Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 1 September 2026

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SCO Leaders Adopt Bishkek Declaration and Expand Cooperation

Leaders of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) have adopted the Bishkek Declaration, outlining plans to deepen cooperation in security, trade, and technology. The summit, attended by major leaders including Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin, also emphasised the pursuit of a multipolar world order and global governance reform.

ITDC Optimistic MotoGP Mandalika 2026 Will Boost Tourist Arrivals and Drive National Economy

ITDC is implementing an integrated tourism ecosystem through bundled travel packages for the 2026 Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia. This strategic collaboration aims to maximise tourism spending and extend visitor stays in Mandalika and Lombok by integrating transport, accommodation, and logistics.

Hundreds of Students Hospitalised Following Alleged Food Poisoning

Hundreds of students from the Manbaul Hikam Islamic Boarding School in Sidoarjo were rushed to hospital after allegedly suffering food poisoning. The incident occurred after the students consumed meals provided under the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme.

Syngenta launches innovation to combat thrips attacks on chilli crops

PT Syngenta Indonesia has introduced a new insecticide technology, Simodis, to help horticultural farmers manage thrips infestations in chilli crops. The initiative aims to protect productivity and crop quality against pests and unpredictable weather patterns like El Niño.

State-Owned Enterprise Agency Supports Telkomsel in Strengthening AI-Based Business

The Head of the State-Owned Enterprise (BUMN) Agency, Dony Oskaria, has expressed support for Telkomsel's strategic shift towards artificial intelligence. This move aims to transform the telecommunications provider from a connectivity service provider into a key player within the AI-driven digital economy ecosystem.

MPR: Constitutional Archives Exhibition Reveals the Nation's Journey Since Independence

The Speaker of the MPR, Ahmad Muzani, officially opened the Constitutional Archives Exhibition in Jakarta, highlighting the historical evolution of Indonesia's state institutions. The exhibition, a collaboration with the National Archives of Indonesia, showcases the nation's democratic development and the foundational efforts of its founding fathers.

Transport Minister: 35 Foreign Aircraft Permits Issued to Strengthen Kalimantan Forest Fire Response

The Indonesian Ministry of Transport has authorised the use of 35 foreign-registered aircraft to assist in combating forest and land fires in Kalimantan. These aircraft, primarily helicopters, have been brought in by the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) to supplement domestic firefighting capabilities.

Jakarta Provincial Government Distributes Rp 48 Billion in Capital Assistance to 167 Kramat Jati Market Traders

The Jakarta Provincial Government, through Bank Jakarta, has disbursed Rp 48 billion in credit to 167 traders at the Kramat Jati Wholesale Market. The initiative aims to provide micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with essential working capital to ensure business sustainability and growth.

Forest Fires Near Zamrud National Park Extinguished After Seven Days, Suppression Operation Ends

The firefighting operation to combat forest and land fires near Zamrud National Park and the Giam Siak Kecil Biosphere Reserve has officially concluded. Authorities have successfully extinguished and cooled approximately 30 hectares of affected land, with intensified patrols planned to prevent future outbreaks.

Pertamax Green price rises to Rp19,150 per litre from 2 September

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has announced a price adjustment for its non-subsidised Pertamax Green 95 fuel, increasing it from Rp16,600 to Rp19,150 per litre. This follows previous price hikes for other non-subsidised fuels such as Dexlite and Pertamax Turbo.

BPBD: Forest and Land Fires in West Aceh Expand to 6.5 Hectares Across Three Districts

Forest and land fires in West Aceh have spread to cover 6.5 hectares across three different districts. Local disaster management authorities are working alongside the military and police to contain the flames despite significant challenges regarding water availability and difficult terrain.

Chinese Investors Interested in Oyster Farming in Banyuwangi

MATA Ecology, a Chinese firm specialising in oyster cultivation, has expressed interest in establishing a sustainable 'blue industry' project in Banyuwangi, East Java. The proposed investment aims to integrate environmental sustainability with local community involvement, covering everything from cultivation to downstream product processing.

Government Urged to Scrutinise Implementation of 10 Per Cent Participating Interest in Tangguh Block Management

The Chairman of Committee III of the DPD RI has called for a comprehensive audit regarding the extension of the Tangguh Block Production Sharing Contract until 2055. The scrutiny aims to ensure the transparent implementation of the 10 per cent Participating Interest (PI) for West Papua and to verify the legal and fiscal implications of the contract extension.

BPS: Gorontalo Exports Supported by Wood Pellets and Fishery Products

The Gorontalo Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) has reported that wood pellets and various fishery products are driving the province's export performance. While monthly export values saw a recent dip, the cumulative export value for January-July 2026 has increased by 17.74 per cent compared to the previous year.

Driven by 2026 Gen Z Preference Trends, Local Fragrance Industry Could Dominate Domestic Market

The local fragrance industry is poised for significant growth as brands adapt to the evolving lifestyle preferences of Generation Z. PT Citra Alam Aromindo's Bizarre Parfum has been recognised at the Marketeers Youth Choice Award 2026, highlighting the importance of integrated marketing and supply chain collaboration in capturing the youth market.

KPK assesses independent tracks in state universities as most prone to irregularities

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has identified the independent admission track in state universities as the highest risk area for corruption. This follows recent investigations into bribery involving high-ranking officials at Unsoed regarding student admissions.

Abundance of Shallots and Tomatoes Resists Inflation in West Java for August 2026

West Java's monthly inflation rate was held at 0.21 per cent in August 2026, supported by a surplus in shallot and tomato supplies. Despite price pressures from rice and chicken due to the dry season, the province's annual inflation remains stable at 3.13 per cent.

Economist: DSI Data Integration is Strategic for Strengthening Trade Visibility

An economist from Gadjah Mada University highlights that integrating export data through PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) is crucial for enhancing trade transparency amidst global uncertainty. While visibility is key, the expert emphasises that improving product competitiveness and global trade agreements is equally essential to boost Indonesian exports.

Farmers' terms of trade reaches 129.19 in August 2026: BPS

Indonesia's national farmers' terms of trade increased by 1.05 per cent in August to 129.19, indicating that prices received by farmers grew faster than their costs. While food crops and plantation crops saw significant gains, the horticulture subsector experienced a decline due to falling prices for shallots, tomatoes, and cabbage.

Bali Provincial Government Partners with Content Creators to Educate on Conservation Areas

The Bali Provincial Government is collaborating with content creators to promote awareness of regulations within marine conservation areas. This initiative aims to replace less effective traditional methods, such as brochures, with social media engagement to protect local marine ecosystems.

Whoosh passengers rise by 8% as West Java air cargo surges

The West Java Central Bureau of Statistics reported an 8.02% month-on-month increase in Whoosh high-speed train passengers for July 2026. This growth coincided with a massive 91.77% surge in international air cargo, driven by new direct flight routes to Kuala Lumpur.

North Sumatra Governor: Accelerate Evacuation of Residents in Mount Sinabung Danger Zone

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution has ordered the immediate evacuation of residents in the high-risk zones of Mount Sinabung following its status upgrade to Level III (Alert). The provincial government is coordinating with local authorities and security forces to ensure logistics and facilities at evacuation centres are adequately prepared.

Bulog distributes 1,321 tonnes of rice and cooking oil to NTT earthquake victims

State-owned enterprise Perum Bulog has distributed over 1,321 tonnes of rice and 7,000 litres of cooking oil to assist communities affected by earthquakes in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). The aid, which includes government rice reserves and regional food assistance, aims to ensure food security in the disaster-stricken regencies.

Prabowo Summons TNI Commander and National Police Chief to Discuss National Situation and Forest Fires

President Prabowo Subianto held a high-level meeting with the Commander of the TNI and the Chief of National Police to review the current national situation. The discussions specifically focused on the management and prevention of forest and land fires across Sumatra and Kalimantan.

West Java domestic tourism trips hit 130 million, dominated by Bodebek and Bandung Raya

Domestic tourism in West Java reached 130.98 million trips between January and July 2026, marking a 4.90 per cent growth compared to the previous year. The Bodebek and Bandung Raya regions remain the primary drivers of this movement, accounting for over 52 per cent of total visits.

Expansion of Asset Forfeiture Bill: Observers Warn of Misuse Risks

Legal expert Hardjuno Wiwoho has cautioned that the proposed expansion of the Asset Forfeiture Bill to cover 13 types of crimes must be accompanied by strict due process to prevent political weaponisation. While the DPR has promised non-discriminatory enforcement, concerns remain regarding transparency and the potential for criminalising ordinary citizens.

Doctor: Poor Air Quality Can Increase Lung Cancer Risk

A lung specialist has warned that deteriorating air quality significantly increases the risk of lung cancer, particularly for non-smokers exposed to environmental pollutants. The expert emphasised the need for the public to reduce outdoor activities during periods of high pollution and to avoid secondhand smoke.

Bank Indonesia Balikpapan to host Mahligai Nusantara to boost MSMEs

Bank Indonesia Balikpapan will organise the Mahligai Nusantara 2026 event from 11–13 September to empower micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through digitalisation and innovation. The initiative aims to strengthen the MSME ecosystem by enhancing product quality, market access, and digital payment adoption via QRIS.

After Reaching the Academic Peak of a Diploma, What Comes Next?

The article examines the shifting social contract in Indonesia, where higher education was traditionally seen as a guaranteed path to prosperity. It highlights the growing disconnect between rising educational attainment and the evolving demands of the modern labour market.

Ministry of Housing: TOD Housing Reduces Carbon Emissions from Private Vehicles

The Ministry of Housing and Residential Areas has highlighted that Transit Oriented Development (TOD) housing can significantly lower carbon emissions by reducing reliance on private vehicles. The Ministry is also working to expand access to affordable housing for low-income communities through streamlined licensing and financing.

Indonesia closes Mount Tambora hiking routes over forest fire threat

Authorities have temporarily suspended hiking activities on Mount Tambora due to the increased risk of forest fires during the dry season. The closure aims to minimise human activity in vulnerable areas and allow park rangers to focus on fire monitoring and disaster mitigation.

Witnesses Describe Discovery of Body in LRT Pancoran Electrical Substation: Blood and Foul Odour Detected

An unidentified man's body was discovered inside an electrical substation near the Pancoran LRT station in South Jakarta. Police suspect the victim was attempting to steal cables and was electrocuted by high-voltage currents.

Karo Regency Ensures Basic Needs of Mount Sinabung Evacuees are Met

The Karo Regency government in North Sumatra has pledged to ensure that all essential supplies, including food and clean water, are provided to those displaced by Mount Sinabung's eruptions. Local authorities are actively monitoring evacuation centres to provide continuous support during the emergency response period.

House of Representatives Highlights Phenomenon of KDKMP Debt Repayments Despite Unreleased Capital

Zulfikar Hamonangan, a member of Commission VI of the House of Representatives, has raised concerns regarding Red and White Village/Sub-district Cooperatives (KDKMP) that are already repaying debts using Village Funds despite not yet receiving operational capital. He urged the Ministry of Cooperatives to resolve this issue and suggested that cooperatives should act as aggregators for local agricultural products rather than mere retailers.

Things to Consider Before Buying Flight Tickets for 2027 Holidays

Cathay Pacific has launched its AnniFAREsary programme to celebrate 80 years of operation, offering flight discounts to various global destinations with travel periods extending into 2027. The promotion includes significant fare reductions for specific routes and additional rewards through the Asia Miles scheme.

Bogor opens 10-kilometre road towards eastern regional growth centre

The Bogor Regency Government has announced the construction of a new 10-kilometre road connecting Jalan Transyogi to Sukaresmi Village to stimulate economic growth in the eastern region. The project is scheduled to commence in 2025 and is expected to be completed by 2026 as part of a broader strategy for regional development.

482 Mataram Residents Removed from PKH List: Social Services Department: Now Prosperous

The Mataram City Government has removed 482 residents from the Family Hope Program (PKH) list as they have been deemed economically independent. These individuals have been transitioned through business assistance programmes, including capital and goods, to support their self-sufficiency.

Accessibility Becomes a Crucial Factor in New Township Development

Paramount Land's Paramount Petals project has received the 'The Most Excellent New Township with Great Accessibility' award at the 2026 Indonesia Property & Bank Awards. The development emphasises integrated infrastructure, including direct access to the Jakarta–Merak toll road, to support connectivity in the Tangerang Raya area.

House speaker pushes for inter-ministerial response to wildfires

The Speaker of the House, Puan Maharani, has called for coordinated action across various ministries to address the escalating wildfire crisis in Indonesia. The fires, driven by the El Niño phenomenon, are impacting health and education, prompting the Central Kalimantan provincial government to declare a state of emergency.

Transport Minister: Railway Network Development Included in 2027 Budget

The Indonesian Minister of Transport has announced that the 2027 budget will prioritise the expansion of the national railway network to enhance connectivity. The budget allocation has been increased to Rp32.93 trillion, with a specific focus on safety and electrification projects in Java.

KPAI Confirms Children Detained During 27 August Protests Have Been Released

The Indonesian Commission for Child Protection (KPAI) has confirmed that all 160 children detained by police during the 27 August demonstrations have been returned to their homes. KPAI officials monitored the legal proceedings to ensure children's rights were upheld and expressed deep concern regarding the mobilisation of minors for political agendas.

Government Paying Close Attention to Eight Indonesians Allegedly Serving in Russian Military

The Indonesian government is currently verifying reports from Ukrainian intelligence regarding eight Indonesian citizens allegedly recruited into the Russian military. Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Correctional Affairs, Yusril Ihza Mahendra, stated that the government will assess whether these individuals are victims of exploitation or subject to loss of citizenship.

Barantin implements "pre-border" system to control fish import risks

The Indonesian Quarantine Agency (Barantin) has introduced a pre-border quarantine measure to manage risks at the country of origin before commodities enter Indonesia. This initiative aims to enhance biosecurity and improve the efficiency of fish and fishery product imports by reducing logistical delays and inspection bottlenecks.

Farmers' terms of trade reaches 129.19 in August 2026 : BPS

Indonesia's Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) reported that the farmers' terms of trade rose to 129.19 in August 2026, driven by higher prices for unhusked rice, palm oil, and rubber. While food crops and plantation sectors saw gains, the horticulture subsector experienced a decline due to falling prices for shallots, tomatoes, and cabbage.

BLU Scheme Deemed Risky to Increasing Bureaucratic Burden in Energy Sector Governance

Experts have raised concerns that the proposed implementation of the Public Service Agency (BLU) scheme in the energy sector could create additional layers of bureaucracy. There are fears that this move might increase government intervention and distort market competition, potentially undermining investment attractiveness.

Agriculture Minister requests additional Rp5 trillion budget to strengthen plantations

Minister of Agriculture Andi Amran Sulaiman has proposed an additional Rp5 trillion budget for 2027 to bolster strategic plantation commodities. The funding aims to secure industrial raw material supplies, enhance farmer welfare, and increase national export competitiveness.

KPK suspects Bengkulu City Council member Vinna Ledy of receiving PUPR project funds

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating Bengkulu City Council member Vinna Ledy Anggraheni over allegations of receiving bribes related to public works projects. The investigation follows a series of raids and the seizure of significant assets, including cash and property, as part of a broader corruption probe in the region.

Astra International (ASII) Realises Rp 12 Trillion in Investment as of June 2026

PT Astra International Tbk has deployed approximately Rp 12 trillion in investments up to June 2026, primarily driven by the acquisition of the Arafura Surya Alam gold mine. Despite a decline in net profit, the company is refocusing its capital allocation on its core automotive, financial services, and mining equipment sectors.

Observer: Expansion of Asset Forfeiture Bill Scope Must Be Handled with Caution

Legal and development observer Hardjuno Wiwoho has warned that expanding the scope of the Asset Forfeiture Bill to 13 types of crime requires strict adherence to due process of law. He emphasised that the legislation must focus on high-level crimes involving significant state losses to prevent the law from being used as a political tool.

Governor ensures maximum handling of Sinabung refugees

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Afif Nasution has overseen the evacuation of 280 residents from Karo Regency following increased volcanic activity at Mount Sinabung. The provincial government is working to ensure that basic necessities, including food, clean water, and medical support, are adequately provided to those in displacement camps.