Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 21 September 2026

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Press Council holds joint prayer for five journalists who lost contact

The Indonesian Press Council organised a solidarity event and joint prayer session in Jakarta to seek aid for five journalists and three crew members. The group went missing on 7 September 2026 while reporting on volcanic activity at Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait.

China-ASEAN Expo launches AI marketplace to bolster digital cooperation

The 23rd China-ASEAN Expo in Nanning has introduced the first artificial intelligence marketplace designed to connect Chinese AI solutions with ASEAN market needs. The initiative aims to strengthen digital economic cooperation and supports the implementation of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0 Upgrade Protocol.

Managing Rp184 Trillion Hajj Funds, BPKH Prioritises Security and Liquidity

The Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) is employing a conservative investment strategy to manage approximately Rp184 trillion in Hajj funds. The agency focuses on capital security and liquidity, with 70 per cent of its portfolio allocated to state-guaranteed Islamic securities (SBSN).

Pertamina confirms non-subsidised fuel prices remain unchanged as of 21 September

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has clarified that there will be no changes to non-subsidised fuel prices at Pertamina petrol stations starting 21 September 2026. The company issued this statement to debunk social media rumours regarding potential price adjustments.

MP: Two-party requirement for presidential candidates insufficient without an upper limit

A member of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has argued that requiring presidential candidates to be supported by at least two political parties must be accompanied by an upper limit on coalition size. This measure is proposed to ensure the presidential election can produce more than two competing pairs of candidates.

KNKT Conducts Preliminary Investigation into Virgo Transport 8 Ship Incident

The National Transportation Safety Committee (KNKT) is currently conducting an initial investigation into the capsizing of the KM Virgo Transport 8 in the Masalembo waters. Experts have raised concerns regarding whether the vessel's Japanese design is suitable for the high-wave conditions characteristic of Indonesian waters.

Indonesia consolidates 44 district leaders to develop bioethanol

The Indonesian Agriculture Ministry is coordinating with 44 district heads to map land potential and identify suitable commodities for a national bioethanol initiative. The government aims to utilise up to two million hectares of land to produce sugarcane, cassava, and corn as feedstock, supporting the nation's transition to cleaner energy and food self-sufficiency.

Presidential chief of staff inspects Sekolah Rakyat in North Sumatra

Presidential Chief of Staff Abdurachman conducted an inspection of the Sekolah Rakyat programme in North Sumatra to ensure its implementation aligns with the priorities of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka. The visit focused on monitoring school infrastructure and teaching quality, with findings to be reported to relevant ministries for further action.

Ministry of Villages directs additional budget to develop tourist villages

The Minister of Villages and Disadvantaged Regions, Yandri Susanto, has announced that an additional Rp1 trillion budget for 2027 will be allocated to developing tourist and thematic villages. The funds will also support village-owned enterprises (BUMDes) and essential infrastructure projects such as clean water, roads, and bridges.

Indonesia eyes coal liquefaction to boost energy security

The Indonesian government is exploring coal-to-liquid (CTL) technology to convert low-calorie coal into gas and oil to enhance national energy security. Following directives from President Prabowo Subianto, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is evaluating technological partnerships to utilise domestic coal reserves amidst global geopolitical uncertainty.

The Phenomenon of Confused Employees Suddenly Forced to Work with AI

A recent study reveals a significant disconnect between corporate AI implementation strategies and employee communication. While many workers are adopting AI to boost productivity, nearly half remain uncertain about the long-term objectives and the impact of the technology on their future roles.

To Prevent Widespread Forest and Land Fires, Police Intensify Patrols and Hotspot Ground Checking

The South Sumatra Regional Police have launched intensive patrols and ground-checking operations to prevent the spread of forest and land fires. Joint forces including the TNI and BPBD are monitoring high-risk areas and educating local communities on the dangers of land clearing through burning.

Gowa Regent's Office Searched Over Illegal Levies Case

A joint police task force has conducted simultaneous searches at the Gowa Regent's Office and the official residence in South Sulawesi. The raids are part of an ongoing investigation into alleged illegal levies and gratifications related to Building Approval (PBG) and Certificate of Functionality (SLF) processes.

Press Council Names Five Missing Journalists as Press Heroes

The Indonesian Press Council has honoured five journalists who went missing while covering activities at Mount Anak Krakatau, labelling them as heroes of the press. The Council emphasised the importance of coordination with local authorities when reporting from hazardous areas to prevent such tragedies.

Huawei Introduces Next-Generation Stellar AI Campus Network, Preparing AI Campus Infrastructure

At the HUAWEI CONNECT 2026 event, Huawei unveiled its latest Stellar AI Campus Network solution designed to support the growing demands of the AI era. The innovation focuses on high-speed wireless connectivity, comprehensive security, and network autonomy to facilitate the development of intelligent digital campuses.

KPK Seizes Mercedes-Benz Belonging to Bengkulu Regional Councillor Vinna Ledy

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized a black Mercedes-Benz CLA 200 belonging to Bengkulu City Councillor Vinna Ledy Anggraheni. The vehicle is suspected to be a gift from businessman Eno Bowo Susilo as part of an ongoing investigation into bribery and illegal project kickbacks.

Village cooperatives to soft launch operations in October: Minister

The Indonesian government is preparing to soft launch the operations of Red and White Village Cooperatives this October, pending a Presidential Regulation. These cooperatives are designed to serve as economic and social hubs, functioning as distribution centres for logistics and subsidised goods across thousands of villages.

Prabowo Aims to Convert Coal into Petrol, Bahlil Explains the Reasoning

Indonesia's Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Bahlil Lahadalia, has revealed President Prabowo Subianto's plan to utilise coal for petrol production. The initiative aims to bolster national energy security and reduce reliance on fuel imports amidst global geopolitical uncertainty.

KPK Seizes Mercedes-Benz Belonging to Bengkulu Legislator Vinna Ledy, Allegedly Provided by Businessman

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized a Mercedes-Benz belonging to Bengkulu City Council member Vinna Ledy Anggraheni, suspected to be a gift from a private businessman. This seizure is part of an ongoing investigation into alleged bribery involving luxury assets linked to regional projects.

IDX Closes in Red, Down 0.88% as Energy Sector Weighs Heavily

The Indonesia Composite Index (IHSG) declined by 0.88% to 6,384.73 on Monday, driven primarily by weakness in the energy and utilities sectors. Investors remain cautious due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and upcoming central bank interest rate decisions globally.

KM Virgo 8 Capsizes in Java Sea, Alleged Modifications Under Scrutiny

The capsizing of KM Virgo Transport 8 in the Masalembo waters has raised concerns regarding unauthorised vessel modifications. Experts emphasise that any structural changes, such as the addition of a ramp door, must undergo rigorous technical verification and official approval to ensure maritime safety.

MIND ID Ranks in Top 6 of Fortune Indonesia 100, Contributing Rp32.82 Trillion to the State

The Indonesian mining industry holding company, MIND ID, has secured a position among the top six companies in the Fortune Indonesia 1s00 rankings. The company reported a significant direct contribution of Rp32.82 trillion to the state in 2025, driven by dividends, taxes, and other obligations.

Prabowo Issues Letter for Oil and Gas Bill Discussions; Progress Update Provided

President Prabowo Subianto has signed a Presidential Letter to initiate discussions on the new Oil and Gas Bill (RUU Migas). The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources will lead a cross-ministerial team to prepare the List of Identified Problems (DIM) and explore the establishment of a Special Business Entity (BUK) to boost oil lifting.

US Proposes AI Safety Mechanism in Talks with China

United States and Chinese officials have held discussions in New York to establish a notification mechanism regarding potential national security threats posed by artificial intelligence. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent highlighted the importance of increasing transparency between the world's two leading AI powers to manage cross-border AI incidents.

Russia's Ruling United Russia Party Projected to Win Big in Elections

Preliminary results from the Russian central election commission indicate that the ruling United Russia party is set to secure a majority in the State Duma. The party's share of the vote has increased significantly compared to the 2021 elections, while several opposition parties struggle to meet parliamentary thresholds.

Asked About Resigning from Golkar Central Board, Nusron: Long Discussions Held, Ask Mr Bahlil for More

Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning, Nusron Wahid, has confirmed that he has been in long-term discussions with Golkar Party Chairman Bahlil Lahadalia regarding his position within the party. This follows reports that Nusron has stepped down from the Golkar Central Executive Board (DPP).

SR025 Government Bonds Surged by Investors, Highest in History!

The Indonesian government has announced record-breaking sales for the SR025 retail Sharia-compliant bonds, raising a total of Rp 29.77 trillion. The issuance attracted over 93,000 investors, marking the highest volume of retail SBSN sales in the last decade.

Democratic Party Proposes 'National Constituency' for DPR Elections; PDIP Warns Against Sacrificing the System

The Democratic Party has proposed a 'National Constituency' concept to prevent millions of votes from being wasted during parliamentary elections. However, the PDI-P leadership has cautioned against this move, arguing that such a mechanism could undermine the existing electoral system.

PDIP Admits Proposal for Two-Party Presidential Nomination Threshold is Sensible

The PDI Perjuangan (PDIP) party has expressed support for a proposal requiring at least two political parties to nominate a presidential candidate, provided there is also an upper limit on the number of supporting parties. The discussion follows the Constitutional Court's decision to remove the previous presidential threshold based on parliamentary seat percentages.

Govt moves to secure premium rice supply amid shortage

The Indonesian government and the State Logistics Agency (Bulog) are intensifying efforts to stabilise the premium rice supply across both traditional and modern retail networks. This initiative includes the optimisation of stock distribution and increased oversight to prevent the circulation of substandard or fraudulent fortified rice products.

Hundreds of Drones Strike Moscow as Russia Holds Elections

A massive wave of drone attacks targeted Moscow during the final day of Russia's parliamentary elections, causing significant damage to an oil refinery and residential buildings. The unprecedented scale of the attack, involving hundreds of drones, has been described by Russian officials as a deliberate attempt to disrupt the electoral process.

Italy to Ban Burqa in Schools and Limit Number of Foreign Students

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has announced plans to prohibit the use of burqas and niqabs in schools and introduce legal caps on the number of foreign students per classroom. The move is part of a broader strategy to address integration challenges ahead of next year's elections.

Kuansing Police Intensify Socialisation of Ban on Illegal Gold Mining

The Kuantan Singingi (Kuansing) Police are ramping up efforts to educate the public on the prohibition of illegal gold mining (PETI). The initiative aims to prevent environmental damage and ensure compliance with mining regulations through community engagement and legal awareness.

Qatar Launches Doha Investment, Targeting AI and Healthcare Sectors

Qatar has officially launched Doha Investment, a new platform owned by the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) designed to manage domestic portfolios and foster national companies. The initiative aims to drive economic diversification by targeting strategic sectors such as artificial intelligence, manufacturing, and healthcare to reduce reliance on hydrocarbons.

Qure.ai's Aira Clinical Decision Support System Becomes One of the First in the World to Achieve Class IIb CE Certification

Qure.ai has announced that its AI-based clinical decision support system, Aira, has successfully obtained Class IIb CE certification under the EU Medical Device Regulation. The platform is designed to automate workflows and clinical decision-making for primary healthcare providers, particularly in resource-limited settings.

Indian National Named Primary Suspect in Gold Shop Fraud Causing Billions in Losses

An Indian national has been identified as the primary suspect in a massive fraud and embezzlement case involving gold trading companies in Bali. The alleged scheme has resulted in total losses exceeding Rp 15.8 billion, affecting numerous victims and company commissioners.

The Fate of CPO Prices After Hitting MYR 5,000 Record, as El Niño-2 Threatens

Crude Palm Oil (CPO) prices have shown a strong upward trend in 2026, recently hitting a record high of MYR 5,018. While supply risks from El Niño threaten production and logistics, analysts predict prices will remain above RM 4,000 per tonne due to sustained global demand.

Police trace Rp3.9 billion in Zahra Berkah investment funds

Ternate Police are investigating the flow of approximately Rp3.9 billion linked to an alleged illegal investment scheme known as Zahra Berkah. The owner, Sahriyani A. Hi. Madi, has been named a suspect after operating an unauthorised investment activity without OJK permission.

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Wiyagus Urges Collaboration to Address TB in Pangandaran

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Akhmad Wiyagus has called for cross-sector collaboration to accelerate tuberculosis (TB) management in Pangandaran Regency, West Java. He emphasised that health issues directly impact community productivity and national economic growth, necessitating integrated intervention from provincial to village levels.

70 Per Cent of Hajj Funds Allocated to State Sukuk, Explains BPKH

The Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) has allocated approximately 70 per cent of its Rp 184 trillion portfolio into State Sharia Securities (SBSN). This conservative investment strategy prioritises capital security and liquidity to ensure the safety of pilgrims' funds.

Bali Governor Tasks Tourism Office to Investigate Reports of Hotels Being Sold

Bali Governor Wayan Koster has ordered the provincial Tourism Office to investigate rumours regarding the sale of several hotels across the island. While reports suggest some assets are being liquidated due to bankruptcy, the Governor maintains that the local tourism industry remains stable and growing.

200 Participants Attend Agricultural Product Processing Training in East Jakarta

The East Jakarta Food Security, Marine, and Agriculture Office has organised a training programme for 200 participants to promote the diversification of agricultural products. The initiative aims to increase the added value of crops such as potatoes, corn, and broccoli to create new business opportunities for local residents.

What Is Behind Indonesia's Premium Rice Sales Limits?

Modern retailers in Indonesia are restricting premium rice sales due to severe supply shortages caused by rising raw paddy prices and government-mandated price ceilings. The surge in farm-gate prices has made it financially unviable for suppliers to adhere to the Highest Retail Price (HET), leading to market disruptions and a shift towards higher-priced specialty rice.

Abnon Jakarta Urged to Preserve Betawi Values and Identity

Senator Dailami Firdaus has called on the Jakarta Provincial Government to ensure the Abang None Jakarta competition reflects the true essence of Betawi culture. He emphasised that the event must go beyond mere symbols and clothing to incorporate the core pillars of religion, etiquette, and tradition.

Government Agrees to Proceed with Bills for 15 Regencies/Cities to DPR Plenary Session

The Minister of Home Affairs, Tito Karnavian, has announced the government's support for advancing 15 Bills concerning regencies and cities in Kalimantan to the second stage of parliamentary discussion. The legislative process aims to strengthen the legal foundation of regional governance and provide legal certainty for the affected areas.

Citizens Storm Decile Complaint Post, Claiming Data Does Not Reflect Reality

Residents in Jakarta have gathered at a complaint centre to protest inaccuracies in the government's decile-based socio-economic data. Many claim that discrepancies in their decile classification have resulted in the loss of essential social assistance, such as the Program Indonesia Pintar (PIP) and Kartu Jakarta Pintar (KJP).

Economist: Expanding Transport Integration Must Boost Regional Connectivity

The Executive Director of Indef, Esther Sri Astuti, emphasises that expanding public transport integration is vital for strengthening connectivity in remote areas to drive new economic growth. She suggests that local governments can utilise various financing schemes, such as Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) and regional bonds, to fund essential infrastructure projects.

KND Urges Affirmative Action for Persons with Disabilities as Teachers and Lecturers in National Education System Bill

The National Disability Commission (KND) has called for the National Education System Bill (RUU Sisdiknas) to include affirmative measures for persons with disabilities. The commission argues that the current draft focuses solely on students as recipients of services rather than recognising persons with disabilities as educators and academics.

Five strategies of the Coordinating Ministry for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Correctional Services to achieve digital transformation

The Coordinating Ministry for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Correctional Services has unveiled five key strategies to drive digital transformation within its jurisdiction. These initiatives aim to enhance public service efficiency through system integration, adaptive regulation, and improved digital literacy.

Indramayu Deputy Regent Files Pre-trial Motion Following Suspect Designation in DPRD Housing Case

The Deputy Regent of Indramayu, Syaefudin, has filed a pre-trial motion at the Bandung District Court to challenge his designation as a suspect in a corruption case. The investigation involves alleged irregularities regarding housing and transport allowances for the Indramayu Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) between 2022 and 2025.