Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 1 September 2026

Showing 1,351-1,400 of 1,567 articles

Rupiah strengthens as US Dollar undergoes correction

The Indonesian Rupiah saw a slight appreciation against the US Dollar at the start of Tuesday's trading, driven by a correction in the greenback. Market sentiment remains cautious as investors await upcoming Indonesian inflation and trade data.

Fuel Prices Rise: Pertamax 92 and Pertamax Green 95 Remain Unchanged

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has announced a price adjustment for several non-subsidised fuel products, including Pertamax Turbo and the Dex series. However, prices for Pertamax 92 and Pertamax Green 95 will remain at their previous levels to maintain economic stability and public purchasing power.

KPK Responds to Possibility of Summoning Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has addressed the potential summoning of Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto regarding ongoing corruption investigations in the Bogor Regency Government. The investigation involves allegations of misappropriated employee incentives and irregularities in procurement processes.

InJourney Airports Strengthens Employee English Proficiency Using AI, Partners with ELSA Business

PT Angkasa Pura Indonesia, operating as InJourney Airports, has partnered with ELSA Business to implement an AI-powered English language training programme. The initiative aims to enhance the communication skills of customer handling staff across nine airports to meet international service standards.

Number of Graduates Increasing, Yet 1 Million Indonesian Graduates Remain Unemployed

Data from the Indonesian Central Statistics Agency (BPS) reveals that approximately one million university graduates are currently unemployed. This issue is attributed to a significant mismatch between academic competencies and the evolving demands of the industrial labour market.

IDX Composite strengthens amid 'wait and see' approach to domestic and global economic data

The Indonesia Composite Index (IHSG) rose on Tuesday morning as investors adopted a cautious stance ahead of key domestic inflation and trade balance reports. Market participants are also closely monitoring global economic indicators, including US manufacturing data and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

Indonesia Needs to Shift Balance of Payments Structure from Debt-Driven to Investment-Driven to Reduce Debt Dependency

Trimegah Sekuritas Indonesia Chief Economist Fakhrul Fulvian supports President Prabowo Subianto's vision to prioritise investment over borrowing. He emphasises that Indonesia must structurally increase net Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to replace debt-based capital flows and reduce the rising burden of interest costs.

Bareksa Analyst Team's Stock Recommendations Today: PGAS, ITMG & ELSA, and JCI Predictions

The Bareksa Analyst Team has identified PGAS, ITMG, and ELSA as key stocks to watch for 1 September 2026. Despite a slight weakening of the Rupiah and foreign net selling, the Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) showed resilience, with analysts projecting continued sideways consolidation.

Jakarta Directorate General of Corrections forms investigation team over alleged service irregularities

The Jakarta Regional Office of the Directorate General of Corrections has established an investigation team to probe allegations of service irregularities within several correctional units. The move follows reports circulating on social media, prompting authorities to strengthen oversight through increased inspections and a new public complaint channel.

PTBA Profits Skyrocket 215% to Rp 2.64 Trillion, Key Drivers Revealed

PT Bukit Asam (Persero) Tbk has reported a massive 214.7% year-on-year surge in net profit for the first half of 2026. The coal producer, a member of the MIND ID mining holding, achieved a net profit of Rp 2.64 trillion, supported by rising coal sales and improved cost management.

West Java Police Chief Urges Public to Increase Awareness to Prevent Forest and Land Fires

West Java Regional Police Chief, Inspector General Pipit Rismanto, has called on the public to heighten awareness to prevent forest and land fires (karhutla) across the province. The appeal emphasises the importance of avoiding activities such as open waste burning and improper disposal of cigarette butts to mitigate fire risks during the dry season.

Factory Activity Slips Into Contraction at 49.8 as Weak Output Hits Manufacturers

Indonesia's manufacturing sector slipped into contraction in August, with the S&P Global PMI falling to 49.8 due to declines in production and payrolls. Despite the contraction, business confidence reached a seven-month high as easing inflationary pressures and stabilising new orders provided a more optimistic long-term outlook.

KPK Suspects Corruption in New Student Admissions Occurring at Other Universities, Not Just Unila and Unsoed

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) suspects that fraudulent practices in new student admissions are widespread across various Indonesian universities beyond Unila and Unsoed. The anti-corruption agency has urged the public to report any suspected irregularities and called on higher education institutions to implement concrete systemic reforms.

How to Activate Indonesia Credit Card for QRIS Transactions

Bank Indonesia has officially launched the Indonesia Credit Card (KKI) for the retail segment, initially available as a digital card for QRIS payments. Major Indonesian banks, including BCA, Mandiri, and BNI, are participating in the first phase of this rollout.

Land Fire in Nakula Area Continues to Blaze This Morning

A significant land fire broke out on the border of Legian and Denpasar on Monday night, consuming waste-filled land and several structures. The blaze has caused damage to vehicles and semi-permanent buildings, with firefighters struggling to contain multiple hotspots.

From Today, KRL Passengers at Karet Station Diverted to BNI City Station

KAI Commuter has announced the diversion of passenger services from Karet Station to BNI City Station due to integration works. The project, which runs until 31 December 2026, aims to improve service flow and safety as part of the integration between Sudirman Baru/BNI City and Karet stations.

Sharia Banking Made Simple: Aladin Brings All Services to Your Fingertips

PT Bank Aladin Syariah Tbk is strengthening its position as Indonesia's first digital Sharia bank, boasting 3.9 million customers as of Q2 2026. The bank leverages the extensive Alfa Group retail network to provide seamless online-to-offline banking services.

Regional Military Commander: Environmental Approach Implemented to Prevent Human-Elephant Conflict

The Commander of the XXI/Radin Inten Regional Military Command has proposed an environmental-based approach to mitigate human-elephant conflicts in Way Kambas National Park. This strategy involves training local communities to cultivate crops and livestock, such as lemongrass and bees, which naturally deter elephants from entering human settlements.

Attractions and Restaurants at Diamond Beach, Nusa Penida Closed Due to Unfinished Permits

Authorities in Klungkung, Bali, have ordered the temporary closure of several businesses at Diamond Beach, Nusa Penida, due to missing building permits. The crackdown focuses on extreme attractions such as swings and flying foxes to ensure visitor safety and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Saying 'Hah?' During Conversations Could Signal Hearing Problems

An ear, nose and throat specialist warns that frequently asking people to repeat themselves may indicate hearing damage, even when standard hearing tests appear normal. The condition is increasingly seen in young people who use earphones at maximum volume for hours, exposing their ears to sound levels comparable to a jet engine. The damage affects microscopic hair cells in the cochlea, which do not regenerate once destroyed.

Poltekpel Barombong partners with Unhas to develop maritime campus

Politeknik Pelayaran Barombong in Makassar has engaged Hasanuddin University to prepare a Detailed Engineering Design for its maritime campus development. The collaboration aims to produce a measurable and functional blueprint covering academic buildings, offices, and supporting facilities. Both institutions view the partnership as a contribution to quality education and sustainable infrastructure development.

List of Indonesia's Richest People September 2026, Low Tuck Kwong the Wealthiest

Forbes' August 2026 billionaire rankings show Low Tuck Kwong as Indonesia's richest person with US$19.3 billion, despite a slight decline in his wealth. The list features ten Indonesian tycoons whose fortunes stem from sectors including coal, petrochemicals, banking, tobacco, data centres, and palm oil. Prajogo Pangestu and R. Budi Hartono follow in second and third place respectively.

Perubahan Drastis Saham Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BBRI)

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia Tbk (BBRI) recorded a significant net buy from foreign investors totalling Rp 1.51 trillion during August 2026, reversing a five-month selling trend. The bank's net profit for the first half of 2026 rose by 17% year-on-year to Rp 30.9 trillion, driven by improved operational efficiency and robust credit growth.

Mount Sinabung on Alert, Karo Regency evacuates residents of two villages

The Karo Regency administration in North Sumatra has begun evacuating residents of two villages after Mount Sinabung's status was raised from Level II (Advisory) to Level III (Alert). The decision follows increased volcanic activity and an expanded danger zone based on recommendations from the Geological Agency. Evacuation centres and integrated command posts have been prepared to support the relocation effort.

China denies censoring videos of disaster on Nepal border

China has rejected accusations that it censored videos showing the aftermath of flash floods and mudslides at Gyirong Port in the Xizang Autonomous Region, which borders Nepal. The death toll from the disaster has risen to at least 951, with nearly 4,800 people still missing, including 853 foreign nationals. Beijing says it has provided emergency cash assistance, humanitarian aid, and rescue teams to Nepal, while maintaining open and transparent information sharing.

New Facts Reveal Why Young People Fear AI More Than Older Generations

A Pew Research Center survey shows that 55% of American adults under 30 are more concerned than excited about artificial intelligence, up from 39% two years ago. Overall, 52% of US adults share this concern, with 71% believing AI will reduce job opportunities within two decades. The findings indicate a sharp decline in AI enthusiasm since 2021, particularly among younger demographics.

Mataram Social Agency targets 1,500 PKH beneficiaries for independent graduation

The Mataram Social Agency in West Nusa Tenggara aims for around 1,500 Family Hope Programme (PKH) beneficiaries to achieve independent graduation by the end of 2026. The initiative is supported by capital assistance ranging from Rp5 million to Rp20 million per beneficiary, alongside intensive mentoring. Successful graduates are removed from the PKH and non-cash food assistance recipient lists.

After Months of Delay, 400 Mataram Residents Confirmed to Receive Death Benefit

The Mataram Social Affairs Agency has confirmed that around 400 residents classified in deciles 1-5 will receive death benefits after months of administrative delays. The disbursement will be made through a planned social assistance scheme in this year's revised regional budget. Applicants outside the decile criteria will await further policy direction from the regional head.

Bank Shares Prop Up IHSG This Morning, BBRI Leads Gains

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened higher on Tuesday, with banking stocks providing the main support. Shares of Bank Rakyat Indonesia led the advance, contributing the most points to the index. Investors are also watching domestic data releases including August inflation, the manufacturing PMI, and July trade figures.

Pertamax Fuel Prices Rise, Bahlil Acknowledges Migration to Pertalite

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has confirmed that consumers are shifting from non-subsidised fuels like Pertamax to the subsidised Pertalite as the price gap between the two widens. The government is currently calculating the extent of this migration but has guaranteed that subsidised fuel prices will remain unchanged until at least December 2026. Data from BPH Migas shows daily Pertalite consumption rose by up to 12.92% above normal levels following the June 2026 Pertamax price increase.

Social Affairs Minister Opens Decile Data Correction Access, Public Can Report via WhatsApp

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf has announced that the government is opening channels for the public to request corrections to their decile data, addressing both inclusion and exclusion errors. Citizens can report discrepancies through formal village-level mechanisms, the Cek Bansos app, call centres, or a dedicated WhatsApp centre. The initiative aims to improve the accuracy of the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) to ensure social assistance programmes reach the right beneficiaries.

Antam Gold Price Falls Today, No Increase for 7 Days

The price of gold produced by PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) fell again on Tuesday, extending a seven-day losing streak. The one-gram bar now sells for Rp2,664,000, down Rp6,000 from the previous session, while the buyback price also declined to Rp2,517,000 per gram.

China warns of 'consequences' over Taiwan's attendance at Pacific leaders meeting

China has expressed serious concerns and warned of unspecified 'consequences' after Taiwan attended the Pacific Islands Forum opening ceremony in Palau, reigniting tensions over the island's diplomatic status. Australian and New Zealand leaders pushed back, insisting the forum makes its own decisions, while Taiwan framed its participation as a contribution to regional prosperity and peace. The dispute highlights the ongoing contest for influence in the Pacific between China and Western-aligned nations.

DIY Regional Government Admits Malioboro Portal Not Disability-Friendly, Design to Be Changed

The Yogyakarta Special Region government has acknowledged that the newly installed 'Regol Ayom' portal gates along Malioboro side streets are not accessible for elderly pedestrians and people with disabilities. Following a viral video showing an elderly wheelchair user struggling to pass through, officials confirmed the design will be adjusted rather than dismantled. The revision aims to block motor vehicles while providing proper access for all pedestrians.

Rupiah Strengthens to Rp 17,715 Amid Energy Price Surge from Renewed Iran-US War

The rupiah strengthened slightly to Rp 17,715 per US dollar in early Tuesday trading, despite broader depreciation pressures and rising global energy prices triggered by renewed Iran-US conflict. Economists warn that geopolitical uncertainty and energy price spikes could push Indonesia's energy subsidy and compensation spending to Rp 526 trillion by year-end, nearly Rp 200 trillion above the initial budget allocation. The Prabowo administration has also proposed a higher fuel subsidy budget of Rp 28.7 trillion for 2027, up 8.71 percent from the 2026 realisation estimate.

APUKN urges industrial estates to monitor dry season to maintain operations

The Nusantara Coke Industry Association (APUKN) has called for increased monitoring of hydrological conditions during the dry season to safeguard national coke industry operations. Water supply at industrial estates such as Morowali has fallen to around 50 percent of normal levels, while falling river levels in Kalimantan are disrupting coking coal transport. The association warns that a prolonged dry season could pressure coke production, exports and logistics costs.

Antam gold price falls to Rp2.664 million per gram in early September

The price of Antam gold declined by Rp6,000 to Rp2.664 million per gram on Tuesday morning, with the buyback price also dropping to Rp2.517 million per gram. Transactions above Rp10 million are subject to a 1.5 percent income tax, while purchases incur a 0.25 percent tax. The price list covers denominations from 0.5 grams to 1,000 grams.

Mount Sinabung erupts; temporary closure of 9 national parks

Mount Sinabung in North Sumatra erupted violently on Monday, spewing a volcanic ash column 3.5 kilometres high and blanketing nearby Berastagi in ash. The Geological Agency warned that the eruption may be followed by a larger one. Separately, the Ministry of Forestry announced the temporary closure of nine national parks deemed at high risk of forest and land fires.

Life Insurance Premium Income Rises 8.2%, Reaching Rp94.75 Trillion

The Indonesian Life Insurance Association (AAJI) reported an 8.2% year-on-year increase in premium income to Rp94.75 trillion in the first half of 2026. Unit-linked products led new business growth with a 34.5% surge, while total claims paid rose 4.3% to Rp75.57 trillion. The figures indicate sustained public demand for insurance protection despite a decline in total industry income in June.

Accused of Being an Iran Facilitator, US to Cut Banque Misr UAE from Global Financial System

The US Treasury has announced plans to sever Banque Misr's UAE branch from the global financial system, accusing it of acting as a critical node for Iran to access US dollars. The proposed rule would bar the bank from correspondent banking with US institutions starting 28 September. The move is part of the Trump administration's 'Operation Economic Outcast' aimed at intensifying pressure on Iran amid tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.

Rupiah Opens Flat This Morning, US Dollar Holds at Rp17,710

The Indonesian rupiah opened unchanged against the US dollar at Rp17,710 on Tuesday morning, as markets weighed the prospect of a Federal Reserve rate hike in September. Investors are also awaiting the House of Representatives' plenary session to confirm Destry Damayanti as the next Governor of Bank Indonesia. The appointment is expected to provide clarity on monetary policy continuity and the central bank's commitment to rupiah stability.

As the World Grows More Complex, Indonesian Youth Need Stronger Global Political Literacy

A community service programme by Pasundan University used Model United Nations simulations to strengthen global political literacy among high school students in West Java. The month-long programme involved 50 students role-playing as delegates from 13 countries, negotiating issues such as international maritime law and UNCLOS. Organisers hope such participatory learning will help young Indonesians critically understand global affairs and their connection to national interests.

Origins of Karet Station, Officially Closed Today, Dating Back to 1922

Karet Station in Central Jakarta ceased serving KRL passengers on 1 September 2026 after more than a century of operation, as part of its integration with Sudirman Baru/BNI City Station. The station first opened on 1 August 1922 as part of the Tanah Abang–Manggarai railway line. Its name derives from the area's history as a rubber plantation, with the nearby Karet Tengsin district linked to a Chinese philanthropist named Tan Tieng Shin.

IHSG Opens Up 0.46% at 6,555, Will the Market Rally Continue?

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened higher on Tuesday, rising 0.46% to 6,555.61, as investors weighed domestic economic data releases and escalating US-Iran tensions. Market participants are also monitoring new government policies on export proceeds and Bank Indonesia's revised liquidity incentives. The index gained 4.64% over August 2026.

Fact Check: Did Prabowo, Raffi Ahmad Promote a Rp600,000 Motorcycle Program?

Tempo's fact-checking team has found that viral videos claiming President Prabowo Subianto and celebrity Raffi Ahmad are promoting a Rp600,000 motorcycle scheme are fraudulent. The audio in the videos was manipulated using artificial intelligence, and the footage was taken from unrelated events such as a PKB anniversary speech and a government coordination meeting. The scam, spread through imposter social media accounts, aims to lure victims into paying administrative fees for a non-existent bargain.

IHSG Opens Higher, Seen Rangebound-to-Firmer as Asian and Wall Street Markets Fall on Iran-US Conflict

The Jakarta Composite Index opened higher on Tuesday after MSCI rebalancing, with analysts expecting a sideways-to-firmer session. Sentiment was pressured by renewed Iran-US conflict that lifted oil prices and weighed on Asian and Wall Street markets. Key US payrolls and inflation data due this week and next are also in focus.

When Gentleness Becomes the Path to Uniting Hearts

This reflective piece explores the Islamic teaching that gentleness, rooted in divine mercy, is more effective than harshness in winning hearts and guiding others. Drawing on Qur'anic verse Ali Imran 159 and classical commentaries, it argues that leaders, teachers, and parents achieve deeper influence through compassion, consultation, and forgiveness rather than force or severity.

Israeli Minister Enters Al-Aqsa Mosque Compound, Calls for Synagogue to Be Built

Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has again stormed the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied East Jerusalem, calling for a Jewish temple to be built at the site. The incursion, conducted under the protection of Israeli occupation forces, has drawn condemnation from the Jerusalem Governorate as a dangerous escalation and a violation of the site's historical and legal status quo. Ben-Gvir, a far-right politician, has repeatedly carried out such provocative actions since taking office in 2022.

Minister appoints Mojokerto Regency as host of 2027 National Village Day

Minister of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions Yandri Susanto has designated Mojokerto Regency, East Java, as the host of the 2027 National Village Day. The minister cited the region's rich cultural heritage and consistent achievements in village development, including attaining 'Desa Mandiri' status. Mojokerto's regent welcomed the appointment as a strategic opportunity to showcase the area as a hub of rural innovation.

Amran Dismisses 27 Agriculture Ministry Officials in August over Budget Irregularities and Online Gambling

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has dismissed 27 echelon officials from the Ministry of Agriculture throughout August 2026. Thirteen were permanently removed for involvement in online gambling, while fourteen were suspended over alleged budget irregularities involving billions of rupiah. The minister framed the actions as part of efforts to strengthen bureaucratic integrity and discipline within the civil service.