JAKARTA – The 2026 Suara Nusantara Folklore Storytelling Festival was held for the third time, serving not only as a platform for cultural and local language preservation but also as a catalyst for human resource development and the culture-based creative economy. Organized by PT Navaswara Bhuwana Kencana on August 22–23, 2026, at the Bogor Regency Regional Secretariat Auditorium, this year's festival carried the theme "Reviving West Java Legends, Inspiring the Future." The event drew high public interest, registering 1,120 participants from across West Java who submitted storytelling videos for selection. From this pool, 40 top storytellers representing 16 regencies and cities advanced to the semifinals. Chairperson of the Suara Nusantara Committee and Managing Director of PT Navaswara Bhuwana Kencana, Cahaya Manthovani, expressed surprise at the enthusiastic response: “To be honest, I was shocked to receive a total of 1,120 applicants. Today, we have the 40 best storytellers from 16 regencies and cities, bringing their own stories and regional languages to a single stage,” Cahaya said. Focus on Human Resource & Literacy DevelopmentHead of the Language Development and Fostering Agency at the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, Hafidz Muksin, highlighted the link between storytelling, literacy, and human capital growth: “The Language Agency extends its highest appreciation to Suara Nusantara for acting as a strategic government partner in promoting reading culture, literacy, and human resource quality,” Hafidz stated, adding that promoting the Sundanese language through creative events enhances communication and critical understanding. West Java Regional Secretary Herman Suryatman added that building human resources requires four core competencies: critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication. “Critical thinking must be nurtured starting from elementary through senior high school. Children must be able to evaluate their surroundings critically. When challenges are tackled together, nothing is impossible,” Herman noted. Promoting the Creative Economy and Talent GrowthThe festival also fosters the regional creative economy through performing arts, content creation, cultural tourism, and talent development. In the final round, 20 finalists across four categories performed one of 15 selected West Java folktales, evaluated on vocal delivery, expression, characterization, and creativity. The panel of judges included representatives from Ayo Dongeng Indonesia (AyoDi). Festival Prize Categories1st Place: IDR 5,000,000, 2nd Place: IDR 3,000,000, 3rd Place: IDR 2,000,000, Best Costume & Fan Favorite: IDR 1,000,000 each and Runner-up: IDR 500,000 Representing Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto, Assistant for Economy and Development Trian Turangga expressed hope that bringing diverse cultural stories together will strengthen national pride and mutual understanding. [Source]
Aug, 27 2026
BISNIS.COM, GARUT – The Garut Regency Government has acknowledged that its community's income levels remain the lowest in West Java. The region's low Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) per capita reflects weak local economic productivity, driven primarily by limited productive investment entering the area. Garut Regent Abdusy Syakur Amin stated that Garut Regency's GRDP per capita currently stands at approximately IDR 26 million per year. This figure lags significantly behind West Java's provincial average of IDR 59 million and the national average of IDR 79 million annually. “Our GRDP is the lowest in West Java. This means the income of Garut residents is extremely low,” Syakur noted on Wednesday (Aug 26, 2026). According to Syakur, the economic gap between Garut and other regions in West Java is overly wide, demanding collective efforts to accelerate local growth. He emphasized that this disparity stems from insufficient investment driving community productivity. “We have human resources and skills. But without tools and capital, how can we progress?” he remarked. He highlighted the agriculture sector as a primary pillar of Garut's economy. Skilled farmers, he noted, still struggle to boost output without access to capital, high-yield seeds, quality fertilizers, and modern equipment. Consequently, the Garut Regency Government positions investment as a core instrument to enhance public productivity and elevate regional income. Syakur identified three key growth drivers for Garut's GRDP: investment, government spending, and household consumption. Investment, however, is deemed the most decisive factor for generating new economic activities, creating jobs, and adding value to local production. “Without investment, Garut cannot escape structural poverty. We need investors willing to inject capital into industry, agriculture, and MSMEs,” he stated. Alongside attracting capital, the local government aims to direct public spending to yield direct economic impacts through job creation, local empowerment, and workforce upskilling. Concurrently, boosting household consumption and purchasing power remains a priority to stimulate the local economy. The Garut Regency Government committed to improving the investment climate by streamlining licensing and facilitating business operations. Syakur pointed out that Garut holds strong foundational assets, including available land, a large labor force, and untapped agricultural and manufacturing potential. “We have vast land, an abundant workforce, and a strategic location. But without investment, none of these hold value. We stand ready to simplify permits and facilitate incoming investments,” he concluded. [Source]
Aug, 27 2026
Danantara Indonesia, through PT Danantara Investment Management (DIM) and PT Daya Energi Bersih Nusantara (Denera), officially inaugurated the groundbreaking of the Waste-to-Energy (PSEL) facility in Bekasi City, located in Ciketing Udik, Bantar Gebang, West Java. This ground-breaking marks the second PSEL project initiated by Danantara Indonesia under Presidential Regulation No. 109 of 2025 concerning urban waste management via eco-friendly technologies, following the commencement of the Greater Denpasar PSEL project in July 2026. Pandu Sjahrir, Chief Investment Officer of Danantara Indonesia, noted that with Bekasi City's landfill (TPA) exceeding capacity, sustainable waste management is urgent. “This initiative is expected to create nearly 1,000 green jobs and provide clean energy for tens of thousands of households. Furthermore, it proves that synergy among the Central Government, Regional Government, Danantara Indonesia, and various stakeholders can deliver concrete solutions for integrated waste management in Indonesia,” Pandu stated in Bekasi on Wednesday (Aug 26, 2026). Pandu added that the project represents an investment value of IDR 3 trillion and will reduce landfill land requirements by 90 percent. Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan (Zulhas) expressed optimism regarding the collaborative effort: “With strong collaboration, we are optimistic that waste accumulation issues across various regions can be resolved more rapidly. May our joint efforts yield tangible solutions for waste management in Indonesia,” Zulhas said. The ceremony included the signing of a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with PT PLN (Persero), ensuring a commercial off-taker mechanism for the electricity generated. PSEL Bekasi will operate under an off-take price set at USD 0.20 per kWh, in accordance with Presidential Regulation No. 109 of 2025. The project secured its Environmental Impact Assessment (AMDAL) from the Ministry of Environment (KLH) on Monday, August 24, 2026, issued to Bekasi Environment Nusantara as the Project Development and Management Entity (BUPP). Targeted for commercial operation by mid-2028, the facility will utilize moving grate incinerator technology equipped with an Air Pollution Control System (APCS) compliant with European Union Industrial Emissions Directive (EU IED) standards. Additionally, the facility will synergize with a separate pyrolysis waste-to-fuel initiative managed by the Indonesian Army (TNI AD). Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Army (KSAD), General Maruli Simanjuntak, added: “This facility provides the capability to process existing accumulated waste, which has been a major concern in various regions. We hope this model can be replicated in more locations to deliver a broader impact across Indonesia.” [Source]
Aug, 27 2026
NTVNEWS.ID, JAKARTA – Minister of Finance Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa emphasized that every single rupiah of the State Revenue and Expenditure Budget (APBN) must truly work and deliver tangible benefits to the public. He conveyed this statement during an unannounced visit to the West Java Regional Office of the Directorate General of Treasury (DJPb) in Bandung on Monday, August 24, 2026. The primary objective of the Finance Minister's visit was to directly inspect the implementation of the APBN in West Java through the end of July 2026, while ensuring state budget allocations continue working to serve the community. During the visit, the Finance Minister reviewed state revenue growth, state expenditure realization, Transfers to Regions (TKD) and Village Funds, as well as the implementation of various government programs directly touching the public. “Every single rupiah of the APBN must keep working not just logged as a realization figure on paper, but genuinely delivering real benefits to the community,” the Finance Minister stated. Based on reports from the West Java DJPb Regional Office, APBN execution through July 31, 2026, maintained positive performance, recording a regional surplus of IDR 22.02 trillion. This surplus was supported by state revenue reaching IDR 85.61 trillion, or 45.41 percent of the target. Meanwhile, state expenditure realization stood at IDR 63.59 trillion, or 57.02 percent of its total ceiling. State revenue grew by 6.81 percent compared to the same period last year. On the tax front, receipts through late July 2026 reached IDR 81.30 trillion, marking a 7.35 percent year-on-year (YoY) increase. This tax total comprises tax revenues of IDR 63.84 trillion (up 10.41 percent) and customs and excise receipts of IDR 17.46 trillion. The processing industry remained the largest contributor to West Java's tax revenue, generating IDR 30.60 trillion or 47.93 percent of total tax receipts. This performance reflects the manufacturing sector's pivotal role in sustaining economic activity and state revenue across West Java. On the expenditure side, APBN realization through July 31, 2026, reached IDR 63.59 trillion. Although total state expenditure contracted by 1.45 percent YoY, Ministry/Agency (K/L) spending surged by 28.86 percent, reaching IDR 26.61 trillion or 53.53 percent of its ceiling. K/L expenditure growth was primarily driven by capital spending, which hit IDR 3.11 trillion a significant increase of 115.37 percent compared to July 2025. This rise demonstrates an acceleration in spending dedicated to regional development and public service provision. Meanwhile, Transfers to Regions (TKD) and Village Funds reached IDR 36.98 trillion, or 59.82 percent of the allocated ceiling. Of that total, TKD disbursements accounted for IDR 35.46 trillion, while Village Funds reached IDR 1.52 trillion by the end of July 2026. The Finance Minister reiterated that APBN realization must move beyond figures and actively translate into local economic activity and public welfare, including financial support for business sectors. “We want to ensure that the APBN in West Java doesn't stop at budget absorption reports, but manifests as active economic drive, business support, development, and enhanced public welfare,” he affirmed. Fiscal support is also directed toward reinforcing priority national programs. For example, the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program has been implemented across 27 regencies and cities in West Java through 6,794 Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG), reaching 14,680,810 beneficiaries. Additionally, the APBN supports several other strategic initiatives, including the Housing Financing Liquidity Facility (FLPP), the establishment of Red and White Village/Sub-district Cooperatives, People's Schools (Sekolah Rakyat), food and energy security programs, and the distribution of People's Business Credit (KUR) and Ultra Micro Financing (UMi). Through July 2026, KUR distribution in West Java reached IDR 23.24 trillion across 357.3 thousand debtors. Meanwhile, UMi financing was disbursed at IDR 1.31 trillion to 226.4 thousand debtors. Amid global economic fluctuations, West Java's local economy continues to demonstrate strong resilience. In the second quarter (Q2) of 2026, West Java's economy grew by 5.73 percent YoY and 2.25 percent quarter-on-quarter (QoQ). This growth was primarily driven by the manufacturing industry sector as a primary economic engine. Price stability also remained well-controlled, with West Java's annual inflation recorded at 2.72 percent in July 2026. West Java's trade balance from January to July 2026 posted a surplus of USD 13.79 billion. These figures demonstrate that the APBN continues to execute its role as a shock absorber and a catalyst for regional economic growth. Fiscal support, sustained domestic demand, and price stability serve as vital foundations for West Java's economic resilience amid global uncertainties. Through this direct inspection, the Finance Minister reiterated the necessity of managing every single rupiah of the APBN optimally and accurately to deliver concrete benefits to the public. “What we are guaranteeing is that the state budget is managed optimally, targeted precisely, and capable of acting as a catalyst for both regional and national economic growth,” the Finance Minister concluded. The government will continue to optimize the APBN as an instrument to support national priority programs, protect public purchasing power, strengthen business operations, and drive sustainable economic growth regionally and nationally. [Source]
Aug, 26 2026
GALAMEDIANEWS – The Indonesian Chinese Cultural Center in Bandung City is being urged to extend its function beyond cultural preservation. Its presence is expected to create economic opportunities while strengthening intercultural interaction within the community. This push was highlighted by West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi during the inauguration of the Indonesian Chinese Cultural Center Building and the 50th golden anniversary celebration of the Priangan Social Support Foundation (YDSP) on Tuesday, August 25, 2026. Dedi requested that the cultural center refrain from creating a divide with the surrounding community. According to him, the building and its surrounding area must provide tangible benefits, particularly in boosting local productivity and the economy. “This building must not become an ivory tower that widens the disparity with its surrounding environment,” Dedi stated. He even proposed a comprehensive area redevelopment to integrate the Indonesian Chinese Cultural Center with its surroundings, turning it into one of Bandung City's newest tourist destinations. According to Dedi, access routes leading to the area could be enhanced with Chinese cultural accents, such as installing Chinese ornaments around the Pasir Koja Toll Gate, which serves as a key access point. Additionally, sidewalks and street lighting could be beautified using lanterns. The residential neighborhood surrounding the center should also be revamped to be cleaner, more comfortable, and attractive to visitors. However, area redevelopment should not rely solely on physical infrastructure. Dedi emphasized that local residents must be prepared to capture the economic opportunities generated by the center. Residents, he said, could receive entrepreneurship training, including Chinese culinary preparation, souvenir crafting, and marketing skills. “The approach is to educate the surrounding community not by giving handouts, but by training them to become productive,” he explained. Dedi believes this approach will deliver a direct economic impact to local residents. He also encouraged holding regular cultural performances at the site. Fusing Sundanese and Chinese cultures in these showcases could serve as both a tourist draw and a space for community interaction. “We can hold performances once a week or once a month. The Provincial Government can cover the performance costs that's fine, as long as people visit. It will feature joint Sundanese and Chinese performances,” he added. According to Dedi, the historical bond between Sundanese and Chinese cultures is nothing new. Chinese influence, he noted, has long integrated into West Java life through cuisine, language, and various traditions. Therefore, he hopes the inauguration of the Indonesian Chinese Cultural Center serves as momentum to reinforce intercultural ties. “Let us build this civilization through a cultural approach,” he said. Meanwhile, Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan stated that the establishment of the Indonesian Chinese Cultural Center, initiated by YDSP, demonstrates that cultural diversity can coexist and blend seamlessly with the local community. Farhan conveyed this during the joint inauguration and YDSP's 50th golden anniversary event on Tuesday, August 25, 2026. “The presence of the Chinese Cultural Center in Bandung, brought to life by YDSP, proves that cultural diversity in Bandung can unite and merge harmoniously with nearby residents,” Farhan remarked. Farhan added that the Bandung City Government will work to ensure that supporting infrastructure surrounding the center is well-maintained and properly developed. This step is necessary so that the cultural center can be used optimally by the public not only as a cultural venue but also as part of broader area development. “Optimal utilization for the public is essential. We will ensure that the supporting infrastructure surrounding the site is maintained, cared for, and well-built,” he said. Dedi added that the Indonesian Chinese Cultural Center is envisioned as a hub connecting culture, education, tourism, entrepreneurship, and local economic development. The West Java Provincial Government will coordinate with the Bandung City Government to execute gradual area redevelopments, with major enhancements targeted to begin in 2027. “Hopefully, this place will serve as a venue to enhance the human resource quality of West Java and Indonesia,” Dedi concluded. Thus, the presence of the Indonesian Chinese Cultural Center is expected not only to enrich Bandung's cultural landscape, but also to serve as a community meeting point and a driver of local economic activity. [Source]
Aug, 26 2026
INILAHKORAN.ID – The West Java Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) holds high hopes for the establishment of PT Sangga Buana (Perseroda), a regional investment holding company currently being deliberated by Special Committee (Pansus) XVIII on the Draft Regional Regulation (Ranperda). West Java DPRD Member Daddy Rohanady expressed that the parent company must prove itself as a new instrument to boost investment and increase Regional Original Revenue (PAD). According to Daddy, the initiative launched by West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi aligns with efforts to strengthen the region's economic competitiveness through broader investment networks. “When KDM (Dedi Mulyadi) launched the discourse of creating Sangga Buana as an investment holding company, I truly placed high hopes on it. After all, Danantara at the national level has proven that such models can indeed generate revenue,” Daddy stated when contacted by INILAHKORAN.ID on Wednesday (Aug 26, 2026). However, he reminded that the success of PT Sangga Buana will ultimately be measured by tangible results rather than mere concepts or discourse. “If people express skepticism, that is normal. Indonesians need proof, not just ideas. So now we wait to see what results Sangga Buana will deliver,” he said. Daddy believes the holding company could open wider doors for collaboration, including with international investors, while showcasing West Java's economic potential. “I agree with the spirit behind it. It serves as a way to build networks, hopefully international ones so people pay attention to West Java. We hope this exposes available opportunities and generates additional revenue streams for PAD,” he added. 26 BUMDs Will Not Be DissolvedRegarding the integration of 26 regional state-owned enterprises (BUMDs) into PT Sangga Buana, Daddy emphasized that this move does not mean liquidating or dissolving existing companies. He noted that the integration process must begin with a comprehensive due diligence audit of all BUMDs slated to fall under the holding umbrella. “We hope that prior to December (2026), they will complete due diligence on the 26 companies set to be consolidated under Sangga Buana. But that does not mean the current boards of directors will be dismissed. This is a holding structure think of it as establishing a corporate headquarters at the top,” he clarified. According to him, the holding entity focuses on strengthening governance and business development rather than completely replacing existing operational management. “Just as electing a president does not mean firing all governors, the same logic applies here. While strict evaluations will certainly take place, it does not imply wiping entities out,” he noted. Initial Capital of IDR 125 Billion to Attract InvestmentPT Sangga Buana is projected to receive a total regional capital injection of IDR 500 billion, disbursed incrementally through 2031. For the initial phase, the West Java Provincial Government plans to allocate IDR 125 billion via the 2027 Regional Budget (APBD). Daddy explained that this capital is intended to strengthen the parent entity so it can attract new investment, rather than being disbursed directly to individual BUMDs. “Aside from the IDR 125 billion, we are not allocating extra funds. We expect the holding company to leverage this initial capital to attract external investments both foreign direct investment (PMA) and domestic capital (PMDN),” he said. He hopes the incoming investments will rehabilitate underperforming BUMDs, enabling them to make a larger contribution to the local economy. “If the injected companies recover and turn healthy shifting from a struggling state to financial health across the 26 entities—it will circulate capital within West Java and expand profit margins,” he said.Multi-Term Capital InjectionsRegarding the capital injection scheme extending through 2031 across future gubernatorial terms, Daddy stated that multi-year financing is a standard practice in regional development.He cited capital injections for Kertajati West Java International Airport (BIJB) as an example, which continued across multiple administration changes. “Multi-year capital injections are common. Look at Kertajati BIJB since the era of Governor Aher it has continued across several governors, provided statutory conditions and financial capacity allow it,” he stated. Daddy concluded that sustained capital funding must be accompanied by continuous performance improvements to ensure regional revenue goals are met. “Logically, when capital injections proceed according to plan, we expect Regional Original Revenue to increase accordingly,” he concluded. [Source]
Aug, 26 2026
BOGOR REGENCY (ANTARA) – The Bogor Regency Government in West Java is preparing new economic growth hubs in its western and eastern regions to create job opportunities and reduce inter-regional disparities. Speaking in Cibinong on Sunday, Bogor Regional Secretary Ajat Rochmat Jatnika stated that developing these new economic centers forms part of Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto's policy to promote equitable development. “The development of new economic hubs in West Bogor and East Bogor is part of the local government's efforts to ensure balanced development and economic growth,” he said. According to him, economic activity in Bogor Regency has historically been concentrated in specific areas. Consequently, the local government is seeking to establish new growth poles tailored to the unique potential and characteristics of each area. This initiative aims to ensure that residents benefit not only from physical infrastructure improvements, but also gain job opportunities and business prospects closer to home. “In principle, it is not merely about building new zones, but about creating economic activities that directly benefit the public, generate jobs, attract investment, and enhance the value of local potential,” he noted. He explained that developing growth hubs in West and East Bogor will be synchronized with infrastructure projects to strengthen connectivity and support economic activities. The local government continues to rely on the Regional Spatial Plan (RTRW) as a benchmark for guiding regional development, while taking environmental capacity and infrastructure readiness into account. “All development must strictly align with the RTRW, taking environmental carrying capacity and infrastructure readiness into consideration,” Ajat stated. He expressed hope that spreading growth centers more evenly will narrow inter-regional gaps while establishing new economic drivers outside areas that have traditionally anchored public activity. The Bogor Regency Government aims for investment growth and regional development to yield a direct impact on public welfare, particularly through job creation and the enhancement of local assets. [Source]
Aug, 24 2026
PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY – The 81st Anniversary of West Java Province was celebrated on Wednesday evening at Pasanggrahan Pancarasa, in the courtyard of Gedung Sate, Bandung. The event commenced with a plenary session chaired by the Speaker of the West Java DPRD, Buky Wibawa Karya Guna, followed by a reading of West Java Province's history, and concluded with a speech from West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi. Closing out the peak of the evening, invited guests and attendees were entertained by a performance from singer Rizky Febian. In his address, Governor KDM the governor's popular moniker stated that at 81 years of age, West Java ought to have reached the pinnacle of its success. “Because we possess complete potential, including energy, agriculture, marine, geothermal, hydroelectric, and solar power capabilities, alongside industrial and manufacturing strength spread across the entire region of West Java Province,” he stated on Wednesday (Aug 19, 2026). However, that potential remains unevenly distributed, marked by development distortions between regencies, cities, and the provincial level. Therefore, there must be an orchestration of development directions and budget allocations led by the governor and vice governor. “Budget evaluation is the key to orchestrating development. Administrative-heavy budgets must now shift toward technical applications by fulfilling basic needs first,” he explained. Addressing basic educational needs, the average length of schooling must be improved, as enrollment rates for compulsory 9-year basic education are not yet optimal. Adding new classrooms and providing scholarships serve as priority programs. Beyond primary, junior high, and senior high schools, non-formal equivalency education (Paket A, B, and C) will also receive attention. KDM also highlighted the economic disparity among regencies and cities across West Java. Bekasi, with its high minimum wage, stands in stark contrast to regions like Majalengka, Kuningan, and Indramayu. On the other hand, the cost of living is often measured by uniform standards. “Urban residents pay rent, buy rice, and pay for meals, which drives up income needs. Meanwhile, in Kuningan or Majalengka, residents don't buy rice because they harvest their own, and they don't buy vegetables or water. Thus, lower income levels shouldn't be the sole benchmark. However, our shared challenge is to ensure that West Java's top-tier investment climate directly translates into the creation and filling of job opportunities across the entire province,” he emphasized. Improving public health quality is another core basic service receiving primary focus. There should be no disparity in health service quality from primary referral points in villages to secondary and tertiary medical facilities. KDM also aims for budgetary efficiency by streamlining institutional structures. The headcount of provincial government personnel must strictly correspond to the demand for basic public services. The number of administrative positions will be reduced, alongside a consolidation of regional government agencies (OPD). “Some will remain unchanged, two agencies may merge into one, or even three into one. This answers the principles of efficient financial management. When discussing efficiency, we are discussing reallocation; having an excessive number of official positions directly impacts our fiscal strength,” he explained. Efficiencies will also be implemented across Regional State-Owned Enterprises (BUMD). There will no longer be an excess of directors and commissioners. BUMDs are expected to make significant contributions in supporting government efforts to deliver robust public services, driving economic growth, boosting competitiveness, and functioning as true government assets. These state enterprises will be merged under a single holding entity, BUMD Sanggabuana, and managed by field professionals selected through an open recruitment process. “Therefore, at 81 years of West Java Province, allow me to execute fundamental reforms to build professionalism and a government structure that sides with the public, holds a grand vision for community prosperity, operates efficiently, and systematically resolves public grievances in an open manner,” he concluded. [Source]
Aug, 24 2026
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
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