Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 1 September 2026

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Banda Aceh Police Chief Transferred to Polri Headquarters Following Internal Investigation

The Chief of Banda Aceh City Police, Kombes Andi Kirana, has been transferred to the Polri Headquarters' Headquarters Service (Yanma) following an investigation by the Police Internal Affairs Division (Propam). The National Police Chief's decision follows intensive questioning of both the Police Chief and the Narcotics Unit Head.

Komdigi Prohibits Expiry of Remaining Internet Quota; Facts Regarding Rollover Packages

The Ministry of Communication and Digital (Komdigi) has issued a circular prohibiting telecommunications operators from allowing unused internet data to expire. The regulation follows a Constitutional Court decision and prohibits operators from charging additional fees to retain remaining data balances.

Yesterday's Highlights: 13 Types of Asset Forfeiture Proposed and Former North Minahasa Regent Arrested

A summary of recent significant legal developments in Indonesia, including legislative proposals for asset seizure and high-profile corruption arrests. The report also covers enforcement actions against illegal mining and forest fires in East Kalimantan.

REF 2026: Bank Indonesia Riau States Investment and Palm Oil Downstreaming are Keys to Riau's Economic Growth

The Bank Indonesia Riau Representative Office hosted the 2nd Riau Economic Forum (REF) 2026 to discuss strategies for inclusive and sustainable economic growth. The forum highlighted the critical role of investment and downstream processing in commodities like palm oil and coconut to boost the province's regional economy.

US Army Secretary Resigns Amid Reports of Tension with Secretary of Defense

US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll has tendered his resignation following reports of friction with Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. The departure leaves the US Army without permanent leadership at a critical time during the ongoing conflict in Iran.

Nepal Flash Flood Update: 933 People Trapped in Hydroelectric Power Plant Tunnels

Rescue operations in Nepal have intensified as military teams, supported by experts from China and India, attempt to reach 933 workers trapped in hydroelectric tunnels following devastating Himalayan floods. The disaster, triggered by glacier collapses, has resulted in over 900 deaths and left thousands missing across the region.

Yesterday's Politics: PPPK Teachers May Join CPNS Selection by 2027, Amid Decile Evaluation Plans

Recent political developments in Indonesia include new opportunities for PPPK teachers to transition to CPNS status starting in 2027 and the formation of a cross-agency team to evaluate welfare decile data. Additionally, President Prabowo Subianto addressed criticisms regarding his 'large' cabinet and officially received his NU membership card.

AAJI Reveals Causes of 20.2% Negative Growth in Sharia Unit Premiums in First Half of 2026

The Indonesian Life Insurance Association (AAJI) reported a 20.2% decline in Sharia unit premiums during the first half of 2026, primarily due to the industry-wide spin-off process of Sharia business units. Despite this temporary slowdown, industry leaders remain optimistic about the long-term growth potential of the Sharia sector once independent entities are established.

Jakarta Update: Rp8 LRT Fares and Kebon Kelapa Fire

A summary of recent significant events in Jakarta, including the introduction of special low fares for the upcoming Kelapa Gading-Manggarai LRT route and a major fire in Kebon Kelapa. The report also covers the Jakarta provincial government's proposed 2026 budget amendments and official denials regarding CCTV tampering during protests.

Empowered Village Fund Distribution in NTB Reaches Rp 16.5 Billion for 55 Villages

The distribution of the Thematic Empowered Village Programme funds in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) has reached Rp 16.5 billion, benefiting 55 villages with Rp 300 million each. The provincial government aims to utilise these funds to boost local sectors such as agriculture, livestock, and tourism through village-owned enterprises.

Three Large Companies Set for IPO, Here Are the Details

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) has revealed that seven companies are currently in its IPO pipeline, including three large-scale firms with assets exceeding Rp250 billion. The pipeline spans the energy, healthcare, and industrial sectors, though overall IPO activity has slowed compared to last year. The latest company to announce its listing is PT Swayasa Prakarsa Tbk, a research-based healthcare product manufacturer.

China ready to cooperate on development with Kyrgyzstan

Chinese President Xi Jinping has expressed China's readiness to align development strategies with Kyrgyzstan and deepen cooperation across all fields. He highlighted the steady progress of major projects such as the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway, which he said supports development, benefits the people, and promotes regional peace and prosperity.

Trade Ministry: Rising demand drives increase in gold export benchmark price

Indonesia's Trade Ministry has raised the export benchmark price (HPE) and reference price (HR) for gold for the first period of September 2026, citing increased global demand amid limited supply. The ministry attributed the rise to currency depreciation, falling bond yields, and expectations of interest rate cuts by major central banks. The new HPE is set at USD 142,154.10 per kilogram, up 7.87 percent from the previous period.

Prices of Pertamax Turbo, Dexlite, and Pertamina Dex Rise, Here Are the Details

Pertamina Patra Niaga has increased the prices of three non-subsidised fuel products—Pertamax Turbo, Dexlite, and Pertamina Dex—effective 1 September 2026. The adjustment follows the government-set formula based on global crude oil prices, the rupiah exchange rate, taxes, and other factors. Prices for Pertamax 92 and Pertamax Green 95 remain unchanged.

Bahlil Proposes Electricity Subsidy Increase to Rp117.84 Trillion for 2027

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has proposed raising the electricity subsidy in the 2027 State Budget Draft to Rp117.84 trillion, up from Rp100.83 trillion in 2026. The increase is driven by higher assumptions for the Indonesian Crude Price, a weaker rupiah, and inflation. Bahlil also proposed higher subsidised diesel and kerosene volumes, citing fairness for eastern regions still reliant on kerosene.

Sugarcane Farmers from Cirebon Head to Jakarta for Protest at State Palace

Hundreds of sugarcane farmers from Cirebon Regency departed for Jakarta on Monday night to join a nationwide protest demanding an increase in the government purchase price for sugar. The farmers are calling for the price to be raised from Rp15,500 to Rp16,500 per kilogram, citing rising production costs. Previous lobbying efforts at ministry level have failed to produce an agreement.

Chinese sci-fi IP and digital culture enliven Worldcon in California

Chinese science fiction intellectual property and digital culture products from Chengdu drew significant attention at the 84th World Science Fiction Convention in Southern California. International figures praised the growing global interest in Chinese sci-fi and the innovative use of modern science in Chinese writing. The Chengdu sci-fi community aims to strengthen international exchange and cooperation through the event.

Bareskrim Assists in Search for Fugitive in Murder of Depok Primary School Teacher Found Dead in Bogor

Police are intensifying their search for the suspected killer of Arifianti, a 41-year-old primary school teacher whose body was found on a roadside in Gunung Putri, Bogor. The National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) and West Java Regional Police have been called in to support the manhunt. Authorities have identified the suspect and issued a wanted list (DPO).

Interior Dayak Tribe Granted Privilege: Short and Tattooed Can Join TNI

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) to adjust recruitment requirements for members of the interior Dayak tribe, including exemptions for traditional tattoos and height. The directive follows a meeting with TBBR leader Panglima Jilah and has been confirmed by TNI and defence officials. The move is intended to provide greater opportunities for indigenous Dayak people to serve in the military.

Gold Prices Slump to Two-Week Low as Silver Shines

Gold prices have fallen to their lowest level in two weeks as investors weigh the prospect of further interest rate hikes by the US Federal Reserve. Hawkish comments from Fed Chair Kevin Warsh and rising oil prices have strengthened inflation concerns, pressuring the precious metal. Silver, by contrast, has continued to gain ground.

Pangandaran Regent Safe After Bridge Collapse Following Inauguration

Pangandaran Regent Citra Pitriyami has confirmed she is safe and healthy after the Pongpet suspension bridge collapsed moments after its inauguration. The incident occurred as officials and residents were crossing the newly built structure. Authorities confirmed there were no fatalities, while the Army explained that a sling cable on the left side had detached from its main anchor, causing the bridge to tilt.

Indonesia Steps Up Forest Fire Response as September Becomes 'Battleground'

Indonesia's Forestry Ministry is intensifying its forest fire response throughout September 2026, deploying weather modification, aerial water-bombing, and an additional 1,000 ground personnel as delayed rainfall prolongs the crisis. Minister Raja Juli Antoni has described September as a 'battleground', with nearly 286,000 hectares already scorched nationwide due to El Niño conditions and illegal slash-and-burn practices. The government is prioritising hotspot areas in Kalimantan and Sumatra while managing frontline fatigue through structured rotations.

Number of Suspects in DPR Demonstration Riot Rises to 49

Polda Metro Jaya has increased the number of suspects in the riot during a demonstration near the DPR/MPR building in Jakarta on 27 August to 49. Of these, 44 are adults handled by the General Criminal Investigation Directorate, while five are minors in conflict with the law. The figure is the result of verification and synchronisation of data from 322 people initially detained, with the remaining 273 released after thorough examination.

Mount Ibu in North Maluku Erupts This Morning, Spewing Ash up to 500 Metres

Mount Ibu on Halmahera Island, North Maluku, erupted on Tuesday morning, sending a thick grey ash column approximately 500 metres above its summit. The eruption was recorded by seismographs with a maximum amplitude of 28 mm and lasted 54 seconds. Authorities are monitoring the situation as the ash drifted northeast.

Yesterday: KUR disbursement of Rp103.8 trillion to BNI City travelator

A roundup of key economic news from Monday (31/8) covers BRI's disbursement of Rp103.8 trillion in people's business credit to over two million debtors, the Energy Ministry's efforts to improve LPG subsidy targeting, and PT KAI's plan to build a travelator linking Karet and BNI City stations. Other items include Indonesia's aviation safety rating above the global average and the dismissal of 13 Agriculture Ministry officials over online gambling.

Trump Truly Frustrated at Not Yet Winning Against Iran, Here Is the Proof

The latest escalation between the United States and Iran reflects Washington's growing frustration over the slow impact of economic sanctions on Tehran. Analysts suggest the US military strike on Larak Island was an attempt to break a stalemate rather than a full strategic shift. Meanwhile, a former US counterterrorism adviser has warned that nuclear options could become realistic if Washington insists on regime change.

Ireland Excludes Crypto from Tax-Advantaged Investment Accounts

The Irish Department of Finance has announced plans to exclude crypto assets and derivatives from new tax-advantaged investment accounts, categorising them as high-risk instruments. This move reflects a global regulatory trend that may influence future digital asset policies and investor sentiment in active markets like Indonesia.

Indonesia's Budi Gunadi Sadikin Says Prabowo Backed His WHO Chief Bid

Indonesian Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has stated that his candidacy for WHO director-general is a direct mandate from President Prabowo Subianto, who wants Indonesia to have representation at the top of a UN agency. Sadikin emphasised the need for a Global South leader to champion developing countries' interests within the WHO. The election process is ongoing, with four candidates currently in the running.

How to Identify Unknown WhatsApp Callers with New Feature

WhatsApp has introduced three new security features aimed at giving users greater control over their accounts and protection against scams. The updates include Passkey login, stronger two-step verification, and caller identification details for unknown numbers on Android. The platform says the changes will help users verify themselves more quickly and make informed decisions before answering calls.

Minister Amran Delivers Agricultural Machinery to Karawang Farm Labourers Within Hours

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has delivered a combine harvester to a group of farm labourers in Karawang, West Java, just hours after meeting them during a field visit. The minister also pledged to replace a stolen tractor and announced a regulatory change to prioritise agricultural machinery assistance for landless farm workers. The move aims to boost productivity and improve the welfare of labourers who previously lacked access to government aid.

How to deactivate BPJS Kesehatan for deceased participants

Families of deceased BPJS Kesehatan participants can now deactivate their membership online via WhatsApp, avoiding a visit to a BPJS office. The process requires a death certificate and the participant's identity documents, and is particularly important for self-employed participants who must pay monthly premiums while their status remains active. Updating the data helps prevent administrative problems and maintains the accuracy of JKN membership records.

Criminal Element Found, Death of West Papua TVRI Presenter Elevated to Investigation

Police in West Papua have upgraded the case of deceased TVRI presenter Suryanto Tuwing Idorway from inquiry to investigation after finding indications of a criminal act. Investigators have examined 23 witnesses and received autopsy results, with further expert testimony expected. The case is being handled under Article 466 paragraph (3) of the Criminal Code concerning assault resulting in death.

The Facts Behind IAKN Kupang Rector's Assault Report Against Former Rector

A dispute over a civil servant promotion has escalated into an alleged assault at the Christian State Religious Institute (IAKN) in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara. Rector I Made Suardana has filed a police report claiming former rector Harun Natonis struck him in the chest, while Natonis denies the accusation and plans to file a counter-report for defamation. Police have confirmed receiving the report and are awaiting the results of a medical examination before determining the appropriate charges.

Five Social Assistance Programmes Disbursed in September 2026 and How to Check Eligibility

The Indonesian government is scheduled to disburse several social assistance programmes in September 2026, the final month of the third quarter. These include the Family Hope Programme (PKH), Non-Cash Food Assistance (BPNT), Atensi YAPI orphan assistance, health insurance contribution assistance (PBI-JK), and the Indonesia Smart Programme (PIP). Beneficiaries can verify their eligibility and payment status through the Ministry of Social Affairs' Cek Bansos website or mobile application.

Breast Harassment Perpetrators Still At Large in Sewon, Bantul

Two incidents of street sexual harassment involving groping have occurred in the Sewon district of Bantul within a single week in August. Local police are currently investigating the cases to identify the perpetrators, who remain at large.

Ibam's Sentence Increased in Chromebook Corruption Case

The Jakarta High Court has increased the prison sentence of Ibrahim Arief, a former IT consultant at the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research and Technology, from four to five years in the Chromebook procurement corruption case. The appellate court also imposed a Rp 5 billion restitution payment, citing the need to recover state losses. The case has already seen former minister Nadiem Makarim sentenced to 10 years in prison.

MSCI Decision Triggers Foreign Sell-Off in These Shares

Foreign investors turned net sellers on the Indonesia Stock Exchange on Monday, recording a net sell of Rp434.2 billion ahead of the MSCI index rebalancing. PT Charoen Pokphand Indonesia bore the brunt of the selling after being dropped from the MSCI Global Standard Index. The Jakarta Composite Index still managed a slight gain despite the heightened volatility.

PLN electricity tariffs unchanged in September 2026, here is the full list

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has confirmed that PLN electricity tariffs for September 2026 will remain unchanged, continuing the rates set for the July–September 2026 quarter. The decision covers 13 non-subsidised customer groups and all subsidised customers, and is intended to protect purchasing power, support industrial competitiveness, and provide business certainty.

IPO Landscape 2025 vs 2026: Fewer Listings, Smaller Issuers, Wild Stock Surges

Indonesia's IPO market has contracted sharply in 2026, with only seven companies listing by late August compared to 22 in the same period of 2025, and funds raised falling by nearly 80%. Despite the decline, a similar proportion of newly listed stocks have experienced dramatic price surges, with some small offerings still delivering triple-digit gains. The contrast highlights a market where shrinking primary issuance coexists with continued speculative fervour in early trading.

Police name 49 suspects in riot during protest at DPR

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police have named 49 people as suspects in connection with rioting during a protest near the DPR/MPR complex in Senayan on Thursday. Of these, 44 are adults and five are minors in conflict with the law. The police have also clarified that three individuals found carrying sharp weapons are included in the total, not additional suspects.

Today Purbaya Auctions 9 Debt Securities, Offering Coupons Up to 7.25%

The Indonesian government is holding a rupiah-denominated government bond auction today, offering nine series with indicative target of Rp32 trillion and maximum absorption of Rp48 trillion. The auction includes three Treasury bills and six fixed-rate government bonds, with the highest coupon at 7.25% for the FR0110 series maturing in 2032. Settlement is scheduled for 3 September 2026, and the auction is conducted through the Bank Indonesia system using a multiple-price method.

House Commission IX Urges Haze Emergency Status in Regions Affected by Forest and Land Fires

Deputy Chairman of House Commission IX Yahya Zaini has called on the government to declare an extraordinary event (KLB) status for haze in areas worst affected by forest and land fires, particularly in Kalimantan. He argues that the surge in acute respiratory infections must be treated as an exposure-based health emergency rather than a routine increase in patient visits. The West Kalimantan Health Office has recorded 165,727 ISPA cases from January to August 2026, with a notable upward trend since late May.

Organising homes, caring for residents

Surabaya is expanding access to decent housing through programmes such as Rutilahu, Rusunami and central government BSPS assistance. The city faces challenges including land scarcity, rising property prices and changing family structures. The article argues that housing policy must go beyond physical repairs to address the broader economic and social needs of families.

Agriculture Minister dismisses 27 officials in August over budget irregularities and online gambling

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has removed 27 echelon officials from the Ministry of Agriculture during August 2026 over alleged budget irregularities and involvement in online gambling. Thirteen officials were permanently dismissed for verified gambling activity, while 14 others were removed over suspected misuse of billions of rupiah. The minister said the move is part of efforts to strengthen bureaucratic integrity and that cases involving state losses will be referred to law enforcement.

Church Outraged as Zionists Continue to Expel Palestinian Christians

The Palestinian Presidential Higher Committee for Church Affairs has condemned the demolition of a Christian family's home in Birzeit and the forced eviction of another family in Taybeh. The committee described the actions as part of Israel's systematic policy of land seizure and colonial settlement expansion. It called on the international community to take serious measures to halt the violations and hold those responsible accountable.

Fuel prices rise on 1 September 2026, Pertamax Turbo reaches Rp19,600

Pertamina has raised prices for several non-subsidised fuels effective 1 September 2026, while subsidised fuels remain unchanged. Pertamax Turbo increased from Rp18,300 to Rp19,600 per litre, with Dexlite and Pertamina Dex also seeing significant rises. The adjustment follows the government formula based on global crude prices, the rupiah exchange rate and taxes.

Water Flows, Subak Abian Farmers in Karangasem Harvest Shallots During Dry Season

Farmers belonging to Subak Abian Samuh in Karangasem, Bali, have successfully harvested shallots during the 2026 dry season after irrigation water began flowing to their fields in June. The regent, I Gusti Putu Parwata, attended the harvest and highlighted that reliable water access could increase planting cycles from two or three to as many as four or five per year. The development is expected to boost farmer incomes and keep around 20 hectares of land productive year-round.

Algerian man's 'ritual' soak in Sunter Lake causes commotion

An Algerian national was evacuated from Sunter Lake in North Jakarta after spending hours immersed in the water, claiming he was performing a spiritual ritual. Firefighters negotiated with the man for several hours before handing him over to immigration authorities. Immigration officials revealed the man holds an investor KITAS and is not mentally ill, but was allegedly seeking attention in order to be repatriated.

Official: Latest Fuel Prices at Pertamina Petrol Stations as of 1 September 2026

PT Pertamina (Persero) has adjusted prices for several non-subsidised fuel products effective 1 September 2026, with increases for Pertamax Turbo, Pertamina Dex, and Dexlite. The company cited global crude oil prices, the rupiah exchange rate, taxes, and public purchasing power as factors. Prices for subsidised fuels and Pertamax remain unchanged.

Prabowo Explains Why Indonesia Rejected IMF Loan

President Prabowo Subianto has revealed that Indonesia turned down a loan offer from the International Monetary Fund, citing the country's strong financial position. The Finance Minister rejected the offer during a visit to Washington DC. Prabowo emphasised the government's commitment to reducing foreign debt dependence and prioritising domestic investment.