Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 10 September 2026

Showing 651-700 of 1,648 articles

New US Weapons Giant Opens, Capable of Producing 5,000 Missiles Per Year

The US defence tech startup Covenant has inaugurated a massive 105,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Dallas, Texas, aimed at mass-producing low-cost cruise missiles. Backed by US$250 million in venture capital, the company seeks to provide a strategic, affordable alternative to legacy weapons systems like the Tomahawk missile.

Purbaya Denies Rumours of Position Trading within Ministry of Finance

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has dismissed allegations regarding the bribery of officials for specific appointments within the Ministry of Finance. He clarified that rumours of him collecting Rp100 billion for position placements are entirely false and emphasised the importance of maintaining integrity.

Purbaya States Mass Bank Account Opening Budget Will Not Reach Rp11 Trillion

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has indicated that the budget for a mass bank account opening programme for the public is unlikely to exceed Rp11 trillion. The government is currently calculating the final figures and coordinating with Bank Indonesia and the OJK regarding the implementation scheme.

5 Most Popular International News Stories Today

A roundup of significant global developments, including the IAEA's decision to refer Iran to the UN Security Council and Donald Trump's promise of financial dividends to US citizens. The report also covers major international incidents involving drone seizures, cryptocurrency theft, and military damage in Jordan.

Indonesia Seeks Strong US Presence at Upcoming Creative Economy Conference

The Indonesian government is actively inviting US officials and major technology firms to participate in the upcoming World Conference on Creative Economy in Jakarta. The initiative aims to strengthen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations, particularly focusing on expanding exports in fashion, handicrafts, and digital innovation.

118 Students and Teachers in Three Jepara Schools Suspected of Food Poisoning from Free Nutritious Meal Programme

A total of 118 students and teachers across three schools in Jepara, Central Java, are suspected of suffering food poisoning after consuming meals from the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The victims experienced symptoms such as stomach aches and diarrhoea following the consumption of a meal consisting of grilled chicken and rice.

AHI aims to open up to 30 AZKO stores throughout 2026

PT Aspirasi Hidup Indonesia Tbk (AHI) has announced plans to expand its AZKO retail brand by opening 25 to 30 new stores in 2026. To support this expansion and existing store renovations, the company has allocated a capital expenditure of between Rp400 billion and Rp450 billion.

All Communication Cables to be Moved to SJUT, Pramono: PLN Cables Require More Time

The Jakarta Provincial Government aims to move all overhead utility cables underground to improve the city's landscape. While telecommunications cables are already being relocated, Governor Pramono Anung noted that moving electricity cables will require a more extended process.

Ledoksari Land Dispute: Solo City Government Prepares Flats and Market Stalls for Affected Residents

The Solo City Government has pledged to monitor the land dispute between PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) and Ledoksari residents closely. The administration plans to provide social assistance, including housing and market stalls, specifically for low-income families affected by the national strategic project.

Vice President Gibran Urges Protection of Vulnerable Groups Against Haze

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has called for enhanced protection of vulnerable populations amidst rising respiratory infection cases caused by forest and land fires in Kalimantan. He emphasised the need for optimised healthcare services and direct monitoring of those affected by the haze.

UGM Students Develop BREIT for Breast Cancer Detection

A group of students from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has developed BREIT, an intelligent electronic device designed to map breast tissue characteristics using Electrical Impedance Tomography. The innovation integrates artificial intelligence and wearable technology to support future cancer therapy and diagnostic processes.

KH Ma'ruf Khozin Forgives 'Sound Horeg' Entrepreneur After Insulting East Java MUI

The Chairman of the Fatwa Commission of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) East Java, KH Ma'ruf Khozin, has officially forgiven a business owner following an insulting remark made on live television. The entrepreneur, Setyo Budi Mularso, has issued a formal public apology and expressed deep regret for his actions.

House of Representatives Awaits Government's List of Issues Regarding Oil and Gas Bill

Commission XII of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) is waiting for the government's List of Issues (DIM) to proceed with discussions on the Oil and Gas Bill. The debate focuses on the structural design of the proposed Oil and Gas Business Entity (BUK Migas) and its potential placement under the President, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, or Pertamina.

When the Economy Grows, Finding Jobs Remains Difficult

An analysis of the paradox in Indonesia where steady economic growth fails to translate into high-quality formal employment. The author argues that structural shifts, driven by automation and capital-intensive investment, necessitate a new policy focus on the 'Investment-to-Quality-Jobs Conversion Ratio'.

Journalists Missing in Sunda Strait, Nico Siahaan: Press Duties are Heavy

Member of Parliament Junico Siahaan has expressed deep concern regarding the disappearance of five journalists reporting on Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait. He has called for an optimised search operation and the appointment of a liaison officer to support the victims' families.

Indonesia Moves to Foster Industrial Zone Governance

The Indonesian Ministry of Industry is working to strengthen the management of industrial zones to ensure legal certainty and a more attractive investment climate. The initiative focuses on ensuring that all industrial areas obtain the necessary Industrial Estate Business License (IUKI) to promote transparent and professional governance.

Denny Indrayana and Others Bring Gibran's Educational Requirement Controversy to Constitutional Court, Not Impeachment

A group of civil society members has filed a lawsuit with the Constitutional Court to challenge the validity of Gibran Rakabuming Raka's candidacy for Vice President. The petitioners argue that the dispute concerns the legality of his educational credentials rather than an attempt at impeachment.

Police Law Challenged Over Opportunities for Active Officers to Hold Civilian Positions

A judicial review has been filed with the Constitutional Court regarding the Police Law, alleging that provisions allowing active police officers to hold civilian government posts may disadvantage ordinary citizens. The petitioner argues that such regulations limit equal access to civil service positions through open competition.

LRT: Traffic flow around Manggarai to return to normal following diversions

Traffic around the Manggarai area is set to return to normal following the completion of the LRT Jakarta Phase 1B Velodrome-Manggarai construction. The project, which is now 99 per cent complete, will see the removal of previous traffic diversions to facilitate better integration with Manggarai KRL Station.

Dito Ariotedjo details origins of Indonesia's 20,000 additional Hajj quota

Former Youth and Sports Minister Dito Ariotedjo testified in court regarding the circumstances surrounding the acquisition of 20,000 additional Hajj quotas from Saudi Arabia. His testimony is part of the ongoing corruption trial involving allegations of misappropriation of Hajj quotas that caused significant state losses.

Visiting Palangkaraya, Gibran Apologises as Air Quality Fails to Recover from Forest Fires

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has issued a formal apology to the people of Kalimantan due to the persistent poor air quality caused by forest and land fires. During a visit to Palangkaraya, he emphasised the government's commitment to maximising fire management efforts and protecting vulnerable groups from respiratory illnesses.

Netravest: UPI Students Innovate AI Vest to Assist Visually Impaired Navigation

A group of students from Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia (UPI) has developed Netravest, an AI-powered wearable vest designed to assist visually impaired individuals. The device utilises sensor fusion, including LiDAR and computer vision, to detect obstacles and identify currency denominations in real-time.

BNPB Expresses Concern Over Disappearance of Journalists Covering Anak Krakatau

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has expressed deep concern regarding a group of journalists and crew members who lost contact while reporting on Anak Krakatau's volcanic activity. Search and rescue operations are currently underway involving Basarnas, the TNI, and the National Police.

State Budget Deficit at 0.91% of GDP in July 2026, Purbaya: Remains Controlled!

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that Indonesia's state budget deficit remains well within the safety limit, standing at 0.91% of GDP as of July 2026. The Minister highlighted that tax revenues have grown significantly by 23.7% without the introduction of new taxes or increased rates.

Yogyakarta Food Forum: Youth Formulate Policy Brief for National Food Security

A cross-sector forum held in Yogyakarta has brought together students, academics, and SMEs to address national food security challenges. The participants are developing a policy brief to be submitted to relevant stakeholders, focusing on issues such as farmer regeneration and land conversion.

Do Not Confide Blindly in ChatGPT, Experts Warn of the Dangers

The Indonesian Ministry of Health has issued a warning against using artificial intelligence like ChatGPT for sharing personal mental health issues. Experts caution that AI's tendency to provide pleasing, non-objective responses can lead to dangerous self-diagnosis and avoid professional medical intervention.

113,336 Acute Respiratory Infection Cases Recorded in Forest Fire Affected Areas

The Indonesian Ministry of Health has reported a cumulative total of 113,336 acute respiratory infection (ISPA) cases across seven provinces due to forest and land fires. The Ministry has mobilised health services across hundreds of hospitals and community health centres to manage the health impact of the ongoing haze.

Indonesia Pushes Faster Disaster Mitigation Through Resilience Investment

The Indonesian government is accelerating disaster mitigation efforts by promoting resilience investment and green infrastructure to combat climate change risks. Vice Energy Minister Yuliot emphasised the need for inclusive early warning systems and cross-sector collaboration to protect vital national strategic facilities, including oil and gas operations.

Attorney General's Office Seizes Rp1 Trillion in Inhutani V Land Encroachment Case in Lampung

The Attorney General's Office has seized Rp1.003 trillion and USD 166,000 from PT Pemuka Sakti Manis Indah (PSMI) following an investigation into illegal land use in Lampung. The funds were surrendered voluntarily as part of the legal process involving the unauthorised use of PT Inhutani V forest areas.

Muara Enim Regional Secretary Questioned by KPK Regarding Regent Edison Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has interrogated the Muara Enim Regional Secretary as part of an investigation into alleged bribery in local procurement. The case involves the inactive Regent, Edison, who has been named a suspect in a bribery scandal involving the Department of Education and Culture.

Iran Seizes Advanced US Drone, Potential for Reverse Engineering?

Iranian authorities have reportedly seized an advanced US underwater drone, known as the Dive-LD, sparking concerns over potential reverse engineering. While the US Navy downplays the incident as the loss of an older, malfunctioning model, the event presents a significant intelligence opportunity for Tehran.

Today's Top 3 News: Apple Event 2026, Singapore Air Quality

This news roundup covers Apple's unveiling of its first foldable iPhone and the worsening air quality in Singapore due to haze from Indonesian fires. Crucially, Amnesty International Indonesia has called for a suspension of the government's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme following mass food poisoning incidents in Papua and Central Java.

Alumni of Manba'ul Hikam Islamic Boarding School Sidoarjo Issue Three Demands Following Mass Poisoning

Alumni of the Manba'ul Hikam Islamic boarding school in Sidoarjo have issued three formal demands following a mass poisoning incident involving the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The group is calling for laboratory transparency, long-term health guarantees, and legal accountability for any negligence found in the food supply process.

Canada begins construction of largest carbon capture project

Canada has commenced construction on the 'Origins' carbon capture and storage (CCS) hub near Clive, Alberta, which is set to become the largest facility of its kind in the country. The project aims to store up to 1.5 million tonnes of CO2 annually by 2027, supporting various industrial sectors including oil, gas, and petrochemicals.

Nearly 1 Million Masks Distributed to Areas Affected by Forest Fires

The Indonesian Ministry of Health has distributed over 980,000 masks to assist communities impacted by forest and land fires. Alongside masks, the Ministry has mobilised essential medical logistics and healthcare personnel across seven provinces to mitigate the health risks posed by smoke inhalation.

3 Civil Servants Shot Dead by KKB: LBH States This is a Human Rights Violation

The shooting of three agricultural officials in Jayawijaya, Papua Highlands, by the Armed Criminal Group (KKB) has sparked condemnation from human rights advocates. The Legal Aid Institute (LBH) Mahajaya has labelled the attack a serious violation of human rights, noting that the victims were unarmed civilians performing public services.

Andre Rosiade Provides Rp10 Million Aid to Fatih, Toddler Battling Tumour

Andre Rosiade, Vice Chairman of Commission VI of the Indonesian House of Representatives, has donated Rp10 million to assist a toddler in Padang fighting a brain tumour. The aid aims to alleviate the financial burden of medical expenses for the family, whose primary income is limited.

Vale: Nickel prospects remain solid amid developments in AI and eVTOL

PT Vale Indonesia Tbk anticipates a strong future for nickel demand, driven by emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. Despite short-term geopolitical and supply-demand volatility, the company is focusing on strategic diversification and long-term investment.

Anthropic Researcher Resigns Due to Concerns Over AI Development Risks

AI researcher Jacob Coxon has resigned from Anthropic, citing fears that the race towards super-intelligence between companies like Anthropic and OpenAI poses an existential threat to humanity. He warns that the rapid advancement of recursive self-improvement in AI could lead to uncontrollable systems capable of hacking any infrastructure and seizing real-world resources.

Japan Sends 3 Chinook Helicopters to Assist in West Kalimantan Forest Fire Suppression

The Japanese government has deployed three heavy-lift Chinook helicopters and approximately 300 personnel to combat forest and land fires in West Kalimantan. The aid arrived via the JS Kunisaki at Kijing Port as part of an international effort to support aerial water bombing operations.

Islamic Boarding School Caretaker Surrenders Following Alleged Molestation of Female Students

A prominent community figure and caretaker of an Islamic boarding school in Pati has surrendered to the police following allegations of sexual abuse against female students. The surrender follows a period of unrest where local residents stormed and sealed the boarding school premises.

Nezar highlights 'data poisoning' risks in AI adoption within journalism

The Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital, Nezar Patria, has warned of the dangers posed by 'data poisoning' in AI-driven news production. He emphasised that manipulated data can lead to the spread of misinformation if journalists rely solely on AI without direct field verification.

Indonesian Air Force Member Dies Following Alleged Assault at Halim Air Base Complex

An Indonesian Air Force member has passed away following an alleged assault by four fellow service members at the Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base complex in East Jakarta. The Air Force Military Police are currently conducting an investigation into the incident.

Pertamina takes over rogue petrol stations to tighten oversight of subsidised fuel

Pertamina Patra Niaga has announced a strategy to take over the operations of petrol stations found to be mismanaging subsidised fuel. By utilising a joint operation scheme, the state-owned enterprise aims to improve distribution quality and ensure strict supervision without reducing the number of available service stations.

ITS Geologist Urges Public Not to Panic Over Surabaya Fault Line Reports

A geology expert from the Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) has advised residents to remain calm following viral social media reports regarding active fault lines in Surabaya. While geological studies confirm the existence of the Surabaya and Waru faults, the expert emphasises that their status as 'active' remains unverified and requires further scientific investigation.

JCI Plummets 1.29%! Hit Hard by Oil Prices and US Bonds

The Indonesia Composite Index (JCI) fell by 1.29% to 6,591.90, driven by significant selling pressure in the energy and healthcare sectors. The decline was heavily influenced by global market volatility, specifically rising oil prices and increasing US Treasury yields.

BTN targets 20 per cent dividend payout ratio

PT Bank Tabungan Negara (Persero) Tbk (BTN) aims to distribute dividends for the 2026 financial year with a payout ratio between 20% and 25% of net profit. The bank's decision remains subject to approval at the General Meeting of Shareholders, following a period of retaining earnings to fund business expansion.

Jepara proposes development of educational tourism in Karimunjawa Islands

The Jepara Regency Government is initiating a plan to develop educational tourism, including English language programmes, in the Karimunjawa Islands. This initiative aims to diversify tourism offerings beyond marine activities and expand economic benefits to neighbouring islands such as Nyamuk Island.

Indonesia to push economic, financial inclusion at BRICS Summit

Indonesia intends to prioritise economic and financial inclusion during its participation in the upcoming BRICS Summit in India. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Vahd Nabyl A. Mulachela stated that the nation aims to expand its network of economic partnerships to better address global challenges through diverse international cooperation.

Dukcapil Supports Expansion of Bank Account Access via Population Data

The Directorate General of Population and Civil Registration (Dukcapil) is supporting the expansion of banking access by leveraging verified population data to boost national financial inclusion. This initiative involves synchronising Dukcapil data with Bank Indonesia's systems to streamline identity verification and payment processes.