Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 24 September 2026

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Tito: Penyengat Language Monument Marks the Historical Origins of the Indonesian Language

Minister of Home Affairs Tito Karnavian has laid the foundation stone for a national language museum and monument on Penyengat Island, Riau Islands. The project aims to preserve the historical link between the Malay language and the development of Indonesian as a national unifying language.

DVI Utilises 200-Capacity Cold Containers for Virgo Ship Victims

The South Kalimantan Regional Police's Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) team has deployed cold containers to preserve the bodies of victims from the Virgo Transport 8 tragedy. The specialised units aim to slow decomposition to ensure accurate identification through DNA testing.

KSOP: 22 KM Virgo Survivors Confirmed to be on Manifest

The Banjarmasin Port Authority (KSOP) has clarified that 22 survivors of the KM Virgo Transport 8 accident were indeed recorded on the ship's manifest. The initial discrepancy arose because the passengers used nicknames on the manifest during departure from Surabaya, which did not match their official identity cards.

New ASEAN Study Reveals Businesses Are Rethinking Hiring and Investment as Growth Priorities Shift

A new regional study reveals that businesses across ASEAN are adopting more selective hiring practices to focus on long-term capability building. Notably, Indonesia leads the region in business confidence at 66%, while 71% of Indonesian consumers are actively seeking additional income to strengthen their financial positions.

Indonesia-South Korea Collaboration: Driving Cooperative and SME Transformation Through AI and Smart Factory Technology

A collaborative seminar between Indonesia and South Korea has been held to promote the adoption of smart data, AI, and smart factory technologies among Indonesian cooperatives and SMEs. The initiative, part of the Official Development Assistance (ODA) Smart Factory programme, aims to enhance productivity and competitiveness through practical digital transformation and technological support.

Attorney General Mutates District Attorneys for Central, South, and North Jakarta

The Attorney General of Indonesia, ST Burhanuddin, has implemented a series of structural mutations involving several District Attorneys, including key positions in Jakarta. The reshuffle, formalised in a decree dated 22 September 2026, affects 16 officials across various regional and central offices.

Coordinating Minister Yusril Investigating Bechi's Parole Process

Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Correctional Affairs, Yusril Ihza Mahendra, is reviewing the parole application of Moch Subchi Azal Tsani, known as Bechi. The investigation aims to ensure that any remissions or early release privileges were not obtained through fraudulent means.

The Resilience of Prajogo Pangestu's Listed Companies

PT Chandra Daya Investasi Tbk (CDIA), part of the Barito Pacific Group, reported a 22.8% year-on-year revenue growth to US$81.2 million in the first half of 2026. Despite the revenue increase, net profit fell significantly due to the absence of one-off gains recorded in the previous year.

Basarnas: 93 victims of KM Virgo still inside sunken vessel

The National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) reports that 93 individuals remain missing following the sinking of the KM Virgo Transport 8 in the Java Sea. Search operations continue amidst challenges posed by the unstable position of the shipwreck on the seabed.

Ministry of Public Works distributes 286,000 litres of water to 10 regions in West Java

The Indonesian Ministry of Public Works has deployed water tankers and hydrants to combat drought conditions across 10 regencies and cities in West Java. This emergency intervention aims to support approximately 57,200 residents facing reduced water availability due to the dry season.

Labour Bill responds to changes in the digital work ecosystem

The proposed Labour Protection Bill aims to address the evolving nature of work driven by technological advancements, specifically focusing on digital platform workers. The legislation seeks to shift the focus of labour protection from merely maintaining specific jobs to ensuring workers can adapt through upskilling and reskilling.

Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Prepares 33 Vessels in Arafura to Boost Capture Fisheries Production

The Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries is deploying 33 Indonesian-flagged vessels to the Arafura Sea as part of a new technical cooperation agreement with China. The initiative aims to modernise the fishing fleet, increase national production by an estimated 9,500 tonnes annually, and generate approximately Rp65 billion in non-tax state revenue.

Home Affairs Minister: Riau Islands Progressing at 24 Years of Age

Minister of Home Affairs Tito Karnavian highlighted the significant developmental leaps in the Riau Islands province, noting its evolution from a part of Riau Province to a major economic hub. Governor Ansar Ahmad emphasised the importance of inter-island connectivity and social welfare programmes to ensure equitable economic growth across the archipelago.

Public Service Digitalisation Strengthened in Makassar

PLN Icon Plus is expanding its digital connectivity infrastructure in South Sulawesi to support modernised government administration. The initiative aims to enhance the efficiency, transparency, and responsiveness of public services through integrated digital solutions and green energy ecosystems.

Issue of Journalist's Body from Krakatau in Mukomuko: Police Urge Caution

The Mukomuko Police Department has urged the public not to jump to conclusions regarding the identity and cause of death of a man found on the coast of Rawa Bangun Village. This follows unverified rumours linking the deceased to a group of journalists reported missing near Mount Anak Krakatau.

AllianzGI: Indonesian bond market continues to demonstrate stability

Allianz Global Investors (AllianzGI) Indonesia reports that the domestic bond market remains stable despite rising US Treasury yields. The firm highlights that Indonesia's robust foreign exchange reserves and conservative fiscal projections help mitigate investor concerns regarding fiscal sustainability.

Former CEO of PPSJ Faces Legal Charges Over Alleged Rp80 Billion State Loss

Yoory Corneles Pinontoan, the former CEO of Perumda Pembangunan Sarana Jaya (PPSJ), has been indicted for corruption involving land procurement in North Jakarta. The prosecution alleges that the scheme, involving several other defendants, resulted in state losses of approximately Rp80 billion.

Basarnas and Indonesian Navy Deploy 54 Divers for Day 13 of KM Virgo SAR Operation

Basarnas and the Indonesian Navy have increased their search and rescue efforts for the victims of the KM Virgo Transport 8 accident in the Java Sea. A total of 54 divers have been deployed to conduct multiple underwater sorties, aiming to intensify the search operations provided weather conditions remain favourable.

China commits to strengthening ASEAN cooperation amidst Middle East conflict

China has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing practical cooperation with ASEAN nations to foster global stability amidst Middle East tensions. The announcement highlights the growing economic interdependence between the two regions, marked by significant trade and investment volumes.

Jakarta DPRD Member Donates Monthly Salary and Allowances to Jelambar Fire Victims

Hardiyanto Kenneth, a member of the Jakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD), has donated Rp70 million from his personal salary and allowances to assist residents affected by a fire in West Jakarta. The funds are intended to help rebuild seven houses and alleviate the immediate needs of the displaced families.

2,033 Households Face Clean Water Crisis; Jember BPBD Responds with Aid Distribution

A prolonged drought in 2026 has left over 2,000 households across ten districts in Jember, East Java, struggling with a shortage of clean water. The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) is actively coordinating water deliveries using various water tankers to mitigate the crisis.

SMPN 1 Kopo Students Learn History and Statecraft at the Palace

Students from SMPN 1 Kopo, Banten, participated in the 'Palace for Schoolchildren' programme with a visit to the Jakarta Presidential Palace. The initiative aims to provide out-of-classroom education regarding national governance and historical values to foster leadership and national insight among the younger generation.

Microsoft to Invest USD 1.7 Billion in Indonesia, Meutya Emphasises Strategic Importance

The Indonesian Minister of Communication and Digital, Meutya Hafid, has welcomed Microsoft's USD 1.7 billion investment commitment into Indonesia's cloud and AI infrastructure. The Minister emphasised that this investment should facilitate technology transfer and talent development to bolster the nation's digital ecosystem.

Indonesia Aims to Realise Free Education Bid by 2028

The Indonesian government aims to implement President Prabowo Subianto's free education programme for public schools and universities by 2028. The initiative requires an estimated budget of approximately Rp300 trillion, with an initial Rp5 trillion allocated for a pilot project targeting underdeveloped and frontier regions.

MES shifts focus from research to developing young entrepreneurs

The Indonesian Sharia Economic Community (MES) is pivoting its strategy from academic studies to the concrete promotion of young Muslim entrepreneurs. This shift aims to bridge the significant gap between the 43 per cent Sharia financial literacy rate and the much lower 13.24 per cent inclusion rate in Indonesia.

Labuhan Haji Park Management Lowers Entrance Fees to Rp 15,000 Following Viral Social Media Backlash

The management of Labuhan Haji Tourism Park in East Lombok has reduced its vehicle entrance fee from Rp 20,000 to Rp 15,000 following widespread criticism on social media. The decision follows a clarification meeting with the local Tourism Office after a visitor questioned the transparency of the previous pricing structure.

Residents and Students Affected by Forest Fires in Central Kalimantan Receive Aid, Including Food Supplies and Vitamins

The Central Kalimantan Provincial Government has launched a comprehensive aid distribution programme to support communities affected by forest and land fires. The assistance includes food supplies, clean water, medical supplies, and cash transfers to residents and students across several regencies.

Free Nutritious Meal Programme Seen as Potential Driver for Regional Food Supply Chains

The Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme is expected to stimulate regional economies by creating predictable demand for farmers, fishermen, and small businesses. Experts suggest that integrating local cooperatives and pesantren-based entrepreneurs into the supply chain can strengthen food security and local economic activity.

KAI North Sumatra Preserves Six Railway Heritage Buildings

PT KAI Regional Division I North Sumatra has committed to the maintenance and management of six heritage buildings over 100 years old. This initiative aims to preserve railway history while ensuring the continued provision of public services.

Apindo Urges Increased Training Funds to Address Skills Gap

The Indonesian Employers Association (Apindo) has called for greater government investment in vocational upskilling and reskilling to bridge the nation's 36 per cent skills gap. Bob Azam, Head of Labour for Apindo, highlighted the disparity between high funding for white-collar education and the minimal budget allocated for blue-collar vocational training.

Ambassador Wang Optimistic that China-ASEAN Will Continue to Drive Asian Development

The Chinese Ambassador to ASEAN, Wang Qing, expressed confidence that the partnership between China and ASEAN will remain a primary engine for Asian growth and a model for South-South cooperation. He highlighted the significant milestone of bilateral trade exceeding US$1 trillion and the upcoming implementation of the ACFTA 3.0 protocol.

Indonesia-Saudi Arabia Partnership Strengthened under Vision 2030

The Saudi Arabian Ambassador to Indonesia, Faisal Abdullah Al-Amoudi, has highlighted significant opportunities for bilateral cooperation driven by Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. The partnership aims to expand collaboration across sectors including trade, investment, energy, and tourism between the two G20 nations.

Head of BRIN: President Emphasises Village-Based Forest Fire Prevention Moving Forward

The Head of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has announced President Prabowo Subianto's focus on precision-based, village-led forest and land fire prevention. The strategy involves integrating advanced AI technology with community-based approaches to protect peatland and mangrove ecosystems.

Prabowo Aims for Science-Based Peatland Management, Involving Experts and Local Communities

President Prabowo Subianto has announced plans to implement science-based management for Indonesia's peatlands, involving academics and village communities to prevent peat fires. The initiative includes the formation of the National Peatland and Mangrove Management Agency (BPGMN) to centralise data and management permits.

Raja Juli: PSI reviewing proposal to separate Legislative and Presidential Elections

The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) is currently evaluating the proposal to decouple legislative and presidential elections. Secretary General Raja Juli Antoni emphasised that the party is focusing on ensuring electoral regulations protect voter representation and prevent wasted votes.

Attorney General's Office Mutates 16 Officials, Including South Jakarta Prosecutor

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has announced a reshuffle involving 16 officials, including the transfer of the South Jakarta District Attorney. The mutations, formalised via a decree signed by the Junior Attorney General for Coaching, involve several key appointments across various regional prosecutor offices.

KSBSI: Labour market requires adaptive regulation for Indonesia's economy

The President of the Confederation of All Indonesian Trade Unions (KSBSI) has called for a 'flexicurity' model that balances business flexibility with worker protection. The proposal emphasises the need for integrated social safety nets and improved skills training to ensure long-term economic sustainability and global competitiveness.

Revealed: European Boycott Impacting Israel's Military Supply Chains

The Israeli military has admitted that boycotts imposed by several European nations are directly hindering the development and procurement of military equipment, particularly in the naval sector. These restrictions have caused significant delays in the delivery of submarines and warship components.

Legal Team Claims No Evidence of Seized Cash from Former Ombudsman Head

The legal team representing former Ombudsman RI Chairman Hery Susanto has highlighted the absence of seized cash or gifts as evidence in his bribery case involving nickel mining governance. The defence argues that key witnesses have refuted allegations of bribery, and that the defendant has no known connection to the companies implicated in the indictment.

Prabowo orders scientists, villagers involved in peatland agency

President Prabowo has approved the establishment of a dedicated agency to manage Indonesia's 33 million hectares of peatland through a science-based approach. The initiative aims to streamline management processes and prevent recurring forest fires by integrating scientific research with local community knowledge and grassroots empowerment.

Gianyar Regency Studies Modernisation of 100-Hectare Rice Area in Jembrana

The Gianyar Regency Government is studying the implementation of the Modern-Agriculture Advanced System (PM-AAS) following a visit to a pilot project in Jembrana. The initiative aims to assess how advanced agricultural technology can enhance productivity and efficiency while remaining compatible with local subak irrigation systems.

Boni Hargens States Security of Labour Protests Proves Police are Becoming More Humanist

Political and legal analyst Boni Hargens has praised the Indonesian National Police for their humanistic approach during recent labour demonstrations. He noted that the peaceful conduct of the protests reflects a maturing democracy and a successful cultural transformation within the police force.

Gekraf pushes market optimisation through diaspora in Saudi Arabia

The National Creative Economy Movement (Gekrafs) has inaugurated its Overseas Representative Council (DPLN) for Saudi Arabia for the 2026โ€“2029 period. The initiative aims to leverage the Indonesian diaspora to expand market access and foster business collaborations between Indonesian creative entrepreneurs and the Saudi Arabian market.

Deputy Chair of Commission X Warns Free State Universities Must Not Sacrifice Educational Quality

The Deputy Chair of Commission X, Lalu Hadrian, has urged that the plan for free state universities (PTN) be treated as a long-term investment that requires careful budgetary planning. He emphasised that the proposed Rp 93.7 trillion budget must be verified to ensure that eliminating tuition fees does not deplete funds for lecturer quality, research, and infrastructure.

Enthusiasm Grows for Penjor Competition in Kemoning Klungkung, with Single Penjor Costing Rp 45 Million

A traditional Penjor competition in Kemoning, Klungkung, has seen a significant surge in participant enthusiasm as part of the Purnama Kapat celebrations. Some elaborate decorations cost up to Rp 45 million to produce, though organisers emphasise that artistic merit and philosophy take precedence over expenditure.

Papuan Indigenous Leaders: KKB Shooting of Civilians is Inhumane

Indigenous leaders in Papua have condemned the recent shooting of three civilians in the Muliama District, allegedly carried out by the Armed Criminal Group (KKB). The leaders called for increased security patrols and urged local communities to support government development programmes to maintain peace in the region.

KRI Sriwijaya-100 Officially Joins Indonesian Navy Fleet as Nation's First Aircraft Carrier

The Indonesian National Armed Forces have officially commissioned the KRI Sriwijaya-100, marking the arrival of the country's first aircraft carrier. Acquired through a government-to-government grant from Italy, the vessel is expected to enhance maritime defence, command operations, and humanitarian missions.

Kadin Targets Rp100 Trillion Investment for North Sumatra, Outlining Key Sectors

The North Sumatra Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) is aiming to attract Rp100 trillion in investment to the province to bolster regional economic growth. The organisation is promoting partnership-based investment models to ensure local entrepreneurs actively participate in large-scale projects, including a proposed health-focused Special Economic Zone.

2027 State Budget: Indonesia Targets Spending of Rp4,106tn

The Indonesian government and the House of Representatives' Budget Agency have agreed on a 2027 state spending target of Rp4,106 trillion. This budget includes a central government allocation of Rp3,371 trillion, with a focus on maintaining growth momentum and fiscal prudence amidst global economic uncertainty.

Former Social Affairs Minister Under Megawati and SBY Eras Passes Away

Bachtiar Chamsyah, the former Minister of Social Affairs who served during the presidencies of Megawati Soekarnoputri and Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, has passed away. He died at Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital in Jakarta, leaving behind a significant legacy in Indonesian political history.