Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 21 September 2026

Showing 51-100 of 1,214 articles

Agriculture Minister Amran prepares 2 million hectares for bioethanol development

Indonesia's Minister of Agriculture, Andi Amran Sulaiman, has announced plans to develop up to 2 million hectares of land to bolster the national bioethanol industry. The initiative focuses on using sugarcane, cassava, and maize as primary raw materials to strengthen national energy independence.

Adi Arnawa Responds to Proposal to Raise Badung Minimum Wage to Rp 5 Million by 2027

The Regent of Badung, I Wayan Adi Arnawa, has addressed proposals to increase the 2027 Badung Regency Minimum Wage (UMK) to Rp 5 million. While not dismissing the idea, he emphasised that any adjustment must be based on careful calculations and the tripartite mechanism.

Bangkalan Free Nutritious Meal Task Force Urges Nutrition Service Units to Secure Cook Certifications

The Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) Task Force in Bangkalan, East Java, has called on Nutrition Service Units (SPPG) to urgently obtain BNSP-certified cooks. Currently, 44 out of 131 kitchens in the region lack licensed personnel, risking potential operational suspension by the National Nutrition Agency.

Minister of Forestry and Head of BNPB to Station in Central Kalimantan to Oversee Forest Fire Management

The Minister of Forestry and the Head of the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) will establish a temporary office in Central Kalimantan to directly supervise efforts to combat forest and land fires. The move aims to oversee weather modification operations intended to induce rainfall and mitigate the impact of widespread haze.

ASDP strengthens personnel preparedness for emergency situations

PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) has implemented fire safety certification for personnel across various regional branches to enhance emergency response capabilities. The programme aims to strengthen the company's Occupational Health and Safety Management System (SMK3) by ensuring staff can effectively manage initial fire hazards and risks.

Indonesia Urges Vigilance for Citizens in Russia, Ukraine

The Indonesian Foreign Ministry has advised its citizens residing in Russia and Ukraine to exercise heightened vigilance following an escalation in military strikes between the two nations. Indonesian embassies in Kyiv and Moscow are closely monitoring the security situation to ensure the safety of over 1,400 Indonesians currently located in the conflict zones.

Revitalisation of Al-Markaz Al-Islami Mosque in Makassar Underway

The revitalisation project for the Al-Markaz Al-Islami Mosque in Makassar, valued at Rp 26.69 billion, has officially commenced with an initial progress of 0.84 per cent. Member of Parliament Hamka B. Kady has urged the contractors to prioritise high-quality materials to ensure the mosque remains a safe and comfortable icon for South Sulawesi.

Four former LPEI officials sentenced to six years in corruption case

Four former officials of the Indonesia Export Financing Institution (LPEI) have been sentenced to six years in prison for their involvement in a corruption scheme. The case, which spans from 2015 to 2023, resulted in state losses amounting to approximately Rp992.82 billion.

Indonesian Military Engages in Armed Clash with OPM in Nduga

The TNI Habema Task Force engaged in a firefight with the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB-OPM) in the Nduga Regency of Papua. The military commander stated that the operation aimed to apprehend members of the separatist group, and emphasised that all actions will be conducted within the framework of human rights and law.

Pertamina Trans Kontinental Strengthens Maritime Support for Biodiesel Distribution in Indonesia

PT Pertamina Trans Kontinental (PTK) has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the smooth maritime distribution of biodiesel across the Indonesian archipelago. The company aims to enhance energy connectivity through integrated marine logistics, supporting the national biodiesel ecosystem and upcoming mandates.

Nusron Wahid Annoyed by Questioning Regarding Corruption Case in Ministry of ATR/BPN

The Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning, Nusron Wahid, has expressed his respect for the ongoing corruption investigation by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). The investigation follows a recent sting operation involving officials within the Ministry of ATR/BPN.

Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources strengthens gold mining governance through formalisation and law enforcement

The Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is implementing a three-pronged strategy of digitalisation, formalisation, and law enforcement to improve gold mining governance. The initiative aims to legalise unlicensed mining by establishing People's Mining Areas (WPR) and issuing mining permits to integrate small-scale production into the formal supply chain.

Death Toll Rises: Total Fatalities from Virgo Transport 8 Shipwreck Reaches 15

Basarnas has confirmed that the death toll from the KM Virgo Transport 8 maritime accident has risen to 15 following the discovery of two additional bodies in the Seruyan waters. Search operations continue for the remaining 120 passengers listed on the vessel's manifest.

Two Victims of KM Virgo Transport 8 Found in Central Kalimantan Waters Wearing Life Jackets

Basarnas has confirmed the discovery of two more bodies in the Seruyan Regency waters, identified as victims of the KM Virgo Transport 8 maritime accident. The victims were found wearing life jackets bearing the ship's identity, bringing the total number of deceased confirmed by authorities to 15.

Fire Extinguished: Suspected Cause of Tank Container Blaze at Priok Port Identified

A fire involving an ISO tank container at the New Priok Container Terminal One (NPCT1) has been successfully extinguished. Preliminary investigations suggest that extreme heat and strong winds caused the blaze, which originated from a container of crude oil, to spread rapidly.

North Sumatra Governor Appreciates Abpednas' Role in Reaching Village Communities

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution has expressed his support for the National Association of Village Consultative Bodies (Abpednas), praising its efforts to improve village welfare. The Governor encouraged the association to ensure its upcoming programmes directly benefit rural populations through collaboration with the provincial government.

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Emphasises Need for Cross-Sector Collaboration to Tackle TB

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Akhmad Wiyagus has highlighted that tuberculosis (TB) prevention requires integrated efforts across various government sectors. He noted that the disease significantly impacts public productivity and family economic stability, potentially affecting the national economy.

Gorontalo Naval Base Thwarts Cyanide Smuggling from the Philippines

The Gorontalo Naval Base, in collaboration with Gorontalo Customs, successfully intercepted a large shipment of cyanide smuggled from the Philippines. The seizure, involving approximately 3,000 kilograms of the substance, represents a potential loss of over Rp249 million in unpaid taxes.

North Bolaang Mongondow Regent Caught in Sting Operation, KPK Seizes Hundreds of Millions in Cash

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has conducted a sting operation involving the Regent of North Bolaang Mongondow, Sirajudin Lasena. Authorities seized hundreds of millions of rupiah in cash suspected to be linked to infrastructure projects within the local government.

Following BGN Directives, Nutrition Service Units in Mataram Include Consumption Time Limits for Free Nutritious Meal Menu

Nutrition Service Units (SPPG) in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, have begun labelling Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) packages with maximum consumption time limits to ensure food safety. This initiative follows instructions from the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) to prevent food poisoning incidents and maintain food quality for students.

Basarnas and Indonesian Navy Deploy 34 Divers on 10th Day of KM Virgo SAR Operation

Search and rescue operations for the KM Virgo Transport 8 continue in the Java Sea, with 34 professional divers deployed to locate 120 missing passengers. The operation aims to evacuate individuals trapped within the sunken vessel amidst improving sea conditions.

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Ribka Haluk Urges NTT Transformation: Innovation is Key to Optimising Regional Potential

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Ribka Haluk has called on local governments in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) to prioritise innovation to leverage the province's natural and cultural assets. She emphasised that overcoming geographical limitations through technological and agricultural breakthroughs is essential for driving sustainable economic growth and community welfare.

OPPO A7 Pro Max Debuts Globally with Massive 10,000 mAh Battery

OPPO has expanded its mid-range smartphone lineup globally with the launch of the OPPO A7 Pro Max in Austria, Malaysia, and Thailand. The device distinguishes itself with an exceptionally large 10,000 mAh silicon-carbon battery and advanced fast-charging capabilities.

Former Deputy Minister Silmy Karim Files Pre-trial Motion Challenging KPK Coercive Measures

Former Deputy Minister of Immigration and Correctional Services, Silmy Karim, has filed a pre-trial motion against the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) regarding the legality of his suspect designation and seizures. His legal team argues that the KPK's investigative procedures and administrative documents fail to meet the legal standards required by the Criminal Procedure Code.

Minister of Higher Education Begins Calculating Costs for Free State University Initiative

The Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Brian Yuliarto, has commenced calculations to determine the standard costs per student for state universities. This move follows President Prabowo Subianto's directive to implement free education across all public schools and universities.

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Bima Arya: Regional Leadership is Key to Addressing Religious Freedom Issues

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Bima Arya Sugiarto has emphasised that strong regional leadership and multi-stakeholder collaboration are essential to resolving religious freedom conflicts. He stressed that maintaining religious harmony requires more than just formal regulations, necessitating swift and accurate responses from local leaders to prevent social unrest.

Man wielding machete apologises after outburst at GKPI church in Tangerang

A man brandishing a machete and demanding the closure of a church in Rajeg, Tangerang, has issued a formal apology following a mediation session. Local authorities and police have stepped in to ensure peace, with an agreement reached to resolve the dispute through community dialogue.

KPK Seizes Documents Related to Bribery Following Search of Summarecon Office in Bogor

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized various documents and electronic evidence following a search of the PT Summarecon Agung Tbk office in Bogor. The investigation pertains to alleged bribes paid by private parties to officials within the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN).

New OJK Regulation: Danantara, BI, and Ministry of Finance May Hold Shares in IDX

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has issued a new regulation allowing Danantara, Bank Indonesia, and the Ministry of Finance to become shareholders of the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX). The regulation aims to facilitate the demutualisation of the exchange while ensuring market integrity and professional governance.

Japanese and Balinese Cultural Wealth Merged in Denpasar

Bank Danamon hosted the Danamon Matsuri 2026 in Denpasar, Bali, to foster community collaboration and business connections. The event featured a blend of Japanese and Balinese cultural performances, including Taiko drumming and the Kecak dance, alongside activities for local MSMEs.

Optimising Regional Potential: Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Urges NTT Local Government to Strengthen Innovation

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Ribka Haluk has called on the local government of East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) to leverage regional innovation to boost economic growth. She emphasised the need to utilise the province's cultural, marine, and agricultural potential through creative solutions to overcome geographical limitations.

KPK Investigating Involvement of Two Other Directors-General at ATR/BPN Regarding HGB Bribery Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating the potential involvement of two additional Directors-General within the Ministry of ATR/BPN following raids on their offices. The investigation pertains to a bribery scandal involving Building Use Rights (HGB) and allegations of illegal trading of positions within the ministry.

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Wiyagus: TB Management is Not Solely the Responsibility of the Health Sector

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Akhmad Wiyagus has emphasised that tackling tuberculosis (TB) requires cross-sector collaboration, as the disease impacts productivity and the broader economy. He urged local government officials and security personnel to assist in community education and prevention efforts.

Aggrieved Industry Awaiting Electric Motorcycle Subsidies

The Indonesian Electric Motorcycle Industry Association (Aismoli) has expressed concern over the delayed implementation of promised electric vehicle subsidies. This policy uncertainty has led to a significant drop in sales, with units sold falling to just 18,900 up to August 2026 compared to much higher figures in previous years.

2,400 hectares of farmland in East Kalimantan suffering from drought

The East Kalimantan Provincial Government has reported that approximately 2,400 hectares of agricultural land across seven regencies and cities are experiencing drought conditions. Of this total, roughly 200 hectares have been classified as being under severe drought stress.

Ministry of Culture Encourages AMI Awards to Sustain National Music Ecosystem

The Indonesian Ministry of Culture has expressed its support for the Anugerah Musik Indonesia (AMI) Awards, highlighting its role in preserving the nation's musical ecosystem. The Ministry aims to foster new talent and ensure the continued productivity of veteran musicians through such prestigious recognitions.

Sucofindo recognises local innovations for sustainable impact

PT Sucofindo (Persero) has honoured fifteen 'Local Heroes' at the Environmental and Social Innovation Awards (ENSIA) 2026 for their contributions to social and environmental sustainability. The awards recognise innovations addressing poverty, inequality, women's empowerment, food security, and clean energy transitions.

Disaster Strikes America: A Crisis Larger Than Covid-19

US business leaders are warning of an unprecedented economic catastrophe driven by global supply chain disruptions, energy instability, and geopolitical tensions. The current crisis, involving conflicts in the Middle East and extreme weather, is being described as more complex and stressful for businesses than the Covid-19 pandemic.

Hundreds of Market Traders in Kediri Demand Improvements to Market Management

Hundreds of traders from Bandar and Pahing markets held a protest in front of the Kediri City DPRD building to voice grievances regarding market management. The demonstrators are calling for an evaluation of Perumda Pasar Joyoboyo's policies, which they claim negatively impact their livelihoods and trading activities.

IFG Life Pays Out Rp9.4 Trillion in Claims, Premiums Grow by 32.87 Per Cent

PT Asuransi Jiwa IFG (IFG Life) has reported paying out Rp9.4 trillion in claims and benefits between January and July 2026. This period also saw a significant 32.87 per cent increase in premium income compared to the previous year.

Sugiono arrives in New York, prepared to address UN General Assembly

Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono has arrived in New York to lead the Indonesian delegation at the 81st UN General Assembly. He is scheduled to deliver a national statement focusing on multilateralism, the interests of developing nations, and the Palestinian cause.

Sydney Becomes a Magnet for Indonesian Figures, Iwan Sunito Highlights Business and Investment Opportunities

Iwan Sunito, Founder and CEO of One Global, observes that Sydney is increasingly becoming a key hub for Indonesian business leaders and investors. Recent visits by various Indonesian delegations, including former Minister Sandiaga Uno, underscore the strengthening economic ties and opportunities between Indonesia and Australia.

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Assesses Regional Leadership as Key to Maintaining Religious Harmony

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Bima Arya Sugiarto has emphasised that strong regional leadership is essential for managing religious freedom and preventing conflict. He advocated for a collaborative approach involving various stakeholders to strengthen tolerance beyond mere formal regulations.

Cabinet Secretary: President Committed to Free Education from Primary School to University for Indonesia's Future

President Prabowo Subianto has pledged to expand access to equitable education by providing free public education from primary school through to state universities. The initiative includes upgrading damaged school infrastructure and improving teacher welfare to strengthen national human resource development.

Scarcity of 3kg LPG Gas Prompts Badung Regency to Organise Cheap Market Operations

The Badung Regency Government, in collaboration with Pertamina Patra Niaga, has initiated extra LPG distributions to combat the shortage of 3kg gas cylinders in Bali. This emergency measure includes 48 additional shipments and the organisation of cheap market operations in Dalung and Canggu to stabilise prices.

Minister of National Development Planning: Purpose of One Data Indonesia Bill is to Produce National Baseline Data

The Minister of National Development Planning stated that the proposed One Data Indonesia Bill aims to standardise vast amounts of existing data into accurate and reliable national baselines. The initiative seeks to create a unified data reference for national development without infringing upon the existing authorities of various ministries and agencies.

FORMAS Ready to Facilitate Collaboration Between Indonesian Entrepreneurs and Chinese Investors

The Forum Masyarakat Indonesia Emas (FORMAS) has announced its commitment to assisting Indonesian entrepreneurs in partnering with Chinese investors. The initiative aims to streamline business processes, overcome bureaucratic hurdles, and drive economic growth through job creation and knowledge exchange.

Pertamina prepares complaint service to prevent misuse of consumer QR codes

PT Pertamina (Persero) has introduced a complaint channel and a QR code reset mechanism to prevent the unauthorised use of the 'Subsidi Tepat' programme barcodes. The initiative aims to ensure that fuel subsidies, particularly for Pertalite, reach the intended recipients by blocking fraudulent access.

Ministry of Public Works Reorganises Lut Tawar Lake Area in Central Aceh

The Indonesian Ministry of Public Works is revitalising the Mendale tourist area at the edge of Lake Lut Tawar to enhance safety and comfort following hydrometeorological disasters. The project includes the construction of new kiosks, public facilities, and playground areas to support local tourism and community welfare.

Cinema to be Built in Gianyar Traditional Market, Costing Billions of Rupiah

The Gianyar Regency Government plans to construct a cinema on the fourth floor of the Gianyar Traditional Market in Bali. The multi-billion rupiah project will utilise blocks A and B of the market's upper level.