Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 10 August 2026

Showing 1,051-1,100 of 1,377 articles

Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim Hospitalised for Medical Check-up

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has been admitted to hospital for a scheduled medical examination and will remain under observation for two days. The Prime Minister's Office has not disclosed the specific health issue, though Anwar has a history of recurring shoulder and back pain. The hospitalisation comes shortly after Anwar met with the King of Malaysia, who subsequently ordered tighter border controls following a drug-related arrest in Indonesia.

Airlangga Confident Indonesia's Gold ETF Market Can Overtake India and Singapore

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto expressed confidence that Indonesia's newly launched Gold Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) can quickly surpass the markets of India and Singapore. The product, launched alongside the 49th anniversary of the reactivation of the Indonesian Capital Market, is designed to track gold price movements. Officials stated the Gold ETF integrates the capital market with the national bullion ecosystem to deepen the country's financial markets.

Indonesia Set to Have Largest Battery Factory, Here's Its Profile

Indonesia is poised to inaugurate a major electric vehicle battery factory in Karawang, West Java, operated by PT CATIB, a joint venture involving China's CATL. The plant, with an initial capacity of 6.9 GWh, is part of a broader US$5.9 billion integrated battery ecosystem project. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stated the factory is complete and awaiting President Prabowo Subianto's schedule for its official opening.

Bambang Patijaya Backs Bahlil: Regions Must Not Be Mere Spectators in Downstreaming

House Commission XII Chairman Bambang Patijaya has endorsed Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia's call for downstreaming policies to ensure Indonesia becomes the master of its own natural resources. Patijaya stressed that regional communities hosting industrial activities must receive proportional benefits, including local employment and infrastructure development. He also urged that the acceleration of downstreaming be accompanied by transparent governance and strict adherence to the constitutional mandate for public prosperity.

Shadow of PT Dua Kuda Indonesia Bankruptcy Raises Questions Among Foreign Investors

The bankruptcy ruling against PT Dua Kuda Indonesia, a subsidiary of a Chinese public company, has sparked concerns among foreign investors about legal certainty in Indonesia. Despite the company's claims of being solvent and operationally normal, the court's decision has sent ripples through the parent company's stock and raised broader questions about the protection of investment. The case highlights the potential misuse of bankruptcy instruments against going concerns and its impact on Indonesia's investment climate.

Fire near Indonesia's Mount Bromo extinguished but new hotspots emerge

A large fire that scorched 550 hectares in East Java's Mount Bromo National Park has been put out, but authorities are now battling new hotspots covering 20 hectares near the caldera. More than 120 personnel and aerial water-bombing assets have been deployed, with officials suspecting the blaze was sparked by a visitor's carelessly discarded fire. The popular tourist destination has been closed since Saturday, though no casualties have been reported.

Latest Update on MBG Corruption Probe: AGO Summons 16 Witnesses

The Attorney General's Office has summoned 16 witnesses as it intensifies its investigation into alleged corruption within the free nutritious meal programme at the National Nutrition Agency. The probe, covering the 2025-2026 period, has already resulted in seven suspects being named, including the former head of the agency. The investigation is focused on governance failures within the flagship social welfare initiative.

KPK Urges Public to Monitor Trial of Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has invited the public to monitor the trial of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, which begins on 11 August 2026. Yaqut and three other defendants face charges related to alleged corruption in the management of the 2023-2024 Hajj quota, a case that reportedly caused state losses of up to IDR 622 billion. The trial at the Central Jakarta District Court is open to the public, and the KPK hopes the proceedings will spur improvements in the organisation of the Hajj pilgrimage.

Ahead of Ex-Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut's Hajj Trial, KPK Summons Travel Bureau Officials

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned nine witnesses from travel bureaus as it prepares for the first hearing of a hajj quota corruption case involving former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas. The trial, scheduled for 11 August at the Central Jakarta Corruption Court, will also include three other suspects accused of bribery related to the allocation of special hajj quotas. The KPK alleges that the illicit payments caused state losses and delayed the departure of thousands of regular pilgrims.

Nigeria Imposes Stamp Duty and Withholding Tax on Cryptocurrency Transactions

Nigeria has officially introduced a stamp duty and a withholding tax on cryptocurrency and digital asset transactions as part of a broader fiscal reform to boost state revenue. Industry figures warn the new levies could stifle adoption in one of the world's most active retail crypto markets by driving activity away from regulated platforms. The regulations notably allow tax payments to be made in digital assets, not just the local naira currency.

Gorontalo Law Ministry Strengthens Citizenship Services for Legal Certainty

The Gorontalo Regional Office of the Ministry of Law held a socialisation event to strengthen citizenship services, aiming to provide legal certainty and protect the rights of the public. The initiative emphasised the importance of citizenship status beyond administrative identity, highlighting its impact on access to education, employment, and public services. The programme involved cross-agency coordination with immigration, academic, and local government bodies to ensure comprehensive and clear service delivery.

Sidoarjo Police Traffic Unit Wins Top Assessment for Traffic Management Engineering

The Sidoarjo Police Traffic Unit has received the best assessment award in the Traffic Management Engineering category for its work during the 2026 Ketupat Semeru Operation. The award recognises the unit's successful traffic engineering, particularly around the bus terminal, during the Eid homecoming period. Officials stated the achievement was the result of strong collaboration between the police, local government, transportation agencies, and other stakeholders.

Bromo Fully Closed Due to Fire: Here's How to Refund and Reschedule Tickets

Tourism at Mount Bromo has been temporarily suspended following ongoing forest and land fires. The Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park Office has announced procedures for visitors to either reschedule their trips until 31 December 2026 or obtain a full refund. Affected visitors who purchased tickets for 9-11 August 2026 have until 31 August 2026 to submit their choice.

Airlangga Sets Ambitious Target, Challenges Indonesia's Gold ETF to Surpass India and Singapore

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has expressed strong optimism that Indonesia's newly launched gold exchange-traded fund (ETF) can rapidly outpace similar instruments in India and Singapore. He highlighted the country's substantial domestic gold reserves, including 153 tonnes managed by state-owned pawnbroker Pegadaian, as a key driver for this growth. The minister believes the ETF will not only broaden investment options but also strengthen the broader financial ecosystem.

DIY Chicken Farmers Protest Falling Egg and Cull Prices by Giving Away Birds in Malioboro

Chicken farmers in Yogyakarta staged a protest by distributing free cull hens in the Malioboro area, highlighting the severe financial strain caused by plummeting egg and cull chicken prices. The farmers reported that egg prices have fallen to Rp 22,000 per kilogram while feed costs remain high, leading to daily losses. They are urging the government to intervene by helping to absorb the oversupply of cull chickens and stabilise feed prices.

National Nutrition Agency Mandates Expiry Labels on Free Nutritious Meal Containers

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is tightening food safety protocols for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme by requiring expiry time labels on all meal containers starting this week. The agency also strictly prohibits students from taking meals home, citing risks of spoilage and past food poisoning cases linked to delayed consumption. Enhanced monitoring from production kitchens to schools, including organoleptic checks by designated officers, is being implemented to ensure the preservative-free meals are consumed within a four-hour safety window.

Bareskrim Raids Nightclub in Batam, Ecstasy Found Stored in Safe

The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) raided a nightclub in Batam, Riau Islands, suspected of being a hub for drug distribution. Officers discovered ecstasy pills stored inside a safe on the premises. A total of 32 individuals have been detained for intensive questioning, with some named as suspects.

Bridge Embankment in Kusamba Remains Unrepaired Two Weeks After Flood

An embankment on a bridge in Kusamba, Klungkung, Bali, remains unrepaired two weeks after being damaged by floods, causing concern among local residents. The village head has confirmed the structure is deteriorating and poses a risk to vehicles and nearby settlements. The Klungkung Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has stated that repairs will be expedited using the Public Works Department's maintenance budget, following a directive from the Deputy Regent.

East Java Tourism Ambassador Runner-Up Faces Sanctions Over Abortion Allegations

A runner-up in the 2026 East Java tourism ambassador competition is facing potential disqualification after allegations surfaced that he asked his girlfriend to have an abortion in Singapore. The East Java Raka Raki Association has condemned the alleged sexual violence and formed an independent team to investigate. The provincial tourism office has summoned the individual and warned that his title could be revoked pending the outcome of a hearing.

DPR Deputy Speaker Applauds BNN for Foiling Smuggling of 1.3 Tonnes of Ketamine

The Indonesian House of Representatives' Deputy Speaker for Legal Affairs, Rano Alfath, has praised the National Narcotics Board (BNN) and a joint task force for intercepting nearly 1.3 tonnes of ketamine in the waters off the Riau Islands. Alfath highlighted that the operation potentially saved 6.49 million lives and stressed the need to strengthen regulations by reclassifying ketamine as a narcotic. He urged law enforcement to pursue the masterminds and financiers behind the transnational drug network, not just the eight foreign crew members arrested.

Indonesia Capital Market Turns 49: A Look at Its History and the Oldest Listed Companies

The Indonesian capital market celebrates its 49th anniversary on 10 August 2026, marking the reactivation of trading in 1977 after a long hiatus. The article traces the bourse's origins back to 1912 in Batavia and highlights key milestones, including the privatisation of the Jakarta Stock Exchange in 1992. It also lists the ten longest-listed companies, led by PT Solusi Bangun Indonesia Tbk (SMCB), which was the first to list upon the market's reactivation.

Forestry Ministry's Rapid Response Controls Mount Rinjani Fire

The Ministry of Forestry's quick reaction teams successfully contained a fire that broke out in the Mount Rinjani National Park, preventing it from spreading further across the savanna and shrubland. Minister Raja Juli Antoni stressed the importance of early detection and rapid response, while officials highlighted the critical collaboration between the Manggala Agni fire brigade, the military, police, and local communities. The affected area, covering approximately 30 hectares, is a vital conservation zone in West Nusa Tenggara with significant ecological and cultural value.

Gold ETF Gains Sharia Compliance, Offers New Investment Alternative

Indonesia's newly launched gold Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) has received sharia compliance certification from the National Sharia Board of the Indonesian Ulema Council, broadening its appeal to Muslim investors. The Financial Services Authority (OJK) highlighted the instrument's role in deepening the capital market and expanding the bullion market. Officials emphasised that maintaining investor trust through transparent governance and secure storage is critical for the product's success.

Strategic Intervention: KSP Says Integrated National Schools Bring Quality Education to Remote Indonesia

The Presidential Staff Office (KSP) has described the Integrated National School (SNT) programme as a strategic state intervention to deliver equitable, high-quality education across Indonesia, including previously hard-to-reach areas. KSP Chief Dudung Abdurachman stated the commencement of the first SNT cohort marks a milestone in the nation's educational history, pioneering integrated learning from Sumatra to Papua. He emphasised that the programme's success hinges on synergy between central and regional governments and a commitment to ensuring every child's right to quality education.

DPR Deputy Speaker Suspects Mastermind Behind Hoax Protest Videos

Andreas Hugo Pareira, Deputy Chairman of the House of Representatives' Commission XIII, has alleged that a mastermind is behind the circulation of hoax videos depicting old demonstrations as recent events. He warned that the spread of such content on social media is a deliberate pattern to manipulate public opinion, similar to incidents in August last year. The lawmaker urged the government to take firm action to investigate the perpetrators and called on the public to verify information to prevent national division.

PNM Boosts Coastal Women's Businesses in Gresik Through Downstreaming

State-owned enterprise PNM is empowering women's ultra-micro businesses in the coastal area of Gresik, East Java, by combining financing with comprehensive assistance to increase the value of marine products. The programme focuses on moving beyond subsistence by improving production, securing halal certification, and strengthening branding and packaging. Officials highlight that success is measured not just by loan disbursement but by increased productivity, income, and job creation within the community.

Probolinggo Government Educates Residents and Implements Early Warning System to Prevent Bromo Forest Fires

The Probolinggo Regency Government is intensifying public education and proposing an early warning system to prevent future forest and land fires in the Mount Bromo area. Bupati Mohammad Haris stressed that continuous education for local communities, including the Tenggerese, is crucial alongside tourist awareness. The initiative follows a recent fire that prompted a total closure of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park to facilitate firefighting operations involving water-bombing helicopters and ground crews.

The World's First Public Company's Dividend Payout That Crashed the Spice Market

The Dutch East India Company (VOC), often cited as the world's first publicly traded company, faced an unexpected crisis after distributing its inaugural dividends in the form of spices. When investors flooded the Amsterdam market to sell their pepper and nutmeg, the sudden oversupply caused prices to plummet. The company was subsequently forced to restructure its dividend policy, shifting from commodity-based payments to cash.

Police to Question YouTuber Bigmo Over Alleged Vape Promotion Involving a Minor

Jakarta police have scheduled an examination of YouTuber Bigmo in connection with an alleged case of electronic cigarette promotion involving a child. The investigation, led by the Women and Children Protection Directorate, follows a report and the collection of digital evidence. Authorities are working to determine if any criminal elements exist in the content that potentially violates child protection laws.

US Senator Says Trump Has Lost the War Against Iran

US Senator Chris Murphy has openly criticised President Donald Trump, declaring that the United States has lost the war against Iran. The Democratic Senator argued that the ongoing conflict has weakened America while strengthening Iran, and that Trump may be forced to accept an unfavourable deal to end the hostilities. Murphy's comments follow reports suggesting the White House is considering a ceasefire that does not fully address Iran's nuclear ambitions.

Pertamina fuels Emirates A380 with 92,901 liters in Jakarta

Pertamina Patra Niaga has successfully refuelled an Emirates Airbus A380 at Soekarno-Hatta Airport, demonstrating its capability to service the world's largest passenger aircraft. The operation involved supplying 92,901 litres of Jet A-1 fuel using high-capacity hydrant dispensers, underscoring the state-owned firm's readiness in terms of facilities, equipment, and safety protocols. This milestone highlights Indonesia's growing aviation infrastructure capacity and Pertamina's commitment to operational excellence at a key international gateway.

Connecting the World with New Opportunities โ€“ Guangzhou Nansha Builds a New Ecosystem for Cross-Border Trade

Guangzhou's Nansha District is rapidly emerging as a pivotal gateway for global trade, leveraging its world-class automated port and integrated multimodal transport network. The district is fostering a comprehensive cross-border service ecosystem, attracting major international brands and e-commerce platforms. With foreign trade reaching nearly 296 billion yuan in 2025, Nansha's bonded area has ranked first nationally in cross-border e-commerce import and export value for six consecutive years.

Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim Hospitalised for Medical Check-Up

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has been admitted to hospital for a two-day medical observation and procedure, his office confirmed. The announcement comes amid rising political tensions, with the Democratic Action Party (DAP) set to hold a vote on its leaders' cabinet positions following a decline in public support. Anwar, who turned 79, has been in office since November 2022 and has overseen relatively strong economic growth.

Video: How JWCC Hospital Targets Patients Who Usually Seek Treatment Abroad

The Joy Women & Children's Community (JWCC) Hospital in Indonesia is transforming into a comprehensive facility to attract patients who typically seek medical care overseas. Founder Finna Huang explains the hospital's 20-year evolution, now equipped with advanced technology and professional staff to provide specialised services. The initiative aims to offer international-standard healthcare domestically, reducing the need for Indonesians to travel abroad for treatment.

Bromo Fire Spreads to 550 Hectares, Flames Approach Residential Areas

A forest and land fire on Mount Bromo in East Java has expanded to approximately 550 hectares, with flames reportedly nearing residential areas. The blaze, which began on 3 August 2026, has prompted the temporary closure of all tourist access to the national park. Authorities are deploying helicopters for water bombing and coordinating ground teams to protect communities and contain the fire.

Shroud Bearing 60,000 Names of Gaza Victims Colours Locarno Film Festival

A peaceful demonstration at the Locarno Film Festival in Switzerland displayed a shroud listing the names of 60,000 Gazans killed since the war began. Organised by Swiss Healthcare Workers Against Genocide, the pre-agreed protest aimed to raise awareness, particularly among the German-speaking Swiss population. The demonstrators called on the Swiss government to pressure Israel to open Gaza's borders to aid organisations and the media.

Indonesia Requires Rp 8,705 Trillion in Investment Next Year, Capital Market to Play Crucial Role

Indonesia's investment requirement for 2027 is projected at Rp 8,705 trillion, far exceeding the state budget's capacity of Rp 459 trillion. The government expects the private sector, particularly the capital market, to provide the vast majority of the remaining funds. Officials emphasised the strategic role of the capital market as an efficient and transparent source of private financing to bridge corporate needs with public funds.

OJK and SRO Officially Launch Gold ETF Investment Instrument

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) and Self-Regulatory Organisation (SRO) have officially launched a Gold Exchange Traded Fund (ETF), marking a significant expansion of the nation's bullion market. The new instrument, which has received sharia compliance certification, allows investors to gain exposure to gold without the need for physical storage. The launch is part of an integrated market deepening strategy and coincides with the anniversary of the Indonesian capital market.

Bromo Forest Fires Spread, House Commission IV Calls for Improved Handling SOP

A senior Indonesian lawmaker has urged the government to overhaul standard operating procedures for tackling forest and land fires, as blazes in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park have now scorched 720 hectares. Thick smoke has hampered aerial water bombing efforts, whilst weather modification techniques remain unfeasible due to objective conditions not being met. The Forestry Ministry is also being encouraged to grant the park authority greater financial autonomy and to clarify the command structure between the ministry and the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) during cross-jurisdictional emergencies.

Latest Financial Condition of Indonesians: Savings Down, Instalments Up

Bank Indonesia's latest Consumer Survey reveals a shift in household finances, with the proportion of income allocated to savings and consumption declining while debt repayments rise. The trend of increasing instalment burdens is evident across most spending groups, particularly among the middle and upper classes. Only the highest spending bracket managed to increase their savings ratio, highlighting growing financial pressure on lower-income groups.

Six Bali's coastal areas face risk from high tides: BMKG

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned that six coastal areas in Bali are at risk of tidal flooding due to the moon's perigee phase and the new moon. The high tides could disrupt port cargo operations, coastal settlements, salt farms, and fishing activities. Residents are urged to monitor official BMKG channels for the latest weather updates.

Minister Arifah: Give children space to learn and be creative

Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Arifah Fauzi has called for a strong commitment to providing children with space to learn, create, and develop their potential. Speaking at a National Children's Day event organised by Soka Gakkai Indonesia, she praised the organisation's efforts in fostering confident and empowered young generations. The event highlighted the importance of collaboration between the government, families, and communities to ensure children grow optimally in a safe environment.

Pertamina Boosts Pangkah Gas Output to Meet Industrial Demand

Pertamina is intensifying efforts to maximise gas production at the Pangkah Working Area in Gresik, East Java, to support the region's strong industrial base. The state-owned energy firm aims to optimise existing infrastructure while pursuing new exploration to discover additional reserves. A recent development well has already exceeded initial targets, signalling further potential to strengthen national energy security.

BPS urges vigilance over broiler chicken price hikes in 188 regions

The Central Statistics Agency (BPS) has called on regional governments to monitor rising broiler chicken prices across 188 regencies and cities, despite the national average remaining slightly below the consumer reference price. Localised spikes have been driven by supply constraints and surging demand, with some areas already exceeding the price ceiling. The agency warns that without intervention, the national price could breach the official threshold.

LPSK to Meet Sutrimo's Family, Discuss Protection Needs

The Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) will visit the family of the late Sutrimo in Banyumas, Central Java, to assess their need for protection. The move follows a police report filed by the family seeking clarity on the cause of death of Sutrimo, who was reportedly the household head for a former senior prosecutor. The family has also denied allegations that they were paid to remain silent about the case.

Iran Will Not Relinquish Control of Strait of Hormuz Under Any Circumstances

A senior Iranian cleric has declared that the Islamic Republic will never surrender its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz. Ayatollah Sadegh Amoli Larijani stated that the only path to normalising transit is for the United States and its allies to accept Iran's mandate over the strategic waterway. The remarks follow a breakdown in a June memorandum of understanding after the US allegedly violated its terms.

Capital Market Investors Reach 30.27 Million, OJK Stresses Integrity

The number of capital market investors in Indonesia has surged to 30.27 million as of August 2026, reflecting growing public trust. The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has emphasised that this growth must be accompanied by strengthened integrity, transparency, and enforcement to maintain both domestic and global investor confidence.

HNW Appreciates Issuance of Religious Affairs Ministerial Regulation on Pesantren Directorate General

Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly Hidayat Nur Wahid has welcomed the issuance of Minister of Religious Affairs Regulation No. 16 of 2026, which finalises the establishment of the Directorate General of Pesantren. The regulation marks the culmination of a long legislative process following the 2019 Pesantren Law and aims to provide dedicated institutional support for Indonesia's 42,000 pesantren and 11 million students. HNW urged the new directorate to fairly accommodate all three types of pesantren recognised by law and to prioritise securing a separate endowment fund for the institutions.

Police Schedule Examination of YouTuber Bigmo for Monday Afternoon

Jakarta police have scheduled an examination for YouTuber Bigmo on Monday afternoon regarding a case involving the promotion of electronic cigarettes to children. The police have confirmed Bigmo's attendance through his lawyer and have already questioned the complainant, parents, and four children who appeared in the promotional video. Authorities are also investigating the company PT TLI to determine the working relationship with the reported party.

PLN Electricity Tariffs Unchanged Through September 2026

The Indonesian government has decided to keep electricity tariffs for all PLN customer groups unchanged for the third quarter of 2026, from July to September. Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stated the decision aims to protect public purchasing power and maintain national economic stability amid global uncertainty. The freeze applies to both 13 non-subsidised and 24 subsidised customer categories.