Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 21 September 2026

Showing 701-750 of 1,214 articles

I Nyoman Nuarta highlights the importance of artists maintaining networks

Renowned sculptor I Nyoman Nuarta has emphasised the necessity for artists to build networks spanning government, the private sector, and academia. Speaking at the ArtSubs 2026 forum in Surabaya, he noted that such connections are vital for the successful execution of large-scale artistic projects.

Mataram MSMEs Allocated Only One Slot for MotoGP 2026, Down from Over 10 Last Year

Small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) from Mataram face significant reductions in their participation opportunities at the upcoming MotoGP Mandalika 2026. While previous years saw over ten local businesses involved, only one culinary MSME has been allocated a slot for the 2026 event.

Palm oil farmers state investment for mini CPO mills reaches Rp40 billion

The Chairman of the Indonesian Oil Palm Farmers Union (SPKS) has highlighted that establishing mini crude palm oil (CPO) mills requires an investment of between Rp30 billion and Rp40 billion. While farmers are eager to engage in downstream processing, significant financing hurdles remain for smallholders and cooperatives.

Barito Pacific Confirms Continued Balance Sheet Consolidation in Indonesia Amid Aggressive Regional Expansion

Barito Pacific Group has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining Indonesia as its primary hub for growth and investment despite ongoing regional expansion. The conglomerate aims to leverage international acquisitions to strengthen downstream industrial growth and energy security within the domestic market.

Following Haji Isam's Acquisition of Low Tuck Kwong's Shares, Bayan's RKAB Revision Issued

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has approved the revised Work Plan and Budget (RKAB) for three subsidiaries of PT Bayan Resources Tbk, increasing coal production quotas by approximately 15 to 20 million tonnes. This approval follows the recent conditional share purchase agreement involving Andi Syamsuddin Arsyad, known as Haji Isam, and the founder Low Tuck Kwong.

Two Muslim Nations on the Brink of War as Missile Strikes Leave Casualties

Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have escalated following Pakistani airstrikes in north-eastern Afghanistan that killed at least three people. The incident risks reigniting a long-standing conflict driven by mutual accusations regarding militant activity and cross-border attacks.

Bandung Regency Government Involves MSMEs in FIFA ASEAN Cup at SJH

The Bandung Regency Government plans to involve micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) at the Si Jalak Harupat Stadium during the 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup. This initiative aims to maximise the economic multiplier effect for the local community during the international tournament.

Strengthening ASEAN Enforcement Against Scam Networks

ASEAN is working to enhance regional cooperation to combat cross-border online scam networks that exploit fragmented jurisdictions. The initiative focuses on integrating financial investigations, digital evidence, and international law enforcement to prevent criminals from simply relocating operations.

Latest Survey: Girls Outperform Boys in Reading Proficiency

The 2025 PISA results reveal a widening gender gap in reading abilities, with girls outperforming boys in 89 out of 90 participating education systems. The study highlights significant disparities in basic literacy levels and suggests that declining engagement among boys may be a contributing factor.

Machete Incident at GKPI Church in Tangerang Resolved Peacefully Following Mediation

A violent confrontation involving a man armed with a machete at the GKPI Church in Rajeg, Tangerang, has been resolved through mediation. Local authorities, including the Regent of Tangerang and the Police Chief, facilitated a settlement where both parties agreed to a peaceful resolution and the provision of temporary worship facilities.

OJK: Himbara Credit Distributed Across Various Segments, Not Just SOEs

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has reported that credit distribution by state-owned banks (Himbara) is diversifying across various debtor segments, including the private sector. While credit to SOEs saw significant growth, the largest nominal increase in lending was recorded within the non-financial private sector.

E50 and B50 Programmes Targeted to Save Rp 500 Trillion in Foreign Exchange Annually

The Minister of Agriculture, Andi Amran Sulaiman, has stated that the development of E50 and B50 biofuels could save Indonesia up to US$30 billion, or approximately Rp 500 trillion, in foreign exchange per year. The initiative aims to reduce fuel imports by utilising domestic resources such as sugarcane, cassava, and maize for ethanol production.

BKN Still Calculating Budget; Fate of 9,392 Part-Time PPPK in NTB Remains Uncertain

The National Civil Service Agency (BKN) is currently calculating the necessary budget and formation requirements for transitioning part-time Government Employees with Work Agreements (PPPK) to full-time status. In West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) alone, the uncertainty affects 9,392 part-time workers, primarily in administrative roles.

Melani Setiawan Archives Four Decades of Indonesian Fine Arts

Melani Setiawan, founder of One Piece Club Indonesia, has released a monumental 1,400-page book titled 'Indonesian Art World (197ly–2022)'. The publication documents the evolution of Indonesia's art ecosystem through thousands of personal photographs and correspondence spanning over forty years.

China and Indonesia Commit to Strengthening Exchange and Cooperation

China's highest legislator, Zhao Leji, met with Indonesia's Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), Ahmad Muzani, in Beijing. The meeting focused on deepening bilateral ties and enhancing strategic cooperation between the two nations' legislative bodies.

Puberty Does Not Guarantee Readiness: Reconstructing the Understanding of Marriage Readiness

An analysis of Ministry of Religious Affairs data reveals a significant number of women marrying before the age of 19 in Indonesia. The article argues for a shift in focus from mere biological maturity to a comprehensive standard of intellectual and social readiness to prevent underage marriage.

Priok KRL Still Assisting Bogor Route Following Return to Service of INKA Train

KAI Commuter has increased the number of daily trips on the Bogor-Jakarta Kota line to 392 after one INKA-manufactured train set returned to service. However, trains from the Tanjung Priok route are still being diverted to support the Bogor line, and adjustments to the Soekarno-Hatta Airport Rail Link continue.

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara Inaugurates 14 Senior Officials at Ministry of Finance

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara has officially inaugurated 14 high-ranking officials within the Ministry of Finance. The ceremony, held in Jakarta, included appointments for senior leadership positions and officials within the Secretariat of the Financial System Stability Committee.

Construction of South Papua MRP Building to Resume Following Final Legal Ruling

The Ministry of Public Works has confirmed that the construction of the Papua Selatan Majelis Rakyat Papua (MRP) building in Merauke will proceed once legal proceedings reach a final, binding decision. The project was previously halted following the contract termination of the contractor due to failure to meet performance standards.

US Arrests 18 Suspects Linked to Assassination of Haitian President

The United States has extradited 18 suspects involved in the 2021 assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moise to Florida for trial. The group includes a former Haitian anti-corruption official and several Colombian mercenaries, as US federal prosecutors continue their pursuit of those involved in the conspiracy.

Distributor of Hundreds of Drug-Laced Vapes Arrested in North Jakarta, Earned Millions in Wages

West Jakarta Metro Police have dismantled a drug distribution ring involving vape cartridges laced with etomidate in Kelapa Gading. The suspect, identified as RMM, was caught with 458 cartridges and admitted to receiving millions of rupiah in payments for previous deliveries.

National Nutrition Agency DIY Dismisses Bantul Staff Member for Mocking Free Nutritious Meal Poisoning Victims

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) in Yogyakarta has dismissed an employee from the Bantul Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit following social media content mocking victims of food poisoning from the Free Nutritious Meal programme. The agency emphasised that professionalism, empathy, and ethics are mandatory for all staff involved in the national programme.

East Nusa Tenggara DPRD Approves 2026 Budget Revision, Revenue Drops by Rp 560 Billion

The East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) has officially approved the 2026 Revised Regional Budget (APBD). The revised budget reflects a significant decrease in regional revenue, which has fallen by approximately Rp 560 billion compared to the initial projections.

Trade Minister: E-commerce Regulations Must Prioritise Local Products and Transparency

The Indonesian Minister of Trade, Budi Santoso, has emphasised that new e-commerce regulations must prioritise local products and ensure transparency between digital platforms, sellers, and consumers. This follows the update of electronic commerce provisions through Minister of Trade Regulation Number 19 of 2026.

Prabowo's directive signals stronger wildfire law enforcement: Expert

President Prabowo has instructed the National Police to launch an all-out investigation into corporations suspected of causing wildfires in Sumatra and Kalimantan. The directive emphasises that law enforcement should move beyond administrative sanctions to include criminal prosecution and the revocation of business permits where evidence of violations is found.

Muhammadiyah Strengthens Economic Independence, Develops Digital-Based Halal Gold Investment

The Muhammadiyah organisation has launched the Mentari Bayt Coin (MBC) and activated the MASKITA application to provide Sharia-compliant gold-based investment services. This initiative aims to bolster economic independence and community welfare through digital-based gold transactions, including direct purchases, instalments, and savings.

Navigating the New Chapter of Digital Bank Evolution in Indonesia

The Indonesian banking sector is undergoing a significant transformation as digital payment volumes surged by over 36% in the first half of 2026. This evolution is driven by the rapid adoption of mobile banking and QRIS, prompting banks to integrate AI and Open Finance into their strategic operations.

Banks Increasingly Aggressive with Special Rates, OJK Chief Warns of Risks

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has issued a warning to banks regarding the aggressive use of special interest rates to attract large depositors. While competition for funds is expected, the regulator emphasises that such practices must be measured to prevent rising costs of funds from impacting bank profitability and lending capacity.

Minister Arifah invites Perkhin to strengthen women's empowerment through RBI

The Minister for Women's Empowerment and Child Protection has called upon the Indonesian Confucian Women (Perkhin) to collaborate through the Ruang Bersama Indonesia (RBI) movement. The initiative aims to address grassroots issues regarding women and children using local wisdom and food security programmes.

Gontor's Centenary Inspires Kiai Abdul Dalil in Developing Darul Aman Islamic Boarding School

The centenary celebration of Pondok Modern Darussalam Gontor has served as a source of inspiration for Kiai Haji Abdul Dalil Thahir in managing Darul Aman Islamic Boarding School. The event highlighted the importance of strong vision and character building in educational institutions to prepare students for future challenges.

Nutrition Service Unit in Bantul Apologises After Staff Content Mocked Free Nutritious Meal Victims

The Nutrition Fulfillment Service Unit (SPPG) in Bantul has issued a formal apology following a social media post by a staff member that appeared to mock victims of alleged food poisoning from the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The unit has issued a severe reprimand to the employee and promised a thorough evaluation of staff social media usage.

Nusron held discussions with Bahlil prior to resigning from Golkar leadership

Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning, Nusron Wahid, has confirmed he held discussions with Golkar Chairman Bahlil Lahadalia before stepping down from his position within the party's leadership. While the exact reasons for his resignation remain undisclosed, he will continue to serve as a regular member of the Golkar party.

Bahlil Ready to Follow Prabowo's Directive to Convert Coal into Petrol

Indonesia's Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Bahlil Lahadalia, has expressed readiness to implement President Prabowo Subianto's directive to utilise coal for producing gas and oil. This initiative aims to bolster national energy security by leveraging domestic resources amidst global geopolitical uncertainty.

Observer: Pertamina's Unconventional Gas Development to be a 'Game Changer' for Indonesian Oil and Gas

The development of unconventional oil and gas (MNK) by PT Pertamina Hulu Rokan in the Rokan Block is expected to significantly boost Indonesia's oil production. Experts suggest that successful implementation could mirror the US experience, transforming Indonesia's energy landscape and strengthening national energy security.

Padhang Bulan Fest 2026 Features Renowned Preachers, Serving as a Space for Learning and Da'wah Celebration in Yogyakarta

The Padhang Bulan Fest 2026 is being held at the Jogja Expo Centre, bringing together various religious scholars and communities to promote social unity and economic activity. The event aims to integrate religious teachings with the empowerment of MSMEs, expecting up to 30,000 visitors.

Dramatic Moment as SAR Team Dives into Sea to Recover Victims of Virgo 8 Ship

The National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) has successfully evacuated two male victims from the sunken KM Virgo Transport 8 in the Java Sea. The rescue operation faced significant challenges due to strong sea currents, but the victims have been transported to Banjarmasin for identification.

Deputy Minister of Social Affairs Opens School Orientation for Out-of-School Children at Sentra Handayani

Deputy Minister of Social Affairs, Agus Jabo Priyono, has officially launched the school orientation programme for the Learning Activity Centre (SKB) at Sentra Handayani. The initiative aims to provide flexible educational access for children who have dropped out of school or never attended, specifically targeting those hindered by economic hardship.

Central Kalimantan Governor Meets Residents and Monitors Forest Fire Management Across Three Regencies

Central Kalimantan Governor Agustiar Sabran has visited several regencies hit by forest and land fires to monitor emergency responses and distribute aid. The Governor emphasised the need for collaborative efforts between the government, security forces, and the private sector to mitigate the impact of the ongoing fires.

Hong Kong and ASEAN Sign Protocol to Amend Investment Agreement

Hong Kong and ASEAN have signed a new protocol in Manila to amend their existing investment agreement. The move aims to provide Hong Kong companies with more favourable treatment across the ten ASEAN member states, fostering greater legal certainty and investment flows.

Taxi Driver Dragged by Electric Car on Tomang Toll Road Following Dispute

A taxi driver was dragged for 50 metres after clinging to a BYD electric vehicle following a minor collision on the Tomang Toll Road in West Jakarta. The incident, triggered by a dispute over vehicle damage, has since been resolved through mediation between the parties involved.

Bahlil prepared to implement President's directive to convert coal into petrol

Indonesia's Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Bahlil Lahadalia, has expressed readiness to follow President Prabowo Subianto's directive to utilise coal for petrol production. This initiative aims to bolster national energy security and reduce dependence on foreign energy sources through advanced coal-to-liquid technology.

Forestry Minister affirms forest fire mitigations readiness

Indonesia's Forestry Minister, Antoni, has reaffirmed the government's readiness to mitigate forest and land fires through advanced monitoring systems and inter-agency cooperation. The initiative includes the transition of Way Kambas National Park into a Public Service Agency to enhance governance and financing for biodiversity protection.

Sultan HB X Defers Alleged Illegal Levies at Alun-alun Kidul to Police

The Sultan of Yogyakarta has called for the police and the Yogyakarta City Government to investigate allegations of illegal parking levies targeting food truck operators at Alun-alun Kidul. The issue gained prominence after a food truck owner reported being extorted for millions of rupiah, despite possessing valid permits from the Keraton.

NATO Intel: Russia Prepared to Attack Europe, Could Occur This Year

French intelligence services are considering autumn 2027 as a potential timeframe for a large-scale Russian attack on Europe, significantly earlier than previous estimates. The threat involves potential strikes on strategic infrastructure, including power grids, telecommunications, and water supplies.

Digital Economy Expanding, Creative Industry Begins to Grow in Purwodadi

The growth of the digital economy is creating new opportunities for the creative industry in Purwodadi, Central Java. Local enterprises such as PT Cekink Ervada Digital are leveraging digital platforms to drive regional economic development and utilise local talent.

Extortion in Alkid, Mayor of Yogyakarta: We Have Tried to Regulate It But It Keeps Reappearing

The Mayor of Yogyakarta, Hasto Wardoyo, has expressed concern regarding allegations of illegal levies targeting MSMEs in the Alun-Alun Selatan area. The local government is currently investigating the perpetrators to determine if these incidents are linked to previous extortion attempts in the same district.

BNN and TNI strengthen synergy in efforts to prevent narcotics abuse

The National Narcotics Board (BNN) of Indonesia is intensifying its collaboration with the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) to combat drug trafficking and abuse. This strategic partnership involves the Army, Navy, and Air Force to enhance national resilience and support the 'Clean Indonesia' initiative.

The New Spirit of Minister of Finance Regulation Number 41 of 2026

The newly enacted Minister of Finance Regulation Number 41 of 2026 introduces significant changes to the management of the State Budget (APBN) by prohibiting the simultaneous holding of certain positions. The regulation aims to strengthen the 'check and balance' mechanism by ensuring that the Budget User Proxy (KPA) cannot also serve as the Commitment Making Officer (PPK) or the Payment Order Signatory Officer (PPSPM).

Reconstruction of Chicken Thief Mob Attack in Tabanan Completed, No New Facts Found

Tabanan Police have concluded the reconstruction of a mob attack that resulted in the death of a suspected chicken thief in Baturiti. No new evidence was uncovered during the 18-scene simulation, and authorities are now preparing to transfer the case files of five suspects to the Tabanan District Attorney's Office.

LPS Head Reveals 100 Rural Banks Ready for IT System Pilot Project in 2027

The Chairman of the Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) has announced that 100 Rural Banks (BPR) are set to participate in a pilot project for information technology implementation in 2027. The initiative aims to modernise banking services and strengthen cybersecurity and risk management within the rural banking sector.