Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 September 2026

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Producer of 'Sang Pengadil' Charged with Concealing Zarof Ricar's Assets

Executive producer Agung Winarno has been indicted for laundering assets belonging to former Supreme Court official Zarof Ricar, including luxury vehicles and cash. The prosecution alleges that the defendant helped disguise the origin of wealth derived from corruption through film production financing and the concealment of land documents.

Former Ministry of Education Consultant Files Appeal in Chromebook Case, Attorney General's Office Prepared to Respond

Ibrahim Arief, a former technology consultant for the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, has filed a cassation appeal to the Supreme Court following an increased prison sentence. The Attorney General's Office has confirmed it is prepared to contest the appeal and has also filed its own cassation request.

Ministry of Manpower Urges Workers to Carefully Understand Rights and Obligations in Employment Contracts

The Indonesian Ministry of Manpower has advised employees to thoroughly review employment agreements before signing to ensure they understand their duties and entitlements. The Ministry emphasises that a clear understanding of wages, working hours, and safety standards is essential for maintaining harmonious industrial relations.

Investigation Escalates in Karo Free Nutritious Meal Poisoning Case; Prosecutor Receives Police Notice

The Karo District Prosecutor's Office has received a formal notice of investigation regarding the mass poisoning of hundreds of students following the consumption of Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) in North Sumatra. The National Nutrition Agency has already dismissed the head of the relevant service unit and sealed the operational kitchen following findings of negligence in food storage.

Assisting Local Governments, Purbaya Prepares BPD Financing Scheme

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa is developing a new 'BPD Financing' scheme to support regional development despite limited fiscal space. Under this proposal, Regional Development Banks (BPD) will provide initial funding for projects, with the central government gradually repaying the obligations over several years.

Coordinating Minister: BPOM plays a major role in increasing Indonesia's healthy life expectancy

The Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Cultural Affairs, Pratikno, has emphasised the importance of BPOM's oversight in improving Indonesia's healthy life expectancy (Hale). He highlighted the need to address challenges such as high sugar, salt, and fat consumption, as well as the heavy reliance on imported medicinal raw materials.

RUKKI proposes increase in e-cigarette excise tax to combat nicotine addiction

The Indonesian Health Policy Space (RUKKI) has urged the government to raise excise duties on e-cigarettes to prevent nicotine addiction. The group warns that low prices encourage 'down-trading' and make these products easily accessible to students.

KM Virgo 8 Capsizes in Java Sea; Owner Denies Vessel Unseaworthiness

PT Virgo Karya Shipping has refuted allegations that the KM Virgo Transport 8 was unfit for service following its capsizing in the Java Sea. The company maintains that the vessel underwent comprehensive maintenance earlier this year and complies with all maritime safety regulations.

AHY Responds to Virgo Transport 8 Ship Accident, Highlighting Safety Concerns

The Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono, has addressed the recent accident involving the Virgo Transport 8 vessel in the Java Sea. While rescue operations continue, the government is awaiting a full investigation to determine whether weather or technical failures caused the incident.

From Pratikno to Suahasil Gathering at the Palace, Will Prabowo Reshuffle the Cabinet?

Speculation regarding a cabinet reshuffle under President Prabowo Subianto has intensified following the presence of several high-ranking officials at the State Palace. Notable figures, including Coordinating Minister Pratikno and Deputy Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara, were observed arriving at the palace ahead of a reported inauguration ceremony.

National Food Agency Head Calls for Three New Officials to Strengthen Food Price Stability

The Head of the National Food Agency (Bapanas), Andi Amran Sulaiman, has urged newly appointed high-ranking officials to prioritise food price stability and combat market irregularities. The directive focuses on strengthening supervision to prevent price manipulation, particularly regarding fortified and premium rice, while protecting both producers and consumers.

Economist: Do not rely solely on BI-Rate to respond to global cost of capital

Trimegah Sekuritas Indonesia Chief Economist Fakhrul Fulvian advises against using the BI-Rate as the sole tool to combat rising global capital costs. He suggests that allowing domestic bond yields to adjust naturally can act as a safeguard for the Rupiah against global volatility.

Signing of RBI Joint Decree: Minister of Home Affairs Promotes Empowerment of Women and Children in Regions

The Indonesian Minister of Home Affairs, Muhammad Tito Karnavian, has signed a Joint Decree (SKB) regarding 'Ruang Bersama Indonesia' (RBI) to strengthen the protection of women and children. This initiative aims to integrate various regional programmes into a collaborative platform to enhance human resource development across the country.

ASEAN Secretary-General Urges AI Benefits to Reach MSMEs and Smaller Nations

ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn has called for the widespread distribution of artificial intelligence benefits to ensure micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and smaller economies are not left behind. He emphasised that the success of ASEAN's economic transformation depends on preventing a digital divide through inclusive digital infrastructure and governance.

Antam: Mineral Downstreaming Drives Industry and Boosts Local Economy

PT Aneka Tambang Tbk (Antam) asserts that mineral downstreaming, when managed with environmental sustainability, is key to driving industrial growth and economic opportunities for the community. The company emphasises that processing raw minerals into high-value products creates longer domestic supply chains, attracts investment, and fosters technological advancement.

John Herdman's Promise for FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026

Indonesia national team head coach John Herdman has pledged that the squad will give their utmost effort during the upcoming FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026. Despite recent setbacks, the coach emphasised that while match results are unpredictable, the players are committed to maximum effort and focus.

MRT Jakarta prepares seven TOD projects for sustainable urban development

PT MRT Jakarta is preparing seven Transit Oriented Development (TOD) projects across six locations to promote sustainable urban growth. These initiatives, presented at an infrastructure forum in Tokyo, focus on property development and enhanced connectivity within the capital.

Board of Directors and Commissioners Unanimously Resign from Rp1 Issuer

Telecommunications company PT Mitra Komunikasi Nusantara Tbk (MKNT) has announced the simultaneous resignation of four key board members. The departures include the President Director, the President Commissioner, and two other officials, amidst the company's share price trading at the minimum level of Rp1.

YLKI Urges Parliament to Summon Pertamina and Ministry of Energy Over Fuel Queues in Makassar

The Indonesian Consumers Foundation (YLKI) has called on the House of Representatives to demand accountability from Pertamina Patra Niaga and the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources regarding fuel shortages in Makassar. The consumer watchdog warns that supply disruptions could trigger a domino effect across essential sectors, including transport, health, and food distribution.

Kudus Regency Government Distributes Rp2.57 Billion in Aid to 10 Political Parties

The Kudus Regency Government in Central Java has allocated Rp2.57 billion in financial assistance to ten political parties holding seats in the local parliament. The funds are intended to support political education for the public, with the Regent emphasising the importance of transparent accountability.

Shanghai Electric Secures First Overseas Heavy-Duty Gas Turbine Order for 500 MW Project in Malaysia

Shanghai Electric has successfully secured a contract for the Unit 3 of the Sarawak Samalaju Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) project in Malaysia. The deal includes a turnkey EPC solution and a 25-year long-term service agreement, marking a significant milestone for the company's heavy-duty gas turbine technology in the global market.

UPR Students Develop Natural-Based Cosmetic Innovation

Students from the University of Palangka Raya (UPR) have developed a functional cold powder cosmetic using activated tumih wood charcoal and putat leaf extract. The research, funded by the Ministry of Education, aims to utilise Central Kalimantan's local natural resources to create scientifically-backed skincare products.

AHY to Monitor Indonesian Slum Areas Using New Digital Dashboard System

The Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono, has introduced a new dashboard system designed to map and monitor slum area remediation across Indonesia. The platform aims to enhance transparency and accountability by allowing citizens to report on the progress of government projects directly.

Bali Regional House of Representatives Questions Transfer Funds Failing to Reach Target, Only Rp 88 Billion

The Democrat-NasDem faction of the Bali Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) has raised concerns regarding the significant shortfall in the 2026 regional budget transfer funds. The faction is seeking clarification on why realised funds reached only Rp 88 billion against a target of Rp 407 billion, alongside declining regional retribution rates.

Indonesian National Police Dispatch Three Vessels to Search for Sinking Virgo Ship

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) have deployed three police vessels to the Java Sea to assist in the search and rescue operations following the sinking of the Virgo Transport 8. A helicopter has also been deployed to aid in locating victims believed to be adrift at sea.

Firefighters Deploy 55 Personnel to Extinguish Land Fire in North Jakarta

Emergency services have deployed 55 personnel and 15 fire engines to tackle a land fire in the Ancol area of North Jakarta. The blaze, which broke out in a field of reeds, is currently being managed by authorities from North Jakarta and West Jakarta.

Pekanbaru Police Uncover 82 Narcotics Cases Over Five Months

The Pekanbaru City Police Narcotics Unit has successfully resolved 82 narcotics-related criminal cases, resulting in the arrest of 128 suspects between May and September 2026. Authorities also conducted a destruction ceremony for seized ecstasy pills and illegal vape cartridges to prevent further misuse.

South Kalimantan Provincial Government Builds Canalisation to Prevent Forest and Land Fires

The South Kalimantan provincial government is implementing canalisation projects in high-risk areas to maintain peatland moisture and mitigate forest and land fires. This strategic move aims to move beyond reactive measures towards long-term prevention through improved infrastructure and inter-agency coordination.

28 Million Social Media Accounts Blocked Following Indonesian Government Regulations

The Indonesian Ministry of Communication and Digital has reported that 28 million children's accounts have been restricted following the implementation of Government Regulation (PP) No. 17 of 2025. The regulation aims to enhance child protection on digital platforms, with significant enforcement actions taken by companies such as Roblox and TikTok.

South Jakarta Agencies Train Vocational Students to Become Young Entrepreneurs

The South Jakarta Industry, Trade, Cooperatives, Small and Medium Enterprises Agency, in collaboration with the Education Office, has launched a training programme for vocational school students. The initiative aims to foster financial independence and transform Gen Z students from job seekers into job creators within the creative economy.

Fuel Queues in Makassar Begin to Ease as Pertamina Adds Service Points

Pertamina Patra Niaga has implemented several measures to alleviate long queues at petrol stations in Makassar, including the deployment of modular fuel stations. The initiative, conducted in collaboration with the South Sulawesi Provincial Government, aims to stabilise fuel distribution and ensure supply availability.

13,000 Complaints Received as Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Exposes Alleged Mafia Practices

The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched a dedicated complaint channel to combat alleged fraudulent practices within the pilgrimage sector. With approximately 13,000 reports already received, the government aims to protect pilgrims and ensure transparency in an industry involving an estimated Rp120 trillion in turnover.

Market and Rupiah Outlook Amid Rising Oil Prices

Bank Mandiri and Trimegah Sekuritas predict potential weakness in the rupiah due to rising global oil prices and increasing U.S. Treasury yields. Despite these pressures, economists suggest that Indonesia's comprehensive policy toolkit and positive foreign capital inflows into government bonds may limit significant depreciation.

Following 6-Year Prison Sentence, Ade Kunang Kuswara Names Police Officer Allegedly Receiving Rp16 Billion Fee

The inactive Regent of Bekasi, Ade Kunang Kuswara, has alleged a political conspiracy following his six-year prison sentence for corruption. He has specifically named a police officer and a department head suspected of receiving bribes, while claiming the funds identified by the KPK were actually loans.

BSKDN: Accelerating Regional Economic Growth Must Be Data-Driven

The Agency for Domestic Policy Strategy (BSKDN) of the Ministry of Home Affairs has emphasised that regional economic acceleration must be based on precise data analysis. The agency aims to identify key economic levers across nine critical sectors to ensure targeted interventions that benefit the wider population.

Cassation Rejected, Lawyer Marcella Santoso Remains Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison

The Supreme Court has rejected the cassation appeal of lawyer Marcella Santoso, upholding her 15-year prison sentence for bribery related to the Crude Palm Oil (CPO) export case. The ruling confirms her conviction for bribery and money laundering involving a massive bribe intended to secure acquittals for several major corporations.

Rp195.2 Trillion in Regional Funds Idle in Banks, Purbaya: Spend it Immediately

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has urged regional governments to accelerate budget spending to prevent massive amounts of regional funds from remaining idle in banks. The Minister emphasised that such stagnant funds fail to stimulate local economies and promised central government support to ensure public services are not disrupted.

Prosecutors Reveal Money Laundering Scheme via 'Sang Pengadil' Film Production

Prosecutors have revealed that the production of the film 'Sang Pengadil' was used to launder illicit funds belonging to Zarof Ricar, a former Supreme Court official. The indictment alleges that the film's budget was used to disguise the origins of wealth obtained through criminal activities.

Volvo Intersection to be Closed Once Pasar Minggu Through Road is Completed

The Jakarta Highways Agency has confirmed that the Volvo intersection in Pejaten Timur will be closed once the Pasar Minggu through road project is finished. This initiative aims to eliminate level crossings to enhance the safety of KRL Commuter Line operations.

Indonesia Struggles to Process Rare 'Treasure' as Other Nations Lock Down Technology

Indonesia faces significant hurdles in processing Rare Earth Elements (REE) due to the complex technological requirements for separating 17 different elements. The Mineral Industry Agency (BIM) warns that developed nations are actively restricting access to both processing technologies and the essential chemical supply chains.

Home Affairs Minister: 24,000 Village Cooperatives Undergoing Verification; Non-Compliant Structures Must Be Repaired

The Indonesian government has initiated a verification and validation process for approximately 24,000 'Merah Putih' village cooperatives to ensure construction meets required specifications. Minister of Home Affairs Tito Karnavian emphasised that any buildings failing to meet standards must be repaired to ensure accountability in the use of public funds.

Addressing Forest Fire Impacts: Central Kalimantan Governor Distributes Masks and Expands Clean Water Access

Central Kalimantan Governor Agustiar Sabran has initiated a series of relief measures, including the distribution of masks and vitamins, to protect citizens from deteriorating air quality caused by forest and land fires. The provincial government is also expanding clean water distribution and increasing the construction of boreholes to support affected communities.

Merumatta Half Marathon Returns to Challenge Participants with the Natural Beauty of Senggigi and Malimbu

The third edition of the Merumatta Half Marathon is set to take place in Lombok in October 2026, aiming to boost local sport tourism. The event seeks to revitalise the Senggigi area and stimulate the local economy by involving regional MSMEs and hotels.

Basarnas searches for 129 victims of KM Virgo up to 2,600 nautical miles from coordinates

The National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) has expanded its search area to 2,600 nautical miles following the distress of the KM Virgo Transport 8 in the Java Sea. While 114 individuals have been accounted for, 129 people remain missing after the vessel encountered severe weather.

ASEAN Secretary-General Urges Diversification to Strengthen Economic Resilience

ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn has called on member states to bolster economic resilience through diversification and enhanced reserve capacities. Speaking at the ASEAN Think Tanks Summit in Jakarta, he emphasised the importance of securing regional interdependencies to withstand external shocks.

JCI Plummets 2% at the Start of Session 2

The Indonesia Composite Index (IHSG) experienced a significant decline of 2.02% during Monday's trading session, driven by heavy foreign selling and geopolitical tensions. Increased instability in the Middle East has raised concerns regarding global energy supplies, potentially impacting global inflation and monetary policy.

Carnival in Pekalongan Draws Scrutiny Over Alleged Satanic Rituals

The Simbang Kulon Night Carnival (SKNC) 2026 in Pekalongan has gone viral following allegations of satanic elements during the event. Local authorities are now coordinating with the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) to investigate the nature of the performances.

Iran's Economic Crisis: Decent Living Becomes a Nightmare Amid Sanctions and War

Iran is facing a severe economic downturn driven by hyperinflation, plummeting currency value, and intensified international sanctions. The combination of domestic mismanagement and geopolitical conflicts has pushed food inflation above 127%, making basic necessities unaffordable for many households.

Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah Urges Civil Servants to Pray for Five Missing Journalists in Sunda Strait

The Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak, has called upon civil servants to pray for five journalists and three crew members still missing in the Sunda Strait. The search operation, following an eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau, has entered its seventh day with authorities currently evaluating whether to extend the mission.

Trump Issues Stern Warning to Zelensky, Urges Cessation of Attacks on Russia

US President Donald Trump has urged President Volodymyr Zelensky to stop targeting Russian diesel infrastructure, citing the negative impact on global fuel supplies. The warning comes amid rising global energy prices and escalating drone warfare near the Ukrainian-Polish border.