Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 3 September 2026

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NTB High Prosecutor's Office Struggles to Find Evidence in PT GNE Capital Corruption Case; Case May Be Dropped

The West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) High Prosecutor's Office is facing difficulties in securing sufficient evidence regarding alleged corruption in the capital injection for PT Gerbang NTB Emas (GNE). Consequently, the investigation into the 2019-2024 capital injection may be terminated, although a separate investigation into water supply cooperation remains ongoing.

Ministry of Public Works Completes Repairs on Lumut Bridge in Central Aceh

The Indonesian Ministry of Public Works has successfully completed the permanent restoration of the Lumut Bridge in Central Aceh following disaster damage. The project involved technical upgrades, including raising the bridge structure, to ensure long-term connectivity and economic stability in the region.

Estonian Defence Minister Resigns Over £33 Million Fake Ammunition Scandal for Ukraine

Estonian Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur has resigned following a failed €70 million artillery ammunition procurement intended for Ukraine. The scandal involves an Italian company owned by an Indian entity that failed to deliver usable munitions despite receiving significant advance payments.

Garuda Indonesia aircraft suffers tyre burst on Jakarta-Makassar flight; passengers safe

A Garuda Indonesia Boeing 737-800 flight from Jakarta to Makassar experienced a tyre burst on one of its main wheels during approach. Following safety procedures including a go-around, the aircraft landed safely at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport without any injuries to passengers or crew.

Ridho Rahmadi Steps Down as Chairman of Ummat Party, Shares Message from Amien Rais

Ridho Rahmadi has officially resigned from his position as Chairman of the Ummat Party to focus on his academic role at the BMD Artificial Intelligence Polytechnic. The resignation, which also includes the departure of Secretary General Taufik Hidayat, marks a leadership transition as the party prepares for the 2029 General Election.

Cultural exchange between China and Egypt records rapid progress

China and Egypt are strengthening their bilateral ties through enhanced cultural and archaeological cooperation. Building on ancient Silk Road connections, recent joint excavations and exhibitions are fostering deeper mutual understanding between the two ancient civilisations.

In Front of Prabowo, Putin Promotes Cooperation in Shipbuilding and Nuclear Energy

Russian President Vladimir Putin has identified Indonesia as a key partner in the Asia-Pacific region, highlighting significant potential for bilateral cooperation. Discussions between Putin and President Prabowo focused on expanding partnerships in shipbuilding, digital technology, and nuclear energy.

Officially Apple's New Boss: How Much Will John Ternus Earn?

John Ternus has officially assumed the role of CEO at Apple, succeeding Tim Cook. According to recent filings, Ternus's compensation package is expected to exceed IDR 1 trillion per year, including significant stock grants.

Indonesia Promotes Regulation Reform to Spur Investment

Indonesian Deputy Minister of Finance, Juda Agung, has emphasised the necessity of structural and regulatory reforms to reduce business barriers and attract investment. The government's strategy focuses on strengthening the financial sector through the UU P2SK law, promoting downstreaming of natural resources, and enhancing the efficiency of state-owned enterprises.

Fisherman Missing in Areguling Beach Waters, Central Lombok, Boat Found Damaged

A fisherman from Central Lombok has been reported missing after his boat was found severely damaged and leaking in the waters of Areguling Beach. Search and rescue operations involving multiple agencies are currently underway to locate the individual.

MSM determined to become Indonesia's best sugarcane producer

PT Muria Sumba Manis (MSM), a Djarum Group agribusiness, aims to become Indonesia's premier sugarcane producer to support national sugar self-sufficiency. The company has invested approximately Rp9.2 trillion in East Sumba, NTT, to develop integrated plantations and a modern sugar processing facility.

Regarding the OTT Issue in Bogor Regency, CEO of PT Sayaga Wisata Bogor Urges Residents Not to be Provoked

The President Director of PT Sayaga Wisata Bogor, Sambas Setia Permana, has called on the residents and youth of Bogor Regency to remain calm amidst rumours of a Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) sting operation. He emphasised the importance of verifying information and avoiding unverified social media narratives to maintain regional stability.

Ministry of Cooperatives Achieves Unqualified Opinion from BPK for 2025 Fiscal Year

The Indonesian Ministry of Cooperatives has received an Unqualified Opinion (WTP) from the Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) for its 2025 financial statements. Minister Ferry Juliantono emphasised that this achievement reflects the ministry's commitment to accountable budget management and transparency.

Nicolas Maduro Requests US Court to Dismiss Narco-Terrorism Charges

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has petitioned a federal judge in New York to drop drug trafficking and narco-terrorism charges against him, citing sovereign immunity. Currently detained in Brooklyn, Maduro's legal team argues that US authorities lack the jurisdiction to prosecute a recognised head of state.

BPBD: Burned Land Area in Batang Hari Reaches 479.48 Hectares

The Batang Hari Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has reported that forest and land fires have scorched 479.48 hectares in Jambi as of 2 September 2026. The fires have led to unhealthy air quality levels in Muara Bulian, with PM2.5 concentrations reaching an index of 176.

Central Java Provincial Government Insures 10,000 Hectares of Rice Fields to Anticipate Crop Failure

The Central Java Provincial Government has implemented an insurance scheme covering 10,000 hectares of farmland to protect farmers from the financial impact of crop failure. Governor Ahmad Luthfi aims to prevent farmers from falling into debt with online lenders or moneylenders during periods of drought.

Oil and Gas Fund Levies Proposed: A Look at the Proposed Scheme

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) is drafting a new Oil and Gas Bill that includes the establishment of a dedicated fund to support exploration and energy infrastructure. The proposed scheme involves collecting revenues through a new Special Business Entity (BUK Migas) to enhance national energy reserves.

Minister of Industry: Indonesia possesses strong capital to build complete EV industry

The Indonesian Minister of Industry, Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita, has highlighted Indonesia's potential to establish a comprehensive electric vehicle (EV) supply chain from upstream to downstream. This vision is supported by the recent inauguration of BYD's production facility in Subang, West Java, amidst a growing domestic EV market.

Following Lunch with Putin, Prabowo Attends 11th EEF as Guest of Honour

President Prabowo Subianto attended the 11th Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) in Vladivostok, Russia, as a guest of honour. Following a private lunch with President Vladimir Putin, Prabowo participated in a high-level panel alongside leaders from Mongolia, Myanmar, and China.

Trade Minister states Indonesia-Malaysia discuss barriers to agricultural product market access

The Indonesian and Malaysian governments have met to address trade barriers and market access issues, particularly concerning agricultural and food products. The 4th Joint Trade and Investment Committee meeting focused on enhancing bilateral trade, investment, and cooperation in sectors such as e-commerce and halal standards.

WSJ: Trump Considering Ending War with Iran

US President Donald Trump is reportedly considering a formal declaration to end the conflict with Iran, despite the Pentagon extending troop deployments in the Middle East. The strategy involves leveraging intense economic pressure to force Tehran to dismantle its nuclear programme.

Prabowo Apologises for Missing Russia-ASEAN Summit

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has formally apologised to President Vladimir Putin for his absence from the Russia-ASEAN Summit in Kazan. The President explained that his decision to stay in Indonesia was driven by the need to address pressing domestic issues, including large-scale protests and recent natural disasters.

DPR Commission V Member Calls for Decommissioning of Village Assistants

Musa Rajekshah, a member of Commission V of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR), has proposed an evaluation of the Ministry of Village and Regional Development's budget allocation. He argues that a significant portion of the budget is being spent on salaries for village assistants without delivering tangible economic improvements or effective rural development programmes.

US Air Strikes in Iran: 18 Dead and 142 Injured

Tensions in the Middle East have escalated following a series of US air strikes in Iran, resulting in at least 18 deaths and 142 injuries. The military operations have led to retaliatory strikes by the IRGC against US facilities in neighbouring countries, threatening regional stability and vital trade routes.

RESSED UI Urges Optimisation of Reserves and Mining Downstreaming

The Research Group on Energy Security for Sustainable Development at the University of Indonesia (RESSED UI) has called for a more integrated approach to mining downstreaming to maximise domestic value. Experts emphasise that true downstreaming requires a complete ecosystem, from upstream supply certainty to downstream manufacturing, rather than just building smelters.

Tourist Visits to Cuba Drop by 49.8 Per Cent in First Seven Months of 2026

Cuba has experienced a significant decline in tourism, with visitor numbers falling by nearly 50 per cent during the first seven months of 2026. The downturn is attributed to intensifying US economic sanctions, fuel shortages, and widespread power outages across the island.

Wagub Sarbin Sehe Bidik Investor, PAD Malut Jadi Target Utama

The Vice Governor of North Maluku, Sarbin Sehe, is targeting increased foreign investment through the North Moluccas Investment Business Forum (NMIBF) 2026. The initiative aims to convert the province's natural resources into economic strength, specifically focusing on boosting regional original income (PAD) and creating local employment.

Riau Islands Regional Police Destroy 2,902 Etomidate Cartridges and Narcotics

The Riau Islands Regional Police have destroyed a significant quantity of narcotics and medical cartridges following the resolution of 26 criminal cases in Batam. The seizure includes substantial amounts of methamphetamine, cannabis, and ecstasy, alongside etomidate cartridges smuggled via maritime routes.

Witness Claims Gus Alex Ordered Team to Prepare Justifications for 50:50 Hajj Quota Split

A witness in the Hajj quota corruption trial testified that a team was formed to prepare responses for the DPR's Special Committee. The testimony suggests the team aimed to establish the chronology and reasons behind the controversial 50:50 split between regular and special Hajj quotas.

Ministry of Transportation Allocates Budget for 309 Pioneer Flight Routes in Remote Areas

The Indonesian Ministry of Transport has prepared a budget of Rp6.12 trillion for the Directorate General of Civil Aviation for 2027. The funds are earmarked for maintaining 309 pioneer flight routes, developing several regional airports, and enhancing aviation safety and security facilities.

Aircraft imports surge by 594 per cent until July 2026

The Indonesian Ministry of Trade has reported a massive 594.46 per cent increase in the import of aircraft and their components between January and July 2026. Minister Budi Santoso noted that most imports consist of raw materials and capital goods essential for domestic production and investment.

MSM determined to become Indonesia's premier sugarcane producer

PT Muria Sumba Manis (MSM), a Djarum Group subsidiary, aims to become Indonesia's top sugarcane producer through large-scale investments in East Sumba. The company is leveraging advanced technology and significant capital to support national sugar self-sufficiency and boost the economy of Eastern Indonesia.

64.2 Per Cent of Indonesian Population Still Below World Bank Poverty Standard: What are the Indicators?

Recent World Bank data reveals that 64.2 per cent of Indonesia's population lives below the international poverty threshold of US$8.30 per person per day. This figure places Indonesia fourth among eleven compared nations, trailing only Timor-Leste, India, and Laos.

Indonesia and Saudi Arabia Strengthen Collaboration in Research and Talent Development

Indonesia and Saudi Arabia are expanding their cooperation in higher education, science, and technology through enhanced research collaboration and academic mobility. The initiative includes a commitment from Saudi Arabia to provide 1,000 scholarships for Indonesian students for the 2026–2027 academic year.

Natalius Pigai: Asset Forfeiture Bill Must Not Seize People's Property Rights

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has urged that the proposed Asset Forfeiture Bill must target corrupt officials and criminal syndicates rather than the general public. He emphasised that property rights in a rule-of-law state should only be forfeited through court decisions, not solely through legislative mandate.

Riau People Are Not Commodities: Farmers' Group Urges Authorities to Crack Down on Troublemakers

The Leading Farmers and Fishermen Group (KTNA) has condemned recent demonstrations at the PT Agrinas Palma Nusantara headquarters, alleging they were orchestrated by paid thugs. The group is calling on law enforcement to investigate the use of criminal elements masquerading as local representatives to manipulate land management issues.

Baznas partners with Ministry of Hajj to promote domestic Hajj 'Dam' implementation for 2027

The National Board of Zakat (Baznas) is collaborating with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to explore the possibility of performing Hajj 'dam' (sacrimentally slaughtered meat) within Indonesia. If realised, the initiative aims to utilise processed meat to support disaster relief and combat stunting through large-scale distribution programmes.

Acute Respiratory Infection Cases Rise in Natuna Due to Forest Fire Smoke

Acute Respiratory Infection (ARI) cases in Natuna Regency, Riau Islands, have increased following smoke drift from forest and land fires in Kalimantan. Local health authorities are currently monitoring several community health centres (Puskesmas) as infection numbers fluctuate across the region.

Minister of Forestry's Flight Fails to Land in Pontianak Due to Haze

The Minister of Forestry, Raja Juli Antoni, was unable to land at Supadio Airport in Pontianak as thick haze from forest and land fires severely reduced visibility. The visit to West Kalimantan has been postponed, though efforts are underway to provide emergency equipment and coordinate fire prevention measures.

MUI Urges East Java Governor to Ban 'Sound Horeg' Following Three Fatalities

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) of East Java is calling on the provincial government to issue a regulation banning 'sound horeg'—extremely loud mobile sound systems. This urgent request follows a series of incidents in August that resulted in the deaths of three residents.

Indonesia and Malaysia Agree to Boost Trade and Investment

Indonesian Minister of Trade Budi Santoso and Malaysian Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani have met to revitalise bilateral economic cooperation. The meeting resulted in five key agreements, including enhancing border trade and fostering a conducive investment climate.

Forest Fires Spread in South Kalimantan, Seven Regions Declare Emergency Alert Status

Seven regencies and cities in South Kalimantan have entered an emergency alert status due to the widespread expansion of forest and land fires. The increasing number of hotspots and the resulting smoke exposure have led to rising cases of respiratory infections among local residents.

Research: Global Warming Increases El Niño Intensity

A new study published in the journal Science reveals that climate change has increased the strength of El Niño by 36 per cent compared to pre-industrial levels. The findings highlight how human-induced global temperature surges are intensifying the frequency and severity of extreme weather events worldwide.

Deputy Minister Stella Promotes Research-Based Utilisation of Natural Hydrogen

Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Stella Christie has called for a measured, research-driven approach to developing Indonesia's natural hydrogen potential. The initiative aims to leverage geological processes to establish Indonesia as a global leader in low-carbon energy production.

Erajaya (ERAA) Plans Share Buyback Worth Up to Rp 500 Billion

PT Erajaya Swasembada Tbk (ERAA) has announced plans to execute a share buyback valued at up to Rp 500 billion to maintain market stability amidst significant fluctuations. The programme is scheduled to take place in stages over a three-month period between September and December 2026.

National Customer Day 2026 Theme: Commemorated on 4 September

National Customer Day 2026, observed annually on 4 September, marks over two decades of recognising the vital role of customers in Indonesia's business landscape. This year's theme, #ThinkCustomer, encourages Indonesian companies to place customer experience at the heart of every business decision.

Video: Illegal Fishing Vessels Not Sunk! Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Grants Them to Fishermen

The Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has implemented a strategy to repurpose seized illegal fishing vessels instead of sinking them. These vessels are being donated to local fishermen, regional governments, and educational institutions to support the national blue economy.

Link-AR Urges Government to Investigate Corporations Causing Forest Fires

The advocacy group Link-AR Borneo is calling on the Indonesian government to hold corporations accountable for forest and land fires in West Kalimantan. The organisation highlights that high numbers of hotspots are located within or adjacent to corporate concessions, necessitating a thorough investigation and a reform of land governance.

DPR Commission III Urges Police to Take Firm Action Against Foreign Nationals Causing Disorder

Ahmad Sahroni, Vice Chairman of Commission III of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR), has called on police and immigration authorities to strictly enforce laws against foreign nationals who disrupt public order. He specifically advocated for the immediate prosecution and deportation of foreigners involved in criminal acts, such as recent assaults in Bali.

Putin thanks Prabowo for attending EEF as guest of honour

Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his gratitude to President Prabowo Subianto for attending the 11th Eastern Economic Forum as a primary guest of honour. The meeting highlighted the strategic bilateral relationship between Russia and Indonesia, with discussions focusing on expanding trade and cooperation in sectors such as energy and agriculture.