BANDUNG CITY (TUGUBANDUNG.ID) – Mayor of Bandung Muhammad Farhan attended the Plenary Meeting of the West Java Provincial Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) to commemorate the 81st Anniversary of West Java Province, held in the courtyard of Gedung Sate on Wednesday evening, August 19, 2026. The plenary session formed part of the series of events celebrating West Java's 81st Anniversary, which falls on August 19, 2026. The moment served as a reflection on West Java's journey and an opportunity to strengthen a shared commitment to continuing regional development. In his address, West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi highlighted a number of development milestones and challenges, including those related to the Human Development Index (HDI). Dedi noted that West Java's national HDI ranking has shifted since 2020. In 2025, West Java ranked 15th nationally, achieving what he described as the highest HDI growth rate in the country that year. According to him, improving the HDI remains a collective effort, particularly because several regencies in West Java still record relatively low HDI scores. “How do we boost the HDI? Boosting the HDI requires the government to continuously enhance basic services for regencies and cities,” Dedi said. He acknowledged that upgrading basic services currently faces severe fiscal pressure. Nevertheless, Dedi expressed optimism that West Java's development aspirations can be achieved through shared spirit and optimism. Meanwhile, Speaker of the West Java Provincial DPRD Buky Wibawa stated that based on Regional Regulation No. 26 of 2010 concerning the Anniversary of West Java Province, August 19, 1945, was designated as the founding date of West Java Province. This designation is rooted in the historical establishment of Indonesia's first eight provinces by the Preparatory Committee for Indonesian Independence (PPKI): West Java, Central Java, East Java, Sumatra, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Maluku, and Lesser Sunda. Buky emphasized that the West Java Anniversary serves as a moment to honor history and regional governance figures, foster local unity and pride, and deepen the public's love for West Java. He also reaffirmed the West Java DPRD's commitment to supporting beneficial development ideas for the province. “Our duties and functions may differ, but we are an inseparable whole,” Buky remarked. Separately, Farhan extended his congratulations on the 81st Anniversary of West Java Province via the official Instagram channel of the Bandung City Secretariat's Protocol and Executive Communication Office. Farhan stated that 81 years is a long journey filled with achievements, dedication, and the spirit to build West Java into an advanced, prosperous, and competitive province. As the capital of West Java Province, Farhan believes Bandung City bears a responsibility to contribute by strengthening public services, fostering innovation and the creative economy, and driving inclusive, sustainable urban development. “Every regency and city in West Java has its own role, potential, and complementary strengths,” Farhan said. Under the leadership of West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi, Farhan invited all regions to reinforce collaboration, align their steps, and deliver programs that offer tangible benefits to the public. He also encouraged the people of West Java to preserve togetherness, nurture local culture and wisdom, and boldly create new breakthroughs to meet the challenges of the times. “Because a strong West Java is built from regions willing to empower one another,” he added. Farhan expressed hope that West Java's 81st Milangkala (anniversary) would serve as momentum to move faster, work more concretely, and deliver the best contributions for West Java. [Source]
Aug, 21 2026
BANDUNG. BEDAnews.com – Commission III of the West Java Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) highlighted the quality of investment realization, assessing that it has not yet fully optimized the reduction of open unemployment. Marking the 81st Anniversary of West Java Province, Commission III of the West Java DPRD emphasized that the direction of investment policy must shift from merely chasing numbers to delivering a real impact on the people's economy. Budi Mahmud Saputra, a member of Commission III of the West Java DPRD, stated that the high investment realization figures in West Java require a comprehensive evaluation, particularly regarding labor absorption elasticity and equitable regional distribution. “High incoming investment figures should be directly proportional to job availability for the community. If capital realization continues to break records while issues of layoffs (PHK) and unemployment still loom, there is a structural disconnection that we must fix together,” expressed Budi Mahmud Saputra in Bandung City on Wednesday (Aug 19, 2026). Based on investment performance data, investment realization in West Java reached IDR 138.13 trillion in the first semester of 2026, continuing the positive trend of 2025, which recorded IDR 296.83 trillion. Although consistently topping the national rankings, the proportion of labor absorption per trillion rupiah of investment is considered to be on a declining trend due to the dominance of capital-intensive and highly automated industries. This evaluation step is deemed consistent with the direction of West Java's Regional Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMD) 2025–2029, which prioritizes the expansion of employment opportunities and the strengthening of local economic foundations. Urging Special Incentive Schemes and MSME PartnershipsCommission III of the West Java DPRD views the fundamental challenge in West Java's investment climate as resting on the shift in capital structure toward technology-intensive sectors (capital & technology-intensive). The characteristics of such industries tend to absorb minimal local labor in massive quantities compared to traditional manufacturing or labor-intensive sectors. To bridge this gap, Commission III of the West Java DPRD encourages the West Java Provincial Government to formulate more strategic policies that go beyond easing permit issuance by applying measurable screening instruments. “The provincial government needs to draft targeted fiscal and non-fiscal incentive regulations for investors committed to absorbing local workforce and building supply chains alongside local MSMEs. Ease of investment must be tied to clear workforce absorption performance indicators,” he affirmed. Budi Mahmud Saputra added that quality investment must generate vertical and horizontal multiplier effects. The involvement of local business actors and MSMEs in the supply chains of large corporations is key to ensuring that domestic and foreign capital flows are distributed evenly down to the grassroots level, rather than remaining concentrated solely in specific industrial zones. [Source]
Aug, 20 2026
HARAPANRAKYAT.COM – Coffee commodities from West Java have achieved another milestone. This time, the Java Halu brand from the Mount Halu area in West Bandung Regency has successfully broken into the international market by dispatching its inaugural shipment of 26 tons of coffee to the United Kingdom. The export transaction is valued at approximately US$250,000, equivalent to over IDR 4 billion. The official launch of the shipment took place in the Kota Baru Parahyangan area on Tuesday (Aug 18, 2026). The Vice Governor of West Java, Erwan Setiawan, welcomed this step as tangible proof that the quality of local coffee can compete globally. “This is not merely a one-time shipment; we hope it marks a sustainable beginning. Don't stop in Europe—we must maintain quality to penetrate other markets, such as the Americas and other continents,” Erwan said. He noted that nearly every regency in West Java possesses coffee plantation potential, thriving across various mountainous areas. The success of Java Halu serves as an inspiration and a pioneer for other coffee-farming communities to keep innovating. “West Java has extraordinary coffee wealth. This proves that regional flagship products can boost both local and national economies,” he emphasized. Guidance and Mentorship for Java Halu CoffeeMeanwhile, the Head of Bank Indonesia's (BI) West Java Representative Office, Junanto Herdiawan, stated that boosting exports is key to maintaining regional economic growth. West Java's economy is currently growing at 5.7 percent, surpassing the national average of 5.29 percent. According to him, four main pillars drive the economy: consumption, investment, government spending, and exports. Among these, exports still hold significant room for expansion. “If exports can be pushed harder, the entire economic engine will turn faster, leading to even higher growth,” Junanto said. BI West Java actively supports MSMEs, including mentoring and guiding the managers of Java Halu. Support ranges from providing modern equipment to connecting business owners with overseas trade partners. “We don't just want MSMEs to survive; they must level up to penetrate international markets. This is our goal in mentoring Java Halu to compete on the global stage,” he added. Daily Production of 5 TonsOwner of Java Halu, Rani Mayasari, shared that this inaugural shipment to Europe is the fruit of a long journey developing Mount Halu coffee. Production in the area involves about 20 core farmers and up to 200 households, with women accounting for 80 percent of the workforce. “Every day, we can process around 5 tons of coffee cherries from the region. Today's success is inseparable from the support and guidance provided by BI West Java, ranging from production tools to market networks,” Rani revealed. Looking ahead, in addition to maintaining its market presence in Europe, Java Halu is preparing to enter new markets, including China. This move demonstrates that local coffee can not only endure, but is ready to become a major player worldwide. [Source]
Aug, 19 2026
BANDUNG (ANTARA) - The Speaker of the West Java Regional House of Representatives (DPRD), Buky Wibawa Karya Goena, has called on the West Java Provincial Government to strike a balance between physical infrastructure development and public services alongside community empowerment. Speaking in Bandung on Tuesday, Buky noted that the construction of provincial roads and street lighting over the past two years has progressed well. However, he emphasized that efforts to tackle poverty and unemployment must also be strengthened. “It is time for the government to align its priority programs with the public service and community empowerment sectors, as poverty and unemployment rates remain notably high hovering between 6 and 7 percent,” Buky said. He explained that the West Java DPRD is advocating for this policy rebalancing to enhance community economic independence, which ultimately reduces the government's budgetary burden. “The more empowered the community becomes, the lighter the government's burden will be,” he added. Buky mentioned that public satisfaction with regional development under the leadership of West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has reached 95.4 percent. Nevertheless, he stressed that this high rating must be matched by reinforced programs in public services and community empowerment. Meanwhile, Governor Dedi Mulyadi previously stated that approximately 80,000 residents in West Java still lack access to electricity in 2026. “We extend our sincere apologies. After 81 years of Indonesian independence, we have not yet been able to fully 'liberate' all the people of West Java. There are still 80,000 citizens in West Java who lack electricity access to this day, leaving them in the dark at night,” Dedi expressed during the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony at the Gedung Sate courtyard in Bandung on Monday (Aug 17). Dedi affirmed that the West Java Provincial Government is fully committed to resolving the electricity access issue by 2027. He described the situation as a major irony, given that West Java is widely recognized as a national energy hub home to extensive hydroelectric facilities including Jatiluhur, Jatigede, Cirata, and Saguling as well as rich geothermal potential, yet some of its own residents have not enjoyed access to electricity. In addition to expanding electrical coverage, Dedi highlighted that the provincial government remains focused on improving irrigation infrastructure, roads, street lighting, and school buildings. [Source]
Aug, 19 2026
BANDUNG, Bogoronline.com – Business and industrial activity in West Java continued to show positive growth throughout the first semester of 2026. This is reflected in the year-on-year (YoY) increase in business and industrial customers served by PT PLN (Persero) Distribution Unit of West Java (UID Jawa Barat). The number of business customers reached 1,054,347, up 11.32 percent compared to Semester I 2025, which recorded 947,135 customers. Meanwhile, industrial customers grew 8.38 percent from 19,157 to 20,762 over the same period. General Manager of PT PLN (Persero) UID Jawa Barat, Muhammad Joharifin, stated that the growth of business and industrial customers serves as an indicator of expanding productive activity in West Java. PLN continues to match this growth by ensuring the readiness of electrical infrastructure and improving service quality for the business community. “The growth of business and industrial customers demonstrates that productive activity in West Java is continuously developing. For PLN, this serves as an encouragement to ensure that customers' electricity needs are met with increasingly accessible, fast, and reliable services so that business operations can run and expand smoothly,” Joharifin said. The growth of customers in productive sectors goes hand in hand with the surge in investment across West Java. Data from the West Java Investment and One-Stop Integrated Services Office (DPMPTSP) reveals that investment realization throughout Semester I 2026 reached IDR 138.13 trillion, absorbing 246,887 workers. This achievement positions West Java as a top investment destination in Indonesia and the province with the largest foreign direct investment (FDI/PMA) realization in the first half of this year. Joharifin explained that business expansion must be matched by adequate electricity availability and easy access to power services. Beyond maintaining supply reliability, PLN continues to enhance its service delivery processes to meet customer energy demands quickly and in line with their operational needs. “PLN wants to ensure that business growth in West Java is backed by sufficient electricity services. When business actors need power to launch, expand capacity, or develop their enterprises, we stand ready to provide electrical support tailored to their needs,” Joharifin added. According to Joharifin, a reliable electricity supply plays a crucial role in maintaining productivity while opening room for businesses to scale. Consequently, PLN UID Jawa Barat will keep strengthening electrical infrastructure and elevating service quality to meet evolving customer demands. “Electricity is not just an operational requirement; it is a driver of economic activity. We hope that easier access to electricity for the public and business owners will support increased productivity, enterprise growth, and broader economic benefits for the people of West Java,” Joharifin concluded. By strengthening electrical infrastructure and enhancing service quality, PLN UID Jawa Barat continues to ensure the readiness of its power system to keep pace with business and industrial growth. Armed with a reliable power supply and increasingly accessible services, PLN remains committed to supporting business dynamism and West Java's overall economic expansion. [Source]
Aug, 18 2026
CIREBON REGENCY, (FC).- Cirebon Regency's investment performance has shown a positive trend. Throughout 2025, regional investment realization successfully exceeded the target set by the West Java Provincial Government, reaching nearly IDR 4.02 trillion. Based on the investment realization progress report from the Cirebon Regency Investment and One-Stop Integrated Services Office (DPMPTSP), the investment value in 2025 reached IDR 4,019,772,811,098. This figure surpassed the investment realization target set by the West Java Provincial Government of IDR 3.35 trillion. With this achievement, Cirebon Regency's investment realization percentage reached 119.99 percent. The Head of Cirebon Regency DPMPTSP, H. Hilmy Rivai, stated that this achievement reflects growing investor confidence in Cirebon Regency's economic potential. According to him, the local government continues to make various efforts to create a conducive investment climate, ranging from improving licensing services to offering conveniences for business actors investing in the region. “The 2025 investment achievement demonstrates that Cirebon Regency holds strong appeal for investors,” Hilmy said on Friday (Aug 14). Entering 2026, investment development in Cirebon Regency has once again shown a positive trend. In the first and second quarters (Q1 and Q2) of 2026, Cirebon Regency was recorded as one of the regions with the highest investment realization in the Rebana Metropolitan area. Based on the DPMPTSP report, investment realization in Q2 2026 reached IDR 1,781,621,048,439, while in the previous quarter (Q1), it was recorded at IDR 1,449,196,668,175. Thus, total investment realization in Cirebon Regency across Q1 and Q2 of 2026 reached IDR 3,230,817,716,614. This milestone represents 76.02 percent of the 2026 West Java Province investment target, which was set at IDR 4.25 trillion. Hilmy emphasized that the local government will continue to boost investment growth through service facilitation programs and by strengthening the region's potential sectors. According to him, investment growth not only impacts the region's economic value, but also creates job opportunities and enhances Cirebon Regency's competitiveness within the Rebana Metropolitan area. (Ghofar) [Source]
Aug, 18 2026
INILAHKORAN.ID – The West Java Provincial Government is not only focused on attracting industrial investment, but also on ensuring that growth in the manufacturing sector creates a quality workforce while strengthening local business actors. Industrial technological transformation presents a new challenge for West Java. The demand for labor remains high, but the rise of automation requires companies to employ human resources with increasingly specific technical competencies. Head of the West Java Department of Industry and Trade (Disperindag), Nining Yuliastiani, stated that technological transformation makes workforce competency a key factor in maintaining industrial competitiveness. According to Nining, the use of semi-automated machinery is not meant to entirely replace human labor, but rather to enhance precision and production quality. "However, to deliver better product precision and quality, semi-automated machinery is being introduced," Nining said on Thursday (Aug 13, 2026). West Java Industry Needs Competent LaborNining explained that technological shifts require industrial workers to possess the ability to operate machinery and production technology. Basic skills alone are no longer considered sufficient to meet the needs of modern industry. "On the other hand, industry requires a competent workforce because basic skills are no longer enough. For example, even in a sewing operator position, workers are still required to master the machine technology they will operate," she said. Because of this, the West Java Provincial Government has begun strengthening its workforce preparation strategy based on industry demand. Workforce mapping is conducted as soon as investments enter, ensuring that the training provided is more targeted. Upskilling and reskilling programs form part of the strategy to bridge the gap between workforce competencies and company requirements. These programs are designed not only for prospective new workers, but also for existing industrial employees to provide opportunities for career advancement, from operators to supervisors. Hundreds of Vocational School-Industry PartnershipsThe West Java Provincial Government is partnering with various institutions to strengthen workforce competence, including the Industrial Training Center, BPSDMI of the Ministry of Industry, and the Ministry of Manpower. Several ongoing programs include Sewing Supervisor Training, Industrial Workforce Placement Training, and Operator Certification in Majalengka Regency, as well as Workforce Placement Training in Ciamis Regency. Collaboration with the private sector continues to expand as well. One example is the partnership with the Cinta Anak Bangsa Foundation (YCAB) to enhance workforce skills for absorption into the textile products industry in Ciamis Regency. In the education sector, the West Java Provincial Government is strengthening links between vocational high schools (SMK) and the industrial world through the link and match program. This program includes curriculum adjustment, competency mapping, Industry Teaches initiatives, teacher internships in companies, and improving the quality of practical field work. As of 2026, 740 partnerships between vocational high schools and the business/industrial sector have been established in West Java. The West Java Provincial Government is also developing the Nyari Gawe platform to connect job seekers with companies. The platform is simultaneously designed to serve as a talent pool development base, matching industrial needs with worker competencies. West Java Encourages SMI Inclusion in Industrial Supply ChainsBeyond labor issues, the West Java Provincial Government is working to ensure that incoming investment yields broader impacts for local industries, particularly by strengthening domestic supply chains. To date, several industrial sectors remain dependent on imported raw materials and components, leaving them vulnerable to exchange rate fluctuations, global logistics disruptions, and geopolitical uncertainty. The West Java Provincial Government is encouraging the use of local raw materials, industrial downstreaming, partnerships between large enterprises and small and medium-sized industries (SMIs), as well as the optimization of domestic products. Nining stated that reinforcing local supply chains is crucial so that West Java does not merely serve as an end-assembly location, but actively involves local business players. "Supply chains for spare parts and vehicle assembly currently rely heavily on imports. This condition indicates that supply chains at the local level are not yet optimally formed. The West Java Provincial Government is developing a system that ensures long-term sustainability," she said. Currently, West Java boasts 13,796 SMIs with the potential to enter large industrial ecosystems as suppliers of components, raw materials, and supporting services. The government is encouraging SMIs to improve product quality, standardization, certification, production capacity, and digital capability to meet the standards of large-scale industry. Electric Vehicle Industry in FocusPartnership reinforcement is also directed toward the electric vehicle (EV) sector. Disperindag West Java, together with the Ministry of Investment/BKPM and the Ministry of Industry, is preparing a partnership program to connect the EV industry with prospective local suppliers. Currently, the verification and curation process for prospective suppliers is underway. Business matching agendas are targeted to take place from late August through September 2026 in Bekasi and Karawang regencies. Through this strategy, industrialization in West Java is oriented not merely toward pursuing incoming investment, but toward building a robust industrial ecosystem. This ecosystem encompasses a competent workforce, adaptive vocational education, technological mastery, and the active involvement of local SMIs in large industrial production chains.*** [Source]
Aug, 14 2026
Warta Ekonomi, Jakarta - Governor of West Java Dedi Mulyadi has his own reasons for continuously driving infrastructure development across various regions. For Dedi, projects involving roads, connectivity, and supporting facilities are not merely physical construction, but a strategy to create job opportunities and stimulate the local economy. Dedi explained the relationship between infrastructure development and the issue of unemployment in West Java. He acknowledged that a paradox remains when the quality of infrastructure improves, yet the unemployment rate does not automatically drop significantly. "Many have pointed out that infrastructure development here is much better than before. However, the unemployment rate remains high," said Dedi, as quoted on Thursday (Aug 13, 2026). According to him, this issue cannot be adequately addressed solely through programs that directly target job seekers. Infrastructure development can also serve as an engine that generates economic activity from the moment a project begins until the facility is completed and utilized. Dedi believes that the impact of development does not stop with the workers visible at project sites. When an infrastructure project is underway, various professions gain economic opportunities. From material transport drivers, project laborers, tradesmen, and architects to planners, everyone is involved in the development chain. "This also creates economic circulation. There are drivers, laborers, tradesmen, architects, planners, and the like. Secondly, by building infrastructure, investment becomes easier to attract," Dedi said. It is this ripple effect that he believes must be recognized when the government builds infrastructure. Projects do not merely spend budgets to produce roads or buildings; they also create demand for labor, services, transportation, materials, and other supporting needs. As these activities pick up, communities surrounding the construction areas also stand to gain economic benefits. Through this perspective, infrastructure development is positioned as an instrument to address employment challenges. The government is not just building facilities, but also creating an economic ecosystem that enables more people to earn an income. Dedi also linked infrastructure development to a broader goal: attracting investment to West Java. In his view, investors look beyond market potential or land availability when deciding to set up business operations. Basic infrastructure is a key consideration because it directly impacts company operations. Road access, electricity, telecommunications networks, gas pipelines, and clean water supplies must be adequate for investment to flow in and flourish. "Investment will come when toll roads are good, electricity is connected, telecommunications networks are connected, gas pipeline networks are connected, and clean water networks are connected. This will spur investment. And with investment, people will get jobs," Dedi explained. He noted that good infrastructure facilitates mobility and distribution, which in turn enhances the region's appeal to investors. When investment comes in, companies require labor, thereby opening up employment opportunities. This means that infrastructure development is expected to yield more than just immediate benefits like better roads or shorter travel times. There is a follow-up target: the growth of economic activity and job creation. He does not want infrastructure projects to be viewed solely by their final output. A completed road, for example, certainly offers connectivity benefits. However, the process leading up to its completion involves substantial labor and economic activity. Even after completion, improved infrastructure creates a more attractive environment for the business world. Goods distribution becomes easier, worker mobility increases, and inter-regional connectivity expands. [Source]
Aug, 13 2026
TRIBUNJABAR.ID - BANDUNG – The West Java Regional Office of the Ministry of Law (Kemenkum) has once again demonstrated its commitment to safeguarding the formulation of quality regional legal products through a Harmonization Meeting on two Draft Regional Regulations (Raperda) of Purwakarta Regency, held virtually on Tuesday (Aug 11, 2026). This strategic event was a concrete realization of the directives given by the Head of the West Java Regional Office of Kemenkum, Asep Sutandar. He issued a specific mandate to the Head of the Division of Legislation and Legal Guidance, Ferry Gunawan Christy, to ensure that the regulations drafted support regional progress while remaining orderly and aligned with the hierarchy of central government legislation. The dynamic meeting was attended by various key stakeholders, ranging from the Bapemperda and Secretariat of the Purwakarta Regency DPRD, DPMPTSP, the Agriculture Office, the Legal Division of Purwakarta Regency, to the Purwakarta Zonation Taskforce Team 4. This harmonization session examined two crucial legal instruments for the development of Purwakarta. The first discussion focused on the Draft Regional Regulation on the Implementation of Organic Farming. This draft regulation is expected to serve as a protective and developmental policy for the agricultural sector, covering everything from the provision of infrastructure and facilities to community guidance. During the process, the team focused on synchronizing the supervisory authority over the distribution of organic products to avoid overlap and align with the domain of the Ministry of Agriculture as regulated in Minister of Agriculture Regulation No. 64 of 2013, while also refining the formulation of administrative sanctions and drafting techniques. Subsequently, the meeting proceeded to finalize the Draft Regional Regulation on the Provision of Investment Incentives and Facilitation. This regulation is formulated as a proactive step by the region to spur economic growth, attract investors, and create new competitive job opportunities. In-depth discussions were conducted to perfect both formal and material aspects, including the criteria for incentive recipients, procedures for granting them, and evaluation mechanisms. Under the direct supervision of Kemenkum West Java, these draft regulations are targeted to become a clear, consistent, transparent, and accountable legal foundation that can be fully implemented by the Purwakarta Regency Government without exceeding existing authority. [Source]
Aug, 12 2026
harapanrakyat.com,- Governor of West Java, Dedi Mulyadi, responded to public criticism regarding the high unemployment rate amid massive infrastructure development in West Java. He stated that the acceleration of road construction and public facilities actually serves as a primary stimulus for absorbing labor and driving the regional economy. "Infrastructure development reduces unemployment because people get to work, from laborers and drivers to architects when good roads are built and construction materials are purchased. Consequently, the wheels of the economy turn through material purchases at hardware stores," said Dedi on Tuesday (Aug 11, 2026). He added that building adequate road infrastructure, electrical connectivity, telecommunications networks, and gas pipelines forms the core foundation for attracting new investment to West Java. Incoming investment will naturally be accompanied by job absorption, requiring the West Java Provincial Government to prepare a skilled workforce. Dedi emphasized that employment opportunities from new investments should not merely rely on geographic preference for communities around factories. Instead, he wants workers hired by these factories to be truly qualified. "We must ensure that local residents are prepared as skilled workers through education that adapts to industry needs," he stated. Addressing Unemployment in West Java, Dedi Mulyadi Acknowledges Labor Sector ChallengesNevertheless, Dedi acknowledged major challenges in the labor sector, such as the relocation of labor-intensive industries to other regions due to disparities in the Regency/City Minimum Wage (UMK). Therefore, the West Java Provincial Government is preparing a comprehensive strategy to maintain industrial sustainability while improving worker welfare. "That is an issue, so we must strike a balance so that labor-intensive industries can thrive while laborers prosper," he said. Currently, the West Java Provincial Government is working toward providing free education up to the university level, affordable clean water supplies, energy subsidies, and accessible public transportation. These measures aim to safeguard worker welfare without placing an excessive burden on labor-intensive industries that might drive them to relocate. "The real problem is that rising expenses are outstripping income growth. That is the homework we must complete for the benefit of all parties," he explained. On the other hand, Dedi highlighted shifts in local labor preferences, which have led to worker shortages in basic manufacturing and agricultural sectors. Dedi committed to narrowing the income inequality gap so that prosperity can be felt evenly across all levels of society. Through synergy between skilled workforce readiness and industrial regulatory planning, the West Java Provincial Government remains optimistic that the regional investment climate will continue to grow positively without neglecting workers' rights. [Source]
Aug, 12 2026
Bisnis.com, BANDUNG – Bank Indonesia West Java Representative Office, in collaboration with the West Java Batik Foundation, the West Java Regional Crafts Council (Dekranasda West Java), and the West Java Tourism and Culture Office, organized Batik Walk 2026 to strengthen the cultural preservation ecosystem and creative economy in the region. "Preserving batik means keeping it alive, not merely preserving it as a heritage of the past, but continuously wearing, introducing, creating, and passing it on to the next generation. Through today's Batik Walk, we demonstrate that batik can continue to evolve in both classic and contemporary styles without losing its cultural roots," stated the Head of Bank Indonesia West Java Representative Office, Junanto Herdiawan, during the Batik Walk event, which was held in synergy with the Soft Launching of Batik Ge Hade and the Kick-off Road to the Wonderful Indonesia Awards 2026 on Sunday (Aug 9, 2026). The Batik Walk route spanned from Point Zero (KM 0) on Jalan Asia Afrika to the Bank Indonesia West Java Representative Office, featuring approximately 300 participants comprising West Java batik preservation communities, artisans, MSME actors, and the general public. Dressed in batik attire and accessories, the Batik Walk served as a space to celebrate Indonesian textiles while running a campaign to foster public appreciation and pride in local batik heritage. Simultaneously, the event served as momentum to expand education on and the adoption of QRIS as part of the Road to National QRIS Week. The QRIS campaign was integrated directly into public and MSME activities to cultivate digital transaction habits that are quick, easy, secure, and efficient. Through this approach, cultural preservation and digital transformation move hand in hand, encouraging batik MSMEs to become increasingly adaptive to the evolving digital economic and financial ecosystem. The staging of Batik Walk also synergized with the Soft Launching of Batik Ge Hade created by West Java's special-needs artisans—as well as the Kick-off Road to the Wonderful Indonesia Awards 2026, which promotes the recognition of West Java’s tourism and creative economy potential. This collaboration engaged the West Java Batik Foundation, Dekranasda West Java, and the West Java Tourism and Culture Office, providing a platform that brought together the public, communities, artisans, and MSMEs to safeguard and celebrate West Java's rich batik heritage. With increasingly solid collaboration, West Java's cultural richness is expected to keep growing while benefiting the local community and creative economy actors. This spirit is further reflected in Batik Ge Hade, which prioritizes inclusivity in cultural preservation alongside MSME development. The creations of these special-needs artisans, mentored by Dekranasda West Java, demonstrate that persons with disabilities have an equal space and role to create, innovate, and contribute to the development of West Java batik. Their involvement underscores that cultural preservation grows stronger when supported by an inclusive ecosystem that opens opportunities for every individual, producing works of both cultural and economic value. In addition, Bank Indonesia West Java presented the QRIS Experience, Consumer Protection education, the Love, Proud, and Understand (CBP) Rupiah campaign, and Wise Shopping initiatives. The series of activities also featured a product showcase of MSMEs from the traditional textile, fashion, and food and beverage (F&B) sectors where transactions were required to use QRIS as part of efforts to merge cultural preservation, MSME development, and the strengthening of the digital economy ecosystem. Through Batik Walk 2026, Bank Indonesia West Java, alongside the West Java Batik Foundation, Dekranasda West Java, and the West Java Tourism and Culture Office, remains committed to reinforcing the cultural preservation ecosystem and creative economy in West Java. This synergy is expected to keep batik alive, relevant, and cherished by today's generation while serving as a source of inspiration, creativity, and a driver for an inclusive and sustainable local economy. [Source]
Aug, 11 2026
Minister of Creative Economy (Menekraf) Teuku Riefky Harsya believes that international film productions shooting on location in Indonesia generate a significant multiplier effect for the national economy. Beyond stimulating local economies, such collaborations unlock new investment opportunities within the domestic film subsector. According to Riefky, global-scale film productions do not merely absorb local labor; they directly invigorate supporting industries such as hospitality, culinary services, transportation, logistics, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and tourism destinations. “We want Indonesian culture, nature, production crews, and talent to collaborate even further. These collaborations not only promote Indonesia but also facilitate the transfer of knowledge and technology, among many other benefits that support the Indonesian film industry as our diplomatic bridge to the international community,” Teuku Riefky stated in an official release in Jakarta on Monday (Aug 10, 2026). The Minister made these remarks while conducting an on-site visit to the production location of the international film titled "Happy Eyes" at Taman Safari Indonesia in Cisarua, Bogor. The film is a collaborative project between French studio Moana Films and Indonesian production house Jungle Run Productions. The Ministry of Creative Economy emphasized that the positive impact of foreign film productions does not end when shooting wraps. Showcasing Indonesia’s natural beauty and rich culture on global big screens serves as long-term tourism promotion (film-induced tourism) capable of attracting international tourists. To boost Indonesia's competitiveness as a preferred global filming destination while driving foreign direct investment (FDI), the government is committed to streamlining various technical regulations. “We continue to collaborate to ease processes, whether related to visas, permits, or the temporary import and re-export of production equipment,” Riefky affirmed. The film "Happy Eyes" itself underwent approximately 40 days of principal photography in Indonesia, primarily located at Taman Safari Bogor and Tanjung Lesung, Banten. The project engaged around 220 personnel, comprising 40 foreign crew members and 180 local crew members. Executive Producer of "Happy Eyes", Joe Yaggi, revealed that over 70 percent of the total crew involved were Indonesian creative talents. This strong local involvement serves as proof that the work standards of national creative workers can compete on a global level. “The French crew really enjoyed working with our local crew. They were very impressed. I hope more films like this come to Indonesia because our crew has proven they can work at an international standard,” Joe said. With an abundance of biodiversity, stunning natural landscapes, and ready local talent, the government remains optimistic that Indonesia can transform into one of the primary international film production hubs in the Asia-Pacific region. [Source]
Aug, 11 2026
TRIBUNJABAR.ID, BANDUNG – The plan to extend the Bogor–Ciawi–Sukabumi (Bocimi) Toll Road to Padalarang is considered to hold great potential for strengthening regional connectivity in West Java. However, the project should not be viewed merely as a traffic congestion solution; it must be accompanied by the development of economic zones to ensure its investment feasibility. Institute of Technology Bandung (ITB) transportation observer Sony Sulaksono stated that from a policy perspective, the project has been included in the list of National Strategic Projects (PSN) under the Regulation of the Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Number 16 of 2025. Nevertheless, the Sukabumi–Ciranjang and Ciranjang–Padalarang sections are currently still at the feasibility study preparation stage at the Ministry of Public Works. According to Sony, conceptually, the toll road will form a new corridor connecting Bogor, Sukabumi, Cianjur, and the Greater Bandung area. "This corridor will not only reduce travel time, but it also has the potential to become an alternative route to the Jakarta–Cikampek–Cipularang section," he told TribunJabar.id on Friday (Aug 7, 2026). Sony assessed that the presence of the toll road would also enhance connectivity in southern West Java, which has so far relied on national roads with relatively high traffic density. If connected to Padalarang, the Bocimi Toll Road is projected to deliver several benefits for West Java, ranging from streamlining goods distribution and improving accessibility for Sukabumi and Cianjur to supporting growth in the industrial, agricultural, and tourism sectors. Furthermore, the toll road is expected to strengthen inter-regional connectedness. According to him, vehicle traffic volume must be significant enough to make the project attractive to investors and to prevent over-reliance on the state budget (APBN), despite its PSN status. "What needs attention, based on past experience in toll road construction and operation, is that every toll road plan must ensure sufficient traffic volume to attract investors, thereby reducing the burden on the APBN even if it holds PSN status," he explained. Therefore, Sony considers local governments to play a crucial role in ensuring the project's success. "The West Java Provincial Government, alongside the relevant regency and city governments, needs to adjust spatial plans (RTRW) as well as development policies for economic zones and activity hubs to align with the arrival of the toll road," Sony said. He explained that when the toll road eventually operates, the areas it passes through must already be developed, creating a mutually beneficial relationship between transport infrastructure and regional economic growth. Sony added that if toll road construction is based solely on relieving traffic congestion, its impact on investment viability will remain limited. "Calculations for toll road construction that serve merely as a solution to traffic jams generally do not yield a significant impact, especially when viewed from an investment perspective," he concluded. [Source]
Aug, 10 2026
Bandung – West Java recorded the highest number of layoffs (PHK) in Indonesia from January to June 2026. A total of 6,727 workers lost their jobs, accounting for approximately 20.8 percent of the national total of 32,389 layoffs. In other words, one out of every five laid-off workers in Indonesia came from West Java. The high layoff figures drew sharp criticism from Zaini Shofari, a member of Commission V of the West Java Regional House of Representatives (DPRD). According to him, the large amount of investment flowing into West Java should go hand in hand with increased labor absorption, particularly for local residents. "It should be directly proportional. If there is investment, it means labor absorption grows, meaning employment increases, right? But apparently, that is not the case," Zaini said on Thursday (Aug 6, 2026). He assessed that this issue highlights an suboptimal synergy between incoming investment and the readiness of the workforce in West Java. Therefore, the Manpower Office (Dinas Tenaga Kerja) needs to play a more active role in preparing human resources (HR) that align with industry needs. "That means one of the pillars lies with the Manpower Office to develop the local workforce, for example. The labor absorption must be prepared. There should be synergy between investment in West Java and how that workforce is absorbed," he said. Zaini cited the condition in the Subang industrial area as an example. According to him, many hired workers still come from outside West Java, even though the investment is located within the province. "Take Subang recently; many people from outside West Java were hired there. It should be linear so that there is synergy between investments in West Java, prepared beforehand by the central government and continuous coordination with the provincial government, allowing the needs of companies to be met by local West Java workers," he explained. He clarified that investment decisions have largely been determined by the central government. As a result, local governments often lack sufficient time to prepare a workforce that matches the requirements of operating companies. "What happens is that investment decisions are made at the central level, and suddenly hundreds of hectares are allocated for a company. While the company is ready to offer jobs, local communities visited by these projects cannot yet access or enter that sphere," he said. Zaini also urged companies investing in West Java to pay greater attention to hiring from surrounding areas. While it should not be absolute, he believes local residents still deserve priority. "Since the company is located in the area, naturally, that is how it should be," he added. When asked about the need for regulations requiring companies to employ West Java residents, Zaini noted that such a policy could be considered. However, he emphasized that regulations must still take the specific needs of companies into account. "There should be something like that, though it doesn't have to be absolute. However, the surrounding community must be considered after all, that is partly why companies have CSR: to empower and support local residents," he concluded. [Source]
Aug, 10 2026
BANDUNG — West Java's economic growth in the second quarter of 2026, which surged to 5.73 percent, must deliver a tangible impact directly felt by all levels of the local community. This growth rate, standing above the national average of 5.29 percent, must not merely exist as an impressive figure on paper without concrete improvements in public welfare. The direct impact of this growth is crucial for West Java residents who currently require new job opportunities, increased household income, and targeted poverty alleviation. Without equitable distribution and optimal labor absorption, high economic growth risks triggering deeper social inequality between urban and rural areas. Promoting Inclusion and Reducing Poverty Rates Iwan Koswara, a member of Commission V of the West Java Regional House of Representatives (DPRD), commended the economic achievement as a positive signal for regional economic recovery and strengthening. However, he reminded the local government not to become complacent with macroeconomic indicators alone. "High economic growth is certainly something to be grateful for. However, what is more important is how the results of that growth can create jobs, increase public income, and sustainably reduce poverty rates," Iwan Koswara stated on Thursday, August 6, 2026. Iwan also highlighted the decline in West Java's poverty rate, which currently stands at 6.54 percent. While considering this indicator a positive development, he stressed that strengthening community empowerment programs is absolutely necessary so that residents build resilient, long-term economic fortitude. Strengthening Manufacturing and Vocational Education The manufacturing sector remains the main driving force and the largest contributor to West Java's economic growth rate. To maintain this momentum, the quality of local human resources must be continuously improved so they can compete and be absorbed by modern industries. A tactical step that the provincial government needs to accelerate is strengthening vocational education and job training programs, with curricula tailored to the actual needs of today's business world. "Commission V of the West Java DPRD will continue to push for improvements in education quality, training, and workforce competency so that the people of West Java can fill the available job opportunities," Iwan said, reiterating the legislature's commitment. Furthermore, equitable development remains an urgent task so that the benefits of growth are not solely enjoyed by residents in urban industrial areas, but also extend to remote rural communities. "Moving forward, economic growth must become increasingly inclusive. This means its benefits are felt by all levels of society, thereby continuously improving the quality of life for West Java residents," Iwan concluded. [Source]
Aug, 07 2026
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