Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 7 August 2026

Showing 401-450 of 1,438 articles

Budget Efficiency for Free Nutritious Meals: Local Food-Based Menus Offer Affordable Option

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency is recalculating the 2026 Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme budget, aiming for significant efficiency from the initial Rp 268 trillion allocation. The review includes restructuring operational incentives to better reflect the varying capacities of service units. Meanwhile, experts suggest utilising local food sources to maintain nutritional quality while keeping meal costs as low as Rp 7,000 per portion.

Manokwari Regent: Coffee Festival to Accelerate MSME Development

The Manokwari Regency government is leveraging the 2026 Manokwari Coffee Festival as a strategic tool to boost micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by promoting local products and expanding market access. Regent Hermus Indou highlighted the region's 30-hectare coffee potential and stressed the need for integrated development across upstream production, downstream processing, and marketing. The initiative also aims to combine coffee promotion with eco-tourism, particularly birdwatching for the endemic Vogelkop Bowerbird.

Prabowo Issues Ultimatum to Regional Heads: Fulfil the People's Demands or the President Will Intervene

President Prabowo Subianto has issued a stern ultimatum to regional leaders, warning that the central government will directly intervene to build village infrastructure if local administrations fail to utilise village funds effectively. He highlighted that Rp 1 billion per village has been disbursed annually for a decade, yet many basic needs like bridges remain unmet. The President also touted his administration's achievements, including the construction of nearly 2,500 village bridges and plans to renovate all schools and community health centres nationwide.

West Java Police Joint Operation Uncovers Hundreds of Street Crimes, Seizes Vehicles and Weapons

A major joint operation by the West Java Regional Police has resulted in the resolution of 352 street crime cases and the arrest of 413 suspects. Authorities also seized over a thousand vehicles, several firearms, and hundreds of bladed weapons. The operation, conducted between June and August 2026, also saw the destruction of more than 9,000 non-standard exhausts.

Indonesia to assess Montara spill damage in East Nusa Tenggara

The Indonesian government is launching a research team to assess environmental damage and formulate restoration measures following the 2009 Montara oil spill, which continues to devastate marine ecosystems and coastal livelihoods in East Nusa Tenggara. Minister Sadewa emphasised a comprehensive approach combining environmental rehabilitation, economic recovery, and legal accountability, while also reviewing the distribution of compensation to affected communities. The disaster, caused by a PTT Group subsidiary's wellhead blowout, has severely impacted fishing catches, seaweed farming, and related small businesses for nearly 17 years.

BGN Dismisses 66 Free Meal Kitchen Heads for Indiscipline

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has dismissed 66 heads of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme kitchens for various disciplinary violations, including prolonged absence, involvement in online gambling, and phishing scams. The dismissals, processed as dishonourable discharges, are part of a broader effort to improve governance and quality control within the programme. BGN is also internally disciplining 60 other staff members and has mandated health checks for all kitchen workers to prevent issues like recurring food poisoning.

Free Investment Insights: Kelas Cuan Online Webinar Returns

CNBC Indonesia is hosting a free online investment webinar, 'Kelas Cuan Online', on 10 August 2026, featuring insights from GoTo's Investor Relations Senior Manager and a CNBC market analyst. The session aims to help investors, particularly beginners, navigate the current volatile market conditions, with the IHSG down 26.79% year-to-date despite a recent monthly gain. The webinar will discuss market outlooks, influencing factors, and potential investment opportunities.

Bappenas Backs Papeda Summit 2026 in Sorong for Sustainable Papua Development

The Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas) has officially endorsed the Papeda Summit 2026, scheduled for September in Sorong, Southwest Papua. The forum aims to unite central and regional governments, indigenous communities, and other stakeholders to formulate policy recommendations for a more sustainable future in Papua. The summit will focus on collective action for economic development and nature conservation, aligning with the government's master plan for the region.

Meat packer JBS to partner Danantara arm in joint venture

Brazilian meatpacker JBS has announced a joint venture with an arm of Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund, Danantara, to invest in protein production across Indonesia, Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. The deal involves a US$2.5 billion investment from the Indonesian fund and will include JBS's existing Australian and New Zealand operations, with an initial focus on deploying capital into Indonesia's protein sector. The venture plans to seek additional debt financing and eventually pursue an initial public offering.

West Java Provincial Government to Oversee Implementation of 3 Million Homes Programme

The West Java Provincial Government has pledged to closely monitor the national '3 Million Homes' programme to ensure it delivers genuine benefits. Regional Secretary Herman Suryatman stressed that the initiative must prioritise welfare over mere numerical targets, with accountable data collection and transparent construction processes. Implementation is set to begin in September 2026, with all 27 regencies and cities urged to focus on effective execution.

Surrounded by Chinese Cars, Daihatsu Boss Reveals Unexpected Strategy

Daihatsu remains unfazed by the influx of Chinese automotive brands into Indonesia, choosing to double down on its core first-time car buyer segment. The company believes its ecosystem of affordable ownership, from flexible financing to strong resale value, provides a competitive edge that new entrants cannot easily replicate. Meanwhile, Daihatsu reported positive initial demand for its Rocky Hybrid, with 800 orders placed despite limited imported supply.

Bahlil Reveals Story Behind 2019 Nickel Ore Export Ban: 'It Wasn't Even My Authority'

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia recounted the unusual circumstances behind the 2019 nickel ore export ban, a policy he implemented while serving as head of the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) despite it not being under his formal authority. Bahlil described the decision, which was based solely on a meeting he chaired and not a ministerial decree, as a 'miracle' that was nonetheless obeyed by all mining businesses. The ban marked a pivotal moment in Indonesia's mineral downstreaming strategy, accelerating the shift from raw material exports to value-added processing.

Aceh Government Urges SBI to Optimise Cement Production for Post-Disaster Needs

The Aceh administration is pressing PT Solusi Bangun Indonesia (SBI) to maximise output at its Lhoknga plant to address a critical cement shortage hindering post-disaster reconstruction. With daily demand projected at 4,200 tonnes against a supply of only 3,700 tonnes, the deficit has caused prices to surge by up to 50 per cent. SBI has pledged to move to 24-hour operations and prioritise Aceh's requirements to stabilise the market.

Indonesian Stocks Gain as BI Reserves Stay Well Above Global Benchmark

Indonesian stocks rose over 1% on Friday, buoyed by Bank Indonesia's foreign exchange reserves which, despite a slight dip to $145.3 billion, remain well above international adequacy standards. The strong reserve position, equivalent to 5.5 months of imports, helped reassure investors and offset global concerns over US interest rate policy and Middle East tensions. Market participants are also closely watching the upcoming appointment of a permanent Bank Indonesia governor, expecting a commitment to rupiah stability and inflation control.

Amnesty International Demands Release of Netizens Who Criticised President's Speech

Amnesty International Indonesia has urged the police to unconditionally release two netizens arrested in Cimahi for allegedly criticising President Prabowo Subianto's remarks on Iran's nuclear programme. The human rights group argues the arrests represent a repressive pattern that shrinks civic space and contradicts a Constitutional Court ruling that digital uproar is not a criminal offence. The two individuals face charges under the ITE Law and the new Criminal Code, carrying a maximum penalty of four years in prison.

Forestry Minister Conveys President Prabowo's 'ASRI' Greetings to South Sumatra Residents

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni delivered President Prabowo Subianto's 'ASRI' greetings to the people of South Sumatra during the inauguration of a new nursery centre. The ASRI programme, which stands for Safe, Healthy, Clean, and Beautiful, aims to enhance environmental quality across Indonesia. The minister highlighted the government's commitment to expanding nursery facilities to support nationwide greening efforts.

AdaKami Applies 'Human Oversight' Principle in AI Adoption

Indonesian fintech firm AdaKami has affirmed its commitment to the 'human oversight' principle in deploying artificial intelligence, ensuring that decisions directly impacting consumers remain under human control. The company uses AI to enhance risk analysis, fraud detection, and customer service efficiency while adhering to data protection laws and financial sector ethical guidelines. AdaKami also highlighted its proactive role in building cyber defence ecosystems amid rising AI-driven fraud threats.

West Java KAHMI Presidium Election: A Pathway for Dedi Mulyadi Towards the Presidency

The upcoming election of the West Java KAHMI presidium is being viewed as a strategic move to build political infrastructure for Governor Dedi Mulyadi's potential 2029 presidential bid. His current popularity, which surpasses that of President Prabowo Subianto, is seen as a strong foundation, but activists argue it must be supported by organised political networks. The presidium election is considered crucial for consolidating support in West Java, the province with the largest number of voters, which has yet to produce a presidential candidate.

Central Jakarta Police Strengthen Collaboration to Eradicate Tramadol in Tanah Abang

The Central Jakarta Metro Police are intensifying collaboration with local government and residents to combat the illegal distribution of the hard drug tramadol in Tanah Abang district. A joint declaration was signed in Petamburan, emphasising that law enforcement alone is insufficient without active community participation in reporting and monitoring. The initiative aims to narrow the operational space for traffickers and reject the negative stigma associated with the area.

Lintasarta Drives Digital Transformation for Regional Development Banks Through Intelligent Core

Lintasarta has introduced its 'Intelligent Core' digital foundation to help Indonesia's Regional Development Banks (BPD) meet rising demands for digital capability and cybersecurity. The integrated ecosystem combines connectivity, cloud, cybersecurity, and AI collaboration to provide a secure and efficient infrastructure tailored to each region's unique characteristics. The initiative, announced at the BPD Summit 2026, aims to strengthen the banks' role as drivers of local economic growth while aligning with the Financial Services Authority's (OJK) roadmap.

Government Strengthens and Builds Intellectual Property Ecosystem

The Indonesian government is reinforcing its commitment to intellectual property (IP) as a cornerstone of innovation-driven economic growth. A national coordination forum in 2026 saw the signing of a national IP master plan and strategic partnerships. The initiative also includes the integration of communal intellectual property data to enhance protection and utilisation.

Former Sushi Chain Boss Jailed in S$15.8 Million Fraud Case

A Singapore court has sentenced the former director of Sakae Holdings, Andy Ong, to 10.5 years in prison for his role in the fraudulent transfer of S$15.8 million (Rp 220.5 billion) from a joint venture. The case centred on the falsification of documents related to the Bugis Cube development project. Two accomplices received 12-month sentences for providing false testimony in a related civil case.

Former Natuna Village Head Named Corruption Suspect, State Losses Reach IDR 533 Million

A former village head in Natuna has been named a suspect in a corruption case involving the mismanagement of village funds. The alleged irregularities, which occurred between 2021 and 2024, resulted in state losses totalling IDR 533.7 million. The suspect is now in detention and faces up to 20 years' imprisonment.

Asprindo Encourages Red and White Village Cooperatives to Collaborate with Industrial Villages

The Nusantara Indigenous Indonesian Entrepreneurs Association (Asprindo) has proposed that the government's Red and White Village Cooperatives (KDMP) programme be integrated with its Industrial Village initiative. The association argues that this synergy would transform villages from mere distribution points into production hubs, adding value to local commodities. The collaboration aims to create new economic growth centres by connecting institutional frameworks with production ecosystems, processing, and market access.

BGN Ensures Optimal Healthcare for Free Nutritious Meal Programme Beneficiaries

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has confirmed that all recipients affected by a suspected food safety incident in the Free Nutritious Meal programme in Jayapura, Papua, are receiving optimal medical care. A total of 219 beneficiaries have been treated, with initial investigations pointing to a prematurely cooked tempeh dish as a possible cause. The BGN has suspended the involved kitchen's operations and is conducting a thorough evaluation to strengthen oversight and prevent recurrence.

DJKI Seizes 9,609 Pairs of Shoes with Illegal Branding, Business Turnover Reaches IDR 1 Billion

The Directorate General of Intellectual Property (DJKI) has seized 9,609 pairs of shoes suspected of using the ASICS trademark without authorisation in Tangerang Regency. The operation followed a complaint from the Japanese rights holder, ASICS Corporation. Investigators estimate the illicit business generated a monthly turnover of approximately IDR 1 billion.

RI Govt taps Patriot Expedition Team to map blue economy potential

The Indonesian government is deploying the Patriot Expedition Team to map the economic potential of coastal regions, aiming to tailor fisheries and marine resource development to local characteristics. The initiative is part of a broader blue economy strategy that includes modernising the fisheries sector, expanding aquaculture, and establishing Red and White Fishing Villages to boost regional growth. The findings will guide efforts to improve the livelihoods of fishers and coastal communities while ensuring the long-term sustainability of marine resources.

Bandung's Husein Airport ready to serve jet flights on 14 August

Husein Sastranegara Airport in Bandung will resume medium-body jet services on 14 August 2026, starting with a Garuda Indonesia route to and from Denpasar. State-owned airport operator InJourney Airports confirmed it has secured approval from the Ministry of Transportation after meeting all operational readiness requirements. The reactivation is seen as a significant moment for the city, with local officials hoping it will boost connectivity and tourism.

Jakarta Council Backs Public Naming of Illegal Waste Dumping Companies

The Jakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) has endorsed Governor Pramono Anung's plan to publicly name and shame private companies caught illegally dumping waste. Commission D is pushing for stricter oversight of commercial waste from offices, malls, and hotels, while a special committee will audit around 200 registered private waste vendors. The council aims to trace the final disposal sites of these vendors through random inspections to ensure compliance and reduce the burden on the Bantargebang landfill.

Prabowo Rates Bahlil's Performance as Satisfactory

President Prabowo Subianto has given Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia a 'satisfactory' performance rating, while noting there is still room for improvement. Speaking at Bahlil's book launch and 50th birthday celebration, Prabowo praised the minister's leadership and credited his management for maintaining stable subsidised fuel prices. The President also highlighted Bahlil's life journey as an inspiration for Indonesia's youth.

Bandung City Government Fines Videotron Manager Rp100 Million for Felling 10 Trees

The Bandung City Government has imposed an administrative fine of Rp100 million on the manager of a videotron on Jalan Riau for illegally felling 10 trees to improve the screen's visibility. Mayor Muhammad Farhan stated the action violated local regulations and impacted the city's aesthetics, with each tree carrying a Rp10 million fine and a requirement to plant 100 replacement saplings. Authorities are also investigating potential involvement of the adjacent padel court management and possible internal procedural breaches by civil servants.

Prabowo: Bahlil Lahadalia is not just a minister but also a political partner

President Prabowo Subianto has described Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia as a political partner, not merely a subordinate, citing his role as Chairman of the Golkar Party. Speaking at a book launch, Prabowo emphasised the importance of partnership and togetherness among national figures in Indonesian political life. He also praised the cabinet's performance, highlighting the critical management of energy and food sectors amid global uncertainties.

State Palace clarifies nuclear research development for energy and medical purposes

The Indonesian government is directing nuclear research towards energy and health applications, including the potential construction of nuclear power plants. State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi stated the focus is on solving national problems through impactful research, following a BRIN exhibition at the Presidential Palace. President Prabowo Subianto has instructed research bodies to consolidate resources to produce tangible results in sectors like energy, health, and defence.

IVD Industry Strengthens Expansion, Indonesia Targeted as Southeast Asian Manufacturing Base

The in vitro diagnostics (IVD) industry is shifting its business strategy towards private market penetration and export expansion amid slowing government health equipment spending. Virtue Diagnostics Indonesia has ramped up local production, achieving over 150 instruments and 31,000 reagent kits by mid-2026, and has begun exporting to the Philippines. The company views Indonesia as having significant potential to become a regional IVD manufacturing hub, calling for government synergy to support long-term investment.

950 Nutrition Service Kitchens Face Permanent Closure Over Hygiene and Sanitation Concerns

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has identified 950 kitchens under its free meal programme that are suspected of failing to meet hygiene and sanitation standards. These facilities have been given until 10 August 2026 to obtain the required Sertifikat Laik Higiene dan Sanitasi (SLHS) or face permanent closure. The agency head stressed that the certificate is an absolute requirement, not merely an administrative formality.

President Prabowo: Bahlil is an Eastern Indonesian Who Could Make Jokowi Laugh

President Prabowo Subianto praised Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia during the launch of ten books commemorating his 50th birthday, highlighting his unique ability to make former President Joko Widodo laugh. Prabowo also commended Bahlil's leadership, intelligence, and rise from a humble background, giving his ministerial performance a 'satisfactory' rating. The event featured testimonials from various political figures and a recollection of Bahlil's key role in banning nickel ore exports in 2019.

Aceh Village Fund Disbursement Reaches 81.88 Percent

The Aceh Community and Village Empowerment Agency (DPMG) reports that the disbursement of regular village funds in the province has reached Rp1.458 trillion, or 81.88 percent of the total 2026 allocation. The funds are distributed in two stages, with the first stage fully disbursed to all 6,497 villages. Officials urge transparent management of the funds, which are earmarked for direct cash assistance, food security, health, and other priority programmes.

BGN Chief Dismisses 66 MBG Kitchen Heads Dishonourably

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is processing the dishonourable discharge of 66 civil servant kitchen heads from the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The dismissals follow proven disciplinary and legal violations, including absenteeism, fraud, and criminal activity. The agency is also investigating 60 other cases involving conflicts between kitchen heads and their private sector partners.

National Diagnostics Industry Continues to Grow Amidst Challenges, Local Manufacturing Investment Strengthened

Indonesia's in-vitro diagnostics (IVD) industry is demonstrating sustained growth despite global economic pressures and reduced government health spending. Virtue Diagnostics is expanding its local manufacturing footprint in Cikarang, boosting production capacity and developing new molecular diagnostic technologies. The firm is also diversifying into the private sector and has begun exporting Indonesian-made reagents and instruments to the Philippines.

Danantara and JBS Forge USD 2.5 Billion Protein Partnership

Danantara Indonesia has entered a long-term strategic partnership with global protein giant JBS Group, involving a USD 2.5 billion investment for a 25 per cent stake in a new joint venture. The venture will manage JBS's operations in Australia and New Zealand, with the potential to raise an additional USD 2.5 billion for acquisitions and greenfield investments across Indonesia and Southeast Asia. The deal aims to leverage JBS's established ecosystem and expertise to support the long-term development of Indonesia's protein sector.

BP BUMN Targets Reducing State-Owned Enterprises to 250 Entities

The Supervisory Board for State-Owned Enterprises (BP BUMN) is accelerating its streamlining programme, aiming to reduce the total number of state-owned entities from the current count to just 250. This involves the dissolution or consolidation of 652 companies as part of a broader transformation to create a leaner and more efficient structure. The initiative has already yielded positive results, including a significant profit for Pupuk Indonesia and the commencement of fertiliser exports to Australia.

Tanah Abang Community Groups Back Declaration to Eradicate Illegal Tramadol

Community organisations in Tanah Abang, Central Jakarta, have pledged their support for a government-led initiative to combat the illegal distribution of tramadol. The declaration, initiated by the local leadership forum, reflects growing public concern over the misuse of prescription drugs. Residents committed to safeguarding their neighbourhoods and supporting law enforcement efforts to curb the circulation of illicit substances.

Prabowo: Government Accelerates Village Bridge Construction

President Prabowo Subianto has announced that the government is accelerating the construction of damaged bridges in villages, with nearly 2,500 units already underway. He noted that village funds have been insufficient to address basic infrastructure needs, prompting direct presidential intervention. The initiative is part of a broader push to upgrade public facilities, including community health centres.

Luhut Praises Bahlil's Role in Indonesia's Nickel Downstreaming: Once Mocked, Now Opponents Queue to Invest

Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan has lauded the success of Indonesia's nickel downstreaming policy, highlighting how initial scepticism and international legal challenges have turned into a rush of investment interest. He credited Minister Bahlil Lahadalia for his firm stance in banning raw nickel exports during his tenure at the Investment Coordinating Board. The policy has led to a significant surge in exports of processed nickel products and spurred double-digit economic growth in industrial areas like Morowali and Central Halmahera.

Depok Mutilation Suspect Previously Appeared on Talent Search Show

Saepul, the suspect in the mutilation of a man in Depok, was once a contestant on a televised talent search. Police revealed that after killing the victim, whom he met through a dating app, Saepul dismembered the body and disposed of the remains. Investigations later uncovered that the murder was premeditated, motivated by a plan to steal the victim's motorcycle and belongings.

Former South Jakarta School Foundation Chairman to be Questioned over Hundreds of Weapons

Police are set to question a former chairman of a private school foundation in South Jakarta after a cache of hundreds of weapons was discovered on the premises. The individual, identified by the initials IWD, is being summoned to clarify the origin, licensing, and purpose of the stockpile. The discovery, which included nearly a thousand airsoft guns, air rifles, a firearm, and narcotics, was made after the foundation's management changed hands.

CIMB Niaga and Ajaib bring integrated banking and investment services

CIMB Niaga and Ajaib Group have announced a strategic partnership to offer integrated digital banking and investment services. The collaboration will allow CIMB Niaga customers to access Ajaib's stock investment platform and open RDN accounts seamlessly via the OCTO app, while Ajaib users gain access to CIMB Niaga's banking solutions. The initiative aims to enhance financial inclusion and simplify wealth management for long-term financial goals.

AI Becomes South Korea's New Gold Mine, Employee Bonuses Hit Rp7 Billion

South Korea's semiconductor industry is experiencing a massive windfall driven by the AI boom, leading to record profits and employee bonuses reaching up to US$400,000. This surge in wealth has sparked a national debate on economic inequality and prompted the government to consider new policies, including a 'Future Response Fund' and potential universal basic income schemes. The phenomenon has created a new class of 'silicon collar' workers while leaving other sectors behind, causing volatile stock market swings as retail investors chase AI-related gains.

Prabowo Names Ben Mboi and Cak Noer as His Leadership Mentors

President Prabowo Subianto has cited former East Nusa Tenggara Governor Ben Mboi and former East Java Governor Muhammad Noer as key mentors who shaped his leadership philosophy. He recalled their advice that governing is simple: love the people and use common sense in policymaking. Prabowo emphasised that policies like downstreaming and food self-sufficiency, rooted in these principles, are designed to ensure national security and give hope to the most vulnerable citizens.

Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan Sign Historic Joint Defence Pact

Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan have signed a landmark joint defence agreement in Makkah, establishing a collective security framework. The pact includes a crucial clause stating that an armed attack against one nation will be considered an attack against all three. The agreement aims to strengthen deterrence against aggression and enhance regional stability.