Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 10 August 2026

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Gus Ipul Inspects Tambakberas Readiness Ahead of NU Congress

Saifullah Yusuf, Secretary General of the Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) Executive Board, has personally inspected accommodation preparations at UNWAHA campus in Jombang for the upcoming 35th NU Congress. The event, scheduled for late August 2026, is being held at the historic Tambakberas Islamic boarding school, a site closely linked to the organisation's founders. Organisers are finalising logistics and have extended an invitation to President Prabowo Subianto to open the congress.

Haji Isam Visits Cabinet Secretary Teddy's Office to Discuss Investment in Indonesia

National entrepreneur Haji Isam met with Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya in Jakarta to discuss investment developments across several key sectors. The talks focused on mining, downstream processing, agribusiness, energy, and logistics as part of efforts to bolster national economic growth. The government reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a conducive investment climate and strengthening collaboration with businesses.

Indonesia and UAE Explore New Trade and Investment Opportunities

Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates are seeking to maximise the benefits of their Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IUAE-CEPA), which entered its third year. Trade Minister Budi Santoso and UAE Minister Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi discussed resolving implementation issues and boosting bilateral trade, which reached USD 3.14 billion in the first half of 2026. The UAE also plans to send a business delegation to Indonesia to identify new cooperation opportunities.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Receives Businessman Haji Isam for Investment and Downstreaming Talks

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya met with prominent Indonesian businessman Andi Syamsuddin Arsyad, known as Haji Isam, in Jakarta to discuss investment developments. The talks focused on strengthening economic growth through collaboration in mining, downstreaming, agribusiness, energy, and logistics. The government reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a healthy investment climate to accelerate domestic value addition and job creation.

Prosecutor Who Served Under Nadiem Advised to Be Removed from Febrie Adriansyah Investigation Team

Legal observer Kamilov Sagala has urged the Attorney General's Office to remove prosecutor Chatarina Muliana Girsang from the special team investigating former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah. Girsang previously served as Inspector General at the Ministry of Education under Nadiem Makarim, whose corruption case was handled by Adriansyah's office. Sagala argues this prior working relationship creates a potential conflict of interest that could undermine the investigation's independence.

ATI to Hold FGD on Toll Road Infrastructure

The Indonesian Toll Road Association (ATI) is set to host a focus group discussion in Jakarta on 12 August 2026, focusing on aligning the toll road ecosystem for sustainable development. The forum aims to address challenges such as limited government financing, the impact of overloaded vehicles, and the need for private investment, with key ministers and experts expected to attend. The resulting recommendations will be submitted to the government as a strategic white paper to shape future toll road policy.

KSP: Integrated National Schools Mark New Milestone in National Education Ecosystem

The Presidential Staff Office (KSP) has launched the first batch of Integrated National Schools (SNT) across 17 locations, from Sumatra to Papua, as a strategic intervention to equalise access to quality education. KSP Chief Dudung Abdurachman emphasised that the programme is a key part of President Prabowo's vision, positioning educational investment as the foundation for national progress. The initiative aims to nurture Indonesia's future 'golden generation' through improved infrastructure and character development.

Apple Tests Chinese-Made Chips for New iPhones Amid Worsening Supply Crisis

Apple is reportedly testing memory chips from China's CXMT for use in iPhones and MacBooks as it grapples with a global component shortage driven by surging AI demand. The move comes despite the company's positive sales performance, with executives warning that significant supply constraints will limit future revenue growth. The potential shift highlights how the ongoing chip crisis is forcing major US tech firms to diversify their supply chains.

Veronica Tan: Strengthen Women's Representation Down to the Village Government Level

Deputy Minister for Women's Empowerment and Child Protection, Veronica Tan, has proposed strengthening women's leadership and representation in decision-making at all levels of government, including villages. She emphasised the need for capacity building and a supportive ecosystem to enable women's participation. The initiative was discussed with Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian, who will review village governance regulations to identify opportunities for improvement.

TNI Commander Urges Public Not to Be Provoked by Hoaxes on Social Media

TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto has called on the Indonesian public to remain calm and not be provoked by unverified information circulating on social media. The appeal comes ahead of the 81st anniversary of Indonesia's independence, with the military chief emphasising his responsibility for public safety. The TNI is coordinating with the police and community groups to maintain security nationwide.

NCC Submarine Cable Strengthens Batam's Position as Indonesia's Digital Hub

The Nongsa-Changi Cable System (NCC) is set to enhance Batam's role as a digital hub, leveraging its strategic location near Singapore. The submarine cable project, developed by Telin and BW Digital, aims to provide high-capacity connectivity to support the growth of data centres, cloud services, and AI in the region. This infrastructure is expected to attract further investment and strengthen Indonesia's digital ecosystem.

Deputy Finance Minister Reassures Investors on Underlying Asset Clarity of Gold ETF

Deputy Finance Minister Juda Agung has moved to reassure investors that the newly launched Gold Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) is backed by clear, physical gold assets. The launch is part of a broader government effort to deepen Indonesia's capital market and expand investment options. The initiative aligns with ongoing capital market reforms led by the Financial Services Authority (OJK) and Self-Regulatory Organizations.

TNI Evacuates Resident Left Behind by Group Fleeing OPM Area in Papua

Indonesian military forces evacuated a civilian who was separated from a group fleeing a conflict zone in Central Papua. The individual was discovered during a patrol in an area known for Organisasi Papua Merdeka (OPM) activity and was airlifted to safety. The operation underscores the TNI's commitment to protecting residents from separatist violence.

Revealed: Iranian President Met Mojtaba Khamenei Last Month

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian held a meeting with Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei in late July, discussing military and economic issues including the conflict with the United States. The meeting was reported by state media amid conflicting statements from Pezeshkian about his access to the reclusive leader. Mojtaba Khamenei has not appeared in public since succeeding his late father in March, fuelling speculation about his health and relationships with other officials.

Attorney General's Office Summons 16 Witnesses in Free Nutritious Meal Programme Corruption Case

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has summoned 16 witnesses, including company directors and foundation representatives, as it deepens its investigation into alleged corruption within the National Nutrition Agency's free meal programme. The investigation has already seen over 80 witnesses examined, with authorities pledging a professional and independent probe. The case also involves a military personnel member whose case has been transferred to the military prosecutor's office.

UAS Appreciates Riau Police's 'Red and White Expedition' for Strengthening NKRI Unity

Islamic preacher Ustaz Abdul Somad (UAS) has praised the Riau Police for their 'Ekspedisi Merah Putih Presisi 2026' initiative, highlighting its role in reaching remote border areas like Concong in Indragiri Hilir. He emphasised that the programme not only delivers public services but also symbolically reinforces the unity of the Republic of Indonesia. The expedition, held to commemorate the 81st Independence Day, combines community service, nationalism, and environmental conservation efforts.

Rice, Cooking Oil, Egg and Chicken Prices Rise in Tandem, Here's the Full List

Bank Indonesia's National Strategic Food Price Information Centre reported mixed movements in staple food prices, with increases observed for lower-quality rice, eggs, fresh chicken, and bulk cooking oil. Meanwhile, prices for shallots, garlic, large red chillies, and beef experienced declines. The data provides a snapshot of current food commodity price volatility in the Indonesian market.

Governor: Construction of People's Schools in Pandeglang and Lebak to be Completed by May 2027

The Banten provincial government has announced that the construction of two new 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's Schools) in Pandeglang and Lebak regencies is targeted for completion by 31 May 2027. The first wave of development, funded by the state budget and executed by the Ministry of Public Works, is part of a broader initiative following President Prabowo Subianto's directive for each district or city to have at least one such school. The programme aims to expand free education access and reduce school dropout rates, with the province proposing additional locations in Tangerang City and Tangerang Regency.

Rise of Paid Hoax Industry: House Deputy Speaker Urges Police to Classify Perpetrators as State Enemies

Ahmad Sahroni, Deputy Speaker of Indonesia's House of Representatives, has called on the police to treat organised purveyors of paid hoaxes as enemies of the state. His remarks follow a Polda Metro Jaya investigation that uncovered a structured, for-profit operation involving third parties paid to produce criminal content. Sahroni stressed that while freedom of expression is guaranteed, intentionally misleading the public to create chaos must be eradicated.

Minister Proposes Rebranding 'Scavengers' as 'Waste Sorting Workers'

Indonesia's Environment Minister has proposed replacing the term 'pemulung' (scavenger) with 'waste sorting worker' to elevate the profession's status. The initiative, launched alongside the Manpower Minister, includes formalising their skills through national competency standards and providing subsidised workplace accident insurance. The move recognises the critical role these informal workers play in the nation's waste management infrastructure.

IDX Demutualisation: Will Danantara Join in Buying Shares?

The demutualisation of the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) is nearing completion, with the Danantara Investment Management Agency (BPI Danantara) signalling its intention to participate as an investor. Danantara's Chief Investment Officer confirmed ongoing coordination with the IDX and the Financial Services Authority (OJK), with the investment to be executed through its subsidiary, Danantara Investment Management. The process is targeted for completion by September 2026, as mandated by the Financial Sector Development and Strengthening Law.

YouTuber Bigmo to Be Questioned at Polda Metro Jaya on Monday Afternoon

Indonesian YouTuber Bigmo is scheduled for questioning by Polda Metro Jaya on Monday afternoon regarding a case involving the promotion of e-cigarettes (vapes) featuring children. Police have confirmed the content creator's attendance through his lawyer and are investigating potential violations of child protection laws. The case was brought forward by a complainant who documented the promotional video allegedly involving minors.

TNI's Habema Operation evacuates resident amid conflict in Ugimba, Central Papua

Soldiers from the Indonesian National Armed Forces' (TNI) Habema Operational Command evacuated a local resident requiring medical assistance from the conflict-prone Ugimba District in Central Papua. The evacuation, conducted via helicopter, underscores the military's commitment to prioritising civilian safety and humanitarian aid alongside its security operations. The individual was handed over to the local conflict management team in Sugapa for further care.

1,360 Students in First Cohort of National Integrated Schools Ready for Orientation

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has confirmed that 1,360 students across 17 locations are prepared to begin the Friendly School Orientation Period (MPLS) as the inaugural cohort of the National Integrated Schools (SNT). The students, evenly split between lower and upper secondary levels, were selected from over 2,000 applicants. The programme also involves 204 newly recruited teachers who underwent specialised training before being deployed.

Prabowo Proposes Destry Damayanti as Sole Candidate for BI Governor

President Prabowo Subianto has submitted a letter to the House of Representatives (DPR) proposing Destry Damayanti as the single candidate for Governor of Bank Indonesia. Damayanti is currently serving as the Acting Governor of the central bank following the resignation of Perry Warjiyo. The presidential letter also includes a nomination for the position of Senior Deputy Governor.

Two Men Arrested in Denpasar for Stealing Woman's Vespa by Posing as Debt Collectors

Bali Police have arrested two men who allegedly stole a Vespa scooter from a 19-year-old woman in South Denpasar by impersonating debt collectors. The suspects claimed the vehicle had outstanding payments and forcibly took the keys and registration before fleeing. Police recovered six other motorcycles and mobile phones from the perpetrators and have urged the public to verify the credentials of anyone claiming to be a debt collector.

Pertumbuhan Ekonomi Kuartal II Melambat, Investor Dinilai Masih Selektif

Indonesia's economic growth slowed to 5.29% year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026, down from 5.61% in the previous quarter, prompting caution among investors. Analysts at Mirae Asset Sekuritas noted that while the headline figure exceeded expectations, the quality of growth is being questioned as it was partly driven by temporary government spending rather than sustainable domestic demand. The firm warned that growth could dip below 5% in the third quarter without a stronger pickup in investment and manufacturing activity.

TNI Evacuates Resident from OPM-Prone Area in Papua

Indonesian military personnel from Koops TNI Habema evacuated a civilian from a region in Central Papua known for Organisasi Papua Merdeka (OPM) activity. The resident was found during a patrol in Ugimba District and was believed to have been left behind by a group fleeing the separatist group. The individual was airlifted to Sugapa District for security and further assistance.

Sumatran Elephant Death in Aceh Plantation Sparks Government Call for Ecosystem Restoration

The death of a Sumatran elephant in an oil palm plantation in Aceh has been described by Indonesia's Forestry Minister as a stark reminder of the need to improve conservation management. The incident, which coincided with National Conservation Day, prompted Minister Raja Juli Antoni to call for serious ecosystem restoration efforts. The government highlighted a new Presidential Instruction aimed at saving Sumatran and Kalimantan elephant populations as part of its commitment to restoring degraded lands.

Mojtaba Khamenei Makes First Public Appearance, Discusses Economy and War with President Pezeshkian

Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has made his first public appearance since the outbreak of conflict with the United States, holding talks with President Masoud Pezeshkian. The meeting focused on the country's economic stability, the status of the national currency, and the ongoing military situation. The discussions also covered the evaluation of the 'Third War' imposed on Iran and the state of national defence.

Chicken Meat Prices Remain Uncontrolled, Reaching Rp100,000; BPS and KSP Issue Warning

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) has reported that over half of the monitored regions are experiencing rising chicken meat prices, with some areas seeing costs surge to Rp100,000 per kilogram. The spike is attributed to a combination of supply disruptions, such as bad weather limiting fishing activities, and increased demand from the resumption of the government's free nutritious meal programme. The Presidential Staff Office has placed chicken meat on a watch list, urging regional governments to adopt targeted stabilisation measures rather than relying solely on national average prices.

Greenland Issues Stern Warning to Oil Company Linked to Donald Trump

Greenland's government has issued a stern warning to a Texas-based oil company with ties to Donald Trump after it brought drilling equipment ashore without official permits. The company, Greenland Energy, is seeking to explore the Jameson Land region, which is estimated to hold crude oil reserves worth up to US$1 trillion. The incident has heightened tensions amid renewed US interest in the Arctic territory, though the company denies any connection to Trump's political ambitions regarding Greenland.

Minister: Waste Picker Workers Get 50% Discount on JKK-JKM Contributions to Rp 8,400/Month

Indonesian Manpower Minister Yassierli announced a 50 percent discount on workplace accident and death insurance contributions for informal sector workers, including waste pickers, reducing their monthly payment to Rp 8,400. The initiative aims to extend social security coverage to all Indonesian workers, with the discount currently valid until the end of 2026. Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung also revealed that the city has been providing similar BPJS Ketenagakerjaan protection for 4,000 waste pickers at Bantargebang since 2017.

Attorney General's Office Summons 16 Witnesses in MBG Corruption Investigation

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has summoned 16 witnesses as part of its investigation into alleged corruption within the free nutritious meal programme (MBG) at the National Nutrition Agency (BGN). The witnesses include an expert, a partner, a finance officer, and several company directors. The investigation aims to strengthen evidence against seven suspects already named, including former BGN head Dadan Hindayana.

TNI Commander Urges Public Not to Be Easily Provoked by Unverified Information

Indonesian Military (TNI) Commander General Agus Subiyanto has called on the public to remain calm and not be easily provoked by unverified information circulating on social media. The appeal was made following a strategic issues coordination meeting with the House of Representatives (DPR) and the National Police. He also confirmed that the TNI will deploy personnel to assist the police in securing the upcoming Independence Day celebrations.

How to Distinguish Formalin-Tainted Fish Amid Rogue Trader Concerns

Laboratory findings of formaldehyde in black pomfret have raised public concern, though experts note some marine fish naturally produce the compound after death. Consumers are advised to learn physical signs of deliberate formalin adulteration, such as unnatural stiffness and chemical odours, while understanding that only lab tests can confirm the source.

West Java Governor KDM Inaugurates LPM RI Board, Pushes for Accelerated Village Development

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi inaugurated the national board of the Community Empowerment Institution (LPM RI) and urged the new leadership to collaborate on accelerating village-level development. He highlighted critical social issues including human trafficking, online gambling, and drug abuse that threaten rural communities. The newly appointed chairman, Ahmad Doli Kurnia Tandjung, pledged to adopt a bottom-up development strategy prioritising community participation.

US Unfazed by Netanyahu's Rejection of Gaza Peace Plan

The White House has dismissed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's public rejection of a Gaza peace plan as domestic political posturing. Officials indicated they are not concerned as long as Israel continues to limit military strikes in Gaza. Despite the public denial, reports suggest Israel remains in coordination with the Peace Council and has committed to allowing the plan's implementation.

Bandung Mayor Clarifies Why Padel Venue Was Not Sealed After Tree Felling Outburst

Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan has explained his decision not to seal a padel sports venue despite his earlier public outburst over the felling of 10 trees on Jalan LL.RE Martadinata. The mayor stated that the padel business and the videotron owner who admitted to cutting down the trees for visibility are legally separate entities. Authorities are currently focusing on replanting five-metre-tall saplings after the necessary pavement demolition is completed.

Deputy Finance Minister reassures investors on clarity of Gold ETF underlying assets

Deputy Finance Minister Juda Agung has sought to reassure investors that the newly launched Gold Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) is backed by physical gold. The launch, which coincides with the anniversary of the Indonesian capital market, is seen as a concrete step to deepen the domestic financial market and expand investment options. Regulators emphasised that the product's development must be accompanied by strong governance, transparency, and investor protection.

Chronology of the Seizure of a Vessel Smuggling 1.3 Tonnes of Narcotics in the Riau Islands Waters

Indonesian authorities have intercepted a massive drug shipment, seizing approximately 1.3 tonnes of ketamine from a Tanzania-flagged vessel in the waters off Bintan, Riau Islands. The operation, involving the Navy, Customs, and the National Narcotics Agency, was based on three months of intelligence analysis and cross-border information sharing. Eight crew members, including seven Myanmar nationals and one Taiwanese national, were arrested and face severe penalties under Indonesia's narcotics law.

Ministries hold free cataract, health checks to mark Independence Day

Indonesian ministries are providing free cataract surgeries and health screenings for inmates, correctional officers, and the public to commemorate Independence Day. The initiative, involving Cipinang Correctional General Hospital and the Indonesian Ophthalmologists Association, treated 81 members of the public and 81 inmates, with routine health checks held monthly. The hospital, which opened to the public in 2022, also serves as a referral centre for tuberculosis, HIV, and dental care.

Indonesia Eyes Larger Panda Bonds to Diversify Away from US Dollar

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has urged the government to issue more Panda Bonds as a means of diversifying investment sources away from the US dollar. He highlighted the strong investor confidence reflected in the AAA rating from Chinese agencies and the significant trade volume between the two nations. The government recently raised 7 billion yuan from a Panda Bond issuance, which will be used to help cover the 2026 state budget deficit.

KELANA Programme Arrives in Yogyakarta, Gen Z Learns Energy Transition First-Hand

The Ministry of Environment's KELANA programme brought 13 high school students to Yogyakarta for experiential learning on energy transition and waste management. The students visited Pertamina's Fuel Terminal Rewulu and a local prison to observe circular economy practices, including plastic waste recycling into furniture and maggot cultivation. The initiative aims to educate young people on environmental collaboration between industry, government, and communities while promoting green jobs.

Gold ETFs: Suitable for Investors or Savers? Here Are the Benefits and Risks

Gold Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) have been launched on the Indonesia Stock Exchange, but analysts caution they are better suited for experienced stock investors rather than routine savers. Unlike gold savings accounts, ETF units cannot be pawned for loans or converted into physical bullion. The instrument offers real-time trading and is integrated into existing securities accounts, providing a new avenue for exposure to gold price movements.

Subsidised Gas Mixing Warehouse Raided in Bogor, Three Suspects Flee Over Wall

Police in Bogor Regency raided a warehouse suspected of being used for mixing subsidised LPG, seizing 152 gas cylinders and hundreds of seals. Three suspects managed to escape by climbing over a wall during the operation. Authorities are continuing their investigation and pursuing the fugitives.

Jamkrida Bali Mandara Posts Strong Performance, Revenue Reaches IDR 56.5 Billion Through July 2026

PT Jamkrida Bali Mandara, a regional guarantee company, reported a 33% increase in total revenue to IDR 56.53 billion through July 2026. The firm also saw its net profit surge by 90% and maintained a healthy claims ratio of 29.1%, indicating robust portfolio management. Bali's Regional Secretary Dewa Made Indra urged stakeholders to strengthen the company's capital to further expand credit access for MSMEs and drive regional economic growth.

Revealed! The Root Cause of Bus Brake Failures Leading to Fatal Accidents

A series of recent fatal bus accidents in Indonesia has highlighted critical safety concerns in the commercial vehicle industry. Experts point to the body-building process on bus chassis as a major risk factor, where a single welding spark hitting an air hose can compromise the entire braking system. The industry is now pushing for standardised body-building procedures and the digitalisation of pre-delivery inspections to ensure vehicle safety.

Finance Ministry Reveals Benefits of State Sukuk for National Development

The Ministry of Finance has highlighted that state sukuk serve as a crucial instrument aligning investor interests with national development goals. Beyond financial returns, funds raised through sukuk issuances have tangibly contributed to infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, hospitals, and green initiatives. The government also emphasised the strategic role of universities in boosting Islamic financial literacy and research to support the instrument's sustainability.

Bauxite Downstreaming Claimed to Pave the Way for Strategic Mineral Development

Indonesia's bauxite downstreaming efforts are being positioned as a gateway to developing strategic minerals, particularly Rare Earth Elements (REE). MIND ID, in collaboration with government bodies, is drafting a national roadmap for REE processing and purification, aiming to extract economic value from mineral by-products. The initiative seeks to bolster national industrial independence and create new sources of economic growth.