Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 10 August 2026

Showing 701-750 of 1,377 articles

Danantara Housing Expo 2026: BRI Leads Himbara Collaboration to Strengthen Housing Financing

The Danantara Housing Expo 2026 is set to take place in August at PIK, Jakarta, as part of the government's 3 Million Homes Programme. The event will bring together state-owned banks, developers, and industry players to expand public access to home ownership, with BRI appointed as the coordinator for the Himbara banking consortium.

Jakarta Police Investigate Suspicious Death of Sutrimo, Probe Planned Murder Allegations

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police are investigating the death of Sutrimo, whose body was found in front of a clinic in South Jakarta, following a formal complaint from his family alleging planned murder. The case has been transferred from the Banyumas Police, and investigators have so far questioned 24 witnesses to determine the exact cause of death.

Indonesia boosts hospitality training ahead of 2026 Mandalika MotoGP

Indonesia is enhancing local hospitality standards through a training program in the Mandalika area, preparing the tourism workforce for the 2026 MotoGP event. The initiative, involving 53 participants from Bilebanten Green Tourism Village, aims to improve service quality across the tourism ecosystem and strengthen the destination's global competitiveness while generating economic benefits for the local community.

Destry Damayanti Deemed the Right Figure to Lead Bank Indonesia

Trimegah Sekuritas Indonesia's Chief Economist, Fakhrul Fulvian, has endorsed Destry Damayanti as the ideal candidate for Bank Indonesia Governor, citing her comprehensive experience across monetary policy, banking, and financial markets. He argues her pragmatic and stability-oriented approach is crucial for navigating an era of rapid technological change, geopolitical uncertainty, and structural economic shifts. Damayanti has been proposed by President Prabowo as the sole candidate for the central bank's top post.

E-commerce Giant's Warehouses Explode, Small Traders Face Bankruptcy

Ukrainian drone strikes targeting Russian e-commerce logistics have crippled Wildberries' supply chain, causing a 50% drop in sales for franchisees and threatening mass bankruptcies among small businesses. The destruction of over 1.18 million square metres of warehousing has paralysed deliveries and put more than 3,100 pick-up points up for sale. The disruption, affecting a sector representing 8.5% of Russia's GDP, risks fuelling inflation and a surge in non-performing loans.

Indonesia Boosts Capital Market Competitiveness thru Gold ETFs

Indonesia has launched a gold-based Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) on the Jakarta stock exchange as part of a strategy to deepen its financial market and enhance regional and global competitiveness. Deputy Finance Minister Judah Agung highlighted the growing significance of gold ETFs in the international investment ecosystem, noting that global assets under management reached $559 billion in 2025. The initiative, a collaboration between regulators and industry players, aims to provide new investment options while strengthening the national bullion ecosystem and supporting broader financial market deepening.

OJK Awaits MSCI Review Amid Freeze on Indonesian Index

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) is awaiting the outcome of MSCI's index review on 12 August 2026, hoping that recent market transparency reforms will lead to the lifting of restrictions on Indonesian stocks. MSCI has maintained a freeze on certain index changes, including increases in the Foreign Inclusion Factor and the addition of new constituents, while acknowledging the reform efforts. The OJK expects that sustained improvements in transparency and integrity will encourage the global index provider to remove the freeze in the next review period.

Forest and Land Fires in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park Expand to 520 Hectares

Forest and land fires within the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park (TNBTS) in East Java have spread to approximately 520 hectares. The Ministry of Forestry is intensifying integrated firefighting operations, deploying water bombing helicopters and drone sprayers to tackle the blaze amid extreme dry weather. The fires have prompted the closure of four tourist entry points, impacting the local economy.

Jasindo-Led Consortium Pays Rp 17.6 Billion Claim to Religious Affairs Ministry

State-owned insurer PT Asuransi Jasindo, leading the State Property Insurance Consortium, has disbursed Rp 17.6 billion in claims to the Environmental Fund Management Agency for assets belonging to the Ministry of Religious Affairs. The payout covers damage to ministry assets in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra caused by disasters in 2025. This marks the first claim settlement under the State Property Insurance scheme funded by the Disaster Pooling Fund, demonstrating the mechanism's role in accelerating post-disaster asset recovery.

Minister of State Secretary: 336 Thousand People Register for 81st Independence Day Ceremony at Palace

Public enthusiasm for attending the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony at the Merdeka Palace has surged, with over 336,000 registrations received in just four days for an initial capacity of 5,500. The government has responded by adding a new block with 3,400 seats and will split the event into morning and afternoon sessions. Priority will be given to first-time attendees after data revealed many previous participants had re-registered.

BI: Consumer Confidence Index Remains in Optimistic Territory in July 2026

Bank Indonesia reported that the Consumer Confidence Index (IKK) stood at 116.8 in July 2026, indicating sustained optimism among consumers. The reading was supported by both the Current Economic Conditions Index and the Consumer Expectations Index, though both were slightly lower than the previous month. Consumers also showed stable spending patterns, with a marginal increase in the proportion of income used for debt repayments.

State Palace Prioritises First-Time Registrants for 81st Independence Day Ceremony

The Indonesian government is prioritising citizens who have never attended the Independence Day ceremony at the State Palace, with over 336,000 applicants vying for a spot. Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi stated the policy aims to ensure fair distribution of the limited 8,900 seats across two sessions. The 81st anniversary commemoration, themed 'Sovereign, Just, and Prosperous Indonesia', will take place on 17 August 2026.

Economist: Destry Damayanti the Right Figure to Continue BI Leadership

An economist has endorsed Destry Damayanti as the ideal candidate to lead Bank Indonesia, citing her comprehensive experience across academia, financial markets, and the central bank. President Prabowo Subianto has formally proposed Damayanti as the sole candidate for the governorship. The next governor faces complex structural challenges including digitalisation, energy transition, and geopolitical uncertainty.

Riau Police Chief Celebrates 1st Anniversary of Kodam XIX/Tuanku Tambusai, Emphasises TNI-Polri Solidarity

Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan attended the first anniversary celebration of Kodam XIX/Tuanku Tambusai in Pekanbaru, presenting a symbolic tumpeng and tree saplings. He highlighted the critical importance of solid collaboration between the Indonesian Military, Police, and local government to maintain security and stability in the Riau region. The event reinforced a shared commitment to serving the people and preserving local cultural values.

UAD Students Turn Tofu Waste into Unique Yogyakarta Souvenirs

A team of students from Universitas Ahmad Dahlan (UAD) has developed an innovative business converting tofu dregs into eco-friendly souvenirs, securing funding from the 2026 Student Entrepreneur Development Programme. The initiative, named TOFILOKA, addresses environmental waste issues while catering to the growing tourist demand for distinctive local mementos. The project aims to boost the circular economy, empower small enterprises, and establish the products as iconic Yogyakarta keepsakes.

Bandung Regent Vows Strict Action Against Health Workers Bullying Patients

Bandung Regent Dadang Supriatna has expressed deep concern and ordered strict sanctions against healthcare workers who bullied a patient on social media. The Regent has instructed the local personnel agency to process the punishment, which could include termination, for the contract-based government employee. He emphasised that such ethical violations in public service will not be tolerated and called for reinforced character building among all civil servants.

LCGC Sales Slump as Boxy SUVs Gain Traction in Indonesia

Sales of Low Cost Green Cars (LCGC) in Indonesia have declined, while the sport utility vehicle (SUV) segment, particularly models with boxy designs, is experiencing a surge in popularity. Data from Gaikindo indicates a shift in consumer preference towards rugged-styled vehicles, with both Chinese and Japanese manufacturers expanding their offerings in this growing niche. The trend reflects a demand for vehicles perceived as tough and suitable for both urban and out-of-town travel.

Ministry of Forestry Releases 15 Waterbirds in North Jakarta's Angke Nature Park

The Ministry of Forestry has released 15 waterbirds, including the protected black-headed ibis, into the Angke Nature Tourism Park in North Jakarta as part of a nationwide ecosystem restoration effort. The release, led by Minister Raja Juli Antoni, aims to restore ecological function and biodiversity in the urban wetland area. The initiative also involved mangrove planting, reinforcing the park's role as a critical green belt for coastal protection and carbon storage in the capital.

Minister: Adaptive Strategy Drives Positive Growth in Indonesia's Tourism Sector

Indonesia's tourism sector recorded positive growth across key indicators in the first half of 2026, driven by an adaptive government strategy. The strategy focused on market diversification, boosting domestic travel, and enhancing destination quality, resulting in increased foreign visitor spending and a significant rise in tourism investment. The sector's performance contributed substantially to national economic growth, particularly in accommodation, transport, and related services.

BNI and Prasetiya Mulya University Partner to Strengthen Campus Financial Ecosystem

State-owned bank BNI has entered into a strategic partnership with Prasetiya Mulya University to expand financial service penetration within the academic environment. The collaboration aims to provide integrated banking solutions, including education financing, digital payments, and consumer credit for the entire academic community. The initiative is part of BNI's broader commitment to modernising educational ecosystems and supporting human resource development in Indonesia.

East Java Government Leases Airbus PK-DAP Helicopter to Combat Mount Bromo Fires

The East Java provincial government has leased an Airbus helicopter to bolster firefighting efforts as wildfires in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park (TNBTS) expand to 520 hectares. The additional aircraft joins existing water bombing operations coordinated with the national disaster agency, military, and volunteers. The ongoing fires, exacerbated by the dry season and El Niño, have led to the closure of tourist entry points, impacting the local economy.

BRI Strengthens Housing Financing at Danantara Housing Expo 2026

Bank BRI is spearheading the Danantara Housing Expo 2026 as part of a national initiative to expand home ownership. The event, supporting the government's 3 Million Houses programme, will showcase over 200,000 housing units and offer special mortgage rates. BRI's leadership aims to stimulate local economies and create opportunities for MSMEs through the housing sector's multiplier effect.

Taxation of Rental Homes from 2027? DJP Issues Latest Clarification

Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has clarified that there is no specific 2027 work programme targeting owners of rental homes, despite earlier government signals about expanding the tax base. The DJP emphasised that income from property rentals is already a taxable object under existing Income Tax (PPh) regulations, not a new tax. The authority stated it will continue to use a data-driven, risk-based approach to compliance, considering fairness and economic conditions.

BPK Finds ESDM and IPK Ministry Financial Reports Fairly Presented

The Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) has issued an unqualified opinion (WTP) for the 2025 financial reports of both the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources and the Coordinating Ministry for Infrastructure and Regional Development. The achievement reflects strengthened internal controls and financial governance, though the BPK noted areas requiring improvement. Recommendations include refining the legal basis for non-tax state revenue management and enhancing oversight of mining sector guarantees.

IMPC develops international-standard polymer training center

PT Impack Pratama Industri Tbk has established the IPSI polymer training centre, investing Rp250 billion to develop a skilled workforce for Indonesia's plastics and polymer industry. The initiative, which includes a Training of Trainers programme with international partner SKZ, aims to support government efforts to reduce unemployment and provide industry-relevant skills to high school graduates and professionals. The centre will offer specialised programmes in polymer science, manufacturing, and equipment maintenance to meet evolving industry demands.

KPK Examines Wife of Blueray Boss in Customs Case Development

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has examined Vina Purnamasari, the wife of convicted Blueray Cargo boss John Field, as a witness in the ongoing development of a graft case at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. The investigation has expanded with a new suspect, Gatot Heroe, a customs official from Kediri, and the issuance of two new investigation warrants. The case originated from a sting operation and has already seen several private sector and customs officials convicted or put on trial for bribery and gratification.

Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education Wins Popular Government Institution Award 2026

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen) has been honoured with the Popular Government Institution Award 2026 at the 7th Indonesia Public Relations Summit. Minister Abdul Mu'ti highlighted the critical need for public communicators to distinguish between disruptive 'noise' and substantive 'voice' amidst the digital information flood. He stressed that building public trust requires communication rooted in accuracy, integrity, empathy, and the practice of deep listening.

Lawyer: Out of 432 witnesses, none said Yaqut received money

The legal team for former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has stated that none of the 432 witnesses cited in the KPK indictment have linked him to illicit funds in the hajj quota corruption case. They also claim that over Rp100 billion in assets seized by the anti-graft agency are unrelated to their client. The defence has further suggested that a sum of 1 million US dollars previously mentioned in connection with a House of Representatives special committee may have been extortion rather than a bribe.

West Sumatra Police Director Reaches Peace with Assault Victim

A senior West Sumatra police officer, Director of General Criminal Investigation Kombes Teddy Fanani, has avoided criminal and ethical proceedings after reaching a peace agreement with a man he allegedly assaulted. The victim's family withdrew their police report, leading the deputy police chief to state the case is closed, though the officer will receive a formal warning. The incident, which occurred during a traffic altercation, has prompted a public apology from the police force.

BPS Explains Latest Prices of Rice, Cooking Oil, and Garlic

Statistics Indonesia (BPS) reports that rice and cooking oil prices remain above government reference levels in early August 2026, despite minimal monthly changes. Garlic prices, however, have begun to decline significantly, with fewer regions experiencing price hikes, supported by substantial imports of nearly 230,000 tonnes in the first half of the year.

531 Thugs Arrested in Bandung Regency for Disturbing Public Order

Police in Bandung Regency have detained 531 individuals involved in thuggery and extortion between June and July 2026. The arrests are part of an ongoing crackdown to restore public safety and security. Authorities have urged residents to report any criminal activity via the 110 hotline.

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi Threatens to Withhold Village Funds Over Illegal Drug Distribution

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has issued a stern warning that he will suspend government assistance to any village or sub-district found to be tolerating the circulation of illegal pharmaceuticals. He argues that financial aid must be accompanied by a moral responsibility to maintain public order, particularly to protect the youth. The governor made the remarks following a series of drug busts and growing concerns over the open sale of hard drugs in the region.

Indonesia says no rice imports planned for 2026 amid El Nino threat

The Indonesian government has stated it does not plan to import rice in 2026, citing sufficient domestic production and stockpiles despite the looming threat of El Nino. Agriculture Ministry adviser Hasil Sembiring noted that projected output for the January–September period is higher than the previous year, while state logistics agency Bulog holds ample reserves. The government is also deploying water pumps and promoting drought-resistant crop varieties to mitigate the impact of potential dry conditions.

Forestry Ministry uncovers illegal sale of protected forest land in South Sulawesi

The Ministry of Forestry has exposed a scheme involving the illegal sale and cultivation of protected forest areas in East Luwu Regency, South Sulawesi, leading to the arrest of three suspects. The perpetrators were caught clearing 1.5 hectares of land to plant pepper without any legal permits, highlighting a pattern of informal land transactions that fuels further encroachment. Officials stress that state forest land cannot be sold or transferred outside legal mechanisms, and the enforcement aims to break the chain of illegal practices threatening forest sustainability.

MPR Speaker Says Trend of Unqualified Government Audit Opinions Is Improving

The Speaker of Indonesia's People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), Ahmad Muzani, has noted a positive trend in state financial management, with more government entities receiving Unqualified (WTP) audit opinions from the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK). He described the development as good news for governance, emphasising that it reflects compliance with government accounting standards. The remarks were made during a meeting with BPK leaders ahead of the MPR Annual Session scheduled for 14 August 2026.

Customs and Police Foil Smuggling of 30kg of Methamphetamine from Malaysia

Indonesian customs and police have intercepted 30 kilogrammes of crystal methamphetamine being smuggled from Malaysia via the waters of Asahan, North Sumatra. The drugs, disguised in Chinese tea packaging, were seized during a joint maritime patrol, and one suspect was arrested while two others escaped. Authorities estimate the seizure prevented potential abuse by 150,000 people and represents a street value of approximately IDR 239.84 billion.

Rupiah Strengthens for Fourth Consecutive Day, US Dollar Falls to Rp17,750

The Indonesian rupiah extended its winning streak to four days on Monday, closing sharply higher against the US dollar. The currency's rally was bolstered by the government's nomination of Destry Damayanti as the sole candidate for Bank Indonesia governor, providing policy certainty. External factors, including a weakening US labour market that dampened expectations of a Federal Reserve rate hike, also supported the rupiah's appreciation.

Jayapura Customs Foils Shipment of 16,000 Illegal Cigarettes via Postal Service

Customs officials in Jayapura intercepted 16,000 sticks of illegal cigarettes sent through the postal service from Madura. The seizure, valued at IDR 23.76 million, prevented an estimated IDR 11.9 million in state revenue losses. Authorities are investigating the distribution network and have reminded the postal service to report suspicious packages to strengthen enforcement against excise violations.

Finance Ministry Reveals Investments Yielding 7%, Outperforming Deposits

Indonesia's Ministry of Finance highlights government bonds as a more attractive investment than bank deposits, offering yields of up to 7% compared to the 2-3% typically offered by deposits. The ministry also noted the tax advantage, with bonds taxed at just 10% versus 20% for deposit interest. A new retail sukuk series, SR025, is set to be offered from late August to mid-September 2026.

DPR and Home Affairs Ministry Strengthen Population Data for Targeted Social Protection

Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) and the Ministry of Home Affairs are intensifying collaboration to ensure population data serves as an accurate foundation for social protection programmes. The initiative focuses on proactive 'door-to-door' civil registration services and digital identity verification to improve the precision of aid distribution. Balikpapan was recognised for its high performance in utilising face recognition technology for social protection purposes.

Midwives Urged Not to Fear Medical Action if Following SOP

Samarinda's Mayor has reassured midwives that the law is designed to protect, not intimidate, healthcare workers who adhere to professional standards. He stressed that comprehensive compliance with regulations, including proper documentation and informed consent, forms the core of legal protection. The mayor also highlighted the importance of media literacy and the right to legally challenge damaging press coverage.

State Secretary Reveals Details of Meeting with TNI Commander and National Police Chief at DPR

State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi disclosed that a coordination meeting with parliamentary leaders, the TNI Commander, and the National Police Chief focused on strategic issues, including preparations for the annual session and the 81st Independence Day commemoration. He assured that security arrangements are well in hand and expressed appreciation for the public's creative initiatives celebrating the month of independence. The TNI Commander also urged the public not to be provoked by unverified information on social media.

Minister Reveals Proposal to Rename 'Pemulung' to 'Pemilah Sampah'

The Indonesian government is proposing to formally change the job title of waste pickers from 'pemulung' to 'pemilah sampah' (waste sorters) to better reflect their role and integrate them into the formal employment system. The Manpower Minister announced the change will be codified in the national occupation classification, while the Environment Minister outlined plans for a Producer Responsibility Organization scheme to fund better protections. This move follows safety concerns, including a fatal landslide at the Bantargebang landfill that affected several workers.

Bandung's Husein Sastranegara Airport to Resume Jet and International Flights After Kertajati Setback

Bandung's Husein Sastranegara Airport is set to resume jet and international flight operations this week, according to Mayor Muhammad Farhan. The move comes after the airport's commercial flights were gradually shifted to Kertajati in October 2023, a transition that proved suboptimal. Eight airlines are now preparing to operate from the newly designated international airport.

Grain Price Hike: Bulog Policy Spurs Penajam Paser Utara Farmers to Cultivate Rice Fields

A state logistics agency policy to purchase unhusked rice at Rp 6,500 per kilogram has revitalised farming in Penajam Paser Utara, East Kalimantan. The guaranteed price floor has also prompted middlemen to offer even higher rates, improving market options for farmers. Local authorities are coordinating with Bulog to ensure the absorption of an estimated 22,000 tonnes of grain during the second harvest period, which peaks in late August.

When education does not differentiate students' backgrounds

SMP Negeri 15 Yogyakarta exemplifies inclusive education by not discriminating based on gender, ethnicity, religion, or disability. The school has been recognised with multiple awards, including the Child-Friendly School award from the Governor of Yogyakarta. Its core philosophy centres on providing a safe, comfortable learning environment that accommodates all children, including those with special needs.

Alfamidi Sends 101 Outstanding Employees on Umrah Pilgrimage Over Five Years

PT Midi Utama Indonesia Tbk (Alfamidi) has dispatched 101 of its best-performing employees to the Holy Land through its Trip Reward Umrah programme, now in its fifth year. The initiative recognises staff for their performance, discipline, integrity, and contribution to operations and customer service. The company views the reward as both an appreciation of employee dedication and an opportunity to strengthen faith and motivation.

PERURI Wins Award for Security Technology Company Reputation

Indonesian state-owned security printing and technology firm PERURI has received an award at the 2026 Indonesia Public Relations Awards. The accolade recognises the company's consistency in building its reputation and communicating its transformation in the high-level security technology sector. PERURI emphasised that corporate communication is a strategic tool for strengthening stakeholder trust and supporting the company's ongoing evolution.

Govt, UI Launch Programme to Mobilise Economic Value of Mangroves

The Coordinating Ministry for Community Empowerment and the University of Indonesia have launched a programme to harness the economic value of mangroves, which account for nearly 20 per cent of the world's total. The initiative aims to empower local communities by creating incentives for industries that emit carbon to compensate regions that preserve mangrove forests. The government plans to develop supporting regulations and pilot projects, particularly along the northern coast of Java.

US and Israel Discuss Differences Over Gaza Plan Implementation

The United States and Israel are engaged in talks to resolve disagreements over the sequencing and timeline of a peace plan for Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has rejected a 15-point proposal, insisting the military will not withdraw until Hamas is fully disarmed. The discussions, described as differences among allies, focus on the details of the phased implementation.