Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 21 September 2026

Showing 651-700 of 1,214 articles

Son of Jombang Cleric Granted Parole in Student Sexual Abuse Case

Moch Subchi Azal Tsani, known as Bechi, has been granted parole following his conviction for the sexual abuse of a student. The Directorate General of Corrections confirmed that the parole is based on official ministerial regulations and does not constitute an unconditional release.

East Jakarta utilises dry season to clean drainage systems to prevent flooding

The East Jakarta City Government is conducting large-scale cleaning of drainage channels and connecting pipes during the dry season. This proactive measure aims to remove silt and debris to ensure maximum water capacity before the rainy season arrives.

Anambas Regency Extends Work-From-Home Learning Policy Due to Forest Fire Smoke

The Anambas Islands Regency government has extended the 'Learning from Home' policy for early childhood, primary, and junior high school students due to unhealthy air quality caused by forest and land fires. The decision aims to protect students' health as smoke levels remain hazardous in several areas.

The Factors Preventing Full Adoption of Electric Vehicles in Indonesia

The adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in Indonesia faces hurdles such as the lack of local manufacturing facilities and concerns regarding battery costs. However, experts suggest that advancements in battery technology and economies of scale are expected to drive EV prices down, eventually making them more affordable than internal combustion engine vehicles.

PAN Supports Proposal for Presidential Candidates to Require Minimum Support from Two Political Parties

The National Mandate Party (PAN) has expressed support for a proposal requiring presidential and vice-presidential candidates to be endorsed by at least two political parties. This move follows a Constitutional Court ruling that invalidated the previous presidential threshold, potentially reshaping the electoral landscape for the 2029 elections.

Indonesia doing 'everything' but still struggling to curb fires

The Indonesian government has deployed 64 aircraft and 54,000 personnel to combat intensifying forest and land fires across Borneo and Sumatra. Despite these efforts, the vast territory and challenging peatland conditions continue to hinder containment, leading to significant haze affecting neighbouring countries. Meanwhile, civil society groups have initiated a class action lawsuit against the government for alleged failure to prevent these recurring disasters.

Bribery Case: Former Depok District Court Chief Faces Lower Sentence Than Deputy

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) prosecutors have demanded a 6-year and 4-month prison sentence for I Wayan Eka Mariarta, the former Chief of the Depok District Court. The sentencing request is notably lower than that of his deputy, who faces over eight years in prison for their involvement in a land dispute bribery scandal.

Following President's Directive, Bahlil States Ministry of Energy is Studying Low-Calorie Coal for Fuel Production

The Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is conducting studies on using low-calorie coal as an alternative feedstock for producing fuel. This initiative follows President Prabowo Subianto's instructions to optimise domestic energy potential amidst global geopolitical uncertainty.

East Java Governor Opens Space for Research Synergy with ICMI East Java

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has expressed a commitment to collaborating with the Association of Indonesian Muslim Scholars (ICMI) to bolster research and innovation. The initiative aims to utilise the province's vast intellectual and natural resources to develop practical solutions for societal challenges.

Pati Regent Sudewo Faces 8.5-Year Prison Sentence and Revocation of Political Rights

The suspended Regent of Pati, Sudewo, faces a prison sentence of eight and a half years and a fine of Rp300 million following corruption allegations. The prosecution is also seeking the revocation of his right to hold public office for five years following the completion of his primary sentence.

Rupiah Closes 0.54% Weaker, US Dollar Settles at Rp17,825

The Indonesian rupiah depreciated by 0.54% against the US dollar, closing at Rp17,825/US$ due to a strengthening greenback and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Bank Indonesia has signalled its readiness to intervene in both domestic and foreign exchange markets to maintain currency stability.

Market Traders in Pandeglang Complain of Waste Accumulation Driving Away Customers

Traders at Labuan Market in Pandeglang, Banten, are struggling with significant waste accumulation that has persisted for three months. The resulting stench and hygiene concerns are deterring customers, leading to a decline in sales for local vendors.

Search continues for 123 still missing in Virgo 8 accident

Search and rescue operations are ongoing following the capsizing of the KM Virgo Transport 8 in the Java Sea. Basarnas has confirmed the recovery of two additional victims, bringing the total number of found individuals to 120, while 123 people remain missing.

Ministry of Forestry: Hotspots Increasing, 1,532 Detected as of 20 September

The Indonesian Ministry of Forestry has reported an increase in forest and land fire hotspots, with 1,532 high-confidence points detected across several provinces. Authorities are prioritising fire prevention and handling efforts, particularly in Central Kalimantan and South Sumatra.

Official! Bayan Granted Additional Coal Production of 15-20 Million Tonnes

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has approved the revised Work Plan and Budget (RKAB) for three subsidiaries of PT Bayan Resources Tbk. This approval grants the company an additional coal production quota of approximately 15 to 20 million tonnes.

Ministry of Immigration and Correctional Services Strengthens Public Service Governance through Evaluation-to-Action

The Indonesian Ministry of Immigration and Correctional Services (Kemenimipas) has launched a strategic initiative to overhaul public services by converting evaluations into actionable improvements. Minister Agus Andrianto identified priority services in both immigration and correctional sectors, focusing on automation, standardised decision-making, and enhanced data traceability.

KB Bank Syariah and MBC to Develop Digital Gold Investment

KB Bank Syariah has partnered with PT Mentari Bayt Coin (MBC) to expand access to Sharia-compliant gold investments. The collaboration integrates 99.99% pure gold bars into the MASKITA application, allowing for seamless digital transactions and buybacks.

Parliamentary Threshold Above 5 Per Cent: For Whom?

Debate has resurfaced regarding the proposed increase of the parliamentary threshold in Indonesia, with parties split between 5 per cent and 7 per cent proposals. While NasDem advocates for a 7 per cent limit to streamline democracy, other major parties support 5 per cent, and the Labour Party calls for a reduction to 1 per cent.

Temporary Housing for East Manggarai Earthquake Victims Collapses Following M5.3 Aftershock

A temporary housing unit built by the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) for earthquake victims in East Manggarai collapsed following a magnitude 5.3 aftershock. The structure, which was still under construction, was part of a larger initiative to provide emergency shelter during the recovery period.

Pond in Gunung Sindur, Bogor Turns Red, Prompting Residents to Collect Water

Residents in Gunung Sindur, Bogor Regency, were alarmed when a local pond unexpectedly turned red, leading some to collect the water in containers. Local authorities and village officials have coordinated with the Environmental Agency to conduct laboratory testing on water samples to determine the cause of the colour change.

Survey: Majority of Palestinians and Israelis No Longer Believe in Two-State Solution

A recent survey by the Pew Research Centre reveals a significant decline in confidence regarding the two-state solution, with most Israelis and Palestinians doubting the possibility of peaceful coexistence. The findings highlight deep-seated security concerns and territorial disputes as primary drivers of this growing pessimism.

Indonesia calls for stronger ASEAN semiconductor ecosystem

Deputy Trade Minister Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri has urged ASEAN member states to strengthen the regional semiconductor ecosystem through the development of the ASEAN Semiconductor Roadmap. The initiative aims to enhance global supply chain competitiveness by expanding research, improving infrastructure, and harmonising investment incentives across the region.

Viral Orange Skies in Central Kalimantan: Residents Compare Scene to Naruto World

Intense orange skies in Central Kalimantan have gone viral on social media, caused by ongoing forest and land fires. The Ministry of Forestry is intensifying firefighting efforts, including water bombing and weather modification, as haze impacts visibility and aviation in the region.

15 Bills regarding regencies/cities in Kalimantan brought to DPR plenary session

The DPR's Commission II and the government have agreed to advance 15 draft bills concerning various regencies and cities in West, Central, and South Kalimantan to a plenary session for second-level decision-making. These bills aim to update the legal foundations of these regions to align with the 1945 Constitution, rather than initiating regional expansion.

Wife of Journalist Missing in Sunda Strait Still Hopes for Discovery

The wife of Antara journalist Muhammad Bagus Khoirunas has expressed her hope that search operations for her husband, who went missing in the Sunda Strait, will be resumed. Meanwhile, LKBN Antara has announced plans to honour his memory by exhibiting his photography and naming a new creative space after him.

Krueng Tingkeum Duplication Bridge in Aceh Fully Operational, Restoring East Sumatra Logistics Route

The Indonesian Ministry of Public Works has completed the construction of the Krueng Tingkeum Duplication Bridge in Bireuen, Aceh. The new bridge restores vital connectivity on the East Sumatra-Aceh corridor following damage caused by hydrometeorological disasters in late 2025.

E-Commerce Must Prioritise Local Products, Trade Minister Urges Transparency from Platforms to Consumers

The Indonesian Minister of Trade, Budi Santoso, has called for e-commerce regulations to prioritise local goods and ensure transparency between digital platforms, sellers, and consumers. This initiative follows the update of electronic commerce regulations through Minister of Trade Regulation Number 19 of 2026.

Clean Bio Korea to Showcase Proven Air-Fit Technology at Hospital Expo 2026 in Indonesia

South Korean company Clean Bio Co., Ltd plans to present its Air-Fit air purification and sterilisation system at the Indonesia Int'l Hospital Expo 2026. The technology has already undergone successful pilot testing in North Sumatra, demonstrating improved indoor air quality in public and healthcare facilities.

Ali Masykur Musa to Lead International Naqshabandi Council, Carrying Mandate for Peace and Global Sufi Networks

Ali Masykur Musa has been unanimously elected as the Chairman of the International Naqshabandi Council (INC) during a conference in Bukhara, Uzbekistan. The appointment aims to foster international communication and brotherhood within the global Sufi community.

US Dollar Hits Rp17,830, Bank Indonesia Speaks Out and Reveals the Culprits

The Indonesian Rupiah has depreciated to Rp17,830 per US Dollar, driven by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and rising oil prices. Bank Indonesia has pledged to intervene in the market through various monetary operations to maintain exchange rate stability and manage liquidity.

China Suddenly Shifts Stance, Moving to Curb Advanced Technology

The Chinese government has begun tightening oversight on Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) within the humanoid robotics sector to prevent a market bubble. Regulators are scrutinising companies following concerns that inflated valuations are being driven by government-backed projects rather than genuine commercial demand.

House of Representatives Changes BRAN Name to LPRA in Agrarian Reform Bill

The Indonesian House of Representatives' Legislative Body has agreed to rename the National Agrarian Reform Agency (BRAN) to the Agrarian Reform Implementation Agency (LPRA) within the Agrarian Reform Regulation Bill. The proposed legislation also includes provisions for a supervisory board to ensure transparency and accountability in land reform processes.

BPOM Ready to Assist Police in Investigating Alleged Drug-Laced Vape Case Involving Influencer Jule

The Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) has pledged its support to the police in investigating the alleged use of narcotics in e-cigarette liquids involving influencer Julia Prastini. The agency will provide laboratory testing for etomidate and expert testimony to assist the ongoing criminal investigation.

Nusron states all factions agree to move Agrarian Reform Bill to second stage

The Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning, Nusron Wahid, has announced that all political party factions in the DPR have reached an agreement to advance the Agrarian Reform Bill. The bill has successfully passed the first stage of discussions and is now set to proceed to the second stage for final decision-making in a plenary session.

Putin's Party Maintains Parliamentary Dominance in Russian Elections

The ruling United Russia party, led by President Vladimir Putin, has secured an absolute victory in the recent Russian parliamentary elections. The four-day voting process was marked by significant cyberattacks and a large-scale Ukrainian drone strike on Moscow.

Former KPK Leader: Asset Forfeiture Law Will Not Work Effectively If Law Enforcement Officials Are Problematic

Former Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) leader Erry Riyana has warned that the proposed Asset Forfeiture Bill will fail to achieve its objectives if law enforcement officials lack integrity. He emphasised that reforming the legal apparatus is just as crucial as the legislation itself to prevent widespread misinterpretation of the law.

Trade Minister ensures communication with modern retailers regarding premium rice stocks

The Indonesian Minister of Trade, Budi Santoso, has confirmed ongoing discussions with modern retail chains to address recent shortages in premium rice supplies. The government has instructed Perum Bulog to optimise the distribution of available stocks to both traditional markets and modern retailers.

Former KPK Official Reveals Reasons Why Corruption Enforcement Remains Suboptimal

A former high-ranking official of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has highlighted systemic flaws in Indonesia's fight against corruption. He argues that a lack of accountability and effective checks and balances allows officials to abuse their authority for personal gain.

President Xi Jinping to pay state visit to the US from Sep 23 to 25, China confirms

Chinese President Xi Jinping is scheduled to undertake a state visit to the United States from 23 to 25 September to meet with President Donald Trump. The summit is expected to address critical global issues, including trade tariffs, artificial intelligence, and geopolitical tensions regarding Taiwan and Iran.

Dedi Mulyadi Targets Insurance Coverage for 5.4 Million Informal Workers in West Java by 2027

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has announced a target to provide employment insurance to 5.4 million informal sector heads of households by 2027. The programme, funded by provincial and local governments, aims to provide medical coverage and death benefits for workers such as farmers, fishermen, and drivers.

Ministry of Home Affairs Secretary-General Calls for Evaluation of Regional Food Price Interventions

The Secretary-General of the Ministry of Home Affairs has urged regional authorities to evaluate food price interventions following persistent price hikes in certain provinces. The move aims to identify field-level obstacles and ensure government stability efforts effectively protect public purchasing power.

Employees Protest at City Hall Over Closure of West Jakarta Club

Hundreds of employees from Club de Arjuna held a demonstration at the Jakarta City Hall to protest the closure of their workplace in West Jakarta. The workers, who have been unemployed for three months, are seeking government intervention to resolve a property ownership dispute that has led to the premises being walled off.

State Secretary refers to Agriculture Minister Amran as 'Food Commander' driving self-sufficiency

State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has lauded Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman as the 'Food Commander' for his leadership in accelerating national food self-sufficiency. The State Secretariat has pledged full support through regulatory processing and state budget allocations to bolster food security and national energy independence.

Sharia Wealth Forum 2026: BRI Wealth Management Presents Diversification Strategies Through Sharia Investment

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) and Syailendra Capital hosted the Sharia Wealth Forum 2026 to discuss market dynamics and Sharia-compliant investment opportunities. The forum highlighted the importance of portfolio diversification and risk management amidst a complex global economic landscape.

Ministry of Manpower and Unsoed prepare job access for students and alumni

The Indonesian Ministry of Manpower and Universitas Jenderal Soedirman (Unsoed) are formalising a Memorandum of Understanding to expand employment opportunities for students and graduates. The collaboration aims to provide better access to labour market information, internship programmes, and competency development through the SIAPkerja ecosystem.

How Indonesia Plans to Turn Coal into Gasoline

The Indonesian government, following President Prabowo Subianto's directive, is exploring technology to convert low-calorie coal into gasoline and gas. Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia noted that several companies have proposed joint ventures to implement this initiative, which aims to enhance national energy resilience and reduce reliance on imported crude oil.

Economist Urges Strengthening of Fiscal Instrument Regulations

Trimegah Sekuritas Indonesia economist Fakhrul Fulvian has called for a clearer 'rulebook' regarding the use of fiscal instruments to define objectives, timelines, and exit mechanisms. He emphasises that government spending should aim to crowd-in private investment rather than permanently replacing it, while also highlighting the need for fiscal stability amidst energy price volatility.

Former KPK Leader: Asset Forfeiture Law Insufficient Without Good Law Enforcement

Former leader of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), Erry Riyana, has warned that the proposed Asset Forfeiture Bill will fail to achieve its objectives if law enforcement agencies remain problematic. He emphasised the need for bureaucratic reform within the judiciary, prosecution, and police to ensure the law is not misused through broad interpretations.

Boosting Natural Gas Utilisation, PGN Optimises Gas Networks in Gresik and Sidoarjo

The Indonesian government is expanding the domestic gas network (jargas) in Gresik and Sidoarjo to enhance energy security and reduce LPG import dependency. Through the 2025-2026 state budget, the initiative aims to connect hundreds of thousands of households to the national gas infrastructure.

Global Central Banks Raise Interest Rates, LPS Head Responds

The Chairman of the Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS), Anggito Abimanyu, has adopted a 'wait and see' approach regarding deposit guarantee rates following recent interest rate hikes by global central banks. This comes as the US Federal Reserve and several other central banks have begun increasing their benchmark rates, impacting global monetary trends.