Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 10 August 2026

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Bima Arya Urges Regional Governments to Strengthen Systems for Handling Violence Against Women and Children

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Bima Arya Sugiarto has called for an integrated and sustainable system to handle violence against women and children, moving beyond reliance on personal initiatives. He stressed that the Ministry of Home Affairs supports regional governments through supervision, legal foundations, and ensuring budget allocations. A key challenge remains the availability of regional budget funding to replicate integrated service programmes across all provinces and districts.

Speaker Puan Maharani Calls for Total Handling of Bromo Fires

House Speaker Puan Maharani has urged the government to fully resolve the forest and land fires in the Bromo area, which have scorched approximately 520 hectares and forced a total closure of tourist access. She stressed the need for a unified command structure, adequate resources, and a comprehensive recovery plan that goes beyond replanting to include economic support for local communities dependent on tourism. Maharani also highlighted the broader national threat, noting that fires in Central Kalimantan are approaching residential areas and require special handling due to the difficulty of extinguishing peatland blazes.

Five Hectares of Land in Garut and Tasikmalaya Scorched, Suspected Due to Waste Burning

Dry conditions during the dry season have led to land fires in Garut and Tasikmalaya, West Java, scorching five hectares of plantation and vacant land. Authorities suspect the fires were triggered by uncontrolled waste burning activities that spread to dry grass and weeds. Officials are urging the public to refrain from burning rubbish, especially during windy conditions, to prevent further incidents.

Indonesia's Sovereign Fund Danantara Signals Wave of State-Owned Enterprise IPOs

Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund Danantara is preparing to launch initial public offerings for several major state-owned enterprises, including Pegadaian and Pupuk Indonesia, within the next 6 to 12 months. The agency also plans to acquire a strategic stake in the Indonesia Stock Exchange as part of a broader government effort to deepen domestic capital markets. The move marks a significant step in the Prabowo administration's strategy to modernise state asset management and boost market liquidity.

UK PM Announces Measures to Tackle Misleading Discounts and Subscription Traps

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has unveiled new measures to crack down on misleading discount practices and subscription traps as part of efforts to ease cost-of-living pressures. The government will consult on explicitly banning deceptive pricing tactics, such as artificially inflating prices before advertising reductions. New subscription rules, effective January 2027, will require businesses to provide clearer information, renewal reminders, and simpler cancellation processes.

Ganti Nama, Karya Pacific Energy Siap Genjot Bisnis Batu Bara

PT Karya Pacific Energy Tbk (IATA), formerly MNC Energy Investments, has rebranded and is awaiting government approval for its revised 2026 work plan to boost coal production. The company is leveraging its integration into the Karya Pacific Group ecosystem, which provides strategic infrastructure including ports and hauling roads, to manage three active mining concessions with total reserves of 288 million tonnes. The corporate transformation reflects a strategic push to strengthen operational capabilities and pursue sustainable growth in Indonesia's coal sector.

Informal waste sector workers to receive 50% discount on JKK-JKM contributions

The Indonesian government is providing a 50 per cent reduction in contributions for work accident and death insurance for informal waste sector workers, halving monthly premiums from Rp16,800 to Rp8,400. The policy, effective until the end of 2026, aims to make social security more affordable and extend coverage to all workers. The initiative was launched alongside the Jakarta provincial government, which pledged support for protecting around 4,000 waste pickers at the Bantargebang landfill.

Two Youths Arrested After Brazenly Bringing Meth-Laced Snacks to Bima Police Station

Two young men in Bima, West Nusa Tenggara, were arrested after attempting to smuggle methamphetamine hidden inside snack packages into a local police station. The pair, identified as DI and LA, admitted the 0.25 grams of crystal meth was intended for a detainee being held at the Asakota Police Station. The suspects and evidence have been transferred to the Bima Kota Police for further legal proceedings.

Prabowo orders maximum handling of forest fires during El Niño

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed for maximum and coordinated efforts to tackle forest and land fires as dry conditions and El Niño intensify. The government is focusing on hotspots in West and Central Kalimantan, as well as East Java's Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. Authorities are deploying ground and air resources, including potential weather modification operations, while urging public vigilance.

Dedi Mulyadi Warns Against Smoking in Forests to Prevent Land Fires

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has urged the public to avoid smoking or lighting any fires in forests during the current dry season to prevent forest and land fires. His warning comes as the provincial disaster agency reports that drought has affected 89 sub-districts across 15 regencies and cities, impacting over 205,000 residents. Authorities have distributed 4 million litres of clean water to the affected areas.

Family Reveals Suspicious Circumstances in Death of Former Jampidsus Employee Sutrimo, Documents Missing

The family of Sutrimo, a former household staff member for the ex-Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, has reported suspicious circumstances surrounding his death to the police. They claim they were not informed that his body was found with foam at the mouth and that personal documents were missing. The case has been reported to the Banyumas Police for further investigation.

Bandung City Government Replants 10 Trees Felled Without Permit in Front of Padel Six Nine

The Bandung city government has replanted 10 trees along Jalan LLRE Martadinata after they were illegally cut down to improve the view of a videotron. The city previously imposed a Rp100 million fine on the videotron manager and sealed the advertising structure. The replanting effort involves technical work to clear old roots and prepare the pavement for the new five-metre-tall saplings.

1,147 Paspampres Personnel Deployed to Secure 81st Indonesian Independence Day Events

A total of 1,147 members of the Presidential Security Force (Paspampres) will be deployed to safeguard the series of events marking Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The force will secure key ceremonies including the flag hoisting, parliamentary sessions, and public festivities, supported by modern weaponry and anti-drone systems. Commander Major General Edwin Adrian Sumantha emphasised a proactive, preventative approach to ensure threats never materialise.

Student wins award for sweat-based monitoring device

A medical student has won a national competition for developing a non-invasive wearable sensor that analyses sweat to screen for the severity of febrile infectious diseases. The 'Smart Febrile Patch' aims to provide an objective early-warning system for the public, potentially reducing delayed medical treatment and irrational antibiotic use. The innovation was recognised at the national outstanding student selection event organised by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology.

Consumers begin to abandon old benchmarks in choosing window film

Japanese window film manufacturer Wincos has observed a shift in Indonesian consumer preferences, moving away from darkness levels as the primary factor. Buyers are now prioritising cabin comfort, heat rejection, visibility, and compatibility with modern vehicle technology. The trend reflects the increasing sophistication of vehicles and a greater focus on functional benefits over mere aesthetics.

PBNU Rais Aam Lauds Kiai Cholil's Pesantren Cendekia Amanah

Rais Aam of PBNU, KH Miftachul Akhyar, has praised the rapid development of Pesantren Cendekia Amanah in Depok, calling it extraordinary. He noted the pesantren's growth strengthens the Islamic education ecosystem in the region. The institution recently hosted a key NU pre-congress forum, demonstrating its role in scholarly tradition and religious discourse.

Presidential Office Targets Issuance of Online Motorcycle Taxi UMKM Regulation Before 17 August

The Indonesian government is aiming to finalise a presidential regulation that will classify online motorcycle taxi (ojol) drivers as micro, small, and medium enterprises (UMKM) before Independence Day on 17 August. Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi confirmed the administrative process is in its final stages. The regulation is expected to provide a new legal status for drivers within the online transport ecosystem.

Residents Burning Charcoal Blamed for 125-Hectare Forest Fire on Mount Bromo

A forest fire that recently struck the Mount Bromo area echoes a similar incident from 1953, when residents burning charcoal caused a blaze that destroyed 125 hectares of pine forest. Historical records show the Tengger massif has repeatedly suffered fires linked to human activity, including a significant event in 1933. The recurring fires threaten the long-term preservation of the iconic volcanic landscape, which has been a major tourist attraction since the early 20th century.

Former Thai MP Shoots Dead Official in Broad Daylight Over Debt Dispute

A former Thai member of parliament has been arrested after fatally shooting a senior local government official in Nonthaburi province. The attack, which occurred outside a government building, was reportedly triggered by a long-standing personal debt of 11 million baht. The incident has intensified public debate over gun control in Thailand, coming just days after a deadly school shooting in the same province.

Gold ETF Officially Launched, Pegadaian Becomes Physical Gold Provider for IDX Product

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has officially launched a Gold Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF), marking a new chapter in gold investment in the country. State-owned pawnbroker PT Pegadaian has been appointed as the sole bullion bank to serve as the underlying asset provider for the instrument. The physical gold backing the ETF is represented through Electronic Gold Receipts (EGR), linking the capital market infrastructure directly with Pegadaian's certified gold reserves and international-standard vaults.

Iran Says Hormuz Strait Talks with Oman Constructive

Iran has described its negotiations with Oman over shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz as smooth and constructive, with an understanding reached on navigational charts. The discussions aim to establish mechanisms for maritime safety and environmental protection, though Tehran insists the strait will not fully reopen until the US ends its naval blockade of Iranian ports. The bilateral talks come amid stalled implementation of a broader US-Iran memorandum of understanding mediated by Pakistan and Qatar.

China Becomes the 'New OPEC', Dominating and Steering the Global Oil Market

China is leveraging its massive strategic and commercial oil reserves, export controls, and domestic consumption management to influence global crude prices. This centralised control over demand has allowed Beijing to slash imports by half during the Iran conflict without triggering a recession, effectively filling the power vacuum left by a fracturing OPEC+. The strategy is estimated to have suppressed Brent crude prices by at least US$30 per barrel.

Attorney General's Office Speaks Out on Febrio, Alleged to Have Taken Sutrimo to Hospital

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office (Kejagung) has confirmed that Febrio Adianto is an administrative staff member, previously assigned to a senior prosecutor now suspended over a corruption case. The statement follows reports linking Febrio to the transport of Sutrimo's body from a clinic to a hospital. The clarification comes as Sutrimo's family has filed an official police report seeking clarity on the circumstances of his death.

Labuan Bajo Port Authority Speaks Out on Viral Jessica Milla Group Trip

The Labuan Bajo Port Authority (KSOP) has confirmed it will sanction a tourist vessel carrying celebrity Jessica Milla's group for violating a temporary sailing ban to Padar Island and Komodo Port. The ban was imposed from 7-10 August due to dangerous weather conditions, with waves up to 2.6 metres. Authorities identified the yacht Maloekoe as having sailed without the required permit, and the captain faces penalties including potential suspension of their licence.

Depok Public Order Agency Razes 420 Illegal Street Vendor Stalls at Cisalak Market

The Depok Public Order Agency (Satpol PP) demolished 420 illegal street vendor stalls along Jalan Raya Bogor to restore public amenities and ease traffic congestion. The displaced vendors have been offered relocation to the main Cisalak Market building, which currently has 650 vacant kiosks. Officials stated the enforcement followed prior warnings and was aimed at creating a more orderly and comfortable trading environment.

Financial Literacy and Inclusion Indices Rise Nationally in 2026

Indonesia's national financial literacy index rose to 69.57 percent in 2026, up from 66.64 percent the previous year, according to a joint survey by BPS, OJK, and LPS. The financial inclusion index also saw an increase, reaching 93.61 percent. However, the sharia financial literacy index experienced a slight decline to 43.07 percent.

DPD Chairman Sultan Najamudin Emphasises Regional Representation Ahead of Annual Session

DPD RI Chairman Sultan Baktiar Najamudin stated that the upcoming Joint Annual Session of the DPR and DPD on 14 August 2026 is a crucial moment to strengthen the representation of regional aspirations. He highlighted the DPD's role in channelling local voices into national policy and ensuring equitable development across all provinces.

Brawijaya University Welcomes 57 Full-Degree International Students from 35 Countries

Universitas Brawijaya (UB) in Malang has admitted 57 new international students from 35 countries for full-degree programmes in the 2026/2027 academic year, bringing the total active international student body to 113. The university is also reinforcing its commitment to equitable access through affirmative action quotas for the Malang Raya region and scholarships for students from Papua. The orientation programme, Raja Brawijaya 2026, will feature prominent speakers and focus on mental health, digital innovation, and global perspectives to support the Indonesia Emas 2045 vision.

BNPB Provides Latest Update on Forest Fires at Mount Bromo

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) reports that firefighting efforts at Mount Bromo have expanded to two new hotspots, while the national park remains closed for safety. The El Niño phenomenon is exacerbating dry conditions, increasing the risk of wildfires in savanna areas. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Forestry has stated that cloud seeding operations cannot yet be conducted due to a lack of convective clouds in the region.

Farhan: Husein Sastranegara Now Holds International Airport Status

Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan has confirmed that Husein Sastranegara Airport has officially been designated an international airport. The upgrade coincides with plans to reactivate international routes to Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, and Singapore, alongside several new domestic services. The city government is currently improving access roads, drainage, and public lighting to support the airport's full reactivation.

Major Challenges Await BI Governor Candidate Destry Amid Global Turmoil

Destry Damayanti has been nominated as the sole candidate for Governor of Bank Indonesia following Perry Warjiyo's resignation. Her extensive experience as Senior Deputy Governor is seen as ensuring policy continuity, but she faces significant challenges in stabilising the rupiah, balancing growth support with stability, and maintaining the central bank's independence. Economists stress that her success should not be measured solely by economic growth figures but by market credibility and the ability to make unpopular decisions when necessary.

Police to Exhume Body of Former Jampidsus' Domestic Worker to Investigate Unnatural Death

Indonesian police are set to exhume the body of Sutrimo, a domestic worker for former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) Febrie Adriansyah, in Banyumas, Central Java. The exhumation aims to determine the cause of death after Sutrimo was found dead under unnatural circumstances shortly after Adriansyah was named a suspect in a corruption and money laundering case. The case has been transferred to the Polda Metro Jaya, which has upgraded the status to a full investigation and has already questioned 24 witnesses.

Government to Use Weather Modification to Combat Forest and Land Fires

The Indonesian government is planning to use weather modification technology to extinguish ongoing forest and land fires, according to Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago. The operation, which relies on seeding clouds to induce rain, is currently on hold as officials search for suitable cloud formations. The fires have already burned approximately 107,000 hectares across several provinces.

Danantara targets SOE IPOs over the next 6-12 months

Indonesia's state wealth fund Danantara is preparing several state-owned enterprises for initial public offerings within the next year to boost liquidity on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. The process will be managed through PT Danantara Asset Management, with potential candidates including Pegadaian, Pupuk Indonesia, Pelindo, and Angkasa Pura. The IPO plans form part of a broader five-year transformation roadmap for state-owned enterprises, with final decisions to be made in coordination with the Ministry of Finance.

Land Title Transfer Service to Be Completed Within 10 Days Starting 17 August

The Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) has announced a new target to complete land title transfer services within a maximum of 10 days, commencing 17 August 2026. The initiative will initially launch in 17 districts and cities before expanding to 41, covering nearly half of the national land service transaction volume. The ministry is coordinating with the Ministry of Home Affairs to accelerate local government verification of land and building acquisition duties (BPHTB) to support the expedited process.

Danantara prepares to acquire shares in Indonesia Stock Exchange

Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund Danantara is set to acquire a stake in the Indonesia Stock Exchange as part of the bourse's demutualization into a joint-stock company. The move, mandated under the P2SK Law, will be executed through its subsidiary PT Danantara Investment Management, with state entities given priority in the equity acquisition. The Financial Services Authority is drafting the necessary regulation, expected by mid-September 2026, to formalise the ownership transition.

State Palace Adds 3,400 Quotas for Independence Day Ceremony, Registration Opens Tuesday

The Indonesian government will accommodate an additional 3,400 citizens for the 81st Independence Day ceremony at the State Palace on 17 August 2026, splitting the quota between the morning proclamation commemoration and the afternoon flag-lowering ceremony. Registration for the new slots opens on 11 August via the Pandang Istana website, following overwhelming public enthusiasm that saw over 336,000 applicants for the limited-capacity event. Priority will be given to citizens who have never attended the ceremony in person at the palace.

Central Jakarta Dekranasda Expands MSME Market Reach Through 'Goes to Mall'

The Central Jakarta chapter of the National Crafts Council (Dekranasda) is leveraging shopping malls to broaden the market access of local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The 'Dekranasda Goes to Mall' initiative provides a platform for artisans to directly interact with urban consumers and showcase their products. Officials hope the programme will boost sales and open wider business networks for the region's MSMEs.

Madiun Regency accelerates business licensing with 'Jempol Mas Har' programme

The Madiun Regency Government in East Java has launched the 'Jempol Mas Har' programme to expedite business permit services, particularly for micro and small enterprises. The initiative employs a proactive 'door-to-door' approach, targeting markets and business centres, to simplify licensing and improve access to government programmes. This move aligns with the implementation of Government Regulation No. 28 of 2025 on risk-based business licensing.

FDC Dental Clinic CEO: Business Growth Must Prioritise Impact Over Revenue

FDC Dental Clinic's founder, drg. Ita Lestari, has urged health business owners to measure growth by the benefits created for society rather than just revenue. Speaking at a business masterclass, she detailed how FDC expanded by addressing public barriers to dental care, such as cost, fear, and lengthy procedures. She emphasised that leadership must evolve from managing oneself to leading people and ultimately creating a broader impact.

Tourists Affected by Bromo Closure Can Request Refunds

The Indonesian Ministry of Tourism has announced that tourists who purchased online tickets for Mount Bromo during the temporary closure period of 9-15 August 2026 are eligible for full refunds or free rescheduling. The closure, prompted by a fire, has affected 3,062 visitors, while the ministry continues to coordinate with authorities to ensure the area is safe before reopening.

Japan's Current Account Swings to Deficit for First Time in 17 Months

Japan recorded a current account deficit in June 2026, its first in 17 months, driven by a surge in dividend payments to foreign investors and rising oil import costs. Despite the monthly shortfall, the country still posted a record surplus for the first half of the year, bolstered by strong semiconductor exports.

Home Affairs and ATR Ministers Sign Circular to Strengthen Land Services

Indonesia's Minister of Home Affairs and Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning have signed a joint circular to streamline the payment of land and building acquisition duties (BPHTB) and integrate land and tax data. The initiative aims to resolve technical obstacles and human resource gaps that have caused delays in land registration and certificate issuance. The government expects the improved coordination between regional revenue agencies and local land offices to boost locally generated revenue and provide greater legal certainty for the public.

Babel Police Hold Forest and Land Fire Preparedness Drill

The Bangka Belitung Islands Police have conducted a readiness drill to bolster forest and land fire (karhutla) mitigation efforts as the dry season intensifies. Regional Police Chief Inspector General Viktor T. Sihombing stressed the importance of synergy among all parties, noting that while no major fires have occurred yet, vigilance remains crucial. Authorities are prioritising public appeals against slash-and-burn land clearing but warned that effective legal action will be taken against violators.

Public Outcry: Mass Rejection of Giant Data Centre Projects

A growing wave of public opposition in the United States is blocking the construction of massive data centres, driven by concerns over excessive electricity, water, and land consumption. More than 500 local jurisdictions have imposed restrictions, with dozens of projects cancelled and some public meetings ending in arrests. The backlash reflects mounting anger over officials prioritising Big Tech interests over community welfare.

BNPB Says Only Two Hotspots Remain in Bromo Forest Fire

The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) reports that forest and land fires in the Mount Bromo area have been reduced to just two remaining hotspots. Helicopters have been deployed to assist ground crews, and the fires in Mount Gede Pangrango and Mount Rinjani have been fully extinguished. The blaze, which started on 3 August, has burned approximately 550 hectares of vegetation but caused no casualties.

North Sulawesi Police Take Over Fatal Drag Race Case, Driver May Be Named Suspect

The North Sulawesi Regional Police have assumed control of the investigation into the fatal Tidar Drag Race Championship 2026 crash in Kotamobagu, which killed eight people. The police chief stated the driver, Tian Ngantung, is likely to be named a suspect once he recovers from serious injuries. Investigators are also examining potential negligence by the event's organising committee.

Danantara targets SOE IPOs over the next 6-12 months

Indonesia's Danantara is preparing to launch initial public offerings for several state-owned enterprises within the next six to twelve months, aiming to boost liquidity on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. The agency's chief investment officer stated that the process is being managed by PT Danantara Asset Management, with potential candidates including Pegadaian, Pupuk Indonesia, Pelindo, and InJourney Airports. The IPO plans are part of a broader five-year transformation roadmap for state-owned enterprises, with final decisions to be made in coordination with the Ministry of Finance.

BULOG Records 5.25 Million Tonnes of Rice Stock Across Warehouses Nationwide

Indonesia's state logistics agency BULOG reported a rice stock of 5.25 million tonnes as of 9 August 2026, spread across its national warehouse network. The stock level reflects ongoing domestic procurement and various distribution programmes, including food aid and price stabilisation. BULOG is optimistic about exceeding its 2026 procurement target of 4 million tonnes of milled rice equivalent, having already absorbed 3.67 million tonnes from local farmers.

Ministry says national park closures conditional on wildfire spread

Indonesia's Ministry of Environment and Forestry has stated that further national park closures will depend on ground conditions, with Mount Bromo being the only park shut so far due to forest fires. The government is intensifying patrols and community outreach to prevent fires during the dry season, while closures are reserved for situations requiring large-scale firefighting operations. The Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park remains closed to tourists to ensure safety and support ongoing efforts by joint task forces.