Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 7 September 2026

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To Mark Customer Day, Pertamina Distributes 8,100 Food Portions at Petrol Stations

Pertamina Patra Niaga celebrated National Customer Day 2026 by distributing 8,100 portions of Ayam Kecap Rempah Nusantara to customers and the public. The simultaneous cooking event took place in eight cities, with the main celebration at Plaza Timur Gelora Bung Karno in Jakarta. The activity also formed part of the Bright Gas Cooking Competition 2026 and attempted to set an Indonesian record (MURI).

Government Yet to Collect Excise on Sweetened Drinks – Why?

The government has not executed the planned excise duty on packaged sweetened beverages (MBDK), despite a Rp 7.6 trillion target in the 2026 state budget and Rp 1.6 trillion in the 2027 draft budget. Officials say they are still awaiting direct instructions from Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, who has indicated new levies will only proceed once economic growth exceeds 6%.

Creative Economy Ministry pushes local brands to compete in premium districts

The Ministry of Creative Economy is encouraging local creative economy players and MSMEs to expand into premium locations such as SCBD Park through events like The Local Market ID: Pasar Wiwitan SCBD. Deputy Minister Irene Umar said fashion, crafts and culinary products form the backbone of Indonesia's creative economy, with major export values recorded between January and April 2026.

Agrarian Reform Special Committee Receives 3,401 Land Complaints in One Month

The Jakarta Regional Parliament's special committee on agrarian reform has received 3,401 land complaints through its public post within a month. The committee is coordinating with the National Land Agency on certifications, land redistribution potentials, and the handover of 111 PTSL land certificates by Governor Pramono Anung.

Umrah agencies urged to mitigate impact of Mount Anak Krakatau ash on pilgrims

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has called on all umrah travel associations (PPIU) to take mitigation measures and support pilgrims affected by volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau, which has halted flights at Soekarno-Hatta Airport since 6 September. Pilgrims facing departure or return delays must be provided with accommodation, meals, transport and continuous assistance. The ministry is coordinating with the Ministry of Transport, airlines and Saudi service providers to monitor the situation and ensure no pilgrim loses support.

Three Volcanoes Erupt Today: Mount Ibu, Semeru and Ili Lewotolok

At least three Indonesian volcanoes erupted on the same day: Mount Ibu in North Maluku, Mount Ili Lewotolok in East Nusa Tenggara, and Mount Semeru in East Java. The Centre for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) reported ash columns reaching up to 600 metres above the summits. The events highlight ongoing volcanic activity monitored by the government agency across three regions.

China Shock 2.0: China's Industrial Machine Cannot Stop

China's massive production capacity, coupled with weak domestic consumption, is flooding global markets with cheap goods and pushing world trade defences to their limits. Michael Froman of the Council on Foreign Relations warns that China's export-led growth model faces a dead end as the US, EU and others raise tariffs and protectionist barriers. Nearly a third of Chinese industrial firms are loss-making, caught between overcapacity at home and shrinking access to foreign markets.

Indonesian Lung Doctors' Association Responds to Claims N95 Masks Effectively Block Volcanic Ash

The Indonesian Society of Respirology (PDPI) has commented on claims that N95 masks are effective against volcanic ash, stating that any mask offers better protection than none at all. Dr Feni Fitriani Taufik noted that N95 masks provide maximum protection as they prevent leakage between the mask and the cheeks. She advised the public to limit outdoor activities, protect their eyes, and wash ash-exposed clothing separately, warning that vulnerable groups face higher risks of serious health effects.

166,000 Passengers Affected as Anak Krakatau Eruption Shuts Soekarno-Hatta

The eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau forced the closure of Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, disrupting 1,039 flights — including 746 domestic, 272 international and 21 cargo services — and affecting more than 166,000 passengers. The airport activated its Service Recovery Activation protocol, providing meals, hotel transfers and free InJourney buses to Yogyakarta, Solo, Semarang and Surabaya, with operations set to resume gradually as volcanic ash conditions allow.

At It Again: Trump Proposes Renaming New Mexico to 'New America'

US President Donald Trump has proposed renaming the state of New Mexico to 'New America', days after signing an executive order to rename Lake Ontario as 'Lake America' amid a trade war with Canada. New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham flatly rejected the idea, calling the state's name non-negotiable and accusing Trump of distracting Americans from problems such as rising fuel prices.

List of Regions Enforcing Distance Learning Following Volcanic Ash from Mount Anak Krakatau

Several regions across Indonesia have ordered school closures and distance learning after the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait spread volcanic ash. DKI Jakarta, Banten, parts of West Java and Lampung Province have all implemented learning-from-home policies of varying durations to protect pupils. Authorities say the measures will be reviewed based on air quality indices and the spread of volcanic ash.

Bandar Lampung Blanketed by Volcanic Ash from Anak Krakatau Eruption

Areas of Lampung Province west of Mount Anak Krakatau have been affected by volcanic ash following the volcano's eruption in the Sunda Strait, which began on 5 September 2026 and continued into Monday morning. Ashfall has been reported in Bandar Lampung, some 80 kilometres from the volcano, as well as in Natar district and Sangiang Island. Residents have been advised to remain indoors and use protective equipment when going outside.

Closure of Four Airports Extended Until 18.00 WIB, InJourney Airports Responds

Four airports affected by volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau — Soekarno-Hatta, Halim Perdanakusuma, Husein Sastranegara and Radin Inten II — remained closed until around 18.00 WIB on Monday. InJourney Airports activated its Service Recovery programme, providing meals, terminal assistance and free buses to Yogyakarta, Solo, Semarang and Surabaya. Some 2,300 flights and 268,539 passengers have been affected since 5 September.

Eight Airports Closed, Transport Minister: Safety Is the Top Priority

Indonesia's Minister of Transportation, Dudy Purwagandhi, has extended the closure of eight airports affected by volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau until 7 September 2026 at 09.00 WIB, citing flight safety. The ministry is monitoring ash dispersion with paper tests every 30 minutes at all affected airports. Aircraft will undergo thorough engine inspections before resuming operations.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Distributes 8,100 Meal Portions on Customer Day

Pertamina Patra Niaga marked National Customer Day 2026 with a simultaneous cooking event across eight Indonesian cities, distributing 8,100 free meal portions. The event, part of the Bright Gas Cooking Competition 2026, also earned an Indonesian Museum of Records (MURI) accolade. Meals were cooked with Bright Gas by customers, MSMEs and communities, then distributed via fuel stations, orphanages and social institutions.

Lampung Airport Closed, This Is the Condition of the Bakauheni-Merak Crossing

Radin Inten II Airport in Lampung has been closed following the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau, whose activity rose to Level III (alert) status. Stranded passengers heading to Jakarta have switched to sea crossings from Bakauheni to Merak, with traffic on the Trans-Sumatra Toll Road noticeably busier but flowing smoothly.

Indonesia Says Anak Krakatau's 25-Hour Continuous Eruption Has Ended

Indonesia's Geological Agency under the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has reported that Anak Krakatau's 25-hour continuous eruption in the Sunda Strait ended on 6 September, with activity returning to Strombolian-type eruptions. The volcano's status remains at Level III (Siaga), and the public is warned to stay clear of a three-kilometre danger radius whilst coastal residents in Banten and Lampung are urged to remain calm and disregard tsunami rumours.

Airports Closed: The Serious Effects of Volcanic Ash on Aircraft Engines

Four airports operated by PT Angkasa Pura Indonesia (InJourney Airports) remain closed until 18.00 WIB on 7 September 2026 following renewed eruptions of Mount Anak Krakatau. According to the US Geological Survey, volcanic ash can cause severe engine damage, including compressor erosion, glass deposits, and in-flight engine failure.

Ministry of Social Affairs Halts Aid Disbursement for 1,400 Beneficiary Families Suspected of Online Gambling

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs has temporarily suspended social assistance payments to more than 1,400 beneficiary families suspected of involvement in online gambling transactions. Minister Saifullah Yusuf said third-quarter disbursement of PKH and food assistance has exceeded 80 per cent of the 18.3 million household quota, with affected families given the chance to contest the findings through village heads and local governments.

FKS Food Revives the Stories Behind Its Legendary Brands

FKS Food, part of FKS Group, is launching the 'Legendary Chefs – Unlock the Legend' campaign at Summarecon Mall Serpong from 4–6 September 2026 to showcase the stories behind its long-standing brands. The campaign pairs legendary products such as Taro, Mie KremezZ and Tanam Jagung with professional chefs to engage consumers and culinary businesses alike.

South Lampung Fire Service Sprays Volcanic Ash on Affected Facilities

Fire and Rescue Service personnel in South Lampung Regency have been spraying volcanic ash from public facilities affected by Mount Anak Krakatau's activity. Around six schools have so far been treated, with the number expected to rise as reports come in from residents. The volcano has erupted repeatedly since 4 September, sending lava fountains 100 to 400 metres high and ash columns up to 14.6 kilometres above sea level.

Government Draws New Loans, Indonesia's Forex Reserves Rise to US$146.5 Billion

Bank Indonesia reported that the country's foreign exchange reserves stood at US$146.5 billion at the end of August 2026, up from US$145.3 billion in July. The increase was driven by tax and services receipts as well as new government external borrowing, despite ongoing rupiah stabilisation measures. BI said the reserves remain well above the international adequacy standard of about three months of imports.

Ministry of Transmigration: Drones Cut Farmers' Spraying Costs in Merauke by 90 Per Cent

The Ministry of Transmigration says the use of agricultural drones in the Salor Transmigration Area of Merauke, South Papua, has cut spraying costs by 90 per cent, from around Rp170,000 to Rp17,000 per hectare. The drones, owned by farmer groups and supported by IPB University's Patriot Expedition team, also reduce spraying time from four hours to twenty minutes. The ministry plans to expand the technology across Indonesia's transmigration areas.

Marking National Customer Day, Pertagas Strengthens Services and Energy Infrastructure

PT Pertamina Gas (Pertagas) has marked National Customer Day 2026 by reaffirming its commitment to service quality and energy infrastructure reliability. The company's Customer Satisfaction Index rose 2.53% to 4.46, placing it in the Very Satisfied category, whilst it transported 1,606 MMSCFD of natural gas and 151,881 BOPD of crude oil in the first half of 2026.

Adhi Karya Books New Contracts Up 118% to Rp8.3 Trillion

State-owned contractor PT Adhi Karya (Persero) Tbk booked Rp8.3 trillion in new contracts up to July 2026, an increase of 118.4% year-on-year from Rp3.8 trillion. Some 70% of the contracts came from government projects, with infrastructure works accounting for 80% of the total.

Ministry of Social Affairs Probes Suspected Staff Use of Ministry Funds for Online Gambling

The Ministry of Social Affairs is investigating indications that some of its employees used ministry budget funds for online gambling transactions. Minister Saifullah Yusuf, known as Gus Ipul, cited PPATK findings that around 1,900 employees at central and regional level were implicated, and vowed zero tolerance, with dishonourable dismissal threatened for proven offenders.

Poll: Independent US Voters Increasingly Lean Towards Democrats

Gallup's latest quarterly political affiliation data shows independent US voters shifting towards the Democratic Party ahead of November's midterm elections, with 49 per cent favouring the Democrats against 39 per cent for the Republicans. The Democratic advantage is the largest since 2008, as President Trump's approval ratings decline amid inflation above the Federal Reserve's 2 per cent target and tensions in the Middle East.

From Kie Raha to Jakarta: North Maluku Provincial Government Opens the Way for New Entrepreneurs and SMEs to Move Up

The North Maluku provincial government, through its Industry and Trade Office, is helping local new entrepreneurs (WUB) and small and medium industries (IKM) gain wider market access by facilitating their participation in the Tjipta UMKM Fair organised by Sinar Mas in Jakarta. Governor Sherly Tjoanda visited the province's booths on the fair's second day, reaffirming the regional government's commitment to expanding promotional and networking opportunities for local products. Four local businesses showcased signature North Maluku products including kenari nuts, sago, coffee, spices and clove oil.

Seven Airports Closed Due to Mount Anak Krakatau Ash, Including Soetta and Halim

Seven airports across Java and Sumatra, including Soekarno-Hatta and Halim Perdanakusuma, remained closed as volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau spread through Indonesian airspace. AirNav Indonesia extended the closures until an estimated 18.00 WIB on 7 September 2026, citing flight safety mitigation. Pagar Alam/Atung Bungsu Airport in South Sumatra has reopened.

OPEC+ postpones oil output increase for October 2026

OPEC and its allies, collectively known as OPEC+, have decided to suspend their planned oil output increase for October 2026 following a virtual meeting of member countries. The eight participating nations, including Saudi Arabia and Russia, will maintain September production levels and are due to meet again on 4 October to review market conditions.

Henan Cultural Tourism Promotion Conference and Heluo Culture Exhibition Held in Indonesia

The Henan Cultural Tourism Promotion Conference and Heluo Culture Exhibition took place in Bandung on 3 September, drawing more than 100 Indonesian government officials, businesspeople, media representatives and cultural bodies. The event introduced five specially designed tourist routes for Indonesian travellers and concluded with cooperation agreements. Pop-up cultural activities were also staged across Jakarta and Bandung from 1–3 September.

Indonesian Stocks Swing After Higher Open as Fed, Geopolitical Risks Loom

Indonesian shares opened higher on Monday but turned volatile as investors weighed US monetary policy, geopolitical tensions and potential trade disruptions. The Jakarta Composite Index rose 0.24% to 6,652 at the open, with brokers citing upcoming US Treasury buyback details, August CPI data and the Fed's September meeting as key catalysts. Domestic factors, including the Anak Krakatau eruption and the government's SOE restructuring — closing 290 companies for around Rp 50 trillion in savings — also weighed on market sentiment.

Rubbish Burning Causes 85-Hectare Forest and Land Fire in Meranti, One Man Arrested

Police in the Meranti Islands Regency, Riau, have named a suspect over a forest and land fire that scorched 85 hectares in Rangsang District. The fire began when the man burnt rubbish on his areca palm plantation without properly extinguishing it, and strong winds caused the flames to spread. He now faces charges under the Forestry Law as amended by the Job Creation Legislation.

Batam Tourism Growth: 143,523 Foreign Visitors Arrive in July 2026

Batam recorded 143,523 international tourist arrivals in July 2026, a 16.19 percent rise year-on-year, accounting for nearly 80 percent of all foreign visits to the Riau Islands. From January to July, the city welcomed 964,457 foreign visitors, with Singapore and Malaysia remaining the dominant source markets. Local authorities are now encouraging longer stays and broader activity participation to boost hospitality businesses, MSMEs and the creative economy.

Gold Prices Fall Again, Now Rp2.63 Million per Gram

The price of Antam gold fell by Rp3,000 to Rp2,637,000 per gram in Jakarta on Monday, with the buyback price also declining to Rp2,490,000 per gram. Prices are subject to change at any time, and buyback transactions above Rp10 million are subject to a 1.5 per cent income tax under Article 22.

Civil Servant Payroll Moves to Himbara Banks: Deposit Insurance Agency Reveals Impact on Regional Development Banks

Indonesia's Deposit Insurance Agency (LPS) has warned that regional development banks (BPD) will face significant challenges if the government proceeds with moving civil servant (ASN) payroll accounts to Himbara banks. LPS Commissioner Doddy Zulverdi said the shift could be a catalyst for BPDs to diversify funding and become more competitive, but urged a gradual transition. He noted BPDs hold liquid assets such as government securities as a buffer against liquidity pressures.

Long Eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau Ends, Geological Agency Reveals Lurking Threats

The Geological Agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has confirmed that the continuous eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait has ended after roughly 25 hours. The volcano has now returned to Strombolian eruption characteristics, though the alert status remains at Level III and the risk of follow-up eruptions is still high.

PGN Batam records 1,868 household customers supplied with natural gas

PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (PGN) Batam has connected 1,868 household customers to its natural gas network so far in 2026, towards a target of 10,000 house connections (SR) this year. Including last year's 3,788 connections, a total of 5,656 households in Batam now receive gas, with supply sourced from Sumatran fields via the Grissik-Singapore transmission pipeline.

Indonesia opens 5 alternative airports as Krakatau ash closes 8 hubs

Mount Anak Krakatau's volcanic ash eruption has forced the closure of eight Indonesian airports, including Soekarno-Hatta in Tangerang, prompting the government to open five alternative hubs across Java. Airports such as Kertajati, Semarang's Ahmad Yani, Juanda, Yogyakarta International, and Adi Soemarmo in Solo are operating 24 hours to accommodate diverted flights. The Transportation Ministry and InJourney Airports are providing free train and bus transfers to move stranded passengers to the alternative facilities.

Airports Closed, Malaysians Stranded After Watching Kahitna Concert

The eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau, spewing volcanic ash since Friday, forced six Indonesian airports to halt operations, triggering mass flight cancellations. Among those stranded were Malaysian nationals, some travelling home after a Kahitna concert in Jakarta, who face airfares tripling in price and extended hotel stays.

Geological Agency: Continuous Eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau Has Ended

The Geological Agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has declared that the continuous eruption episode of Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait has ended after lasting 25 hours. Volcanic activity has returned to Strombolian eruption characteristics, though the probability of follow-up eruptions remains high, and the public is urged to stay outside a three-kilometre danger radius.

Rupiah Weakens Amid Middle East Geopolitical Tensions

The rupiah slipped 4 points to Rp17,646 against the US dollar at Monday's opening trade, pressured by escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Analysts said rising oil prices and a stronger dollar index, alongside firm US labour data boosting Federal Reserve rate hike expectations, weighed on the currency.

NPD Contradicts Quranic Ethics and Islam as a Blessing for All Creation

Journalist Fuji Eka Permana examines Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) not merely as a psychological condition but as a behavioural pattern that clashes with the Islamic ideal of rahmatan lil alamin. Drawing on clinical descriptions by Paul M.G. Emmelkamp and Katharina Meyerbroker, the piece argues that traits such as grandiosity, entitlement and lack of empathy amount to arrogance, a quality Islam condemns.

Weighing al-Albani's Authority and the Future of Hadith Criticism in the Social Media Era

This opinion piece by Fahmi Salim examines the renewed debate over whether Muhammad Nashiruddin al-Albani (1914–1999) should be titled a muhaddith or merely a researcher of hadith. The author argues the question is methodological rather than a matter of labels, and situates al-Albani as a revitaliser of the classical hadith verification tradition for the modern era. The piece draws particular relevance to today's digital environment, where viral circulation is no guarantee of authenticity.

Asia Aflame: Rupiah and Ringgit Fall, Four Currencies Survive

Asian currencies traded mixed against the US dollar at the start of the week, with the rupiah slipping 0.11% to Rp17,659/US$ and the ringgit falling 0.10%. Only four of ten regional currencies strengthened, led by the Taiwan dollar, as the US dollar remained under pressure despite rising expectations of a Federal Reserve rate hike this month. Traders are now awaiting US inflation data due on Friday, which will be a key determinant ahead of the Fed's policy meeting.

Russia operates amphibious aircraft to help tackle wildfires in Turkey

Russia deployed a Be-200ChS amphibious aircraft to Turkey for 45 days from early July to mid-August to assist with forest and land fire suppression. The aircraft completed 28 sorties, including three flights in a single day over Izmir Province, dropping 230 tonnes of water. The deployment followed an order from President Vladimir Putin in response to a request for assistance from the Turkish government.

Apple may name its foldable phone the iPhone Duo

Fresh rumours suggest Apple's first foldable iPhone, widely referred to as the iPhone Ultra, could instead launch under the name iPhone Duo. The name would echo Apple's historical products such as the PowerBook Duo and MagSafe Duo charger, though it carries risks given Microsoft's ill-fated Surface Duo. Analysts still consider iPhone Ultra the most likely name, positioning the device above the Pro models ahead of its expected debut alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max.

TBS Energi (TOBA) Becomes First Green Transition Share Issued by IDX

PT TBS Energi Utama Tbk (TOBA) has become the first Indonesian company to receive the Green Equity Transition designation from the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX), effective 28 August 2026. The designation, based on audited 2025 financials, reflects TOBA's measurable shift towards a low-carbon economy, with sustainable infrastructure revenue rising to 66.5% of consolidated revenue in the first half of 2026. Fewer than 20 listed companies worldwide currently hold such a designation.

National Police Greet Passengers and Hand Out Snacks at Soekarno-Hatta Airport

National Police personnel, together with stakeholders, monitored passenger activity at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Tangerang on Sunday morning (6/9), greeting travellers and distributing snacks and drinks. Officers reported that conditions at the Terminal 2 check-in area remained safe and orderly, while the public can seek police assistance via the 110 call centre, available around the clock.

Latest List of Avtur Fuel Prices at Airports, Effective 7 September 2026

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga raised aviation fuel (avtur) prices at a number of Indonesian airports effective 1 September 2026. At Soekarno-Hatta's Aviation Fuel Terminal, the price rose from Rp21,102 to Rp22,471 per litre, with similar increases at other busy airports. The full list covers the ten busiest airports for domestic flights during September 2026.