Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 24 September 2026

Showing 451-500 of 1,383 articles

Trump Urges Venezuela to Hold Elections During Meeting with Delcy Rodriguez

During a meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, US President Donald Trump emphasised the necessity of holding elections in Venezuela to achieve full democracy. The discussion also touched upon the importance of maintaining stable oil supplies and fostering positive bilateral relations.

Indo-Dutch Residents Lived Like Royalty in Batavia, While Natives Served as Servants

An exploration of the social hierarchy in Batavia approximately 100 years ago, highlighting the disparity between Indo-Dutch residents and the indigenous population. The article details the living conditions, social stratification, and the eventual departure of the Dutch community following the West Papua dispute in the 1950s.

Observer: BLBI case serves as a lesson in building a strong asset recovery regime

Legal and development expert Hardjuno Wiwoho emphasises that the Bank Indonesia Liquidity Assistance (BLBI) case should inform the creation of a robust asset recovery framework. He argues that the proposed Asset Forfeiture Bill must balance effective state recovery with transparency, due process, and legal certainty.

Norway allocates £145 million in humanitarian aid for Palestine

Norway has announced the allocation of US$13 million (approximately Rp234 billion) in humanitarian aid to support Palestine through UN and World Bank channels. The funding aims to bolster the Palestinian public sector amidst ongoing efforts to implement a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip.

Video: Ministry of Health Transformation Strengthens Healthcare Services for Indonesian Citizens

The Indonesian Ministry of Health is implementing a comprehensive transformation programme to enhance the quality and accessibility of healthcare services. Key initiatives include reducing patient waiting times and completing the construction of 66 fully-equipped hospitals in underdeveloped regions.

Bank Mandiri Taspen Partners with KIW to Pursue Strategic Partnership Opportunities

PT Bank Mandiri Taspen and PT Kawasan Industri Wijayakusuma (Persero) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a long-term corporate collaboration. The partnership aims to explore various business potentials and create concrete collaborative programmes to benefit both organisations.

Ministry of Housing: Housing Program Credit reaches Rp25.8 trillion

The Ministry of Housing and Residential Areas has announced that the distribution of Housing Program Credit (KPP) has reached Rp25.8 trillion, benefiting over 110,000 debtors. The government plans to increase the program's ceiling from Rp36 trillion to Rp50 trillion by 2026 to expand access to housing finance.

Bahlil Invites Investors to Build Data Centres in Indonesia, Guarantees Abundant Energy

The Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Bahlil Lahadalia, has called on global investors to establish data centres in Indonesia, highlighting the nation's vast renewable energy potential. He emphasised that Indonesia's abundant supply of green energy, including significant hydroelectric projects, presents a strategic opportunity amidst global energy pressures.

Police Reveal Cultural Motives Behind Illegal Baby Adoption in Bali

Police in Bangli have uncovered an illegal human trafficking ring involving the sale of infants driven by cultural pressures to have male heirs. Three suspects have been detained following the discovery of a network that used social media to facilitate the sale of babies for millions of rupiah.

BI: Over 32,000 Domestic Credit Cards Issued in First Month

Bank Indonesia has reported that 32,457 domestic Indonesian Credit Cards (KKI) have been issued since their launch on 17 August 2026. The central bank is currently rolling out the digital-first payment instrument in phases, with BCA currently holding the largest share of active users.

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure: 2,500 Villages Still Lack Internet Connectivity

The Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono, has revealed that approximately 2,500 villages in Indonesia remain without internet access. He emphasised the urgent need for basic infrastructure, including electricity and telecommunications, to drive economic growth and digital integration across the archipelago.

Regional Head Responds to Allegations of 'Luxury Cluster' Access at Cibinong Prison

The Head of the West Java Directorate General of Corrections is investigating allegations of illegal levies and the rental of houses to inmates at Cibinong Class IIA Prison. Authorities are also addressing claims regarding unmonitored access points through bamboo groves connecting the prison area to local villages.

2027 Public Works Budget Set at Rp 114.59 Trillion, Minister Dody Responds

The Ministry of Public Works has been allocated an annual budget of Rp 114.59 trillion for 2027, significantly lower than the Rp 219.81 trillion originally requested. Minister Dody Hanggodo stated that the ministry will have to adjust its infrastructure targets and programme outputs to align with the available funding.

Basarnas Reveals Salvage of Virgo Ship Could Take at Least Three Months

The National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) has announced that the salvage operation for the Virgo Transport 8 shipwreck will take a minimum of three months. The agency is coordinating with the ship's owners to expedite the process due to the belief that victims remain trapped within the wreckage.

Arjuno-Welirang Mountain climbing routes reopened following wildfires

The Raden Soerjo Forest Park management has officially reopened the climbing routes for Mount Arjuno-Welirang in East Java following recent wildfires. A daily quota of 550 climbers has been established, with priority given to those affected by the previous closure.

PLN West Sumatra boosts melon farming productivity through electrification

PT PLN UID West Sumatra has implemented an electrification programme to support the MEGO.ID melon farming group in Padang. The initiative aims to enhance agricultural efficiency and productivity by utilising electricity for precision irrigation and nutrient management.

Jokowi Openly Reveals Gibran's Educational History: Primary and Junior High in Solo, High School in Singapore

Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo has addressed the Constitutional Court challenge regarding the educational credentials of Vice President-elect Gibran Rakabuming Raka. Jokowi clarified that Gibran completed his early education in Solo before attending secondary school in Singapore and further studies in Australia.

House of Representatives insists no special treatment for prisoners in correctional facilities

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Saan Mustopa, has called for an end to discriminatory treatment and luxury facilities for inmates following reports of apartment-standard housing in a prison. The House is urging relevant commissions to investigate the findings by the Ombudsman regarding the Cibinong Class IIA Correctional Facility.

As Factories Increase, Pertagas Prepares to Boost Sei Mangkei Gas Pipeline Capacity

PT Pertamina Gas (Pertagas) is preparing strategies to expand its gas transmission pipeline capacity to accommodate the projected influx of 200 factories into the Sei Mangkei Special Economic Zone (SEZ) by 2031. The expansion will involve technical engineering, including compressor and pipeline upgrades, to support industrial growth and new gas supply projects in North Sumatra.

Video: Abdi Waluyo Hospital Wins 'The Frontier of Medical Technology' Award

Abdi Waluyo Hospital has been recognised with the 'The Frontier of Medical Technology in Indonesia' award at the CNBC Indonesia Awards 2026: Best Healthcare. The event, themed 'Powering Future Growth', aims to bring together regulators and industry stakeholders to discuss innovation within Indonesia's healthcare ecosystem.

Graduation of 1,005 Graduates: Universitas PTIQ Jakarta Emphasises Community Service

Universitas PTIQ Jakarta held a graduation ceremony for 1,005 undergraduate, master's, and doctoral students, urging them to apply their knowledge for the benefit of society. The event featured remarks from the Minister of Religious Affairs and the Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, highlighting the importance of academic contribution to national civilisation.

Riau Islands Provincial Government Strengthens Inter-Island Connectivity on 24th Anniversary

The Riau Islands Provincial Government is prioritising inter-island connectivity and equitable development to drive economic growth across the archipelago. Governor Ansar Ahmad emphasised that the province's maritime landscape should serve as a bridge for economic activity rather than a barrier.

Minister of Housing and Settlement Areas monitors acceleration of housing programmes in four provinces

The Minister of Housing and Settlement Areas, Maruarar Sirait, is overseeing the acceleration of housing initiatives across Gorontalo, East Kalimantan, West Sumatra, and Southeast Sulawesi. The programme includes an increased allocation for the 'Bedah Rumah' (Home Renovation) scheme for 2026 and aims to strengthen coordination between central and local governments.

Baznas Banjarmasin distributes dozens of capital and business facility grants

The National Zakat Agency (Baznas) in Banjarmasin has distributed capital and business equipment grants to 25 underprivileged individuals as part of its 2024 welfare programme. The initiative, funded by public zakat, infaq, and alms, aims to empower low-income families to establish sustainable livelihoods.

International School Student in South Tangerang Allegedly Abused by Teacher

A student at an international school in South Tangerang has allegedly been sexually abused by a teacher between 2023 and 2026. The case has been officially reported to the South Tangerang Police, with legal counsel presenting digital evidence and psychological reports.

Indonesia to Promote Trade Cooperation with Tangible Benefits: Vice Minister

Vice Minister of Trade Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri held several bilateral meetings during the 58th ASEAN Economic Ministers Meeting to bolster Indonesia's international trade relations. Key discussions focused on accelerating Indonesia's OECD accession, implementing the Indonesia-Eurasian Economic Union Free Trade Agreement, and exploring new trade opportunities with Russia and the United Kingdom.

The Financial Risks of Not Having Insurance

Marihot H. Tambunan, Acting President Director of Inhealth, warns that lacking insurance can lead to the depletion of personal assets due to unpredictable healthcare costs. He emphasises the importance of securing insurance while healthy to ensure long-term financial stability and peace of mind.

National Nutrition Agency ensures optimal care for MBG recipients in Batang affected by illness

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has suspended the Batang Bawang Bawang nutrition service unit following an incident where 219 beneficiaries fell ill after consuming meals. The agency has also dismissed the head of the unit as investigations into food safety and SOP violations continue.

BI Governor: Approximately One Quarter of Indonesian Population Now Uses QRIS

Bank Indonesia Governor Destry Damayanti reports that QRIS users have reached 67 million, representing roughly a quarter of the Indonesian population. While digital payments are rising, the central bank emphasises that cash remains essential for remote regions and instructs merchants to continue accepting it.

Prabowo Hosts Italian Navy Delegation at Presidential Palace

President Prabowo Subianto received a high-level delegation from the Italian Navy at the Presidential Palace following the official handover of the aircraft carrier KRI Sriwijaya-100. The vessel, formerly the Giuseppe Garibaldi, is intended to bolster Indonesia's maritime defence and support aerial firefighting operations.

Bad Debts: Causes, Impacts, and How to Overcome Them

This article explores the underlying causes of non-performing loans, ranging from internal banking failures to individual financial hardships. It provides practical advice for debtors on managing arrears, communicating with creditors, and exploring credit restructuring options to avoid long-term financial damage.

MP: Formation of New Financial Sector Omnibus Law Not Yet Necessary

A member of the Indonesian Parliament's Commission XI has stated that there is no need for a new Financial Sector Omnibus Law, as the existing P2SK Law already provides comprehensive regulation. He warned that frequent regulatory changes could create market uncertainty and impose unnecessary costs on financial institutions during a period of global economic pressure.

Minister Amran Responds to 1,000 Indramayu Farmers Regarding Irrigation Issues

Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman has pledged to resolve irrigation shortages facing farmers in Indramayu, even suggesting the reallocation of Ministry budgets if necessary. The Minister met with approximately 1,000 farmers to address critical infrastructure gaps and water scarcity affecting crop yields.

Kadin Riau develops 'Kadin Institute' to support business sector needs

The Riau Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) has launched the Kadin Institute to bridge the skills gap between academia and industry through 'link and match' programmes. The initiative aims to enhance human resource quality and optimise local commodity potential, such as porang, to drive regional economic growth.

17 Foreign Nationals Deported for Disturbing Order in Badung, Most from Australia

The Ngurah Rai Immigration Office has deported 17 foreign nationals between 8 and 18 September 2026 due to various immigration violations. The group includes individuals involved in public disturbances, visa misuse, and overstaying their permits.

Government ensures halal certification benefits producers and consumers

The Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Culture has reaffirmed that mandatory halal certification will enhance consumer confidence and strengthen the trade sector. The government is focusing on cross-agency collaboration to ensure smooth implementation of the regulation by October 2026.

Dumai-Sei Mangkei Gas Pipeline Route Proposed for Change, Here is Why

PT Pertamina Gas (Pertagas) plans to reroute the connection point of the Dumai-Sei Mangkei gas pipeline project to Belawan to optimise gas flow volumes. The company is also considering renaming the project to the 'Sutri' (North Sumatra-Riau) pipeline to better reflect its geographical scope.

Japan Urges Freedom of Navigation in Middle East During UN Meeting

Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi has called for the preservation of free navigation through vital Middle Eastern waterways during a UN meeting in New York. The discussions addressed global energy market concerns regarding the Strait of Hormuz and the Strait of Bab el-Mandeb, alongside strengthening bilateral security ties with Fiji and the Maldives.

Indonesia reports 74 million aged 17 and above without bank account

The Indonesian government is considering a Rp3.8 trillion initiative to provide subsidies for opening bank accounts to help 74 million citizens aged 17 and above achieve financial inclusion. The programme aims to leverage digital identity and facial recognition technology to simplify the banking process and improve national financial literacy.

Prabowo Holds Meeting on Forest Fires; Forestry Minister: South and Central Kalimantan are Main Focus

President Prabowo Subianto convened a limited meeting at the Palace to discuss mitigation strategies for forest and land fires, specifically focusing on peatland management. The Minister of Forestry identified Central and South Kalimantan as the primary areas of concern due to rising hotspot numbers.

Nadiem's Sentence Reduced to 9 Years: The Attorney General's Office Responds

The Attorney General's Office (Kejagung) is currently reviewing the Jakarta High Court's decision to reduce the prison sentence of former Minister Nadiem Makarim to nine years. The case involves corruption related to the procurement of Chromebook laptops and Chrome Device Management between 2020 and 2022.

Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education Urges Teachers to Outpace Students in Digital Literacy

The Indonesian Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has called on educators to enhance their digital skills to better guide students in the age of artificial intelligence. The Ministry emphasises that teachers must stay ahead of students to identify digital risks and effectively supervise the use of AI in learning.

Turkey and Iraq Agree to Restore Iraqi Authority Over Sinjar Region

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi have reached an agreement to restore full Iraqi state authority in Sinjar. The deal also includes the gradual handover of the Bashiqa-Zilkan military complex from Turkey to the Iraqi government.

MAKI Reveals Ferdy Sambo and Harvey Moeis Occupy Luxury Cells Resembling Apartments in Cibinong Prison

The Indonesian Anti-Corruption Society (MAKI) has exposed the existence of luxury prison cells at Cibinong Prison, which feature amenities comparable to high-end apartments. High-profile convicts, including Ferdy Sambo and Harvey Moeis, are reportedly utilising these specialised facilities under the guise of assimilation and education programmes.

Luxury Facilities Discovered in Cibinong Prison Following Ombudsman Inspection

An inspection by the Indonesian Ombudsman has uncovered luxury-style living quarters within the Class II A Cibinong Prison in Bogor. These high-end units feature various room types and are equipped with amenities such as televisions, refrigerators, and alcoholic beverages.

Yusril: No Clear Regulations if Constitutional Court Disqualifies Gibran

The Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Correctional Affairs, Yusril Ihza Mahendra, has noted a lack of detailed legal procedures regarding the consequences if the Constitutional Court disqualifies Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka. The legal debate centres on whether such a ruling would trigger automatic removal or necessitate an impeachment process.

Rupiah weakens alongside strong US PMI data

The Indonesian rupiah depreciated against the US dollar following robust US Flash PMI data, which indicates strong American business activity. Despite the pressure from a strengthening US dollar, Bank Indonesia's decision to maintain interest rates and its strong foreign exchange reserves provide some level of external stability.

Revealed: Details of Meeting Between House of Representatives, Finance Minister, BI, OJK, and Danantara

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, held a high-level meeting with key economic officials to synchronise national fiscal and monetary policies. The discussion focused on ensuring that various institutions, including Bank Indonesia and OJK, align their strategic directions to support national economic stability.

Ombudsman Member Uncovers 'Luxury Cluster' within Cibinong Prison

An investigation by the Indonesian Ombudsman has revealed the existence of high-end residential facilities, including villas and a golf simulator, within the Cibinong Class IIA Prison complex. While officials claim these are official residences for staff, the Ombudsman raised concerns regarding security loopholes and the presence of luxury amenities for inmates.

IDX Composite weakens to 6,298 following Asian markets, driven by global inflation projections

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) closed lower on Thursday, following a downward trend in Asian markets due to global inflation and interest rate concerns. Market volatility was further exacerbated by rising US bond yields and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.