Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 3 September 2026

Showing 601-650 of 1,545 articles

Prabowo seeks to double Indonesia-Russia trade via I-EAEU FTA

President Prabowo Subianto has proposed doubling the trade volume between Indonesia and Russia during the initial review period of the Indonesia-Eurasian Economic Union Free Trade Agreement. Speaking at the 11th Eastern Economic Forum, he highlighted how the complementary nature of both economies can drive sustainable growth through the exchange of commodities and technology.

Bareskrim Uncovers Online Gambling Network Using Social Media Comment Spam

The Indonesian National Police's Cyber Crime Directorate has dismantled an online gambling network that utilised spam comments on social media to redirect users to various gambling sites. Investigations revealed that the operational control centre for these websites is located overseas, leading to the arrest of three suspects involved in managing fund-collection accounts.

Hashim Suddenly Meets Public Works Minister, Key Topics Discussed

Hashim Djojohadikusumo, the Special Envoy to the President for Energy and Climate Change, met with Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo to discuss sustainable infrastructure development. The discussions focused on ensuring infrastructure projects drive economic growth, job creation, and poverty alleviation while maintaining environmental sustainability.

Prabowo invites Russia to collaborate on clean energy and food security

President Prabowo Subianto has called for expanded economic cooperation with Russia, moving beyond simple commodity trade towards joint industrial development. The proposal focuses on strategic sectors including renewable energy, nuclear technology, and agricultural strengthening to bolster Indonesia's food security.

Jakarta Provincial Government Enhances Competency of Early Childhood Family Development Cadres

The Jakarta Provincial Government, through the Department of Empowerment, Child Protection, and Population Control, is conducting orientation programmes to boost the skills of Bina Keluarga Balita (BKB) cadres. This initiative aims to improve child development and parenting quality across the capital's 1,127 BKB groups.

Gus Ipul asserts no involvement of PMII or HMI within NU

Saifullah Yusuf, the Chairman of the Organizing Committee for the 35th NU Muktamar, has dismissed claims that the organisation's internal affairs are influenced by student organisations such as PMII and HMI. He emphasised that all decisions within Nahdlatul Ulama are made through formal organisational mechanisms rather than individual or group interests.

Government Targets Construction of 20 Ethanol Plants by 2027

The Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources aims to establish 20 new bioethanol plants by 2027 to support the implementation of the E10 biofuel blend. The government is actively seeking investors to bridge the significant gap between current feedstock availability and the projected demand for the upcoming programme.

Following Subang Factory Inauguration, BYD Prepares Battery Assembly in Indonesia

Following the inauguration of its first manufacturing plant in Subang, BYD Indonesia plans to expand its investment to include battery assembly operations. The company aims to bolster the local electric vehicle ecosystem and achieve a 60 per cent local content requirement (TKDN) by 2027.

Luhut States Social Assistance Scheme Will Be Changed, Recipients to be Verified via Biometrics

The Chairman of the National Economic Council, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, has announced plans to restructure the government's social assistance (bansos) scheme. The government intends to shift from product-based subsidies to direct cash transfers, utilising biometric and facial recognition technology to ensure transparency and accuracy.

The Fate of the Ice Cream Business Amid Rising Raw Material Imports and Logistics Costs

The Indonesian ice cream industry faces stagnation in both value and volume despite robust national household consumption. Challenges include a heavy reliance on imported raw materials amidst Rupiah volatility and rising distribution costs due to increased fuel prices.

Forest Fire Smoke Surrounds Davao, Philippines; Residents Urged to Stay Indoors

Health authorities in Davao, Philippines, have issued a warning to residents following the arrival of haze caused by forest and land fires in Indonesia. The smog has led to a decline in air quality, prompting officials to advise the use of N95 masks and increased caution for motorists due to reduced visibility.

JCI Jumps 1.09% Towards 6,700 Level Driven by Strong Stock Performance

The Indonesia Composite Index (IHSG) rose by 1.09% to reach the 6,667.89 level during Thursday's trading session. The surge was primarily supported by heavyweights such as Bank Central Asia and Astra International, despite ongoing global economic uncertainties.

Health Minister states 3,200 hospitals can be utilised to boost specialist production

Indonesia's Minister of Health, Budi Gunadi Sadikin, aims to utilise 3,200 hospitals across the country as educational centres to address the national shortage of medical specialists. The initiative involves expanding specialist study programmes to ensure essential medical services, including basic specialties, are available even in the most remote regions.

Police Arrest Online Gambling Kingpins, Transactions Reach Rp 1 Trillion

Indonesian police have uncovered three major online gambling syndicates involving websites with transaction volumes reaching up to Rp 1.03 trillion. The investigation has led to several arrests and the identification of fugitives involved in large-scale illegal gambling operations.

KLH Law Enforcement Team Tightens Cyber Patrols to Respond to Public Complaints

The Ministry of Environment (KLH) has intensified its digital monitoring efforts by deploying cyber patrol teams to track environmental crimes reported on social media. This initiative aims to bolster law enforcement by addressing environmental damage and corporate violations more rapidly through digital intelligence.

Trump: US Attacks on Iran Aim to Protect Israel and the Middle East

US President Donald Trump has stated that Washington's military actions against Iran are intended to safeguard Israel, the Middle East, and Western nations from Tehran's threats. The remarks come amid a recent escalation in hostilities, including US strikes on rocket launchers in Iran and subsequent Iranian missile responses.

Prabowo Seeks Direct Shipping and Flight Routes Between Indonesia and Russia

President Prabowo Subianto has proposed the establishment of direct maritime and aviation routes between Indonesia and Russia to bolster economic connectivity. He emphasised the need to transition bilateral relations from personal trust to robust institutional cooperation involving reliable payment systems and predictable logistics.

BPDLH examines best approach for FRLD disaster recovery fund mechanism

The Indonesian Environmental Fund Management Agency (BPDLH) is currently evaluating two proposals to utilise the World Bank's Flood, Risk, and Loss Fund (FRLD) for both terrestrial and coastal disaster management. The agency aims to establish a strategic approach that covers both post-disaster recovery and proactive mitigation to ensure effective climate change adaptation.

Farewell Seoul! South Korea to Relocate Presidential Palace and State Institutions

The South Korean government has announced plans to relocate the presidential office to the administrative city of Sejong by August 2029. The initiative aims to decentralise the nation by moving approximately 350 public institutions away from the Seoul metropolitan area to combat regional demographic decline.

Indonesian National Police Dismantle 1XBET Online Gambling Ring, Five Suspects Arrested

The Cyber Crime Directorate of the Indonesian National Police has uncovered an international online gambling operation involving the website 1XBET. Five individuals have been arrested for their roles in managing a fictitious company used to facilitate illegal gambling transactions.

BYD Opens Rp16 Trillion EV Factory in West Java's Subang

Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD has officially inaugurated a new Rp16 trillion manufacturing facility in Subang, West Java. The integrated plant features advanced robotics and aims to expand its local workforce from 5,000 to 20,000 employees as it reaches full production capacity.

Indonesia Pushes for Pro-Growth Reforms at the 2026 G20 FMCBG

During the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting in North Carolina, Indonesia advocated for reducing investment barriers and enhancing technological innovation. Vice Minister of Finance Juda Agung emphasised the importance of balancing artificial intelligence advancements with robust consumer protection and international cooperation to combat global financial fraud.

Building at Batam Customs Office Catches Fire, Suspected to be Caused by Solar Panels

A fire broke out at the Batam Customs Office in Riau Islands on Thursday afternoon, reportedly originating from the building's roof. Preliminary investigations suggest that the solar panel batteries may have ignited due to high temperatures.

Head of Nutrition Service Apologises Following Mass Diarrhoea Outbreak Affecting 750 Students and Teachers at SMAN 1 Lasem

A mass diarrhoea outbreak has affected 725 students and 25 teachers at SMAN 1 Lasem, Rembang, allegedly caused by the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The head of the local Nutrition Fulfilment Service (SPPG) has issued a formal apology and pledged a total evaluation of food safety procedures.

NasDem Legislator Urges National Nutrition Agency to Disclose Free Nutritious Meal Unit Price to Avoid Confusion

Irma Chaniago, a NasDem Party member of Commission IX of the DPR, has called on the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) to publicly disclose the specific cost per portion of the Free Nutritious Meal programme. She emphasised the need for transparency to prevent public confusion regarding budget discrepancies and to ensure the programme's fiscal sustainability.

DPR Budget Committee Chair Urges Government to Resolve Decile Data Controversy

The Chairman of the DPR Budget Committee, Said Abdullah, has called on the Indonesian government to improve the accuracy of decile data used for subsidy distribution. He highlighted significant issues with inclusion and exclusion errors, where eligible poor citizens are excluded while wealthier groups receive benefits.

Influenza Cases Surge in Singapore, Residents Urged to Stay at Home

Singapore has seen a significant rise in influenza-like illness (ILI) rates, reaching 36.6 per cent in mid-August. Health authorities have advised vulnerable groups to seek vaccination and urged symptomatic individuals to remain at home to prevent further spread.

Sempurna, the Viral Orangutan Weakened by Forest Fire Smoke, Has Passed Away

An adult male orangutan named Sempurna has died following severe respiratory distress caused by smoke from forest and land fires. Despite emergency rescue efforts and medical intervention by BKSDA West Kalimantan and YIARI, the animal succumbed to his condition.

Ministry of Cooperatives Ensures Every Budget Allocation is Used Effectively, Transparently, and Efficiently

The Ministry of Cooperatives has addressed allegations regarding a proposed Rp 103 billion budget allocation, clarifying that the funds are not specifically for podcasts. The Ministry emphasised that the proposed budget covers various essential functions, including public relations, IT, and infrastructure, as part of a broader budget proposal for 2027.

Indonesian Police Bust International Online Gambling Network with Transactions Exceeding Rp 1 Trillion

The Criminal Investigation Directorate of the Indonesian National Police has dismantled an international online gambling syndicate operating sites such as 1XBET and EMPIRE88. The network utilised fictitious companies and local payment service providers to manage transactions totalling over Rp 1 trillion.

Only Invited to Meetings, Purbaya Denies Danantara Will Join KSSK

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has clarified that the Danantara Investment Agency will not become a new member of the Financial System Stability Committee (KSSK). Instead, the agency will only be invited to routine meetings to provide insights from the real sector perspective.

Despite Bright Prospects, Indonesia's Umrah and Hajj Travel Industry Urged to Improve Service Quality

The Indonesian Umrah and Hajj travel industry faces growing competition as pilgrims become increasingly selective regarding service quality and company legality. Amidst this evolving landscape, PT Jannah Firdaus Tour and Travel has been recognised as 'PPIU of the Year' for its operational excellence.

UN Warns of Potential Largest El Niño in 1,000 Years, 50 Million People at Risk of Hunger

The United Nations and the World Meteorological Organisation have issued an emergency warning regarding a rapidly intensifying El Niño phenomenon. This climate event is projected to be the most significant in a millennium, potentially driving global temperatures to historic highs and threatening widespread food security.

Indonesian National Police Dismantle Online Gambling Network with Rp1.03 Trillion in Transactions

The Criminal Investigation Directorate of the Indonesian National Police has uncovered an international online gambling network operating sites such as 1XBET and AJ8KEREN. Investigations revealed that the network processed transactions totalling over Rp1.03 trillion, with funds flowing through a specific payment service provider.

Bank Mandiri Partners with PMI to Organise Blood Drives Across Various Regions

Bank Mandiri has collaborated with the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) to conduct simultaneous blood donation drives across 12 regions in Indonesia. The initiative aims to support national blood supply needs and marks part of the bank's ongoing corporate social responsibility efforts.

Creator of Ride-Hailing Services Lays Off 3,000 Employees, Citing Unique Reasons

Uber has announced a reduction of up to 10% of its workforce, affecting approximately 3,000 employees. Unlike many firms citing AI as a cause, Uber aims to simplify management layers and reduce costs to free up capacity for future investments, such as autonomous vehicles.

Garuda Indonesia Tyre Burst During Take-off from Soekarno-Hatta; Management Confirms Mitigation Measures Taken

A Garuda Indonesia flight from Jakarta to Kendari via Makassar experienced a tyre burst on one of its main wheels during take-off from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. The airline confirmed that all passengers and crew were safe and that the aircraft landed normally in Makassar following standard safety protocols.

The Fast-Tracked Oil and Gas Bill

The leadership of House of Representatives Commission XII has undergone a sudden change, with Melchias Markus Mekeng replacing Bambang Patijaya as Chair. This reshuffle reportedly coincides with renewed deliberations regarding revisions to the Oil and Gas Law, allegedly under the direction of the Golkar Party.

Why Finance Minister Purbaya Ends Tax Amnesty Program

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that the government will not reintroduce tax amnesty programmes during his tenure to avoid legal risks for tax officials and prevent encouraging tax evasion. Instead, the Ministry of Finance intends to focus on enhancing tax compliance and refining collection processes under existing laws to boost state revenue.

The High Court Upholds Nicko Widjaja's 3-Year Sentence in the TaniHub Case Due to ...

The DKI Jakarta High Court has upheld a three-year prison sentence for Nicko Widjaja regarding a corruption case involving investment funds from BRI Ventura Investama to TaniHub Group. The judges rejected the defence's argument that the losses were merely business risks, ruling instead that the defendant intentionally bypassed good corporate governance principles, resulting in significant state financial losses.

Bhayangkari Manggarai Distributes Aid to Earthquake Refugees in Cibal

The Manggarai branch of Bhayangkari, the organisations for the wives of Indonesian National Police members, has distributed social assistance to earthquake victims in Cibal District, East Nusa Tenggara. The aid includes essential supplies such as rice, milk, and sanitary products, alongside trauma healing support for affected residents.

Malaysia wants tougher ASEAN action on haze, but bloc faces familiar obstacles

Malaysia is calling for a review of the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution to implement stronger enforcement and accountability measures. However, experts warn that achieving a haze-free region by 2030 remains difficult due to the bloc's principles of non-interference and the need for consensus from major players like Indonesia.

Malaysia wants ASEAN to rethink its haze pact, but here is why breaking the cycle could be tough

Malaysia is calling for a review of the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution to address the recurring issue of smoke from Indonesian forest fires. While Malaysia and Singapore seek stronger enforcement, experts suggest that achieving a haze-free region by 2030 remains difficult due to ASEAN's principles of non-interference and the need for Indonesian cooperation.

SEAPPI Releases White Paper to Close AI Capability Gap in Indonesia

The Southeast Asia Public Policy Institute (SEAPPI) has published a white paper titled 'Closing the AI Capability Gap in Indonesia', highlighting the disparity between AI potential and actual usage. The report, supported by OpenAI, suggests expanding access to advanced AI tools and enhancing user expertise to drive national productivity.

Video: OJK Aims for Productive Financing to Reach 48%, Can Leasing Companies Deliver?

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) is pushing the multi-finance industry to increase the proportion of productive financing to between 46% and 48% by 2027. Industry experts suggest that sectors such as logistics, manufacturing, and MSME working capital are key drivers for this growth.

Discussing Energy Security at Unmul, Eddy Emphasises Equitable Access

The Deputy Speaker of the MPR RI, Eddy Soeparno, has highlighted that national energy security must extend beyond supply availability to include affordable pricing and equitable distribution. Speaking at Universitas Mulawarman, he emphasised the need for energy diversification and the strengthening of domestic renewable energy to protect the economy from global geopolitical disruptions.

Dining Together: The Lunch Menu for Prabowo-Putin Meeting in Vladivostok, Russia

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto met with Russian President Vladimir Putin during the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok. The meeting, held over a formal lunch, highlighted the strategic partnership between Indonesia and Russia.

Prabowo in Russia: Trade Frequently Used as a Weapon

President Prabowo Subianto addressed the 11th Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, highlighting the risks of fragmented global geopolitics. He emphasised the need for resilient, multi-layered financial architectures to ensure international trade remains functional despite growing global suspicions.

Government Maps 28 Commodities for Downstreaming Strategy through 2045

The Indonesian government has identified 28 strategic commodities for a long-term downstream industrialisation roadmap spanning until 2045. Of these, 15 commodities have been prioritised for the National Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMN) to attract an estimated $618 billion in investment.

Prabowo Reaffirms Indonesia's Non-Aligned Stance, but Commits to Maintaining Good Relations with All Nations

President Prabowo Subianto has reaffirmed Indonesia's commitment to a non-aligned foreign policy during the Eastern Economic Forum in Russia. He emphasised that while Indonesia will not join any military alliances, the nation remains open to fair trade and cooperation with all global powers.