Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 21 September 2026

Showing 151-200 of 1,214 articles

The Rp 3,438 Trillion Man Opens Up About the World's Future in 2030

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has dismissed fears regarding an AI-driven apocalypse, asserting there is a 0% chance of AI causing the end of the world by 2030. His comments come amidst a major antitrust lawsuit against AI giants and a growing political divide in the US over AI regulation.

MPR Speaker Ahmad Muzani Meets with China's CPPCC Chairman Wang Huning

The Speaker of the Indonesian People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), Ahmad Muzani, held a high-level meeting with China's CPPCC Chairman Wang Huning in Beijing. The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations, maintaining regional peace, and supporting each nation's strategic interests and economic prosperity.

Indonesia-South Korea Trade Value Reaches US$10.3 Billion, Bank Woori Saudara Strengthens Services

Trade between Indonesia and South Korea reached approximately US$10.3 billion between January and July 2026, creating significant opportunities for trade finance. Bank Woori Saudara is positioned to capitalise on this momentum by leveraging its connection to South Korea to expand its foreign exchange and export-import financing services.

Ministry of Housing discusses KPR recycling option to accelerate subsidized housing for low-income earners

The Ministry of Housing and Residential Areas is exploring a 'recycling' scheme for mortgages to repurpose non-performing loan (NPL) properties for low-income families. This initiative aims to increase the supply of affordable housing by utilising existing vacant properties held by banks.

Minister Ara Speaks Openly About His Health Condition

The Minister of Housing and Residential Areas, Maruarar Sirait, has shared updates regarding his recent medical procedure and recovery. Despite the health setback, the Minister remains focused on accelerating the distribution of subsidised housing to meet the government's 2026 targets.

China cultivates 14 plant species in space station

China has successfully cultivated over 20 varieties across 14 different plant species aboard the Tiangong space station. This breakthrough in space agriculture aims to create self-sustaining ecosystems to reduce reliance on Earth during long-term space missions.

Police Mediation Leads to Amicable Settlement in BYD and Taxi Driver Incident on West Jakarta Toll Road

A collision involving a BYD electric vehicle and a Green SM electric taxi on the Tomang Toll Road has been resolved through police mediation. The driver of the BYD vehicle apologised to the taxi driver, who was dragged for approximately 50 metres, and both parties have agreed to settle the matter out of court.

Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Responds to Viral Report of Smart Board Delivery to School Without Electricity

The Indonesian Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu'ti, has refuted claims that a school in East Nusa Tenggara received unusable digital equipment due to a lack of electricity. While the viral video showed a classroom in disrepair, the Minister clarified that other classrooms in the school remain functional and operational.

Strengthening Premium Rice Supply to Retailers, Minister of Agriculture Delivers Message to Bulog

The Minister of Agriculture, Andi Amran Sulaiman, has instructed Bulog to increase the distribution of premium rice to retail networks to ensure public availability. With national stocks estimated at 4.6 million tonnes, the government aims to stabilise prices through market operations and food assistance programmes.

UIN Yogyakarta Archive Exhibition Recalls Long History of PTAIN Establishment

UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta is hosting an archival exhibition titled 'RINTISAN' to commemorate the 75th anniversary of its institution. The exhibition showcases historical documents, photographs, and newspapers that trace the university's evolution from its origins as PTAIN in 1951 to its current status as a prominent academic institution.

Sri Lanka records highest unemployment rate among highly educated youth

Sri Lanka has recorded the highest unemployment rate among highly educated young people compared to other Asian economies studied by the IMF. The findings highlight a significant mismatch between academic qualifications and the practical skills required by employers in South Asia.

Dudung Inspects Community-Based Irrigation Project in Deli Serdang

The Chief of Staff to the President, Dudung Abdurachman, visited the Community-Based Infrastructure (IBM) irrigation project in Deli Serdang, North Sumatra. The inspection aimed to ensure that water distribution reaches local farmers' fields to support the national food self-sufficiency programme.

Social Affairs Minister Urges Social Services to Expand Social Protection Agents for Welfare Data Update

Minister of Social Affairs Saifullah Yusuf has called on Social Services departments across Indonesia to increase the number of Social Protection Agents to support the National Movement for Caring for Neighbours. The initiative aims to utilise AI-driven digital systems to update national socio-economic data and ensure social assistance reaches the most vulnerable populations.

Tegal Alur pedestrian bridge construction remains unfinished after three weeks

The construction of a temporary pedestrian bridge in Tegal Alur, West Jakarta, has stalled despite initial promises of a two-week completion timeframe. Local residents are facing significant difficulties accessing markets and cemeteries, forcing them to take much longer alternative routes.

PDIP to follow up on WALHI complaints regarding Sumatra disaster recovery

The PDIP faction of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) has pledged to escalate complaints from WALHI and local residents regarding post-disaster recovery in Sumatra to relevant ministries. The discussions highlighted concerns over stalled rehabilitation efforts despite available funding and the ongoing impact of mining and palm oil activities on ecological stability.

Bekasi RDF Plant to Process 1,250 Tonnes of Waste Per Day, Operations Set for Early 2027

A new Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) processing plant in Bekasi Regency, West Java, is scheduled to begin production in early January 2027. The facility aims to process 1,250 tonnes of landfill waste daily to produce 650 tonnes of RDF, with PT Indocement Tunggal Prakarsa Tbk secured as the primary offtaker.

Investment and Downstreaming in North Maluku Must Create Jobs and Business Opportunities

A member of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Izzuddin Alqassam Kasuba, has called for industrial growth in North Maluku to translate into tangible benefits for local communities. He emphasised that downstream industries and smelters must integrate local MSMEs into their supply chains to ensure economic prosperity reaches the grassroots level.

Residents Obstructing Police Arrest of Methamphetamine Dealer in Sumbawa Facing Legal Action

Local residents in Sumbawa, West Nusa Tenggara, are facing legal proceedings after obstructing a police operation to arrest a drug dealer. The confrontation resulted in a police officer sustaining machete wounds during the raid.

Jakarta-owned Enterprises urged to strengthen public information transparency

The Jakarta Information Commission (KI) is calling on all Regional Owned Enterprises (BUMD) to enhance public information disclosure through improved digital services and stronger information management officers. The initiative aims to bolster Good Corporate Governance (GCG) and foster public trust through increased transparency and accountability.

Nephew of 'Sang Pengadil' Producer Admits to Gambling in Singapore; Judge Asks: 'Does Your Uncle Play Too?'

During a money laundering trial involving film producer Agung Winarno, the defendant's nephew testified that a portion of the seized US dollars originated from gambling in Singapore. The witness admitted that his uncle also occasionally participated in gambling sessions at Marina Bay Sands.

Growing Stocks Are Not Always Good Investments

Drawing on the principles of Benjamin Graham, this article warns investors against the dangers of overpaying for growth stocks. It highlights that high-quality companies can become risky investments if market enthusiasm drives share prices far beyond their fundamental earnings potential.

Prices of This Power Source Have Dropped Drastically, and Indonesia Holds the Greatest Potential

The cost of solar energy has plummeted from approximately Rp 9,000 per watt to just Rp 1,900 per watt due to massive production surges in China. This drastic reduction presents a significant opportunity for Indonesia to leverage its equatorial position to lower living costs and transition towards becoming a clean energy exporter.

Bawaslu: Students Play a Vital Role in Overseeing Election Law Enforcement

The Chairman of the Indonesian Election Supervisory Body (Bawaslu), Rahmat Bagja, has highlighted the importance of student involvement in monitoring election law enforcement. He emphasised that students can provide essential external perspectives through legal debate and argumentation to ensure impartiality in the electoral process.

Bali’s Top Tourism Destinations Prepare For Rainy Season

The Denpasar City Council has urged the local government to strengthen flood mitigation measures ahead of the upcoming rainy season. Following devastating floods in 2025, officials are calling for river normalisation, drainage cleaning, and enhanced early warning systems to protect key tourism areas.

Malaysia Expresses Solidarity with Saudi Arabian Government

The Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a statement condemning Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, specifically targeting civilians and public infrastructure. Malaysia reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Saudi sovereignty and international law while calling for an immediate end to the conflict.

IKN Reg. 9/2026: Land Rights, Incentives & Business Ease

The Nusantara Capital Authority has established Regulation No. 9/2026 to enhance the ease of doing business and provide investment facilities within the new capital. The regulation introduces streamlined processes for land rights, fiscal incentives, and exemptions from foreign worker compensation to accelerate investment realisation in IKN.

South Kalimantan Police DVI Sends DNA Samples of Virgo Ship Victims to Forensic Laboratory

The Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) team of the South Kalimantan Regional Police has sent DNA samples from the victims of the Virgo Transport 8 shipwreck to the National Police Forensic Medicine Laboratory in Jakarta. The procedure is necessary because the bodies have become difficult to identify after being submerged in seawater for nine days.

Trump Set to Impose Comprehensive Sanctions on ICC, Threatening to Paralyse War Crimes Court

The Trump administration is preparing to expand sanctions against the International Criminal Court (ICC), targeting the entire institution rather than just specific officials. These measures could severely disrupt the court's operations, including its ability to access financial services and pay staff.

Discussing Investment to Technology, Indonesia and Bulgaria Strengthen Industrial Cooperation

Indonesia and Bulgaria are seeking to deepen industrial ties through enhanced trade, investment, and technological exchange. The discussions focused on strategic sectors such as manufacturing, agro-industry, and the development of industrial clusters and Eco-Industrial Parks.

Tourism Office Responds to Rise in Illegal Levies at Central Lombok Attractions

The Central Lombok Tourism Office is addressing reports of widespread illegal levies at popular tourist destinations such as Bukit Seger and Benang Kelambu. Officials are coordinating with provincial authorities to clarify land status and enforce regional regulations to protect the local tourism industry.

Hashim-Managed Natuna Gas Block Contains High CO2, Is Development Realistic?

PT Nations Petroleum, owned by Hashim Djojohadimuskumo, has been awarded the Natuna D-Alpha block, which holds massive gas reserves but faces high CO2 levels. The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources suggests that recent advancements in gas processing technology may finally make this high-carbon project economically viable.

Riau Islands Regional Police Name Three Suspects in Batam Setokok Land Conflict

The Riau Islands Regional Police have identified three suspects involved in a violent land dispute on Setokok Island, Batam. The incident, which involved clashes between different community groups and a company over land boundaries, resulted in several injuries and the seizure of weapons.

Deputy Minister Applauds Indisi and IDX for Providing Financial Literacy to 210 Students with Disabilities

Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Social Affairs, Agus Jabo Priyono, has commended the Indonesian Disability Institution (Indisi) and the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) for conducting financial literacy training for students from special needs schools. The initiative aims to foster an inclusive employment ecosystem and empower persons with disabilities to become active economic participants.

Kemayoran Car Market Hit by Fire, 22 Fire Trucks Deployed to Scene

A significant fire has broken out at the Kemayoran Car Market in Central Jakarta. Emergency services have deployed 22 fire engines and 88 personnel to combat the blaze, which was reported on Monday evening.

Indonesian police arrest man over theft from German-owned yacht

Sorong City Police have apprehended one suspect following a theft aboard a German-owned yacht anchored in Southwest Papua. The incident resulted in losses estimated at Rp250 million, and authorities are currently pursuing four other suspects involved in the crime.

Ambassador Sergey Tolchenov: Russia remains supportive of solutions and peace negotiations

The Russian Ambassador to Indonesia, Sergey Tolchenov, has reaffirmed Russia's commitment to a peaceful resolution through negotiations, provided that Ukraine's security concerns and Russia's interests are addressed. He criticised Western approaches, suggesting that any peace must be lasting and include the exclusion of NATO from Ukraine.

Many Indonesian Officials Possess Wealth Disproportionate to Official Income

Former KPK leader Erry Riyana Hardjapamekas has highlighted the growing disparity between the wealth of Indonesian officials and their legitimate earnings. He attributes this phenomenon to weak law enforcement, a lack of effective checks and balances, and insufficient accountability within the government.

Police Officer Yayat Sudrajat, Searched by KPK, Holds Dozens of Luxury Assets

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revealed that police officer Yayat Sudrajat possesses numerous luxury assets across various regions, including Jakarta and Bogor. This discovery follows searches conducted at his residences in connection with a bribery case involving Bekasi Regency officials.

Elong Hotel Technology Group Accelerates Global Expansion via Elong Brand Family, Targeting 'Second Growth Curve'

Elong Hotel Technology Group is aggressively expanding its international presence through its 'Three Pioneers for Global Expansion' strategy. The group has already secured partnerships in several countries, including Indonesia, with its Jakarta PIK property reporting occupancy rates exceeding 90%.

Bahlil states non-tax state revenue from mining increases despite government production quota cuts

The Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Bahlil Lahadalia, has reported an increase in non-tax state revenue (PNBP) from the coal and mineral sectors. This growth has occurred despite the government implementing production quota reductions through the Work Plan and Budget (RKAB) to stabilise international commodity prices.

Mu'ti Issues Regulations on Cadet Corps Extracurricular Activities, Not Mandatory for Students

The Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu'ti, has introduced new regulations regarding the formation of the Cadet Corps extracurricular programme. While the programme aims to strengthen national defence awareness, the Minister clarified that only Scouts remain a mandatory extracurricular activity for students.

Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Clarifies Rules on Cadet Corps National Defence Extracurricular

The Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu'ti, has clarified that the 'Korps Kadet' national defence programme is an optional extracurricular activity for students. He emphasised that only Scouts remain mandatory, and the implementation of the programme will be managed by individual schools.

IPB Patriot Expedition Team Installs Weather Monitoring Tools for Merauke Farmers

An expedition team from IPB University has installed Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) in the Kurik District of Merauke to combat climate uncertainty. This technological initiative aims to provide real-time weather data to help local and transmigrant farmers optimise crop productivity and mitigate risks such as drought and pests.

WIKA Accelerates Construction of KSCS Package 3 Karian–Serpong to Support Raw Water Transmission for Banten and Jakarta

State-owned enterprise PT Wijaya Karya (Persero) Tbk (WIKA) has reached 24.67% progress on the Karian Dam–Serpong Water Conveyance System (KSUS) Package 3 project. The strategic infrastructure aims to bolster water security for Banten and Jakarta while reducing reliance on groundwater extraction.

Ketua Dekranasda Tanah Laut Dian Rahmat Raih Apresiasi Swara Cantika 2026

The Chairperson of Dekranasda Tanah Laut, Dian Rahmat, has received the Swara Cantika 2026 award for her initiatives in driving MSME development through traditional Sasirangan fabrics. Her programmes focus on digitalising motif production and expanding international market access, including successful exhibitions in Belgium.

Cianjur Disaster Management Agency Records Eight Houses Flooded in Gekbrong

Heavy rainfall in Gekbrong, Cianjur, has caused drainage systems to overflow, submerging eight houses under 60 centimetres of water. The flooding has forced 24 residents to evacuate to safer locations as authorities work to clear debris from blocked waterways.

Comarch Recognised as Leader in IDC MarketScape 2026 for Worldwide Compliant E-Invoicing Solutions

Comarch has been named a Leader in the IDC MarketScape assessment for worldwide compliant e-invoicing solutions. The recognition highlights the company's ability to help international businesses manage complex regulatory requirements across more than 70 markets through a unified global platform.

Social Affairs Minister and Deputy Minister Meet with Jakarta Coalition to Discuss Social Assistance Distribution and Data Matching

Indonesia's Minister of Social Affairs, Saifullah Yusuf, met with the Jakarta Citizens Coalition for Justice (KWJK) to address discrepancies in social assistance distribution and data accuracy. The meeting focused on verifying citizen-submitted data and resolving issues where individuals were wrongly flagged due to suspected online gambling links.

Minister of Primary and Secondary Education commits to revitalising 1,487 schools to restore NTT

The Indonesian Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu'ti, has pledged to revitalise 1,487 educational units in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) following earthquake damage. The initiative includes a budget of Rp1.2 trillion aimed at repairing heavily damaged buildings and replacing temporary classrooms with permanent structures.

North Bolaang Mongondow Regent Caught in Sting Operation Related to Public Works Projects

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has conducted a sting operation involving the Regent of North Bolaang Mongondow, Sirajudin Lasena, regarding alleged corruption in public works projects. The investigation focuses on suspected bribery related to road infrastructure development within the local Public Works and Spatial Planning Department.