Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 4 September 2026

Showing 301-350 of 1,410 articles

Ministry of Tourism introduces traditional textiles as Indonesian cultural attraction

The Indonesian Ministry of Tourism is promoting traditional textiles, known as 'wastra', as a key driver for cultural tourism through the 'Jelajah Indonesia Wastra Nusantara' exhibition. The initiative aims to use the storytelling power of batik and woven fabrics to connect travellers with various regional destinations across the archipelago.

Latest Tech Trend: French AI Duck Powered by Chinese Hardware Sells Rapidly

The Microduck personal robot, developed by a French-American firm, has achieved significant sales success, surpassing US$5 million in revenue shortly after launch. The robot's reliance on Chinese-made Rockchip processors highlights the continued interdependence of the global technology supply chain despite rising geopolitical tensions.

Gibran Apologises to North Sumatra Flash Flood Victims Over Delay in Permanent Housing Construction

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has issued an apology to residents of South Tapanuli following delays in the construction of permanent housing after recent flash floods. The Vice President emphasised the government's commitment to accelerating development to ensure all disaster victims have access to safe and decent living conditions.

Indonesia's Air Force flies 12.5 tons of rice to Yahukimo

The Indonesian Air Force has deployed a Hercules aircraft to transport 12.5 tons of rice to Yahukimo, Papua, to bypass disrupted waterways caused by drought. This emergency air bridge ensures that essential government food aid reaches residents in the Highland Papua region despite declining river levels.

Residents in Gedangsari, Gunungkidul, Pay Up to Rp 350,000 per Water Tank Due to Drought

Severe drought in the Gedangsari district of Gunungkidul has forced residents to purchase clean water at prices reaching Rp 350,000 per 5,000-litre tank. The high cost is attributed to difficult terrain and long delivery distances, prompting local authorities to request emergency funds to sustain water distribution.

Halal Certification Mandatory by 18 October: Perspectives from Padang Restaurant and Warteg Owners Without Certification

As the deadline for mandatory halal certification approaches on 18 October 2026, food business owners in Jakarta are struggling to complete the process. Challenges include difficulties in verifying the halal status of raw materials, such as meat sourced from local markets.

South Tangerang Transport Department to Remove 'Better Use Ride-Hailing' Sticker from Bus Stop

The South Tangerang Transport Department has announced plans to remove a viral sticker from the Legoso 1 bus stop that suggested passengers should use ride-hailing services instead. The department intends to replace the controversial message with more appropriate public service announcements, such as reminders to maintain cleanliness.

Transjakarta 'Sky Path' Service Disrupted Due to Broken-Down Truck

Transjakarta services on Corridor 13, specifically routes 13B and L13E, have been shortened to the JORR Bus Stop following a broken-down truck in South Jakarta. The incident caused significant traffic congestion, leading to travel times between Puri Beta and Petukangan reaching up to one hour.

Residents Sue PLN over Repeated Power Outages

Residents in Banjarmasin have filed a lawsuit against the state electricity company, PLN, following widespread and prolonged power outages since June 2026. The legal action seeks compensation for MSMEs and households facing significant economic losses, including spoiled goods and increased operational costs.

AAUI: Only 1%-5% of Disaster Risks are Covered by Insurance

The Indonesian General Insurance Association (AAUI) has highlighted a massive protection gap in Indonesia, where only 1% to 5% of natural disaster risks are currently insured. This lack of coverage leaves the majority of economic losses to be borne by the state, prompting calls for mandatory insurance policies and regional asset protection schemes.

Without Food Self-Sufficiency, Indonesian Rice Prices Could Hit Rp20,000/kg

The Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs, Zulkifli Hasan, has warned that rice prices in Indonesia could surge to Rp20,000 per kilogram if the nation fails to achieve food self-sufficiency. He highlighted the risks of heavy import dependency and the rising consumption of cheaper wheat alternatives as a consequence of high domestic rice costs.

TAUD Criticises Appeal Verdict for Soldiers Involved in Acid Attack on Andrie Yunus

The Advocacy for Democracy (TAUD) has condemned a military court's decision to overturn the dismissal of two soldiers involved in an acid attack on human rights activist Andrie Yunus. The advocacy group argues that the verdict reinforces military impunity and highlights the urgent need for military court reform in Indonesia.

Philippine Court Orders Arrest of Vice President Over Alleged Plot to Kill President

A Philippine court has issued an arrest warrant for Vice President Sara Duterte following allegations of serious threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and other officials. The case stems from claims that Duterte instructed a hitman to target the President in the event of her assassination.

Sharpening Creativity of Special Needs Students Through Betawi-themed Craft Arts

Fifty students from various special needs schools in Central Jakarta have participated in a 10-day craft training programme focused on Betawi culture. The initiative, organised by the Central Jakarta Culture Sub-department, aims to foster creativity and prepare students for upcoming disability-focused art exhibitions.

MPR: Accompany Competency Strengthening for Teachers with Equitable Distribution

The Deputy Speaker of the MPR, Lestari Moerdijat, has emphasised that improving teacher competence must be paired with equitable distribution across Indonesia to ensure quality education. She highlighted a national shortage of over 722,000 teachers and noted that current distribution remains heavily concentrated on Java.

Ministry of Environment Prioritises Waste-to-Energy Plants in Three High-Fiscal Regions

The Indonesian Ministry of Environment is prioritising the development of Waste-to-Energy (PSEL) plants in Bali, Bogor, and Bekasi due to their high fiscal capacity. These regions have demonstrated the financial ability to manage the significant investment and operational costs required for such advanced technology.

Pegadaian Launches 'Tenang Saja' Campaign to Boost Investment Interest

PT Pegadaian has introduced its 'Tenang Saja' (Rest Assured) campaign to promote gold investment and financial security. The initiative aims to engage a growing customer base, including Gen Z, by highlighting accessible digital services and gold-based investment products.

Gibran Visits Flood-Affected Schools in North Sumatra, Delivering Aid Including Books and Fans

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka visited SMA Negeri 1 Barus in North Sumatra to oversee post-disaster infrastructure recovery following recent flash floods. The visit included the distribution of educational supplies and highlighted a significant IDR 10.6 trillion increase in regional transfer funds for affected provinces.

Pertamina NRE drives development of biofuel, hydrogen, and conservation

Pertamina New & Renewable Energy (Pertamina NRE) has entered into six strategic agreements to advance biofuels, hydrogen energy, and forest conservation. These partnerships involve various domestic and international entities, aiming to accelerate Indonesia's clean energy transition and energy security.

Creative Economy Ministry states culture and creative economy are Indonesia's "the new mining"

The Minister of Creative Economy, Teuku Riefky Harsya, has identified the creative economy and culture sectors as Indonesia's new primary economic drivers. He emphasised the potential for film, animation, gaming, and music to serve as both economic engines and global soft power.

Attorney General's Office Seizes Luxury Watches and Foreign Currency Belonging to Dadan Hindayana

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has seized significant assets, including luxury watches and large sums of foreign currency, from the former Head of the National Nutrition Agency. The seizure is part of an investigation into alleged corruption regarding the management of the Free Nutritious Meal programme for the 2025-2026 period.

Ministry of Health seeks to include mental health services and daycare under BPJS coverage

The Indonesian Ministry of Health is pushing to expand BPJS Kesehatan coverage to include mental health services provided by clinical psychologists and psychiatrists, as well as elderly daycare. Deputy Health Minister Dante Saksono Harbuwono clarified that the government aims to broaden, rather than reduce, the scope of covered services.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs Handles Repatriation of Indonesian Citizen Killed in Hiroshima Work Accident

The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs is coordinating the repatriation of an Indonesian national who died following a workplace accident in Hiroshima, Japan. The victim, a participant in the Technical Intern Training Program, was fatally injured by a paint-making machine.

Ministry of Social Affairs finds indications of misuse of over 10,000 ID cards

The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs has identified potential misuse of more than 10,000 national identity cards (KTP) belonging to social assistance recipients. These documents are allegedly being used by unauthorised parties for various purposes, including opening bank accounts and purchasing assets.

Pramono considers proposal to increase Ragunan Zoo entrance fees

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has stated he will carefully consider a proposal from the Regional Legislative Council (DPRD) to raise entrance fees at Ragunan Zoo. While the proposal aims to improve animal care and services, the Governor emphasised that any adjustments must not place a financial burden on the public.

KAI records total passengers reaching 351 million up to August 2026

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI Group) has reported a 7.09 per cent increase in passenger numbers, reaching over 351 million between January and August 2026. The growth is driven by various services including KAI Commuter, LRT Jabodebek, and the Whoosh high-speed rail, with a significant portion of users relying on government-subsidised services.

1.4 Million Social Assistance Recipients Linked to Online Gambling, Government Seeks Clarification

The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs is investigating 1.4 million social assistance recipients identified as potential online gambling participants based on PPATK data. The government is conducting verification processes to ensure funds are used for their intended purposes and is also investigating Ministry employees involved in similar activities.

Baby Girl Found in Bag in Karawang Alley, Police Arrest Two Suspects

Police in Karawang, West Java, have arrested two suspects following the discovery of an abandoned baby girl inside a handbag. The infant was found by a local resident in an alleyway in East Karawang, and authorities are currently coordinating with social services and hospitals.

Ministry of Home Affairs states KDKMP to become integrated village economic centre

The Indonesian Ministry of Home Affairs has announced that the Merah Putih Village/Sub-district Cooperative (KDKMP) is designed to serve as an integrated economic hub rather than just a retail entity. The initiative aims to streamline distribution chains, control inflation, and create a synergy with the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme to boost village-level economies.

Gibran ensures construction of permanent housing to begin this September 2026

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has confirmed that the construction of permanent housing (huntap) for disaster victims will commence in September 2026. The announcement follows his visit to temporary shelters in South Tapanuli, North Sumatra, where he addressed the needs of residents displaced by floods and landslides.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Delivers Surprises and Listens to Consumer Feedback on National Customer Day

Pertamina Patra Niaga celebrated National Customer Day 2026 by engaging directly with customers across 54 cities through its 'Customer Smile, My Smile Too' programme. The initiative included direct interactions at petrol stations, special promotions for Bright Gas and fuel products, and a focus on gathering consumer feedback to improve service quality.

NTB Provincial Government to Relocate Sade Residents, Reconstruct Village in Collaboration with ITB and Unram

The West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) provincial government plans to relocate residents of the Sade Traditional Hamlet following a recent fire. The reconstruction project will involve experts from ITB and Unram to ensure the historical authenticity of the village is preserved while integrating modern safety infrastructure.

Global Crisis Alarms Sounding, Economists Issue Warning to Indonesia

Economists are warning that rising global government bond yields could trigger economic instability by increasing capital costs and fiscal burdens. While the current situation is not yet comparable to the 1998 or 2008 crises, Indonesia faces risks from higher borrowing costs and potential imported inflation.

Observer: Constitutional Court ruling on internet quota guarantees consumer rights

Telecommunications expert Heru Sutadi has praised the Constitutional Court's decision regarding unused internet quotas, noting it ensures consumers receive the full value of their paid services. The ruling prevents providers from unilaterally expiring unused data, offering consumers more protection and choice in how remaining quotas are managed.

BTN Awaiting BP Tapera Regulations to Execute 40-Year Mortgage Tenures

PT Bank Tabungan Negara (Persero) Tbk is prepared to implement mortgage schemes with tenures of up to 40 years, pending the release of implementing regulations from BP Tapera. The initiative aims to reduce monthly instalments and boost public purchasing power for first-time homebuyers.

PGE prepares baseload electricity supply for Green Data Centres

PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy Tbk (PGE) is preparing to utilise geothermal energy as a reliable, renewable baseload power source to support Indonesia's growing data centre and AI ecosystem. The initiative aims to provide the stable and clean electricity required for digital transformation through pilot projects in West Java.

Youth Organisation Strengthens Consolidation Through National Leadership Meeting

The Central Leadership of the Indonesian Renewal Youth (DPP AMPI) is set to hold a National Leadership Meeting (Rapimnas) in Jakarta to align organisational strategies. The meeting, held in collaboration with the Golkar Party, aims to prepare for upcoming national political agendas and the organisation's National Congress.

Jambi Disaster Management Agency constructs water reservoirs to tackle forest and land fires

The Jambi Provincial Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) is utilising heavy machinery to create water reservoirs in Muaro Jambi to combat peatland fires. The initiative involves using excavators from nearby companies to ensure a steady water supply for firefighting efforts.

TP PKK Chairperson Visits SMAN 2 Ternate, Emphasising the Importance of Healthy Living

Tri Tito Karnavian, Chairperson of the TP PKK, visited SMAN 2 Ternate to promote healthy lifestyles and character building among students. The visit included health screenings, distribution of basic necessities, and advice on avoiding drugs and smoking.

26,247 KJP Recipients Undergoing Re-verification, Some Found Owning Cars and Properties Worth Over Rp 1 Billion

The Governor of Jakarta, Pramono Anung, has announced a re-verification process for over 26,000 Jakarta Smart Card (KJP) recipients following data discrepancies. Investigations revealed that some recipients, originally classified as low-income, possess luxury assets such as cars and high-value property, as well as family members serving as civil servants.

Pramono Issues Jakarta Regulation on RSUD Tariffs; Wealthy Residents to Lose Subsidies

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has issued Governor Regulation Number 17 of 2026 to adjust healthcare service fees at regional public hospitals (RSUD). The policy aims to ensure that government subsidies are not utilised by wealthy residents, while maintaining free services for BPJS Kesehatan holders.

Specifications and Camera Features of Xiaomi 18 Fold: Featuring 200MP Leica Summilux Lens

Leaked specifications suggest the upcoming Xiaomi 18 Fold will feature a massive 200MP sensor paired with Leica Summilux optics. The device aims to revolutionise the foldable smartphone market by overcoming traditional hardware limitations in photography.

Prabowo States Russian Aluminium Giant to Invest Heavily in Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto has announced that the Russian aluminium giant, Rusal, is set to undertake large-scale investments in Indonesia. The President also highlighted opportunities for Russian firms to participate in Indonesia's 138 oil and gas blocks and noted a new partnership for urea fertiliser production.

Open Network Incorporates as Digital Public Infrastructure to Upend E-Commerce With Google Backing

PT Indonesia Open Network (ION) has officially incorporated to develop a nationwide digital public infrastructure aimed at connecting 64.2 million MSMEs to digital markets. The initiative seeks to dismantle e-commerce monopolies through an open-network architecture and has already secured a $1.5 million grant from Google.

PT ION Officially Established to Serve as 'Digital Public Infrastructure'

PT Indonesia Open Network (ION) has been formally established to develop digital public infrastructure aimed at boosting digital trade and MSME competitiveness in Indonesia. The company aims to secure an initial investment of US$100 million from various global and domestic partners to build an open, independent digital ecosystem.

Development of 100 GWp Solar Power Projected to Unlock Nearly US$73 Billion in Investment Opportunities

The Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, in collaboration with the Global Green Growth Institute, is focusing on converting renewable energy potential into actionable investment projects. The initiative aims to support the 100 GWp solar power programme by enhancing regional readiness and connecting national policies with local implementation.

Army Chief of Staff: Lake Bagendit cleaning efforts to continue

The Indonesian Army Chief of Staff, General Maruli Simanjuntak, has announced that the cleaning operations for Lake Bagendit in Garut will continue and undergo evaluation. The initiative aims to restore the lake's ecosystem to support local tourism, small businesses, and water security for surrounding agricultural lands.

Visiting Jokowi in Solo, PM Xanana: We Are Impressed by His Vision to Build Outside Java

Timor-Leste Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão met with Indonesia's 7th President, Joko Widodo, in Solo to discuss regional development. Gusmão praised Indonesia's strategy of decentralised development, noting that the focus on infrastructure outside Java serves as an inspiration for Timor-Leste.

DJP Provides Tax Relief in NTT Following Natural Disaster; Full Regulations Detailed

The Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has announced tax administration relaxations for taxpayers in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) following recent earthquake disasters. The policy includes the waiver of administrative sanctions and extensions for various tax obligations to alleviate the burden on affected residents.

NASA Reveals Why Forest Fires in Indonesia are Difficult to Extinguish

NASA has identified that Indonesia's peatland fires are particularly challenging to combat because they burn at low temperatures beneath thick layers of peat. The agency warns that these fires release significantly higher levels of pollutants compared to tropical forest fires, exacerbated by the current El Niño phenomenon.