Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 1 September 2026

Showing 601-650 of 1,567 articles

JCI Closes Higher Amid Stability of Domestic Economic Data

The Indonesia Composite Index (JCI) rose by 1.14 per cent on Tuesday, supported by positive sentiment regarding the government's fiscal credibility and stable inflation rates. Despite a slight contraction in the manufacturing sector, the overall market outlook remains bolstered by a strong trade surplus and solid budget realisations.

Free Health Check Program Provides Opportunity for South Jakarta Residents

The Free Health Check (CKG) programme is providing South Jakarta residents with easy access to essential medical services, including X-rays and blood sugar tests. The South Jakarta City Government aims to have approximately 650,000 residents undergo these integrated health screenings, including tuberculosis checks, throughout 2026.

Central Java continues to mature preparations to host National MTQ

The Central Java Provincial Government is intensifying preparations to host the 31st National Musabaqah Tilawatil Quran (MTQ) in Semarang in September 2026. Preparations for venues, including the main arena at Simpang Lima, are currently 80 per cent complete, with logistics and health services being finalised to accommodate an estimated 7,000 participants.

Ministry of Transportation Budget Ceiling Set at Rp32.9 Trillion, Safety Programme Receives Rp10.99 Trillion

The Indonesian Ministry of Transportation has been allocated a budget ceiling of Rp32.93 trillion for its 2027 programmes, with a significant portion dedicated to transport safety. Minister Dudy Purwagandhi emphasised that safety remains the top priority, allocating over 33% of the budget to safety support initiatives.

Puan urges thorough probe into man's death amid Jakarta unrest

The Speaker of the House, Puan Maharani, has called for a comprehensive police investigation into the death of a man following recent demonstrations in Jakarta. Amid allegations involving the GRIB Jaya organisation, the DPR speaker emphasised that law enforcement must establish the facts through evidence-based procedures.

BBRI Surges 4% as Foreign Investors Purchase Rp841 Billion

Shares of PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk rose by 4% to reach 3,380, driven by significant net foreign buying of Rp841 billion. The surge follows the announcement of impressive first-half 2026 financial results, featuring a 17.46% year-on-year profit growth and improved credit quality.

Acute Respiratory Infection cases in West Aceh rise due to exposure to forest and land fire smoke

The number of Acute Respiratory Infection (ISPA) cases in West Aceh has seen a significant upward trend over the last three months. This surge is attributed to the impact of ongoing forest and land fires in the region, prompting local health centres to expand medical facilities.

KLH States 32 Cases Involving Major Forest Fire Companies Unresolved for 2023-2025

The Ministry of Environment (KLH) has revealed that 32 legal cases involving forest and land fires between 2023 and 2025 remain unresolved, with potential environmental damages estimated at Rp5.30 trillion. Authorities are currently conducting oversight on 19 companies across seven provinces suspected of involvement in these fires.

OJK Reveals Operations of Mineral and Strategic Commodity Exchange Await Presidential Regulation

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) is awaiting a Presidential Regulation to officially operationalise the Mineral and Strategic Commodity Exchange (BMKS). The regulation is essential to define the specific types of minerals and commodities to be traded and to facilitate the transfer of authority from Bappebti.

National Nutrition Agency mandates mandatory working hours for kitchen heads in Free Nutritious Meal programme

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has established mandatory working shifts for heads of Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) to oversee the production of the Free Nutritious Meal programme. These shifts are designed to ensure food quality, hygiene, and accountability in the management of state funds.

Mount Ungaran Geothermal Project Faces Opposition; Regional Council Promises to Consult Ministry of Energy

The Central Java Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) plans to meet with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources to clarify details regarding the Mount Ungaran geothermal project. The move follows growing local opposition over environmental concerns regarding the proposed development.

Ministry of Cooperatives explains delay in appointing KDKMP managers

The Indonesian Ministry of Cooperatives has clarified why the appointment of managers for the Merah Putih Village/Sub-district Cooperatives (KDKMP) has been delayed. The delay is attributed to the need to match candidates with their respective home regions and the ongoing finalisation of the Presidential Regulation governing the programme.

Youth Reminded to Act as Guardians of Democracy and Drivers of the Nation

PKS Secretary General Muhammad Kholid and Treasurer General Noerhadi praised the success of the 81st Indonesian Independence Day celebrations organised by the party. The events, which included various community activities, were highlighted as a demonstration of creativity and low-budget, high-impact organisational capability.

Dr Icha's Family Hopes Three Regional Council Members Named Suspects in Intimidation Case Will Be Detained

The family of the late Dr Eliza Princila Utami Pakaenoni is calling on the East Nusa Tenggara Regional Police to detain three regional council members accused of intimidation. Legal counsel for the family argues that detention is necessary to prevent the destruction of evidence and ensure a fair investigation.

Israeli Settlers Fail to Burn Mosque in Nablus, Ending in Racism-Slogan Vandalism

Israeli settlers attempted to set fire to a mosque in Beita, northwest of Nablus, but were unsuccessful after failing to breach the building's doors. The incident resulted in the vandalism of nearby structures with racist slogans, prompting condemnation from Palestinian religious authorities.

Indonesian Soldier Suspected of Recruitment Fraud Flees with Rp18 Million

A member of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) is currently being sought by military police after allegedly defrauding a citizen of Rp18.35 million. The soldier, identified as Sertu LM, reportedly promised to guarantee the success of a recruitment candidate before disappearing without leave.

KPK Has Utilised Rp1.033 Trillion of 2026 Budget, Allocating Rp128.9 Billion for Corruption Prevention and Enforcement

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has reported a budget realisation of Rp1.033 trillion as of 26 August 2026. This figure represents 73.4 per cent of its total annual budget, with specific allocations detailed for prevention, enforcement, and management support.

Formalin Scandal in Chinese Cabbage: Authorities Launch Thorough Investigation

Chinese authorities have launched an intensive investigation following reports of formalin being used to preserve cabbage for human consumption. The move comes after viral footage surfaced showing individuals dipping vegetables in chemical solutions, sparking significant food safety concerns in the world's largest cabbage producer.

KPK Proposes Rp 774 Billion Budget Increase for 2027 During DPR Commission III Meeting

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has requested an additional budget of Rp 774.31 billion for the 2027 fiscal year to bolster anti-corruption efforts. KPK Chairman Setyo Budiyanto warned that current budget reductions threaten the agency's ability to perform prevention, monitoring, and supervision functions effectively.

Police Reveal Reason Mother Abandoned Baby in Semin: Unable to Afford Care

Police have identified a 34-year-old woman as the person responsible for abandoning her third child in a neighbour's yard in Gunungkidul. The suspect confessed to the act, citing financial hardship and her husband's brain injury following a fall from a tree as primary motives.

Supporting Digital Talent Development Towards Golden Indonesia 2045, Sinar Mas Land Provides Undergraduate Scholarships at Monash

Sinar Mas Land, through its Digital Hub, has announced a scholarship fund of IDR 1.2 billion for undergraduate students studying Digital Business and Information Technology at Monash University, Indonesia. This initiative aims to address Indonesia's projected need for 3 million digital talents by 2030 to support national digital transformation.

Police Law Continues to be Challenged in Constitutional Court; Government States Academic Papers Were Officially Prepared and Open

The Indonesian government has defended the legislative process of the amended Police Law during a Constitutional Court hearing, refuting claims of procedural flaws. Officials asserted that the drafting process followed formal stages and that academic papers were made accessible to the public.

Deputy Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Inaugurates BUMI Coal Downstreaming Project Groundbreaking

The Deputy Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources has officially launched the groundbreaking for a coal gasification project in East Kalimantan, aimed at converting low-caloric coal into methanol. The project, developed by PT Bumi Etam Chemical, seeks to reduce Indonesia's heavy reliance on petrochemical imports and bolster national energy security.

Hotel Occupancy Rates in Jakarta Increased in July 2026

The Jakarta Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) reported a monthly increase in hotel occupancy rates across both star-rated and non-star-rated accommodations in July 2026. This growth was largely driven by various events held in the capital city during the month.

Dasco Confirms Asset Forfeiture Bill Targets Corruptors' Wealth

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, has confirmed that the proposed Asset Forfeiture Bill aims to seize wealth linked to corruption. He noted that the draft is currently undergoing refinements to align with the newly enacted Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code.

Xiaomi 18 Fold Leaks: Foldable Smartphone Featuring 16GB RAM

Leaked details suggest Xiaomi is preparing its next-generation flagship, the Xiaomi 18 Fold, which is expected to feature a massive 16GB of RAM. The device aims to set a new standard for premium foldable phones, focusing on high-level multitasking and advanced hardware durability.

Rp 48 Billion in Financing Flowing to Market Traders, Rano: Must be Followed by Financial Literacy

Bank Jakarta has facilitated mass credit agreements for 100 traders at the Kramat Jati Wholesale Market, providing access to funds up to Rp 500 million. Deputy Governor Rano Karno emphasised that such capital injections must be accompanied by financial literacy to ensure sustainable business growth.

KPK Chair Addresses Possibility of Summoning Bogor Regent: There Are Stages

The Chairman of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), Setyo Budiyanto, has stated that the summoning of Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto depends on the ongoing investigation stages. The KPK is currently investigating alleged corruption involving the misappropriation of employee incentives and procurement irregularities within the Bogor Regency Government.

Banten Regional Police Dismantle Pickup Truck Theft Syndicate, Seize 11 Vehicles

The Banten Regional Police have successfully uncovered a criminal syndicate specialising in the theft of pickup trucks, resulting in the arrest of four suspects. Authorities recovered 11 stolen vehicles and various tools used in the crimes, while one suspect remains at large.

Bengkulu Provincial Government to Warn Companies Neglecting Forest and Land Fire Prevention

The Bengkulu Provincial Government has announced plans to issue formal warnings to plantation companies that fail to implement effective early detection and prevention measures for forest and land fires. This move follows the detection of 1,350 hotspots across the province between January and late August.

BKPM and IWIP Promote Inclusive Partnerships

The Indonesian Ministry of Investment/BKPM and PT Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park (IWIP) have launched an initiative to strengthen partnerships between large-scale industries and local MSMEs in North Maluku. The programme aims to integrate local businesses into the industrial supply chain to enhance their competitiveness and market access.

Six Houses Set Ablaze in Cileungsi, Bogor; One Person Faints

A significant fire broke out in Dayeuh Village, Cileungsi, Bogor, destroying six residential properties and two motorcycles. One resident reportedly lost consciousness due to the distress of seeing their home engulfed in flames.

New Purbaya Disaster Detection System: Preventing Local Government Economic Devastation

The Indonesian Ministry of Finance, in collaboration with UNDRR and ITB, has launched the ARISE system to monitor the economic and fiscal impacts of disasters on regional governments. The initiative aims to shift the focus from post-disaster response to proactive pre-disaster planning and risk management.

Video: Beyond Returns, These are the Considerations for Sharia Insurance Entering Gold ETFs

The Chairman of the Indonesian Sharia Insurance Association (AASI) discusses the potential of physical gold-based Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) as a diversification tool. He highlights that insurance companies are currently weighing several factors, including returns, business risks, and Sharia compliance, before committing significant assets to this instrument.

Kerinci Seblat National Park Closes Mount Kerinci Climbing Routes to Prevent Forest Fires

The Kerinci Seblat National Park Authority (BBTNKS) has announced the temporary closure of all climbing routes on Mount Kerinci to mitigate the risk of forest and land fires. This decision follows a directive from the Minister of Forestry to protect nine national parks across Indonesia from seasonal fire threats.

Ministry of Human Rights Inaugurates 497 Contract-Based Government Employees to Strengthen Human Rights Services

The Indonesian Ministry of Human Rights has officially inaugurated 497 Government Employees with Work Agreements (PPPK) to bolster the capacity of state apparatus in providing human rights protection. Secretary General Novita Ilmaris emphasised the need for professionalism and integrity, noting that the ministry will implement competency development programmes to help new staff adapt to their roles.

Japan and US Agree on Continued Coordination to Ensure Yen Stability

Japanese Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama and US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent have reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing coordination to manage yen exchange rate volatility. The meeting, held during the G20 gathering in North Carolina, emphasised the importance of joint interventions to maintain global financial stability.

West Kalimantan Forest Fire Operations Hindered by Low Visibility and Water Scarcity

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has reported significant challenges in managing forest and land fires in West Kalimantan, including low visibility and limited water resources. Despite these obstacles, ground and air operations have successfully extinguished fires across several regencies, covering a substantial area.

Uniforms Destroyed: Children Affected by Gambir Fire Permitted to Attend School in Casual Clothes

A massive fire in Central Jakarta has destroyed 114 homes, leaving hundreds of residents displaced. In response to the loss of school supplies and uniforms, local schools have granted dispensations to allow affected students to attend classes in casual attire.

Bhutanese Matsutake Mushrooms: A 'Hidden Treasure' Coveted by the Japanese Market

Bhutanese Matsutake mushrooms are becoming a highly sought-after export to Japan due to their high quality and significantly lower price compared to Japanese varieties. While local Bhutanese demand remains low, high-end Japanese restaurants and Michelin-starred establishments are increasingly utilising these mushrooms as a cost-effective alternative.

Police Bust Fake Engine Oil Factory in West Jakarta, Used Oil Processed to Appear New

West Jakarta police have dismantled an illegal operation in Cengkareng that processed used engine oil into counterfeit products. The suspects used chemical additives to clear the colour of old oil and applied authentic-looking labels to deceive consumers.

South Sumatra Regional Police Educate Residents and Distribute Social Aid Door-to-Door to Prevent Forest Fires

The South Sumatra Regional Police have launched a door-to-door initiative in Muara Enim to raise awareness about preventing forest and land fires. Alongside educational efforts, the programme includes the distribution of social assistance to elderly residents to foster community engagement and environmental responsibility.

Singapore Sends Humanitarian Aid for Himalayan Flash Flood Victims

The Singaporean government has announced the deployment of police personnel and humanitarian aid to Nepal to assist in the aftermath of devastating flash floods and landslides. The mission includes specialists in Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) to support local authorities in managing the rising death toll.

Indonesians in Russian army initially applied as guards: House

The Indonesian House of Representatives has revealed that citizens recruited into the Russian military may have originally applied for civilian security roles. The government is currently investigating whether these individuals were victims of deceptive recruitment or human trafficking schemes orchestrated by third-party intermediaries.

Bahlil Reveals Indonesian Oil and Gas Facilities Nearly Fell Victim to Forest Fires

The Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Bahlil Lahadalia, has disclosed that forest and land fires recently threatened vital oil and gas infrastructure in West Papua. SKK Migas has subsequently raised its alert status to level one to protect production facilities and prevent unplanned operational shutdowns.

Over 163,000 Social Assistance Recipients in Central Java Indicated to be Involved in Online Gambling

The Central Java Social Services Department has identified over 163,000 social assistance recipients suspected of participating in online gambling activities. Authorities are currently verifying the data and have warned that beneficiaries confirmed to be involved in such activities may have their assistance terminated.

Jakarta: Karet Station Closed, BNI City Logs over 300% Surge in Passengers

PT Kereta Api Indonesia has officially closed Karet Station until the end of 2026 to facilitate an integration project with Sudirman Baru and BNI City stations. The closure has already resulted in a 326 per cent surge in passenger activity at BNI City as commuters are diverted to the integrated facilities.

Trump Launches Psychological Attack Against Iran

US President Donald Trump has utilised AI-generated imagery of destruction on Iran's Kharg Island to signal a warning to Tehran. The escalation follows the collapse of a 2026 ceasefire and heightened tensions in the Persian Gulf regarding commercial shipping security.

Customs and Joint Forces Thwart Smuggling of 800kg of Ketamine

Indonesian Customs, alongside the National Narcotics Board and police, intercepted 800kg of ketamine during a maritime operation in the Riau Islands. The operation targeted two vessels, leading to the detention of ten crew members suspected of involvement in a transnational drug syndicate.

KPK has utilised Rp128.9 billion of 2026 budget for prevention and enforcement

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has reported the utilisation of Rp128.9 billion of its 2026 budget for anti-corruption prevention and enforcement programmes. This figure represents 61.8 per cent of the allocated budget for these specific functions as disclosed during a parliamentary working meeting.