Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 1 September 2026

Showing 751-800 of 1,567 articles

National Food Agency Deploys Task Force to Monitor Rice Prices Across 13 Provinces

The National Food Agency (Bapanas) has established a dedicated task force to monitor the price and quality of medium and premium rice in 1ram provinces until December 2026. The initiative aims to enforce maximum retail price regulations and prevent illegal hoarding or price gouging in the market.

Ministry of Villages Proposes Rp58 Billion Budget for Post-Disaster Reconstruction in Sumatra

The Ministry of Villages, Development of Disadvantaged Regions, and Transmigration has proposed an additional budget of Rp58 billion to accelerate rehabilitation efforts in disaster-affected areas of Sumatra. The funds are intended for the reconstruction of village markets, clean water infrastructure, and local roads.

Doctor explains why breast cancer therapies can differ

Dr Santi Christiani Gultom, an oncology specialist, explains that breast cancer treatment is highly personalised rather than standardised. Factors such as tumour molecular profiles, cancer stage, and a patient's underlying health conditions play a critical role in determining the appropriate therapeutic approach.

Frozen 'Bento' delivery services gaining popularity in Japan, market continues to grow

The frozen bento market in Japan is projected to reach 217.4 billion yen this year, driven by subscription-based home delivery services. The growth is supported by an increasing demand for specialised nutrition, including meals for the elderly and those with chronic illnesses.

Perry Warjiyo Speaks Out on Destry Damayanti's Appointment as Bank Indonesia Governor

Former Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo has congratulated Destry Damayanti following her official appointment as the new Governor of Bank Indonesia for the 2026–2031 term. The appointment, alongside two Deputy Governors, was confirmed during a plenary session of the House of Representatives (DPR RI).

BPBD: Sumedang recorded as region with highest number of forest and land fires in West Java

Sumedang Regency has recorded the highest frequency of forest and land fires in West Java, with 20 incidents reported as of late August 2026. While Sumedang leads in frequency, Sukabumi Regency has suffered the largest total area of land damage due to fires.

Video: QRIS Can Now Use Retail KKI, Credit Card Transactions Predicted to Rise

The Indonesian Credit Card Association (AKKI) has welcomed the launch of digital retail Indonesian Credit Cards (KKI) by Bank Indonesia. This initiative is expected to expand payment options via QRIS and bolster domestic payment infrastructure sovereignty.

DPR confirms Asset Forfeiture Bill covers proceeds of corruption

The Indonesian House of Representatives has confirmed that the proposed Asset Forfeiture Bill will include provisions to confiscate assets derived from corruption. The legislative body is currently refining the draft to align with the new Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code, with a target completion date of 15 December 2026.

OJK awaits Presidential Regulation regarding mineral and commodity types in BMKS

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) is currently awaiting a Presidential Regulation to determine the specific types of strategic minerals and commodities to be traded on the Strategic Mineral and Commodity Exchange (BMKS). Once the regulation is issued by President Prabowo Subianto, the OJK will proceed with drafting the necessary OJK Regulations (POJK) and managing the transfer of authority from Bappebti.

Cilacap Education Officials Continued to Pay THR Levies to Regional Leadership Following KPK Sting

Officials from the Cilacap Education and Culture Office continued to contribute to holiday allowance (THR) levies for regional leadership even after a KPK sting operation. Testimony during the corruption trial of the inactive Cilacap Regent revealed that these payments were collected from various department heads.

Ride-Hailing Driver Distributed Crystal Meth in Cimahi, Disguised in Toy Cars

Police in Cimahi have arrested a ride-hailing driver for allegedly distributing crystal methamphetamine using toy cars as a concealment method. The suspect was apprehended in Subang with approximately 83.28 grams of the illegal substance.

Japanese Padel Athlete Uses Indonesia as Career Base

Japanese professional padel player Chifumi Sato has chosen Indonesia as his training base to aim for a top 150 global ranking. To support his international ambitions, J Trust Bank Indonesia has entered into a one-year sponsorship agreement to fund his training and competition expenses.

Wings Air cancels four flights due to Mount Lewotolok eruption

Wings Air has cancelled four scheduled flights following the volcanic eruption of Mount Lewotolok in East Nusa Tenggara. The airline cited safety concerns regarding volcanic ash dispersal affecting airspace near Larantuka and Lewoleba airports.

Trump threatens Tehran by broadcasting video of Kharg Island destruction

US President Donald Trump has released an AI-generated video depicting the destruction of Iran's Kharg Island to signal a warning to Tehran. The move follows a breakdown in the ceasefire between the two nations following recent maritime tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.

East Kalimantan taps Rp5 billion carbon funds for wildfire control

The East Kalimantan Forestry Office has utilised Rp5 billion from the Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF) to fund emergency wildfire suppression operations. The funds are being used to provide essential supplies and equipment for personnel and volunteers as the province manages nearly 1,000 wildfire cases this year.

Russia Says Embassies Not Involved in Recruiting Foreign Soldiers

The Russian Ambassador to Indonesia, Sergei Tolchenov, has denied that Russian diplomatic offices are involved in recruiting Indonesian nationals for the Russian military. This statement follows investigations by the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs into reports that eight Indonesian citizens have joined the Russian armed forces.

Galeri Indonesia Kaya introduces Borobudur through immersive experience

Galeri Indonesia Kaya has launched 'Purwacarita Borobudur', an immersive exhibition utilising ethical artificial intelligence to showcase the history of Borobudur Temple. The exhibition aims to connect younger generations with Indonesian heritage through advanced visual storytelling and interactive technology.

KN Pordasi and Central Aceh Regency Government to Optimise H.M. Hasan Gayo Field

The National Confederation of the Indonesian Equestrian Sports Union (KN Pordability) and the Central Aceh Regency Government are collaborating to develop the H.M. Hasan Gayo field into a hub for equestrian sports and sport tourism. The initiative aims to boost the local economy by promoting horse racing and international-standard horse archery.

Man Claiming to be Robbery Victim in Subang Revealed to be Faking Incident to Cover Drug Transaction

A man in Subang, West Java, who claimed to have been the victim of a violent robbery, has been found to have staged the incident to disguise a synthetic tobacco transaction. Police have arrested two suspects as part of an investigation into the eight-person criminal gang involved.

AFFA Holds Egg Exhibition at TIM, Highlighting Animal Welfare

The Act For Farmed Animals (AFFA) group is hosting an immersive exhibition titled 'Beyond the Cage' at Taman Ismail Marzuki. The event aims to raise public awareness regarding the production systems of eggs and the welfare of laying hens within the food supply chain.

BI to prioritise economic stability under new governor Destry

Following approval by the House of Representatives, Destry Damayanti is set to lead Bank Indonesia for the 2026–2031 term with a primary focus on maintaining rupiah stability and controlling inflation. The new leadership intends to strengthen coordination with the central government to align fiscal and monetary policies, particularly regarding food price management and the expansion of local currency transactions.

Indonesian Language and Gamelan Flourish in Melbourne

A primary school teacher in Melbourne is using Indonesian language and Gamelan music to foster cultural understanding among Australian students. The initiative demonstrates how grassroots cultural exchange can strengthen bilateral relations beyond formal diplomacy.

Kuta Police Hunt Snatch Thief Who Stole IDR 225 Million Gold Necklace from Australian Tourist

The Kuta Sector Police are currently pursuing a suspect involved in the theft of gold necklaces belonging to an Australian national. The incident, which was captured on CCTV and went viral on social media, resulted in losses totalling approximately IDR 225 million.

Rice Prices Rise for Consumers, Are Farmers Becoming More Prosperous?

The Farmer Terms of Trade (NTP) rose to 129.19 in August 2026, driven by an increase in the price of commodities such as paddy, palm oil, and rubber. While rice prices have climbed throughout the entire supply chain from mills to retailers, the increase in income for farmers has outpaced their production costs.

Israeli settlers attempt to burn mosque in Nablus

Israeli settlers attempted to set fire to a mosque in Beita, northwest of Nablus, and vandalised the site with racist slogans. The Palestinian Ministry of Waqf and Religious Affairs has condemned the attack as a dangerous escalation aimed at provoking Muslims and violating religious sanctity.

Indonesia offers IDR 207 trillion infrastructure projects to Japan

The Indonesian government has presented 32 strategic transportation and infrastructure investment projects, valued at approximately IDR 207.64 trillion, to Japanese investors. Held during a business forum in Tokyo, the initiative aims to leverage long-standing bilateral ties to secure high-quality, sustainable partnerships in sectors including railways, toll roads, and logistics.

Indonesian National Police Requests Rp66 Trillion Budget Increase, Including Funds for Riot Control

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) has proposed an additional budget of Rp66 trillion for the 2027 fiscal year to support disaster management, riot control, and VVIP security. This request comes despite an existing budget allocation of Rp139.19 trillion, which represents a decrease from the 2026 allocation.

Transport Minister Showcases IDR 10 Trillion Non-Tax Revenue to Parliament, Sets Ambitious 2026 Targets

The Minister of Transportation, Dudy Purwagandhi, reported that Non-Tax State Revenue (PNBP) has already reached over IDR 10 trillion as of August 2026. The Ministry is projecting that total non-tax revenue could exceed its annual target, potentially reaching IDR 13.51 trillion by the end of the year.

Former NTB Regional Secretary Lalu Gita Questioned Again in Rp 11 Billion Credit Case

The former Regional Secretary of West Nusa Tenggara, Lalu Gita Ariadi, has undergone further questioning by the NTB High Prosecutor's Office regarding alleged corruption in an Rp 11 billion credit facility. The investigation concerns a loan from Bank NTB Syariah to PT Carsten Group Indonesia for the 2023 MXGP event.

BPS: Farmer Terms of Trade Rose by 1.05 Per Cent in August to 129.19

Indonesia's Terms of Trade for Farmers (NTP) increased to 129.19 in August, marking a 1.05 per cent rise from July. The growth was driven by higher price indices received by farmers, particularly for commodities such as unhusked rice, palm oil, and rubber.

Dayak Customary Council Urges Customary Officials to Strengthen Forest and Land Fire Supervision

The National Dayak Customary Council (MADN) has issued an urgent appeal to strengthen forest and land fire prevention amidst extreme drought in Kalimantan. The council is calling on customary leaders to increase surveillance and implement traditional legal mechanisms to prevent widespread fires and haze-related health risks.

Pentagon Officials Continue to Resign, Latest Being Army Secretary Dan Driscoll

US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll has resigned after 18 months in office, amid reports of tensions with Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth. His departure follows a series of high-profile resignations and leadership changes within the Pentagon under the Trump administration.

Purwacarita Borobudur: A medium to explore history through technology

Galeri Indonesia Kaya has launched 'Purwacarita Borobudur', an immersive experience that utilises ethical artificial intelligence to present Indonesian history. The project integrates advanced technology with academic validation from Universitas Gadjah Mada to ensure historical accuracy.

Guide: How to Calculate National Internship Allowances

The Ministry of Manpower has outlined the specific formula for calculating monthly allowances for participants in the national internship programme. The calculation is based on attendance and refers to the minimum wage of the internship location.

BKPM Budget Set at Rp 974 Billion for 2027, Commission XII Proposes Increase to Rp 1.2 Trillion

The Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming/BKPM has been allocated Rp 974.84 billion in the 2027 draft state budget, an increase from previous indicative figures. However, Commission XII of the House of Representatives has proposed raising this budget to at least Rp 1.2 trillion to support ambitious investment targets.

Indian PM Modi Advises Putin at SCO Summit

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the war in Ukraine during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. The diplomatic move comes as India faces potential high tariffs from the United States due to its continued reliance on Russian energy imports.

Foreign Investment Interest Remains High in Indonesia, Here is the Proof!

Despite global trends of capital outflow, a significant investment of Rp4.8 trillion (US$270 million) from Japan's SBI Holdings into Ajaib Group demonstrates sustained foreign confidence in Indonesia. This strategic funding comes amidst a period of rising domestic retail investors, highlighting the resilience of the Indonesian capital market.

Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education: Regular BOS Funds May Be Used for TKA Implementation

The Indonesian Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has announced that Regular School Operational Assistance (BOS) funds can be utilised to support the Academic Ability Test (TKA). This includes expenses for preparation, implementation, and evaluation, provided that local financial regulations are strictly followed.

Minister: Ministry of Villages Budget Realisation Reaches 55.84 Per Cent as of 1 September

The Minister of Villages and Underdeveloped Regions, Yandri Susanto, reported that the ministry's budget utilisation has reached Rp1.146 trillion, or 55.84 per cent, of its adjusted 2026 allocation. The ministry is also actively pursuing international collaborations with Japanese and Chinese entities to enhance village human resources and digital empowerment.

Indonesia on alert for forest fires as El Nino peaks in September

The Indonesian government is intensifying efforts to mitigate forest and land fire risks as the El Nino phenomenon continues to threaten several provinces. Measures include weather modification operations, aerial firefighting with international support from Japan, and the implementation of President Prabowo Subianto's directive to maintain peatland moisture levels.

Growing with MSMEs and Driving the Economy, BRI Loans Reach Rp1,235 Trillion

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk has reported significant growth in its MSME credit portfolio, reaching Rp1,235.4 trillion by the end of Q2 2026. The bank continues to focus on empowering small businesses through various digital and community-based initiatives to drive local economic development.

How does the 2026 El Niño compare with Indonesia’s worst drought years?

The 2026 El Niño has intensified more rapidly than initially forecast, posing a significant threat to Indonesia through increased wildfire risks. While the current number of fire hotspots has already surpassed levels seen in 2015, improved peatland restoration and government monitoring may mitigate a repeat of previous economic catastrophes.

Attorney General's Office Examines BGN Experts and Foundations in Free Nutritious Meal Corruption Probe

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office is investigating alleged corruption within the management of the 2025-2026 Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. Investigators have questioned seven witnesses, including experts from the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) and representatives from private foundations, as part of an ongoing probe into procurement mark-ups and improper affiliations.

National Police Chief Expresses Hopes for New PBNU Leadership

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has expressed high hopes for the newly elected leadership of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU). He emphasised the importance of the organisation in maintaining religious tolerance and bringing benefits to the 90 million Nahdliyin members in Indonesia.

India-Indonesia Roundtable Highlights Bali's Potential as a Hub for Indian Products and Agricultural Trade

The Consulate General of India in Bali hosted a trade and investment roundtable focused on reviving historical spice and agricultural trade routes. The event explored opportunities for strengthening economic ties, enhancing value-added processing, and positioning Bali as a strategic gateway for Indian products into the Indonesian market.

Reasons why children under five are at risk of acute appendicitis with complications

Medical experts warn that diagnosing acute appendicitis in children under five is significantly more challenging than in older children. Due to their inability to communicate pain, young children are at a higher risk of severe complications, such as intestinal perforation.

Capital Inflow Reaches Rp140.1 Trillion, Purbaya: Global Confidence in Indonesia Maintained

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa reported that Indonesia's economic stability has preserved global investor confidence despite global uncertainty. This stability is evidenced by significant capital inflows of Rp140.6 trillion and stable credit ratings from major global agencies.

Electric Vehicles on the Rise: Jakarta Apartments Begin Installing EV Charging Stations

As the adoption of electric vehicles grows in Jakarta, several apartment complexes are beginning to install Public Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (SPKLU). Managed by Inner City Management (ICM), this initiative aims to support residents and promote environmental sustainability through improved charging infrastructure.

Al Azhar Mosque distributes aid for NTT earthquake victims and forest fires

The management of the Al Azhar Grand Mosque in Jakarta has distributed humanitarian aid to assist victims of the East Nusa Tenggara earthquake and recent forest fires. The initiative includes the provision of food, clothing, and essential infrastructure such as clean water wells and ambulances.

8 Indonesians Allegedly Serving as Russian Mercenaries: What Does the DPR Say?

Deputy House Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad has addressed reports from Ukrainian intelligence alleging that eight Indonesian citizens have been recruited as mercenaries for Russia. The recruitment process reportedly used deceptive job vacancies for security and administrative roles to lure individuals with promises of high salaries.