Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 10 August 2026

Showing 801-850 of 1,377 articles

BIAS 2026 Kicks Off with Expanded HPV Vaccination for Boys

Indonesia's annual School Child Immunisation Month (BIAS) has commenced for 2026, delivering measles-rubella and HPV vaccines to primary school students. A key new element this year is the phased introduction of the HPV vaccine for 11-year-old boys, starting in Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and Bali. The programme also includes free health screenings to monitor children's growth and development.

Jatinangor Educational Zone Declared Off-Limits to Large Trucks

The Sumedang Regency Government has prohibited large trucks from passing through the Jatinangor educational area, redirecting them to the Cisumdawu Toll Road to improve safety. Bupati Dony Ahmad Munir stated that the policy aims to reduce congestion and accident risks in the densely populated university zone. The local government is also collaborating with the Ministry of Public Works to beautify the area by repainting road curbs.

Bromo Tourist Access Closed Due to Forest Fires, Business Revenue Plummets 70 Percent

The closure of four access points to Mount Bromo following a large wildfire has severely impacted the local economy. Traders and accommodation owners report a dramatic drop in income, with some vendors seeing daily revenue fall by up to 70 per cent. Business owners are hoping for a swift resolution to the fires so that tourism and their livelihoods can return to normal.

Minister of Immigration and Corrections Launches Free Cataract Surgery, Delivers Two Key Messages

Minister of Immigration and Corrections Agus Andrianto launched a free cataract surgery and health check programme, emphasising the state's commitment to protecting citizens' basic right to health. The initiative, which served 81 surgery patients and provided health checks for over 2,000 inmates, was framed as a tangible contribution to President Prabowo Subianto's broader public health goals. The minister called for sustained collaboration across ministries and the private sector to expand free health services for communities and inmates alike.

Attorney General's Office Holds Nationwide Auction to Optimise Non-Tax State Revenue

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office (AGO) Asset Recovery Agency is conducting a simultaneous auction across 365 district prosecutor's offices to sell seized assets. The initiative aims to optimise Non-Tax State Revenue (PNBP) with a projected total limit value of approximately IDR 289 billion. The AGO stated the auction also serves to prevent the depreciation of evidence and reduce storage costs while promoting transparency and accountability in asset management.

The Hidden Staircase in Puncak: Tracing the History of Soekarno's Riung Gunung Coffee House

A mysterious staircase in the Puncak area leads to the ruins of the Riung Gunung Coffee House, a historic site built in the 1950s. Originally constructed as a rest house for President Soekarno, the building was later operated by Hotel Indonesia as a popular coffee house during the 1960s, hosting international dignitaries. The site is now inaccessible and largely forgotten, though recent social media attention has sparked public curiosity and calls for its restoration.

AGO Asset Recovery Agency Holds Auction: Mobile Phones from Rp 3,000, Land up to Rp 9.1 Billion

The Attorney General's Office Asset Recovery Agency is holding a nationwide auction featuring items ranging from a mobile phone with a starting bid of Rp 3,000 to a plot of land valued at Rp 9.1 billion. The initiative, part of the office's 81st anniversary, aims to boost non-tax state revenue and accelerate the resolution of seized assets. Officials emphasised that the auction demonstrates transparency and integrity in managing recovered assets for the benefit of the state and the public.

Mud Eruption Appears in Blora, Indonesia's Geological Agency Issues Warning

Indonesia's Geological Agency has warned the public to stay away from a mud eruption site in the Oro-oro Kesongo geotourism area in Blora, Central Java. The agency is investigating the phenomenon, which resembles the Lapindo mudflow, and cautions about potential hazards from ejected material and dangerous gases. A field verification is being conducted to assess the current geological conditions and risk level.

Central Java Farmers Use Solar-Powered Pumps to Cut Production Costs

Farmers in Central Java are adopting solar-powered water pumps to reduce reliance on diesel fuel and lower production costs. The initiative, part of the provincial government's food security programme, integrates renewable energy and IoT technology. Officials plan to expand the pilot project across the region and potentially nationwide.

Pramono Targets Transjakarta to Serve Thousand Islands by 2027

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has announced plans for Transjakarta to take over transport services to the Kepulauan Seribu regency by 2027. The move aims to improve efficiency and service quality, replacing the current management by the Jakarta Transportation Agency. Pramono cited Transjakarta's strong performance and rising passenger numbers as key reasons for the transfer.

Coordinating Minister PMK: Integrated National Schools Transform Education Governance

Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno has stated that the Integrated National School (SNT) programme represents a transformation of education governance by merging multiple schools under a single management. The integration aims to ensure curriculum continuity across educational levels and improve the efficiency of services and infrastructure. Pratikno has called on regional leaders to support the programme's implementation and expand its reach.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Holds Informal Meeting with Tycoon Haji Isam

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya met with prominent businessman Haji Isam to discuss investment developments in mining, downstream processing, agribusiness, energy, and logistics. The meeting underscored the government's commitment to fostering a conducive investment climate and strengthening collaboration with the private sector. This engagement follows similar discussions with other national business figures, signalling a concerted push to accelerate economic growth.

Survey: 81.3% of Public Satisfied with Prabowo's Performance, but Economic Concerns Linger

A survey by the FSP BUMN Bersatu reveals that 81.3% of respondents are satisfied with President Prabowo Subianto's leadership, viewing him as an 'enlightening leader'. While public satisfaction with political and legal performance remains high, the survey also highlights significant public anxiety regarding household economic conditions. Despite 74.8% optimism for future economic improvement, 21.6% expect a downturn, prompting a call for the government to take note of prevailing economic trends.

Farmers Protest Egg Price Slump, Yogyakarta Government Points to Brokers

Poultry farmers in Yogyakarta protested plummeting egg prices by distributing free spent hens in Malioboro. The regional government acknowledged the oversupply and high feed costs, while highlighting the role of brokers in disrupting the distribution chain for the free nutritious meal programme. Farmers reported selling eggs at a loss, with prices falling below production costs.

Online Taxi Driver Begs for Forgiveness After Assaulting Passenger in West Jakarta

An online taxi driver in West Jakarta has been arrested and named a suspect after allegedly sexually assaulting a female passenger. A video of the suspect being surrounded by an angry mob and begging for mercy went viral on social media. The case is being handled by the West Jakarta Police's Women and Children Protection and Human Trafficking Unit.

Israeli Military Suddenly Closes Access to Palestinian Christian Village, What's Happening?

The Israeli military has declared the West Bank village of Taybeh a closed military zone for non-residents, citing a need to curb violent attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians. Taybeh is notable as one of the few remaining Christian villages in the West Bank and home to the region's oldest microbrewery. The closure highlights the vulnerability of the dwindling Palestinian Christian community amid escalating settler violence, which has drawn international sanctions and a UN investigation implicating Israeli authorities.

76 Percent of Parents of Neurodivergent Children Recognised Differences Before Diagnosis

A survey by Atelier of Minds reveals that 76 percent of parents of neurodivergent children in Indonesia noticed developmental differences before receiving a medical diagnosis. The findings highlight significant challenges, including difficulties in accessing accurate information, financial barriers to sustained therapy, and deep-seated parental anxiety about their children's future independence. The study underscores a need for better professional support, affordable services, and more active community networks across the country.

US claims Iran prioritises asset unfreezing in peace negotiations

The United States has alleged that Iran is primarily focused on financial matters, particularly the release of frozen assets, during ongoing negotiations. US Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz claimed Iranian negotiators are more concerned about economic pressure than military threats. The remarks come amid heightened tensions following the collapse of a ceasefire agreement and reciprocal military strikes.

Bigmo Complies with Police Summons Over Vape Promotion Involving Children

YouTuber Muhammad Jannah, known as Bigmo, has complied with a police summons for questioning regarding the alleged promotion of vape liquid involving minors. The case has drawn attention from the Minister of Communication and Digital, who stated that exploiting children to promote such products is a serious violation. Bigmo has previously issued a public apology for his actions.

Drought Affects 15,531 Residents Across Three Regencies in Gorontalo

The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) of Gorontalo Province has reported that 15,531 people across three regencies are suffering from drought and a clean water crisis. Authorities are intensifying the distribution of clean water, prioritising villages with depleted water sources. Cross-sector collaboration is being emphasised to ensure basic needs are met during the prolonged dry season.

Sutrimo Death Case Elevated to Investigation, Police to Probe Suspected Premeditated Murder

The case surrounding the death of Sutrimo, found deceased outside a clinic in South Jakarta, has been upgraded to a formal investigation. Police are now probing allegations of murder or premeditated murder following a report from the family. An exhumation of the victim's body is scheduled to take place in Banyumas to determine the exact cause of death.

68-Year-Old Man Burns 1.5 Hectares of Land in Riau to Chase Away Mosquitoes

A 68-year-old man in Indragiri Hulu, Riau, has been arrested after a fire he lit to repel mosquitoes spread uncontrollably, destroying 1.5 hectares of oil palm plantation. The suspect, identified as JS, now faces multiple charges under Indonesia's environmental and plantation laws. Police have emphasised that the case reflects their commitment to cracking down on all forest and land fires, regardless of intent.

Trade Ministry: Indonesian Art Toys Secure Rp17 Billion in Potential Transactions in Korea

Indonesia's participation in the Urban Break & Toy Con Seoul 2026 has yielded potential transactions worth 1 million US dollars (approximately Rp17 billion), more than doubling the previous year's figure. The Ministry of Trade highlighted the strong international interest in the country's designer toys and creative services. The event served as a platform for 21 Indonesian creators to connect with around 400 prospective buyers and study the South Korean market.

Police Investigate Legality of School Extracurricular Activity After Discovery of 995 Airsoft Guns

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police are investigating the licensing and legality of a school's extracurricular programme in South Jakarta following the discovery of 995 airsoft guns on the premises. Authorities are verifying whether the school held official permits for the shooting club and if the storage of the items complied with regulations. The case has been complicated by a claim from a shooting sports company asserting legal ownership of the devices.

What Indonesia Needs to Achieve 7 Percent Economic Growth

Economist Didik J. Rachbini has called for Indonesia to adopt an export-oriented economic strategy to boost growth to 7-8 percent, arguing that the current domestic-focused policies are insufficient. He highlighted the success of similar outward-looking policies in the 1980s and warned that reliance on government spending and household consumption is unsustainable. The government reported 5.29 percent growth in the second quarter of 2026, with officials remaining optimistic about an acceleration in the second half of the year.

State Secretary Holds Meeting with DPR to Finalise Presidential Regulation on Online Motorcycle Taxis

Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi met with House of Representatives (DPR) leaders to finalise a Presidential Regulation concerning online motorcycle taxis (ojol). The regulation, which includes a 92:8 revenue-sharing scheme between drivers and application providers, is targeted for issuance before 17 August 2026. The new rules will also expand to cover goods and food delivery services, though passenger car services are not yet included.

UI Doctor Designs Hybrid Fiscal Policy Model for Coal

A doctoral graduate from the University of Indonesia has developed a hybrid fiscal policy model to optimise state revenue from coal windfall profits. The proposed two-tier system combines a sliding scale royalty for revenue stability with a conditional windfall profit tax triggered by price surges. The research aims to help the government design a more adaptive mining fiscal framework that captures extraordinary profits while maintaining investment certainty.

Sheikh Asnawi al-Bantani and the Laskar Mujahidin's Sabotage of Colonial Telecommunication Lines

Sheikh Tubagus Muhammad Asnawi al-Bantani, a prominent Bantenese cleric, led the Laskar Mujahidin in a strategic sabotage of Dutch colonial telephone networks in Jakarta during the 1926 uprising. Viewing the communication lines as tools of colonial oppression, the cleric and his followers disrupted the infrastructure to hinder Dutch control. This act was a prelude to a broader, though ultimately limited, armed resistance across the archipelago, culminating in a fierce battle at the Sanggoma bridge in Banten.

Muhammadiyah and 'Aisyiyah Universities Empower Elderly Through Creative Economy Literacy

The Association of Muhammadiyah and 'Aisyiyah Higher Education Management Programmes (APSMA PTMA) has launched a national community service initiative in South Tangerang to empower elderly citizens. The programme focuses on fostering entrepreneurial mindsets and providing training in creative economy skills, such as crafting marketable products from recycled plastic waste. The initiative aims to enhance the productivity, independence, and quality of life for senior community members.

West Java Government to Oversee Effective, Targeted Implementation of 3 Million Homes Programme

The West Java Provincial Government has pledged to rigorously oversee the implementation of President Prabowo Subianto's flagship 3 Million Homes Programme. Regional Secretary Herman Suryatman stressed that the initiative must be executed with integrity and transparency to ensure it genuinely benefits those in need. The focus is now shifting to on-the-ground implementation starting September 2026, with a call for all 27 regencies and cities to ensure the construction is effective and well-targeted.

CORE: Government Stimulus for Industry Could Open Formal Employment Opportunities

The Indonesian government's provision of stimulus to the industrial sector could unlock formal employment, particularly in labour-intensive industries, according to the Center of Reform on Economics (CORE). Executive Director Mohammad Faisal argued that fiscal incentives for the private sector are essential, as the government cannot create jobs alone. He added that attracting investment into labour-intensive sectors would boost formal job growth, raise incomes, and strengthen social protection and consumption.

Rupiah's Endless Drama: From Colonial Times, Crisis to Today

The rupiah's journey from a tool of colonial trade to a symbol of national sovereignty has been marked by repeated upheavals, including redenominations and the devastating 1998 monetary crisis. Ahead of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, the currency's history reflects the nation's struggle with economic stability, from the use of shells and foreign coins to its formal establishment after the Round Table Conference. The article traces the rupiah's evolution through royal coinage, Japanese invasion currency, and the eventual unification of the monetary system by 1971.

Peaceful Protest: Thousands of Eggs and Chickens Distributed Free in Malioboro

Yogyakarta poultry farmers staged a protest by giving away thousands of laying hens in Malioboro to highlight their plight. The farmers are suffering losses as feed costs have soared to Rp8,000 per kilogram while egg prices have collapsed below Rp20,000 due to oversupply. They are demanding government intervention to stabilise feed prices, ensure fair egg pricing, and regulate the industry.

West Bandung Regent Stresses Equal Service for BPJS and General Patients at Cikalongwetan Hospital Anniversary

West Bandung Regent Jeje Ritchie Ismail called for equal medical treatment for all patients, regardless of whether they use the national health insurance (BPJS) or pay privately, during the 19th anniversary of RSUD Cikalongwetan. He urged hospital staff to prioritise patient care over administrative procedures and instructed specialist doctors to be punctual. The regional government also pledged to improve and expand health facilities to optimise public service.

Istiqlal Mosque Enters Stock Exchange, Buya Anwar Abbas Warns of Cash Waqf Investment Risks

The Istiqlal Global Fund (IGF) has made a groundbreaking move by entering the Indonesia Stock Exchange ecosystem to productively invest cash waqf funds in sharia-compliant shares. While the initiative has been praised for its innovation, Buya Anwar Abbas has cautioned against the high risks of stock market volatility, which could erode the principal value of the waqf. He recommends investing in safer government sukuk to ensure the principal is protected and returns are paid periodically.

Government to Rename 'Scavengers' to 'Waste Sorters'

The Indonesian government is preparing to formally change the job title of 'pemulung' (scavengers) to 'pemilah sampah' (waste sorters) in the national job classification system. The move aims to formalise the informal waste picking sector, with plans to integrate workers into a Producer Responsibility Organization scheme and expand social protection coverage following recent fatal accidents at landfill sites.

Bank Jakarta and Persija: From Sponsorship to Strategic Partnership

Bank Jakarta has elevated its collaboration with Persija Jakarta from a standard sponsorship to a strategic partnership for the 2026โ€“2027 season. The 'United for Jakarta' initiative aims to integrate the football club's ecosystem with the bank's digital financial services. The launch also marked the introduction of Bank Jakarta's new digital identity, aligning with the city's transformation towards becoming a global hub.

DPR and Government Hold Finalisation Meeting on Online Transport Worker Presidential Regulation

The Indonesian government and the House of Representatives (DPR) convened a coordination meeting to finalise Presidential Regulation No. 27 of 2026 concerning the protection of online transport workers. The meeting, held at the Parliament Complex in Senayan, Jakarta, was attended by several key ministers and the Deputy Speaker of the DPR. The regulation aims to refine existing rules, even as platform operators have already implemented a mandatory fare deduction scheme of 8 per cent for drivers.

Bareskrim Uncovers 12 Kg of Cannabis Smuggled in Children's Clothing Packages

The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has intercepted a shipment of 12.135 kilograms of cannabis concealed within packages of children's clothing. The narcotics were discovered during a routine inspection of a truck at Bakauheni Port, Lampung, en route to Lombok. After a controlled delivery operation, the package was returned to the sender's origin in Jakarta when the intended recipient failed to collect it, and the evidence is now being processed further.

Jakarta LRT Phase 1B 97.99 Percent Complete, Set for August Finish

Construction of the Jakarta LRT Phase 1B connecting Velodrome to Manggarai has reached 97.99 percent completion, with state-owned contractor Waskita Karya targeting an August handover. The Rp4.1 trillion project includes five new stations and is expected to be inaugurated by President Prabowo Subianto. The line is designed to integrate with other public transport networks to ease mobility and reduce private vehicle use.

Hino Digitises Pre-Delivery Inspection to Enhance Commercial Vehicle Safety Standards

PT Hino Motors Sales Indonesia (HMSI) is transitioning from manual to digital Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) processes to improve quality control for commercial vehicles. The new cloud-based system ensures inspection results are more transparent, consistent, and traceable before vehicles are handed over to customers. This initiative, discussed at the GAIKINDO Indonesia International Auto Show, is part of a broader effort to standardise bodybuilding processes with karoseri partners.

Police Investigate Alleged Premeditated Murder in Death of Former Official's Household Head

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police have elevated the case of Sutrimo, the deceased household head of a former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes, to a formal investigation. Authorities are probing suspected premeditated murder following a family report citing irregularities in his death. An exhumation of the body is scheduled in Banyumas, Central Java, to gather further evidence.

Thailand Ready to Welcome 191 Countries to the 2026 Annual Meetings

Thailand is preparing to host the 2026 Annual Meetings of the IMF and World Bank Group in Bangkok, marking a historic return since its debut in 1991. The event will gather over 15,000 delegates to discuss global economic challenges under the theme of empowering people and building resilience, with a focus on digital transformation and sustainable finance. The government is accelerating preparations through a national campaign, aiming to stimulate the economy and showcase Thailand's leadership in digital financial infrastructure.

State Secretary Submits Presidential Letters on OJK Commissioner and Ambassador Candidates to DPR

Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has formally submitted three presidential letters to the House of Representatives (DPR), including nominations for the OJK Board of Commissioners and new ambassadors. The letters were received by DPR Speaker Puan Maharani and Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad at the parliament complex in Jakarta. The government has also proposed Destry Damayanti as a candidate for Bank Indonesia Governor.

Airlangga Highlights VAT and Income Tax on EGR Transactions

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has urged clarity on the tax treatment of Electronic Gold Receipt transactions to support the newly launched gold ETF market. He specifically raised the application of Value Added Tax and Article 22 Income Tax, noting discussions with the Deputy Minister of Finance and the Director General of Taxes. The move aims to create a level playing field for EGR trading compared to other exchange-traded instruments.

MIND ID Expands Bauxite Downstreaming to Rare Earth Elements

Indonesia's state-owned mining holding company MIND ID is broadening its bauxite downstreaming strategy to include the development of rare earth elements (REE). The initiative aims to create new economic value by extracting REE from mineral processing by-products, with the company already exporting alumina products to global markets. MIND ID is collaborating with government bodies to establish a national processing roadmap and is seeking regulatory clarity on thresholds for REE extraction.

Despicable Profession Faces Extinction, Its Replacement Far More Wicked

New research reveals that artificial intelligence chatbots are significantly more effective at perpetrating 'pig butchering' scams than human fraudsters. In a controlled experiment, an AI model successfully persuaded 46 percent of targets to comply with its requests, compared to just 18 percent for human scammers. The findings suggest that AI could soon replace human operators in large-scale scam operations, posing a more efficient and relentless threat.

AGO Holds Simultaneous Auction, Potential State Asset Recovery of IDR 289.3 Billion

The Attorney General's Office (AGO) is conducting a nationwide simultaneous auction from 10 to 14 August, targeting the recovery of state assets with a limit value of IDR 289.3 billion. The initiative, led by the Asset Recovery Agency, involves hundreds of district prosecutor's offices across Indonesia. Officials emphasised that asset recovery is an integral part of justice, ensuring that financial losses to the state are returned for public benefit.

Free Health Checks at Cipinang Prison Aim for Early Detection of Tuberculosis Among Inmates

The East Jakarta Health Sub-agency conducted a free health check programme at Cipinang Prison, integrating general screenings with targeted tuberculosis (TBC) detection. The initiative, part of Indonesia's 77th Independence Day commemorations, aims to identify potential TBC transmission early within the high-density prison environment. Officials emphasised that inmates have a right to comprehensive health services, and early detection is crucial to prevent wider outbreaks.

Len strengthens engineering and integration capabilities for electric vehicle technology

PT Len Industri is enhancing its system engineering and technology integration capabilities for national electric vehicles, covering battery systems, power management, and supporting infrastructure. The company's president director emphasised that EV reliability depends on the harmony of all subsystems, not just battery quality. Len is also focusing on user experience factors such as spare parts availability and charging infrastructure to build public trust.