Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 20 September 2026

Showing 501-570 of 570 articles

Ford recalls Mustang Mach-E due to battery module error

Ford has issued a recall for 86 units of the 2023-2025 Mustang Mach-E equipped with lithium iron phosphate batteries. The recall is due to a software error in the battery control module that incorrectly reports battery health, potentially leading to unexpected power loss.

Weekly Roundup: Finance Minister's Commitment to State Budget Amidst Fortified Rice Issues

This weekly summary covers key Indonesian economic and regulatory developments, including the Finance Minister's pledge to maintain the state budget and the discovery of violations in 25 fortified rice brands. It also highlights significant customs seizures, forestry law enforcement, and potential changes to e-commerce regulations.

Facing Dualism, IPHI Seeks Path to Reconciliation

The Indonesian Hajj Brotherhood Association (IPHI) is seeking to resolve internal leadership dualism during its VIII Congress in Jakarta. Prominent academics and IPHI leadership emphasise that reconciliation is essential to harness the potential of hundreds of thousands of Hajj alumni for the benefit of the nation.

Santri Literature Serves as a Space to Nurture Intellectual Tradition

The launch of the National Santri Literary Anthology highlights the significant potential of Islamic boarding schools in enriching Indonesia's literary and cultural heritage. The event brought together scholars, academics, and writers to discuss how literary creativity can reflect the intellectual traditions of the pesantren environment.

Samudera Indonesia Injects Rp40.7 Billion into Two Subsidiaries

Shipping and logistics firm PT Samudrol Indonesia Tbk (SMDR) has injected a total of Rp40.7 billion into its subsidiaries, PT Samudera Properti Indonesia and PT Perusahaan Pelayaran Cumawis. The capital injection aims to strengthen the subsidiaries' capital structures and support business development in the property and shipping sectors.

Bird's Eye Chilli Prices in North Gorontalo Hit Rp200,000 per Kilogram

The price of cleaned bird's eye chilli has surged to Rp200,000 per kg in North Gorontalo due to supply shortages caused by crop failures during the dry season. Local traders are now forced to source supplies from Central Sulawesi and Surabaya to meet demand.

DPR Commission X Supports Free Schooling up to State Universities: Education is Every Child's Right

The Deputy Chairman of Commission X of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Lalu Hadrian, has expressed support for President Prabowo Subianto's plan to provide free education in state institutions, including universities. However, he emphasised the need for comprehensive budget planning to ensure that quality, research, and lecturer welfare are not compromised by the removal of tuition fees.

Malaysian Transport Minister Resigns in Protest Over Najib Razak's Pardon

Malaysian Transport Minister Anthony Loke has resigned from the cabinet to protest the conditional pardon granted to former Prime Minister Najib Razak. While Loke is stepping down, other ministers from the Democratic Action Party (DAP) will remain in the government to ensure political stability.

Bantul Market Tailors Struggle as Footfall Declines

Clothing alteration services at Bantul Market are facing a significant drop in revenue due to declining market visitors and the rise of e-commerce. Local tailors report that while business peaks during festive seasons, the shift towards online shopping has left many struggling to maintain daily earnings.

Global Survey: 98 Per Cent of Indonesians Consider Religion Very Important in Life

Recent global surveys, including the World Values Survey, reveal that Indonesia holds a leading position in terms of religious intensity. Data shows that 98 per cent of Indonesians view religion as vital to their lives, reflecting a deeply religious social fabric.

Weekly Roundup: 1,276 Nutrition Service Units Suspended and Unauthorised Skin Boosters in Indonesia

This weekly news summary covers the suspension of over 1,200 nutrition service units by the National Nutrition Agency due to hygiene concerns, and BPOM's warning regarding unauthorised skin booster products. It also highlights findings on graduate unemployment rates and the government's official holiday schedule for 2027.

Key Points to Note Regarding the OJK Regulation on IDX Demutualisation

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has officially issued POJK Number 13 of 2026, outlining the new framework for the demutualisation of the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX). The regulation introduces significant changes to shareholder eligibility, ownership limits, and the structural separation of regulatory and business functions within the exchange.

5 Key Facts Regarding Polri's Anti-Corruption Corps Seizure of Rp 4.8 Trillion Land in Bali

The Indonesian National Police's Anti-Corruption Corps has seized 23 hectares of land in Badung, Bali, as part of an investigation into the alleged encroachment of state assets. The estimated value of the land has surged to approximately Rp 4.8 trillion due to its high potential for tourism and modern residential development.

Jakarta Lights-Out Event Cuts 74 Tons of CO2e on World Ozone Day

A one-hour lights-out initiative in Jakarta to mark World Ozone Day successfully reduced carbon emissions by 74.23 tons of CO2e. The event, coordinated with PLN UID Jakarta Raya, resulted in significant electricity and cost savings, highlighting the importance of sustainable energy-saving habits among citizens and businesses.

Middle East Turmoil Drives Energy Transition, but Impact on Emissions Not Yet Visible

Geopolitical instability in the Middle East is pushing nations to accelerate the transition from fossil fuels to clean energy, yet global greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise. Despite increased interest in renewables, global investment in solar and wind power has seen a recent decline, and many nations remain caught between supporting green energy and expanding fossil fuel production.

Two UIN Malang Lecturers Reveal How East Javanese Muslim Women Negotiate Equality in Marriage

Researchers from UIN Malang have presented findings on how Muslim women in East Java navigate gender equality within marriage. The study suggests that maintaining conventional gender roles is often a strategic choice rooted in religious understanding rather than mere submission.

Weekly Legal Roundup: ATR/BPN Sting Operation to Febrie Case Transfer

A summary of significant legal developments in Indonesia over the past week, including a major corruption sting at the Ministry of Agraria and Spatial Planning. The report also covers presidential orders regarding forest fire investigations and the transfer of high-profile corruption suspects to the South Jakarta Prosecutor's Office.

Riyadh Attacked by Houthi Missiles, Black Smoke Rises Near Airport

The Houthi group in Yemen has claimed responsibility for missile and drone attacks targeting sensitive areas in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. While Saudi air defences intercepted the projectiles, the incident has heightened global concerns regarding the stability of energy supplies and maritime trade routes.

Mother Orangutan Embraces Her Infant During Evacuation Amidst Forest Fire Impacted Land

A mother and infant orangutan were successfully rescued from a palm oil plantation in Ketapang, West Kalimantan, following a forest fire. The evacuation, conducted by BKSDA West Kalimantan and YIARI, highlights the growing impact of wildfires on local wildlife habitats.

JK: Two-State Solution is the Middle Ground for Palestine-Israel Conflict

Former Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla has advocated for the two-state solution as the most viable path to achieving dignity and recognition for both Palestine and Israel. Speaking at the Global Town Hall 2026, he highlighted the challenges posed by military imbalances and the upcoming Israeli general elections.

PAN States Zulhas Has No Ambition to Run for President: Always Supports Prabowo

The National Mandate Party (PAN) has confirmed that its Chairman, Zulkifli Hasan, does not intend to run for president in 2029. The party remains committed to supporting President Prabowo Subianto's administration and ensuring the success of government programmes.

Weekly Politics: Aircraft Carrier Arrival to Suahasil Appointed Finance Minister

A weekly roundup of significant Indonesian national events, including the arrival of the aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi in Jakarta and the appointment of Suahasil Nazara as Finance Minister. The report also covers updates on disaster budget increases and new regulations regarding loud sound systems.

Prabowo Reveals Indonesia to Produce Petrol from Coal

President Prabowo Subianto has announced plans to develop coal-based petrol production to bolster national energy security and reduce reliance on imports. This initiative follows the successful implementation of palm oil-based biodiesel, which has already enabled Indonesia to achieve diesel self-sufficiency.

Golkar Confirms Bahlil Will Not Run for President in 2029: Aiming for Legislative Seat in Papua

Golkar Party Secretary-General M. Sarmuji has confirmed that Chairman Bahlil Lahadalia does not intend to run for the presidency in 2029. Instead, Bahlil plans to contest a legislative seat representing Papua to encourage other ministers to take responsibility for increasing the party's parliamentary presence.

Ahmad Yani Basuki Re-elected Unanimously to Lead PP IPHI 2026-2031

Retired Major General Dr H. Ahmad Yani Basuki has been re-elected as the Chairman of the Central Board of the Indonesian Hajj Brotherhood Association (PP IPHI) for the 2026-2031 term. The association aims to strengthen energy and water networks while advocating for government improvements in Hajj services and infrastructure.

Official School Basic Competency Test to Commence on 22 September; Passing Grades Announced

The Basic Competency Test (SKD) for the 2026 official school admissions is scheduled to begin on 22 September. The Ministry of PANRB has released the mandatory passing grades for various test components and warned candidates against fraudulent recruitment schemes.

Kiai Tidjani Djauhari, Gontor Alumnus from Madura with Global Influence

An exploration of the life and legacy of KH Moh. Tidjani Djauhari, a prominent scholar from Madura whose influence extended to international Islamic organisations. The article traces his journey from the Gontor boarding school to his significant role in the Muslim World League in Makkah.

Bribery Case Clarifies Following KPK Search of ATR/BPN Director General's Residence

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has intensified its investigation into a bribery scandal involving the unblocking of Summarecon's building rights in Bogor. During a search of the Director General of ATR/BPN's residence, investigators discovered electronic evidence of illicit money flows, alongside significant seizures of documents and cash.

Stock Market Performance Moves Dynamically in Recent Week, JCI Closes at 6,441

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) reported a dynamic trading week from 14-18 September 2026, with the Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) closing at 6,441.159, marking a 1.53 per cent decline from the previous week. Foreign investors recorded a net sell of Rp 1.79 trillion during this period, contributing to a year-to-scale net sell of Rp 74.36 trillion.

Jakarta and Surrounding Areas Hit by Rain, BMKG Reveals Effects of Weather Modification

The Indonesian Agency for Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics (BMKG) has confirmed that recent rainfall in Jakarta and West Java was the result of weather modification operations. These operations, funded by the Jakarta Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) and state-owned enterprises, were conducted to manage atmospheric dynamics.

12 Elite Divers Deployed for Day 8 Search for Virgo Transport 8 Victims

Basarnas has deployed a specialised team of 12 elite divers to continue the underwater search for victims of the Virgo Transport 8 shipwreck in the Java Sea. The operation involves a rotation of personnel and the deployment of the TB Jaya Dragon to bolster search efforts alongside the Indonesian Navy.

Minister for Transmigration Urges Local Academics to Build Papua in Tribute to Late Uncen Rector

The Minister for Transmigration, M. Iftitah Sulaiman Suryanagara, paid his respects to the late Rector of Cenderawasih University, Professor Oscar Oswald. During his visit, the Minister emphasised the vital role of local academics and scientific collaboration in driving economic growth and self-sufficiency in Papua.

Warren Buffett Steps Down as Berkshire Chairman After 60 Years

Investment legend Warren Buffett has officially resigned as Chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, transitioning to the role of Chairman Emeritus. His eldest son, Howard Buffett, will succeed him as Non-Executive Chairman, marking the end of a six-decade era for the trillion-dollar conglomerate.

Coordinating Minister: MSMEs Need Market Access, Not Just Training

Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment, Muhaimin Iskandar, emphasised that empowering MSMEs must extend beyond training to include direct market access. Through the '1001 People's Markets' programme, the government aims to connect local producers with wider consumer bases to foster economic independence.

Israeli Airstrikes Kill Son of Gaza Official

An Israeli airstrike in the Gaza Strip has claimed the life of Baseer al-Barsh, the son of Gaza's Ministry of Health Director-General, Munir al-Barsh. The attack, which also killed a ten-year-old girl, occurs amidst ongoing military operations in the region despite previous ceasefire mediation.

Tens of Thousands of Alumni Crowd Gontor to Celebrate 100th Anniversary

Tens of thousands of alumni from Pondok Modern Darussalam Gontor gathered to participate in the 100th-anniversary thanksgiving ceremonies. The event, which included Quranic recitations and acts of gratitude, saw attendance far exceeding the organisers' initial expectations.

OPM Leader Abdon Kisamdu Arrested at Yahukimo Airport

Abdon Kisamdu, the Deputy Commander of the OPM Kodap 35 East Star Battalion, has been apprehended at Nop Goliat Airport in Papua. The arrest follows an intelligence-led operation targeting the individual, who was reportedly attempting to procure firearms in the Yahukimo Regency.

81st Anniversary of PMI South Tangerang: Humanitarian Aid Delivered in Keranggan

The Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) South Tangerang marked its 81st anniversary by providing essential services, including clean water distribution, to drought-stricken residents in Keranggan. The initiative aims to support local government efforts in addressing water scarcity during the prolonged dry season.

Batu City to Host 2026 National KTNA Deliberation and Agro Expo

The National Farmers and Fishermen Alliance (KTNA) will hold its 2026 National Plenary Deliberation in Batu, East Java, to determine the organisation's leadership for the 2026–2031 period. The event, held alongside the KTNA Agro Expo, aims to strengthen the agribusiness ecosystem through collaboration between farmers, the government, and the private sector.

Jakarta Update: Cipinang Prison, Waste Management, and Maritime Festival in Thousand Islands

A roundup of recent events in Jakarta, including security raids at Cipinang Prison and initiatives to improve public information transparency for waste management. The report also covers emergency responses to a fire in Cakung and tourism recovery efforts in the Thousand Islands.

Intelligence Report Reveals US Military Nearly Engaged Chinese Ship Due to AI Error

An intelligence error involving artificial intelligence nearly triggered a military confrontation between the United States and China. The incident occurred when an AI-assisted report incorrectly identified a Chinese vessel in the Middle East as transporting nuclear weapons components.

60-Minute Lights Out Initiative Reduces Carbon Emissions by 74.23 Tonnes in Jakarta

A coordinated one-hour lights out campaign in Jakarta to mark World Ozone Day successfully reduced carbon emissions by 74.23 tonnes of CO2e. The initiative also resulted in significant electricity savings and a reduction in energy costs across the province.

Ministry of Health: Four in Ten Schoolchildren Suffer from Tooth Decay

The Indonesian Ministry of Health has revealed that 41% of schoolchildren screened under the Free Health Check-up programme suffer from dental caries. Deputy Health Minister Prof Dante Saksono Harbuwono is now calling for enhanced preventive and promotive measures within schools to address this issue.

‘I can only wait and hope’: Haze hits livelihoods in Sumatra as workers toil in unhealthy air

Ongoing wildfires in Sumatra and Kalimantan have triggered severe transboundary haze, causing significant economic and health losses across Indonesia. Estimates suggest the situation could cost the nation up to 123 trillion rupiah, as local livelihoods, tourism, and small businesses suffer due to plummeting air quality.

Commentary: Regional haze casts a pall on ASEAN’s influence

The recurring issue of transboundary haze in Southeast Asia serves as a critical test of ASEAN's credibility and its ability to enforce regional commitments. While the bloc possesses monitoring mechanisms, the principle of non-interference and the reliance on national-level enforcement limit its capacity to hold entities accountable for forest and peatland fires.

Bank BSN Opens Blessed Investment Opportunities with Grand Launch of MBC Gold

PT Bank Syariah Nasional (Bank BSN) has partnered with PT Mentari Bayt Coin (MBC) to introduce gold-based financial solutions. The collaboration aims to strengthen the Sharia financial ecosystem by providing high-purity gold products to customers.

Man in West Jakarta Caught with Crystal Meth During Police Raid

A 31-year-old man was apprehended by the Tamansari Metro Police after being found in possession of crystal methamphetamine during a stationary raid. The suspect, who tested positive for narcotics, admitted to purchasing the drugs for Rp 100,000.

Wellness Tourism Set To Boom In Bali And Around Indonesia

The Indonesian Ministry of Tourism has announced a strategic focus on gastronomy, wellness, and maritime tourism to drive national growth. Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana aims to attract high-spending, quality tourists by promoting holistic wellness experiences, ranging from herbal medicine to spiritual healing.

DKI Jakarta to Host 32nd National MTQ

The province of DKI Jakarta has been officially selected to host the 32nd National Musabaqah Tilawatil Qur'an (MTQ) in 2027. The announcement was made during the closing ceremony of the 31st National MTQ in Semarang, coinciding with Jakarta's 500th anniversary celebrations.

Managing National Wealth through Political Policy: Agrarian Reform and Strengthening the People's Economy

Azis Subekti, a member of the Indonesian House of Representatives, argues that political policy must go beyond mere regulation to address structural economic inequalities. He highlights the paradox of Indonesia's abundant natural resources failing to translate into widespread prosperity due to concentrated land and capital ownership.

East Kalimantan Delegation Named Overall Champions of 31st National MTQ

The delegation from East Kalimantan has secured the overall championship title at the 31st National Musabaqah Tilawatil Qur'an (MTQ) held in Semarang. Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar noted that if the province defends its title next year, the MTQ rotating trophy will remain permanently in East Kalimantan.

Two Illegal Prescription Drug Dealers Arrested in Tangerang, 1,623 Pills Seized

Police in Tangerang have apprehended two individuals involved in the illegal distribution of unauthorised prescription drugs. Authorities seized 1,623 pills, including Tramadol and Alprazolam, alongside cash suspected to be proceeds from the illicit sales.

Surya Paloh Hears Proposal for Presidential Threshold to Require Minimum Support from Two Parliamentary Factions

NasDem Party Chairman Surya Paloh has revealed that there are proposals to reform the presidential threshold mechanism. The suggestion involves requiring presidential candidates to secure support from at least two parliamentary factions in the DPR.

Truck with Brake Failure Crashes into Wedding Ceremony in Lumajang, Leaving Two Dead

A fatal accident occurred in Lumajang, East Java, when a truck suffered brake failure while descending a hill. The vehicle ploughed through several cars, motorcycles, and wedding guests, resulting in two fatalities and nine injuries.

Minister of Religious Affairs highlights four key messages from 31st National MTQ

Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar has outlined four strategic priorities following the conclusion of the 31st National Musabaqah Tilawatil Qur'an in Semarang. These include transforming the competition into a learning ecosystem, enhancing inclusivity for people with disabilities, leveraging technology, and maximising the event's economic impact.

KPK Searches Lampri's Residence, Finds Evidence of Alleged Money Flow in ATR/BPN Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has uncovered evidence potentially linked to illicit money flows during a search of the residence of a high-ranking official from the Ministry of Agraria and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN). Investigators seized various documents and electronic evidence to further investigate the corruption case involving land rights in Bogor Regency.

Escalating Conflict: Battles Between Yemeni Forces and Houthis Leave 48 Dead

Clashes between the Saudi-backed Yemeni government and Iran-backed Houthi rebels have intensified, resulting in 48 fatalities in recent hours. The surge in violence follows a period of relative calm and marks a significant escalation in the ongoing civil war.

Central Java Governor states National MTQ brings a sense of peace

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi remarked that the hosting of the 31st National Musabaqah Tilawatil Qur'an (MTQ) in Semarang has fostered a peaceful atmosphere across the region. He highlighted the positive impact of the event on social media discourse and called for sustained development in Quranic education and judging standards.

Russia protests deployment of US Typhon missile systems in Japan

The Russian Foreign Ministry has formally protested the deployment of US-made Typhon missile systems on Japan's Kyushu Island. Moscow has demanded the removal of the land-based systems, asserting that their presence poses a direct threat to Russian security.

Pertamina Dismisses Two Petrol Station Operators for Fraud and Verbal Abuse

Pertamina Patra Niaga has terminated two operators at a petrol station in Denpasar following viral reports of fraudulent practices and poor service. The disciplinary action follows allegations that staff attempted to hide fuel pump displays and behaved aggressively towards customers.

DPR Member Demands Fortified Rice Nutritional Content Matches Claims for Consumer Protection

A member of the Indonesian Parliament's Commission IV has called on businesses to ensure the nutritional content of fortified rice matches its packaging claims. This follows recent findings by the National Food Agency regarding 25 rice brands that allegedly failed to meet national standards, potentially causing significant consumer loss.

DVI requests families of KM Virgo victims to provide data to assist identification

The South Kalimantan Regional Police's Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) team is urging families of missing passengers from the KM Virgo Transport 8 shipwreck to submit antemortem data. This effort aims to facilitate the identification process following the discovery of several deceased victims.

Surya Paloh Describes Asset Forfeiture Bill as Unique, Warns of Potential Controversy

NasDem Party Chairman Surya Paloh has expressed reservations regarding the Asset Forfeiture Bill, noting that while important, it risks creating unnecessary national controversy. Meanwhile, parliamentary leaders have emphasised that the legislation must not be used as a political tool or to target ordinary citizens.

Ministry of Tourism prepares strategies to curb high airfares

The Indonesian Ministry of Tourism is implementing various strategies, including flight subsidies and travel bundling, to address rising airfares that threaten domestic tourism access. The Ministry is coordinating with the Ministry of Transport to manage costs and maintain the growth of national tourism.

Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Investigates 7 Hajj Quota Transfers, 6 Found Indicative of Irregularities

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is investigating suspected irregularities in the transfer of regular Hajj quota numbers in East Java. Out of seven cases under review, six have shown discrepancies in data and documentation, prompting further scrutiny of the transfer process.

Viral Post Allegedly by Purbaya's Wife Reveals Husband's Condition Following Dismissal: Occasional Daydreaming

Social media posts attributed to the wife of former Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa have surfaced, revealing his emotional state following his recent removal from office. The posts depict a more modest lifestyle and suggest that Purbaya is still grappling with disappointment after being replaced by Suahasil Nazara.

Army Chief General Maruli Reveals Locations of Five New Regional Military Commands: NTT, Yogyakarta to Central Papua

The Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Army, General Maruli Simanjuntak, has announced the planned establishment of five new Regional Military Commands (Kodam) across Indonesia. These new commands will focus on territorial security and public welfare, with official inaugurations expected during the 81st TNI Anniversary celebrations.

Central Java Deputy Governor Announces Rp2 Billion Budget for 2,000 Quran Memorisers

The Central Java provincial government has allocated Rp2 billion to provide financial incentives for 2,000 individuals who complete the memorisation of the Quran. The programme aims to support students and the wider community through scholarships and the strengthening of thousands of Islamic boarding schools.

Nusron Wahid Has Resigned from Golkar Party Management

Nusron Wahid, the current Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning, has officially resigned from his position within the Golkar Party's central leadership. While he remains a member of the party, his departure from the board follows a period of distance from recent investigations involving his ministry.

TNI Responds to Regulation Requiring Human Rights Certification for Promotions

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has expressed readiness to implement Human Rights (HAM) certification as a mandatory requirement for personnel promotions. This follows a proposal by the Minister of Human Rights to integrate such certification into the career progression of civil servants, police, and military officers to prevent human rights violations.