Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 September 2026

Showing 151-200 of 1,551 articles

Suahasil Appointed Finance Minister, Economist: Do Not Only Focus on Reducing Deficit

Following Suahasil Nazara's appointment as Finance Minister, economists are urging the government to prioritise the quality of state spending over merely maintaining a deficit below 3 per cent. The focus remains on ensuring that fiscal management supports economic growth and essential public programmes without compromising long-term stability.

Basarnas: KM Balama GT 27 Lost Contact, Found Stranded in North Sulawesi

The National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) has confirmed that the vessel KM Balama GT 27, which lost contact in Central Sulawesi, has been located in North Sulawesi waters. All three crew members were successfully evacuated to land after being adrift at sea for three days.

Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland Agree on Desire for Independence from United Kingdom

The leaders of Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have signed a memorandum of understanding urging the UK government to prepare for constitutional change. The leaders expressed a shared commitment to independence and a desire to rebuild ties with the European Union following Brexit.

Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Opens Complaint Hotline to Uncover Mafia Practices; Nearly 13,000 Complaints Received

The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched a dedicated hotline to address allegations of mafia involvement in pilgrimage services. The initiative has seen a massive response, with nearly 13,000 reports submitted, prompting the government to initiate a re-verification process for approximately 3,000 active Umrah travel agencies.

Forest Fire Smoke Detected in IKN; Forestry Minister Orders Immediate Deployment

The Indonesian Minister of Forestry, Raja Juli Antoni, has ordered emergency personnel to tackle renewed forest and land fires near the Nusantara Capital City (IKN). The directive follows the detection of rising smoke plumes during an inspection of the Bukit Tengkorak area.

Supreme Court Rejects Marcella Santoso's Appeal, 15-Year Prison Sentence Remains Unchanged

The Supreme Court of Indonesia has rejected the cassation appeal filed by lawyer Marcella Santoso regarding her involvement in a crude palm oil (CPO) export corruption and money laundering case. The ruling upholds her 15-year prison sentence and significant financial penalties, including a requirement to pay Rp21.6 billion in restitution.

Defending Champion of Visually Impaired MTQ Category Threatened by Haze

The defending champion of the National Musabaqah Tilawatil Quran (MTQ) for the visually impaired faced significant travel disruptions due to prolonged haze in West Kalimantan. Despite flight delays caused by poor visibility, the participant from Pontianak successfully reached Semarang to compete in the XXXI National MTQ.

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Bima Arya Encourages Local Champions and Communities to Accelerate Slum Settlement Management

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Bima Arya Sugiarto has called for the empowerment of local champions and community-based initiatives to tackle slum settlements in Indonesia. He emphasised that grassroots approaches are often more effective than top-down bureaucratic mechanisms in achieving sustainable urban regeneration.

Pertamina explores upstream oil investments in Guyana, Suriname

Pertamina has commenced exploratory discussions regarding upstream oil and gas investments in Guyana and Suriname to diversify Indonesia's energy sources. This strategic move aims to reduce reliance on single-source imports and mitigate risks posed by geopolitical instability in regions such as the Strait of Hormuz.

Govt inks joint decree to boost women's empowerment, child protection

Three Indonesian ministries have signed a joint decree to strengthen the protection of women and children through a collaborative platform known as RBI. The initiative aims to integrate various regional programmes and ensure that local governments, including village administrations, prioritise human resource development and gender equality.

Three Companies in East Kalimantan Sanctioned Over Forest Fires

The Indonesian Minister of Forestry has announced the suspension of business licences for three companies in East Kalimantan following forest and land fires. The sanctions include mandatory ecosystem restoration and potential criminal prosecution for the corporations involved.

Maluku Regional Police Investigate Alleged Involvement of Officers in Drug Case

The Maluku Regional Police have launched an investigation into allegations that several officers are involved in narcotics abuse, following testimonies presented during a trial at the Ambon District Court. Regional Police Chief Inspector General Dadang Hartanto has ordered a thorough probe by the Internal Affairs Division to ensure accountability and uphold professional ethics.

Eradicating Rice Mafia: National Food Agency Head States Task Force is Monitoring 458 Locations

The Head of the National Food Agency (Bapanas) has announced that a dedicated task force is monitoring 4udem 458 points across Indonesia to combat rice price manipulation and ensure stability. The initiative involves coordinated efforts between the police, local governments, and Bulog to prevent hoarding and illegal distribution.

Pertamina NRE Establishes Bioethanol Development Centre in Lampung with 60 KL Capacity

Pertamina New & Renewable Energy (Pertamina NRE) has launched a pilot Bioethanol Development Centre in Lampung to test multi-feedstock and multi-generation production technologies. The facility aims to bolster Indonesia's national bioethanol ecosystem and support energy security through the utilisation of local resources such as sorghum.

Govt refines Giant Sea Wall master plan to curb Java coastal flooding

The Indonesian government is refining the master plan for a 575-kilometre Giant Sea Wall to combat coastal flooding and land subsidence across northern Java. The project will prioritise vulnerable areas such as Jakarta Bay, Semarang, and Demak, combining concrete dikes with nature-based solutions like mangrove restoration.

SAR Operation for Journalists Extends to the Indian Ocean

A joint Search and Rescue (SAR) team has expanded its search area towards the Indian Ocean to locate five journalists and three crew members missing in the Sunda Strait. The operation is currently navigating challenges including shifting sea currents, volcanic activity from Anak Krakatau, and heavy fog.

Boosting Energy Security: Pertamina NRE Launches Bioethanol Development Centre in Lampung

Pertamina New & Renewable Energy (Pertamina NRE) has officially commenced operations of its Bioethanol Development Centre in Lampung to bolster national green energy security. The facility utilises multi-feedstock and multi-generation technology to process various raw materials into bioethanol. The launch was marked by strategic partnerships involving the Lampung Provincial Government and Japanese automotive partners to promote a circular economy.

Indonesia's Second Largest EV Battery Factory Commences Operations in July 2026

The Indonesia Battery Corporation (IBC) has announced that the PT Contemporary Amperex Technology Indonesia Battery (CATIB) plant in Karawang has officially begun operations. This facility, a joint venture with China's CATL, is part of a massive integrated battery ecosystem aimed at establishing Indonesia as a global leader in EV production.

Maybank Indonesia becomes integrated group following takeover of three entities

PT Bank Maybank Indonesia Tbk has officially transitioned into an integrated financial group following the successful acquisition of Maybank Sekuritas Indonesia, Maybank Asset Management, and Etiqa Insurance Indonesia. This restructuring, approved by the Financial Services Authority (OJK), aims to provide a comprehensive financial ecosystem ranging from banking and investment to wealth management and insurance.

Highest in Indonesia, Pekanbaru Economic Growth Hits 7.39 Per Cent

Pekanbaru has recorded the highest economic growth in Indonesia at 7.39 per cent year-on-year for the second quarter of 2026. This figure significantly outperforms the national economic growth rate of 5.29 per cent during the same period.

Water Crisis Hits 12 Districts in Lamongan

A prolonged drought in Lamongan Regency, East Java, has triggered a severe water shortage affecting 26 villages across 12 districts. The local government, through the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), is actively distributing clean water via tankers to support thousands of affected families.

Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland Urge UK to Prepare for Change

The First Ministers of Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have signed a memorandum of understanding urging the UK government to prepare for potential constitutional changes. The leaders, all committed to independence or self-determination, expressed a shared vision for closer ties with the European Union following the economic impacts of Brexit.

Markets react calmly to Nazara’s appointment as Finance Minister

The appointment of Suahasil Nazara as Finance Minister has been met with stable and positive sentiment from financial markets, signalling a period of policy continuity. Analysts suggest that Nazara's previous experience as deputy finance minister provides reassurance regarding fiscal discipline and the stability of the state budget.

DPR Budget Committee: 2027 Disaster Management Budget Increases to Rp1.1 Trillion

The Indonesian House of Representatives' Budget Committee has announced that the disaster management budget for 2027 will rise significantly to Rp1.1 trillion from Rp494 billion in 2026. This increase follows instructions from President Prabowo Subianto to bolster disaster mitigation efforts due to Indonesia's geographical vulnerability.

Search for Missing Journalists in Sunda Strait Hindered by Thick Fog

Search and rescue operations for five journalists and three civilians lost in the Sunda Strait have been hampered by heavy fog and limited visibility. The joint SAR team has decided to extend the search operations for another three days following a lack of progress by the seventh day.

From Learning Spaces to Business Ecosystems: Solopreneurs Now Targeted for Growth

Bank Saqu, a digital banking service by Astra Financial and WeLab, has expanded its support for solopreneurs through the 'Solopreneur Society: The Founders Club'. The initiative aims to move beyond basic business education by providing access to networks, market opportunities, and financial solutions to help small business owners scale their operations.

Trump Boasts US Could Control Iranian Oil Like Venezuela

US President Donald Trump has claimed that the United States could potentially seize control of Iranian oil reserves, drawing parallels to the current US arrangement with Venezuela. This statement comes amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions and instability in global oil prices caused by conflicts in the Middle East.

Police Arrest Man in Menteng with 112.13 Grams of Crystal Meth

Authorities in Central Jakarta have apprehended a 48-year-old man following the discovery of over 112 grams of crystal methamphetamine. The Menteng Metro Police are currently investigating the case to identify potential accomplices within the drug trafficking network.

Transporting Fuel Through the Waves to the Sebatik Border

A specialised oil barge, the Cahaya Nunukan Mandiri, continues to navigate challenging maritime conditions to deliver essential fuel to the Sebatik border region. Operated by Pertamina Patra Niaga, the vessel plays a critical role in ensuring energy security for Indonesia's border areas near Malaysia.

Mount Ile Lewotolok Erupts Again Tonight

Mount Ile Lewotolok in Lembata Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, experienced an eruption on Monday night accompanied by moderate explosions. Authorities have issued warnings for residents and hikers to avoid the danger zones due to the risk of lava flows and volcanic ash.

Thousands of Hajj and Umrah Fraud Complaints Reported Daily, Ministry Opens Hotline

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched a dedicated hotline to combat widespread fraud within the pilgrimage sector. Deputy Minister Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak stated the move aims to dismantle 'mafia' networks and clean up the industry, which involves an annual circulation of nearly Rp120 trillion.

Legislator Urges Government to Maximise Search for KM Virgo Victims

Lola Nelria Oktavia, a member of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), has called on the government to intensify search efforts for those missing following the KM Virgo Transport 8 incident in the Java Sea. The legislator emphasised the need for inter-agency coordination and ensuring that the families of the 11 missing victims receive proper assistance and clear information.

Will Russia Become an Islamic State by 2100?

An analysis of Russian demographic trends suggests a significant decline in the ethnic Russian population alongside a rising Muslim population. The report highlights a potential civilisation crisis driven by shifting religious and ethnic proportions within the country.

Basarnas Extends Search for Missing Journalists and Crew in Sunda Strait

The National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) has extended its search operations for eight individuals missing in the waters of Carita, Banten. The group, consisting of five journalists, two crew members, and one guide, went missing while reporting on the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau.

Lintasarta Strengthens BPD Digital Transformation to Support National Economy

Lintasarta has announced its commitment to accelerating the digital transformation of Regional Development Banks (BPD) through the launch of the BPD Summit 2026. The initiative focuses on providing a sovereign, secure, and integrated digital foundation to enhance regional economic competitiveness.

Swiss-Belhotel Yogyakarta-Solo Area Distributes Social Assistance in Gilingan, Surakarta

Swiss-Belhotel International's Yogyakarta-Solo division has collaborated with the Surakarta City Government to distribute social aid to vulnerable women in the Gilingan area. This Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative aims to support local government social programmes and foster synergy between the private sector and the community.

Obama Reveals Plans Should He Run for President in 2028 Election

Former US President Barack Obama has indicated that the regulation of Artificial Intelligence would be a primary focus of his agenda if he seeks the presidency in 2028. He emphasised the need for oversight to prevent AI from widening social inequality and threatening job security.

KMIPN 2026 Showcases Digital Talent of Polytechnic Students Across Indonesia

The 8th National Polytechnic Informatics Student Competition (KMIPN) concluded in Makassar, bringing together students from across Indonesia to compete in eight digital technology categories. The event highlights the growing industrial demand for skilled digital talent capable of addressing complex technological challenges.

Social Services and Red Cross Distribute Logistics Aid to Jelambar Fire Victims

The West Jakarta Social Services Department and the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) have distributed essential food, clothing, and hygiene supplies to residents displaced by a fire in Jelambar. The aid includes staples such as rice, noodles, and water, alongside clothing and sanitation kits to support survivors currently staying in temporary shelters.

Current Condition of 352 Students Poisoned by Free Nutritious Meal Programme in Lombok: One Still Under Intensive Care

Hundreds of students in Central Lombok suffered food poisoning after consuming meals from the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. While most victims have been discharged, one student remains under intensive care due to severe dehydration, and local authorities are conducting laboratory tests to identify the cause.

Indonesia's DPD, KMOU discuss human resources for blue economy

The Speaker of the Indonesian Regional Representative Council (DPD), Sultan B. Najamudin, has met with a delegation from KMOU to discuss enhancing human resources within the maritime sector. The discussion focused on the necessity of developing highly skilled talent to leverage Indonesia's vast blue economy potential, including fisheries and carbon storage.

Indonesia's Fiscal Policy Faces Test Under New Finance Minister

The appointment of Suahasil Nazara as Indonesia's new Finance Minister has been met with market stability, as analysts anticipate policy continuity. The new minister faces the immediate challenge of managing the 2026 State Budget deficit and ensuring the credibility of the 2027 Draft State Budget through disciplined fiscal management.

Former Islamic Boarding School Administrator Named Suspect in Rape of Alumna

Police in Sleman have officially named a former administrator of the Ash-Sholihah Islamic boarding school as a suspect in a sexual violence case involving a former student. The suspect is currently being pursued by authorities after fleeing his residence following the initial police report.

JAMA Study: Alternative Tobacco Products Should Be Considered for Smoking Cessation

A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) suggests that healthcare professionals should include alternative tobacco products in discussions to help adult smokers quit. The research emphasises a risk-based approach, highlighting that transitioning from combustible cigarettes to alternatives like vapes or heated tobacco may reduce health risks.

Ministry of Religious Affairs asserts no additional fees for marriage services

The Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs has clarified that marriage services conducted at KUA offices during working hours are free of charge. The Ministry warned against fraudulent schemes where individuals request extra payments via QRIS, emphasising that the only official fee is Rp600,000 for ceremonies held outside office hours or locations.

Lintasarta Introduces Bandwidth on Demand for Banking Digital Infrastructure

Lintasarta has launched its Bandwidth on Demand (BWoD) solution, designed to provide banks with flexible and scalable digital infrastructure. The solution allows financial institutions to adjust bandwidth capacity autonomously to meet fluctuating operational demands such as month-end processing and disaster recovery.

Metro Jaya Police Equip Students with Digital Protection in the AI Era

The Metro Jaya Regional Police, in collaboration with Binus University, has launched a training programme to educate students on the safe use of Artificial Intelligence. The initiative aims to prepare young people to navigate digital risks such as deepfakes, hoaxes, and cyber fraud.

KPU RI Socialises Sustainable Voter Education for West Sumatra Residents

The Indonesian General Elections Commission (KPU RI) has launched a sustainable voter education programme in Bukittinggi, West Sumatra, to boost democratic literacy. The initiative aims to address low voter turnout rates in the region by targeting first-time voters, women, and marginalised groups.

Maluku Regional Police Strengthen Preparedness to Face Potential Contingencies

The Maluku Regional Police are enhancing their City Security System (Sispam Kota) to anticipate potential emergency situations that could disrupt public order. Regional Police Chief Inspector General Dadang Hartanto emphasised that preparedness must be established through proactive coordination and communication before crises occur.

Economist: Risk of Foreign Debt Maturity Shortening

Economist Yusuf Rendy Manilet from CORE has warned of increasing risks regarding Indonesia's short-term foreign debt maturity. While the debt-to-GDP ratio remains stable, the ratio of short-term debt to foreign exchange reserves has risen significantly, potentially impacting the Rupiah's stability.