Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 24 September 2026

Showing 651-700 of 1,383 articles

From Paper Tickets to Facial Scanning: 81 Years of KAI Transforming Passenger Travel

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) reflects on its 81-year digital transformation, moving from physical station counters to advanced facial recognition boarding. The company's 'Access by KAI' platform has seen significant growth, accounting for over 76 per cent of all long-distance and local train transactions in the first half of 2026.

Danantara Prepares New Textile SOE, Partnering with Existing Companies

Danantara is planning to establish a new State-Owned Enterprise (SOE) within the textile sector by collaborating with currently operating companies. This initiative aims to strengthen the domestic industrial ecosystem, from raw material supply chains to production and marketing.

BKKBN strengthens stunting risk data use for targeted prevention

The Indonesian National Population and Family Planning Board (BKKBN) is enhancing the use of KRS data to facilitate targeted stunting prevention interventions across central and regional governments. Deputy Minister Ratu Ayu Isyana Bagoes Oka emphasised the importance of cross-sector collaboration and sensitive interventions to meet the government's target of reducing stunting prevalence to 14.2 per cent by 2029.

Agriculture Minister Meets Farmers to Address Irrigation and Equipment Shortages

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman met with protesting farmers from Indramayu to discuss critical issues regarding water scarcity and agricultural machinery. The Minister pledged to expedite irrigation infrastructure projects and promised additional hand tractors to support local farming groups.

Platinum Hotel Yogyakarta Saves 30 Per Cent in Costs Using PGN CNG

Platinum Hotel Adisucipto Yogyakarta has successfully reduced its operational costs by 20-30 per cent by transitioning from LPG to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) supplied by PGN subsidiary, PT Gagas Energi Indonesia. The switch has provided both financial savings and operational benefits, including more stable flames for cooking and cleaner combustion.

KPK Seizes Envelopes Containing Cash During Search of Mojokerto Land Office

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized several envelopes containing cash during a raid on the Mojokerto City National Land Agency (BPN) office. The search is part of an ongoing investigation into alleged bribery involving the Director General of the Ministry of ATR/BPN.

From Batavia Trams to Whoosh: The Long Journey of Indonesia's Electric Rail Over a Century

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) is expanding its electrification network to increase commuter capacity in the Greater Jakarta area. The expansion includes extending the Bekasi KRL line to Cikampek and the Bogor line to Cigombong, aiming to serve two million passengers daily by 2028.

Regional Head Responds to Findings of Luxury Prison in Cibinong: Those are Official Residences

The Regional Head of the Directorate General of Corrections for West Java has defended the presence of apartment-like structures in Cibinong Prison, claiming they are official residences for officials. Meanwhile, the Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Corrections has invited the media to investigate the allegations of luxury facilities.

West Jakarta Deputy Mayor: Drug Prevention Efforts Must Become a Social Principle

The Deputy Mayor of West Jakarta, Ali Murtadho, has called for a comprehensive and sustainable approach to drug prevention, involving individuals, families, and community organisations. He emphasised the need for local government agencies to allocate budgets to support anti-drug programmes and urged citizens to act as 'social intelligence' to monitor drug activities.

DPR Commission II: Obstruction of Ombudsman by Cibinong Prison Officers Raises Suspicion

The Deputy Chairman of Commission II of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has expressed concern over the obstruction of an Ombudsman inspection at Cibinong Prison. He has called upon the Ministry of Immigration and Correctional Services to provide transparency and clarify the incident to prevent public speculation.

Russia and Ukraine Urged to Assist Repatriation of Foreign Nationals Recruited in Conflict

Colombia's Permanent Representative to the UN has called on Russia and Ukraine to facilitate the return of foreign nationals recruited to fight in the ongoing conflict. The move aims to prevent the escalation of the war into a broader international crisis.

Iranian President Delivers Repeated Rebukes to Trump at UN

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has criticised US President Donald Trump during his speech at the United Nations General Assembly, labelling Iran a victim of global terrorism. Pezeshkian accused the US and Israel of violating international law through targeted attacks on Iranian infrastructure and civilians.

Ombudsman Exposes Security Flaws at Cibinong Prison, Loose Fencing Risks Inmate Escapes

The Indonesian Ombudsman has identified significant security vulnerabilities at the Class IIA Cibinong Prison in West Java following a surprise inspection. The findings reveal loose perimeter fencing and unauthorised access points that could allow inmates to enter or exit the facility undetected.

Perumnas Develops Low-Income Housing Integrated with Public Transport

State-owned housing developer Perum Perumnas is implementing a Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) approach to provide affordable housing for low-income communities. By integrating residential areas with public transport networks, the company aims to reduce daily commuting costs and time for urban residents.

Agrinas Palma partners with University of Riau to strengthen research and sustainable plantation management

PT Agrinas Palma Nusantara (Persero) has entered into a memorandum of understanding with the University of Riau to enhance agro-industry research and sustainable land management. The collaboration aims to utilise academic and multidisciplinary approaches to address land use issues and improve plantation productivity in Riau Province.

Prevention Task Force Formed Following Rise in Sexual Violence in East Lombok

The Islamic Boarding School Cooperation Forum (FKSPP) has established a dedicated task force to mitigate sexual violence within pesantren environments in East Lombok. The initiative includes intensive training, facility inspections, and the launch of a reporting hotline to ensure student safety and regulatory compliance.

National Nutrition Agency studies Japanese best practices to strengthen Free Nutritious Meal Programme

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is looking to Japan's school meal programmes to refine the implementation of Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) initiative. The agency aims to adopt successful models regarding food distribution, governance, and the involvement of various stakeholders in the ecosystem.

British Man on Theft Trial Defecates in Courtroom

A British national facing theft charges in Bali caused a disturbance during his trial by defecating in the courtroom. The defendant, accused of stealing from a French tourist, has also been accused of being uncooperative and arrogant during the legal proceedings.

Government states Aceh maintains annual rice surplus of 300,000 tonnes

The Aceh provincial government has reported a significant annual rice surplus of 300,000 tonnes, positioning the region as a key national food supplier. Despite recent production dips caused by hydrometeorological disasters, recovery efforts are underway to restore impacted farmlands.

Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education: Cadet Corps serves as a platform for strengthening student character and national defence

The Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Atip Latipulhayat, has highlighted the role of the Indonesian Republic Cadet Corps (KKRI) in fostering discipline and national consciousness among secondary school students. The programme is designed as an optional extracurricular activity to build leadership and character rather than military training.

PDIP to Propose 6% Parliamentary Threshold, Citing Strategic Reasons

The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) has announced its intention to propose a 6% parliamentary threshold for future elections. The party believes this figure is the most ideal for balancing political party simplification with Indonesia's diverse social landscape.

Zuckerberg Pivots After Smart Glasses Face Intense Criticism

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has unveiled a new range of AI-driven hardware, including the 'Meta Charm' handheld device and camera-free smart glasses, following privacy backlash. The company aims to expand its AI ecosystem through the Muse assistant while addressing concerns regarding unauthorised recording.

Ministry of Trade supports metrology graduates in developing domestic measuring instruments

The Indonesian Ministry of Trade is encouraging graduates in metrology and instrumentation to innovate and produce domestic measuring tools. This initiative aims to ensure accurate measurement standards in trade activities while adapting to advancements in digital technology and artificial intelligence.

Kadin: Bank Indonesia's decision to maintain BI-Rate supports business sector

The Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) has expressed support for Bank Indonesia's decision to maintain the BI-Rate, stating it provides necessary stability for business growth. The central bank aims to support domestic economic progress amidst a global 'higher for longer' interest rate environment.

Mojokerto Land Office Raided by KPK; Head is Wife of Suspect in HGB Bribery Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has raided the Mojoklaro National Land Agency (BPN) office following the bribery investigation involving Lampri, the Director General of ATR/BPN. The office is currently headed by Lampri's wife, and investigators have seized documents, electronic devices, and envelopes containing suspected bribe money.

Mataram Tourism Office Launches MSME Bazaar at Teras Udayana to Welcome MotoGP 2026

The Mataram City Tourism Office has organised an MSME bazaar and various side events at Teras Udayana to coincide with the 2026 MotoGP event. The initiative aims to promote local culinary and craft businesses to the influx of international and domestic tourists visiting the Mandalika Circuit.

Minister of Transmigration Announces 2027 Budget Ceiling of Rp947.27 Billion

The Minister of Transmigration, Muhammad Iftitah Sulaiman Suryanagara, has revealed that the ministry's budget for 2027 is set at Rp947.27 billion. The funds will be prioritised towards developing transmigration areas to serve as new hubs for economic growth and investment.

Labour Protests Disperse, Police Confirm Normal Traffic Flow on Sudirman Road

Traffic on Jakarta's Sudirman and Thamrin roads has returned to normal following the dispersal of labour union demonstrations. The protests, organised by the Great Coalition for the Struggle of Indonesian Labour (KBPBI), were held to demand government attention regarding the Labour Bill.

Presidential Order: Bahlil Ensures Subsidised Fuel Prices Will Not Rise Until Year-End

The Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Bahlil Lahadalia, has confirmed that subsidised fuel prices will remain stable following a direct order from President Prabowo Subianto. The government is also focusing on maintaining fuel reserves at a minimum of 18 to 21 days to ensure national energy security.

These 6 Plants are the Most Resilient Against Increasingly Extreme Global Weather

A study highlights the necessity of selecting urban plant species based on future climate projections rather than current conditions. Research in Indonesia, including studies by BRIN, is now mapping suitable areas for specific crops to ensure long-term agricultural and urban resilience.

Sharia-Based Circular Economy Developed in Bogor Waqf Forest

A collaborative community initiative in Bogor is integrating environmental conservation with Sharia-based circular economy principles. The programme focuses on waste management education and green entrepreneurship to empower local residents through productive waqf assets.

Cibinong Prison Turns into Hotel, Offering Room Types from Superior to Suite

The Indonesian Ombudsman has uncovered a luxury cluster within the Class IIA Cibinong Prison, featuring villa-style accommodations ranging from superior to suite rooms. These high-end facilities, which include luxury cars and premium amenities, are allegedly occupied by inmates in exchange for payments.

Former Ombudsman Chair Hery Susanto Faces 5.5-Year Prison Sentence and Rp 4.19 Billion Fine

Former Ombudsman Chairman Hery Susanto has been sentenced to five years and six months in prison following allegations of bribery and gratification. The prosecution also seeks a fine of Rp 4.19 billion related to the manipulation of nickel mining audit reports.

Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education prepares regulations for Corps Cadet extracurricular programme this year

The Indonesian Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is implementing new regulations to support the Corps Cadet Republic of Indonesia (KKRI) as an optional extracurricular activity for secondary school students. This initiative, a collaboration with the Ministry of Defence, aims to foster character building and patriotism among the younger generation.

Central Jakarta Mayor Urges Officials to Open Consultation Channels with Residents

The Mayor of Central Jakarta, Arifin, has called on local government officials to maintain active consultation and coordination with community organisations. The initiative aims to enhance public services and foster synergy to address local issues such as drainage and infrastructure through collaborative problem-solving.

Rupiah Closes with 0.51% Correction as US Dollar Rises to Rp17,885

The Indonesian Rupiah faced significant pressure during Thursday's trading, weakening by 0.51% to close at Rp17,885 per US Dollar. The decline was driven by global uncertainties regarding US monetary policy and rising US Treasury yields, alongside increased domestic demand for foreign exchange.

KPK Conducts Search at East Java BPN Regional Office

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has raided the East Java Regional Office of the National Land Agency (BPN) as part of an ongoing bribery investigation. The search is linked to the case involving the Director General of the Ministry of ATR/BPN, who is currently a suspect.

Seized coal from Samin Tan sold for Rp179 billion

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has successfully auctioned 436,283 tonnes of coal seized from suspect Samin Tan for Rp179 billion. The auction, conducted via the Banjarmasin State Assets and Auction Office, relates to alleged corruption in the mining management of PT Asmin Koalindo Tuhup.

Will Cooperative Deposits be Guaranteed by LPS? Airlangga Provides Explanation

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto is pushing for a mechanism to guarantee cooperative deposits, similar to bank deposits protected by the LPS. The government is currently working on implementing regulations to ensure public confidence in cooperative savings.

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Emphasises Avoiding Centralisation in Data Management

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Bima Arya has called for a national data management approach that avoids centralisation by allowing regional authorities to maintain their roles. This principle aligns with the proposed One Data Indonesia Bill, which aims to orchestrate national data through interoperability while respecting regional jurisdictions.

Indonesia uses foreign worker data to guide skills policy

The Indonesian government is utilising foreign worker data to identify specific skill gaps and high-demand roles within the industrial sector. This initiative aims to align educational competency programmes with actual labour market needs and ensure that the employment of foreign nationals facilitates effective technology and skill transfers to the local workforce.

PDIP's Said Abdullah Says Proposal to Hold Legislative Elections Before Presidential Election Requires Careful Study

PDIP official Said Abdullah has stated that the proposal to separate legislative and presidential elections deserves thorough consideration. He argues that holding legislative elections first would allow voters to better recognise legislative candidates, who are currently overshadowed by the presidential race.

Bank Muamalat Strengthens Sharia Economic Ecosystem through Kolabora Kebaikan Building

Bank Muamalat is reinforcing the Sharia economic and financial ecosystem by supporting the 'Zakat & Waqf for Inclusive Impact & Networking' event. The bank's involvement includes the financing of the Kolabora Kebaikan Building, which aims to serve as a hub for social empowerment and community collaboration.

Malaysia's domestic tourism visitors and expenditure rise in Q2 2026

Malaysia's domestic tourism sector saw a significant boost in the second quarter of 2026, with visitor numbers rising by 4.3 per cent year-on-year. Furthermore, domestic tourism expenditure grew by 12.3 per cent, reaching 32.8 billion ringgit, indicating increased consumer spending within the industry.

KAI Commuter Staff Assist Passenger in Giving Birth at Rawabuntu Station

KAI Commuter staff and medical personnel successfully assisted a heavily pregnant passenger during childbirth on a Commuter Line train. The train was temporarily halted at Rawabuntu Station to facilitate emergency medical assistance and subsequent transport to a local health centre.

74 Million Indonesians Lack Bank Accounts; Airlangga Prepares Rp 3.8 Trillion for Mass Account Opening

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Airlangga Hartarto, has proposed a Rp 3.8 trillion initiative to provide bank accounts to approximately 74 million citizens under the age of 17. The programme aims to boost financial inclusion and digital transactions across the country through collaboration with state-owned banks.

Kadin: Revision of Kadin Law to Empower MSMEs to Scale Up

The Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) believes that revising the Kadin Law will help micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) grow and compete globally. The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has taken the initiative to draft the 2026 Kadin Bill to ensure the organisation remains relevant in the modern digital economy.

Competition in Closed-System Category Drives Latest Innovations in Pod Industry

PT Delta Sukses Teknologi has announced significant updates to its DJOY BEAM Series to meet evolving consumer preferences in the closed-system electronic cigarette market. The company is introducing new device colours and flavour variants, including Lychee, as part of its ongoing innovation strategy.

RI Govt still targets electric motorcycle incentive this year

The Indonesian government remains committed to implementing electric motorcycle incentives this year, pending the issuance of new Finance Ministry regulations. The proposed scheme involves a Rp3 trillion budget to subsidise the purchase of one million domestically produced electric motorcycles.

Forest Fire on Mount Merapi Slopes Reaches Over 30 Hectares

A significant forest fire is currently ravaging the Mount Merapi National Park in Central Java, affecting more than 30 hectares of land. High winds have caused previously extinguished hotspots to reignite, prompting a large-scale joint firefighting operation involving local authorities and residents.