Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 1 September 2026

Showing 1,151-1,200 of 1,567 articles

Tensions Rise as Turkish Warships Drive Away Israeli Military Vessels in the Mediterranean

Turkish warships have reportedly intercepted and forced Israeli Navy vessels to alter their course in the Mediterranean Sea. This incident occurs amidst escalating geopolitical tensions and Ankara's increasing naval presence in the Eastern Mediterranean.

West Kalimantan Natural Resources Conservation Agency Prioritises Orangutan Protection During Forest Fires

The West Kalimantan Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) is intensifying efforts to protect orangutans and their habitats from the increasing threat of forest and land fires during the dry season. The agency is preparing rescue and translocation measures while calling for collaborative action involving local communities, academics, and the private sector.

Motorcyclist Chased by Robbers and Crashes into Stall in Tebet; Police Investigating

Police in South Jakarta are investigating a violent robbery in Tebet after CCTV footage surfaced showing two youths being chased by armed assailants. While the stolen motorcycle has been recovered, the suspects remain at large, and investigators believe the victims may have known the perpetrators.

Oktavia Budi Raharjo Resigns as President Director of SQMI

PT Wilton Makmur Indonesia Tbk. (SQMI) has announced the resignation of its President Director, Oktavia Budi Raharjo. The company's management officially received the resignation letter on 31 August 2026, with the formal announcement expected during the upcoming Annual General Meeting of Shareholders.

Indonesia's B50 distribution reaches 80 percent nationwide

The Indonesian government has reported that the distribution of the mandatory B50 biodiesel blend has reached 80 per cent nationwide, with Pertamina gas stations achieving 90 per cent. The programme aims to reach full distribution by October 2026, promising significant reductions in carbon emissions and projected foreign exchange savings of up to Rp170 trillion.

Samsung Galaxy S27 Ultra testing 50MP 4x telephoto camera

Samsung is reportedly testing a new 50MP telephoto camera with 4x optical zoom for the upcoming Galaxy S27 Ultra. This potential upgrade features a larger sensor compared to previous models, though the final camera configuration remains subject to production cost evaluations.

Muhadjir Effendy Testifies in Hajj Quota Corruption Trial

Muhadjir Effendy, Special Advisor to the President for Hajj Affairs, appeared as a witness in the trial concerning alleged corruption in the 2023-2024 additional Hajj quota. The case involves allegations of state losses amounting to approximately Rp622 billion.

North Sumatra Brimob Deploys Personnel at Foot of Mount Sinabung to Face Emergency Conditions

The North Sumatra Brimob unit has deployed 100 personnel to the slopes of Mount Sinabung in Karo Regency to prepare for potential volcanic emergencies. This deployment follows the elevation of the volcano's status from Level II (Alert) to Level III (Standby) due to increased volcanic activity.

Apple reveals evidence of trade secret theft by former employee

Apple has presented new evidence in its trade secret lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging that a former employee used unauthorised access to Apple's cloud storage to run simulations. The tech giant claims the former engineer also utilised internal engineering tools and attempted to orchestrate the destruction of evidence.

Central Kalimantan declares emergency response status for forest and land fires

The Central Kalimantan Provincial Government has officially declared an emergency response status for forest and land fires, effective from 31 August to 29 September 2026. This measure aims to accelerate disaster management and improve coordination between various agencies to mitigate the impact of increasing fire incidents.

BPJPH: Halal Certainty Strengthens Competitiveness of Indonesian Tourism Destinations

The Head of the Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) stated that halal certification provides added value for businesses and enhances the global competitiveness of Indonesian tourism. The initiative aims to provide inclusive services for diverse international tourists by ensuring standards of quality, hygiene, and traceability.

East Jakarta Administration States PMI Fundraising Month Strengthens Emergency Services

The East Jakarta City Administration has launched the 2026 Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) Fundraising Month to bolster emergency response resources. The initiative aims to mobilise contributions from the government, business sectors, and the public to support disaster management and ambulance services.

Papeda Summit 2026 to Serve as Vital Space for Sustainable Development in Papua

The Southwest Papua Provincial Government is intensifying preparations for the Papua Sustainable Development (Papeda) Summit 2026, scheduled to take place in Sorong. The forum aims to unite stakeholders to formulate strategic directions for environmental, social, and economic sustainability across the Papua region.

South Sumatra sees 88 percent drop in wildfire area over 3 years: BNPB

The National Disaster Management Authority (BNPB) has reported a significant 88 per cent reduction in the burned area in South Sumatra over the last three years. This achievement is attributed to enhanced early warning systems, cross-sector collaboration, and intensive aerial and ground operations to combat forest and land fires.

China Being Abandoned as Smartphone Factories Move Elsewhere

Global technology giants are increasingly shifting their manufacturing operations away from China to reduce geopolitical risks and dependency. Following Samsung and Apple, Google is now planning to cease all Pixel hardware production in China by next year, moving operations to Vietnam and India.

Puan Demands Thorough Investigation into Death of Pejompongan Riot Victim Bambang Setiawan

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Puan Maharani, has called on law enforcement to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the death of Bambang Setiawan, who died following riots in Pejompongan, Central Jakarta. The incident occurred during demonstrations near the Parliament building, leaving one citizen dead and prompting calls for accountability.

Indonesian Military Deploys Joint Alfa Team to Map Forest Fire Hotspots in West Kalimantan

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has deployed a specialised joint 'Alfa Team' to conduct aerial surveillance and mapping of forest and land fire hotspots in West Kalimantan. Utilising paramotors and drones, the operation aims to identify the fastest access routes to remote fire locations to accelerate emergency response efforts.

East Kalimantan Environmental Agency intensifies air quality monitoring due to forest fires

The East Kalimantan Environmental Agency has ramped up air quality monitoring across several regencies following increased forest and land fire activity. Critical particulate matter levels have been recorded, with Kutai Barat reaching the 'Dangerous' category, prompting health warnings for vulnerable populations.

Vance: US strong enough to face global threats, including from China

US Vice President J.D. Vance has asserted that the United States possesses the necessary strength to effectively manage global challenges, specifically citing China. Despite identifying China as a rival with conflicting ambitions, Vance emphasised the importance of maintaining positive relations with Beijing.

Health Minister: SATUSEHAT EMR to Simplify Services and Boost Healthcare Quality

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has introduced the SATUSEHAT Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system to streamline healthcare delivery and improve data integration across Indonesia. The initiative aims to provide patients with easy access to their medical history while enabling more efficient BPJS Kesehatan claims and better monitoring of clinical quality.

After 8 Years as BI Governor, Perry Warjiyo Finally Speaks, Leaving This Message for Destry Damayanti

Outgoing Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo has issued his first public statement following the official appointment of his successors by the House of Representatives. He offered congratulations to Destry Damayanti and expressed his hopes for the new Board of Governors to maintain economic stability amidst global volatility.

Nigerian National Overstaying for 8 Years in Bali Flees During Attempted Arrest

A Nigerian citizen, Maduabuchi John Ndummadu, has been apprehended by immigration officials in Tabanan, Bali, after overstaying his visa for more than eight years. The individual attempted to evade authorities by fleeing into a local plantation before being captured and facing deportation.

To be Inaugurated Tomorrow, These are Destry's First Steps as Governor of Bank Indonesia

Destry Damayanti is set to be officially inaugurated as the Governor of Bank Indonesia for the 2026-2031 term at the Supreme Court tomorrow. Her primary focus upon taking office will be internal consolidation and the allocation of responsibilities among the Board of Governors.

Indonesian Citizens Allegedly Serving as Russian Soldiers; DPR Leader Receives Information on Deceptive Recruitment

The Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, has addressed reports that eight Indonesian citizens are allegedly serving in the Russian military. Intelligence suggests these individuals were recruited by third-party actors using fraudulent job advertisements for security or administrative roles promising high salaries.

Puan: 81st Anniversary of the House of Representatives is a Momentum to Strengthen Service

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Puan Maharani, marked the 81st anniversary of the DPR by calling for enhanced dedication to the people and improved democratic quality. She emphasised that the parliament must focus on ensuring people's sovereignty is reflected in policy-making and budget allocation.

House of Representatives Plenary Session Approves Destry, Aida, and Solikin to Lead Bank Indonesia

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has officially approved the appointments of Destry Damayanti as Governor of Bank Indonesia, alongside Aida S. Budiman and Solikin M. Juhro as Deputy Governors. The new leadership team is set to serve the 2026-2031 term following a successful fit and proper test by Commission XI.

Ministry builds 375 sanitation facilities in North Sumatra

The Ministry of Public Works is implementing the 2026 Community-Based Infrastructure Sanitation Program to construct 375 facilities across several districts in North Sumatra. This initiative aims to improve public health through better sanitation access while simultaneously boosting local economies through labour-intensive construction projects.

No University Degree Required: This Profession Earns Over Rp400 Million

An exploration of the high-paying career of underwater welding, which relies on specialised technical skills rather than academic degrees. Due to the extreme risks and rare expertise required, senior professionals in this field can command significant annual salaries.

Immigration deport and blacklist five Chinese nationals for illegal transit

The Atambua Immigration Office has deported and blacklisted five Chinese nationals suspected of attempting to use Indonesia as an illegal transit route to Australia. The individuals were intercepted at Atapupu Port after providing false information regarding their travel intentions and lacking sufficient funds for their stated activities.

BPS: Indonesia's Trade Balance Records US$3.70 Billion Surplus through July 2026

Indonesia's trade balance achieved a surplus of US$3.70 billion during the January-July 2026 period, driven by a 4.43 per cent year-on-year increase in exports. The manufacturing sector remains the primary contributor to the nation's cumulative export value.

800kg of Ketamine Seized from Vessel in Natuna; BNN Uncovers New Threat via Vapes

The National Narcotics Board (BNN) and joint task forces have intercepted 800kg of suspected Ketamine HCl from a vessel in the North Natuna waters. Authorities are also warning of a rising trend where narcotics are being distributed through liquid vape cartridges.

UBSI Tasikmalaya Students Drive Digitalisation of Salawu Village MSMEs through E-Catalogue

Students from Bina Sarana Informatika University (UBSI) Tasikmalaya have launched an E-Catalogue application to support the digitalisation of MSMEs in Salawu Village. The initiative, part of the BSI Explore 2026 programme, aims to expand the market reach of local products through digital technology.

Video: IDX Green Equity Designation Launched, How Significant Will Its Impact Be?

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has officially introduced the IDX Green Equity Designation to strengthen the nation's sustainable finance ecosystem. This initiative serves as a green label for companies meeting specific environmental criteria, aiming to integrate ESG principles into the Indonesian capital market.

Government launches system to measure disaster impact on regional fiscal risk

The Indonesian government has introduced the Adaptive Regional Integrated System for Fiscal Resilience (ARISE) to assess how disasters affect regional economic and fiscal stability. Developed in collaboration with the UNDRR and ITB, the system aims to shift the focus from post-disaster response to proactive pre-disaster planning.

East Kalimantan oversees National Strategic Project for coal gasification to support industrial sovereignty

The East Kalimantan Provincial Government is actively monitoring the development of a National Strategic Project aimed at converting low-calorific coal into methanol. The project is expected to reduce Indonesia's reliance on imports and save the state an estimated Rp7.1 trillion in foreign exchange annually.

Jakarta Governor Participates in Economic Census, Urges Citizens to Cooperate with Officials

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has called on residents and business owners to provide accurate information for the 2026 Economic Census conducted by BPS. The census aims to capture a comprehensive picture of Jakarta's diverse economic landscape, ranging from micro-enterprises to international corporations, to inform future government policy.

Confirmed: DPR Approves Rp27.37 Trillion Budget for Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources in 2027 Draft Budget

Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) Commission XII has approved a budget allocation of Rp27.37 trillion for the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) for the 2027 fiscal year. The funds are primarily earmarked for national strategic infrastructure projects, including gas network expansion and rural electrification.

Viral Video of Foreigner Allegedly Assaulting Motorcyclist in Mengwi, Badung; Police Intervene

Police in Badung, Bali, are investigating an incident involving a foreign national who allegedly assaulted a motorcyclist while under the influence of alcohol. The incident, which went viral on social media, occurred in the Mengwi district and is currently under investigation by local authorities.

ARYADUTA Lippo Village Celebrates 32 Years with Commitment to Continuous Development

ARYADUTA Lippo Village is preparing to mark its 32nd anniversary in September 2026 with a series of planned facility enhancements. The upgrades, spanning 2026 to 2027, aim to modernise guest rooms, dining venues, and public areas to meet evolving traveller expectations.

Tamangapa Landfill in Makassar Moves Away from Open Dumping to Sanitary Landfill System

The Makassar City Government is accelerating improvements at the Tamangapa Landfill in South Sulawesi to transition from open dumping to a sanitary landfill system. As of August 2026, approximately 93 per cent of the waste piles have been covered with soil as part of a national environmental mandate.

Legal Observer: National Police Successfully Secured Demonstrations on 27 August

Legal expert Mohammad Saleh Gawi has commended the Indonesian National Police for successfully managing large-scale demonstrations in Jakarta without widespread unrest. He emphasised that the police acted as neutral public servants, balancing the constitutional right to free speech with the necessity of maintaining public order.

TNI Alfa Team Maps Aerial Routes to West Kalimantan Hotspots

A joint military task force, known as Team Alfa, has commenced aerial surveillance and mapping operations to detect hotspots and identify the fastest routes to forest and land fires in West Kalimantan. The operation utilises paramotors and drones to navigate difficult terrain and accelerate fire suppression efforts.

Central Jakarta Police adopt humanist approach to oversee sugarcane farmers' protest at Monas

Central Jakarta Police utilised a humanitarian approach to manage a protest by hundreds of sugarcane farmers at the Monas area. The demonstrators, representing the National Leadership Council of the Indonesian People's Sugarcane Farmers Association (DPN APTRI), are demanding higher government purchase prices and an end to sugar imports.

ASDP Strengthens Crew Preparedness on Portlink II for Emergency Situations

PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) has conducted safety meetings and emergency drills for the crew of KMP Portlink II to enhance rapid response capabilities. The initiative aims to reinforce a safety culture and ensure passenger security through regular training on emergency procedures and equipment usage.

DPR Hopes for Improved PBNU Under New Leadership of Gus Kikin

The Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Puan Maharani, has congratulated KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz, known as Gus Kikin, on his election as the General Chairman of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) for the 2026โ€“2031 period. The appointment follows the successful conclusion of the 35th NU Muktamar, with hopes that the organisation will continue to thrive under its new leadership.

2,000 Residents Lose Homes as Police Reveal New Facts Regarding Massive Fire in Jayapura

A devastating fire in the Mandala area of Jayapura, Papua, has left approximately 2,000 residents homeless. Local police are currently investigating the cause of the blaze, which occurred in a densely populated coastal neighbourhood.

Tim Cook Officially Steps Down; Here is Apple's Future Under New CEO

Tim Cook has officially resigned as CEO of Apple after 15 years, handing the reins to hardware engineering veteran John Ternus. While Cook will remain with the company as executive chairman, Ternus faces the immediate challenge of leading Apple's pivot towards artificial intelligence and managing global chip shortages.

Puan: House of Representatives Follows Up on 9,205 Public Complaints Throughout 2025-2026

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Puan Maharani, announced that 9,205 public complaints were received and forwarded to parliamentary committees for follow-up between August 2025 and August 2026. The House has also established 42 working committees and held 736 meetings to enhance government oversight and public welfare.

Perry Warjiyo congratulates newly elected Bank Indonesia Governor and Board of Governors

Former Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo has extended his congratulations to Destry Damayanti and other newly appointed officials following their confirmation by the House of Representatives. The transition marks a new leadership era for the central bank for the 2026-2031 period.

Pertamina Merges PET into PPN to Strengthen Downstream Business Integration

Pertamina has announced the merger of PT Pertamina Energy Terminal (PET) into PT Pertamina Patra Niaga (PPN) as part of its second phase of downstream business restructuring. The move aims to enhance business integration, optimise the value chain, and drive operational cost efficiencies within the Downstream Subholding.