education Costs in Singapore Are Cheaper Than in Indonesia

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has highlighted the high cost of education in Indonesia, sharing his personal experience that schooling his children in Singapore was significantly cheaper than in Jakarta. He detailed the ancillary costs in Indonesia, such as transport and drivers, which inflated the total expenditure. Tito suggested that Singapore's standardised education quality and digital zoning system contribute to lower costs and better accessibility.

President Prabowo to Host Thai PM Anutin at Merdeka Palace for Strategic Talks

President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to receive Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on Monday afternoon. The visit marks the first official trip by a Thai prime minister to Indonesia in 15 years and will see the launch of a new Indonesia-Thailand Strategic Partnership Roadmap for 2026–2030. The leaders will be accompanied by their respective foreign ministers to discuss key areas including security, economic development, and socio-cultural cooperation.

Indonesia expands aquaculture to supply free meals program

The Indonesian government is integrating aquaculture into village economies to support its free meals initiative, with a pilot catfish farming project using biofloc technology in Blora, Central Java. The ministry aims to connect aquaculture zones with nutrition fulfilment service units to ensure market certainty for fish farmers and strengthen the supply chain for the national priority program. The initiative is expected to boost farmers' incomes, add value to the aquaculture sector, and contribute to national food self-sufficiency.

Jakarta Police Prepare Traffic Management for Thai PM's Visit

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police have announced traffic arrangements for the state visit of Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to Jakarta on 3-4 August 2026. Officers will provide escorts and implement situational traffic diversions along key protocol roads to ensure the smooth passage of the delegation. The public is advised to plan journeys accordingly or seek alternative routes to avoid potential congestion.

Medco's Sarulla Geothermal Power Plant in North Sumatra Producing Below Capacity, Here's Why

The Sarulla Geothermal Power Plant in North Sumatra is currently operating at only 220 MW, well below its installed capacity of 330 MW, due to technical challenges including declining steam pressure. The Indonesian government is preparing administrative resolutions and an additional investment of approximately US$270 million to restore full capacity by 2027-2028. The site holds an estimated total potential of 1,100 MW, making it a strategic asset for the nation's clean energy and energy security goals.

Indonesian Farmers' Purchasing Power Rises in July 2026, BPS Reveals Evidence

Indonesia's national Farmers' Terms of Trade (NTP) index rose to 127.84 in July 2026, a 0.15% increase from the previous month, signalling improved rural purchasing power. The increase was driven by gains in the food crops, smallholder plantation, and fisheries subsectors, despite declines in horticulture and livestock. Southeast Sulawesi recorded the highest provincial increase, while Gorontalo saw the sharpest decline.

Big Tech Earnings Spark Market Volatility as Investors Demand Proof of AI Returns

Global markets experienced heightened volatility as diverging earnings reports from major technology companies prompted investors to demand tangible returns on massive artificial intelligence investments. While Microsoft saw a record surge in market capitalisation, Apple suffered its worst day in years, reflecting a new, more selective phase in the AI-driven rally. The uncertainty was compounded by mixed signals from the Federal Reserve and rising bond yields.

Ministry of Social Affairs Launches 'Sekolah Rakyat' in Kendari to Break Poverty Cycle

The Ministry of Social Affairs has inaugurated the Sekolah Rakyat Terintegrasi 2 in Kendari, Southeast Sulawesi, as a strategic initiative to break the intergenerational poverty chain. The programme provides quality education, character building, and basic needs support for children from underprivileged families. The government plans to expand the model to five other regencies in the region, with the Kendari facility currently accommodating 339 students.

Ahead of Independence Day, PLN UID Yogyakarta Realises Power Upgrades for 1,273 Customers

State electricity company PLN's Yogyakarta distribution unit successfully upgraded the power capacity for 1,273 customers during a promotional programme in July 2026. The initiative, which offered a 50% discount on upgrade fees, saw the highest uptake among household customers, followed by businesses and social institutions. The programme reflects growing public demand for reliable electricity and PLN's commitment to enhancing digital service access.

Blora Government Deploys Thousands of Water Tanks to Tackle Drought Threat

The Blora Regency administration has begun distributing clean water using approximately 1,400 tanks to areas affected by the dry season. The initiative, launched in collaboration with the Blora Police, aims to meet the basic needs of residents as the region enters a period of water scarcity. The government has also called for participation from the diaspora and other parties to help mitigate the impact of the drought.

WhatsApp Web Video Calls Now Resemble Zoom, Here's How to Use Them

WhatsApp has upgraded its web browser version to support audio and video calls directly, eliminating the need for a separate desktop application. The new functionality includes productivity tools such as screen sharing, real-time reactions, and end-to-end encryption, bringing it closer in capability to dedicated conferencing platforms like Zoom. Additional enhancements include call transfer between devices, a waiting room for hosts, QuickHD video quality, and noise cancellation.

Food, transport, and gold jewellery drive inflation in July 2026

Indonesia's annual inflation in July 2026 was primarily driven by rising prices in the food, beverage, and tobacco sector, along with transport and personal care. Gold jewellery emerged as a significant contributor within the personal care category, while volatile food items like rice and chicken also added pressure. Regionally, all provinces experienced annual price increases, with West Papua recording the highest inflation rate.

Ternate Fisherman Rescued by French Vessel After 26 Days Adrift, Now En Route to China

A 57-year-old fisherman from Ternate, North Maluku, who went missing for 26 days, has been found alive in the Pacific Ocean. He was rescued by the crew of a French-flagged LNG carrier and is currently receiving medical care while the ship continues its voyage to China. Indonesian authorities are coordinating with the vessel to facilitate his eventual repatriation.

Seven Banten High Schools Withdraw from Free Education Programme, Governor Assures Enrolled Students Will Not Be Affected

Banten Governor Andra Soni has confirmed that students already enrolled in the province's free education programme will continue to be funded until graduation, despite seven private high schools withdrawing from the scheme. The obligation is stipulated in a memorandum of understanding signed between the schools and the provincial government. The administration is also reviewing applications from around 50 other schools seeking to join the programme.

153 Students at SMAN 2 Banjar Miss Out on PIP Funds, DPRD Summons Education Agency

The Bali Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) has summoned the provincial education agency after discovering that 153 students at SMAN 2 Banjar failed to receive their Indonesia Pintar Programme (PIP) funds. The commission attributed the failure to human resource issues in managing the disbursement system, rather than embezzlement. Lawmakers have ordered an evaluation of school staff and recommended changes to the collective disbursement process to prevent future delays.

Tabanan Vocational Training Centre Requires Infrastructure Repairs and Additional Facilities

The Tabanan Vocational Training Centre (BLK) in Bali is in urgent need of building renovations and updated equipment to improve training quality. Officials report that several workshops, including those for motorcycle repair and air conditioning, have deteriorated since the facility was granted by the central government in 1981. Instructors highlight a critical shortage of computers and modern sewing machines, which hampers efforts to enhance local skills and reduce unemployment.

Bandung Council Special Committee Discusses Bylaw Substance to Ensure Development Compliance

The Bandung City Council's Special Committee 17 is deliberating a draft bylaw to provide a legal foundation for the multi-year construction of the Regional Inspectorate building and a public hospital. The discussions focus on ensuring the projects meet all juridical, administrative, and technical requirements. The initiative aims to strengthen internal oversight and improve public health services in the city.

BPS: Indonesia's trade balance records US$3.58 billion surplus in January–June 2026

Indonesia's goods trade balance posted a cumulative surplus of US$3.58 billion in the first half of 2026, driven by a strong non-oil and gas sector. The overall surplus was tempered by a significant deficit in oil and gas trade, while exports grew 4.13% year-on-year. For June alone, the trade balance slipped into a US$450 million deficit.

Malaysia Airlines Co-Pilot Caught Smuggling 26kg of Ecstasy Through Fast Track at Soekarno-Hatta

Indonesian customs officials at Soekarno-Hatta Airport intercepted a Malaysia Airlines co-pilot attempting to smuggle 26 kilograms of ecstasy through a crew fast track lane. The suspect, who was found to be under the influence of drugs during the flight, was also carrying a bottle of urine intended to falsify a drug test. The pilot and evidence have been handed over to the Indonesian National Police for further investigation.

Bank Aladin Syariah Sends 15 Ala Pensiun Customers on Umrah to the Holy Land

PT Bank Aladin Syariah Tbk has dispatched 15 of its Ala Pensiun customers to the Holy Land for Umrah as a token of appreciation for their loyalty. The programme, which departed on 27 July and returns on 5 August, is part of the digital Islamic bank's commitment to building long-term relationships that deliver both financial and spiritual value. The initiative coincides with the bank's positive first-quarter performance, which saw net profit reach IDR 23.3 billion and active customers grow by 30.17% year-on-year.

Israeli Defence Minister Clashes with Military, General Refuses Order

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz engaged in an extraordinary public dispute with the military after attempting to dismiss a senior general on live television. The confrontation stemmed from the general's decision to extend the administrative detention of a settler suspected of a brutal attack on a Palestinian village. The military swiftly rebuffed the minister, stating he lacked the unilateral authority to fire the commander.

How a Boy from Bojonggede 'Snuck' into a Boot, Startling an Online Taxi Driver

A young boy caused alarm after being discovered hiding in the boot of an online taxi in Bojonggede, Bogor Regency. The driver and passenger were shocked when the child emerged mid-journey, prompting them to take him to the police to avoid accusations of kidnapping. Authorities later identified the child as a victim of parental disharmony and returned him to his grandparents via the local neighbourhood unit.

List of Candidates for Supreme Court Justices and Ad Hoc Judges

The Judicial Commission has commenced open interviews for 19 candidates vying for Supreme Court justice positions, along with candidates for ad hoc judges specialising in human rights and corruption. The selection process, running from 3 to 7 August, aims to fill 11 vacant justice positions across various chambers, including civil, criminal, and state administration. The commission seeks to nominate candidates with high integrity and professionalism to bolster public trust in the judiciary.

Korlantas Polri and Jasa Marga Collaborate on Overloaded Truck Enforcement

The Indonesian National Police Traffic Corps (Korlantas Polri) and state-owned toll road operator Jasa Marga are collaborating to tackle over-dimension and over-loading (ODOL) vehicles. The partnership involves integrating Jasa Marga's expanded Weigh In Motion (WIM) and LIDAR detection systems with the police's Electronic Traffic Law Enforcement (ETLE) system. The Zero ODOL policy is targeted for implementation early next year, with authorities emphasising a balanced approach that addresses upstream economic factors alongside downstream enforcement.

Indonesia Allows Export of Rare Earth Minerals as By-Products

The Indonesian government has confirmed that rare earth minerals can be exported as by-products, clarifying that the export ban only applies when they are the primary product. This decision aims to provide legal certainty and resolve delays affecting 85 surveyor reports and approximately 120 vessels. The move comes as the mining industry faces pressure from geopolitical tensions and rising costs.

Tugu Insurance posts Rp480.29 billion net profit in first half of 2026

PT Asuransi Tugu Pratama Indonesia Tbk (Tugu Insurance) reported a net profit attributable to the parent entity of Rp480.29 billion for the first half of 2026, a 76.87 percent year-on-year surge. The insurer's underwriting revenue rose 16.31 percent to Rp4.45 trillion, supported by disciplined underwriting and portfolio management. The company emphasised its commitment to prudent financial management and the implementation of PSAK 117 to enhance reporting transparency.

Bengkulu City Public Works Chief Noprisman Interrogated by KPK After Home Raid

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has interrogated Noprisman, the Head of Public Works and Spatial Planning for Bengkulu City, following a raid on his residence. The search is part of an expanding investigation into a corruption case involving the inactive Regent of Rejang Lebong. During the raid, investigators seized over Rp 4 billion in cash.

KPK Supervisory Board to Examine Police Officer Staffer Named Suspect in Extortion Case

The Supervisory Board of Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) will question a police officer assigned as an administrative staff member after he was named a suspect in an alleged extortion case. The examination aims to identify potential weaknesses in the anti-graft body's internal oversight system rather than interfere with the ongoing investigation. The Board is coordinating with KPK investigators and will proceed cautiously given the suspect's status as an active police officer.

Bank Indonesia Central Sulawesi Urges Public Vigilance Against Counterfeit Money Using Marker Ink

Bank Indonesia's Central Sulawesi office is intensifying public education on the 'Cinta, Bangga, Paham Rupiah' campaign to combat counterfeit currency. Officials warn that criminals are using specific marker inks to mimic ultraviolet security features, making it crucial for the public to learn precise verification methods. The initiative also promotes proper handling of banknotes through the '5J' method and encourages the use of official channels for exchanging damaged currency.

Prajogo's Holding Company Barito Pacific Reports 64% Profit Plunge

PT Barito Pacific Tbk (BRPT) saw its attributable profit for the first half of 2026 plummet 64% year-on-year to US$190 million, despite a 76.1% surge in revenue. The company attributed the profit decline to global geopolitical uncertainties, while its diversified portfolio and integrated operations provided some resilience. The firm remains committed to domestic investment, with its US$1 billion CA-EDC project on track for completion in 2027.