Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 4 September 2026

Showing 251-300 of 1,410 articles

Attorney General's Office Seizes Assets Worth Rp8.43 Billion from Former Head of National Nutrition Agency

The Attorney General's Office has seized assets valued at approximately Rp8.43 billion from Dadan Hindayana, the former head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), as part of a corruption investigation into the Free Nutritious Meal programme. The seizure includes luxury watches, vehicles, and significant amounts of foreign and local currency.

Inactive Tulungagung Regent Gatut Sunu undergoes first trial in corruption case

The inactive Regent of Tulungagung, Gatut Sunu Wibowo, and his aide appeared in the Surabaya Corruption Court for their first hearing. The defendants face charges of extortion and receiving gratifications totalling billions of rupiah through the abuse of official authority.

Pramono Considers Proposal to Cap Ragunan Entrance Fee at Rp10,000

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung is reviewing a proposal to increase the entrance fee for Ragunan Zoo to a maximum of Rp10,000. While acknowledging that current rates are significantly lower than other zoos, the Governor emphasised that any adjustment must remain affordable for the public.

Minister of Women Empowerment and Child Protection States Students in Sidoarjo Suffer Trauma Following Free Nutritious Meal Poisoning

The Minister of Women Empowerment and Child Protection, Arifatul Choiri Fauzi, has reported that students at a boarding school in Sidoarjo are experiencing trauma after mass food poisoning linked to the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. In response, the National Nutrition Agency has suspended the operations of the responsible kitchen unit and dismissed the head chef following investigations into procedural negligence.

Indonesian National Police Name 112 Suspects in Forest and Land Fire Cases

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) have identified 112 suspects linked to various forest and land fire incidents across the country. Investigations are ongoing for numerous cases involving the illegal clearing of land, which has affected over 4,700 hectares of land.

Prabowo Wants to Double Russian Trade, But Sanction Fears Persist

President Prabowo Subianto has proposed doubling bilateral trade between Indonesia and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) through a new free trade agreement. While the deal aims to expand markets for Indonesian palm oil and textiles, local businesses remain concerned about the potential for secondary sanctions from Western nations.

Pramono Anung States Flona 2026 Symbolises Jakarta's Diversity

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung highlighted the Flora and Fauna Exhibition (Flona) 2026 as a reflection of the city's multiculturalism and openness. The event aims to drive economic growth for MSMEs while promoting environmental awareness and biodiversity.

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs States KDKMP Transition Period to be Accelerated

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Bima Arya has announced that the operational transition period for the Merah Putih Village/Sub-district Cooperatives (KDKMP) will be shortened to approximately two years. The government aims to ensure effective management before handing over assets to local villages or designated business entities.

Opening the KDKMP Lampung Seminar, Minister: A Public Space to Provide Suggestions

The Indonesian Minister of Villages and Regional Development, Yandri Susanto, opened the National Seminar for the Merah Putih Village/Sub-district Cooperative (KDKMP) in Lampung. The forum aims to provide transparency regarding the KDKMP programme and invite public feedback to ensure successful implementation across various regions.

XLSmart Expands 5G Network After Winning Frequency Auction

Telecommunications provider XLSmart is accelerating its 5G rollout following the successful acquisition of the 2.6 GHz spectrum in a recent auction. The company has increased its 2026 capital expenditure guidance to Rp20 trillion to support network expansion across 101 cities.

Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Apologises for Reduced OSN Prize Money

The Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu'ti, has issued an apology following a significant reduction in prize money for National Science Olympiad (OSN) winners at the primary and lower secondary levels. The budget cuts affecting the National Achievement Centre (Puspresnas) have led to lower cash rewards, though the Minister emphasised that support for talented students remains a priority.

Pegadaian aims to transition 70 per cent of active customers into Tring! digital ecosystem

PT Pegadaian (Persero) has set a target to convert 70 per cent of its 27 million active customers to its digital application, Tring!. The state-owned enterprise plans to achieve this through enhanced Customer Relationship Management (CRM) strategies and feature updates tailored to modern needs, particularly for Gen Z.

Celebrating National Customer Day, BNI Embodies Spirit of 80 Years of Heartfelt Service

PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk is celebrating National Customer Day by reaffirming its commitment to excellence as it approaches its 80th anniversary. The bank's management team has been engaging directly with customers to strengthen trust and ensure services remain relevant to evolving needs.

Cooperative Minister: Presidential Regulation on KDKMP to be Issued Soon, Defining Cooperative Duties and Functions

The Minister of Cooperatives, Ferry Juliantono, has announced that a Presidential Regulation (Perpres) regarding the Merah Putih Village/Sub-district Cooperatives (KDKMP) will be issued shortly. The regulation aims to provide a clear legal framework for the cooperative's operations and prevent regulatory overlap with ministerial rules.

BYD Factory Established in Subang, Member of Parliament: Government Consistent in Promoting Investment and Downstreaming

A member of the Indonesian Parliament has welcomed the commencement of BYD's electric vehicle manufacturing operations in Subang, West Java. The facility represents a significant Rp16 trillion investment aimed at strengthening Indonesia's position as a regional production hub and accelerating the national energy transition.

If Bees 'Go on Strike', Global Agriculture Could Collapse

The decline in bee populations poses a significant threat to global food security, as pollinators are essential for the production of 75% of major food crops. Adopting agroecological practices and protecting bee habitats are crucial strategies to ensure sustainable agricultural productivity and prevent a potential 8% drop in global crop yields.

Fact Check: Is it True that the Varicella Vaccine is Causing a Shingles Pandemic?

This article debunks the misinformation claiming that the varicella (chickenpox) vaccine is responsible for a rise in shingles cases. It explains the biological mechanism of the Varicella-Zoster Virus and clarifies that vaccination remains a vital public health tool.

Army Chief of Staff states micro-hydro power plant development in Garut to serve as model for other regions

The Indonesian Army Chief of Staff, General Maruli Simanjuntak, has identified the micro-hydro power plant (PLTMH) project in Garut as a blueprint for future renewable energy initiatives. The project aims to provide up to 25,000 watts of electricity to local communities through coordinated efforts between the military and local government.

Deputy Minister of Manpower Invites Students to Oversee National Employment Programmes

Deputy Minister of Manpower Afriansyah Noor has called upon university students to act as independent moral forces in monitoring national employment policies. The Minister highlighted the importance of scientific-based oversight amidst global economic uncertainty and industrial challenges.

Ministry of Immigration and Correctional Services Distributes 20 Tonnes of Rice to Flores Earthquake Victims

The Indonesian Ministry of Immigration and Correctional Services (Kemenimipas) has delivered significant humanitarian aid, including 20 tonnes of rice, to those affected by the earthquake in Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara. The aid package, funded through a Rp1.8 billion donation drive, aims to support local communities, correctional officers, and inmates impacted by the disaster.

TASPEN introduces responsive services oriented towards participant needs

PT TASPEN (Persero) has reaffirmed its commitment to providing responsive, participant-focused services during the 2026 National Customer Day celebrations. The state-owned enterprise is leveraging digital transformation through its 'Andal by Taspen' superapp to enhance service accessibility for its 9.13 million participants.

Skeletal Remains Found Near Semarang Toll Road Strongly Suspected to be Murder Victim; Suspect Identified

Police in Semarang have identified a set of skeletal remains found near the Jangli toll road as likely belonging to Mozza Axillia Gunarsa, a teenager reported missing in June 2025. A 22-year-old male suspect has been apprehended and has reportedly confessed to strangling the victim.

Indonesia's Air Force deploys Caracal to fight Nusantara's wildfire

The Indonesian Air Force has deployed a Caracal helicopter to conduct water bombing operations following the reignition of wildfires near the new capital, Nusantara. The blaze has affected approximately five hectares of land in the Penajam Paser Utara District, prompting urgent aerial intervention to contain the spread.

ANTARA Trains University Press Club Students in News Agency Writing Standards

The state news agency, Perum LKBN ANTARA, has conducted journalism training for university press clubs in Kendari, Southeast Sulawesi. The programme aims to prepare future journalists by teaching international news agency writing standards and establishing a collaborative newsroom for students.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Strengthens Customer Engagement on National Customer Day

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has launched a series of engagement activities to mark National Customer Day 2026. The initiative focuses on gathering direct feedback from customers across 54 cities to enhance service quality and loyalty.

Ministry of Cooperatives to Provide Post-Production Processing Equipment for KDKMP Starting 2027

The Indonesian Ministry of Cooperatives plans to supply post-production machinery to the Merah Putih Village/Sub-district Cooperatives (KDKMP) beginning in 2027. This initiative aims to enhance the value-added potential of local products and strengthen the role of cooperatives as primary offtakers for MSME goods.

Police Seize Rp11.59 Million from Account of TikTok Creator Vilmei's Suspect

The Bekasi City Police have seized Rp11.59 million from the bank account of a suspect involved in the alleged embezzlement of TikTok creator Vilmei's account balance. The investigation into the fraud, which involves an estimated total loss of Rp1.28 billion, is ongoing as authorities track further transactions.

BMKG: One district in Bima experiencing extreme drought, 105 days without rain

The Indonesian Agency for Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics (BMKG) has reported that Bolo District in Bima Regency is facing extreme drought after 105 days without rainfall. This prolonged dry period is attributed to the El Niño phenomenon, which is expected to persist into early 2027.

Aviation Fuel Rises by 6.5%, Prepare for Flight Ticket Prices to Follow

The Indonesian government has increased the maximum fuel surcharge (FS) for economy class airfares from 30% to 40% following a 6.5% rise in avtur prices. This adjustment follows a regulated mechanism based on global oil price fluctuations to reflect changing operational costs.

Hackers to Hustlers: The 10th IndonesiaNEXT Programme Returns

Telkomsel has launched the 10th edition of its IndonesiaNEXT programme, focusing on developing digital talent through specialised roles such as hackers, hipsters, and hustlers. The initiative aims to foster innovation and networking among university students to support Indonesia's digital economy and the 'Indonesia Emas 2045' vision.

APHI Believes Presidential Instruction on Land Burning Ban Strengthens Forest Fire Prevention

The Indonesian Forest Entrepreneurs Association (APHI) has welcomed Presidential Instruction Number 1s of 2026, which reinforces the ban on land clearing through burning. The association emphasises that this policy is crucial for synchronising efforts between central and local governments to mitigate forest and land fire risks, particularly during El Niño conditions.

Wildfires Burn 60% of Bornean Orangutan Habitat

An analysis by Geopix reveals that 60.2 per cent of the Bornean orangutan habitat in Kalimantan has been affected by widespread forest fires. The report criticises the Indonesian government's failure to mitigate the disaster and calls for an urgent emergency action plan to protect remaining populations and ecosystems.

Police Thwart Distribution of Dozens of Etomidate Cartridges in Tangerang

The Metro Jaya Regional Police Narcotics Investigation Directorate successfully intercepted the distribution of 29 etomidate cartridges in Tangerang. One suspect, identified by the initials A, was arrested following a sting operation in an apartment parking area.

Appellate Court Reduces Sentences for Two Defendants in Acid Attack on Andrie Yunus

The Jakarta High Military Court II has reduced the prison sentences of two TNI soldiers involved in the acid attack against KontraS activist Andrie Yunus. While the prison terms were shortened, the court upheld the dismissal of the perpetrators from military service.

Danantara to Drive Transformation of State-Owned Hospitals

Danantara is spearheading a comprehensive transformation of PT Indonesia Healthcare Corporation (IHC) to establish a global-standard healthcare company. The initiative focuses on upgrading management, medical facilities, and human resources, with Pertamina Central Hospital (RSPP) serving as the prototype for this new standard.

Caught by 'Eagle Eye': Russian Ship Seized to Settle Debts

Norway has seized the Russian expedition vessel Professor Molchanov in the Arctic to assist the Ukrainian energy company Naftogaz in recovering compensation for seized assets in Crimea. The seizure follows an international arbitration ruling ordering Russia to pay US$4.22 billion in damages.

National Customer Day: bank bjb Introduces Equitable and Sustainable Services

To mark National Customer Day 2026, bank bjb has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive and sustainable banking through enhanced accessibility for disabled customers and eco-friendly initiatives. The bank's management participated directly in frontline services to strengthen customer relationships and promote digital innovation.

Indonesia to Set Up Urea Fertilizer Factory in Vladivostok

State-owned enterprise Pupuk Indonesia is conducting a joint study to establish a urea fertilizer production plant in Vladivostok, Russia. The initiative, supported by Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani, aims to bolster Indonesia's domestic food security and expand the company's presence in the strategic Pacific market.

BMKG Records 12,209 Aftershocks Hitting Flores, NTT

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has recorded over 12,000 aftershocks in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, following a massive magnitude 7.7 earthquake. The seismic activity has caused significant casualties and widespread destruction, including landslides and tens of thousands of damaged homes.

Indonesia projects MSMEs to penetrate European market through IEU-CEPA mechanism

The Indonesian government is actively promoting the implementation of the Indonesia-European Union Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU-CEPA). This initiative aims to strengthen trade and investment ties while providing significant opportunities for Indonesian MSMEs to access the European market.

House of Representatives Urged to Finalise Election Bill Before End of 2026

The Hanura Party has called on the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) and the government to complete the Election Bill deliberations by the end of 2026. The party argues that an early legal framework is essential to prevent technical disruptions to the 2029 election preparations.

Pertamina Imposes Sanctions on 161 Petrol Stations in South Sumatra, Here is the Reason

Pertamina Patra Niaga Regional Sumbagsel has sanctioned 161 petrol stations across South Sumatra, Jambi, Lampung, Bengkulu, and Bangka Belitung for violations in the distribution of subsidised fuel. The company is intensifying monitoring through digital programmes to ensure that fuel subsidies reach the intended recipients.

BNPB Reveals Forest and Land Fire Situation Across Sumatra, Kalimantan, and West Papua

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has reported widespread forest and land fires across several Indonesian provinces, with West Kalimantan facing hazardous air quality. Authorities are deploying thermal drones to detect underground fires in South Kalimantan as weather modification efforts face challenges due to a lack of cloud seeds.

Attorney General's Office Seizes Assets Worth Rp8.43 Billion from Dadan Hindayana

The Attorney General's Office has seized assets valued at approximately Rp8.43 billion belonging to Dadan Hindayana, the former Head of the National Nutrition Agency. The seizure is part of an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption regarding the management of the Free Nutritious Meal Programme for the 2025–2026 fiscal year.

Deputy Health Minister: Addressing TB Requires Expanding Preventive Therapy for Household Contacts

Indonesia's Deputy Health Minister, Benjamin Paulus Octavianus, has called for intensified upstream prevention measures to combat tuberculosis. The initiative focuses on expanding preventive therapy for individuals in close contact with TB patients to significantly reduce infection rates.

No More Expired Data: XLSmart Boss Reveals Options for Unused Quota Replacement

XLSmart's Chief Regulatory Officer, Merza Fachys, has detailed how telecommunications operators can protect consumer rights regarding unused internet quota following a Constitutional Court ruling. Proposed solutions include extending active periods, accumulating data for future purchases, or converting remaining data into reward points.

Police Bust Illegal Prescription Drug Ring Disguised as Shops in South Jakarta

South Jakarta police have dismantled an illegal distribution network of prescription drugs operating under the guise of mobile phone credit counters and grocery stalls. The operation led to the arrest of three suspects and the seizure of thousands of illicit pills targeting school-aged children.

TransJakarta 'Sky Route' Delayed Due to Broken-Down Truck, Passengers Pile Up at CSW

TransJakarta's Corridor 13 services experienced significant delays this afternoon following a broken-down truck near the MTs/MA Annajah area. The disruption led to large crowds of passengers accumulating at the CSW station in South Jakarta.

Ahead of SOE Construction Consolidation, Brantas Abipraya Merges Subsidiaries

PT Brantas Abipraya (Persero) has initiated a restructuring of its subsidiary, PT Brantas Energi, by merging PT Buana Enjiniring Konsultan and PT Guna Rogate Indah into PT Graha Investama Bersama. This move is part of a broader streamlining programme aligned with the transformation directives from Danantara Indonesia to create a more efficient and competitive corporate structure.

20 Hectares of Forest Fire in Inhil Extinguished, Joint Team Continues Cooling Process

A joint task force has successfully extinguished a forest and land fire covering approximately 20 hectares in Indragiri Hilir, Riau. While the flames are out, authorities are continuing cooling operations and investigating the cause of the blaze to identify potential criminal liability.