Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 21 September 2026

Showing 201-250 of 1,214 articles

2026 World Manufacturing Convention Officially Opens in Hefei, Anhui

The 2026 World Manufacturing Convention has commenced in Hefei, featuring the United Kingdom as the guest of honour. The event highlights significant industrial growth in Anhui province, showcasing massive investment projects and advancements in smart manufacturing and emerging strategic industries.

Bappenas Committed to Strengthening Financial Accountability and Governance

The Minister of National Development Planning has pledged to enhance financial accountability within Bappenas by implementing recommendations from the Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK). The ministry continues to demonstrate high standards of financial management, having recently secured Unqualified Opinions for several key financial reports.

Central Java Provincial Government Prepares Drivers to Meet Demand in Japan

The Central Java Provincial Government is collaborating with 3EEE Inc Japan to train and deploy skilled drivers to Japan. The initiative focuses on vocational training, Japanese language proficiency, and technical driving competencies to address Japan's growing labour shortage.

Civil War in Indonesia's Neighbour: Separatists Insist on Establishing Islamic State

The long-standing armed conflict in southern Thailand shows no signs of resolution as the Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN) reaffirms its commitment to establishing an independent Islamic state. Despite ongoing peace negotiations mediated by Malaysia, separatist leaders maintain that their struggle will continue until their political demands are met.

Russia Vows Retaliation After Moscow Targeted by Over a Thousand Ukrainian Drones

Russia has pledged a military response following a massive wave of Ukrainian drone attacks targeting Moscow and surrounding regions. The strikes, which involved over 1,600 drones, occurred during Russia's parliamentary elections and hit critical oil refinery infrastructure.

Anak Krakatau Volcano Status Officially Downgraded to Level II or Alert

The Geological Agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has downgraded the alert level of Anak Krakatau volcano from Level III (Alert) to Level II (Warning). This decision follows a decrease in volcanic seismic activity and deformation following a period of intense eruptions in early September 2026.

ADEM program drives equal education access across Indonesia: Ministry

The Indonesian Ministry's secondary education affirmation programme (ADEM) is facilitating educational opportunities for underprivileged children from Papua's highland regions. By providing scholarships for students to study in Java and Bali, the initiative aims to foster a new generation of disciplined leaders capable of driving development in remote frontier areas.

F&B Business Expansion Drives Growth of Jakarta's Culinary Ecosystem

Arena Gourmet has expanded its culinary portfolio with the launch of Sakura Blue Café at Arena Lakeside Kemayoran. The new neighbourhood café aims to capture changing urban consumption patterns by offering premium Japanese-quality donuts, pancakes, and specialty coffee.

Bamsoet Applauds Unpad Alumni Association for Facilitating 14 Couples Through Mass Wedding

Bambang Soesatyo, Chairman of the Advisory Board of the Padjadjaran University Alumni Association (PBA), has praised the sixth annual mass wedding programme which assisted 14 underprivileged couples. The event also featured an MSME bazaar, highlighting the integration of social welfare with economic empowerment for small businesses.

OJK Issues IDX Demutualisation Rules, POJK 13/2026 Prohibits Shareholders from Holding More Than 50%

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has officially enacted POJK 13/2026, providing the legal framework for the demutualisation of the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX). The new regulation aims to enhance market transparency and efficiency by allowing broader ownership while strictly preventing any single party from controlling more than 50% of the exchange.

Grand Dafam Braga Bandung Promotes Environmental Awareness through Waste Segregation

Grand Dafam Braga Bandung has implemented the 'The Arts of Goodness' initiative to enhance waste management practices within the hotel. This programme focuses on the systematic segregation of organic, inorganic, and non-recyclable waste to support Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles.

Minister of Primary and Secondary Education: Viral Video of NTT Primary School Unable to Use IFP Due to Lack of Electricity is Inaccurate

The Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu'ti, has clarified that a viral video claiming a primary school in East Nusa Tenggara cannot use Interactive Flat Panels (IFP) due to lack of electricity is misleading. While one specific classroom is currently out of order, the Minister confirmed that other classrooms in the school are fully operational and equipped with working technology.

JITEX 2026 Boosts Jakarta's Business Opportunities, Potential Transactions Reach Rp15.1 Trillion

The Jakarta International Investment, Trade, Tourism & SMEs Expo (JITEX 2026) has recorded potential B2B transactions and investments worth Rp15.1 trillion. The event, which hosted 275 domestic and international companies, aims to foster sustainable business relationships and expand export opportunities for Jakarta's SMEs.

East Nusa Tenggara Regional Police Name Indonesian Citizen a Suspect in Alleged Human Smuggling

The East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Regional Police have named an Indonesian man, identified by the initials DEL, as a suspect in the suspected smuggling of two foreign nationals to Australia. Authorities are currently investigating a wider network involving individuals from West Nusa Tenggara and potential financial backers.

PANDI and Aceh Provincial Government Discuss Opportunities for Jawi Script in Digital Space

The Indonesian Domain Name Registry (PANDI) and the Aceh Provincial Government are exploring the integration of Jawi script into the digital ecosystem through Internationalised Domain Names (IDN). The initiative aims to preserve linguistic heritage while potentially unlocking new opportunities within the creative economy.

MPR RI Discusses Strengthening Decentralisation, Highlights Central-Regional Relations

The Indonesian People's Consultative Assembly (MPR RI) held a discussion focusing on the implementation challenges of decentralisation and regional autonomy. Experts emphasised that issues in regional governance stem more from regulatory implementation and lack of meritocracy rather than constitutional flaws.

Former NTB Tourism Head Questioned by Audit Board Regarding State Losses in 2023 LSMC Corruption Case

The former Head of the West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Tourism Office, Jamaluddin Malady, has been interrogated by the Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) concerning state losses from the 2/23 Lombok Sumbawa Motocross Competition (LSMC). The investigation focuses on an identified loss of Rp 2.6 billion, part of which remains unrecovered.

Iran War Causes Europe to Face Shortage of 510,000 Barrels of Aviation Fuel per Day

The ongoing conflict involving Iran is projected to cause a deficit of 510,000 barrels of aviation fuel per day in Europe by the fourth quarter of 2026. This supply disruption is forcing a global shift in trade patterns, with Europe increasingly relying on long-distance imports from South Korea, the USA, and Canada.

10 Finalists Participate in Presentation Stage of 2026 National Outstanding Karang Taruna Awards

The final ten contestants of the 2026 National Outstanding Karang Taruna awards have entered the presentation and interview stage to showcase community innovation. The Ministry of Social Affairs intends to use these selected organisations as sites for future social intervention programmes and community empowerment initiatives.

6,120 New Students Encouraged to Become Drivers of Environmental Conservation

Over 6,000 new students at Jenderal Achmad Yani University (Unjani) in Cimahi have been introduced to environmental conservation initiatives. Supported by the Djarum Foundation, the programme aims to transform student awareness into tangible, sustainable actions on campus.

Prabowo Aims to Mix Indonesian Petrol with 50% Ethanol (E50), Here is the Reason

The Indonesian government is preparing a roadmap to implement E50 petrol, which contains a 50% ethanol blend, to reduce the nation's reliance on fuel imports. Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia highlighted that this initiative aims to bolster energy security amidst global geopolitical uncertainty.

Minister of Primary and Secondary Education responds to viral video regarding school in NTT unable to use IFP

The Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu'ti, has clarified that a viral video showing an elementary school in East Nusa Tenggara unable to use Interactive Flat Panels (IFP) due to lack of electricity is inaccurate. While one specific classroom lacks power, the Minister confirmed that other classrooms in the school are fully functional and equipped with working technology.

Arrival of Dubai Travel Agents and Executives: West Bandung Regency Targets Middle Eastern Tourists

The West Bandung Regency administration is actively engaging with investors and travel executives from Dubai to promote local tourism to the Middle Eastern market. Through business matching and familiarisation trips, the local government aims to diversify international tourist arrivals beyond traditional destinations like Bali.

Kendari Regional Council Finds Misuse of Fuel QR Codes During Petrol Station Inspection

The Kendari Regional Council (DPRD) has uncovered evidence of fuel QR code misuse during unannounced inspections at several petrol stations in Southeast Sulawesi. The findings suggest that station operators may be colluding with buyers to facilitate the illegal use of subsidised fuel codes for unauthorised vehicles.

Malang Police Hold Joint Assembly with Online Taxis and Traffic Volunteers to Strengthen Road Safety

The Malang District Police have partnered with ambulance volunteers, traffic volunteers (Supeltas), and online taxi drivers to enhance road safety and reduce accident rates. The initiative includes the distribution of operational equipment and first-aid training to encourage community-led traffic management.

North Bolaang Mongondow Regent Caught in KPK Sting Operation Over Alleged Road Project Bribery

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has conducted a sting operation involving the Regent of North Bolaang Mongondow, Sirajudin Lasena, regarding alleged bribes for road infrastructure projects. A total of 14 individuals, including government officials and private sector representatives, were detained during the operation.

Cruise ships to serve as holiday alternative for Eid 2027 trip to Singapore

StarDream Cruises has announced a new four-night round-trip itinerary from Jakarta to Singapore for the 2027 Eid al-Fitr holiday season. The cruise, featuring halal dining options, aims to provide a convenient and family-friendly travel alternative for Indonesian passengers.

Indonesia ASRI Movement: Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Encourages Reforestation in NTT

The Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Ribka Haluk, has called for massive and simultaneous reforestation efforts across East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). This initiative aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's 'Indonesia ASRI' programme, aiming to transform empty lands and residential areas into greener environments.

Qodari: Government Prioritises Job Security for KDKMP-KNMP Managers

The Indonesian government is focusing on ensuring clear employment terms and legal certainty for managers of the Merah Putih Village/Sub-district Cooperatives (KDKMP) and Merah Putih Fishing Villages (KNMP). This initiative aims to provide stability regarding contracts, wages, and social protection for those appointed to these priority programmes.

Claiming to be Trapped, 35 Indian Nationals Accused of Online Gambling Request Leniency

Thirty-five Indian nationals accused of involvement in an international online gambling network have requested leniency during their trial at the Denpasar District Court. The defendants claim they were victims of human trafficking, having been deceived by recruitment agents with promises of legitimate administrative roles.

Indonesia deports Filipino national for violating stay permit

The Tanjung Jabung Barat Immigration Office has deported a Filipino national following investigations into activities inconsistent with his stay permit. The enforcement action, carried out under Indonesia's 2011 Immigration Law, aims to strengthen the oversight of foreign nationals' presence and activities within the country.

Indonesian Citizens Flock to SR025 Retail Sukuk, Government Secures Rp29.7 Trillion

The Indonesian government has successfully raised Rp29.77 trillion through the sale of the SR025 retail Sharia-compliant securities. The issuance saw record-breaking participation, with the highest number of investors and sales volume recorded in the last decade.

Man in Jember Reported to Police After Claiming to Have Met Allah and Been Kissed by the Prophet

A man in Jember, East Java, has been reported to the police following viral social media videos in which he claims to have had direct encounters with Allah and the Prophet Muhammad. Local residents and religious leaders sought legal action after mediation attempts failed to convince the man to remove the controversial content.

Sudewo's Reaction Following Eight-and-a-Half Year Prison Sentence Demand in DJKA and Village Official Cases

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) prosecutors have demanded an eight-and-a-half-year prison sentence for the inactive Regent of Pati, Sudewo. The charges involve alleged bribery and gratification related to Directorate General of Railways (DJKA) projects and extortion in village official recruitment.

ASEAN Records US$243.9 Billion in Investments in 2025

Southeast Asia has successfully attracted US$243.9 billion in foreign investment by 2025, marking the fifth consecutive year of investments exceeding US$200 billion. The influx is primarily directed towards the electronics manufacturing and digital technology sectors, reinforcing the region's position as a stable destination amidst global economic uncertainty.

NTB Museum begins preparing exhibition layout for MotoGP Mandalika 2026

The West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) State Museum is preparing a cultural exhibition titled 'Speed, Energy, and Connection' to coincide with the MotoGP Mandalika event in October 2026. The exhibition aims to showcase local historical artefacts that parallel the themes of speed and energy found in international motorcycle racing.

Jakarta police seize 25.2 kg of meth worth US$1.68 million

Central Jakarta police have intercepted a significant drug shipment, seizing approximately 25.2 kilograms of methamphetamine valued at US$1.68 million. The arrest followed a high-speed pursuit of a 47-year-old suspect who was acting as an intermediary for a larger trafficking network. The suspect now faces potential charges that carry a maximum penalty of death or life imprisonment.

Silmy Karim sues KPK over asset seizure and suspect designation

Former Deputy Minister of Immigration and Correctional Services, Silmy Karim, has filed a pretrial motion against the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) regarding his designation as a suspect. The lawsuit challenges the legality of several investigation orders and the seizure of assets related to an alleged extortion case involving foreign national stay permits.

Coordinating Ministry for Community Empowerment Strengthens Protection and Independence for Deaf Online Taxi Drivers

The Coordinating Ministry for Community Empowerment is implementing initiatives to enhance the safety, skills, and financial literacy of deaf online motorcycle taxi drivers. The programme focuses on providing social security access and professional training to foster greater independence and economic stability for persons with disabilities.

Seaweed Only Exported Raw, Titiek Soeharto Calls for Downstreaming to Final Products

Chairperson of Commission IV of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Titiek Soeharto, has urged the government to prioritise the downstream processing of seaweed within Indonesia. She highlighted the inefficiency of exporting raw seaweed extracts only to re-import finished products like organic liquid fertiliser, while also calling for reduced bureaucratic overlap between maritime and quarantine agencies.

Qodari: Protecting the People, Government Strengthens Oversight of Fortified Rice

The Indonesian Government is intensifying supervision of fortified rice products following allegations that several brands do not meet nutritional standards. This move aims to protect consumers and ensure that producers are held accountable for misleading nutritional claims and unfair pricing.

Moeldoko Expresses Concerns to Parliament Over Ban on Electric Cars and Motorcycles on Sea Vessels

The Chairman of the Indonesian Electric Vehicle Industry Association (Periklindo), Moeldoko, has raised concerns regarding the prohibition of transporting electric vehicles via sea routes. The issue stems from safety concerns regarding lithium battery fires, which is creating significant distribution hurdles for smaller manufacturers.

Rape Victim in Southeast Sulawesi Appreciates Police for Swift Arrest of Perpetrator

A 44-year-old woman in Kendari has expressed her gratitude to the police for the rapid apprehension of her former husband following a sexual assault and robbery. The victim also clarified that she did not face any intimidation from authorities during the investigation process.

OJK maintains that provision of 'special rates' must be carried out in a measurable manner

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has advised banks to exercise caution when offering preferential interest rates to large depositors to avoid excessive cost of funds. The regulator warned that aggressive competition for deposits could undermine bank profitability and limit the potential for lowering credit interest rates.

Tourist Arrivals to Bali Remain Stable Despite Surge in Hotel and Villa Sales

Bali Governor Wayan Koster has dismissed concerns regarding a decline in tourism, asserting that visitor numbers remain steady despite the recent trend of selling hotels and villas. He attributed the property sales to broader business strategies rather than a drop in demand, while also highlighting an increase in the collection of the Foreign Tourist Levy.

KPK Uncovers Sting Operation Involving Regent of North Bolaang Mongondow Over Road Projects

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has conducted a sting operation involving the Regent of North Bolaang Mongondow, Sirajudin Lasena, regarding infrastructure projects. The operation resulted in the arrest of 14 individuals, including a department head and private sector representatives, following allegations of bribery.

IDAI recommends annual influenza vaccination for children

The Indonesian Pediatric Society (IDAI) has advised annual influenza vaccinations for children aged six months and above to mitigate infection risks and complications. This recommendation comes amid rising influenza activity across Southeast Asia and the detection of specific influenza subtypes in several Indonesian provinces.

KPK Seizes Hundreds of Millions of Rupiah During Sting Operation Against Regent Sirajudin

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has conducted a sting operation resulting in the arrest of the Regent of North Bolaang Mongondow, Sirajudin Lasena. During the operation, investigators seized hundreds of millions of rupiah in cash and detained a total of 14 individuals.

Hyundai warns US market to learn from Europe regarding Chinese manufacturers

Hyundai Motor CEO Jose Munoz has cautioned the US automotive market, suggesting that the rapid expansion of Chinese brands in Europe serves as a warning. He noted that without significant trade barriers, Chinese manufacturers could quickly dominate markets, much like the current trend observed in the United Kingdom.

West Java Provincial Government to Provide Employment Insurance for 5.4 Million Informal Workers by 2027

The West Java Provincial Government plans to significantly expand employment insurance coverage to 5.4 million informal workers by 2027. The initiative involves the provincial and local governments subsidising BPJS Ketenagakerjaan premiums for vulnerable groups including farmers, fishermen, and street vendors.