Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 21 September 2026

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Breaking! Rupiah Weakens 0.56%, US Dollar Hits Rp17,800

The Indonesian Rupiah experienced a sharp depreciation against the US Dollar during early trading on Monday, reaching the Rp17,830/US$ level. This decline is largely attributed to external pressures, including rising global bond yields and escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

DPR Legislative Body Approves Agrarian Reform Bill for Plenary Session

The Indonesian House of Representatives' Legislative Body (Baleg) has approved the Agrarian Reform Regulation Bill to proceed to a plenary session for final ratification. The bill aims to resolve land conflicts and establish a dedicated agency under the President to manage agrarian resources and ensure legal certainty for the people.

KPK searches Summarecon Bogor office regarding ATR/BPN corruption case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has conducted a search at the Summarecon Bogor office as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption within the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN). The investigation follows the naming of eight suspects, including high-ranking officials and executives from PT Summarecon Agung Tbk.

Basarnas extends search operations for KM Virgo Transport 8

The National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) has decided to extend the search operations for victims of the KM Virgo Transport 8 accident for an additional seven days. The extension aims to allow sufficient time for technical assessments and coordinated field efforts involving various stakeholders.

Hashim Officially to Manage Natuna D-Alpha Oil and Gas Block, Here is Its Potential

PT Nations Petroleum, an oil and gas company under the Arsari Group owned by Hashim Djojohadikusumo, has won the tender for the Natuna D-Alpha working area. The block holds significant gas potential estimated at over 200 trillion cubic feet, despite historical challenges regarding high CO2 content.

Central Government Spending Reaches $100 Billion, Up 29%

Indonesia's central government expenditure rose by 29% to Rp 1.79 quadrillion during the first eight months of 2026. This surge was primarily driven by increased energy subsidies and compensation payments to state-owned enterprises such as PLN and Pertamina to ensure cash-flow stability.

Muhammadiyah's Unified Global Hijri Calendar Sets 1 Ramadan 1448 H for 8 February 2027

The Muhammadiyah Unified Global Hijri Calendar (KHGT) has announced that Ramadan 1448 H is expected to begin on 8 February 2027, with Eid al-Fitr falling on 9 March 2027. While this provides an early reference for the community, the official start date remains subject to the Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs' official determination via the Sidang Isbat process.

Digital Transactions Surge, But MSMEs Struggle for Profit! Here is the Cause

The rapid growth of digital commerce in Indonesia is being hindered by a lack of digital trust, which limits MSMEs' access to finance and markets. Privy CEO Marshall Pribadi emphasises that verified digital identities are essential to bridge the massive trade finance gap and integrate Indonesian businesses into the global economy.

Rano Urges Officials to Emulate IKADA Spirit to Address Jakarta's Challenges

Jakarta Deputy Governor Rano Karno has called upon provincial officials to adopt the historical spirit of the IKADA Great Meeting to tackle modern urban issues. He emphasised that the current struggle lies in overcoming poverty, inequality, and climate change to ensure Jakarta remains a just and livable city.

Ministry of Health deploys 1,898 healthcare workers to treat 151,000 respiratory infection cases caused by forest fires

The Indonesian Ministry of Health has deployed nearly 1,900 healthcare workers and distributed medical logistics to combat a surge in acute respiratory infections caused by forest and land fires. The initiative aims to support medical facilities across seven provinces, particularly in areas facing the most severe impacts such as South Kalimantan, Central Kalimantan, and Riau.

Jakarta, New York shared public transportation strategy

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo met with New York Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani to discuss strategies for managing traffic congestion and improving public transport connectivity. The discussions also focused on Jakarta's efforts to enhance flood resilience through infrastructure projects such as the construction of a giant sea wall.

How to Identify WhatsApp Calls from Unknown Numbers: Beware of Scams!

WhatsApp has introduced three new security features designed to enhance user privacy and combat online fraud. These updates include the implementation of Passkeys, enhanced two-step verification, and new tools to identify information regarding unknown callers.

Segara Anak Lake Ornaments Removed Following Protests from Environmental Activists

The Mount Rinjani National Park Authority has removed decorative ornaments from the Segara Anak Lake area in Lombok. The decision follows significant backlash from environmental groups who argued that the structures defaced the natural landscape.

BNPB: Ground-based watering successfully extinguishes forest fires in Mamuju & Minahasa

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has confirmed that joint task forces have successfully controlled peatland fires in West Sulawesi and North Sulawesi. Authorities are now focusing on intensive suppression efforts in remaining areas and urging the public to prevent further outbreaks during the dry season.

Pramono and Mamdani Discuss Transportation to Jakarta Bonds in New York

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung and New York City Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani met in New York to discuss urban challenges, including public transport, flood mitigation, and air pollution. The bilateral meeting also explored the potential issuance of 'Jakarta Bonds' to fund urban infrastructure development.

Indonesia and Macau Explore Cooperation in Halal Industry and Investment

Indonesia and Macau are exploring bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including trade, investment, and Muslim-friendly tourism. A recent delegation visit to Jakarta facilitated numerous business matching sessions and agreements spanning high-tech, healthcare, and the halal industry.

Police coordinate cross-sector investigation into alleged extortion and illegal alcohol in Kalijodo

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police are collaborating with various government agencies to investigate reports of illegal levies and alcohol distribution at the Kalijodo Public Space (RPTRA) in West Jakarta. Authorities aim to ensure the area remains a safe, family-friendly public space and to prevent the resurgence of criminal activities.

Samsung dominates global smartphone market in first half of 2026

Samsung has secured the largest global smartphone market share, accounting for 22 per cent of shipments in the first half of 2026. Despite rising prices and a shrinking global market, the South Korean manufacturer achieved a 9 per cent year-on-year growth in shipments.

Video: Houthi Drones Bombard Saudi Arabia - Indonesia Acquires Aircraft Carrier

The Houthi group in Yemen has claimed responsibility for missile and drone attacks on sensitive sites in Riyadh, causing significant disruption at King Khalid International Airport. Concurrently, Indonesia has officially welcomed its first aircraft carrier, the KRI Sriwijaya, making it the second nation in ASEAN to possess such a vessel.

Jatma Aswaja emphasises strengthening village and pesantren-based economy

The PB Jatma Aswaja organisation has called for the development of an economic ecosystem centred on villages and Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) to support President Prabowo Subianto's national development goals. The initiative aims to integrate religious educational institutions with industry and government to drive grassroots economic growth and poverty reduction.

Zelensky Escalates: 1,600 Drones Shake Moscow, Russia

A massive wave of approximately 1,600 drones targeted Moscow and surrounding regions during Russia's parliamentary elections. The large-scale aerial assault resulted in several civilian casualties and significant damage to residential buildings and industrial facilities.

Police to Announce Results of Sutrimo Exhumation This Week

The Metro Jaya Regional Police are expected to release the findings from the exhumation of Sutrimo, a man previously linked to the residence of former high-ranking prosecutor Febrie Adriansyah. Investigators are currently coordinating with forensic specialists to finalise the medical reports and are considering summoning an Attorney General's Office official for questioning.

Limited access and water sources hinder forest and land fire suppression in Batang Hari

The Forest and Land Fire Task Force in Batang Hari, Jambi, is struggling to combat wildfires due to difficult terrain and a lack of accessible water sources. Authorities are now seeking additional operational vehicles to improve personnel mobilisation and response times across the affected districts.

Fact Check: Was This Video Recorded Aboard the Virgo 8 Before It Sank?

A fact-check investigation reveals that viral footage claiming to show the sinking of the KMP Virgo Transport 8 is actually from an incident involving the KMP Marina Bay in August 2026. The KMP Virgo Transport 8 recently foundered in the Java Sea, resulting in several fatalities and an ongoing search for hundreds of passengers.

Kudus Regency Government: Four Kudus Residents Victims of KM Virgo Sinking

The Kudus Regency Government has pledged full support to the families of four residents believed to be victims of the KM Virgo Transport 8 sinking in the Java Sea. Local authorities will coordinate with search and rescue teams and investigate employment benefits and insurance claims for the victims.

EU seeks to strengthen ties with Canada

European Council President Antonio Costa has expressed the European Union's ambition to forge the closest possible relationship with Canada. The initiative includes potential cooperation in defence, security, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing.

Firefighters rescue 53 people from apartment fire in North Jakarta

A significant fire broke out at the Teluk Intan Apartment in North Jakarta, suspected to have been caused by an electrical short circuit on the 8th floor. Firefighters successfully evacuated 53 residents, including children and the elderly, with estimated property losses reaching Rp1.5 billion.

Behind President Prabowo's Criticism of Experts

An editorial analysis explores the deeper meaning behind President Prabowo Subianto's controversial remarks regarding experts. It argues that the focus should shift from the President's choice of words to the substantive debate regarding intellectual honesty and the empirical evaluation of government policies.

Moments as Basarnas Divers Evacuate Victims from KMP Virgo 8 Wreckage

Basarnas divers have successfully recovered two male victims from the wreckage of KM Virgo Transport 8 at a depth of 24 metres in the Java Sea. The search and rescue operation is ongoing as authorities continue to sweep the area for any remaining victims.

East Nusa Tenggara Police Thwart Smuggling of Indian and Sri Lankan Nationals to Australia

The East Nusa Tenggara Regional Police have intercepted the attempted smuggling of two foreign nationals from India and Sri Lanka towards Australia. An Indonesian national acting as a field guide was also detained, alongside evidence of an international human smuggling route.

Sucofindo Promotes Carbon Market Development and Food Supply Chain Resilience

At the 2026 Environmental and Social Innovation Awards (ENSIA), experts highlighted the potential of the carbon market under the Paris Agreement to drive economic value and emission reductions. Discussions also focused on strengthening food supply chain resilience through innovation, circular economy practices, and the development of blue economy initiatives.

One Week into Tenure, Finance Minister Suahasil Inaugurates New Officials

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara has appointed 14 new officials within the Ministry of Finance to refine the organisation's structure. The appointments follow a rigorous assessment process by the Board of Rank and Position Consideration (Baperjakat) to ensure continuity in the ministry's operations.

Jakarta City Government: Jakarta's Economic Growth Must Improve Quality of Life

The Mayor of Central Jakarta, Arifin, has emphasised that Jakarta's 5.52 per cent economic growth in the second quarter of 2026 must be directed towards enhancing public welfare. He stressed that economic progress should be accompanied by improvements in education, healthcare, and basic services to ensure benefits reach all citizens.

Sultan HB X Refers Alkid Parking Extortion Case to Police and Yogyakarta City Government

The Sultan of Yogyakarta has referred allegations of illegal parking levies at Alun-alun Kidul to the police and local authorities. The case emerged after a food truck owner reported being extorted for Rp 1 million per day despite having official permission from the Keraton.

AfD Wins in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, German Chancellor: This is a Disaster!

The right-wing Alternative for Germany (AfD) has secured victory in the Mecklenburg-Vorpommern state elections, leaving the CDU without parliamentary seats. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz described the election results as a 'disaster', attributing the shift to Germany's economic struggles and social divisions.

Tabanan to Implement Underground Cabling to Prevent Disruptions to Cultural Processions

The Tabanan Regency Government plans to move overhead utility cables underground in city centres and along main roads to improve urban aesthetics. This initiative aims to eliminate cable obstructions that frequently interfere with large-scale Balinese traditional ceremonies, such as Ogoh-ogoh parades and Ngaben processions.

DPR Commission II and Government Agree to Bring 15 Regency/City Bills to Plenary Session

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) Commission II and the government have reached an agreement to advance 15 bills regarding regencies and cities to a plenary session. The discussions focused on legal foundations, regional restructuring, and local characteristics, specifically resolving issues regarding district capitals.

Surprising! Businessmen Say Said Iqbal's Proposal for 9.5% Minimum Wage Increase for 2027 is Ideal

The Indonesian Association of Filament Yarn and Thread Producers (APSyFI) has expressed support for the labour union's proposal to increase the 2027 minimum wage by 7.5% to 9.5%. Industry leaders argue that boosting public purchasing power is essential for domestic industrial performance and suggest moving away from a low-wage economic model.

Indonesia-China Promotes Safe and Impactful Digital Cities

Indonesia and China have convened the Digital City and Security Technology Application Forum 2026 in Jakarta to strengthen bilateral cooperation in digital infrastructure and security. The forum aims to foster concrete partnerships in technology, investment, and human resource development to enhance urban management and economic growth.

Green transition promises new opportunities for Indonesian workforce

Indonesia's Manpower Minister Yassierli has announced an allocation of Rp1.7 trillion to train 270,000 workers for green jobs this year. The initiative aims to develop a skilled workforce capable of supporting the nation's transition towards electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies by 2029.

Trade Minister Confirms Stability of Basic Commodity Prices in Sleman Market

The Indonesian Minister of Trade, Budi Santoso, has confirmed that most essential commodity prices at Potrojayan Market in Sleman remain stable and within regulated limits. While most items like rice and shallots are trading below the maximum retail price, the Minister noted a price spike in bird's eye chillies.

China Shock 2.0: Turning Trade Diversion into Indonesia's Industrialisation Engine

An analysis of how China's shifting export strategy, moving towards high-tech goods, presents both a risk of deindustrialisation and an opportunity for Indonesia. As trade diversion occurs due to Western tariffs, Indonesia must leverage these new supply chain shifts to foster domestic technological advancement.

Constitutional Court to Hold First Hearing on Gibran's Vice-Presidential Eligibility Challenge Tonight

The Constitutional Court is set to begin hearings regarding a legal challenge to Gibran Rakabuming Raka's eligibility as Vice-President. The petitioners are contesting the fulfilment of educational requirements as stipulated in the 2017 Election Law.

Blue Economy: Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries to Rehabilitate 106,000 Hectares of Mangroves in North Coast of Java

The Indonesian government is intensifying its blue economy initiatives by rehabilitating 106,000 hectares of mangroves along the North Coast of Java. This programme aims to bolster coastal community livelihoods and enhance marine ecosystem health through sustainable management of carbon-rich habitats.

Forest Fires in Spotlight, OJK Reveals Results of Indonesian Banking Stress Test

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has confirmed that the banking sector's capital levels remain sufficient to absorb potential risks arising from widespread forest and land fires in Kalimantan. While the fires impact various economic sectors, the OJK continues to monitor banks with significant exposure to the affected regions to ensure financial stability.

Government to Settle 1997-1998 Crisis Debt Obligations by August 2026

Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara has announced that the government will complete the repayment of debt securities issued during the 1997-1998 financial crisis by August 2026. The settlement is being funded by Bank Indonesia's surplus, which has been transferred to the State Treasury.

IHSG Drops 0.27% in Morning Session, Burdened by BYAN Shares

The Indonesia Composite Index (IHSG) declined by 0.27% during the first trading session on 21 September 2026, driven by weakness in the energy and utilities sectors. Investors are currently monitoring global geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, central bank interest rate decisions, and upcoming economic data from both Indonesia and the United States.

OnePlus 16 to Feature Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro Chipset

Recent Geekbench 7 benchmarks have revealed that the upcoming OnePlus 16 is expected to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chipset. The device is also anticipated to feature 16GB of RAM and run on the Android 17 operating system.

Suahasil Nazara's Impossible Mission

The appointment of Suahasil Nazara as Finance Minister has raised hopes for fiscal stability, yet his authority remains constrained by President Prabowo Subianto's political agenda. Tensions are rising as members of the governing coalition challenge existing statutory budget deficit limits to allow for increased government borrowing.

Police Reveal Motive Behind Man Kicking Woman in Shopping Mall as He Felt Annoyed

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police have identified that a man's motive for kicking a woman in a Central Jakarta shopping mall was due to feeling disturbed by her presence. The suspect is currently in custody, and investigators are considering a psychological evaluation to understand the impulsive nature of the assault.