Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 10 August 2026

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Asian Currencies Mixed: Rupiah Leads Gains as Yen and Won Weaken

The Indonesian rupiah led gains among Asian currencies on Monday, strengthening 0.36% against a broadly weaker US dollar. The greenback remained under pressure near a two-month low as markets slashed expectations for a September rate hike following weak US jobs data, with investors now turning their attention to upcoming US inflation figures.

Pope Leo calls for diplomatic space in Ukraine conflict

Pope Leo XIV has urged for diplomacy to be given room in the Ukraine conflict, emphasising the need to respect international law. He stated that war only breeds more war and immense suffering, calling for an end to the cycle of violence. The Pope also expressed solidarity with the families of victims, following recent drone attacks on civilian buses in Donetsk and Zaporozhye.

Japan Opens Employment Opportunities for 100,000 Indonesians Annually

Japan has offered Indonesia the opportunity to send up to 100,000 workers annually to address its labour shortages. The Indonesian Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology is forming a task force to coordinate with university career centres to prepare graduates. This initiative complements existing government programmes from the Ministry of Manpower and the Ministry of Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers.

House Commission III Urges Transparent Probe into Death of Police Officer's Ex-Wife, Warns Against Rushing to Suicide Conclusion

The Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission III has called for a thorough and transparent investigation into the death of Winda Lorenza, the ex-wife of a police officer, who was found with a gunshot wound to the head. The commission stressed that authorities must not hastily conclude the case as a suicide, following concerns and reports of foul play from the victim's family.

Global Gold Price Steady at US$4,339, Antam Gold Holds at Rp2.69 Million per Gram

Global gold prices remained stable in early Asian trading on Monday after hitting a seven-week high last week, driven by unexpectedly weak US employment data. The spot price held at US$4,339 per troy ounce, while domestic gold from PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) was unchanged at Rp2.69 million per gram. Market expectations for a Federal Reserve rate hike in September have fallen below 50 percent, enhancing the appeal of the non-yielding asset.

IHSG Strengthens on Optimism Over Dovish Global Central Bank Stance

The Indonesian Composite Index (IHSG) opened higher on Monday, buoyed by global market optimism that major central banks, particularly the US Federal Reserve, will adopt a more dovish monetary policy. This positive sentiment was driven by weaker-than-expected US labour data, which reduced the likelihood of near-term interest rate hikes. Domestically, investors are also awaiting the release of key economic indicators, including consumer confidence and retail sales data.

Ministry of Immigration and Corrections and Ministry of Health Provide Free Cataract and Health Screenings for Independence Day

The Ministry of Immigration and Corrections, together with the Ministry of Health, held free cataract and general health screenings at the Cipinang Corrections General Hospital in Jakarta. The event, commemorating the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence, served 81 inmates and 81 members of the public. The initiative is part of a regular monthly programme, though this marks the first time cataract surgery has been included.

Israel Shells Southern Lebanese Villages Amid Ceasefire Talks

Israeli forces have shelled several villages in southern Lebanon with heavy artillery and launched air strikes, causing extensive fires. The attacks occurred despite ongoing international talks in Rome aimed at implementing a ceasefire agreement and restoring Lebanese army control over the region.

Prabowo Summons Pertamina CEO to Discuss B50 and Streamlining Subsidiaries

President Prabowo Subianto met with Pertamina's CEO to review the progress of the mandatory B50 biodiesel programme, a key initiative for national energy independence. The President also issued a directive to reduce the complex layers of subsidiaries within state-owned enterprises like Pertamina and PLN. The restructuring aims to create more agile and efficient companies by accelerating decision-making and improving productivity.

Bank Mandiri Partners with Paramount to Accelerate Growth in the Property Sector

State-owned Bank Mandiri has expanded its strategic collaboration with property developer Paramount Enterprise International to provide integrated banking solutions for sustainable township development. The partnership, formalised through two Memoranda of Understanding, will deliver comprehensive financial services including digitalised mortgage facilities and operational transaction management. The synergy aims to leverage the property sector's significant multiplier effect on over 180 sub-sectors to drive national economic growth.

Before the Sacred Red and White Flag Flies

This article highlights the rigorous journey and personal sacrifices of 76 Indonesian high school students selected as the national-level flag-raising squad (Paskibraka) for the 81st Independence Day ceremony. It details their intensive training regimen in Depok, West Java, and the multi-tiered selection process from school to national level, exemplified by the story of Johanes Matius Paulus Rumsayor from Papua.

Second Quarter Economic Growth: The Neglected External Sector

An economist argues that Indonesia's moderate economic growth of around five per cent stems from an over-reliance on domestic policy and an inward-looking approach. To achieve higher growth rates comparable to Vietnam's 8.3 per cent, a fundamental shift towards an outward-looking, export-oriented strategy is deemed essential. The piece contends that without this transformation, ambitious growth targets will remain unattainable.

BNSP conducts first test witnessing for LSPs to strengthen 80 HR competencies

Indonesia's National Professional Certification Agency (BNSP) has overseen the inaugural assessment process for six professional certification bodies (LSPs) aimed at bolstering the competence of 80 human resources in the tourism sector. The initiative marks the implementation of a national certification scheme and the use of electronic competency certificates. The BNSP is also collaborating with the Ministry of Tourism to develop 483 national certification schemes across 34 tourism fields, while remaining open to new schemes to meet evolving labour market demands.

Malaysia Named World's Best Country for Digital Nomads in 2026

Malaysia has been ranked the top global destination for digital nomads in the 2026 Rumavi Global Relocation Index, surpassing traditional favourites like Portugal and Thailand. The country scored highly for its digital infrastructure, affordable cost of living, and the DE Rantau visa scheme, which allows remote workers to stay legally for up to a year. The report highlights Southeast Asia's growing competition to attract location-independent professionals through favourable tax policies and long-term visa programmes.

From Land Ownership to Algorithmic Supremacy

This opinion piece argues that the true drivers of history are not political leaders but the underlying forces of productivity, trust, and financing. It posits a 'law of shifting power centres', suggesting that as the primary source of prosperity evolves from land to industry, finance, and now data, the locus of power inevitably follows.

Illegal Parking Attendant in Tambora Arrested for Allegedly Extorting Motorcyclist

An illegal parking attendant in Tambora, West Jakarta, was arrested after allegedly demanding Rp5,000 from a motorcyclist, a rate intended for cars, and threatening the victim. The suspect, identified as MS, was using expired parking tickets and tested positive for amphetamines following his arrest. Police are investigating the case under Article 482 of the Criminal Code.

Sultan of Brunei Hassanal Bolkiah Strips Daughter-in-Law of Royal Title

Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei has officially revoked the royal title of his daughter-in-law, Pengiran Raabiatul Adawiyyah, effective immediately. The Istana cited behaviour deemed detrimental to the royal family's image and disrespectful to the Sultan as the reason for the decree. Raabiatul Adawiyyah is the wife of Prince Abdul Malik, a son of the Sultan and Queen Saleha who is in the line of succession.

Wall Collapse During Independence Day Event in Sleman Injures 10 Residents

A wall at an elementary school in Sleman, Yogyakarta, collapsed onto residents participating in a community walk and exercise event, injuring ten people. The incident occurred during a celebration for the 81st Indonesian Independence Day, with victims resting against a perimeter wall that lacked proper foundations. Local authorities have confirmed that all medical expenses for the victims will be covered by the regional government.

Purbaya Officially Disburses Rp 20.5 T in Aid for Regional Civil Servant Salaries

The Ministry of Finance, under Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, has officially disbursed Rp 20.5 trillion in central government assistance to regional administrations facing cash flow pressures. The funds are prioritised for the payment of salaries for regional civil servants (ASN), including full-time and part-time government employees with work agreements (PPPK). This measure aims to ensure the continuity of local governance and public services across 497 identified regions experiencing fiscal stress following adjustments to the 2026 fiscal transfers.

Five Investment Managers Launch Sharia Gold ETFs on the Indonesia Stock Exchange

Five Indonesian investment managers, including Trimegah Asset Management and BRI Manajemen Investasi, are launching sharia-compliant gold Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) today. The launch coincides with the anniversary of the Indonesian capital market. The new instruments, such as Trimegah's XTRA and BRI's XDES, allow investors to trade gold-backed units through the stock exchange's trading mechanism.

Bamsoet Urges Automotive Communities to Safeguard National Unity and Energy Resilience

Indonesian politician Bambang Soesatyo (Bamsoet) has called on automotive communities to strengthen national solidarity and brotherhood amid global geopolitical tensions. He emphasised their strategic role in maintaining social stability and supporting government programmes, including energy conservation through efficient driving practices.

Dramatic Rescue of Two Workers Buried by Concrete at East Jakarta Waterway Project

Two construction workers were rescued after being trapped for over three hours when a concrete retaining wall collapsed at a waterway normalisation project in Cipinang Cempedak, East Jakarta. Fire and rescue personnel used heavy equipment and pumps to reduce water levels before carefully extracting the victims, who suffered head and leg injuries. The incident occurred on Sunday on Jalan DI Panjaitan, and both workers were subsequently taken to hospital for treatment.

When Banks and Securities Unite Customers' Financial Journeys

PT Bank CIMB Niaga Tbk and Ajaib Group have launched a strategic partnership integrating banking and stock investment services into a single digital platform. The collaboration aims to provide a one-stop financial ecosystem, targeting young investors and simplifying the investment process. This move is expected to broaden access to the Indonesian capital market and foster sustainable investment habits among millions of users.

OJK Appoints Alex Widi Kristiono as Candidate for IDX Commissioner

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has nominated Alex Widi Kristiono as a candidate to fill a vacant commissioner seat at the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) for the 2024-2028 term. The appointment is subject to shareholder approval at an Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders scheduled for 12 August 2026. The position became effective following an official OJK letter dated 4 August 2026.

BPK Praises BSSI as a Responsive Government Institution

The Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) has commended the National Cyber and Crypto Agency (BSSN) for being a responsive and responsible government body after it fully implemented all audit recommendations. BSSN also received an unqualified opinion (WTP) for its 2025 financial report and contributed to improving Indonesia's Global Cybersecurity Index. Despite the positive assessment, the BPK highlighted several areas requiring improvement, including the management of fixed assets and the need to return overpayments to the state treasury.

10 Scout Day Ceremony Addresses: Themes from Discipline to Anti-Bullying

Ahead of Indonesia's Scout Day on 14 August, a collection of ten concise addresses for ceremony leaders has been compiled, covering crucial themes for youth development. The speeches emphasise translating the Scout Law into daily action, navigating the digital world responsibly, and fostering character traits such as independence, social care, and environmental stewardship. The addresses also tackle contemporary issues like anti-bullying and the importance of maintaining national unity within the diverse nation.

All Ministries and Agencies Under BPK Audit Directorate I Achieve Unqualified Opinion for 2025 Financial Reports

The Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) announced that all eleven ministries and agencies under the purview of its Directorate General of State Financial Audit I received an Unqualified Opinion (WTP) for their 2025 financial reports. The BPK emphasised that this achievement reflects fair presentation in accordance with government accounting standards, while also issuing recommendations for strengthening internal controls and asset management. The board urged entities to view the WTP opinion as a foundation for continuous improvement and to embrace a 'Government 5.0' paradigm integrating digital technology and data-driven decision-making.

Police SuperApp Strengthens Public Service with Integrated 110 Emergency Feature

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) has enhanced its digital public service by integrating the emergency 110 hotline into its SuperApp platform. The feature allows citizens to directly contact the police for assistance or to report incidents, with the system connected down to the sub-district police (Polsek) level. Polri stated the integration aims to ensure faster response times and bring police services closer to the community.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Supplies Avtur for Emirates A380 at Soekarno-Hatta

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga successfully refuelled an Emirates Airbus A380 with 92,901 litres of avtur at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, demonstrating its capability to service large-body aircraft. The operation required specialised high-flow hydrant dispensers and strict quality control procedures. The company emphasised that safety and operational reliability are paramount when handling such large-scale refuelling operations.

Antam Gold Price Stagnant Today, What Is the Buyback Rate?

The price of gold produced by PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) remained unchanged in trading on Monday. The 1-gram bar was priced at Rp2,690,000, with the buyback rate also stagnant at Rp2,511,000 per gram. The article also notes the applicable income tax rates for gold purchases and buyback transactions.

Trade Minister Budi Santoso Pushes for Optimal Use of IUAE-CEPA to Strengthen Indonesia-UAE Trade

Indonesia's Trade Minister Budi Santoso met with UAE Minister Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi in Jaipur to discuss maximising the Indonesia-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IUAE-CEPA). Both ministers highlighted the pact's positive impact since 2023 and committed to resolving remaining implementation issues, including tariff rate quotas and anti-dumping cases. The UAE also announced plans to bring a business delegation to Indonesia to explore further cooperation opportunities.

Kaspersky Highlights AI Threats and Cyber Visibility Gaps in Asia Pacific

Kaspersky warns that the integration of AI into cyber attacks is allowing criminals to outpace organisational defences, creating significant visibility gaps in both IT and operational technology systems. The cybersecurity firm has identified thousands of malware samples disguised as AI software, highlighting a new supply chain risk. Kaspersky advocates for mature Security Operations Centres and human-machine intelligence to bridge the skills gap and shorten response times.

Mount Lewotolok Activity Declines, Status Remains at Level II

Volcanic activity at Mount Ile Lewotolok in East Nusa Tenggara has decreased, though its alert status remains at Level II (Waspada). The observation post reported a reduction in eruption column heights to 600 metres, with no lava flows observed during the period. Authorities continue to advise the public to stay outside the two-kilometre danger zone and remain cautious of potential hazards.

Coolita Launches Indonesia FAST Media Alliance with Local TV Stations

Coolita Technology, in partnership with China Intercontinental Communication Center, has launched the Indonesia FAST Media Alliance to accelerate the digital transformation of the country's broadcasting industry. The alliance includes major Indonesian broadcasters such as TVRI and Metro TV, aiming to expand Free Ad-supported Streaming TV (FAST) services. The initiative seeks to help local TV stations adapt to changing viewing habits by leveraging connected TV distribution and international collaboration.

President Prabowo Orders Pertamina and Other SOEs to Streamline Subsidiary Layers

President Prabowo Subianto has directed the management of state-owned enterprises, including Pertamina and PLN, to reduce the number of subsidiary layers to improve efficiency. The directive was given during a meeting with Pertamina's CEO, who also reported on the progress of the mandatory B50 biodiesel programme. The restructuring aims to create more agile state companies with faster decision-making processes.

Antam Gold Price Stable at Rp2.69 Million per Gram on Monday

The price of gold bullion produced by PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) remained unchanged at Rp2,690,000 per gram on Monday morning. The buyback price was also steady at Rp2,511,000 per gram. Transactions are subject to applicable taxes, including a 0.25 percent income tax on purchases and a 1.5 percent tax on buybacks exceeding Rp10 million.

Iran Prepares Bill to Ban US and Israeli Ships from Transiting the Strait of Hormuz

Iran's parliamentary commission has approved a draft law prohibiting American and Israeli vessels from navigating the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The proposed legislation also threatens foreign ships carrying goods linked to Israel with fines of up to 20 percent of the cargo's value. The move comes amid heightened tensions, with Tehran demanding compensation and sanctions relief from Washington before reopening the vital waterway.

Airlangga Signals No Tax Incentives for Hybrid Cars

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has indicated that the government is unlikely to provide additional tax incentives for hybrid vehicles, citing their already stable and growing sales. Meanwhile, Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa confirmed that current discussions are focused solely on expanding incentives for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and electric motorcycles. The government is targeting incentives for 500,000 electric cars and 500,000 electric motorcycles.

Gold ETF Officially Launches on IDX, Allowing Gold Investment via the Stock Exchange

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) has officially launched a gold Exchange Traded Fund (ETF), enabling investors to gain exposure to gold price movements without physically holding the metal. The launch coincides with the 49th anniversary of the reactivation of the Indonesian capital market. The Financial Services Authority (OJK) confirmed that the product has received necessary regulatory approvals, including from the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), with up to seven investment managers initially preparing to issue the ETF.

Minister: International film production in Indonesia provides positive multiplier effect

Creative Economy Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya stated that hosting international film productions like 'Happy Eyes' delivers a positive multiplier effect for the national economy. The production process stimulates local sectors including hospitality, transport, and logistics, while also promoting long-term tourism and facilitating foreign direct investment. The government is working to ease licensing, visa, and equipment processes to attract more international projects.

Rupiah Strengthens to Rp 17,810 Amid July Foreign Reserves and Iran-US Tensions in the Middle East

The Indonesian rupiah strengthened to Rp 17,810 per US dollar in spot trading on Monday, influenced by stable foreign exchange reserves and escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Bank Indonesia reported that reserves stood at US$145.3 billion at the end of July, supported by tax revenues and a global bond issuance. Meanwhile, reports emerged that Iran attacked what it called 'hostile targets' in the Strait of Hormuz, adding to global uncertainty.

Trump Admits US Has Reduced Efforts to Negotiate Peace Deal with Iran

President Donald Trump acknowledged that the United States has scaled back its diplomatic efforts with Iran, opting for a quieter approach while hoping economic pressure will yield results. He noted Iran's poor economic situation but refrained from issuing new military threats, shifting towards de-escalation after recently calling off a major strike.

IHSG Opens Up 0.48% to 6,440 Level

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened higher on Monday, gaining 0.48% amid a busy week for Indonesia's financial markets. Investors are anticipating the release of key domestic data, including consumer surveys and retail sales, culminating in the President's State Address and the submission of the 2026 State Budget Draft. Regional markets also advanced, although optimism over US-Iran talks regarding the Strait of Hormuz faded after Tehran denied direct negotiations.

Top Stories: Bromo Fire and Yacht Tourism Development

A roundup of leading news includes a forest fire in the Mount Bromo area, with the Forestry Minister entrusting the investigation to law enforcement. Other highlights feature an assessment of the Mecca Defence Pact, a new Transjakarta route, and the Ministry of Tourism's push to develop yacht tourism to strengthen Indonesia's maritime sector.

Pertamina CEO Updates Prabowo on B50 and Bioethanol Mandates in Hambalang Meeting

Pertamina CEO Simon Aloysius Mantiri met with President Prabowo Subianto at his Hambalang residence to report on the progress of the B50 biodiesel programme, launched in July 2026, and preparations for the government's bioethanol mandate. The President also instructed Pertamina to streamline its bureaucratic layers and reduce subsidiary companies to accelerate decision-making. Similar directives have been issued to PLN and other state-owned enterprises to boost productivity and maintain efficiency.

Rupiah Opens Stronger as US Dollar Drops to Rp17,800 This Morning

The Indonesian rupiah strengthened against the US dollar in early Monday trading, extending its positive momentum from the previous week. The appreciation comes despite a slight recovery in the dollar index, as weak US employment data dampened expectations of further Federal Reserve rate hikes. Market attention is now focused on upcoming US inflation figures and domestic consumer confidence data.

Malioboro Sign Photo Fee Controversy: Government Clarifies Free Photo Spots

The Yogyakarta government has clarified that a 'Malioboro' sign that sparked controversy after a tourist was asked to pay for photos is private property, not a public facility. Officials confirmed there are several government-provided photo spots in the Malioboro area that are free for public use. The government also reiterated that while traditional costume photography is allowed, commercial activities using private props that obstruct pedestrian areas are prohibited.

Environment Minister urges optimisation of carbon trading for communities

Environment Minister Moh Jumhur Hidayat has called for the optimisation of carbon trading to bring economic benefits to communities, likening it to trading oxygen produced by reforestation. He highlighted the potential in areas like Wonosobo, Central Java, where active tree planting can be compensated financially. The minister also encouraged the development of eco-tourism to promote environmental conservation alongside economic advancement.

IHSG Opens Higher, Poised to Strengthen Following Wall Street; Asian Markets Weaken

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened higher on Monday, gaining 30 points to 6,440, with analysts predicting further strengthening mirroring Wall Street's record close. This positive outlook follows weaker-than-expected US employment data, which eased concerns about imminent interest rate hikes. Meanwhile, Asian markets showed a mixed to weaker trend, influenced by falling AI-related stocks and geopolitical tensions.

DSSA to Transfer Up to 9.63 Billion Treasury Shares Starting 10 August 2026

PT Dian Swastatika Sentosa Tbk (DSSA), part of the Sinar Mas Group, plans to sell up to 9.63 billion treasury shares on the Indonesia Stock Exchange starting 10 August 2026. The sale represents 5% of the company's total issued shares and follows two stock splits that significantly increased the number of shares held in treasury. The company has appointed PT Sinarmas Sekuritas to execute the sale without requiring a general meeting of shareholders.