Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 10 August 2026

Showing 101-150 of 1,377 articles

Crypto Investment Grows in Indonesia, Education Seen as Key to Mitigating Risks

As the number of crypto investors in Indonesia continues to rise, industry players are emphasising the importance of financial literacy to ensure market participation is based on knowledge rather than trends. PT Pintu Kemana Saja (PINTU) has partnered with Ruangguru to provide workplace education covering asset characteristics, risk management, and security to help build a more mature and responsible digital asset ecosystem.

Germany Faces Threat of Major War, Government Prepares

Germany's Interior Minister has warned the country is a daily target of hybrid warfare, including espionage and sabotage, following an explosive-laden drone incident at Leipzig/Halle Airport. The government plans to double its anti-drone personnel and expand its base network in response. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic separately commented that Europe is engaged in the same hybrid tactics against Russia, predicting a prolonged conflict.

Welcoming Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, Citizens Urged to Safeguard Unity

As Indonesia approaches its 81st Independence Day, a youth leader has called on the public to strengthen national unity and maintain a peaceful atmosphere. Rio Novaldi, Secretary of the Greater Jakarta Marhaenist Youth Movement, emphasised the importance of critical thinking and verifying information to prevent hoaxes from disrupting social harmony. He urged citizens to ensure that the spirit of the commemoration is marked by mutual respect and togetherness.

Parking Attendant in Tambora Arrested After Forcing Motorist to Pay Rp5,000

A parking attendant in Tambora, West Jakarta, has been arrested after allegedly forcing a motorist to pay Rp5,000, double the usual fee. The dispute escalated when the victim refused, leading to threats of violence and a subsequent police report. Authorities are investigating the case under the Criminal Code and have urged the public to report any suspected criminal activity.

Medan Mayor Rico Waas Suspends East Medan Sub-district Head Over Position Auction Scandal

Medan Mayor Rico Tri Putra Bayu Waas has temporarily suspended the Head of East Medan Sub-district, Fernanda, following an Inspectorate audit that found he abused his authority. The audit concluded that Fernanda solicited and received money in exchange for promising job placements while serving as Acting Head of Medan Amplas. The suspension is an administrative measure to facilitate a disciplinary investigation, with a final verdict pending the completion of the examination process.

Indonesia expands firefighting as new Mount Bromo hotspots emerge

Indonesian authorities are intensifying firefighting operations as new hotspots flare up at Mount Bromo, with the national park remaining closed for at least another week. Plans to trigger artificial rainfall have been delayed due to unfavourable atmospheric conditions, with the meteorology agency forecasting persistent dry weather. The heightened wildfire risk is also affecting other major peaks across the country, including Mount Pangrango and Mount Rinjani.

Residents at Kendal Town Square Receive Free Laying Hens

Laying hen farmers from across Central Java staged a protest in Kendal, distributing 15,000 birds to residents for free to highlight their financial distress. The farmers are demanding government intervention as plummeting egg prices and soaring feed costs have made operations unviable. The Regent of Kendal has pledged to convey their demands, including calls for a dedicated livestock ministry, to the central government.

50 Underprivileged Residents in Kendal Equipped with Job-Ready Skills

A vocational training programme in garment and apparel manufacturing has been launched for 50 underprivileged residents in Kendal Regency, Central Java. The initiative, a collaboration between Ruang Amal Indonesia and the National and Regional Zakat Agencies, aims to boost local competitiveness and facilitate direct entry into the industrial workforce. The programme aligns with the region's growing industrial sector, including the Kendal Industrial Park.

Typhoon Dolphin Wreaks Havoc, Submerging China's Economic Heartland

Typhoon Dolphin has caused severe flooding across Shanghai and eastern China, paralysing transport networks and forcing the cancellation of nearly 1,000 flights. The storm, which made landfall in Zhejiang province, has disrupted metro and ferry services while flooding key business districts and suburban residential areas. Authorities have suspended non-essential businesses and schools as the remnants of the typhoon continue to bring heavy rainfall to several provinces.

Inter-Village Conflict on Adonara Ends Peacefully Through Traditional Rituals

A deadly land dispute between villages on Adonara Island, East Flores, has been formally resolved through a series of traditional rituals and a peace agreement. The reconciliation, witnessed by the Deputy Governor of East Nusa Tenggara, involved sacred ceremonies aimed at ending intergenerational enmity. The conflict had previously resulted in three fatalities and the destruction of 68 homes.

IPO Survey Places Bahlil and Golkar Third in Ministerial Performance and Electability

An Indonesia Political Opinion (IPO) survey has ranked Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia third in public assessment of ministerial performance within the Red and White Cabinet, while his Golkar Party also secured third place in political party electability. The survey indicates a linear relationship between public perception of a minister's performance and their popularity. The findings reflect the dynamic nature of public opinion regarding government performance and policy.

Blending Dhikr and Ablution: The Blessed Story of Chilli Harvesting at Az-Zikra Islamic Boarding School

Farmers at Pesantren Az-Zikra in Bogor, West Java, begin their work by performing dhikr and maintaining a state of ritual purity. The practice, termed 'Agro Zikir', is part of the boarding school's effort to integrate spiritual dimensions into daily agricultural activities. The initiative aims to ensure farming is not solely profit-oriented but also a form of spiritual endeavour.

Prolonged Drought: Dompet Dhuafa Distributes Clean Water to 370 Residents in Boyolali and Grobogan

A prolonged drought has triggered a clean water crisis for hundreds of residents in Boyolali and Grobogan, Central Java, severely impacting their livelihoods as farmers and livestock breeders. The Disaster Management Center of Dompet Dhuafa has intervened by distributing 36,000 litres of clean water to approximately 370 affected residents. Local communities have been forced to dig small wells in dried-up riverbeds, walking up to a kilometre to secure their daily water supply.

Stung by Governor's Remarks on Beggars and Tramadol, Cimahi Mayor Admits Shame Over Crime in 'City of Soldiers'

Cimahi Mayor Ngatiyana has responded to criticism from West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi regarding the circulation of restricted drugs and street crime. The mayor admitted it is shameful that a city known for its military presence continues to struggle with violent robberies and illegal pharmaceutical sales. He pledged to coordinate with local authorities to take firm action against the sources of public unrest.

Police Forensics Lab Secures 30 Items in Follow-Up Crime Scene Investigation at Pondok Pinang School

The Indonesian National Police's Forensic Laboratory (Puslabfor) has collected 30 additional items during a follow-up investigation at a private school in Pondok Pinang, South Jakarta. The search aimed to ensure the school was completely clear of hazardous materials following the earlier discovery of 995 airsoft guns, ammunition, and suspected narcotics. Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the motives and parties involved in the case.

Primecare Hospital Samarinda Targets Expansion of Healthcare Services in East Kalimantan

Primecare Hospital Samarinda has officially commenced operations, aiming to broaden access to comprehensive healthcare for East Kalimantan residents. The 115-bed Type C hospital, part of PT Primecare Hospital Group, was inaugurated by Samarinda Mayor Andi Harun. It offers premium-quality services with a focus on patient-centred care and advanced procedures like Minimal Invasive Surgery.

House Commission IX Calls on All Parties to Support 'Genting' Stunting Prevention Programme

House of Representatives Commission IX has urged all sectors, including local governments, businesses, and communities, to actively participate in the 'Gerakan Orang Tua Asuh Cegah Stunting' (Genting) programme. The commission emphasised that the initiative's success should be measured by the number of families and children genuinely protected from stunting, rather than the amount of aid distributed. The call was made during the launch of the programme in North Sulawesi, where the commission pledged to oversee its budget and implementation to ensure it reaches remote areas.

Kebaya No Longer Just for Formal Events: Here Are the New Trends

Indonesian traditional attire such as the kebaya and tenun is being reimagined for everyday urban wear through contemporary design collaborations. A new collection featuring modernised silhouettes and neutral palettes aims to integrate cultural heritage into casual daily fashion. The initiative is part of the 'HERITAGE REIMAGINED' programme at ASHTA District 8, Jakarta, exploring the evolution of legacy through fashion and craftsmanship.

Hanura Confident of Returning to Parliament in 2029 Election

The Hanura Party's Task Force Chairman, Patrice Rio Capella, has expressed absolute confidence that the party will secure seats in the national parliament during the 2029 General Election. Speaking at a consolidation event in Medan, he outlined a strict timeline to finalize the party's organizational structure across Indonesia by September 2026. The party is also preparing to dismiss underperforming regional leaders and will begin mapping electoral districts and identifying potential legislative candidates.

Tasikmalaya BPBD Distributes 341,000 Litres of Water to 6,905 Families Across 19 Districts Amid El Niño Emergency

The Tasikmalaya Regency Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) has distributed 341,000 litres of clean water to 6,905 families as the El Niño-induced dry season intensifies across 19 districts. Officials report that climate change is expanding the crisis, particularly in highland areas lacking piped water infrastructure. A local councillor has urged the regional government to implement long-term solutions such as community water supply programmes and small reservoirs to prevent recurring shortages.

Fire Near Kampung Bandan Station That Disrupted KRL Services Triggered by Cigarette Butt

A fire that broke out on land owned by KAI near Kampung Bandan Station in North Jakarta was successfully extinguished after nearly three hours. The blaze, which consumed 1.5 hectares of dry brush, is believed to have been sparked by a discarded cigarette butt. The incident temporarily disrupted Commuter Line services between Tanjung Priok and Jakarta Kota, but operations have since returned to normal.

Minister Reveals Prabowo's Full Support for Ecosystem Restoration, Targets 12 Million Hectares

Minister of Forestry Raja Juli Antoni has stated that President Prabowo Subianto is providing full support for ecosystem restoration efforts in Indonesia. The government aims to restore 12 million hectares of degraded land, with 6.7 million hectares located within forest areas. Concrete support includes a plan to increase the number of Forest Police personnel to 21,000 to strengthen conservation area monitoring.

BTN partners with Padang city government to expand mortgage and MSME services

State-owned Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) has entered a strategic partnership with the Padang city administration in West Sumatra to broaden its mortgage lending and support for micro, small, and medium enterprises. The collaboration aims to transform BTN from a housing finance provider into a comprehensive banking ecosystem partner for the local government. The initiative will also cover digitalisation of regional treasury management, public housing development, and healthcare financial services.

Accompanied by Wife, Bandung Barat Regent Inspects Road Repairs After a Decade of Neglect

Bandung Barat Regent Jeje Ritchie Ismail, accompanied by his wife Syahnaz Sadiqah, inspected the long-awaited repairs on the heavily damaged Purabaya-Jati road in Saguling District. The road, which had reportedly been in a state of severe disrepair for ten years, is finally receiving attention with an initial budget of IDR 4 billion allocated to repair a 934.5-metre section using concrete construction. The Regent committed to a phased, comprehensive infrastructure development plan across the entire regency, including remote southern areas, to boost mobility and the local economy.

Forensic Lab Collects 30 Items from Crime Scene at South Jakarta School Where Weapons Were Found

The National Police's Forensic Laboratory (Puslabfor) has collected 30 items, including airsoft guns, ammunition, and weapon parts, from a private school in South Jakarta. The crime scene investigation was conducted to ensure no dangerous items remained, following the earlier discovery of 995 weapons, ammunition, and suspected drugs in a room belonging to the former head of the foundation. Police are continuing their investigation into the case, which was reported by the public on 15 July 2026.

President's Name Misused in Academic Paper on SSRN, Minister Explains

The Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Brian Yuliarto, has confirmed an investigation into the unauthorised use of President Prabowo Subianto's name in a scholarly article on the SSRN platform. Initial findings indicate the lead author unilaterally included the names of prominent figures without their knowledge or consent. The ministry is now working to confirm these findings with all listed co-authors.

Five Gold ETFs Officially Launch on the IDX: Product List, Initial Prices, How to Buy, and Risks

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) have officially launched five sharia-compliant gold Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), marking a significant step in integrating the capital market with the nation's bullion ecosystem. The new products allow investors to gain exposure to physical gold price movements through tradable fund units without directly owning bullion. The launch is seen as a 'quick win' for deepening the financial market and providing more inclusive investment options.

South Korea and US to Hold Joint Military Drills Amid North Korean Threats

South Korea and the United States are set to conduct the annual Ulchi Freedom Shield military exercises in August 2026, designed to counter evolving threats from North Korea. The drills will focus on responses to drone attacks, electronic warfare, and cyber operations, reflecting lessons learned from North Korean troop deployments in Ukraine. Pyongyang has consistently condemned such exercises as provocative, while recently hardening its constitutional stance on reunification and its nuclear weapons programme.

Ahead of 42nd Anniversary, KBI Secures Three Awards in Two Events

PT Kliring Berjangka Indonesia (KBI) has won three awards across two separate events, recognising its corporate social responsibility and public relations efforts. The state-owned clearing and guarantee institution was honoured for its commitment to social and environmental programmes and for building a credible corporate reputation. The achievements come as the company prepares to celebrate its 42nd anniversary, reinforcing its focus on sustainable growth and stakeholder trust.

DKI Jakarta Council Member Kenneth Helps Student Overcome School Fee Arrears

Hardiyanto Kenneth, a member of the DKI Jakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD), has personally funded the administrative arrears and school uniform costs for a student at SMK Al-Irsyad in Central Jakarta. The assistance was provided after the council member received a complaint from a resident about a student at risk of dropping out due to financial difficulties. Kenneth urged the Jakarta provincial government to strengthen social protection policies for underprivileged students and called for community collaboration to ensure no child loses access to education due to economic hardship.

Why Residents of Ma'rib, Yemen, Do Not Fear a New War

Despite escalating military tensions across Yemen, residents of Ma'rib, including a displaced man whose soldier son has just sent his first pay, display a paradoxical calm. Having already endured years of conflict and displacement, the population appears more accustomed to the threat of war than panicked by its potential resumption, viewing recent developments with a glimmer of hope for a final resolution.

Indonesia's Growth Holds Up as Consumer Confidence, Investment Weaken

Indonesian consumer confidence has declined sharply since the start of 2026, prompting more defensive household spending and delays in big-ticket purchases despite headline economic growth of 5.29% in the second quarter. Economists warn that the resilience is not being felt evenly, as weakening domestic investment signals growing caution among businesses. Policymakers are urged to consider adjustments to restore confidence and ensure growth translates into broader job creation and income gains.

Nearly 300,000 Passengers Use Agglomeration Trains at Tegal Station

Tegal Station in Central Java served 294,649 passengers across three agglomeration train services during the first half of 2026, highlighting its strategic role in regional connectivity. The Kaligung service was the most popular, accounting for over half of the total passengers. State railway operator KAI emphasised that these regional services are vital for daily commutes, education, and trade, and pledged to continue improving service quality and operational patterns.

Failed Tender Leaves Karangasem Unable to Repair Damaged Streetlights

The Karangasem Transportation Agency has been unable to repair broken public streetlights since the start of 2026 after a procurement tender for light bulbs worth Rp 700 million failed to attract any bidders. While the agency can still fix issues like broken cables and faulty meters, the lack of bulbs has left many lights inoperable, sparking safety concerns among residents and local lawmakers. An official from the local parliament highlighted that the prolonged darkness on accident-prone roads is increasing the risk of traffic incidents.

Central Sulawesi DPRD Highlights Four Issues with PT CPM Gold Mine, Calls for Evaluation

The Central Sulawesi Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) has raised four key concerns regarding the operations of gold miner PT Citra Palu Minerals (CPM) in Palu City. These issues include the company's licensing status, plans for underground mining, tailings management, and the lack of a clear partnership with the surrounding community. The commission has urged the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources to evaluate the legal and regulatory standing of the company's operations.

Freeport Indonesia Projects 400,000 Tonnes of Copper Cathode Production in 2026

PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI) expects its copper cathode production to reach approximately 400,000 tonnes in 2026, combining output from its two smelters in Gresik, East Java. The company's new Manyar smelter is still ramping up, currently operating below 50% capacity, while the total combined capacity of both smelters is designed to produce up to 1 million tonnes of copper cathode annually. The US$3.7 billion Manyar smelter project represents a significant downstream investment in Indonesia's mineral processing sector.

MPR's Constitutional Commission Evaluates Regional Autonomy and Natural Resource Governance

The People's Consultative Assembly's Constitutional Studies Commission (K3 MPR) is compiling strategic recommendations on the implementation of regional autonomy, economic democracy, and agrarian reform. The commission gathered input from academics, highlighting persistent challenges such as agrarian conflict, regulatory overlap, and weak institutional frameworks. The findings will be submitted to the MPR leadership to strengthen constitutional practice in Indonesia.

Giant Flag Flies Again on Mount Kasumbo to Celebrate 81st Independence Day

A giant Indonesian flag was raised atop Mount Kasumbo in Tanah Datar, West Sumatra, marking the 12th annual event to commemorate the nation's 81st Independence Day. Local officials praised the initiative as a symbol of patriotism and a call for unity in continuing the development efforts of past heroes. The regional government also expressed hopes to develop the site into a tourist destination while reminding visitors to prevent wildfires in the area.

Lestari Moerdijat Urges Holistic School Culture Reform and Teacher Welfare Improvement

MP Lestari Moerdijat has stated that improving teacher welfare alone is insufficient to boost national education quality, calling for simultaneous improvements in governance and equitable teacher distribution. She emphasised that the government's plan to reform school culture must be supported by enhanced teacher skills and a comprehensive child protection system.

DPR Commission XI Urges Regional Governments to Uphold Accountability in Public Fund Management

A senior Indonesian legislator has called on regional governments, including municipally owned enterprises (BUMD) and regional public service agencies (BLUD), to strictly adhere to administrative, legal, and moral standards in managing public funds. Mukhamad Misbakhun emphasised that the Supreme Audit Agency's (BPK) role is to improve financial governance rather than merely find faults. He urged officials to ensure compliance from the planning stage to avoid issues during audits, which increasingly rely on electronic data and systems.

Ministry opens door to investment in Indonesia's rail network

Indonesia's government is actively courting domestic and foreign investment to expand its railway network, with a focus on boosting logistics connectivity and regional economic growth. Transportation Minister Dudy Purwagandhi confirmed interest from Russia, China, and state-owned PT Kereta Api Indonesia, particularly for projects in Sumatra and the planned Trans-Kalimantan line. The initiative follows President Prabowo Subianto's directive to accelerate major rail developments, including the Trans-Sumatra railway and the reactivation of inactive lines.

Kampung Bandan Station Operations Normalise After Land Fire

Train services at Kampung Bandan Station in North Jakarta have returned to normal following a land fire on Monday that temporarily disrupted the Commuter Line. The blaze, which consumed 15,000 square metres of dry scrubland owned by PT KAI, is suspected to have been caused by a discarded cigarette butt. Firefighters took over three hours to extinguish the flames, which had forced a temporary suspension of services between Tanjung Priok and Jakarta Kota for safety reasons.

Ministry of Social Affairs and Komnas HAM Synergise to Handle Refugees in Puncak Regency

The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs (Kemensos) and the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) have agreed to collaborate on assisting refugees affected by the recent conflict in Puncak Regency, Central Papua. The government has already distributed emergency aid to approximately 1,000 independent refugees, while Komnas HAM estimates the total number of displaced persons could exceed 5,000. Officials emphasised the urgent need for local government synergy in data collection to facilitate the provision of further aid, including staple foods, clothing, medical care, and temporary shelter.

ETLE Hub Expands to 51 Monitoring Points to Tackle Overloaded Trucks by 2027

The Ministry of Transportation has expanded its digital enforcement system, ETLE Hub, to 51 monitoring points across Indonesia as part of a drive to eliminate overloaded and oversized vehicles (ODOL) by 2027. The integrated platform connects vehicle identity, weighbridge data, and licensing records to enable systematic, data-driven supervision. Officials emphasised the system aims to improve compliance and road safety rather than simply increase the number of fines issued.

Airlangga: Gold ETF Strengthens Financial Market Depth, Indonesia Has Opportunity to Overtake India

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto stated that the launch of a Gold Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) will deepen Indonesia's financial market and expand investment options. He noted that with domestic gold assets held by Pegadaian reaching 153 tonnes, Indonesia has the potential to surpass India's gold ETF market. The new instrument also opens the door for insurance companies to invest in gold and integrates the bullion industry with the capital market.

Profile of Destry Damayanti, Prabowo's Sole Candidate for Bank Indonesia Governor

President Prabowo has formally nominated Destry Damayanti as the sole candidate for Governor of Bank Indonesia, succeeding Perry Warjiyo. Damayanti, currently serving as Senior Deputy Governor, brings over 26 years of experience in Indonesia's monetary and financial sectors. Her career includes senior roles at Mandiri Sekuritas, Bank Mandiri, and the Indonesia Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS).

West Bandung ASN Faces Dismissal After Live TikTok During Work Hours

A government employee in West Bandung Regency is under investigation and faces potential contract termination after being caught live streaming on TikTok during working hours. The Bupati confirmed the individual is being examined by the Inspectorate, with severe sanctions possible if violations are proven. The probe is also looking into remarks made during the broadcast regarding a 'one percent' fee allegedly related to internal projects.

At 48, AHY Urged to Strengthen Adaptive Leadership

Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) is being encouraged to continue strengthening his adaptive leadership as he turns 48, a milestone seen as a new cycle of service. Democratic Party Executive Director Sigit Raditya highlighted AHY's transformation from military officer to Coordinating Minister as evidence of his ability to navigate complex national challenges. The reflection draws parallels with the political journey of his father, former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, at a similar age.

Prosecutors Search Tabanan Health Office Over Alleged Fuel, Lubricant, and Meal Budget Corruption

Prosecutors in Tabanan, Bali, have searched the local Health Office as part of an investigation into alleged corruption involving fuel, lubricant, and meal budgets. The search, conducted by the special crimes unit, yielded several relevant documents. Authorities confirmed the case is still in the general investigation phase and no suspects have been named yet.

Boyolali Chicken Farmers Protest Skyrocketing Feed Prices, Distribute Free Poultry to Officials

Chicken farmers in Boyolali, Central Java, staged a protest by giving away their livestock to local government officials, highlighting the crippling impact of soaring feed costs. The price of corn, a key feed component, has surged well above the government's reference price, squeezing profit margins and forcing many small-scale farmers out of business. Local authorities have pledged to escalate their demands for intervention to the regent and central government.