Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 8 September 2026

Showing 251-300 of 1,696 articles

Tourism Minister Urges Poltekpar Graduates to be Critical in Developing Tourism Sector

Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana has called on Politeknik Pariwisata (Poltekpar) graduates to embrace critical thinking and technological adaptability. She emphasised the importance of maintaining Indonesian identity while navigating the rapid digital transformations currently reshaping the global tourism landscape.

National 'Care for Neighbours' Movement: Social Affairs Minister Invites Citizens to Become Social Assistance Agents

Indonesia's Minister of Social Affairs, Saifullah Yusuf, has launched the National 'Care for Neighments' movement to assist eligible citizens who lack the digital literacy or documentation to register for social assistance. The initiative aims to utilise community members as 'Social Assistance Agents' to facilitate digital registration and ensure more accurate distribution of aid.

Sungrow Introduces MGTL Series, the Latest Innovation for Homes and Businesses

Global inverter and energy storage leader Sungrow has launched its next-generation MGTL Series three-phase hybrid inverter across Southeast Asia and other regions. The new series integrates solar power generation and energy storage to enhance energy resilience and efficiency for residential and commercial users.

Office in South Jakarta Suspected of Creating Fake Job Vacancies

Police in Pasar Minggu, South Jakarta, are investigating an office suspected of running a fraudulent job recruitment scheme by demanding upfront fees from applicants. While no formal police report has been filed, authorities are mediating to ensure victims are reimbursed for the money paid.

BMKG: No Sea Anomalies in Sunda Strait After Anak Krakatau Eruption

The Indonesian Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) has confirmed that the recent eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau has not triggered any abnormal sea level changes or tsunami risks in the Sunda Strait. In response to volcanic ash, BMKG, BNPB, and the Ministry of Transportation have initiated weather modification operations to disperse ash particles. Authorities have advised residents in affected areas to limit outdoor activities and use protective gear to mitigate health risks.

Airlangga: Potential for Zakat, Alms, Charity, and Waqf Reaches Rp 343 Trillion

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has highlighted that the potential for Islamic social finance, including zakat and waqf, could reach Rp 343 trillion. This reflects Indonesia's significant position as one of the top four global players in the Islamic economy.

Iran states US return to Islamabad MoU could reduce tensions

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has suggested that the United States' adherence to the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding could alleviate regional tensions. During a call with his Japanese counterpart, discussions also covered maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz and the importance of free navigation.

Nearing Completion, WIKA Reaches 97.37% Progress for Harapan Kita–Tokushukai Heart Hospital Project

PT Wijaya Karya (Persero) Tbk (WIKA) has announced that the construction of the Harapan Kita-Tokushukai Heart and Vascular Hospital in West Jakarta is 97.37% complete. The project is slated for completion by 23 October 2026 and aims to bolster Indonesia's cardiovascular healthcare capacity with international standards.

Yogyakarta Transport Department Clarifies Altercation in Lempuyangan Triggered by Motorcyclist Refusing Warning

The Yogyakarta City Transport Department has addressed a viral video showing an argument between officers and a motorcyclist in the Lempuyangan area. The incident occurred when officials attempted to warn a rider against driving against the flow of traffic, leading to a verbal dispute.

DTSEN Data Update: 4.3 Million New Beneficiaries Now Receiving Social Assistance

Following the implementation of the DTSEN database, over 4.3 million new families in the lowest wealth deciles have successfully accessed social assistance. The update, driven by a presidential instruction to consolidate national data, aims to ensure more precise and targeted distribution of government aid.

Minister of Religious Affairs: Economic Development Must Realise Social Justice

The Minister of Religious Affairs, Nasaruddin Umar, emphasised that economic growth must transcend mere statistics to focus on social welfare and job creation. He highlighted the need to address economic inequality, particularly the heavy concentration of economic activity in Java, by integrating Pancasila, Islamic, and conventional economic principles.

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Reminds Civil Servants of Exemplary Conduct and Official Trust

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Bima Arya Sugiarto has urged civil servants within the Ministry to embrace the values of integrity and exemplary leadership. Speaking during a Maulid Nabi commemoration, he emphasised that official positions are temporary and should be used solely for the service of the public.

Sri Lanka develops national strategy for drone technology

The Sri Lankan Ministry of Science and Technology is drafting a national strategy to standardise, test, and commercialise drone technology. The initiative aims to support the expanding use of drones across the agricultural, industrial, and environmental sectors.

Arab League Rejects Forced Displacement of Palestinians

Foreign ministers of the Arab League have formally rejected any attempts at the forced displacement of Palestinians, labelling such actions as ethnic cleansing. The council has called for urgent international intervention and the implementation of a ceasefire to facilitate the reconstruction of Gaza.

BMKG declares eight reopened airports safe from volcanic ash

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has confirmed that eight Indonesian airports have safely resumed operations following volcanic ash threats from Anak Krakatau. AirNav Indonesia has issued a Notice to Airmen to facilitate the gradual reopening of key hubs, including Soekarno-Hatta and Halim Perdanakusuma, after safety tests returned negative for ash exposure.

PTBA Accelerates Non-Coal Business Expansion, Analysts Advise Caution

State-owned mining company PT Bukit Asam Tbk (PTBA) is aggressively diversifying its portfolio beyond coal, aiming for non-coal products to contribute 20% of total revenue within four years. While long-term growth is expected from downstreaming and renewable energy, analysts suggest short-term performance remains heavily dependent on coal prices and logistics efficiency.

Operations Return to Normal, Soekarno-Hatta Airport Serves 113,000 Passengers After Two-Day Closure

Soekarno-Hatta International Airport has resumed normal operations following a two-day closure caused by volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau. On the first day of reopening, the airport handled 896 scheduled flights and approximately 113,000 passengers.

Govt ensures stable mask supply amid Mount Anak Krakatau ash fallout

The Indonesian Ministry of Health is monitoring mask supplies and prices following the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau to prevent hoarding and price gouging. Authorities have distributed over 100,000 respirators and medical supplies to affected regions in Lampung, Banten, West Java, and Jakarta.

Prosecutors Investigate Alleged Rp 28 Billion Grant Corruption at West Manggarai KPU

The West Manggarai District Attorney's Office has escalated its investigation into the alleged corruption of 2024 regional election grant funds at the West Manggarai General Elections Commission (KPU). The investigation, involving approximately Rp 28 billion, has moved to the formal inquiry stage, though no suspects have been named yet.

Profits Soar 445%, SMGR Reveals Strategy for This Year

PT Semen Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (SMGR) has reported a massive 445.9% increase in net profit for the first half of 2026. The company plans to leverage major government infrastructure projects, including the 3 million houses programme and the Giant Sea Wall, to drive further growth.

Customer Trust Drives BRI Fund Collection, Third-Party Funds Reach Rp1,580 Trillion

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk has reported a 6.7% year-on-year increase in third-party funds, reaching Rp1,580.7 trillion by the end of the second quarter of 2026. The bank's strategy focuses on strengthening its low-cost fund ratio (CASA) through digital transformation and expanded services like BRImo Taiwan.

Purbaya: Tax Crimes in Asset Forfeiture Bill Must Be Based on Justice

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has emphasised that the seizure of assets for tax-related crimes under the proposed Asset Forfeiture Bill must adhere to the principle of fairness. He cautioned that authorities must distinguish between intentional tax evasion and mere negligence to avoid penalising ordinary citizens.

Government Allocates Rp17 Trillion for Rice Assistance to 33.2 Million Low-Income Families

The Indonesian government has prepared a budget of Rp17 trillion to provide rice assistance to 33.2 million underprivileged families during the fourth quarter of 2026. This initiative follows direct instructions from President Prabowo Subianto to ensure social welfare through various aid programmes.

Reasons Depok Residents Prefer Professional Car Washes Following Volcanic Ashfall

Residents in Depok, West Java, are increasingly relying on professional steam car wash services to clean vehicles coated in volcanic ash from the Anak Krakatau eruption. Owners prefer high-pressure washing to prevent scratches and paint damage caused by the abrasive, acidic nature of the ash.

Ministry of Culture supports transformation of Sirukam traditional house into museum and library

The Indonesian Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, has expressed support for converting the Sirukam traditional house in West Sumatra into a museum and library. The initiative aims to preserve the literary legacy of Aman Datuk Madjoindo and promote local culture through school curricula.

Hartono Family Reported to Shift US$1.4 Billion Investment Abroad

The Hartono family has reportedly begun expanding their global asset portfolio with investments totalling approximately US$1.4 billion outside of Indonesia. This strategic shift follows a period of domestic concentration and coincides with broader trends of capital outflow among Indonesia's major tycoons.

Property Financing Rates Start from 3.3 Per Cent as Alam Sutera Partners with Several Banks

Alam Sutera Group has announced a partnership with various major Indonesian banks to offer special property financing rates starting from 3.3 per cent. The initiative, part of the Alam Sutera Group Expo 2026, aims to provide more accessible housing and investment options through reduced interest rates and waived administrative fees.

Government Prepares Housing Assistance for NTT Earthquake Victims up to Rp 70 Million

The Indonesian government has announced a financial aid package for residents in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) whose homes were damaged by recent earthquakes. The assistance, ranging from Rp 15 million to Rp 70 million, will be distributed based on the severity of the damage following a verification process by local authorities and BPS.

Coordinating Minister: National Internship Programme to Boost Productivity and Drive Economic Targets

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has highlighted the National Internship (MagangHub) programme as a strategic initiative to achieve a 6 per cent economic growth target. The government aims to enhance labour productivity by connecting university graduates with industrial needs through large-scale vocational training and internship schemes.

Attorney General's Office interrogates PT CNI Board Member regarding nickel corruption case

The Attorney General's Office is questioning members of the Board of Directors of PT Ceria Nugraha Indotama (CNI) as part of an investigation into nickel commodity governance corruption between 2017 and 2020. The case involves allegations of illegal nickel exports using fraudulent documents, resulting in an estimated state loss of Rp401.65 billion.

House of Representatives scrutinises US$10.1 billion oil and gas cost recovery for 2027

The Chairman of Commission XII of the House of Representatives has called on SKK Migas to justify the significant increase in oil and gas cost recovery for 2027. He expressed concern that rising operational reimbursements have not historically correlated with increased national oil and gas lifting.

Creator Economy Grows, 6 Million Creators Produce 400,000 Templates per Day

The creator economy is experiencing significant growth driven by digital technology and artificial intelligence. CapCut reports that over six million template creators are now producing more than 400,000 new templates daily across its global platform.

Tokopedia and TikTok Shop Explain Seller Balance Controversy to House of Representatives

Representatives from Tokopedia and TikTok Shop Shop appeared before the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) to address complaints regarding the withholding of seller funds. The platform clarified that the actual amount affected is significantly lower than previously reported, with many cases linked to fraud investigations.

DIY Regional Councillor Surprised to Find Name Listed in Decile 4: Never Received Social Assistance

Lisman Puja Kesuma, a member of the Yogyakarta Special Region (DIY) Regional House of Representatives, expressed shock after discovering his name is listed in the fourth decile of the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN). He maintains that he has never applied for or received any social assistance and believes the error stems from outdated information.

METI proposes special agency to oversee renewable energy project implementation

The Indonesian Renewable Energy Community (METI) has proposed the establishment of a dedicated agency to manage new and renewable energy projects from planning to operation. The proposal aims to streamline cross-sectoral coordination between various ministries and agencies to ensure energy targets are met.

Jakarta LRT Velodrome-Manggarai Phase 1B to Undergo Trial Run with Rp 8 Fare

The Jakarta Provincial Government is preparing for trial runs of the Jakarta LRT Phase 1B (Velodrome-Manggarai) ahead of its official inauguration by President Prabowo Subianto. During this trial period, a special promotional fare of just Rp 8 will be implemented for all passengers.

Deputy Environment Minister Targets Completion of Galuga Landfill Fire Extinguishment Within Two Days

The Deputy Minister of Environment, Diaz Hendropriyono, aims to fully extinguish the fire at the Galuga Landfill in Bogor within a maximum of two days. While surface flames are under control, authorities are focusing on cooling internal hotspots using water bombing and heavy machinery.

Jakarta promotes urban tourism to Indian travellers at ITB 2026

The Jakarta Tourism and Creative Economy Office participated in ITB India 2026 to strengthen business-to-business engagements and promote the capital as a premium urban destination. The initiative aims to foster lasting relations with the Indian tourism industry and expand Jakarta's global network to support its goal of becoming one of the world's top 50 cities by 2030.

Adidas Apologises After Featuring Former Israeli Soldier in Shoe Advertisement

German sportswear giant Adidas has issued an apology following backlash over an advertisement featuring a former Israeli soldier. The campaign, intended to promote inclusivity for amputees, sparked widespread criticism and boycott calls from pro-Palestinian groups and activists.

Flights Reopened: Central Java Ready to Welcome National MTQ Delegation

Central Java authorities are preparing for the arrival of participants for the 31st National Musabaqah Tilawatil Qur'an (MTQ) in 2026. Despite recent flight disruptions caused by volcanic activity, the provincial government has coordinated with Garuda Indonesia to establish alternative routes and ensure smooth transportation.

First Half 2026 Performance Grows Double Digits, Medela (MDLA) Adds Five New Principals

PT Medela Potentia Tbk (MDLA) has reported a strong performance for the first half of 2026, with sales increasing by 10.1% to Rp 8.2 trillion. The company is driving this growth through the addition of five new principals and the expansion of its distribution and manufacturing capabilities.

Purbaya: Free Nutritious Meal Programme Budget Absorption Maximum of Rp240 Trillion

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has announced that the budget for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme is expected to reach a maximum of Rp240 trillion this year. The government is actively monitoring the programme's implementation through the Directorate General of Treasury to ensure funds are used effectively.

Malaysian Companies Involved in Indonesian Haze? This is Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's Response

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has addressed concerns regarding the involvement of Malaysian firms in Indonesia's forest and land fires. He stated that Malaysia respects Indonesia's legal authority and will not defend any companies found to be violating laws during investigations.

Purbaya: Issues in Free Nutritious Meal Program Could Lead to Budget Cuts

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has deployed the Directorate General of Treasury to monitor the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme across Indonesia. He warned that any mismanagement identified in nutrition service units could result in a reduction of allocated funds.

Pramono Confirms Tidying of Tangled Cables on Gatot Subroto to Begin This Week

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has announced that the tidying of messy utility cables along the Gatot Subroto to Cawang corridor will commence this week. The project, which involves the implementation of Integrated Utility Network Facilities (SJUT), was previously delayed due to volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau.

Ombudsman RI: Injustice in Pension Acquisition Relates to Constitutional Rights

The Indonesian Ombudsman (ORI) has highlighted that the injustices faced by labourers regarding work rights and pensions constitute a violation of constitutional rights to fair treatment. The institution plans to map out problematic areas based on a significant rise in reports of maladministration within the labour sector.

Pramono: Integrated Utility Network Cable Reorganisation in Gatot Subroto-Cawang to Begin This Week

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has announced that the rearrangement of Integrated Utility Network (SJUT) cables will commence this week, covering the Gatot Subroto to Cawang area. The initiative aims to tidy up overhead cables, though local officials have called for better coordination with other infrastructure projects to prevent traffic congestion.

Governor Bobby Ensures Flood Mitigation on Letda Sujono Road Will Commence in 2027

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution has confirmed that flood management projects for the Letda Sujono area in Medan are scheduled to begin in early 2027. The initiative involves a collaborative effort between the North Sumatra Provincial Government, the Medan City Government, and the Ministry of Public Works to implement drainage improvements and construct a retention pond.

Navy to deploy aircraft carrier for wildfire response upon arrival

The Indonesian Navy is preparing to deploy the aircraft carrier Garibaldi to bolster wildfire suppression efforts through the use of helicopters and drones. President Prabowo Subianto has announced plans to refurbish the vessel to accommodate up to ten medium-class helicopters capable of transporting significant water payloads for disaster mitigation.

PKB Legislator States Gig Worker Bill Set for 2026 National Legislation Programme, Aspirations to be Accommodated

PKB lawmaker Syaiful Huda has confirmed that the Gig Worker Bill is slated for the 2026 National Legislation Programme (Prolegnas). The proposed regulation aims to provide legal certainty and protection for the growing number of platform-based workers in Indonesia's digital economy.