Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 8 September 2026

Showing 101-150 of 1,696 articles

Optimistic About Business Fundamentals, Bank Mandiri Distributes Rp6.16 Trillion Interim Dividend

Bank Mandiri has announced an interim dividend of Rp66 per share, totalling approximately Rp6.16 trillion, reflecting management's confidence in the bank's business fundamentals. This distribution brings the bank's total dividend for the 2026 calendar year to roughly Rp50.63 trillion.

Asset Recovery Agency Deposits Rp26 Trillion into State Treasury in Three Years

The Attorney General's Office Asset Recovery Agency (BPA) has successfully returned Rp26.04 trillion to the state treasury through the management and auction of seized assets. Despite this significant achievement, the agency faces several structural and regulatory hurdles, including legal discrepancies and high auction reserve prices.

Telkomsel introduces Halo Optima postpaid packages with large data quotas

Telkomsel has launched its updated Halo Optima postpaid service, offering significantly larger internet quotas and increased call and SMS allocations. The new packages are designed to meet evolving digital needs by integrating premium digital subscriptions such as Netflix and Spotify into their service ecosystem.

Minister urges early detection to prevent human trafficking

The head of the human trafficking prevention task force has called for enhanced early detection measures to combat increasingly diverse trafficking methods, including online scams. The Minister emphasised the need for a national interoperable database to improve data integration across government agencies and better protect potential victims.

Agriculture Minister Amran Achieves Best Performance in Cabinet According to IndexPolitica Indonesia

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has secured the highest performance score among Red and White Cabinet ministers, according to a recent assessment by IndexPolitica Indonesia. The evaluation highlights significant achievements in national food production, including record-breaking rice stocks and increased export values.

National Economy Soars 7.8%, Former Official Alleges Fake Data

Former Finance Secretary Subhash Garg has accused the Indian government of manipulating GDP figures to inflate economic growth. The allegations follow reports that India's actual growth may be as low as 2.6%, amidst growing concerns regarding the transparency of national economic statistics.

Bekasi Implements Distance Learning, National Nutrition Agency Temporarily Halts Free Nutritious Meal Distribution

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has suspended the distribution of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme in several regions due to the implementation of distance learning following the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau. In Bekasi, while food preparation continues, distribution is being adjusted to align with local government safety protocols and student learning conditions.

House of Representatives Urges Rapid Mitigation to Prevent Tourism Disruption

A member of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has called for strengthened volcanic eruption preparedness to protect the tourism sector from economic losses. The legislator emphasised that disruptions to connectivity, such as flight cancellations, create a ripple effect that impacts hotels, restaurants, and small businesses.

Poor Weather in Sunda Strait: Search for Five Missing Journalists Covering Anak Krakatau to Resume Tomorrow

Search operations for five journalists, including an Antara News photographer, who went missing in the Sunda Strait during the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau have been temporarily suspended due to severe weather. A joint task force involving the police, Basarnas, and the military is set to resume the search on Wednesday morning using specialised vessels.

Police Hunt Mastermind Behind Rp15 Billion Synthetic Tobacco Production in West Bandung

Police in West Bandung are pursuing an individual known as 'NM' following a major drug raid that uncovered 150 kilograms of synthetic tobacco. The operation led to the arrest of two brothers responsible for the large-scale production of the narcotics, which is estimated to be worth Rp15 billion.

Meeting Photo Between Maktour Boss and Former Religious Affairs Minister Revealed in Hajj Quota Trial

A photograph documenting a meeting between the former Minister of Religious Affairs, Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, and the CEO of PT Maktour, Fuad Hasan Masyhur, has surfaced during a corruption trial regarding Hajj quotas. The prosecution alleges the meeting was linked to arrangements for additional Hajj quotas involving various travel agencies.

West Jakarta Administration Conducts Water Mist Spraying in Kembangan

The West Jakarta City Government has deployed water mist spraying across the Kembangan area to mitigate the spread of volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau. The initiative aims to reduce the impact of ashfall on residents and maintain air quality in the capital.

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Demands Commitment from 26 Papuan Local Governments Regarding Second Phase of Special Autonomy Fund Disbursement

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Ribka Haluk has urged 26 local governments in Papua to complete their administrative requirements to avoid delays in the second phase of the 2026 Special Autonomy Fund. The central government has eased disbursement requirements, requiring only 50 per cent accountability of the first phase to facilitate the process.

DPR Hearing on B50: Parliament Urges Pertamina to Anticipate Logistic Bottlenecks

Commission XII of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has called on the government and PT Pertamina Patra Niaga to prepare for potential logistical bottlenecks ahead of the B50 biodiesel implementation. The commission emphasised the need for robust infrastructure, quality control, and strategic distribution planning to prevent fuel shortages or increased energy costs.

Adidas Advertisement Featuring Former IDF Soldier Sparks Calls for Boycott from Palestinian Doctor

A Palestinian medical professional, an alumnus of Airlangga University, has called for a global boycott of Adidas following an advertisement featuring a former Israeli soldier. The doctor argues that an apology is insufficient given the controversy surrounding the campaign's depiction of a veteran who lost a limb during the Israel-Gaza conflict.

BPKN: Task Force Needed to Resolve Frozen MSME Funds on Tokopedia and TikTok Shop

The National Consumer Protection Agency (BPKN) is calling for the formation of an E-commerce Task Force to address the freezing of funds belonging to MSME sellers on Tokopedia and TikTok Shop. The move aims to resolve ongoing disputes, enhance consumer protection, and implement better dispute resolution mechanisms within the digital trade ecosystem.

Pefindo Maintains Highest Rating; BTN Ensures Innovation and Strengthened Liquidity

PT Bank Tabungan Negara (Persero) Tbk (BTN) has successfully maintained its highest idAAA credit rating with a stable outlook from Pefindo. The rating reflects the bank's strong fundamentals, robust liquidity, and its strategic role in supporting government housing programmes.

Minister of Home Affairs Urges East Nusa Tenggara Local Governments to Promptly Meet Basic Needs of Citizens

The Minister of Home Affairs, Muhammad Tito Karnavian, has instructed local governments in East Nusa Tenggara to accelerate the distribution of disaster relief funds. The directive aims to ensure that residents affected by earthquakes and volcanic eruptions receive essential supplies, including food and clothing, while long-term housing reconstruction plans are finalised.

West Jakarta Police Set Up Nine Health Posts to Mitigate Impact of Ash Exposure

The West Jakarta Metropolitan Police have established nine health posts across strategic locations to assist citizens affected by volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau. In addition to medical assistance, authorities are deploying water cannons to spray major roads to prevent ash from becoming airborne.

Drone Infiltration into NATO Territory: The New Frontline of Hybrid Warfare in Europe

NATO airspace is increasingly facing unauthorised drone incursions, marking a rise in hybrid warfare tactics across Europe. Member states are now accelerating the deployment of advanced detection technologies and layered defence networks to counter these low-cost aerial threats.

Germany prepared to meet 3.5 per cent NATO defence spending target by 2029

German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil has announced that Germany is on track to reach the NATO defence spending target of 3.5 per cent of GDP by 2029. The increase in military expenditure is part of a broader rearmament programme aimed at maintaining peace and fulfilling alliance commitments.

KPK Raids Director's House in East Jakarta Over Rejang Lebong Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has conducted a search at the residence of PT Cahaya Mas Cemerlang Director, Eko Yusanto, in East Jakarta. The raid is part of an ongoing investigation into alleged bribery involving projects in Rejang Lebong Regency and Bengkulu City.

Antara Dispatches Special Team to Search for Five Journalists Missing in Sunda Strait

Antara News Agency has deployed a special task force to assist in the search for five photojournalists who lost contact while covering the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau. The agency is coordinating closely with Basarnas, the Banten Regional Police, and the TNI to locate the missing reporters.

Chairman of the DPD RI Supports Increased Budget for Disaster Mitigation

The Chairman of the Regional Representative Council (DPD RI), Sultan Baktiar Najamudin, has expressed support for President Prabowo Subianto's plan to significantly increase the disaster mitigation budget. He emphasised that disaster preparedness is crucial for national economic stability, given Indonesia's high vulnerability to natural disasters due to its location on the Ring of Fire.

Approximately 14,000 Umrah Pilgrims Affected by Airport Closure to Receive Rescheduled Flights

The Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah has confirmed that around 14,000 pilgrims affected by the recent closure of Soekarno-Hatta International Airport will have their departures rescheduled without additional costs. The government is ensuring that travel agencies and airlines fulfil their responsibilities to protect the rights of the pilgrims.

Japan to Build Cyber Defence Centre in Tokyo to Anticipate Threats

The Japanese government plans to establish a dedicated preventive cyber defence centre in Tokyo to bolster coordination against increasingly sophisticated cyber attacks. The facility aims to house various national security units to enhance real-time monitoring and neutralisation of hostile servers.

Bulog CEO: Bulog Ready to Distribute 1 Million Tonnes of SPHP Rice Until March 2027

Perum Bulog has announced its readiness to distribute an additional 1 million tonnes of SPHP rice to ensure food security through March 2027. This initiative aims to mitigate potential supply shortages during the year-end festive season and the upcoming lean months before the March harvest.

Sales of Pertamax Green 95 Surge by 267%

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has reported a significant 267% increase in the sales of Pertamax Green 95, a fuel blend containing 5% bioethanol, between early 2025 and August 2026. The company plans to expand the availability of this eco-friendly fuel beyond its current concentration in Java by coordinating with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources.

BKPM Encourages Automotive Manufacturers to Utilise Locally Made EV Batteries

The Indonesian Investment Ministry (BKPM) is urging the automotive industry to adopt domestically produced electric vehicle batteries following the commencement of operations at the IBC-CATL facility in Karawang. The government aims to build a robust industrial ecosystem that ensures local battery production can meet both domestic demand and export opportunities.

Police assist toddler falling ill after being stranded at Soekarno-Hatta Airport

Police personnel at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport provided medical assistance and support to a mother and her toddler who became stranded due to financial difficulties. The officers facilitated medical checks for the child and coordinated onward travel to North Sumatra.

Lawsuit Against Extension of National Police Chief Term Withdrawn; Observer: Police Chief Position is a Professional Career, Not Political

Political and legal analyst Boni Hargens has commented on the withdrawal of a Constitutional Court lawsuit regarding the extension of the National Police Chief's term. He argues that the position is a professional career path subject to retirement regulations rather than a fixed political term.

15 Regional Departments in NTB Fail to Return Rp 9 Billion BPK Audit Findings

Fifteen regional departments in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) have failed to repay Rp 9 billion in state funds identified during a BPK audit. The NTB Inspectorate has warned that failure to settle these arrears within ninety days will result in the matter being referred to law enforcement agencies.

METI: Certainty of Absorption and Pricing Crucial for Renewable Energy Investment

The Indonesian Renewable Energy Society (METI) has called for greater certainty regarding electricity absorption and pricing to enhance the bankability of renewable energy projects. The group is advocating for stronger legal foundations within the New and Renewable Energy Bill (RUU EBET) to attract the massive investments required for Indonesia's energy transition.

Record 695 Billion Ton Increase in Antarctic Ice: Scientists Discover the Trigger

Scientists have identified that warming in tropical oceans triggered a massive 695 billion tonne increase in East Antarctic ice mass between 2021 and 2023. The phenomenon was driven by atmospheric changes that directed heavy snowfall to the continent via atmospheric rivers.

Samsung Smartphone Price Update 8 September 2026: Galaxy S26 FE Officially Arrives

Samsung Indonesia has officially announced the launch of the Galaxy S26 FE, offering a high-performance alternative at a more accessible price point. The update includes a comprehensive price list for Samsung's current lineup, ranging from entry-level models to the premium Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra.

Indonesia to welcome three Japanese helicopters for wildfire response

Three Japanese CH-47 Chinook helicopters are scheduled to arrive in West Kalimantan to assist in wildfire containment operations. This deployment is part of the Defence Cooperation Agreement between Indonesia and Japan, aimed at enhancing disaster relief capabilities during the 2026 fire season.

WIKA Strengthens Coal Handling Infrastructure through PTBA Train Loading Station Project

WIKA is currently executing an Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Commissioning (EPCC) project for PTBA's Train Loading Station 6 & 7. Once completed in the third quarter of 2026, the project is expected to increase coal handling capacity by 20 million tonnes per year, significantly bolstering national energy logistics.

Purbaya Denies Public is Massively Depleting Savings

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has refuted claims that Indonesians are struggling financially to the point of exhausting their savings. He pointed to the double-digit growth in third-party funds (DPK) within the banking sector as evidence of increasing public deposits.

Coordinating Minister for Politics and Security Urges Strengthening Early Detection to Prevent Human Trafficking

The Coordinating Minister for Politics and Security has called for enhanced early detection and victim identification to combat the rising complexity of human trafficking. The initiative aims to dismantle trafficking networks and improve the protection of Indonesian citizens targeted by online scams and exploitation abroad.

Accelerate NTT Disaster Relief, Minister of Home Affairs Urges Local Governments to Act Immediately

The Indonesian Minister of Home Affairs, Tito Karnavian, has instructed local governments in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) to expedite the distribution of disaster relief funds. The directive aims to ensure that basic necessities for residents in evacuation centres are met following recent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Agriculture Minister Amran Achieves Best Performance in Red and White Cabinet

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has secured the highest performance score among ministers in the Red and White Cabinet, according to a recent assessment by IndexPolitica Indonesia. The evaluation, based on evidence-based metrics rather than public opinion, places Amran at the top of a list of ten high-performing ministers.

Lebak Bulus Terminal Management Urges Bus Passengers to Wear Masks

The management of Lebak Bulus Terminal in South Jakarta has initiated a mask distribution programme to protect passengers from volcanic ash and air pollution. Alongside masks, the terminal is providing mineral water to help prevent dehydration during the dry season.

Singapore PM's Salary Increase of S$1.4 Million to be Donated Over 5 Years

Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has announced his decision to donate the entirety of his salary increase to social causes for the next five years. The move follows a government review of political remuneration frameworks, which saw the Prime Minister's annual salary rise significantly.

ITDC Prepares Camping Grounds for MotoGP Mandalika 2026 Spectators

ITDC is introducing a new camping ground option at Kuta Beach Park, The Mandalika, to provide affordable accommodation for the 2026 MotoGP. The initiative aims to cater to spectators, particularly motorcyclists travelling from across Indonesia, by offering diverse lodging options including glamping and campervans.

12 European Nations to Impose Sanctions on Israeli Settlements in West Bank

A coalition of 12 nations, including the UK, France, and Canada, has announced plans to impose sanctions on trade involving Israeli settlements in the West Bank. The move follows escalating violence by settlers against Palestinian villages and aims to protect the possibility of a two-state solution.

National Nutrition Agency promotes eight good habits for teachers and students during free nutritious meal consumption

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has introduced eight recommended habits for students and teachers to follow during the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The initiative aims to foster a culture of healthy living, discipline, and food safety awareness within schools.

House in West Bandung Raided by Police, Containing 1.5 Quintals of Synthetic Tobacco Worth Rp15 Billion

Police have dismantled a synthetic tobacco production facility in West Bandung, seizing 150 kilograms of narcotics valued at approximately Rp15 billion. Two brothers have been arrested for operating the home industry, which supplied illegal markets across Java and Bali.

ANTARA strengthens coordination to search for five photojournalists who lost contact

ANTARA News Agency is intensifying coordination with Basarnas, the Banten Regional Police, and other authorities to locate five photojournalists missing during the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau. The search efforts are currently facing challenges due to high waves and limited visibility in the Sunda Strait.

Banten Regional Police Deploy Team to Search for Journalists Missing in Sunda Strait

Banten Regional Police and emergency services have launched a search operation for a group of journalists, including an ANTARA news photographer, who lost contact in the Sunda Strait. The search was temporarily halted due to severe weather conditions, including high waves and strong winds caused by the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau.

Remote Learning Seen to Protect Children, DPR Requests Adjusted Implementation Patterns

A member of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has suggested that while remote learning can protect student health during certain conditions, its long-term implementation requires structural adjustments. He warns that repeating the same patterns used during the COVID-19 pandemic could negatively impact student learning outcomes.