Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 24 September 2026

Showing 151-200 of 1,383 articles

Reviewing the Indonesia-Papua New Guinea Border, BNPP: There is a Need for Alternative Fuel Distribution Routes

The National Border Management Agency of Indonesia (BNPP) has inspected the Butmambin Border Post to assess connectivity between Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. The initiative aims to boost local economic growth and address the PNG government's need for alternative fuel distribution routes to mining areas.

Prudential Syariah Records Rp4.2 Trillion Contribution, Claims and Benefits Reach Rp2.2 Trillion

PT Prudential Sharia Life Assurance has reported a 9 per cent year-on-year growth in gross contributions, reaching Rp4.2 trillion in 2025. The company also paid out Rp2.2 trillion in claims and benefits, driven by enhanced integrated healthcare services.

Carving Global Market Share: How Indonesian Furniture Aims to Turn a $473M Surplus into Green Growth

Indonesia's furniture sector is pursuing a dual strategy of expanding into environmentally conscious Western markets and defending its domestic market share against rising imports. Following a $473 million trade surplus in 2025, the industry is focusing on sustainable production and compliance with European deforestation regulations to ensure long-term growth.

Halal Indo 2026 Opens as Industry Ministry Pushes Global Competitiveness of Halal Products

The Indonesian Industry Ministry has officially launched the Halal Indonesia International Industry Expo (Halal Indo) 2026 to bolster the nation's global market share. Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita highlighted the immense potential of the global Islamic economy, which is projected to reach US$3.6 trillion by 2029.

Three West Jakarta Sub-districts Named Among Top 10 for Benyamin S Award 2026

Three sub-districts in West Jakarta—Tamansari, Srengseng, and Sukabumi Utara—have been shortlisted for the top ten in the 2026 Benyamin S Award. The competition evaluates urban areas based on cleanliness, health, comfort, and prosperity.

Finance Minister: President Requests Grand Design for 2027 Education Programme

President Prabowo Subianto has directed the government to develop a comprehensive grand design for the 2027 education programme, following plans for free schooling. The initiative aims to optimise the utilisation of the Rp824 trillion annual education budget to ensure maximum benefits across all educational levels.

Waste Emergency: Tokyo Considers Fines of Up to Rp 54 Million

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government is considering new local regulations to impose heavy fines on littering to combat rising waste volumes in tourist areas. This initiative follows a significant surge in international visitors and aims to maintain urban cleanliness through both penalties and increased waste bin availability.

Southern Side of Lempuyangan Station Yogyakarta Begins Redevelopment

PT KAI Daop 6 Yogyakarta has commenced the redevelopment of the southern area of Lempuyangan Station to expand station grounds and improve passenger accessibility. The project includes the construction of a new access road to separate passenger traffic from public roads, aimed at supporting rising passenger volumes and local economic growth.

Ibas Urges Cross-Sector Collaboration to Strengthen National Maritime Sector

Deputy Speaker of the MPR RI, Edhio Baskoro Yudhoyono, has called for enhanced collaboration between government, industry, and academia to transform Indonesia's maritime potential into a driver of economic growth. He emphasised the importance of the blue economy, technological innovation, and downstreaming marine products to improve the welfare of coastal communities.

Petrokimia Gresik Brings Industrial and Sustainable Agriculture Transformation to New York

The Indonesian agro-industry leader, PT Petrokimia Gresik, participated in high-level global forums in New York to showcase its sustainable innovations. The company highlighted its 'GladiAgro' soil revival solution and emphasised the necessity of developing global talent to support the transition to a green economy.

World Capital Tower Hosts Calligraphy Exhibition, Blending Art with Charity

The World Capital Tower in Jakarta's Mega Kuningan district recently hosted a calligraphy exhibition aimed at combining art appreciation with social responsibility. Proceeds from the charity sale are dedicated to supporting earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT).

Rice production in Karawang reaches 955,951 tonnes

Karawang Regency has recorded a rice production of 955,951 tonnes of harvested dry grain as of August 2026, representing 67.8 per cent of its annual target. The local government is implementing measures such as free seed distribution and irrigation improvements to ensure the 1.41 million tonne target is met despite drought risks.

Schaeffler Introduces Two-Wheeler Aftermarket Portfolio in Indonesia via Automechanika Jakarta

PT Schaeffler Solutions Indonesia has unveiled its specialised two-wheeler aftermarket product line at Automechanika Jakarta. The expansion aims to leverage Indonesia's massive motorcycle market by providing Original Equipment (OE) quality components and technical training for distributors and workshops.

Minister of Forestry explains Peat Management Agency will be directly under the President

The Minister of Forestry, Raja Juli Antoni, has announced that the newly proposed National Peat and Mangrove Management Agency (BPGMN) will operate directly under President Prabowo Subianto. The agency aims to utilise scientists and professionals to prevent forest fires across six peat-based provinces in Indonesia.

Impact of Merapi Forest Fires Spreads to 60 Hectares

A massive forest fire in the Mount Merapi National Park has scorched approximately 60 hectares of land in Central Java. Authorities suspect the blaze may have been intentionally set to facilitate illegal sand mining operations in the area.

Gibran's Educational Credentials Challenged in Constitutional Court; Jokowi Details Schooling History

Former President Joko Widodo has responded to a lawsuit filed at the Constitutional Court regarding Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka's educational qualifications. The lawsuit alleges administrative irregularities and manipulation in the verification of Gibran's overseas schooling credentials.

Presidential Envoy Invites Influencers to Educate Public on Legal Awareness

The Presidential Special Envoy for Youth Development and Arts, Raffi Farid Ahmad, has called upon influencers and artists to utilise creative content to promote legal awareness and disaster preparedness. The initiative aims to leverage digital platforms to disseminate vital information and highlight the achievements of community civil defence members.

Two Muslim Nations Re-enter Conflict as Drones Bombard Key City

Pakistan has launched precision airstrikes and drone attacks against ten locations in Afghanistan, including the city of Kandahar. The escalation follows long-standing tensions regarding militant safe havens, with Islamabad accusing the Taliban regime of harbouring terrorists.

Eight Programmes Announced as West Java's Gift to Bandung City

The West Java Provincial Government has unveiled eight development programmes to mark the 216th anniversary of Bandung City. These initiatives encompass infrastructure improvements, educational expansion, and economic empowerment to benefit local residents.

House of Representatives visits Yogyakarta to examine cultural heritage management issues

Commission X of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) conducted a field visit to Yogyakarta's historical forts to investigate challenges in managing cultural heritage sites. The delegation identified significant hurdles regarding institutional authority, human resources, and fiscal limitations despite the region's special status.

'Shadowless Kick' Revealed in Hajj Corruption Case

During a corruption trial involving former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, a witness described a 'shadowless kick' method used to bypass Hajj queues. The testimony highlights findings from the Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) regarding pilgrims being able to depart without waiting for the standard years-long queue.

Two Yoni Stones at Pocangan Site in Jember Reported Missing, Suspected Stolen

Two ancient Yoni stones have disappeared from the Pocangan cultural heritage site in Jember, East Java, amid suspicions of theft. Local authorities are investigating reports of suspicious individuals seen measuring the artefacts shortly before their disappearance.

Ahead of October 2026 Mandatory Halal Regulations, This is the Ruling on Cigarettes According to Kiai Cholil

The Vice Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), KH Cholil Nafis, has called for a specific review of the halal status of various tobacco products ahead of the 2026 mandatory halal certification implementation. He noted that while the basic ruling on cigarettes in Indonesia is halal, certain conditions such as use by pregnant women or children render it haram.

Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah: Stop Treating Religion Merely as a Commodity

The Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak, has called for a shift in the Islamic economy from purely ideological motivations to a focus on value and service quality. He emphasised that religious practices and the Hajj and Umrah sectors must move beyond being treated as mere commodities to foster sustainable growth.

Raising KM Virgo from Seabed Will Take Three Months, Here Are the Stages

The Indonesian National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) estimates that the salvage operation for the sunken KM Virgo Transport 8 will take at least three months. The process involves complex technical stages, including draining fuel to prevent marine pollution, as authorities continue to search for victims trapped within the vessel.

SOE Regulator Urges Enhanced Protection for Journalists

The State-Owned Enterprise (SOE) Regulatory Agency (BP BUMN) has called for improved safety measures and protection for journalists following a recent maritime incident. The agency emphasised that journalists are vital to the transparency of SOE transformations and face significant risks during field reporting.

Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources denies rumours of Pertalite price hike on 26 September

The Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has debunked viral social media claims suggesting that the price of subsidized Pertalite fuel will increase to Rp13,500 per litre. Officials emphasised that the government intends to maintain current subsidy levels to protect the purchasing power of lower-income citizens.

Chinese Smartphones Drive Camera Innovation to New Heights

Chinese smartphone manufacturers are transforming the mobile landscape by shifting focus from megapixel counts to advanced sensor sizes and professional optical collaborations. Through strategic partnerships with legendary brands like Leica and Zeiss, these vendors are redefining the standards of mobile photography and challenging professional camera dominance.

Luxury Facilities Discovered in Cibinong Prison Following Ombudsman Inspection

An unexpected inspection by the Indonesian Ombudsman has revealed luxury facilities, including air conditioning and refrigerators, within official residences at the Cibinong Class IIA Prison. The investigation also uncovered alcoholic beverages and the presence of suspected inmates within the residential area.

Ministry of Health Claims Influenza A Cases Remain Manageable in Hospitals

The Indonesian Ministry of Health is actively monitoring a rise in Influenza A cases, particularly in East Java. Officials have assured the public that the situation remains under control, with hospitals prepared to provide necessary treatment.

Indonesian and French Defence Ministers Review Pegase Mission

Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and French Armed Forces Minister Catherine Vautrin inspected the Pegase Mission 2026 joint exercises at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base. The mission aims to strengthen interoperability and bilateral defence cooperation between the Indonesian Air Force and the French Air and Space Force.

Meta Unveils New VR Glasses and AI-Powered Devices

Meta has introduced a new range of hardware, including sleek VR glasses and camera-free smart glasses, as part of its strategy to advance AI integration. The launch includes the Ray-Ban Meta Audio and the Muse AI assistant, aiming to position wearable technology as a potential successor to the smartphone.

Public Works Ministry targets construction of 198.79 km of new roads by 2027

The Indonesian Ministry of Public Works has announced plans to construct 198.79 km of new roads by 2027, supported by a budget allocation of Rp37.30 trillion for the Highways sector. The initiative aims to enhance national connectivity by linking production centres directly to markets to boost productivity.

29 People Killed by Armed Criminal Groups in Highland Papua Throughout 2026

The Papua Regional Police have reported that 29 individuals, including 25 civilians and four security personnel, have lost their lives due to attacks by armed criminal groups (KKB) between January and September 2026. Authorities are now intensifying security patrols and collaborative humanitarian approaches to restore stability in the region.

Indonesia Calls for Global Solidarity to Realise the Right to Development

Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono has urged the international community to strengthen global solidarity to ensure the right to development for all nations. Speaking at the United Nations headquarters in New York, he emphasised that human welfare must remain at the centre of all developmental efforts.

Jakarta Provincial Government Encourages Communities to Host Activities in Libraries

The Jakarta Provincial Library and Archives Office (Dispusip) is actively encouraging literacy-focused communities to utilise library spaces for various events. This initiative aims to increase public engagement and library visits through community-driven programming and enhanced digital services.

Doctors highlight dangers of AI self-diagnosis and denialism

A general practitioner has warned against the growing trend of individuals using artificial intelligence and the internet to self-diagnose medical conditions. The expert emphasised that such practices often lead to unnecessary panic and a failure to seek professional medical confirmation.

Seeking Input for Regional-Owned Enterprise Bill, DPD RI Selects Bank BPD Bali as Role Model

The Regional Representative Council (DPD RI) held a focus group discussion at Bank BPD Bali to gather insights for the drafting of the Regional-Owned Enterprise (BUMD) Bill. The initiative aims to strengthen the legal framework for regional enterprises, promoting professional, accountable, and independent management to drive local economies.

Central Jakarta Police Applaud Orderly National Farmers' Day Demonstrations

The Central Jakarta Metro Police have commended protesters for maintaining peace and order during National Farmers' Day demonstrations across Jakarta. A large-scale security deployment ensured that public facilities remained undamaged and traffic returned to normal following the events.

Journalists' families describe SOE compensation as a symbol of empathy and solidarity

Families of journalists missing in the Sunda Strait have expressed their gratitude for the financial assistance provided by Indonesian State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs). The compensation, organised by the SOE Ministry, is seen as a vital gesture of support for those awaiting news regarding the crew of the KM Arupadorkan I.

MAKI Exposes List of Inmates Occupying Luxury Cells Resembling Apartments at Cibinong Prison: Includes Ferdy Sambo, Harvey Moeis, and Indra Kenz

The Indonesian Anti-Corruption Society (MAKI) has released a list of high-profile inmates allegedly residing in luxury prison cells at the Cibinong Correctional Facility. The facilities, described as having apartment-like standards, reportedly house individuals convicted of corruption, money laundering, and general criminal offences.

Permanent Housing Construction in North Aceh Accelerated, Land Acquisition Becomes Priority

The Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Task Force is accelerating the construction of 505 permanent housing units in North Aceh, with a total requirement of 4,827 units estimated at Rp 1.40 trillion. While housing contracts are progressing, land acquisition and bridge access remain significant hurdles to the recovery process.

Clarification on Ferdy Sambo Using Luxury Cell in Cibinong Prison, Says West Java Correctional Regional Head

The West Java Regional Office of the Directorate General of Corrections is investigating reports of luxury facilities at the Cibinong Class IIA Prison following an Ombudsman inspection. Officials have denied claims that high-profile inmate Ferdy Sambo is utilising these facilities, noting that the inspected area was a residential official residence.

PAN Open to Option of Legislative Elections Before Presidential Election, Cites Election Costs

The National Mandate Party (PAN) is considering a proposal to hold legislative elections before presidential elections, provided the design remains constitutional. While acknowledging the potential for legislative results to serve as 'political tickets', PAN officials warned that separating elections could significantly increase the national budget burden.

House of Representatives Receives Audience from Farmers' Day Protesters Highlighting Agrarian Reform Law

Representatives from various agrarian organisations met with the House of Representatives (DPR) to discuss ongoing land conflicts and concerns regarding the recent amendments to the Agrarian Reform Law. Protesters expressed fears that the new regulations focus too heavily on administrative processes rather than addressing the root causes of land disputes.

Macron Strikes UN Podium While Addressing Gaza Situation

French President Emmanuel Macron delivered a forceful speech at the UN General Assembly, criticising claims of peace in Gaza and slamming the lack of humanitarian corridors. His remarks directly challenged US President Donald Trump's assertions regarding diplomatic victories in the region.

Prabowo approves proposal to establish Peatland and Mangrove Management Agency

President Prabowo Subianto has approved a recommendation from researchers to form a National Peatland and Mangrove Management Agency (BPGMN). The new agency aims to centralise data, permits, and management to more effectively prevent forest and land fires, particularly in peatland areas.

Basic Tips Before Starting US Stock Investment

This article provides essential guidance for Indonesian retail investors looking to access the US stock market via local platforms. It highlights key considerations such as regulatory verification, managing time zone differences, currency exchange risks, and transaction costs.

Kayu Putih Urban Forest in Indramayu Catches Fire Due to Improperly Discarded Cigarette Butts

A fire broke out at the Kayu Putih Urban Forest in Indramayu, West Java, allegedly caused by discarded cigarette butts. Local firefighters managed to contain the blaze before it could spread to nearby residential areas.

3 Powerful Warren Buffett Investment Techniques That Are Often Overlooked

The article explores three fundamental investment principles used by Warren Buffett: identifying economic moats, extending holding periods, and viewing stocks as real businesses. These timeless strategies aim to improve long-term portfolio performance by focusing on business fundamentals rather than market speculation.