Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 11 August 2026

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FIFA Political Landscape: 124 Nations Oppose Infantino, PSSI Leads Asian Support

The political landscape of world football has shifted significantly as 124 nations move to oppose Gianni Infantino's re-election due to controversial plans to privatise FIFA competition shares. The Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) has emerged as the first Asian federation to openly support the current FIFA President.

Tangerang City DPMPTSP Enters National Top 6, BKPM Conducts Field Verification

The Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming/BKPM is conducting field verification of Tangerang City's One-Stop Integrated Service and Investment Office (DPMPTSP) after it was shortlisted as one of the top six nominees nationally. The assessment evaluates infrastructure, human resources, and service quality to determine the final rankings, with results expected next month. Officials emphasised that the evaluation aims to drive continuous improvement in public service governance, transparency, and responsiveness to community feedback.

Bapanas Extends Corn SPHP Programme to Support Local Poultry Farmers

The National Food Agency (Bapanas) has extended its corn supply and price stabilisation programme to help local poultry farmers manage feed costs and sustain their businesses. The programme, which has distributed 118,000 tonnes of corn to over 5,000 small and medium-scale farmers, aims to keep feed prices affordable amid market pressures. Farmer groups have welcomed the government's commitment to balancing input costs with production prices.

Airlangga: Indonesia's Economic Fundamentals Strong and Worthy of Investment

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has affirmed that Indonesia's economic fundamentals remain robust amid global uncertainty, underpinned by strict fiscal discipline and stable investment ratings. He highlighted the country's maintained investment grade status from S&P, Fitch, and Moody's, as well as a Triple A rating for its Panda Bonds. Airlangga urged market players to focus on good corporate governance and transparency, noting Indonesia's position as the largest investor base in ASEAN and expressing optimism for an acceleration in IPOs in the second half of 2026.

Airlangga Affirms Indonesia's Strong Economic Fundamentals Amid Global Dynamics

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has asserted that Indonesia's economic fundamentals remain robust, underpinned by fiscal discipline, investment-grade sovereign ratings, and strong investor confidence. Speaking at an AEI event, he highlighted the country's stable macroeconomic indicators and urged market participants not to be overly concerned by minor assessments. He also noted Indonesia's leading position in ASEAN for investor numbers and its status as home to the region's second-largest listed companies.

Silver Media Group Taps Chris John to Develop 'Dragon's Dojo'

Singapore-based Silver Media Group has partnered with Indonesian boxing legend Chris John to develop 'Dragon's Dojo', a mobile-first vertical animated series inspired by Indonesian folklore. The project marks the first instalment of the ASERYA Asian Mythology Franchise, which aims to blend real-life champions with mythical storytelling across animation, comics, games, and merchandise. The series will feature John as an animated mentor guiding young characters, with the broader franchise seeking to introduce Asian legends to a global audience.

Culture Ministry Prepares Bogor Historical Sites for National Cultural Heritage Status

The Ministry of Culture is preparing several historical sites in Bogor Regency, West Java, for revitalisation and elevation to National Cultural Heritage status. Minister Fadli Zon highlighted plans to develop sites such as Ciaruteun and Kebon Kopi, including creating a replica for a lost inscription, while also exploring cultural collaborations with the local government.

Indonesia Seeks Added Value from AI Investment Boom

Indonesia aims to leverage its large digital market to attract investment, technology transfer, and talent development amid intensifying artificial intelligence competition in the Asia-Oceania region. The National ICT Entrepreneurs Association (Aptiknas) warns the country must not remain a mere consumer of technology but should secure tangible benefits such as local competency building and market access for domestic solutions. The upcoming ASOCIO Digital & AI Summit 2026 in Jakarta is seen as a key opportunity to convert dialogue into concrete business deals and partnerships for Indonesian firms.

KPAI Applauds Police Awards to Children as Motivation for Development

The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has praised the National Police for presenting awards to children, viewing the recognition as a catalyst for their growth and achievement. The awards were part of the 'Apresiasi Kreasi Polri Untuk Masyarakat' event, which honoured winners across 30 competition categories. KPAI hopes the police will expand such initiatives to provide more opportunities for children to develop their talents in line with the vision of a Golden Indonesia 2045.

KP2MI Reveals Options, Quotas for 2026 SMK Go Global Work Programme

The Ministry of Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (KP2MI) has announced the job sectors and quotas available for the 2026 SMK Go Global programme, targeting placements in countries across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The initiative aims to align vocational training with international labour market demands, offering over 39,000 positions in hospitality, healthcare, manufacturing, and agriculture. The government hopes the programme will curb illegal migration by providing formal, competency-based overseas employment pathways.

Child Protection Advocate Praises Police for Embracing Children Through Awards and Creativity Competitions

Seto Mulyadi, a prominent child protection advocate, has lauded the Indonesian National Police for its community engagement efforts, stating that creative competitions help transform the police image from one of fear to one of affection. He highlighted the importance of such initiatives in building positive character among the nation's youth ahead of the 'Golden Indonesia 2045' vision. The appreciation event saw awards distributed across 30 competition categories, ranging from public communication to food security.

Rice Stock at Bulog Meger Warehouse in Klaten Abundant, Procurement Continues

The Bulog Meger warehouse in Klaten, Central Java, holds a surplus of 16,300 tonnes of rice, sufficient to meet demand until the end of the year. Despite the ample reserves, the state logistics agency continues to procure grain and rice from local farmers. A distribution of food aid will soon provide 30 kilograms of rice to each of the 179,842 beneficiary families in the region.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Drafts Child-Friendly Pesantren Guidelines to Prevent Violence

The Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs is developing a 2026 Child-Friendly Pesantren Guideline aimed at strengthening violence prevention and student protection systems within Islamic boarding schools. The draft was discussed in Jakarta with stakeholders including the Indonesian Child Protection Commission, the Women's Empowerment Ministry, and the National Police's Criminal Investigation Division. The initiative seeks to ensure pesantren provide a safe and comfortable learning environment for all students.

MSCI Review on 12 August: Investors Await Signals of Indonesian Market Normalisation

Ahead of the MSCI index review on 12 August 2026, Mirae Asset Sekuritas Indonesia advises investors to look beyond mere constituent changes. The market is keenly awaiting signals on whether MSCI will ease special treatments affecting the investability and accessibility of Indonesian equities. The decision is seen as crucial for providing a roadmap towards normalising the perception of the country's capital market.

Airlangga Urges Listed Companies to Strengthen Transparency for Investor Confidence

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has called on all publicly listed companies to enhance performance, governance, and transparency to maintain market trust and support national economic stability. Speaking at the 2026 Indonesian Listed Companies Association (AEI) meeting, he highlighted the government's commitment to resolving business obstacles through its Debottlenecking Task Force. The newly re-elected AEI chairman, Armand Wahyudi Hartono, pledged to focus on rebuilding investor confidence through stronger corporate fundamentals and consistent communication over the next three years.

Sorong Mayor Lays First Stone for GKI Training Centre in Tanah Papua

Sorong Mayor Septinus Lobat has officiated the start of construction for a new GKI Training and Development Centre in Southwest Papua. The facility, built on 4.3 hectares, aims to enhance the quality of human resources through faith-based training for clergy and congregations. The project carries an estimated budget of IDR 56.7 billion and will include an auditorium, resorts, a wedding chapel, and a sports centre.

Cooperative-Based Palm Oil Downstreaming to Strengthen Farmers' Bargaining Power

The Indonesian government is advancing a cooperative-based palm oil downstreaming strategy to enhance the bargaining power of smallholder farmers and improve welfare. The initiative, supported by state-owned PT Agrinas Palma Nusantara, will involve cooperatives in managing seized forest land and encourages them to establish their own crude palm oil (CPO) mills. The scheme aims to shift farmers from being mere raw material suppliers to key players in the downstream industry.

KY Ensures Transparent Selection Process for Supreme Court Justices and Ad Hoc Judges

The Judicial Commission (KY) has affirmed that the selection process for Supreme Court justices and ad hoc judges for human rights and corruption cases is being conducted transparently and with public oversight. The KY has submitted 14 candidates to the House of Representatives for approval, emphasizing the use of a blind review mechanism to prevent bias. The commission also opened public participation to gather information on the integrity and competence of the candidates.

Food security: Kowani promotes women-led cassava downstreaming

The Indonesian Women's Congress (Kowani) is pushing for the downstream processing of cassava, led by women, to strengthen food security and village economies. The initiative aims to transform cassava from a raw commodity into innovative, high-value products for modern and export markets. A national innovation challenge and a collaborative roadmap involving government, academia, and industry are being developed to support this goal.

Gianyar Police Earn 'Excellent' Service Award from Ministry of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform

The Gianyar Resort Police (Polres Gianyar) has been awarded an 'A' grade for excellent public service by the Ministry of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform (KemenPAN-RB) for 2025. The award was presented by the Bali Police Chief and recognises the force's efforts to improve service quality. The Gianyar Police Chief pledged to continue innovating and enhancing professional, transparent, and responsive public services.

Mimika Immigration Office deports PNG citizen for illegal entry

The Mimika Immigration Office in Central Papua has deported a Papua New Guinea citizen, identified as RA, for entering and residing in Indonesia without valid travel documents. The individual reportedly entered illegally via the land border in Jayapura and used an old student ID to travel to Timika. Authorities coordinated with the PNG Consulate General and the Jayapura Immigration Office to carry out the administrative deportation.

Toba Caldera Culture Festival 2026: Bobby Nasution Pushes for Batak Culture to Go Global

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution has pledged provincial government support for the Toba Caldera Culture Festival 2026, aiming to elevate Batak culture on the international stage. The festival, scheduled for September in Samosir Regency, is expected to boost cultural promotion and tourist visits. Organisers are encouraged to collaborate with the tourism office to showcase regional music and arts.

Child's Cigarette Butt Sparks House Fire in Grobogan, Mother Dies

A house fire in Grobogan, Central Java, claimed the life of a woman after her child allegedly discarded a lit cigarette butt onto a pile of clothes. The husband, who was cooking at the time, discovered the fire and, in a panic, forgot his ailing wife was still inside the bedroom. Local authorities are investigating the incident, which highlights the domestic dangers of underage smoking.

Yaqut Cholil Qoumas Challenges Corruption Charges in Hajj Quota Case

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has formally challenged the corruption charges against him concerning the management of Indonesia's 2023-2024 hajj quota. His legal team argues the indictment is flawed, highlighting the omission of a key figure and contending that the alleged financial losses do not constitute state losses. The defence maintains that the minister's policy decisions should be examined under administrative law rather than criminal corruption statutes.

Student Initiative to Strengthen MBG Programme Governance Receives Full Backing

The Central Leadership Council of Advocates for the People of the Archipelago (DPP ARUN) has fully endorsed a student alliance's research and 'live-in' programme at nutritional service units (SPPGs). The initiative aims to strengthen the governance of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme by examining its local economic impact. Findings from a pilot study in Tangerang suggest that proper implementation of the programme, in line with Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution, boosts local purchasing power through the absorption of micro-enterprises and local labour.

Telkom Introduces Connectivity+ for High-Speed, Wide-Reaching Digital Access

State-owned telecommunications giant Telkom Indonesia has launched Connectivity+, a high-speed connectivity solution designed to support digital transformation across various business sectors. The service was unveiled at the Digital Transformation Indonesia Conference & Expo 2026, aiming to provide reliable internet access and foster economic opportunities in remote regions. TelkomGroup emphasised that equitable network access across the archipelago remains a key priority, supported by its extensive infrastructure spanning fibre optics, undersea cables, and satellites.

Police Open Digital Space for Gen Z and Alpha with Mobile Legends and AI Animation Competitions

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) is engaging younger generations through digital creativity as part of its 80th Bhayangkara Day celebrations. Competitions include e-sports like Mobile Legends, AI animation, and cosplay, alongside traditional community awards. The initiative aims to foster innovation and inclusivity while strengthening the police's public image ahead of the 2045 Golden Generation vision.

Hajj corruption case: Former special staffer to Yaqut charged with self-enrichment of IDR 93 billion

Ishfah Abidal Aziz, a former special staffer to ex-Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, has been charged with illicitly enriching himself by IDR 93.42 billion in a corruption case involving Indonesia's hajj quota. Prosecutors allege the funds were received as fees for expediting the organisation of the pilgrimage in 2023 and 2024. The scheme, which also implicates the former minister and other travel company officials, is said to have caused state losses of IDR 622 billion.

Gemini AI: What Can It Do? Here Are the Features You Need to Know

Google's Gemini AI is a multimodal artificial intelligence model capable of handling text, images, video, audio, and code. It integrates seamlessly with Google Workspace tools like Gmail and Docs to assist with drafting emails, summarizing documents, and analysing complex data. The technology is positioned as a significant productivity booster for both professional and creative tasks.

Megawati Inaugurates New Bamusi Leadership for 2026-2030, Gus Falah Appointed Chairman

PDI Perjuangan Chairperson Megawati Soekarnoputri has inaugurated the new executive board of Baitul Muslimin Indonesia (Bamusi) for the 2026-2030 period, appointing House of Representatives member Nasyirul Falah Amru as its new chairman. Megawati urged the party's religious wing to conduct inclusive Islamic outreach and act as a unifying force. The leadership transition marks a shift from the late academic Prof. Dr. Hamka Hak to Gus Falah, a politician with a strong pesantren background.

US Human Rights Groups Sue Trump Administration Over ICC Sanctions

A coalition of human rights organisations, including Human Rights Watch, has filed a lawsuit against President Donald Trump's administration, arguing that sanctions imposed on the International Criminal Court obstruct victims of war crimes from seeking justice. The legal action follows Washington's freezing of assets and imposition of travel bans on ICC judges and prosecutors after the court investigated alleged war crimes involving Israel. The lawsuit also names Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, marking a new chapter in tensions between the US and the international tribunal.

Strengthening National Vital Object Security: Danlanal Balikpapan Visits PHM Offshore Oil and Gas Operations

The Commander of the Balikpapan Naval Base visited PT Pertamina Hulu Mahakam's Bekapai offshore facility to reinforce security coordination for the National Vital Object. The visit underscores the critical role of collaboration between the company, regulator SKK Migas, and the Indonesian Navy in safeguarding strategic energy assets. Ensuring safe and reliable operations at the mature Bekapai field is deemed essential for sustaining national energy resilience.

Forest Fires Engulf 50 Hectares of Peatland in Rokan Hilir, Riau

Forest and land fires have destroyed approximately 50 hectares of peatland in Rokan Hilir Regency, Riau, with firefighting efforts now in their third day. Authorities report that strong winds, abundant dry fuel, and distant water sources are hampering operations to extinguish the blaze, which is burning on state-owned limited production forest land. The fire is proving difficult to tackle as it is burning on peat soil, where embers persist beneath the surface.

Prabowo's Niece Inaugurates NTB Tidar Leadership, Urges Support for Government Programmes

Rahayu Saraswati Djojohadikusumo, the niece of President Prabowo Subianto, has inaugurated Muhammad Alfian as the Chairman of the Tunas Indonesia Raya (Tidar) organisation for West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) for the 2026-2031 period. During the ceremony, she urged the youth wing of the Gerindra Party to effectively communicate government programmes and absorb the aspirations of young people ahead of the 2029 elections. The newly appointed chairman, Alfian, pledged to oversee the implementation of the President's strategic programmes in the region.

Golkar Politician Says IPO Survey Signals Positive Performance for Bahlil

Golkar Party politician Eric Hermawan has interpreted the latest Indonesia Political Opinion (IPO) survey as a positive signal for public trust in the government, highlighting Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia's strong performance rating. Bahlil secured third place with a 32 percent positive perception, closely trailing the Cabinet Secretary, which Hermawan views as evidence of political resilience in a high-scrutiny sector. He noted that the narrow gap between Bahlil's popularity and his positive performance rating could bolster confidence in the ministry and President Prabowo Subianto's economic agenda.

Grab Indonesia Invites Partners to Synergise for Growth

Grab Indonesia is encouraging its driver and merchant partners to develop new skills and explore opportunities within its ecosystem. The company has launched the GrabAcademy platform, offering online and in-person training to help partners upskill and transition into different roles. Over 1.15 million driver-partners have accessed the platform, with more than 204,000 completing all modules.

Police Arrest Ride-Hailing Driver for Sexual Assault on Passenger in West Jakarta

A 54-year-old ride-hailing driver has been arrested in West Jakarta for allegedly sexually assaulting a female passenger. The suspect, identified as ARA, reportedly harassed the victim multiple times during the journey from Petukangan to Jembatan Besi. He was apprehended by the victim's boyfriend and local residents before being handed over to the police.

Warm Moment as National Police Chief Gives Children Space to Create, from Storytelling to Aspirations

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo provided a platform for three children to showcase their storytelling talents and share their dreams during a Polri appreciation event in Jakarta. The interaction highlighted the importance of nurturing children's confidence and listening to their aspirations, with the children expressing ambitions to become a doctor, a police officer, and a paediatrician. The event underscored the police force's commitment to supporting youth development beyond mere protection.

Indonesia opens registration for 'SMK Go Global' until August 16

The Indonesian Ministry for the Protection of Migrant Workers has launched the 'SMK Go Global' program to equip young Indonesians with skills for the global job market. The initiative offers training in sectors like healthcare, hospitality, and manufacturing, alongside language and cultural preparation, with registration open until August 16. The government aims to provide a transparent and accessible pathway for citizens to secure overseas employment through official channels.

Indonesia speeds up charging station expansion to match EV growth

The Indonesian government is accelerating the deployment of electric vehicle charging infrastructure through a new development plan covering 2025–2030, which targets diverse locations such as shopping centers, offices, and tourist spots. Officials aim to streamline business licensing to attract more private investment in charging stations, supporting the country's broader EV ecosystem. This push comes as electricity consumption at public charging stations surged to 62.4 million kWh in the first half of 2026, already surpassing the entire previous year's total.

Agrinas urged to build palm oil ecosystem with cooperatives

Indonesia's Cooperatives Minister has urged Agrinas to develop a palm oil ecosystem directly with cooperatives, citing Malaysia's Felda as a model for consolidating smallholder plantations to boost productivity and exports. Agrinas, which holds a special mandate to manage plantations from reclaimed forest areas, is required to allocate at least 20 percent of its land to smallholder plasma plots, necessitating partnerships with farmer cooperatives. The initiative aims to strengthen smallholders' role in the industry and expand Indonesia's crude palm oil export capacity and downstream processing.

Purwakarta Police Distribute Clean Water to Drought-Affected Residents

The Purwakarta Police deployed an Armoured Water Cannon vehicle to supply clean water to residents in Babakan Cikao facing shortages due to the dry season. The initiative is part of the police's commitment to assisting communities with basic needs beyond security. Authorities also urged residents to conserve water and remain vigilant against forest and land fires during the prolonged dry spell.

Gov't invites public to join Merdeka Run 2026

The Indonesian government is inviting the public to participate in the Merdeka Run 2026, a free event celebrating the 81st anniversary of Indonesia's independence. Scheduled for August 29, 2026, in Jakarta, the 8-kilometer run will feature MSME booths, a culinary festival, and entertainment, with Minister Erick Thohir emphasising it as a moment for national unity and gratitude. The event is open to both citizens and foreign nationals, reflecting Indonesia's engagement with the global community.

Komodo National Park Clarifies Visitor Numbers After Celebrity's Controversial Trip to Padar Island

The Komodo National Park Office (BTNK) confirmed that 190 tourists visited Padar Island on 7 August, the day actress Jessica Mila's trip sparked controversy due to a sailing ban. BTNK clarified that while the harbour master had closed sailing routes due to bad weather, tourism services within the park continued as normal for visitors already in the area or arriving from unaffected directions.

Indonesia Modernizes Air Force with New Rafale Jets and Expanded Pilot Training

Indonesia is significantly bolstering its air defense capabilities through the acquisition of advanced fighter jets like the Dassault Rafale and T-50i Golden Eagle, alongside a major push to expand and enhance pilot training. The Ministry of Defense has confirmed the purchase of new aircraft, while the Air Force is reforming its curriculum and recruiting civilian pilots to meet operational needs. These efforts, part of President Prabowo Subianto's vision, have already seen milestones including pilots logging thousands of flight hours on new platforms and completing solo flights in the Rafale.

Yogyakarta Hosts Forum on Local Government Cooperation Between Indonesia and China

Yogyakarta is hosting a dialogue aimed at strengthening cooperation between Indonesian and Chinese local governments, with 70 delegates from China and several Indonesian regional heads in attendance. The forum is exploring concrete partnerships, including a potential sister city agreement with Urumqi and a scholarship programme for 50 Indonesian students annually. Organisers hope the event will translate high-level bilateral agreements into pragmatic local collaboration across investment, education, culture, and technology.

KP2MI Opens Registration for 40,000 SMK Go Global Participants Until 16 August

Indonesia's Ministry of Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (KP2MI) has launched the first phase of its SMK Go Global capacity-building programme, targeting 40,000 vocational school participants. The initiative aims to equip young Indonesians with the technical skills, language proficiency, and cultural understanding required for the global job market. Registration is open from 12 to 16 August 2026 through official KP2MI channels.

500 Pregnant Women Receive Free Health Screenings as Brebes Regency Nurtures Healthy Generation

The Brebes Regency administration in Central Java has provided free health examinations and education to 500 pregnant women through a corporate social responsibility programme by the local public hospital. The initiative, attended by Regent Paramitha Widya Kusuma, aims to improve maternal and child health as a foundation for a strong future generation. The programme included medical check-ups, consultations with specialists, and nutritional guidance, funded entirely by the hospital's social support scheme.

Airlangga Urges Listed Companies to Strengthen Performance to Maintain Market Confidence

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has called on Indonesian listed companies to enhance their performance, governance, and transparency to sustain investor trust and support national economic stability. Speaking at the 2026 AEI members' meeting, he highlighted the government's efforts to resolve business obstacles through a dedicated task force. The Indonesian Issuers Association (AEI) also reaffirmed its commitment to focusing on strengthening investor confidence over the next three years.

TNI Presents Dewa 19's Yuke to Help Restore Trauma of Aceh Residents During Independence Day Celebrations

The Indonesian Army's Korem 011/Lilawangsa invited Dewa 19 bassist Yuke Sampurna to entertain residents in Aceh as part of the 81st Independence Day commemorations. The event aimed to help restore the community's spirit and alleviate trauma following recent floods. The initiative also featured local bands and culinary MSMEs to boost the local economy.

Pramono Anung Condemns Alcohol-Branded Quran Recitation Challenge in Jakarta

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has strongly condemned a promotional stunt at a music festival that offered alcohol as a reward for reciting the Quran, calling it a desecration of religious life. The governor has instructed officials to take firm action against the organisers, while the MC involved has publicly apologised for the incident. Police are now investigating the event, which has sparked widespread public outrage and calls for sanctions.

Yaqut's Legal Team Highlights Missing Names in Hajj Quota Corruption Indictment

The legal team for former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has questioned why several individuals implicated in the alleged corruption of additional hajj quotas for 2023-2024 were omitted from the indictment. They argued that technical-level officials directly involved in setting and receiving fees are not being prosecuted, while the case is directed at the former minister. The defence has requested a full disclosure of facts in court to reveal all parties who benefited from the policy.

Yaqut files objection against hajj quota corruption charges

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has filed a legal objection to the corruption charges against him concerning the 2023-2024 hajj quota. His legal team argues the indictment is flawed, questioning the absence of other key figures and the characterisation of private profits as state losses. The case, involving alleged losses of Rp622 billion, will resume on 12 August with the defence's objection hearing.

YKMI Urges Trade Ministry to Revoke Newport Alcohol Distribution Permit

The Indonesian Muslim Consumers Foundation (YKMI) has demanded the Ministry of Trade revoke the distribution licence for Newport alcoholic beverages following a promotion that challenged visitors to recite a Quranic verse for free drinks. YKMI Chairman Ferry Irawan condemned the marketing stunt as a form of religious harassment that violates moral, ethical, and legal boundaries. The organisation is also calling for a boycott of products linked to the OT Group and urging law enforcement to pursue criminal charges against all parties involved in the event.

Google Cloud AI Technology Cuts Dental Booking Time to 15 Seconds

FDC Dental Clinic in Indonesia has deployed Google Cloud's artificial intelligence to slash patient booking times from up to one hour to just 15 seconds. The system, built with Vertex AI and Gemini, automates reservations and payments, significantly boosting operational efficiency. The firm reports a 35% reduction in infrastructure costs and aims to expand its network to over 100 clinics to improve nationwide access to dental care.

Danantara's Rp44 Trillion Investment in JBS Group to Boost Indonesia's Protein Industry

Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund, BPI Danantara, has invested US$2.5 billion in Brazilian food giant JBS Group. The investment aims to secure technology and knowledge transfer to strengthen Indonesia's domestic protein production capacity. The deal includes a 25 per cent stake in a new joint venture managing JBS's operations in Australia and New Zealand.

Foreign Ministry Confirms Indonesian Crew Among Victims in Bab Al-Mandeb Attack

Indonesia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that three Indonesian crew members were aboard a commercial vessel attacked by a drone in the Bab Al-Mandeb Strait, Yemen. One crew member sustained minor injuries, another required hospital treatment, and a third is reported by international media to have been killed, though this is still being verified. The Indonesian Embassy in Muscat is coordinating with local authorities to provide consular protection and facilitate the possible repatriation of the survivors.

Peatland Fires Spread to Jambi's East Coast

Peatland fires in Jambi have expanded to the eastern coastal regency of Tanjungjabung Timur, with blazes reported in several sub-districts. Firefighting teams from Manggala Agni and a joint task force have managed to extinguish some fires, but a significant blaze covering approximately 50 hectares in Muarojambi continues to burn. Authorities are deploying ground and aerial water bombing operations to contain the remaining hotspots.

Nusron outlines mechanism for resolving agrarian conflicts

Agrarian and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid has detailed three categories of land conflict, emphasising that the status of the land determines the resolution mechanism. Conflicts involving private assets are relatively straightforward to resolve, whereas disputes over state assets and forest areas require more cautious handling due to legal and financial implications. The government's approach varies significantly depending on whether the land is privately owned, a state asset, or part of a forest zone.

Badung Regency Government Sharpens Literacy Skills of Teachers and Librarians to Combat Hoaxes

The Badung Regency Government is enhancing the information literacy skills of teachers, librarians, and literacy activists to prevent the spread of hoaxes in the digital era. The initiative, conducted through technical guidance supported by the National Library's special allocation fund, aims to equip participants to critically evaluate information. Officials stressed the strategic role of educators in fostering a discerning and competitive society.

Gus Yaqut Denies Receiving Money in Hajj Quota Corruption Case

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has denied receiving any money in connection with the alleged corruption of additional Hajj quotas for 2023-2024, which prosecutors claim caused state losses of Rp622 billion. Speaking after his indictment at the Jakarta Corruption Court, he argued that others named in the case had received funds and questioned where the state's financial loss occurred. His legal team also highlighted discrepancies in the indictment, noting that some individuals mentioned in the case narrative were absent from the final charges.

Indonesian energy revenues will surpass target, minister says

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has guaranteed that non-tax state revenue from the mineral, coal, and oil and gas sectors will exceed 100 percent of the 2026 target. As of July, the ministry's non-tax revenue had reached Rp96.26 trillion, or 70.69 percent of the full-year goal. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa noted that overall tax revenue growth remained stable at 23 percent year-on-year, urging the energy ministry to push its contribution even higher.

Through M4CR, Coastal Ecosystem Conservation Becomes Key to Food Security in Bulungan, North Kalimantan

Traditional shrimp farmers in Bulungan, North Kalimantan, have reversed declining harvests by adopting silvofishery, a method integrating mangrove planting within aquaculture ponds. Supported by the Mangroves for Coastal Resilience (M4CR) programme, the initiative has restored 77 hectares of mangroves and doubled shrimp yields. The programme is now expanding into crab fattening to further bolster local livelihoods and food security.

Gita Bahana Nusantara Showcases Readiness at Pakansari Ahead of 81st Independence Day

The Gita Bahana Nusantara (GBN) 2026 ensemble held a preparatory concert in Bogor, featuring 120 choir members from 30 provinces alongside a 60-piece orchestra. Minister of Culture Fadli Zon stated the performance is a key part of the build-up to the main Independence Day ceremony at the State Palace on 17 August. The minister highlighted the event as a reflection of Indonesia's cultural diversity and a unifying force for the nation.

Minister urges cooperatives to build their own CPO mills for downstreaming

Indonesia's Cooperatives Minister has called on plantation cooperatives to establish their own crude palm oil mills to strengthen the industry's supply chain and improve farmers' bargaining power. The initiative, supported by state-owned PT Agrinas Palma Nusantara and financing from the LPDB Koperasi, aims to boost smallholder productivity and public welfare. The government sees cooperative-based downstreaming as a key strategy for achieving independent cooking oil production and enhancing food security.

Asiana introduces technology to convert waste into alternative fuel

PT Asiana Technologies has unveiled a method to process Indonesia's high-moisture municipal waste into Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) with a calorific value exceeding 3,500 kcal/kg. The resulting solid fuel is intended for use as a co-firing companion to coal in industrial facilities, offering a gradual transition towards renewable energy. The company also introduced a smart container system with AI monitoring to improve waste collection and compaction efficiency.

Ministry of Human Rights to Coordinate with PMK Ministry on 124,000 Displaced by Papua Conflict

The Indonesian Ministry of Human Rights is set to coordinate with the Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Culture to address the plight of approximately 124,000 people displaced by conflict in Central Papua. Deputy Minister Mugiyanto stressed that the response must go beyond security concerns to ensure the safety, health, education, and daily needs of civilians are met. The government is also pushing for stronger data collection to accurately identify and assist all affected communities.

Megawati Appoints Pinka Haprani as TMP Chair, Replacing Hendrar Prihadi

PDI-P Chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri has inaugurated Diah Pikatan Orissa Putri Haprani as the new head of the party's youth wing, Taruna Merah Putih (TMP), for the 2025-2030 period. Pinka Haprani, who also serves in the House of Representatives, emphasised the need to engage young voters, who are projected to make up 56 per cent of the electorate by 2029. Megawati also stressed the importance of scientific research in political strategy, appointing Andi Widjajanto to lead the party's research and policy analysis body.

Hanura Hopes for Improved Election Quality in 2029, Proposes This Scheme

The Hanura Party has proposed a combined open and closed-list proportional system for the 2029 legislative elections. The party argues that the current fully open-list system allows wealthy candidates to displace dedicated party cadres. The proposed hybrid model would see the first seat allocated to the party's top-listed candidate, with subsequent seats determined by the popular vote.

Daihatsu Records 591 Orders at GIIAS 2026, Sigra Becomes Best-Selling Model

Daihatsu concluded its participation at the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2026 with 591 vehicle orders, an increase from the previous year. The Sigra model led sales with 122 units, while the brand also secured multiple awards including a Special Concept Car prize for the K-Vision. The company stated the results demonstrate the continued relevance of its products for both family and commercial use.

House Commission VII Urges NTB Government to Address Issues at Gili Tramena Tourist Destination

The House of Representatives' Commission VII has called on the West Nusa Tenggara provincial government to seriously tackle fundamental problems in the Gili Tramena tourist area. Lawmakers highlighted the critical issues of clean water shortages and waste management, warning they could deter visitors and hinder sustainable tourism. Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal acknowledged the challenges and pledged to resolve land status, water, and waste issues by the end of the year.

Trump Secretly Departed Turkey After Iran Threat Escalated

President Donald Trump was covertly moved to a separate military aircraft during his departure from Turkey following a NATO summit in July, according to a report. The clandestine operation was reportedly triggered by a credible threat from Iran, coming a day after renewed US airstrikes on the country. The White House defended the security measures, stating all available means are used to counter threats against the president.

When Data Becomes Feared

Despite the Sensus Ekonomi 2026 reaching 86% completion, deep-seated public suspicion towards data collection persists across all social classes in Indonesia. Incidents ranging from lower-income fears of tax implications to wealthy citizens using buckets to avoid physical contact with enumerators highlight a critical trust deficit. This wariness, amplified by rising data breach crimes and the new Personal Data Protection Law, creates a paradox where the state's need for accurate policy data clashes with citizens' growing demand for privacy and security.

InJourney declares Mandalika ready to host MotoGP 2026

State-owned tourism holding company InJourney has confirmed the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit is prepared for the 2026 MotoGP, scheduled for 9–11 October. The firm is coordinating with Garuda Indonesia to increase flights and working with local authorities to enhance services. The 2025 edition generated an economic impact of nearly IDR 5 trillion and created 3,000 jobs, with local marshals now being hired for international events.

Former Mossad Chief: Israel Repeatedly Circled Iran's Fordow Nuclear Facility

Former Mossad chief Yossi Cohen has revealed that Israel repeatedly monitored Iran's Fordow nuclear facility, describing the June 2025 US airstrike on the site as the realisation of his dreams. Despite claims by President Trump that the facility was completely destroyed, recent intelligence assessments suggest the strike failed to eliminate Iran's stockpile of highly enriched uranium. The underground tunnels remain blocked by debris, but Iran's core nuclear capability is not considered fully neutralised.

TNI Responds After Commander Criticised for Claiming Responsibility for Indonesia's Security

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has clarified that the Commander's statement about being responsible for public security was made in response to a request from the National Police. A civil society coalition had condemned the remarks, warning they blurred the constitutional separation of defence and internal security functions and risked legitimising military presence in civilian life. The coalition emphasised that deploying the military in response to potential demonstrations is a misguided approach that could intimidate citizens exercising their constitutional rights.

Garut Regency on High Alert for Mount Guntur Forest Fires After 13 Hectares Scorched

The Garut Regency administration is intensifying vigilance against forest and land fires on Mount Guntur following five separate incidents that burned 13 hectares during the dry season. Authorities are coordinating with the military, police, and forestry agencies to enhance monitoring and response, while also addressing water shortages for affected communities. The regency has declared a state of emergency for drought and fires from July to September 2026.

Pertalite, biodiesel supply remains secure despite global shocks: Govt

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has assured that Indonesia's fuel and biodiesel supplies remain stable despite global geopolitical tensions. The country's strategic purchasing structure and supply routes, which bypass the Strait of Hormuz, have insulated it from severe price volatility. This energy security has supported robust economic growth of 5.45 percent and kept inflation manageable at 2.88 percent.

North Sumatra Deputy Governor: Advancing Education Quality in West Nias Requires Collaboration

North Sumatra Deputy Governor Surya has called for collective action to improve education in the Nias Islands, highlighting that the region still faces significant limitations. He stressed that teachers must act as both educators and parental figures, and that their dedication should not be measured solely by material compensation. West Nias Regent Eliyunus Waruwu noted that a shortage of school supervisors and low Human Development Index scores remain major challenges for the area.

TUGU Insurance Revenue Grows 16.3%

PT Asuransi Tugu Pratama Indonesia (TUGU) reported a 76.9% surge in net profit for the first half of 2026, driven by strong underwriting performance. The improvement offset a decline in investment income, signalling a shift towards a more resilient core business model. Contributions from its vehicle rental subsidiary also grew, supporting business diversification.

Minister Bahlil, Nurturing Intellectual Tradition and Activism at 50

Minister Bahlil Lahadalia launched 10 books to mark his 50th birthday, drawing both public praise and online criticism. The article traces his journey from a challenging childhood in Papua through his formative years in the Islamic Students' Association (HMI), which shaped his intellectual and activist character. It highlights a pivotal early test as Investment Minister when he successfully halted coal exports on President Jokowi's orders despite lacking legal authority, demonstrating his loyalty and problem-solving skills.

Danantara: Yogyakarta Waste-to-Energy Plant to Power 15,000 Homes

The Danantara investment authority has announced that the planned Waste-to-Energy (PSEL) plant in the Special Region of Yogyakarta will generate enough electricity to supply 15,000 households. The facility, requiring a daily supply of 1,000 tonnes of waste from surrounding regencies, is projected to produce 18 to 20 megawatts of power. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2027, with the electricity to be purchased by state utility PLN under a 30-year agreement.

Siti Fauziah Says Bakohumas Synergy Strengthens Annual MPR Session Publications

Plt. Secretary General of the MPR RI, Siti Fauziah, has called for stronger synergy among government public relations bodies to ensure accurate public information regarding the 2026 MPR Annual Session. Speaking at a thematic forum, she noted that preparations for the session have reached 85 percent, with adjustments made to the schedule and ceremonial proceedings.

Cooperatives Minister: LPDB Ready to Support Cooperatives in Building CPO Mills

Minister of Cooperatives Ferry Juliantono has announced that the Revolving Fund Management Agency (LPDB) is prepared to finance cooperatives developing palm oil processing ventures, including crude palm oil (CPO) mills. The initiative aims to shift cooperatives beyond plantation management into downstream processing, capitalising on the 43% share of national palm oil plantations held by smallholders. This move is intended to strengthen the position of farmers in the supply chain and increase the added value retained within local communities.

Do Not Stare Directly at a Solar Eclipse: The Risks to Your Eyes

Viewing a solar eclipse without proper eye protection can cause serious and permanent retinal damage, a condition known as solar retinopathy. A case study following the 2017 eclipse detailed how a young woman suffered central vision loss and distortion after briefly looking at the sun without adequate protection. Experts warn that outside the brief moment of totality during a total eclipse, the sun's rays remain dangerously bright and require specialised solar filters for safe viewing.

Prof Gayus: PTUN to Test Diploma Validity According to Administrative Law Stages

Legal expert Prof Gayus Lumbuun argues that the State Administrative Court (PTUN) is the proper forum to determine the validity of President Jokowi's diploma, as it can examine whether the administrative process complied with the law. The PTUN's decision, which previously ordered UGM to disclose academic documents, is considered binding and could influence ongoing criminal defamation cases against Roy Suryo and Dr Tifa.

One Indonesian Crew Member Killed in Attack in Bab al-Mandeb Strait

An attack on a commercial vessel in the Bab al-Mandeb Strait has resulted in the death of an Indonesian crew member and three Pakistani nationals. The internationally recognised Yemeni government has condemned the Houthi missile strike as a terrorist act, warning it threatens maritime safety and vital food supply chains for millions of Yemenis.

Neng Eem Stresses Three PR Principles to Guide MPR Annual Session

PKB faction chair Neng Eem Marhamah Zulfa Hiz has outlined three core principles—informative, collaborative, and credible—for government public relations in the lead-up to the 2026 MPR Annual Session. Speaking at a thematic forum, she stressed the need for verified information, inter-agency synergy, and two-way communication to build public trust. The initiative aims to ensure that communications surrounding the session are clear, accurate, and resonate with the public.

National Police Chief Awards Winners of Police Creations for the Community

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo presented awards at the 'Police Creations for the Community' event, celebrating the force's 80th anniversary. The ceremony recognised winners across 30 diverse categories, ranging from public communication and anti-drug initiatives to food security and disability arts. The initiative aims to foster public innovation and strengthen collaboration between the police and the community.

Hanura: Quality legislative candidates should not lose due to lack of capital

The Hanura Party has called for electoral system reforms to prevent high-quality legislative candidates from being sidelined by those with greater financial resources. A senior party official likened the current system to a 'free market' where capital can outweigh competence and party dedication. Hanura advocates for a combined open and closed-list proportional system to allow parties to prioritise qualified cadres while still enabling candidates to win seats based on popular vote.

Police gather evidence in alleged blasphemy case at music festival

North Jakarta police are collecting evidence, including viral video footage, to investigate an alleged act of blasphemy at 'The Sounds Project' music festival in Ancol. The incident involved a challenge at an alcohol booth where attendees were asked to memorise a Quranic verse in exchange for a free drink. The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has filed an official report, and the case remains under preliminary investigation.

Health Ministry's Plain Packaging Plan Could Hamper Investment and Economic Growth

Industry groups warn that the Indonesian Health Ministry's plan to standardise tobacco packaging could trigger job losses and stifle investment. Advertising and creative industry associations argue the regulation would have a negative multiplier effect, particularly on the advertising and film sectors. The government maintains the policy is necessary to protect public health, especially children, from the dangers of tobacco.

BRI-MI Launches Sharia Gold ETF, Integrating Capital Market with National Bullion Ecosystem

PT BRI Manajemen Investasi (BRI-MI) has launched the BRI-MI Gold ETF Syariah, Indonesia's first gold exchange-traded fund, marking a significant step in connecting the capital market with the national bullion ecosystem. The ETF, which uses Electronic Gold Receipts backed by physical gold, offers investors transparent exposure to gold without the need for physical storage. The launch is part of the 49th anniversary of the Indonesian Capital Market and involves collaboration between the Financial Services Authority (OJK), the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI), and other key financial industry players.

Sleman BPBD Declares Drought Emergency Alert to Anticipate El Niño

The Sleman Regency Disaster Mitigation Agency has declared a Drought Emergency Alert status from 1 July to 31 August, anticipating a prolonged dry season in 2026 due to the El Niño anomaly. The peak of the dry season is expected to shift to September, with the rainy season delayed until late October or early December. The local government has allocated funds for clean water distribution and is coordinating forest and land fire prevention efforts.

Depok's Bulak Barat Residents Relieved as Years-Long Flooding Finally Recedes

Residents of Bulak Barat in Cipayung, Depok, have expressed relief after chronic flooding that plagued their area for years has subsided following river normalisation works. The receding waters have raised hopes for the revival of local trade, which had been severely disrupted. The Depok city government is continuing efforts, including plans to build a new bridge to restore full access between Cipayung and Pasir Putih.

Agrinas prepares cooperative-based palm oil plasma pilot project in North Sumatra

State-owned PT Agrinas Palma Nusantara is developing a pilot project in North Sumatra to model a partnership between the company and palm oil farmers organised in cooperatives. The initiative, supported by the Cooperatives Minister, aims to create a replicable framework for plasma plantation development and vendor partnerships. The government seeks to boost community involvement and cooperative-led downstream processing in the palm oil sector.

Bima Police Officer Caught in Anti-Drug Operation, Network Unrelated to Didik Cs

An officer from the Bima Police, identified as A, has been arrested in an anti-drug operation in West Nusa Tenggara, but authorities confirm his network is separate from that of former Bima City Police Chief Didik Putra Kuncoro. The arrest followed the capture of a fisherman found with 1.44 grams of methamphetamine. The operation, running from late July to early August, resulted in 178 arrests, including three police officers, and the seizure of significant quantities of drugs and cash.

National Police Chief Gives Children Space to Express Themselves, from Storytelling to Aspirations

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo hosted three children, providing them a platform to showcase their storytelling talents and share their future ambitions. The interaction highlighted the importance of nurturing children's confidence and creativity from an early age. The event underscored the Indonesian National Police's commitment to supporting youth development beyond just protection.

Home Affairs Minister Reveals Babies Born Outside Health Facilities Will Receive Digital Birth Certificates

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has announced that digital birth certificates will be issued for babies born outside health facilities, with village heads being instructed to report such births. The initiative, launched alongside the integration of the SatuSehat and SIAK systems, aims to streamline civil registration and ensure universal access to vital documents. A forthcoming circular will also mandate village-level reporting of deaths to improve population data accuracy.

BPDP Commitment to Elevate Indonesian Palm Oil SMEs

The Indonesian Oil Palm Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the national palm oil industry, receiving two awards at the Sawit Indonesia Expo & Conference 2026. The awards recognise BPDP's support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Riau and its hospitality. BPDP aims to strengthen collaboration with local businesses to boost competitiveness and contribute to the government's target of 8 per cent economic growth.

West Jakarta Police detain online taxi driver suspected of sexual assault

West Jakarta Metro Police have detained a 54-year-old online taxi driver accused of sexually assaulting a female passenger. The suspect allegedly coerced the victim into moving to the front seat before harassing her during the journey. He faces up to nine years in prison under the new Criminal Code's article on indecent acts.

Pertamina to Supply 750 Kilolitres of Avtur for Super Garuda Shield 2026

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has prepared 750 kilolitres of aviation fuel to support the multinational Super Garuda Shield 2026 military exercise in Lampung. The state-owned energy company will provide operational support, including refuelling vehicles and personnel, from 12 August to 15 September 2026. The commitment underscores Pertamina's role in ensuring energy security for strategic national and international events.

Ranu Pani Lake only water source for Mt. Bromo wildfire: BNPB

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has confirmed that Ranu Pani Lake is the sole water source for helicopters battling wildfires on Mount Bromo, as ground crews cannot access the steep slopes. The agency is relying heavily on aerial water bombing and plans to conduct weather modification operations to induce rainfall between 14-16 August. The fires have been burning for ten days within the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, with authorities optimistic the combined strategy will soon bring the situation under control.

Corruption Fight Faces Complex Challenges, Calls Mount for Transparent Law Enforcement

Experts and former officials warn that Indonesia's anti-corruption efforts are becoming increasingly complex, with calls for law enforcement to be more transparent, accountable, and free from conflicts of interest. During a book review event in Jakarta, speakers highlighted issues such as the selective use of authority, the need for stronger ethical codes, and the importance of tracing illicit assets. The discussion also touched on the risk of legal instruments being misused for personal agendas, underscoring the need for independent oversight to maintain public trust.

Tangerang City's DPMPTSP Enters Top 6 in National PTSP Assessment, Undergoes Field Verification

The Tangerang City Investment and One-Stop Integrated Service Office (DPMPTSP) has been shortlisted among the top six regions nationally for its service performance. A team from the Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming/BKPM conducted a field verification at the city's Public Service Mall to assess infrastructure, human resources, and operational standards. The final top three winners will be announced next month, with Tangerang building on its previous national best title in 2022.

State-Owned Enterprises Post Soaring Profits, One Jumps 804% in Six Months

A number of Indonesian state-owned enterprises (SOEs) have reported significant profit growth in the first half of 2026, with tin miner PT Timah leading the surge with an 804.7 percent increase. The results signal a recovery across key sectors and serve as an early test for the consolidation and transformation efforts under the Danantara investment management body. Analysts note that while the performance of blue-chip SOEs remains solid, further streamlining is needed to sustain efficiency and fundamental improvements.

Indonesia, US discuss ways to strengthen defense partnership

Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin met with US Under Secretary of War for Policy Elbridge Colby in Jakarta to discuss strengthening bilateral defence cooperation. The talks served as a strategic dialogue on regional and global security dynamics, though specific details were not disclosed. Both sides expressed commitment to developing a constructive and equal partnership, building on existing joint military exercises like Super Garuda Shield and RIMPAC.

Laid-Off Workers Can Withdraw BPJS Ketenagakerjaan Funds, Here's How to Claim JHT in August 2026

Workers who have been laid off can access their Jaminan Hari Tua (JHT) savings from BPJS Ketenagakerjaan. The programme allows participants to claim their funds online via the Lapakasik portal or by visiting a branch office. Specific documents, including proof of termination, are required to process the claim.

Garuda and InJourney Seek to Draw Foreign Tourists to More Destinations

State-owned airline Garuda Indonesia and tourism holding company InJourney have launched a programme offering 170,845 free domestic flight seats to international visitors. The initiative aims to encourage tourists to explore beyond Bali and Jakarta, thereby increasing their length of stay and spending. The programme is expected to boost local economies by distributing tourism benefits more widely across the archipelago.

Deputy Minister Says Placement of Village Cooperative Managers Still Under Preparation

The placement of managers for the newly formed Village/Sub-District Cooperatives (KDKMP) has yet to commence as the government finalises technical details and awaits assignments from state-owned enterprises. The government is also preparing a presidential regulation to govern the cooperatives' operations, including their role in distributing subsidised goods. Over 29,000 prospective managers have undergone training, with deployment scheduled for August 2026.

Indonesia joins 6th University Presidents for Peace Conference

Indonesia's Hasanuddin University (Unhas) participated in the 6th University Presidents for Peace Conference in Hiroshima, joining 53 delegates from 17 universities across 11 countries. The conference saw the unanimous adoption of a declaration committing higher education institutions to foster peace and sustainability through education, research, and international collaboration. Unhas highlighted its diverse community as a relevant model for global dialogue, while the event's timing alongside the 81st anniversary of the Hiroshima bombing underscored the role of universities in preserving historical memory and nurturing a generation capable of resolving differences through dialogue.

Agriculture Ministry Surveys Potential Drought on Farmland in Lamongan

The Indonesian Ministry of Agriculture and Lamongan Regency are jointly surveying agricultural land at risk of drought. Officials are preparing mitigation measures, including strengthening pump and pipeline irrigation networks, to secure water supply for rice paddies during the dry season. The initiative aims to maintain productivity in Lamongan, a key national food production centre.

Illegal Cilincing Dumpsite Under Scrutiny, RDF-Based Waste Management in Focus

Authorities in North Jakarta have inspected an illegal waste disposal site in Cilincing, engaging with local waste pickers to explore more effective and economically viable management solutions. The site already utilises a refuse-derived fuel (RDF) machine to reduce waste volume. Separately, the Jakarta provincial government has fined a waste haulage company IDR 10 million for illegal dumping in the same area.

Mass Grave Discovered in Sudan's Blue Nile Region After Military Recaptures Area

A mass grave containing at least 25 bodies, including women, children, and hospital workers, has been discovered in Kurmuk, Sudan, following the area's recapture by government forces. Local officials have blamed the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) for the executions. The discovery adds to mounting evidence of atrocities committed during the ongoing civil war, which has triggered a massive humanitarian crisis.

Ministry, OJK collaborate to accelerate financing access for MSMEs

Indonesia's MSME Ministry and the Financial Services Authority (OJK) have signed a memorandum of understanding to expedite financing access for the nation's 56.68 million micro, small, and medium enterprises. The collaboration aims to address structural challenges and increase the MSME loan ratio to 25 per cent of total bank lending by 2029, up from the current 16.7 per cent. The government is also coupling this financial push with market protection measures, including import restrictions, to ensure businesses can sell their goods after receiving funds.

MPR's Bakohumas Forum Opens, Neng Eem Urges Government Communication Synergy

Neng Eem Marhamah Zulfa Hiz, Chair of the PKB faction in the MPR, has called for stronger synergy among government public relations bodies to ensure state information reaches the public clearly. Speaking at the Bakohumas Thematic Forum, she stressed that the MPR Annual Session must be more than a ceremonial event, serving as a platform for state institutions to present performance reports and affirm national direction. She urged government PR officials to act as translators of constitutional language into accessible, grounded messages for the people.

Indonesian Stocks Reverse Gains as Consumer Confidence Hits 15-Month Low

Indonesian stocks surrendered early gains on Tuesday as investors weighed a third consecutive monthly decline in consumer confidence, which fell to its lowest level since April 2025. The Jakarta Composite Index dropped 0.63% despite a stronger rupiah following the nomination of a sole candidate for Bank Indonesia governor. Broader caution also prevailed ahead of key US inflation data, though domestic motorcycle sales provided a bright spot with the strongest monthly growth since October 2014.

Fearing Iranian Assassination, Trump Smuggled Out of Turkey in Catering Truck After NATO Summit

US President Donald Trump was secretly moved from his official aircraft to a smaller military plane using a catering truck in Ankara last month, amid suspected Iranian assassination threats. The covert operation occurred after a NATO summit, with the White House publicly maintaining he was aboard Air Force One. The manoeuvre followed renewed US strikes on Iran after failed negotiations.

Indonesia's economic fundamentals strong despite global dynamics: Airlangga

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has affirmed that Indonesia's economic fundamentals remain robust, underpinned by fiscal discipline and sustained investment-grade sovereign ratings. He highlighted the country's low budget deficit and strong corporate earnings in key sectors as evidence of stability. Airlangga urged market participants not to worry excessively, noting Indonesia is viewed as a stable economy rather than a frontier market.

KPK Prosecutor Says Yaqut Cholil Qoumas Prepared US$1 Million to Influence Hajj Special Committee

Prosecutors from the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) have alleged that former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas prepared US$1 million to influence the House of Representatives' Hajj inquiry committee. The funds were reportedly readied through his special staff members. The case involves alleged corruption in the management of the 2023-2024 hajj quota, causing state losses of Rp622.09 billion.

PT Pesonna Optima Jasa Provides 250 Vehicles for Driver Partnership Programme

PT Pesonna Optima Jasa, a subsidiary of Pegadaian Group, is supplying 250 vehicles to PT Trans Optima Perkasa to create job opportunities through a driver partnership scheme. The fleet includes 200 internal combustion engine cars and 50 electric vehicles, with the programme officially starting on 1 July 2026. High public interest has been noted, with 400 applicants for the initial 250 units.

Lawyers for Three TTU Legislators Protest Ethics Council's Suspension Ruling

Legal counsel for three suspended members of the Timor Tengah Utara (TTU) Regional House of Representatives has formally objected to the Ethics Council's decision, arguing it is procedurally and substantively flawed. The lawyers contend the suspension is premature as their clients are still witnesses, not defendants, in an ongoing police investigation into the alleged intimidation of a doctor. The DPRD chairman confirmed receipt of the objection and stated the Ethics Council would respond, while noting its rulings are final and binding.

US Court Dismisses Bribery Case Against Indian Billionaire Adani; Judge Criticises DOJ

A US federal judge has dismissed the bribery case against Indian billionaire Gautam Adani, while criticising the Department of Justice's handling of the dismissal as 'troubling'. The judge noted the decision was made in an 'unusual' manner, largely in cooperation with Adani's defence lawyer, who also represents President Donald Trump. Adani and his co-defendants had been accused of paying over US$250 million in bribes to Indian officials to secure solar energy contracts.

Education Ministry Realises 'School as Second Home' Vision Through SNT 09 Gowa

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has launched the Integrated National School (SNT) 09 in Gowa Regency, South Sulawesi, as a model for quality education and talent development. The school is designed with superior facilities and teaching staff to accelerate equitable education standards in the region. It also serves as a sister school to surrounding institutions, promoting a student-centred approach that emphasises safety, comfort, and individual potential.

Creative Industry Calls for Removal of Standardised Tobacco Product Colours and Designs

Indonesia's creative industry is pushing back against a Ministry of Health plan to enforce plain packaging for tobacco products, warning it could devastate the design, advertising, and broadcasting sectors. Stakeholders argue the regulation, which mandates a uniform drab brown colour and restricts visual elements, threatens intellectual property rights and the livelihoods of over 725,000 workers. The Creative Economy Minister has called for a comprehensive study to balance health objectives with the economic sustainability of the affected industries.

Conceptual Debates Hinder Deliberation of Asset Forfeiture Bill

A senior lawmaker has urged colleagues to move beyond conceptual debates and focus on technical formulations to expedite the deliberation of the Asset Forfeiture Bill. The discussions remain mired in disagreements over fundamental approaches, such as whether forfeiture should be conviction-based or non-conviction-based, and the scope of predicate crimes. The bill, a priority in the 2026 National Legislation Programme, aims to optimise the recovery of state financial losses.

Parental Guidance Key to Healthier Gadget Use Among Teenagers

A community programme in Malang, East Java, is educating parents on the importance of supervising their teenagers' digital habits. The initiative, led by university students, addresses concerns over screen time, social media, and its impact on adolescent concentration and sleep. Organisers hope the collaboration between academics and parents will foster more responsible technology use among young people.

Iran Reshuffles Security Structure, IRGC Veterans Rise to Key Posts

Iran has overhauled its security and military leadership, appointing veteran Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) figures to strategic roles amid escalating tensions with the United States and Israel. The reshuffle, which includes the appointment of former IRGC chief Mohsen Rezaee as secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, signals a hardening stance in Tehran. Analysts suggest the move aims to consolidate hardline control and integrate military, diplomatic, and economic policies.

Government Accelerates Forest Fire Suppression in Bromo

Coordinating Minister Pratikno reports significant progress in tackling forest and land fires in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, with hotspots reduced from 34 to just two. The government is preparing cloud seeding operations to prevent further outbreaks, following a direct order from President Prabowo Subianto. Authorities are also urging regional leaders nationwide to heighten vigilance against concurrent hydrometeorological disasters.

Counterfeit Products Harm Consumers and Industry, Law Enforcement is Key

A recent court ruling against the sale of counterfeit Timken bearings highlights the legal and economic damage caused by fake goods in Indonesia. The decision underscores the need for robust law enforcement, consumer vigilance, and collaboration between brand owners and authorities to protect market integrity.

Bangli's 2027 Regional Budget Ceiling Agreed at Rp 1.3 Trillion

The Bangli Regency Legislative Council (DPRD) has agreed on a provisional budget ceiling of Rp 1.3 trillion for the 2027 fiscal year. The figure, a Rp 100 billion increase from 2026, was set during discussions on the General Budget Policy and Temporary Budget Priorities and Ceiling. The increase is partly attributed to the planned hiring of government employees with work agreements and anticipated higher central government transfers.

Lawmaker urges incentives for housewives to strengthen human development

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called on the government to provide incentives and protection for housewives performing caregiving roles, arguing it is a long-term investment in human development. Viktor Bungtilu Laiskodat emphasised that mothers are the primary architects of a child's character, instilling values such as courage, responsibility, and nationalism from an early age. He stressed that this often-overlooked work requires state support to ensure the nation's future generations are raised with strong moral foundations.

Energy Minister guarantees non-tax revenue from minerals, coal, and oil and gas will exceed target

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has guaranteed that Non-Tax State Revenue (PNBP) from the minerals, coal, and oil and gas sectors will surpass 100 per cent of the target by year-end. As of July, PNBP from the ministry reached Rp96.26 trillion, or 70.69 per cent of the 2026 target. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa noted that overall tax revenue growth of 23 per cent as of late July remains relatively secure.

Civil Coalition Rebukes Military Chief's Statement: Public Security Is Not the TNI's Mandate

A civil society coalition has strongly criticised the Indonesian Military (TNI) Commander for claiming responsibility for public security nationwide. The coalition argues that General Agus Subiyanto's statement blurs the constitutional separation between defence and domestic security, risking a return to the military's excessive role in civilian life. They emphasised that maintaining public order is the sole mandate of the National Police, and any military assistance must be based on a legitimate request with clear public accountability.

Muslim Lawyers Report Qur'an Memorisation Challenge for Alcohol to Bareskrim

The Indonesian Muslim Lawyers Association (ALMI) has reported a Qur'an memorisation challenge that offered alcohol as a prize at a music festival to the National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim). The group alleges the act constitutes religious blasphemy, while the event organiser and the alcohol brand have both condemned the incident and apologised. Police are investigating and have summoned the event organiser and master of ceremonies for questioning.

OJK and Ministry of MSMEs Form Task Force to Expand MSME Financing

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) have agreed to establish a joint task force aimed at broadening funding and financing access for MSMEs. The initiative, announced at the UMKM Finance Summit 2026, will integrate MSME development programmes with the financial services sector. Officials stressed that expanding financing must be accompanied by securing market access and adapting the financial system to better suit MSME characteristics.

Driving Indonesian Cinema's Acceleration into the Global Market via Web3

Indonesian blockchain and AI entertainment firm SHOW Token presented a borderless distribution model at the BRICS Creative Economy WAVES Bazaar 2026 in Mumbai. The company aims to overcome domestic infrastructure gaps and complex international distribution chains by integrating Web3 technology, leveraging Indonesia's 20.2 million crypto investors. The initiative seeks to connect Indonesian filmmakers directly with global audiences and has already facilitated co-production discussions with India's Panorama Studios.

3 kg CNG to Be Subsidised, but Costs 40% Less Than LPG

The Indonesian government is preparing to subsidise 3 kg Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) canisters, with officials claiming the scheme will be 30-40% more cost-efficient than the current LPG subsidy. The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources plans to match the capacity of one CNG canister to one 3 kg LPG canister to ease consumer transition. Final safety testing, including an extreme heat endurance test, is underway before public trials begin.

OJK Grants Sharia General Insurance Licence to PT Sompo Insurance Sharia

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has officially issued a Sharia general insurance business licence to PT Sompo Insurance Sharia, effective from 7 August 2026. The newly licensed entity, based in South Jakarta, is mandated to adhere to sound business practices and all prevailing laws and regulations. This move marks an expansion of Sharia-compliant financial services within the Indonesian insurance market.

Chevrolet to Halt New Car Sales in China, Shifts Focus to Exports

General Motors has confirmed that Chevrolet will cease retail sales of new cars in China after nearly 21 years, pivoting its strategy towards manufacturing vehicles for export markets. The company will continue to produce Chevrolet vehicles in China through its joint venture with SAIC Motor, targeting regions such as the Middle East, Africa, and South America. GM assured existing Chinese customers that after-sales service, parts supply, and dealer networks will remain operational.

State-Owned Enterprises Post Positive First Half 2026 Performance, Danantara Drives Transformation and Efficiency

Indonesia's state-owned enterprises (SOEs) recorded significant profit growth in the first half of 2026, with several companies swinging from losses to gains. The positive results, particularly among blue-chip firms in banking, mining, and telecommunications, come amid ongoing consolidation and transformation efforts under the Danantara investment authority. Analysts expect further performance improvements as the streamlining process accelerates.

BGN Head Meets Attorney General to Discuss Oversight of Free Nutritious Meal Programme Governance

The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has met with the Attorney General to request legal assistance and field supervision for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The collaboration will involve legal audits and oversight by prosecutors' offices to improve governance. The BGN leadership also affirmed its support for any criminal investigations into past misconduct by individuals within the agency.

KKP Handles 1,286 Turtle Eggs in Sambas, Only 96 Deemed Viable for Hatching

The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has processed 1,286 turtle eggs seized from two locations in West Kalimantan, but only 96 were found to be fertile and suitable for incubation. The viable eggs, identified as green turtle eggs, were discovered by an army border patrol, while the remaining 1,190 eggs from a separate seizure showed no signs of fertility. Authorities emphasised the importance of rapid inter-agency coordination and strict procedures to support marine ecosystem conservation.

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Allegedly Set Aside USD 1 Million to Bribe House Hajj Inquiry Committee

Prosecutors have alleged that former Indonesian Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas prepared USD 1 million to influence the House of Representatives' special inquiry committee investigating the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage. The funds were reportedly channelled through his special aides. Yaqut faces charges of corruption related to the distribution of additional Hajj quotas, which allegedly caused state losses of approximately Rp622.09 billion.

UNESCO Evaluator Suggests Merangin Geopark's Ancient Potential Be Turned into Picture Stories for Children

A UNESCO evaluator has recommended that the ancient geological wealth of the Merangin Geopark in Jambi be transformed into educational picture books for children. During a revalidation visit, Yongmun Jeon expressed amazement at the site's fossils but noted a lack of accessible information for young people and general tourists. His colleague Nicolas Klee added that the geopark should serve as a science laboratory, not just a scenic destination.

Which Chinese Car Brands Are Just Trading and Which Are Seriously Investing?

The influx of Chinese automotive brands into Indonesia has reached 16, but their commitment to local manufacturing varies significantly. While some like Wuling and BYD have built their own factories, others rely on partner facilities for assembly, impacting the depth of technology transfer and local supply chain development. The government is pushing for greater independent investment to maximise domestic value addition from the growing electric vehicle sector.

Agriculture Minister accelerates pump and shallow well aid for farmers in Gresik

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman is fast-tracking drought relief in Gresik, East Java, by deploying water pumps and constructing shallow wells to protect over 200 hectares of affected farmland. The government is also providing irrigation infrastructure and tractors, while pledging to simplify regulations so farm labourers can more easily access agricultural machinery. The initiative aims to maintain productivity and support national food self-sufficiency despite the dry season.

Garuda Indonesia and InJourney Offer 170,845 Free Domestic Flight Tickets, Check the Requirements

Garuda Indonesia, in partnership with InJourney, is offering 170,845 complimentary domestic flight tickets to foreign tourists as part of the 'Discover More Indonesia' campaign. The programme, which runs from 1 August to 30 November 2026, aims to encourage international visitors to explore destinations beyond Bali and Jakarta. Travellers can redeem the free add-on flights by using the code 'INDO' when booking their international round-trip tickets with the airline.

Firefighters Battle to Extinguish Land Fires in Kertapati, Palembang

Firefighters from Manggala Agni are working to extinguish land fires in the Kertapati district of Palembang, South Sumatra. Data from the Coordinating Ministry for Political and Security Affairs reveals that forest and land fires have burned 107,000 hectares across Indonesia so far this year, with West Kalimantan and Riau being the worst-affected provinces.

Manggala Agni Continues to Battle Forest and Land Fires in Rokan Hilir and Bengkalis

Firefighting teams are working to extinguish forest and land fires spanning 72 hectares across Rokan Hilir and Bengkalis Regencies in Riau. The fires are burning on peatland within Limited Production Forest areas, with strong winds and dry fuel complicating efforts. Authorities are being assisted by the military, police, and local communities to bring the situation under control.

Minister Urges Agrinas to Emulate Malaysia's Felda in Building Palm Oil Cooperatives

Indonesia's Minister of Cooperatives has called on state-owned PT Agrinas Palma Nusantara to model its palm oil ecosystem on Malaysia's Felda, aiming to consolidate smallholder plantations through cooperatives. The initiative seeks to strengthen farmers' positions in the supply chain and boost exports, given that smallholders manage 43 per cent of Indonesia's palm oil land. Agrinas, tasked with managing over 4 million hectares of reclaimed forest land, is required to allocate at least 20 per cent as community plasma, making cooperatives essential partners.

West Lombok DPRD Criticises Government's Approach to Drought Crisis

The West Lombok Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) has criticised the local government's reliance on water tankers as a temporary fix for the ongoing drought, deeming it ineffective. A senior council member argued that the state has failed to guarantee a basic necessity if citizens are forced to buy water. He urged the administration to allocate funds in the revised 2026 budget for a long-term solution involving a piped network from water sources to affected villages.

Bamsoet Encourages Universities to Align Education with Job Market Needs

Indonesian legislator Bambang Soesatyo (Bamsoet) has announced that Universitas Perwira Purbalingga (UNPERBA) will propose three new study programmes in 2026 to align education with industry demands. The proposed programmes are Business Law, Computer Engineering, and Industrial Engineering, aimed at addressing the skills gap in the local economy. Bamsoet highlighted the national issue of graduate unemployment, noting that over one million university graduates were jobless in 2025, and stressed the importance of improving educational relevance to harness Indonesia's demographic bonus.

KPK Reveals Corruption Construction in Hajj Quota, State Losses Reach Rp622 Billion

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detailed the alleged corruption scheme involving the allocation of additional Hajj quotas for the 2023–2024 fiscal year. The disclosure was made following the first hearing of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas at the Central Jakarta District Court. The Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) has confirmed state financial losses in the case amounting to Rp622 billion.

Ambarawa Murder: Suspects Paid Ride-Hailing Driver with Victim's Phone, Leading to Arrest

Police investigating the robbery and murder of a mobile phone shop owner in Ambarawa, Central Java, have revealed that the suspects' carelessness led to their swift capture. After allegedly killing the victim and stealing his car, the two men used a phone taken from the crime scene to pay for an online motorcycle taxi ride back to Ambarawa. Tracing the digital transaction allowed officers to identify and arrest the suspects within hours of the crime.

South Korea Prepares Rp 62 Trillion Budget to Tackle Global Crisis

The South Korean government is allocating a 5 trillion won (approximately Rp 62 trillion) investment fund to bolster its national semiconductor sector. The funding aims to support material, component, and equipment developers, as well as fabless chip design firms, amid a global chip shortage. This aggressive move is part of a broader mega-project to accelerate the construction of new chip manufacturing hubs across the country.

West Java PUSDAI Inaugurates Sodik Mudjahid Pavilion, Immortalising a Legacy of Service

The West Java Islamic Propagation Centre (PUSDAI) has inaugurated the Sodik Mudjahid Pavilion to honour the BAZNAS chairman's contributions to the institution. The ceremony also dedicated the Miftah Pavilion, recognising the foundational role of scholar Miftah Faridl. Leaders emphasised the importance of blending senior wisdom with youthful professionalism to advance the organisation's community impact.

Indonesian halal F&B products eye Middle East market

Indonesia is targeting the Middle East as a key export market for its halal food and beverage products, citing strong regional demand. The Ministry of Trade is facilitating business expansion through its network of trade representatives in 33 countries and sees the Indonesian diaspora as a potential gateway for authentic flavours. This push aligns with broader efforts to increase international market penetration for Indonesian F&B businesses.

Agriculture Ministry optimises pump house to irrigate 600 hectares of rice fields in Lamongan

The Indonesian Ministry of Agriculture is optimising a pump house in Sugio, Lamongan Regency, to support irrigation for approximately 600 hectares of rice fields during the dry season. While the facility has the potential to serve this area, it still requires official electricity connections and network support to operate at full capacity. The initiative is part of a broader government strategy to maintain water availability and support national food self-sufficiency targets.

Prosecutors: Yaqut Prepared USD 1 Million to Influence Hajj Special Committee

Prosecutors from the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) have alleged that former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas prepared USD 1 million to influence the outcome of the House of Representatives' Hajj Inquiry Special Committee in 2024. The funds were reportedly arranged through his special aides. Yaqut is facing charges of corruption related to the allocation of hajj quotas, which allegedly caused state losses of approximately Rp622.09 billion.

Zero ODOL to Begin in 2027, Traffic Police Chief Reminds Distribution Must Remain Smooth

The National Police Traffic Corps (Korlantas Polri) has stressed that the full enforcement of the zero over-dimension over-loading (ODOL) policy starting in 2027 must not disrupt the supply of goods or price stability. Chief Irjen Pol. Wibowo emphasised a measured approach combining preventive measures and driver engagement alongside law enforcement. The policy's rollout will coincide with major national events, including Ramadan and Idul Fitri.

OJK says MSME development to take more systemic approach

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) is adopting a more systemic approach to developing micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), aiming to accelerate credit growth and strengthen the sector's contribution to the economy. The regulator highlighted the issuance of new laws and regulations, including the P2SK Law and a specific OJK regulation on MSME financing access, as key instruments. Despite current modest growth, officials expect credit expansion to improve in the coming months, supported by a new dedicated directorate and inter-agency collaboration.

KPK Involves BPKP in Rudy Tanoe Examination to Calculate State Losses

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has examined PT Dosni Roha Logistik's President Commissioner, Bambang Rudijanto Tanoesoedibjo, regarding alleged corruption in the 2020 social assistance rice distribution. The investigation, conducted jointly with the Financial and Development Supervisory Agency (BPKP), focused on calculating state financial losses and probing the distribution mechanism where aid was only delivered to sub-district offices rather than directly to recipients. Rudy Tanoe, who has been named a suspect, declined to comment after the four-hour questioning session.

Revisiting the Traces of Nusantara Science is Key to Building a Scientific Culture and National Confidence

Indonesia's long history of contributing to global scientific knowledge, from maritime technology to botany, remains under-documented. Officials and academics argue that critically re-examining and integrating this local knowledge with modern science is essential for fostering a robust scientific culture and national self-confidence. A recent survey indicates high public trust in science but very low participation in scientific activities, highlighting a gap that needs to be addressed through broader dissemination.

Jessica Mila Visits Padar Island During Sailing Closure, BTNK Explains

The Komodo National Park Office (BTNK) has clarified why tourist services, including a visit by celebrity Jessica Mila, continued on Padar Island despite a sailing ban imposed due to bad weather. BTNK stated its rangers remain on duty to serve visitors already within the park or arriving from areas outside the closure zone. The harbour master's office confirmed the vessel carrying the celebrity violated its permit and sanctioned the captain.

Gus Yahya Attends Pesantrenku Aman Declaration in South Kalimantan

Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Chairman KH Yahya Cholil Staquf attended the declaration of the 'Pesantrenku Aman' (My Safe Pesantren) national movement in South Kalimantan, aimed at eradicating violence in Islamic boarding schools. The initiative, launched in partnership with the government, seeks to establish child-friendly and secure educational environments free from physical, verbal, and sexual abuse. The event also served as a platform for consolidating cooperation among 20 local pesantren ahead of the 2026 NU Congress.

What Happens if the US Halts Aid to Israel?

A growing faction within the US Democratic Party is pushing to end financial aid and arms sales to Israel, a stance once considered radical. Analysts suggest that while halting the annual $3.8 billion in aid would be politically popular, it would have minimal economic impact on Israel, which could fund the shortfall by slightly increasing its defence spending. However, cutting off the supply of advanced US weaponry, which accounts for 68 per cent of Israel's major arms imports, could significantly constrain its military capabilities, though it may not shift Israeli public opinion against a two-state solution.

PUI: Do Not Make Quranic Verses a Mockery to Promote Alcohol

The Islamic Union (PUI) has condemned a promotional campaign by alcohol brand Newport that involved reciting Surah Ad-Dhuha for free drinks, calling it a serious breach of public decency. PUI Chairman Raizal Arifin stressed that marketing creativity must respect religious symbols and urged the company to clarify its intentions. The organisation emphasised that commercial messages must honour societal values and norms, not just target consumers.

Nusa Penida Plans to Bring Forward Last Tourist Boat Departure to 3 PM

The Klungkung Transportation Agency is preparing a proposal to reschedule the final daily fast boat departure from Nusa Penida to Bali to 3:00 PM WITA, two hours earlier than the current schedule. Officials argue the change is needed to better manage tourist flows and address the economic imbalance where day-trippers primarily benefit the transportation sector, while hotels and restaurants see little sustained impact. The plan, which aims to encourage longer overnight stays, is still in its early stages and will require further discussion with port authorities and local tourism businesses.

Recycle Me Initiative Strengthens Plastic Waste Collection System in Bali

A new collaborative programme called 'Recycle Me' has been launched in Bali to improve the collection of post-consumer PET bottle packaging. The initiative, a partnership between the Coca-Cola System and local retailer PT Global Retailindo Pratama, provides drop boxes at 20 M Mart outlets across the island. Officials have praised the scheme as a practical contribution to accelerating Bali's circular economy and tackling the province's annual 1.25 million tonnes of waste.

Syria Condemns Colombia's Recognition of 'Israeli Sovereignty' over Golan Heights

Syria has strongly condemned Colombia's recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the occupied Golan Heights, calling it a violation of international law and UN resolutions. Damascus reaffirmed that the Golan remains an inseparable part of Syrian territory and noted growing international support for its position. The Syrian government also denounced ongoing Israeli military incursions and vowed to pursue diplomatic and legal measures to reclaim the occupied land.

Sinar Mas Land and Sojitz Target Housing Needs of 70,000 Workers in Deltamas Industrial Estate

Sinar Mas Land and Japan's Sojitz Corporation have launched a new housing cluster named Meliora in Kota Deltamas, Cikarang, aiming to cater to the more than 70,000 workers in the industrial area. The development seeks to reduce long commutes for employees, many of whom currently live outside the estate. The project is part of a broader effort to strengthen Deltamas's position as a self-sufficient city integrating residential, business, and lifestyle functions.

Nazca Plate Tearing Triggers Devastating Mw7.4 Earthquake in Colombia

A powerful Mw7.4 intraslab earthquake struck western Colombia, killing at least 138 people and injuring hundreds more. Experts explain the quake was caused by internal deformation and tearing within the subducting Nazca Plate, not by friction at the plate boundary. The event highlights the destructive potential of deep intermediate-depth earthquakes and offers crucial lessons for seismically active nations like Indonesia.

Hanura proposes first seat goes to number 1 candidate

The Hanura Party has proposed a hybrid legislative election system combining closed and open proportional representation. Under the proposal, the first seat a party wins would automatically go to the top-listed candidate, while subsequent seats would be allocated based on the highest individual vote counts. The party aims to balance party authority with candidate competition.

LBH Urges West Sumatra Police to Ethically Process Senior Officer Despite Victim's Peace Deal

The Padang Legal Aid Institute (LBH) is demanding that the West Sumatra Regional Police continue an ethical investigation into a senior officer accused of assault, despite the case being settled through restorative justice. The institute argues that the settlement should not preclude internal disciplinary proceedings, as the officer's actions have tarnished the force's reputation. The case involves the Director of General Criminal Investigation, who allegedly punched a civilian driver following a traffic dispute.

BNI Private's AUM Grows 21 Percent in Q2 2026

PT Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) reported a 21 percent year-on-year increase in assets under management (AUM) for its BNI Private division as of the second quarter of 2026. The growth reflects rising client trust and is supported by the expansion of cross-border wealth management services and comprehensive advisory. The bank aims to strengthen its position in the high-net-worth individual segment through product innovation and its international network.

Pasuruan Regency deploys 3 water tankers to help extinguish Bromo fire

The Pasuruan Regency Government has deployed three water tankers and a fire engine to combat a wildfire in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park that has been burning for ten days. Strong winds and steep terrain continue to hamper efforts to fully extinguish the blaze. Around 100 personnel from various agencies, including the military and national disaster agency, are involved in manual firefighting and water bombing operations.

Polda Metro Jaya arrests suspect in Tangerang murder-rape case

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police have arrested a man suspected of murdering and raping a woman at a rented house in Benda, Tangerang City. The suspect, identified by the initials KF, was apprehended within 24 hours of the incident. Police are currently conducting intensive examinations to establish the full chronology and motive behind the attack on the victim, a woman in her twenties.

4-Metre High Waves Batter Southern Coast of Central Java and Yogyakarta

High waves reaching up to four metres have struck the southern coast of Central Java and the Special Region of Yogyakarta, causing damage to tourist facilities and forcing visitors to flee. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned that the dangerous sea conditions, accompanied by strong winds, are expected to persist for several days. Local traders reported damage to beachside stalls, though no casualties have been recorded.

Constitutional Economist Says Transferring Whoosh Debt to Finance Ministry Is a Mistake

Constitutional economist Defiyan Cori has criticised the proposed transfer of the Whoosh high-speed rail project's debt to the Ministry of Finance, calling it a misguided move that burdens the state budget. He argues that the financial crisis, stemming from massive cost overruns and a breach of the original business-to-business commitment, should be investigated by law enforcement rather than resolved by using public funds. Cori insists that the newly formed BPI Danantara should assume the liability, not the state budget.

Indonesian Defence Minister and US Deputy Discuss Strengthening Defence Cooperation

Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin met with US Under Secretary of Defence for Policy Elbridge A. Colby in Jakarta to discuss regional security dynamics and concrete steps to bolster defence cooperation. The meeting highlighted the strategic dialogue between the two nations, building on existing military partnerships such as the Super Garuda Shield exercise. Both sides expressed a commitment to developing a constructive, equal, and mutually respectful partnership aimed at contributing to regional peace and stability.

Palangka Raya Extends Emergency Status as Forest and Land Fires Spread

Forest and land fires in Palangka Raya, Central Kalimantan, have expanded to nearly 175 hectares and are approaching residential areas. The escalating intensity of the blazes has prompted the city government to extend the emergency status for forest fires and drought by 29 days. As of 10 August 2026, 195 fire incidents have been recorded.

Generative AI Begins Entering Business Conversations on WhatsApp

Meta has launched its Meta Business Agent in Indonesia, an AI tool designed to handle deep customer interactions from information provision to completing sales. The technology, introduced at the WhatsApp Business Summit 2026, moves beyond simple chatbots by offering product recommendations and scheduling appointments. Meta reports that 71% of Indonesian adult internet users now message businesses daily, with early local adopters seeing significant sales and efficiency gains.

BNPB Relies on Lake Ranu Pani to Extinguish Mount Bromo Fires

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) is relying on Lake Ranu Pani as the sole water source for aerial firefighting operations against forest and land fires on Mount Bromo. The steep, 80-degree slopes make ground access impossible, forcing a reliance on helicopter water bombing. Authorities are also preparing a weather modification operation to induce rain and prevent the fires from reigniting.

UN: Nearly 5,000 homes, 24 health facilities damaged by Colombia earthquake

A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck Colombia has caused widespread devastation, damaging nearly 5,000 homes and 24 health facilities. The disaster has also impacted hundreds of schools and community centres, disrupting essential services such as electricity and water supply. Official reports confirm at least 126 fatalities and 1,495 injuries, though Colombia has yet to request formal international assistance.

NTB's Revised Budget Predicted to Face Rp 300 Billion Deficit, Regional Secretary Claims Employee Salaries Are Safe

West Nusa Tenggara's revised 2026 regional budget is projected to run a deficit of up to Rp 300 billion due to limited fiscal space. Regional Secretary Abul Chair assures that civil servant salaries and additional income benefits remain secure and are the top priority. The shortfall is largely attributed to significantly lower-than-expected revenue-sharing funds from the central government.

Coordinating Minister Airlangga says PFII governor candidate already selected from government ranks

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has confirmed that a candidate for Governor of the Indonesian International Financial Centre (PFII) has been chosen from within the government. The official announcement of the governor and the institutional structure will be made once the legal formation process is complete. The government is also still finalising the operational location, considering sites in Bali near the airport and in Jakarta.

South Kalimantan Government Encourages Pesantren to Adapt Without Losing Identity

The South Kalimantan provincial government is urging Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) to modernise their educational approaches to keep pace with social change and technology, while preserving their core religious values. Officials highlighted the need for pesantren to address complex challenges such as social media influence and youth mental health through compassionate and consultative methods. With 333 pesantren and over 81,000 students in the province, the government aims to strengthen partnerships to ensure these institutions remain safe, relevant, and effective in shaping the character of the younger generation.

Government Seeks to Improve Marine Tourism Safety

The Ministry of Tourism is rolling out a nationwide training programme to bolster safety standards at marine tourism destinations. The initiative, running from June to July 2026, targets tourism workers and coastal communities across eight provinces. It aims to equip participants with skills in risk identification, emergency response, and visitor service to build a safer and more competitive tourism sector.

Researchers Warn of Marine Heatwave Threats to Human Health

Scientists from the University of Adelaide and the University of Hong Kong are calling for marine heatwaves to be recognised as a major public health issue. Their study, published in Nature Sustainability, highlights how prolonged extreme ocean temperatures can worsen extreme weather, reduce seafood supplies, and increase mental health challenges in coastal communities. The researchers note that while the environmental impacts are well-documented, the direct and indirect consequences for human health have been largely overlooked.

ATR/BPN Strengthens Civil Servant Integrity Through Anti-Corruption Education

Indonesia's Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) has launched its first integrity training programme in collaboration with the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). The initiative aims to instil a service-oriented mentality among civil servants and prevent corruption, particularly within the land and spatial planning sectors. Minister Nusron Wahid emphasised that the core duty of the ministry is to simplify public services for the people.

Letter Already Issued, Rinaldi Umar Cancelled as Director of Investigation at Jampidsus, Here's the Attorney General's Office's Reason

The Attorney General's Office has explained its decision to cancel the appointment of Rinaldi Umar as the Director of Investigation at the Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus). The position requires a figure with extensive experience in special crimes, leading to the selection of Saiful Bahri Siregar, a former High Prosecutor's Office head. Rinaldi Umar will instead be assigned as the Deputy Head of the South Sumatra High Prosecutor's Office.

Minister of Religious Affairs marks new construction of MIN 5 Pidie Jaya on donated land

Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar has laid the foundation stone for a new two-storey building for Madrasah Ibtidaiyah Negeri (MIN) 5 Pidie Jaya, Aceh, replacing the school destroyed by flooding in late November 2025. The construction, funded by a Rp12 billion budget from the Directorate General of Islamic Education, will be built on 6,050 square metres of land voluntarily donated by the local community. The new facility, designed pro bono by architects from Syiah Kuala University, will include a mosque, teacher housing, laboratories, a library, and a canteen, with completion targeted in under a year.

Law Ministry Trials E-Voting for East Java Regional Office Head Selection

Indonesia's Ministry of Law has launched an e-voting pilot project in East Java to select the head of its regional office, involving staff in the voting process. The initiative, part of a broader digital transformation, aims to enhance transparency and talent management in bureaucratic appointments. Minister Supratman Andi Agtas stated the trial does not replace the existing bureaucratic system but delegates ministerial authority to allow staff participation.

BNN Collaborates with Three Ministries to Prepare Recovering Drug Abuse Survivors for the Workforce

Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Ministries of Health, Social Affairs, and Manpower to provide integrated support for drug abuse survivors. The initiative aims to extend recovery beyond medical and social rehabilitation by including skills training and employment access. Officials stressed that without economic empowerment and social acceptance, survivors are at high risk of relapse.

BNPB relies on Lake Ranu Pani water to fight Mount Bromo fire

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) is maximising the use of Lake Ranu Pani as the sole water source for helicopter water bombing operations to extinguish the ongoing fire at Mount Bromo. Ground teams are unable to reach the main fire hotspots due to dangerously steep slopes of up to 80 degrees. The agency is also planning a weather modification operation around 14-16 August to induce rain and prevent the fire from reigniting.

WEGE-RDM KSO Begins Construction of Temanggung Hospital Polyclinic Building Worth IDR 155.4 Billion

A joint operation between PT Wijaya Karya Bangunan Gedung Tbk (WEGE) and RDM has commenced construction of a new polyclinic building at Temanggung Regional General Hospital. The project, valued at IDR 155.42 billion, is funded by the hospital's budget for 2026 and 2027. The facility aims to improve public health services with modern medical installations and a more effective patient flow.

Baznas RI Distributes 1.5 Million Litres of Clean Water to 3T Regions

Indonesia's National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) has distributed over 1.5 million litres of clean water to more than 70,000 beneficiaries across six provinces. The aid targets underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost (3T) regions, as well as areas suffering from prolonged drought or disasters. The programme combines emergency tanker deliveries with the construction of 37 boreholes to provide sustainable long-term access.

Trump secretly switched planes after Turkey visit

President Donald Trump was covertly moved to a smaller aircraft after a NATO summit in Ankara, using Air Force One as a decoy in a highly classified security operation. The manoeuvre involved Trump exiting the plane via a catering truck, with many White House staff and journalists reportedly unaware of the switch. The incident highlights the extensive precautions taken by US authorities to protect the president during international travel.

Minister Urges Cooperative-Based Palm Oil Downstreaming to Boost Farmer Welfare

Cooperatives and SMEs Minister Ferry Juliantono is pushing for the acceleration of palm oil downstreaming through cooperatives to strengthen farmers' bargaining power and improve welfare. The strategy involves consolidating 2,587 plantation cooperatives and partnering with state-owned PT Agrinas Palma Nusantara to manage recovered forest land. The government aims for cooperatives to eventually own and operate their own crude palm oil (CPO) mills, supported by revolving fund financing.

Pegadaian strengthens financial literacy for informal workers in Tangerang

State-owned pawnbroker PT Pegadaian has launched a financial education programme targeting informal sector workers, specifically motorcycle taxi drivers in Tangerang and South Tangerang. The initiative aims to equip daily-wage earners with skills in budgeting, emergency fund creation, and identifying illegal investments. The move addresses a national gap where financial inclusion outpaces literacy, as 87.74 million Indonesians work in the informal sector.

Apple Develops Anti-AI Technology for iPhone, Here's How It Works

Apple is developing a new feature called Apple Reference Image to verify that a photo was genuinely captured by an iPhone camera, not generated by artificial intelligence. The technology, found in iOS 27 Beta 5 code, works by embedding unique sensor data into photos taken in a special 'Reference Mode'. Verification is processed via Apple's Private Cloud Compute without the company ever viewing the actual image, addressing growing concerns over AI-generated content.

Joint Operation Targets Illegal Traffic Controllers in West Jakarta

Authorities in West Jakarta have launched a joint operation to curb the activities of illegal traffic controllers, known locally as 'pak ogah', at the Rawa Buaya toll exit and other congestion hotspots. The move follows numerous complaints from motorists about traffic disruption and safety risks. Officials from the Public Order Agency and Transportation Department are conducting patrols and issuing warnings in line with a gubernatorial instruction.

ESR and INA Expand Logistics Investment with Two New Warehousing Facilities in Cikarang

ESR and the Indonesia Investment Authority (INA) are expanding their logistics partnership with two new modern warehousing projects in Cikarang, West Java. The developments aim to support growing demand from the manufacturing and distribution sectors in the eastern Jabodetabek industrial corridor. The facilities, featuring high technical specifications and sustainability elements, are expected to strengthen Indonesia's supply chain infrastructure.

KAI Offers 17% Discount and Rp8 Fares for Independence Day

State-owned railway operator KAI is offering a 17 percent discount on commercial economy train tickets and a special Rp8 fare for LRT Jabodebek and Commuter Line services on 17 August 2026. The promotion is part of the celebrations for the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence. KAI's management stated the initiative aims to make public transport more accessible and allow more people to celebrate the national moment together.

Kemenpora Opens Registration for Merdeka Run 2026 Celebrating 81st Independence Day

The Ministry of Youth and Sports (Kemenpora) has opened registration for the Merdeka Run 2026, a free 8-kilometre race starting from the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on 29 August. The event, themed 'Bangun, Bergerak, Merdeka', aims to celebrate the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence and will feature a UMKM bazaar, culinary festival, drone show, and musical performances. The ministry stated the run is part of an effort to express gratitude for Indonesia's growth and to showcase the nation's openness and global collaboration.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Calls for Systemic Strengthening of Integrated Services for Women and Children

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya has stressed the need for systemic strengthening of integrated services to handle violence against women and children, moving beyond individual initiatives. He highlighted that effective implementation requires robust institutional support, adequate regulations, and sufficient budget allocation from regional governments. The initiative aligns with the mandate of Law No. 12 of 2022 on Sexual Violence Crimes, which requires regional governments to establish Technical Implementation Units for the Protection of Women and Children (UPTD PPA).

Employee Rapes Boss's Underage Daughter in Denpasar, Threatened Victim to Stay Silent

A 28-year-old man from Sabu Raijua, East Nusa Tenggara, has been arrested for raping his employer's underage daughter in Denpasar. The perpetrator, identified by the initials DB, threatened the victim to prevent her from reporting the assault. He now faces up to 12 years in prison under Indonesia's criminal code.

Wamendagri Welcomes 65 Papuan Students Arriving in Jakarta for Further Education

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Ribka Haluk welcomed 65 students from remote areas of Papua who arrived at Tanjung Priok Port after a seven-day sea journey. The students are part of a foundation programme providing educational opportunities from junior high through to university. Ribka encouraged the students to study diligently and adapt to their new environment in Tangerang.

Moerdijat: Education Must Not Only Be Market-Oriented, But Also Build Character

Indonesian education is at a crossroads, requiring transformation to produce graduates with critical thinking and character, not just technical skills, according to Lestari Moerdijat. A recent LPEM FEB UI report reveals that 8.01 million university graduates are underemployed, highlighting a significant mismatch between the education system and labour market needs. Moerdijat calls for collective synergy to realign education with economic demands without neglecting national values.

BPK Launches SPKN 2026, Transforming Indonesia's Public Sector Auditing Standards

The Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) has officially launched the 2026 State Financial Auditing Standards (SPKN 2026), marking a significant transformation of public sector auditing in the country. The new framework aligns with global standards and aims to enhance the quality, professionalism, and benefits of audits for governance and public welfare. Its implementation will also expand the scope of users to include internal auditors across state-owned enterprises, Bank Indonesia, and the Financial Services Authority.

Freeport Indonesia's IUPK Extension Still Under Government Review, Says Energy Ministry

The Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has confirmed that PT Freeport Indonesia's application for a special mining business permit (IUPK) extension is still under review. The company submitted the request in mid-2026 to secure investment certainty for long-term underground mine development, which requires more than 15 years. Freeport McMoRan's semester I-2026 report indicates the extension would allow operations to continue beyond the current 2041 expiry, with the company's stake reducing from 48.76% to approximately 37% from 2042 under a memorandum of understanding signed with the government.

Megawati Inaugurates New PDIP Wing Leaders, Stresses Research and Grassroots Loyalty

PDI Perjuangan Chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri inaugurated new leaders for the party's youth wing, Muslim organisation, and research body in Jakarta. She emphasised that political movements must be grounded in scientific research and urged cadres to remain loyal to the people as the party's source of strength. The appointments are part of a broader effort to strengthen internal consolidation and ensure the party's policies are data-driven and community-focused.

Purbaya on Reshuffle Rumours: I Don't Know

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has declined to comment on speculation that he may be moved to lead the Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming in a cabinet reshuffle. Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia also stated that the matter was not discussed during their meeting and that such decisions are the prerogative of the President.

Deputy Finance Minister Juda Agung Sends Message on New Gold ETF Investment

Deputy Finance Minister Juda Agung stated that the launch of a gold Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) product can deepen Indonesia's capital market, urging accountable and transparent management. He noted the global gold ETF market has reached US$559 billion, reflecting the instrument's growing importance. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto also announced plans to coordinate on equalising tax treatment for the new product to boost investment.

Situbondo Opens Rp40 Billion Investment Opportunity for Pasir Putih Coastal Tourism

The Situbondo Regency Government is seeking strategic partners to invest at least Rp40 billion in transforming the legendary Pasir Putih Beach into an integrated coastal tourism destination. The initiative, structured as a Cooperation for Utilisation (KSP) scheme, offers a 30-year partnership and aims to revitalise the area with professional management, new attractions, and improved connectivity. Officials believe the beach's strategic location along the Pantura route and its connection to broader East Java and Bali tourism ecosystems will attract significant investor interest.

Police Traffic Corps Encourages Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers to Become Road Safety Pioneers

The Indonesian National Police Traffic Corps (Korlantas Polri) is urging online motorcycle taxi (ojol) drivers to act as pioneers of road safety, leveraging their constant presence on the streets. The initiative was discussed during a meeting with the National Ojol Community, where police highlighted the drivers' role as a public service interface. The community aims to be formally declared and serve as a frontline partner for the police in maintaining traffic safety.

Four Ministries and BNN Sign MoU on Integrated Drug Rehabilitation and Survivor Empowerment

Four Indonesian ministries and the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) have signed a memorandum of understanding to provide integrated rehabilitation and empowerment for drug abuse survivors. The agreement aims to synchronize data, standardize treatment based on severity, and facilitate vocational training and job placement to help recovering addicts return to productive society. Officials emphasized that this cross-institutional synergy, using a single national database, will make interventions more targeted, effective, and measurable.

East Nusa Tenggara Receives Rp 1.94 Trillion in Additional General Allocation Funds

The central government has allocated an additional Rp 1.94 trillion in General Allocation Funds (DAU) to East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) for the 2026 fiscal year. The funds are intended to strengthen the fiscal capacity of local governments and accelerate development programmes across the province. Kupang Regency is set to receive the largest share of the additional budget, amounting to approximately Rp 170 billion.

Strong El Niño to Prolong South Sumatra Dry Season Until Late October

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned that a strong El Niño phenomenon will cause drier conditions in South Sumatra, with the peak of the dry season expected in August and September. The intensifying Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) is also reducing rainfall, potentially delaying the onset of the rainy season until late October or early November. Authorities are urging heightened vigilance against the increased risk of forest and land fires.

Grab Academy Goes Beyond Ride-Hailing: Drivers Become Content Creators and Entrepreneurs

Grab Indonesia's Academy programme has reached over 1.15 million driver-partners since 2018, offering upskilling opportunities beyond ride-hailing. The initiative has enabled thousands to transition into roles such as car drivers, merchant partners, and content creators. The programme forms part of Grab's broader Rp 100 billion commitment to Indonesia.

West Jakarta City Government Strengthens Cross-Sector Cooperation to Reduce Stunting

The West Jakarta City Government is intensifying cross-sector collaboration to accelerate the reduction of stunting cases. The initiative involves integrated interventions from the city level down to neighbourhood units, targeting a prevalence reduction to 15% by 2026. Officials stress that tackling stunting is a crucial investment for Indonesia's future human capital and the 2045 Golden Generation vision.

Govt to restrict Pertalite subsidies for upper deciles in phases

The Indonesian government is planning to phase out subsidised Pertalite fuel for the wealthiest households, specifically targeting the top two income deciles. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stressed the urgency of restructuring energy subsidies, noting that hundreds of trillions of rupiah are currently misallocated to affluent families. The policy aims to safeguard the state budget from global oil price volatility while ensuring subsidies reach their intended beneficiaries.

Bromo Wildfire Scorches Nearly 900 Hectares, Joint Task Force Battles Remaining Hotspots

A wildfire that ignited on 3 August 2026 in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park area has burned approximately 899.35 hectares. Integrated firefighting efforts involving the military, police, and four regional governments have successfully contained the blaze, preventing further spread. Operations are now focused on extinguishing remaining active hotspots in the Watangan, Argowulan, and Dingklik areas.

Minister Ferry Juliantono Encourages Cooperatives to Build Their Own CPO Mills

Minister of Cooperatives Budi Arie Setiadi has urged cooperatives in Musi Banyuasin to establish their own crude palm oil (CPO) mills to strengthen downstream processing and increase value for farmers. The initiative aims to consolidate smallholder farmers and leverage support from state-owned enterprise PT Agrinas Palma Nusantara. The ministry has identified 2,587 plantation cooperatives that could form the basis for this downstream development programme.

Indonesian Border Community Marks Independence Day with Flag Display and Parade

Residents of Jagoi Babang sub-district in West Kalimantan raised 3,000 Indonesian flags and held a parade along the Malaysia-Indonesia border to celebrate the 81st anniversary of national independence. The sub-district head emphasized that the display of nationalism serves to remind citizens of their strategic position as the nation's front porch. He also called on the younger generation to use diversity as a catalyst for regional development and to maintain interethnic harmony.

Indonesia, IOM to renew cooperation on migrant worker protection

Indonesia and the International Organization for Migration are set to renew their cooperation agreement to better protect Indonesian migrant workers, aligning with the recent elevation of the migrant workers protection body to a full ministry. The renewed partnership aims to broaden the scope of collaboration, including expanding the 'Golden Migrant Village' programme, which focuses on empowering returning workers and their families to build independent livelihoods.

Two Arrested for Impersonating KPK Officials to Defraud Elderly Woman of Rp300 Million

Police in South Tangerang have arrested two individuals for allegedly posing as a former detainee and an employee of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) to swindle a 70-year-old woman. The suspects convinced the victim to hand over money and a vehicle under the pretence of facilitating an asset disbursement. The pair were apprehended in Cianjur, West Java, less than 24 hours after the crime was reported.

KemenHAM's Procurement Unit Achieves Proactive Level 3 Maturity in 18 Months

The Procurement Unit of the Ministry of Human Rights has attained a Proactive Level 3 maturity rating just 18 months after its establishment. The achievement was recognised by the National Public Procurement Agency as a result of strengthened institutional frameworks and human resource competencies. The ministry aims to continue enhancing transparency and accountability in state spending through digital technology and anti-corruption measures.

Megawati Inaugurates New PDIP Wing and Body Leaders, Stresses Loyalty to the People

PDIP Chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri inaugurated the new leadership of the party's wing organizations and bodies, including Taruna Merah Putih and Baitul Muslimin Indonesia, at the party headquarters in Jakarta. During the ceremony, she urged the newly appointed officials to remain loyal to the people, emphasizing that the party's strength comes from its grassroots connection. Megawati also highlighted the importance of science-based research and tasked the party's research body with addressing issues such as unemployment among educated academics.

Beijing Braces for Torrential Rain Equivalent to Over a Third of Annual Rainfall

Beijing is bracing for extreme rainfall starting Tuesday night, with forecasts predicting over 150 millimetres of rain in 24 hours. The deluge, triggered by a collision of moist air from Typhoon Dolphin and a northern cold front, could see some districts receive over 200 millimetres, equivalent to 38% of the city's average annual precipitation. Authorities have issued the highest-level flood emergency warnings for mountainous western districts and urged residents to stay indoors.

Attorney General Appoints Saiful Bahri Siregar as Director of Investigation, Reversing Rinaldi Umar's Appointment

Attorney General Sanitiar Burhanuddin has officially appointed Saiful Bahri Siregar as the new Director of Investigation for the Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, reversing a previous decree that named Rinaldi Umar to the post. The Attorney General's Office explained the change was necessary because the position requires a prosecutor with extensive and mature investigative experience. Following the cancellation of his appointment, Rinaldi Umar will be assigned as Deputy Head of the South Sumatra High Prosecutor's Office.

Danantara: Yogyakarta Waste-to-Energy Plant to Absorb 1,000 Workers

The Danantara Investment Management Agency has announced that the construction of a Waste-to-Energy Plant (PSEL) in the Special Region of Yogyakarta will absorb up to 1,000 local workers. The project, one of eleven similar facilities being developed simultaneously across Indonesia, is scheduled to commence construction in early 2027. Once operational, the plant is expected to process 1,000 tonnes of waste daily, with the generated electricity to be sold to the state electricity company PLN.

Government Synergises with Stakeholders to Accelerate EV Charging Station Development

The Indonesian government is accelerating the development of Public Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (SPKLU) to keep pace with the growing adoption of electric vehicles. A new ministerial decree outlines the development plan for 2025-2030, targeting diverse locations such as shopping centres, toll road rest areas, and petrol stations. Business licensing procedures are also being simplified to encourage greater private sector participation.

Jakarta Governor Emphasises Social Cohesion and Moral Strength in Global City Transformation

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has stressed that the capital's transformation into a global city must go beyond infrastructure and economic growth to include strengthening social cohesion, harmony, and morality. He affirmed the Jakarta provincial government's full support for the Indonesian Ulema Council's (MUI) 2025–2030 policy direction, particularly in promoting religious moderation and combating extremism. The MUI is expected to act as a bridge between the government and the public, adapting its outreach to suit Jakarta's modern, plural, and digital society.

Thailand Suspends Issuance of Gun Carry Permits for One Year Following Deadly School Shooting

The Thai government has imposed a one-year suspension on issuing permits to carry firearms in public following a fatal school shooting. The policy aims to restore public order, reduce the risk of violence, and rebuild public trust. Authorities have also been instructed to tighten background checks for firearm purchase licences and strengthen supervision of existing licensed gun owners.

East Java Intensifies Firefighting and Prevention Efforts in Bromo

The East Java Provincial Government is intensifying efforts to extinguish and prevent forest and land fires in the Bromo area following the declaration of an emergency status. Authorities are tightening perimeter restrictions and increasing surveillance to minimise the risk of new fire spots. The affected area has expanded to approximately 800 hectares, though the fire trend is reportedly declining.

Government Prepares Tax Incentives for Gold ETFs to Boost Investment

The Indonesian government is preparing tax incentives for Gold Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) to ensure they receive equal treatment with other securities instruments. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto stated that coordination is underway with the Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the Ministry of Finance to accelerate the policy's formulation. The move aims to strengthen Indonesia's position as a gold investment hub, with national gold holdings now valued at approximately US$20 billion.

National Police Traffic Corps Invites Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers to Become Traffic Safety Partners

The National Police Traffic Corps (Korlantas Polri) has called on online motorcycle taxi (ojol) drivers to act as partners in promoting traffic safety and public order. During a meeting with the Ojol Nusantara Association, officials highlighted the drivers' strategic position as frontline public service providers who can report incidents via the 110 hotline. The association, which has over 2,400 members across 22 provinces, expressed its commitment to becoming pioneers of road safety through initiatives like safety riding and first aid.

Indonesia and Illinois Forge Landmark Partnership to Boost Trade, Investment, and Innovation

Indonesia and the US state of Illinois have signed a Statement of Mutual Cooperation, marking the first formal partnership between Jakarta and an individual American state. The agreement aims to foster direct collaboration in trade, investment, advanced manufacturing, agriculture, and research. Both parties will now identify priority sectors and flagship projects to ensure the partnership delivers measurable and mutually beneficial outcomes.

AGO Exercises Caution in Money Laundering Probe Against Former Special Crimes Deputy

The Attorney General's Office (AGO) has stated it is proceeding with caution in the money laundering investigation involving former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah, citing his deep understanding of the law. The probe is linked to the discovery of 74 kilograms of gold and Rp543 billion in cash. Officials have declined to disclose detailed case material, stating that all evidence will be presented during the trial.

Pramono to Hold Special Meeting on Future of Jakarta's Bicycle Lanes

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has announced a dedicated meeting to evaluate the city's bicycle lane facilities following public feedback. The review will consider whether to maintain or modify the lanes, with some residents calling for their removal on certain roads to ease traffic congestion.

Government to Synchronise Hazardous Waste Data for Better Oversight

The Ministry of Environment is updating and reconciling data on hazardous and toxic waste (B3) to better reflect actual conditions in the field. The initiative aims to create a comprehensive picture of the waste management chain, from generation to final processing, by synchronising electronic manifests and facility data. This effort is expected to enhance government supervision and ensure more effective policy-making for environmental and public health protection.

Gus Yahya: 35th NU Congress to Focus on Organisational Programme and Leadership Refreshment

PBNU Chairman KH Yahya Cholil Staquf has stated that the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Congress will prioritise discussions on the organisation's five-year programme and leadership renewal. The congress is scheduled to take place at the Bahrul Ulum Islamic Boarding School in Jombang, East Java, from 27 to 31 August 2026. Ahead of the event, NU branches in South Kalimantan have communicated their request for Gus Yahya to stand for re-election as Chairman.

Ministry of Law Trials E-Voting for Regional Office Head Appointments

The Ministry of Law has conducted an e-voting trial involving employees of the East Java Regional Office to select candidates for the office's leadership. The initiative aims to enhance transparency and implement talent management within the ministry. Secretary General Nico Afinta stated that the digital transformation programme is designed to provide fast, precise, and accountable services both to the public and internally.

Mataram Court Rejects Prosecutors' Appeal in NTB DPRD 'Ghost Money' Graft Case

The Mataram District Court has rejected an appeal filed by the West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) High Prosecutor's Office against the acquittal of three regional councillors in a high-profile gratification case. The court ruled the appeal did not meet formal requirements, prompting prosecutors to announce they will file an objection. The case involved allegations that the three councillors distributed money to fellow legislators to ensure they did not question the implementation of the governor's flagship 'Desa Berdaya' (Empowered Villages) programme.

Jakarta MUI Encourages Cadres to Understand Environmental Fiqh

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) of Jakarta is promoting eco-theology education to instil environmental awareness among Muslims, framing conservation and waste management as religious duties. The initiative aligns with the Jakarta provincial government's intensified efforts to tackle the capital's waste crisis. The council aims to cultivate a generation of religious scholars well-versed in environmental jurisprudence to disseminate this understanding widely.

AHY Emphasises Innovation and Investment for Sustainable Infrastructure

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY), has stressed that sustainable infrastructure development requires innovation, investment, and synergy between the government, businesses, and academics. He highlighted that water security is a national priority on par with food and energy security under President Prabowo Subianto's vision. The remarks were made in conjunction with the Indo Water 2026 Expo & Forum, a major cross-sectoral exhibition in Jakarta.

Ahead of MSCI Review, Indef Says Market Conditions Tend to be Wait and See

Indef's Rizal Taufikurrahman notes market participants are adopting a wait-and-see approach ahead of the MSCI review announcement. The review's outcome is seen as critical for Indonesia's market credibility and investability, with potential to either catalyse foreign capital inflows or increase the risk premium. The assessment will hinge on the substantive implementation of reforms regarding transparency, free float, and liquidity.

Central Java Poultry Farmers Protest Soaring Feed Prices, Low Egg Sales

Poultry farmers in Central Java staged protests across several districts, decrying a 25 percent surge in feed costs since April and a simultaneous drop in egg prices to as low as Rp 15,000 per kilogramme at the farm gate. The farmers also claim the government's free nutritious meal programme (MBG) has had little impact, as purchasing prices remain low. They are demanding lower feed prices and an increased quota of subsidised maize to help offset rising production costs.

Indonesia transforms land services to close loopholes for land mafia

The Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning is overhauling its land services to eliminate opportunities for land mafia exploitation. Minister Nusron Wahid announced measures including data integration with local governments, a 10-day limit for title transfers starting in 2026, and a focus on transparency and human resource integrity. The minister stressed that clean, integrated data and faster services are essential to shutting down illegal broker activities.

INTI 2026 Exhibition Showcases Diverse Technological Innovations

The Indonesia Technology & Innovation (INTI) 2026 exhibition opened in Jakarta, bringing together industry players, government, investors, and academics. The event aims to strengthen collaboration and drive the development of Indonesia's digital ecosystem from upstream to downstream. It features 952 exhibitors from eight countries and targets 30,000 visitors from 20 nations.

KAI Launches Independence Day Livery on Intercity Trains

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) has introduced a special red and white livery on several intercity trains to commemorate the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence. The livery, bearing the official theme 'Indonesia Berdaulat, Adil, dan Makmur', adorns trains connecting major cities across Java. KAI stated the initiative aims to bring the spirit of independence closer to the public during their journeys.

Kemenpora Invites Public to Celebrate Independence Day with Merdeka Run 2026

The Ministry of Youth and Sports (Kemenpora) is inviting the public to celebrate the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence with a healthy and spirited activity. The Merdeka Run 2026, themed 'Bangun, Bergerak, Merdeka' (Rise, Move, Be Free), will take place on 29 August 2026. The event will feature an 8-kilometre run starting from the Merdeka Palace, alongside a UMKM fair, culinary festival, drone show, and musical performances.

Eight killed in North Sulawesi drag race crash, police launch investigation

A fatal crash during an authorised drag race tournament in North Sulawesi has left eight people dead and eight others seriously injured. Police have launched an investigation and are questioning five individuals, including the driver, for potential criminal negligence. The incident has raised questions about safety standards at officially sanctioned motorsport events in Indonesia.

Grab Launches GrabAcademy to Help Driver-Partners 'Level Up'

Grab Indonesia has launched GrabAcademy, a new initiative designed to provide its driver-partners with more opportunities for learning and development. The programme, backed by an investment of over Rp100 billion this year, aims to help partners expand their capacity and strengthen their businesses. Grab plans to collaborate with the government, educational institutions, and MSME communities to broaden the programme's benefits.

House Commission IV Urges Government to Redesign Meat Supply Scheme Amid Rising Prices

A senior Indonesian legislator has called on the government to overhaul its national meat supply strategy, warning that reliance on imports will cause continued price volatility throughout 2026. The statement follows reports that average beef and buffalo prices have exceeded the government's official selling price, with some regions seeing prices surpass Rp200,000 per kilogram. Despite projected total availability exceeding national demand, the lawmaker argued that secure supply on paper does not necessarily translate to stable prices for consumers.

Cirebon Prepares for Hydrometeorological Disasters as Drought Affects Thousands

The Cirebon City Government is shifting towards anticipatory measures to tackle water shortages, as drought has already impacted over 3,000 residents in the Argasunya sub-district. Mayor Effendi Edo highlighted a significant rise in hydrometeorological disasters, with incidents nearly doubling from 2020 to 2025. Authorities have distributed tens of thousands of litres of water and declared a state of emergency to strengthen mitigation efforts.

Avoiding Gambling Elements in Independence Day Competitions: A Fiqh Perspective

As Indonesia celebrates its Independence Day with various traditional competitions, a scholar from Rumah Fiqih clarifies the Islamic boundaries between festive games and prohibited gambling. The explanation details four specific criteria that transform a simple contest into haram gambling. By understanding these conditions, Muslim communities can ensure their celebrations remain permissible and joyful without violating religious principles.

House Commission VII Highlights Waste and Clean Water Crisis in NTB's Gili Islands

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) Commission VII has urged the West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) provincial government to swiftly address mounting waste and clean water issues in the Gili Islands. Vice Chair Rahayu Saraswati Djojohadikusumo expressed concern that inoperable incinerators and overlapping conservation area statuses are hindering waste management. Meanwhile, local officials are seeking central government permits for beach well extraction as a technical solution to the water shortage affecting Gili Meno.

Wamendagri Welcomes 65 Papuan Students Arriving in Jakarta for Further Education

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Ribka Haluk has welcomed 65 students from the remote highlands and interior of Papua who arrived in Jakarta to continue their education. The students, recruited through the Yayasan Pendidikan Harapan Papua (YPHP) programme, will study in Tangerang after a seven-day sea journey. Ribka praised the initiative as a challenging effort to break through geographical barriers and urged the students to adapt and study diligently.

Neo Karya Internasional and AI Rudder Collaborate to Strengthen Digital Solutions with AI Voice Agent

Indonesian technology company Neo Karya Internasional has partnered with AI Rudder to integrate AI Voice Agent technology into its digital solutions. The collaboration aims to help businesses manage high-volume voice interactions through automation while maintaining natural conversation flow. The initiative reflects the growing adoption of artificial intelligence to enhance operational efficiency and customer experience across various industries.

Floods Recede in Depok's Bulak Barat After River Normalisation, New Bridge Planned

Floodwaters that had submerged a road in Bulak Barat, Cipayung, Depok, for months have finally receded following river normalisation efforts by the local government. The receding waters have revealed a mud-covered bridge, with heavy machinery still on site to complete dredging works. Depok Mayor Supian Suri has announced plans to build a new bridge and complete the river dredging this year as a short-term solution to the persistent flooding.

Navy Major Smuggles Meth on Military Plane, Packages Inscribed with 'Umrah Congratulations'

A high-ranking Indonesian Navy officer, Major Faisal Mulia, has been charged with trafficking methamphetamine using a military aircraft. The drugs, destined for Madiun, were disguised in packages bearing the message 'selamat umrah' (congratulations on your pilgrimage). The officer was apprehended after handing a box containing 12 packages of meth to the crew of a CN-235 military plane in Tanjungpinang.

NASA Invites India to Join Ambitious Lunar Base Programme

The United States has invited India to participate in NASA's lunar base programme as part of efforts to deepen space partnership between the two nations. The invitation was extended during a joint working group meeting on civil space cooperation held in Bengaluru. The proposed lunar outpost aims to support a sustained human presence on the Moon and prepare for future deep space exploration.

Drought Drives Significant Rise in Staple Food Prices in Subang

A prolonged dry season has triggered a sharp increase in the prices of essential food commodities in Subang Regency, West Java. Local authorities report that agricultural products such as corn and long beans have seen prices double, while other staples have risen by up to 30 per cent. The government is being urged to intervene as reduced supply begins to impact household budgets.

Former Minister's Aide Accused of Embezzling Rp93.6 Billion in Hajj Quota Scandal

Ishfah Abidal Azis, a former special staffer to ex-Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, has been charged with illicitly enriching himself by approximately Rp93.6 billion in a case involving the mismanagement of additional hajj quotas. The defendant rejected the charges as 'tyrannical' and insisted that no state losses were incurred during the 2023 and 2024 pilgrimages. Prosecutors allege the quota-filling process bypassed legal mechanisms, resulting in eligible pilgrims being denied departure while others without proper waiting periods were accommodated.

PLN Confirms 100% Electrification in Rejang Lebong Regency

State electricity company PLN has confirmed that all 122 villages and 34 sub-districts in Rejang Lebong Regency, Bengkulu, now have access to electricity. While full village-level coverage has been achieved, the company is working to connect a few remaining isolated hamlets, including Dusun Palembang Kecil, by the end of the year. The acting regent has pledged local government support to help expand the network to these remote areas.

Minister Fadli Zon: Affirmation of STEM Education is Appropriate

Indonesian Minister of Culture Fadli Zon has stated that the government's policy of affirming STEM education is correct, arguing that the humanities are already well-established. He noted that Indonesia lags behind other nations in science and technology, necessitating a push for experts in fields like rocketry and quantum physics. The remarks were made during a national symposium where academics discussed strengthening the position of the humanities alongside STEM disciplines.

KPK and BPKP Examine Rudy Tanoe to Calculate State Losses in Rice Social Assistance Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) and the Financial and Development Supervisory Agency (BPKP) have examined Rudy Tanoe, a commissioner of PT Dosni Roha Logistik, as a witness. The examination focused on the mechanism of distributing rice social assistance for the Family Hope Programme, which allegedly did not reach the intended beneficiaries. The investigation aims to calculate state financial losses resulting from the alleged unlawful acts in the procurement and distribution process.

Amazon Built a Massive Data Centre in a California Town for 5 Years Without Residents' Knowledge

Residents of Gilroy, California, only discovered Amazon's secretive 4-hectare data centre project after construction had already begun, sparking outrage over a lack of transparency. The tech giant exploited a 45-year-old zoning rule that bypassed public consultation, raising concerns about electricity costs, water consumption, and environmental impact. Despite Amazon's subsequent offers of community benefits, locals are demanding earlier involvement for future large-scale developments.

West Jakarta Administration Distributes 8,000 Flags Ahead of Independence Day

The West Jakarta city administration has distributed 8,000 Indonesian flags to residents and road users to mark the 81st anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia's independence. The initiative follows a directive from the Ministry of Home Affairs aimed at fostering national pride and unity. Mayor Iin Mutmainnah has also instructed sub-district and village heads to encourage all citizens to fly the flag at their homes.

DPR Member Condemns Alcoholic Beverage Promotion Using Quranic Verse

Maman Imanul Haq, a member of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR), has strongly condemned a promotional event for Newport alcoholic beverages that used a challenge to recite Surah Ad-Dhuha. The politician described the act as unethical and insulting to Islam, demanding the organisers take responsibility. He urged all event and marketing teams to learn from this incident and avoid sacrificing religious values for the sake of virality.

Civil Society Coalition Condemns TNI Commander's Statement on Public Security Responsibility

A coalition of civil society organisations has strongly criticised the Indonesian Military (TNI) Commander, General Agus Subiyanto, for claiming responsibility for public security across Indonesia. The group argues the statement blurs the constitutional separation between defence and domestic security, risking a return to military dominance in civilian life. They have urged the President to halt unjustified military involvement in civil affairs and called for parliamentary oversight.

Budi Delta Swakarya Increases Stake in BUDI with Rp43 Billion Share Purchase

PT Budi Delta Swakarya, the controlling shareholder of PT Budi Starch & Sweetener (BUDI), has acquired an additional 204 million shares, increasing its ownership to 37.65%. The transaction, valued at Rp43 billion, was executed at Rp210 per share, a price below the market rate at the time. Management stated the purchase was made for long-term investment purposes.

East Java Deputy Governor Pushes for Commercialisation of 38 Student Innovations

East Java Deputy Governor Emil Dardak has urged Universitas Muhammadiyah Surabaya to transform 38 appropriate technology innovations into market-ready products. The innovations, developed during a community service programme, include 11 that have already received simple copyright recognition and 26 currently undergoing the patent process. Dardak emphasised that the success of such technology is measured by its practical use and potential entry into the government procurement e-catalogue.

Minister: Online Motorcycle Taxi Presidential Regulation to Be Finalised Within a Week

The Indonesian government is set to finalise a presidential regulation governing the online motorcycle taxi (ojol) ecosystem within the next week, with only a few articles remaining to be resolved. The regulation aims to provide a positive legal framework for the sector's growth and sustainability, while also reclassifying drivers as micro-entrepreneurs. Ride-hailing company Grab has welcomed the upcoming regulation, noting its spirit of protecting and elevating the status of driver-partners.

Government to Restrict Subsidised Pertalite Purchases for High-Income Groups

The Indonesian government is planning to restrict the purchase of subsidised Pertalite fuel for high-income groups, specifically targeting vehicle owners in the top economic deciles. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated that the restriction will be implemented in the coming months once the system is ready, while Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia emphasised that wealthy individuals driving luxury cars should not benefit from fuel subsidies.

Sumbawa Resident Blocks Deputy Regent's Car to Protest Damaged Roads and Water Crisis

A resident of Mata Village in Sumbawa, West Nusa Tenggara, staged a protest by blocking the car of Deputy Regent Mohamad Ansori to demand the repair of severely damaged roads. The man, Jamaludin, also highlighted the lack of clean water access for residents of neighbouring Tolo Oi village. The protest, which went viral on social media, was a response to unfulfilled government promises regarding local infrastructure.

House Commission III Issues Four Recommendations on Death of Ex-Wife of Brigadier I in Medan

House of Representatives Commission III has issued four recommendations following a closed-door meeting regarding the death of WLG, the ex-wife of Brigadier I, who is suspected of having died by suicide. The commission urged the Medan Police to conduct a thorough, transparent, and professional investigation. It also requested that the North Sumatra Regional Police supervise the case and ensure the family is given full access to information.

Government to Classify Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers as Micro Enterprises

The Indonesian government is considering classifying online motorcycle taxi (ojol) drivers as micro-enterprises (UMKM) to provide them with better protection and opportunities. The Ministry of UMKM aims to help drivers upgrade their skills and businesses, while a presidential regulation is being drafted to govern the ride-hailing sector comprehensively.

Airlangga Claims Pertalite and Biodiesel Supply Secure Until Year-End

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has assured that Indonesia's supply of Pertalite fuel and biodiesel will remain secure through the end of the year, despite ongoing global conflicts. He noted that the country's average crude oil purchase price remains around USD 91 per barrel, and that Indonesia's energy supply routes are not dependent on the volatile Strait of Hormuz. The minister also highlighted that domestic electricity supply is stable due to the reliance on coal-fired power plants.

Government to Restrict Subsidised Fuel Purchases Based on Vehicle Type

The Indonesian government is formulating criteria to restrict subsidised fuel purchases, targeting high-end vehicles like BMWs and Mercedes. Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia emphasised that the policy aims to ensure subsidies reach the intended recipients, while motorcycle users will remain unaffected. The Ministry of Finance is currently testing Pertamina's digital systems to implement the restrictions and prevent leakage to wealthy households.

Mayor says face-to-face services important for humanistic approach

Tangerang Mayor Sachrudin has emphasised the importance of face-to-face services in maintaining a humanistic approach, as the city strengthens its Public Service Mall. The city is also introducing various innovations to improve business licensing and investment climate. Tangerang has been nominated as one of the top six regions for its excellent performance in integrated licensing services at the national level.

Sumedang allocates minimum Rp100 billion for road repairs in 2027

The Sumedang Regency Government in West Java has earmarked at least Rp100 billion for road infrastructure improvements in 2027. The allocation, agreed upon with the local parliament, aims to accelerate repairs on nearly 800 kilometres of regency roads. Officials are targeting a road stability rate of 95 per cent by next year.

Jakarta Governor Pramono to Review Capital's Bicycle Lanes

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung will soon hold a special meeting to discuss the future of the capital's bicycle lanes. The review will consider whether to maintain the existing lanes or modify them, following public feedback that some lanes are underutilised on weekdays and contribute to congestion.

Elderly Couple in Bantul Scammed by Fake BPJS Officers, 55 Grams of Gold Stolen

An elderly couple in Bantul, Yogyakarta, fell victim to a theft by three women posing as BPJS health workers offering massage therapy. The perpetrators made off with 55 grams of gold jewellery and Rp5 million in cash while distracting the victims. Police have arrested a male driver linked to the gang and are pursuing four other suspects.

Senior security, law enforcement officials hold strategic gathering

Senior Indonesian security and law enforcement leaders convened to enhance interinstitutional coordination amid evolving political and security dynamics. The meeting underscored the importance of early problem identification and synergy between the TNI, ministries, and other agencies to maintain public order. Officials affirmed that sustained collaboration is essential to ensure national stability and the smooth execution of government programmes.

Non-Tax State Revenue from Energy and Mineral Resources Sector Forecast to Exceed 2026 Target

Indonesia's Finance Minister projects that Non-Tax State Revenue (PNBP) from the energy and mineral resources sector will surpass its 2026 target, following a strong performance in the first seven months of the year. By July, the sector had already collected Rp 96.26 trillion, representing over 70% of the annual goal. The Energy Minister confirmed the optimistic outlook, citing robust contributions from both the oil and gas and the mineral and coal sub-sectors.

IBK Foundation Signs MoU with BBPVP Serang to Enhance Human Resource Quality in Banten

The IBK Foundation has entered into a strategic partnership with the Serang Centre for Vocational Training and Productivity to boost workforce skills and community economic empowerment in Banten. The collaboration, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding, will focus on vocational training, certification, job placement, and entrepreneurship development. The initiative aims to reduce unemployment and produce a globally competitive generation under the foundation's IBK Akademi programme.

National Police Issue Wanted List for Two Suspects in Bali Nightclub Drug Case

The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Department (Bareskrim) has issued a wanted list (DPO) for two men, including the owner of the Five Stars nightclub in Denpasar, Bali, in connection with a drug trafficking case. The suspects, identified as Tony Budiarto and Wahyu Sulistianto, are being sought after a recent raid at the venue led to the detention of 53 individuals. Authorities have urged the public to report any sightings of the pair to the nearest police station.

Ministry of SMEs and OJK Agree to Accelerate Financing Access for MSMEs

Indonesia's Ministry of SMEs and the Financial Services Authority (OJK) have signed a memorandum of understanding to accelerate financing access for micro, small, and medium enterprises. The collaboration aims to boost the bank credit ratio for MSMEs from the current 16.7 percent to a targeted 25 percent by 2029, while also addressing market access to prevent non-performing loans. A joint task force will be established to help MSMEs upgrade and become a primary driver of the national economy.

Aceh Besar accelerates drought-stricken rice field mitigation

The Aceh Besar district government is intensifying efforts to combat drought affecting over 2,100 hectares of rice fields by deploying water pumps and drilling wells. The initiative, involving collaboration with the Sumatra River Basin Agency and the local disaster mitigation agency, aims to prevent crop failure, particularly in areas where rice is in critical growth stages. Officials state the pump distribution and well construction represent a concrete commitment to supporting farmers during the prolonged dry season.

Jakarta Governor Pramono Reviews Anies-Era Bicycle Lanes for Potential Removal

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has announced a review of the city's bicycle lanes, originally introduced under former Governor Anies Baswedan, following public feedback. The administration is considering removing or repurposing the lanes on certain main roads. A decision is expected after a dedicated government meeting.

Pramono Requests President Prabowo to Inaugurate Kelapa Gading-Manggarai LRT

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has formally requested President Prabowo Subianto to inaugurate the new Kelapa Gading-Manggarai LRT route. The 12.2-kilometre line, featuring 11 stations, is expected to reduce travel time to approximately 28 minutes. The inauguration date remains subject to the Presidential Palace's schedule, with further extension plans to Dukuh Atas already in the pipeline.

Ministry of Transport accelerates land transport modernisation through global collaboration

Indonesia's Ministry of Transport is strengthening international cooperation to modernise land transport, focusing on digitalisation, safety, and sustainability. The initiative was highlighted at the 35th ASEAN Land Transport Working Group meeting in Jakarta, where Indonesia currently serves as chair. The ministry emphasised that isolated national strategies are insufficient to address complex global challenges such as supply chain disruptions and climate change.

Drought: 8.7 Million Litres of Water Distributed to 23 Regions in West Java

The West Java provincial government has distributed 8.7 million litres of clean water to combat a worsening drought affecting over 450,000 residents across 23 districts and cities. Bekasi Regency received the largest share, with 3.8 million litres supplied to nearly 45,000 people. Authorities are deploying additional tankers and intensifying mitigation efforts as the dry season impacts water sources across the province.

Bashar Al-Assad Sentenced to Death In Absentia for Crimes Against Humanity

A Syrian court has sentenced former President Bashar al-Assad and his brother Maher to death in absentia for crimes against humanity, including murder and torture. The verdict, delivered by the Supreme Court, also saw a former security chief receive the same sentence while present in court. The ruling comes after Assad fled the country in December 2024 following a major offensive by opposition forces.

Pratikno: Cloud Seeding in Bromo Cannot Proceed Due to Lack of Clouds

Coordinating Minister Pratikno has stated that weather modification operations to combat forest and land fires in the Mount Bromo area cannot be carried out because there are no clouds. Forecasts predict suitable clouds will not appear for another four days. Meanwhile, two fire hotspots remain in the area, and the government is maintaining water bombing efforts while urging regional authorities to strengthen their firefighting capacity.

Five Reported to Police Over Al-Quran Recitation for Alcohol Promotion

An advocate has filed a police report against five individuals following a controversial incident at The Sounds Project music festival in North Jakarta, where a woman recited verses from the Al-Quran in exchange for a bottle of alcohol. The reported parties include the event organiser, the alcohol brand's producer, and the individuals involved in the spontaneous act. The brand Newport and the festival organiser have both issued apologies, stating the incident was not part of any planned promotion and expressing regret for the lapse in supervision.

NTB Government Targets Completion of Land Legality in Gili Trawangan This Year

The West Nusa Tenggara provincial government aims to resolve all land ownership legality issues in the Gili Trawangan tourism area this year. Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal stated the move is intended to provide legal certainty and foster an inclusive, sustainable tourism climate. The resolution involves clarifying the status of provincial government land and aligning conservation area designations with tourism activities.

AGO Reveals Reason Rinaldi Umar Was Not Appointed as New Jampidsus Director of Investigation

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has explained that Rinaldi Umar was not appointed as the new Director of Investigation for the Special Crimes Unit due to a lack of experience in special crimes. The position was instead given to Saiful Bahri Siregar, a former Bengkulu High Prosecutor, who is considered more mature in the field. Rinaldi Umar will be assigned as Deputy Head of the South Sumatra High Prosecutor's Office.

MSCI Review: Indonesian Blue Chips Seen Avoiding Weight Cuts, BRPT to Stay

Analysts expect Indonesian large-cap stocks to avoid weight reductions in the upcoming MSCI quarterly review, with Barito Pacific (BRPT) likely to remain in the MSCI Global Standard Index. The rebalancing is scheduled for August 12, 2026, though MSCI is maintaining a freeze on new Indonesian stock additions. In contrast, GoTo Gojek Tokopedia (GOTO) is expected to be removed from the index.

Gus Alex Accused of Illegally Enriching Himself by IDR 93.6 Billion in Hajj Quota Corruption Case

Prosecutors have indicted Ishfah Abidal Azis, known as Gus Alex, for allegedly enriching himself by IDR 93.6 billion in a corruption case involving additional hajj quotas for 2023-2024. The case, which also implicates former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, is said to have caused state losses of IDR 622 billion. The indictment details that the quota allocation was manipulated, allowing ineligible pilgrims to depart while eligible ones were denied, with the defendants collecting illegal acceleration fees.

Creative Economy Ministry Aims to Make Tomohon a Globally Competitive Floriculture City

Indonesia's Ministry of Creative Economy is positioning Tomohon, North Sulawesi, as an internationally competitive floriculture destination through the 2026 Tomohon International Flower Festival. The event is expected to boost local economic activity across multiple sectors, including floriculture, crafts, culinary, hospitality, and transport. The ministry is committed to helping regions develop their unique products into high-value creative economic assets to drive national growth.

System Testing: Restrictions on Pertalite Fuel Users to Be Implemented Gradually

The Indonesian government is preparing to restrict subsidised Pertalite fuel purchases for high-income households, specifically targeting the top two income deciles. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated the move aims to ensure the state budget is maintained and energy subsidies are better targeted. A digital screening system developed by Pertamina is currently being tested to prevent ineligible consumers from buying the subsidised fuel.

Lawyer Claims Former Minister Yaqut Wanted All Additional Hajj Quota for Regular Pilgrims, but DPR Objected

The legal team for former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has claimed he proposed allocating the entire 2023 additional hajj quota of 8,000 pilgrims to the regular scheme. They allege the House of Representatives (DPR) blocked this, pushing instead for a larger share for the special hajj programme to protect the hajj fund's value. The statement was made during the first hearing of Yaqut's alleged corruption case at the Central Jakarta District Court.

Police Investigate Slaughter of 36 Goats, Suspect More Than One Perpetrator

Police in Serang are investigating the theft and slaughter of 36 goats from a farm in Pontang district. The perpetrators are believed to have killed the animals in a rice field before attempting to transport the carcasses, leaving the remaining livestock behind. The owner suffered material losses estimated at Rp50 million.

LRT Velodrome-Manggarai to be Inaugurated This Month, Pramono: Date Depends on the Palace

The Jakarta provincial government is preparing to inaugurate the LRT Jakarta Phase 1B route connecting Velodrome to Manggarai this August, though the exact date awaits President Prabowo Subianto's schedule. Governor Pramono Anung has formally requested the president officiate the ceremony for the new link, which will extend the existing line to 12.2 kilometres. Construction is reportedly 97.99 per cent complete, with final testing and safety assessments currently underway.

Ministry of Social Affairs Partners with INABA University on 'Sekolah Rakyat' to Tackle Poverty

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs has formalised a partnership with Universitas Indonesia Membangun (INABA) to expand the 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's Schools) programme, an initiative aimed at breaking the cycle of poverty through education. The collaboration, which builds on six months of existing field activities, focuses on equipping students from underprivileged families with academic knowledge, character development, and vocational skills. Officials emphasised that the programme's success will be measured by graduates' ability to secure employment or pursue higher education, thereby lifting their families out of poverty.

The Silent Action of KH Ahmad Dahlan: Muhammadiyah's Legacy for the Nation

An analysis of KH Ahmad Dahlan's enduring legacy explores how the founder of Muhammadiyah transformed prayer into a social movement through education and institutionalised charity. The article argues that his 'Theology of Al-Ma'un' remains a powerful critique of symbolic religiosity, demanding that faith must produce tangible social consequences. It posits that a great nation is one capable of institutionalising goodness, moving beyond individual charity to create sustainable systems of justice.

Indonesia, China seek stronger drug, food regulatory cooperation

Indonesia and China are moving to deepen regulatory cooperation in the pharmaceutical and food sectors to ensure product safety and quality. BPOM Head Taruna Ikrar highlighted China's role as a key supplier of pharmaceutical raw materials and discussed renewing a bilateral agreement with a broader scope. The collaboration aims to facilitate faster access to medicines and vaccines while supporting investment and technology transfer in Indonesia's health industry.

KP2MI Opens Registration for Asta Mandala SMK Go Global Training

The Ministry of Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (KP2MI) has opened registration for the first phase of the SMK Go Global capacity-building programme, targeting 500,000 prospective migrant workers. The initiative, part of President Prabowo Subianto's directive, aims to equip young Indonesians with the technical, language, and cultural skills needed for international labour markets. Training will cover priority sectors such as healthcare, hospitality, and manufacturing, with placements mapped to specific destination countries.

Jakarta Fines Waste Haulage Firm Rp 10 Million for Illegal Dumping in Cilincing

The Jakarta provincial government has fined PT Sinar Berdikari Cemerlang Idaman (SBCI) Rp 10 million for illegally dumping waste at an unauthorised site in Cilincing, North Jakarta. The sanction follows an investigation by the Environmental Agency, which identified the company's vehicles and secured an admission from its representatives. Authorities have issued a formal warning and pledged to intensify oversight of the entire waste transportation chain to prevent further violations.

BKPRMI Urges Investigation into Alcohol Promotion Linked to Quran Memorisation

The Indonesian Mosque Youth Communication Agency (BKPRMI) has called for a thorough evaluation and potential legal action over a viral promotional event that offered alcoholic beverages as a reward for memorising a Quranic verse. The organisation argues that using religious activities to market alcohol is inappropriate and demands authorities investigate possible violations of advertising regulations and consumer protection laws. Police in North Jakarta have launched an inquiry into the incident, which occurred during a music festival in Ancol.

Tanah Laut turns waste management into a pillar for tourism

The Tanah Laut government in South Kalimantan is integrating waste management with environmental preservation to boost its tourism appeal. A visiting official from the Ministry of Environment praised the cleanliness of the Bakunci landfill and highlighted its role in supporting local attractions like Bukit Sapu Angin and Pantai Batakan. The initiative includes composting facilities and tree planting, reinforcing the link between a clean environment and regional tourism development.

Obituary: Former ESDM Secretary General Rida Mulyana Passes Away

Rida Mulyana, the former Secretary General of Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), has died at the age of 63. A respected figure in the energy sector, he previously held key positions including Director General of New Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation (EBTKE) and Commissioner of state oil company Pertamina. He passed away at Pondok Indah Bintaro Hospital in Jakarta.

Minister Purbaya Promises Gradual Restrictions on Pertalite Purchases

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has announced that restrictions on subsidised Pertalite fuel will be implemented in stages, initially targeting the wealthiest households. The policy, discussed with Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia, aims to safeguard the state budget amid volatile global oil prices.

Nail Biting: A Small Habit with Big Risks

The Indonesian Ministry of Health warns that the common habit of nail biting, or onychophagia, can lead to serious health issues such as paronychia, a bacterial skin infection. The habit also facilitates the transfer of germs from the hands to the mouth, increasing the risk of digestive and respiratory infections. Health officials recommend keeping nails trimmed and using distraction techniques to manage the urge.

Anti-Corruption Activists: Catch the Perpetrators and Pursue the Proceeds of Crime

Anti-corruption activists and legal experts have urged law enforcement to go beyond naming suspects by thoroughly tracing illicit funds and prosecuting all beneficiaries of corruption. During a book review forum in Jakarta, speakers highlighted the need to utilise money laundering laws proactively and to investigate predicate offences. The discussion also raised concerns about the selective use of anti-corruption instruments and the necessity of institutional reform to ensure accountability.

Book Review: Eradicating Corruption While Corrupting: Don't Just Catch the Perpetrators, Chase the Money and the Original Crime

A discussion of a new book argues that Indonesia's anti-corruption efforts must go beyond naming suspects to fully trace illicit financial flows and predicate offences. Legal experts and former officials at the event called for a comprehensive approach, prioritisation of targets, and adherence to constitutional mandates in natural resource management to prevent systemic graft.

Experts Call for Institutional Overhaul and Management Approach in Corruption Eradication

A panel of experts has called for a comprehensive evaluation of Indonesia's anti-corruption institutions, highlighting the need for stronger oversight, limited authority, and a management-based strategy. During a book review event in Jakarta, speakers including former KPK commissioner Saut Situmorang and criminal law expert Chairul Huda debated the fragmentation of investigative powers and the risk of power abuse. The discussion also proposed prioritising law enforcement reform and using financial audits to ensure institutional accountability.

Fire on Mount Gede Remains Uncontained

A wildfire near Kawah Wadon in Mount Gede Pangrango National Park, West Java, remains uncontained, with an estimated 5.8 hectares affected. Firefighting efforts are being hampered by deep peat layers, difficult terrain, and limited water access. Authorities are coordinating with volunteers and local communities to prevent the fire from spreading further.

Tokyo Increases Subsidies for Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Purchases

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has raised subsidies for electric and hybrid vehicle purchases to accelerate the shift away from fossil fuel cars. The new scheme offers up to 1.3 million yen for electric vehicles and 1.15 million yen for hybrids, with additional incentives for renewable energy use and vehicle-to-load capability. The subsidies vary by manufacturer, with domestic brands like Toyota, Nissan, and Honda receiving higher top-ups compared to foreign competitors such as BYD and Tesla.

The Illusion of Peace Under the Shadow of 'Greater Israel' and the Business Trap of New Gaza

The article argues that Israel's accelerated illegal settlement expansion in the West Bank and East Jerusalem exposes the 'Two-State Solution' as a utopian illusion, driven by an ideological ambition for a 'Greater Israel'. It further contends that the 'New Gaza' project and its Board of Peace scheme are merely a business trap designed to consolidate American economic control and pacify Palestinian resistance. The author calls for Muslim unity under a Caliphate as the only viable path to liberate Al-Quds, rejecting any compromise with the occupying entity.

Boost Investment, Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga: Debottlenecking Task Force Completes 124 Company Complaints

The Indonesian government's Debottlenecking Task Force has resolved 124 out of 170 operational complaints from companies, aiming to improve the business climate and support economic growth. Coordinating Minister Airlangga urged issuers to utilise the task force for swift solutions and to uphold performance, governance, and capital market optimisation. The government is also promoting this complaint channel globally through embassies to attract and assist foreign investors.

Poem by Sekolah Rakyat Student Opens Ministry of Social Affairs' 81st Independence Day Commemoration

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs commenced its 81st Independence Day celebrations with a poetry recital by a student from Sekolah Rakyat, a government-run school for underprivileged children. Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf used the occasion to urge staff to foster collaboration and uphold integrity in delivering social programmes. He also highlighted recent poverty reduction figures as evidence of the success of President Prabowo Subianto's data consolidation strategy for targeted social assistance.

Indonesia's Debottlenecking Task Force Resolves 124 Investment Hurdles, Eyes Global Outreach

The Indonesian government's Debottlenecking Task Force has successfully resolved 124 out of 170 reported operational obstacles for companies, according to Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto. The initiative aims to streamline bureaucratic processes and improve the business climate to support sustainable economic growth. In a parallel effort to attract foreign capital, the Ministry of Finance is collaborating with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to promote a similar Government Strategic Program Acceleration Task Force to global investors through Indonesian embassies worldwide.

BPK: Supreme Court Follows Up 96.65 Percent of Audit Recommendations

The Supreme Court has acted upon 96.65 percent of the Audit Board of Indonesia's (BPK) recommendations as of the second semester of 2025, reflecting a strong commitment to improving governance. The BPK also noted the court has maintained an unqualified opinion on its financial reports for 14 consecutive years. The audit body urged continued focus on strengthening internal controls, asset management, and regulatory compliance across related ministries.

Bahlil Meets Purbaya to Discuss Restrictions on Pertalite Purchases

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia met with Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa to discuss making fuel subsidies more targeted. Bahlil stated that the current system allows wealthy individuals, including those in the top income brackets, to benefit from subsidised fuel. The government is seeking a distribution system to ensure the hundreds of trillions of rupiah allocated for subsidies reach the intended recipients.

Bali Records 174 Operational 'Red and White' Village Cooperatives, Mostly Grocery Outlets

Bali's Cooperatives and SMEs Agency reports that 174 Merah Putih Village Cooperatives (KDKMP) are now operational across the island, with the majority running grocery stores. While physical construction of cooperative buildings faces delays due to land and funding issues, officials stress that business activity is not dependent on new structures. The provincial government is urging central authorities to focus on human resource training and capital access to support the cooperatives' development.

Ahead of MSCI Review, Analyst Says Indonesian Stock Market Still in Recovery Phase

Indonesia's stock market remains in a fragile recovery phase ahead of the MSCI index review, with significant foreign investor pressure still evident. An analyst projects a neutral to slightly negative impact from the August review due to a continued freeze on Indonesian stocks, though the risk of weight reduction persists for some shares. Market focus is now on the government's implementation of capital market reforms, as failure could risk a downgrade to Frontier Market status.

Jakarta Considers Removing Bicycle Lanes on Protocol Roads

The Jakarta provincial government is considering the removal of bicycle lanes from several major thoroughfares following public feedback. Governor Pramono Anung stated that a special meeting will be held to decide whether the existing cycling infrastructure should be maintained or repurposed. The current lanes, established under a 2019 gubernatorial regulation, have been criticised as ineffective due to frequent use by motorised vehicles.

idAA+ Rating Affirms Askrindo's Strong Business Fundamentals and Financial Capacity

PT Asuransi Kredit Indonesia (Askrindo) has maintained its idAA+ rating with a stable outlook from Pefindo, reflecting its robust financial health and strong business fundamentals. The rating underscores the state-owned insurer's very strong capacity to meet long-term financial obligations amid a dynamic financial services sector. Askrindo's management highlighted its prudent risk management and strategic role in supporting national financing programmes, including KUR and surety bonds.

Outcry Over Ad-Dhuha Memorisation Challenge for Alcohol Prize, PAN Youth Wing: Public Spaces Must Be Protected!

The youth wing of the National Mandate Party (BM PAN) has strongly condemned a music festival promotion that allegedly used a Quranic verse memorisation challenge as a gimmick to give away alcoholic drinks. Chairman Slamet Ariyadi described the act as excessive and hurtful to religious sensitivities, urging authorities to take action. Police in North Jakarta are currently investigating the event for suspected blasphemy.

Traffic Police Chief Invites Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers to Become Road Safety Pioneers

The head of the Indonesian National Police Traffic Corps has called on online motorcycle taxi drivers to act as partners in promoting road safety. During a meeting with a national drivers' association, he highlighted their daily presence on the roads as a vital link between the police and the public. The initiative aims to leverage the drivers' extensive community interaction to improve traffic safety and incident reporting.

Government Debt Reaches Rp10,293 Trillion, 41% of GDP

Indonesia's central government debt climbed to Rp10,293 trillion as of the end of June 2026, representing 41.26% of gross domestic product. The Ministry of Finance emphasised that the debt is managed prudently and remains well below the legal ceiling of 60% of GDP. The majority of the debt portfolio consists of government securities.

Dharma Jaya pushes for food self-sufficiency in Jakarta, reduces imported cattle reliance

Jakarta's regional-owned enterprise Dharma Jaya is spearheading efforts to achieve food self-sufficiency by strengthening local protein production and developing integrated farming. The initiative aims to reduce the capital's heavy dependence on imported live cattle, which exposes prices to currency fluctuations. The plan includes building a 20-hectare integrated farming zone in Tangerang and optimising local breeder capacity.

Trump Guarded by Avenger Missile System While Golfing in New Jersey

President Donald Trump was provided with heavy security, including an Avenger surface-to-air missile system, during a golf outing at his New Jersey club. The deployment follows multiple assassination attempts against the former president, with NORAD confirming it had intercepted aircraft near the Bedminster course. The visible security escalation underscores ongoing concerns for the safety of high-profile US political figures.

Airlangga: Indonesia's Pertalite and Biodiesel Supply Secure Despite Global Turmoil

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has assured that Indonesia's supply of Pertalite fuel and biodiesel will remain secure until the end of the year. He noted that crude oil purchases are averaging around US$91 per barrel, and the nation's reliance on domestic coal for electricity helps mitigate the impact of global energy price fluctuations. This energy stability has supported Indonesia's economic growth, which reached 5.45 per cent in the first half of the year, placing it among the top performers in ASEAN and the G20.

Foreign Ministry Launches IORA 2026 Task Force to Strengthen Indian Ocean Diplomacy

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has launched a dedicated task force to spearhead its engagement with the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) ahead of key leadership roles. The initiative aims to shift domestic coordination from an ad-hoc basis to a structured, continuous effort to advance national interests in the strategically vital region. The task force will focus on maritime security, the blue economy, and optimising special funding to bolster partnerships across the Indian Ocean rim.

Vessel Carrying Jessica Mila Defies Closure Order to Sail to Padar Island, Sparking Industry Outrage

A tourist boat carrying Indonesian celebrity Jessica Mila and her family sailed to Padar Island despite an official closure due to bad weather, prompting outrage from local boat operators' associations. The vessel only had a permit to sail to Rinca Island, and the associations have demanded strict sanctions against the captain for endangering passenger safety. The Labuan Bajo Port Authority has since suspended the captain's licence.

Benny K. Harman Apologises After Telling Journalists to 'Use Your Brain'

Democratic Party politician Benny K. Harman has issued a public apology after telling journalists to 'use your brain' when they repeatedly asked about former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's attendance at the 2026 MPR Annual Session. Harman explained that his outburst was a spontaneous reaction to persistent questioning despite his clear explanation that Yudhoyono was undergoing medical check-ups in the United States until the end of the month. The incident has drawn attention amid broader concerns over the treatment of journalists in Indonesia.

USK ready to strengthen education collaboration in Aceh

Syiah Kuala University (USK) has expressed its readiness to enhance collaboration with Ar-Raniry State Islamic University (UIN) and the Ministry of Religious Affairs to integrate academic knowledge with national and religious character building in Aceh. The commitment was made following a public lecture by Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar, who highlighted Aceh's vital role in Indonesia's religious history. The initiative aims to develop human resources and position Aceh as a centre for Islamic civilisation.

Black Market for Corruption Information in China: Leaks of Purges Rife on Social Media

A clandestine market for information on China's anti-corruption purges has emerged on social media, challenging President Xi Jinping's sweeping disciplinary campaign. Anonymous accounts are reportedly selling tips on upcoming targets, with leaks valuable enough to influence stock market trading. The phenomenon highlights deep-rooted corruption and the opacity of the political system, despite harsh crackdowns on whistleblowers.

New Threat from China: Microsoft Warns of Storm-1175 Ransomware Group

Microsoft has identified a new ransomware variant, StormEncryptor, deployed by the Chinese threat actor Storm-1175. The group, previously known for using Medusa ransomware, is exploiting a recently patched vulnerability in N-able N-central software to gain initial access to systems. The rapid attack chain, from initial breach to data exfiltration and encryption, can be completed in a matter of days, prompting urgent calls for system administrators to apply security updates.

Pramono Anung Condemns Quran Memorisation Challenge Offering Alcohol at Jakarta Music Festival

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has strongly condemned a viral incident at a music festival where a booth challenged attendees to memorise Quranic verses in exchange for alcoholic beverages. Pramono described the act as a desecration of religious life and has instructed his welfare assistant to coordinate with authorities for firm action. The incident, which occurred at 'The Sounds Project' in Ancol, sparked outrage after a video circulated showing a participant reciting Surah Adh-Dhuha to win the prize.

Newport Director Apologises, Admits Negligence During The Sounds Project Festival

Newport's director has issued a public apology following the circulation of a video showing inappropriate activity at the brand's booth during The Sounds Project music festival. The company admitted to lapses in supervision, stating the incident was a spontaneous act by visitors and not part of a planned promotion. Newport has taken internal disciplinary action and pledged to implement stricter operational guidelines to respect religious and cultural values.

Newport Apologises After Quran Recitation Swapped for Alcohol Promotion

Newport's management has issued a public apology after a viral video showed a woman reciting the Quran in exchange for alcohol at a music festival in Jakarta. The company claims the incident was a spontaneous act by a visitor and not a planned promotion, acknowledging a lapse in supervision. The case has sparked outrage and led to police reports from Muslim advocacy groups alleging blasphemy.

Minister of Religious Affairs: UIN Ar-Raniry Aceh Must Become a Centre of Modern Islamic Civilisation

Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar has called on UIN Ar-Raniry in Banda Aceh to strengthen its role as a global centre for modern Islamic civilisation and scientific development. He highlighted Aceh's strategic historical and geographical position, arguing that Indonesia is the safest and most suitable place to adopt and advance Islamic knowledge. The Minister also urged the academic community to use the Quran as a source of scientific inspiration and to pioneer new methodologies.

Kiosk in Yogyakarta's Kota Gede Destroyed by Fire, 54 LPG Canisters Lost

A kiosk selling 3-kilogram LPG canisters and mixed rice meals in Kota Gede, Yogyakarta, was gutted by fire in the early hours of Monday. The blaze destroyed 54 LPG canisters along with other business equipment, including a showcase and freezer. Police are investigating the cause of the fire, which was first spotted by a local resident.

Pati Regent: Local Farmers' Eggs Prioritised for Free Nutritious Meal Programme

The acting Regent of Pati has mandated that all eggs used in the local Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme must be sourced from local poultry farmers, with a fixed price of Rp26,000 per kilogram. The directive follows protests by farmers over plummeting egg prices and rising feed costs, and aims to stabilise the local market. The local government will monitor compliance and facilitate direct communication between farmer associations and the nutritional service units.

Advancing Education in West Nias Requires Collaboration from All Parties, Says Deputy Governor Surya

North Sumatra Deputy Governor Surya has stressed that improving education quality in West Nias, a disadvantaged region, demands collective commitment and collaboration. During a visit to a local state senior high school, he called on local government, teachers, and stakeholders to work together to overcome limitations. He also urged educators to perform their duties with sincerity, acting as both teachers and parental figures to shape students' character.

Destry Damayanti Seen as Market Friendly, Could Ease Uncertainty

The nomination of Destry Damayanti as the sole candidate for Bank Indonesia Governor is viewed as a positive market signal. Her extensive experience and market-friendly reputation are expected to reduce uncertainty and restore confidence in the rupiah and domestic financial markets. The market now awaits a smooth fit and proper test process in the House of Representatives.

Coordinating Minister Pratikno Denies Illness and Resignation Rumours

Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno has refuted rumours that he is ill and planning to resign from President Prabowo's cabinet. He stated he is currently in Bromo coordinating efforts to extinguish forest and land fires. Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi also confirmed Pratikno is in good health and dismissed the resignation claims as unfounded.

KAI Apologises for Access by KAI Disruption, System Recovery Underway

Indonesia's state railway operator PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) has issued an apology following a disruption to its Access by KAI digital services. The company is conducting system maintenance and recovery, with online ticket purchases temporarily unavailable. Customers can still buy tickets offline at station counters or via the contact centre.

Minister Amran Threatens to Revoke Business Licences for Feed and Egg Price Manipulators

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has issued a stern warning that the government will revoke the business licences of any companies found manipulating feed and egg prices. The move aims to stabilise the market and protect national poultry farmers from unfair practices. The government has also deployed a task force to investigate suspected violations and mandated that state food stations absorb local farmers' egg production.

KP2MI Opens First Phase of Asta Mandala SMK Go Global Training Registration

The Ministry for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (KP2MI) has opened registration for the first phase of the Asta Mandala SMK Go Global training programme, aiming to prepare 500,000 young Indonesians for international labour markets. The initiative, part of a presidential directive, will provide technical skills, language training, and cultural understanding to enhance the competitiveness of Indonesian workers abroad. The programme targets specific sectors and destination countries, with the first registration window open from 12 to 16 August 2026.

Megawati Inaugurates Taruna Merah Putih Leadership Under Diah Pikatan Haprani

PDI Perjuangan chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri has inaugurated the new central board of the party's youth wing, Taruna Merah Putih (TMP), for the 2025–2030 term. The organisation is now led by House of Representatives member Diah Pikatan Haprani, who aims to make politics more appealing to young people. With millennial and Gen Z voters projected to make up 56 per cent of the electorate by 2029, the new leadership plans to focus on political education and creating a comfortable space for youth engagement.

Pratikno Reviews Bromo Fire: Extinguishing Efforts to Be Completed as Soon as Possible

Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno has reported that the forest and land fires in the Mount Bromo area have been reduced to just two remaining hotspots. During an on-site inspection, he emphasised that extinguishing these final hotspots and preventing new ones is a top priority, following a direct order from President Prabowo Subianto. The fire, which began on 3 August, has affected 899 hectares and prompted the temporary closure of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park to tourists.

Tangerang City Among Top Six in National PTSP Assessment, Team Conducts Field Verification

Tangerang City has been selected as one of the top six nominees for a national award evaluating One-Stop Integrated Services (PTSP) performance. A verification team from the Ministry of Investment conducted an on-site inspection to validate the city's service quality. The assessment aims to promote transparency and improve public service delivery, with the final ranking to be announced next month.

Alleged Blasphemy at Music Festival Leads to Multiple Reports

The Muslim Legal Team has filed a police report against five parties, including event organisers and a female attendee, for alleged blasphemy at 'The Sounds Project' music festival in North Jakarta. The incident reportedly involved the recitation of Quranic verses in exchange for a bottle of alcohol. The complainants are demanding the revocation of operational permits for the organiser and the involved alcohol producer.

Ojol to Be Treated as Micro Enterprises in Digital Transport Regulation

The Indonesian government is finalising a presidential regulation that will classify online motorcycle taxi (ojol) drivers as micro-enterprises. This status aims to provide them with economic benefits, access to government programmes, and the flexibility to pursue other business opportunities. The regulation is expected to be completed within a week, with only a few articles remaining under synchronisation.

KPK Prosecutor: 27 Parties and 313 Special Hajj Organisers Received Funds from Hajj Corruption Case

A KPK prosecutor has alleged that 27 parties and 313 Special Hajj Organisers (PIHK) received illicit funds from the alleged corruption of Indonesia's 2023–2024 hajj quota. The defendants, including former Minister Yaqut Cholil Quomas, are accused of unlawfully allocating additional special hajj quotas and charging acceleration fees, causing state losses of Rp622.09 billion. The case highlights the scale of alleged graft within the management of the country's hajj pilgrimage operations.

Boy in Buleleng Dies with Suspected Rabies, Dog Had Bitten Six Others

A seven-year-old boy in Buleleng, Bali, has died with suspected rabies after his family failed to report a dog bite. The same stray dog had previously bitten six other residents, all of whom received post-exposure prophylaxis. Local authorities have expressed regret over the lack of reporting, which they say is crucial for rapid case handling and outbreak control.

RANS Reveals Use of IPO Funds, Nagita: For Debt Repayment

PT RANS Entertainment Indonesia Tbk has disclosed the allocation of its initial public offering proceeds, with a portion directed towards settling outstanding debts. The company, owned by celebrity Raffi Ahmad, also announced a strategic partnership with PT Mayora Indah Tbk to leverage its intellectual property. The remaining IPO funds are earmarked for long-term growth initiatives including concerts, acquisitions, and digital ventures.

Private University Lecturer Challenges Higher Education Funding Law in Constitutional Court

A private university lecturer has filed a judicial review with the Constitutional Court, arguing that the current Higher Education Law fails to ensure equitable government funding for private institutions. The petitioner contends that the state is constitutionally obligated to establish a fair funding system that supports both public and private universities. The court has requested the petitioner to strengthen the legal arguments, particularly regarding the link to the constitutional mandate on education funding.

Education Ministry Strengthens Vocational Teacher Competencies to Meet Industry Demands

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has launched a new upskilling programme for vocational teachers to align their skills with rapid technological advancements and industry needs. Officials stressed that continuous training is now an obligation, particularly in response to the swift evolution of artificial intelligence. The initiative also aims to foster innovation in schools, such as converting plastic waste into furniture materials.

BI: June 2026 Retail Sales Contract 3 Percent, July Projected to Grow 0.9 Percent

Bank Indonesia reported that the Real Sales Index contracted by 3 percent year-on-year in June 2026, an improvement from the previous month's 3.9 percent decline. The central bank projects retail sales will return to positive territory in July 2026, growing 0.9 percent year-on-year, supported by demand during the national religious holidays and school break period.

Culture Ministry: Culture unites the nation and interfaith communities

The Ministry of Culture has emphasised the role of culture in uniting the nation and strengthening interfaith harmony, urging Indonesians to emulate the inclusive legacy of the Wali Songo. The remarks were made during the 2026 Nusantara Cultural Festival in Kudus, Central Java, which aims to revive cultural appreciation among the youth. Organisers highlighted Kudus's historical significance and traditions, such as abstaining from beef, as symbols of religious tolerance.

Public Works Minister Praises Jakarta's SRT 4 Facilities Despite Limited Land

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo has commended the facilities at Sekolah Rakyat Terintegrasi (SRT) 4 in Jakarta, noting that the development has been optimised to function effectively despite land constraints. The integrated boarding school, which began operations in June 2026, currently serves hundreds of students and is part of President Prabowo Subianto's initiative to break the cycle of poverty through education. The minister assured that further improvements would be made in phases to support the growing student body.

Prosecutors: Hajj Quota Manipulation Left Thousands of Pilgrims Unable to Depart

Indonesian prosecutors have detailed how the alleged corruption of additional hajj quotas for 2023-2024 by former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas resulted in thousands of eligible pilgrims being denied departure. The indictment reveals that quota allocation decisions were altered, allowing private hajj operators to freely sell quotas and charge acceleration fees. The case has reportedly caused state losses of approximately IDR 622 billion.

Here Are the Vehicles That Will Not Be Affected by Pertalite Fuel Restrictions

Indonesia's Energy Ministry has clarified that motorcycles will be exempt from upcoming restrictions on subsidised Pertalite petrol. The policy will specifically target four-wheeled vehicles, particularly luxury cars deemed ineligible for the subsidy. The government is currently studying a phased implementation, potentially limiting access for the wealthiest households in deciles 9 and 10.

Government Ensures No PPPK Employees Will Be Laid Off

The Indonesian government has pledged that no contract-based civil servants (PPPK) will be laid off, outlining three fiscal schemes to help regional administrations meet their salary obligations. Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian detailed measures including budget efficiency, disbursement of outstanding revenue-sharing funds, and additional central government grants. The total support package is valued at nearly Rp19 trillion, aimed at securing payroll for PPPK and part-time staff.

Attorney General Urges Staff to Uphold Integrity and Live Modestly

Attorney General ST Burhanuddin has called on newly appointed senior prosecutors to maintain personal integrity and adopt a simple lifestyle, emphasising that regional officials reflect the institution's image. He also instructed the new High Prosecutors to build solid synergy with local leadership forums while preserving institutional independence. The directives were issued during the swearing-in ceremony for 15 High Prosecutors and other echelon II officials in Jakarta.

Muslim Legal Team Reports Five Parties over Quran Memorisation Challenge with Alcohol Prize

The Tim Hukum Muslim has filed a police report against five parties, including a festival organiser and an alcohol brand, over a viral challenge that offered alcoholic drinks as a reward for reciting Quranic verses. The incident occurred at a sponsor booth during The Sounds Project music festival, sparking widespread offence among Muslims. The legal team is pursuing criminal charges under the new Criminal Code and demanding the revocation of business licences for those involved.

PBNU Urges Ministry of Religious Affairs to Tighten Islamic Boarding School Permits to Prevent Violence

The Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU) has called on the Ministry of Religious Affairs to implement stricter licensing and more intensive supervision of Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) to prevent violence. The recommendation emerged from a series of halaqah forums under the 'Pesantrenku Aman' (My Safe Pesantren) national movement. PBNU also urged all pesantren to undergo internal transformation to ensure a safe and comfortable educational environment.

Minister urges universities to boost talent in remote areas

A government minister has called on Hasanuddin University to act as a centre of excellence in eastern Indonesia to prevent the region from falling behind the west. He highlighted the need for high-quality human resources to independently manage local potential, citing instances of illegal foreign business activities in remote areas. The minister stressed that universities must not only educate but also provide solutions to community problems, framing this as a shared responsibility between the government and the education sector.

Aftermarket Industry Captures Shift in Consumer Vehicle Care Habits

PT Difan Prima Paint has launched four new Diton-branded vehicle care products at GIIAS 2026, targeting a growing consumer preference for practical, do-it-yourself maintenance solutions. The new range includes a first-to-market aerosol polishing compound, alongside paint remover, tyre shine, and interior polish. The company says the expansion responds to a broader shift in consumer behaviour towards comprehensive, easy-to-use vehicle upkeep beyond traditional painting.

Government Plans to Restrict Pertalite Sales to Ensure Targeted Subsidies

The Indonesian government is finalising plans to restrict subsidised Pertalite fuel purchases for high-income groups to ensure subsidies are better targeted. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stated that luxury vehicle owners should not benefit from state subsidies, while motorcycle users will be exempt from the restrictions. The policy aims to streamline energy subsidy allocation without raising subsidised fuel prices.

Alcohol Producer, Event Organiser, and MC Reported to Police Over Qur'an Memorisation Challenge

An Indonesian Muslim advocacy group has filed a police report against an alcohol brand, event organisers, and MCs following a controversial marketing stunt at a Jakarta music festival. The incident involved a spontaneous audience challenge where a woman recited a Qur'anic verse in exchange for a bottle of alcohol, sparking widespread accusations of blasphemy. Police are investigating the matter, while the involved parties have issued apologies, claiming the act was unplanned and outside their official direction.

OJK Urges MSCI for Fair Assessment Ahead of August 2026 Index Review

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has called on MSCI to deliver a fair and objective assessment of the country's capital market transparency during its upcoming index review. The regulator believes significant improvements in data transparency warrant the lifting of a freeze on the foreign inclusion factor for certain Indonesian securities. Both the OJK and the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) are cautiously optimistic, predicting a less severe rebalancing impact than in previous periods.

Pramono Considers Scrapping Jakarta's Cycle Lanes, a Legacy of Foke and Anies

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung is considering removing cycle lanes from the capital's main roads following public complaints about their low usage and frequent encroachment by motor vehicles. The administration plans to hold a special meeting to decide the fate of the lanes, which were established under previous governors Fauzi Bowo and Anies Baswedan. The existing network, regulated by a 2019 gubernatorial decree, covers 17 corridors but has been widely criticised as ineffective.

Quran Memorisation Challenge for Alcohol at Concert Reported to Jakarta Police

A promotion offering alcohol in exchange for reciting Quranic verses at a Jakarta music festival has been reported to the police, sparking outrage among Muslim groups. The advocate representing the complainants has filed a report against five parties, including the event organiser and the alcohol brand Newport, citing blasphemy laws. Police are investigating the incident, while the festival organiser and Newport have both condemned the unsanctioned activity and apologised.

Luhut Claims Data Integration Could Save Rp1,200 Trillion

Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, Chairman of the Digital Transformation Acceleration Committee, has stated that the government could save up to Rp1,200 trillion through data integration. He noted that 94 per cent of government systems are now integrated, enabling more efficient data-based decision-making. The initiative is expected to streamline social assistance distribution and improve public services, with a national rollout planned before October 2026.

AESI Ungkap Sejumlah Kendala Pengembang PLTS yang Perlu Segera Diatasi

Asosiasi Energi Surya Indonesia (AESI) mengungkapkan berbagai hambatan yang dihadapi pengembang PLTS, termasuk perizinan OSS, keterbatasan lahan, dan beban Pajak Bumi dan Bangunan. Kendala perizinan mulai terurai setelah terbitnya Peraturan Menteri Nomor 5 Tahun 2025 yang memberikan kepastian waktu persetujuan dokumen. Regulasi baru ini diharapkan dapat mempercepat pengembangan proyek energi surya di Indonesia.

Ramp Door of KMP Perkasa Prima V Breaks at Gilimanuk, Cement Tanker Trapped

The landing ramp of the ferry KMP Perkasa Prima V broke while unloading at Gilimanuk Port, Jembrana, causing a cement tanker truck to become stuck. No casualties were reported in the incident, which occurred on Monday afternoon. Authorities used an excavator to free the trapped vehicle and subsequently drove over the damaged ramp door to extract four other trucks still inside the vessel.

Vietnam Begins Construction of Domestically Built Anti-Submarine Frigate

Vietnam has commenced building its largest and most advanced anti-submarine frigate at a domestic shipyard, aiming to bolster its naval capabilities amid rising tensions in the South China Sea. The project is part of Hanoi's broader strategy to develop a self-reliant defence industry and reduce its dependence on imported military equipment, primarily from Russia. The announcement coincided with a visit by Vietnam's president to Australia, where both nations agreed to expand military cooperation and maritime security support.

Askrindo maintains idAA+ credit rating with stable outlook

State-owned credit insurer PT Askrindo has retained its idAA+ rating with a stable outlook from Pefindo, reflecting solid business fundamentals amid economic headwinds. The rating underscores the company's strong capacity to meet long-term financial obligations and its disciplined risk management. Askrindo continues to play a key role in national financing through programmes such as KUR and various guarantee services.

Indonesian Sugar Producer GULA to Acquire Major Factory and Build Two New Plants

PT Aman Agrindo Tbk (GULA) is advancing three strategic projects to boost its contribution to Indonesia's national sugar supply. The initiatives include acquiring an existing brown sugar factory in Sragen, Central Java, for an estimated IDR 350 billion, and constructing new facilities in Pandeglang, Banten, and Riau. The expansion is largely funded by the company's 2022 initial public offering proceeds.

Government to Trial CNG as 3 kg LPG Alternative Next Week

The Indonesian government will begin trials next week for compressed natural gas (CNG) cylinders designed to replace the heavily imported 3 kg LPG canisters. The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources claims the new scheme could reduce state subsidy costs by 30 to 40 per cent by utilising domestic gas sources. The trial aims to ensure public safety before a potential nationwide rollout.

Indonesia to classify ride-hailing bike drivers as micro-entrepreneurs

The Indonesian government is finalising a regulation to designate ride-hailing motorcycle drivers as micro-entrepreneurs, a move intended to provide access to MSME incentives while preserving their operational flexibility. The new status will not impose income tax on drivers, as their average annual turnover falls well below the taxable threshold of Rp500 million. Officials hope the policy will enhance drivers' economic capacity and financial independence, while also ensuring the sustainability of the broader digital transport ecosystem.

DPR Finalises Preparations for 2026 MPR Annual Session and Joint DPR-DPD Session

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) is in the final stages of preparation for the MPR Annual Session and the Joint Session of the DPR and DPD, scheduled for 14 August 2026. Acting Secretary General Suprihartini confirmed that a full rehearsal is planned for 13 August, with the main agenda designed to conclude before Friday prayers. Coordination is ongoing with security forces and protocol teams to confirm the attendance of VVIP guests, including former presidents and vice presidents.

Strait of Hormuz Negotiations Stalled by Trump's Compensation Demands

Iran has set preconditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, including an end to US sanctions and compensation for war damages. President Trump has countered with his own demands for compensation from Tehran, citing decades of alleged harm and the deaths of US personnel. The escalating tit-for-tat claims are complicating efforts to restore safe passage through the critical oil transit chokepoint.

Purbaya backs Destry Damayanti as BI Governor candidate

Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has expressed strong support for Destry Damayanti's nomination as the permanent Governor of Bank Indonesia, citing their effective professional collaboration during his tenure at the Deposit Insurance Corporation. The endorsement follows President Prabowo Subianto's submission of a presidential letter to the House of Representatives, proposing Damayanti, who currently serves as acting governor, to succeed Perry Warjiyo. Damayanti brings over three decades of economic and financial sector experience to the role, having steered monetary policy through recent global disruptions.

Free Nutritious Meal Programme for Outermost Islands in Simeulue to Begin October 2026

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) in Simeulue Regency, Aceh, has announced that the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme will be rolled out to two schools on the region's outermost islands starting in October 2026. The delay is due to the logistical challenges of reaching the remote schools, which require a two-to-three-hour boat journey from the sub-district centre. The programme's implementation is contingent on the construction of special kitchens to ensure food quality is maintained during delivery.

Minister Yandri Recommends Village-Based Solutions for Agrarian Conflicts in Forest Areas

Minister of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions Yandri Susanto has proposed a series of solutions to address agrarian conflicts affecting villages within or bordering forest zones. Data reveals 34,323 villages and approximately 72.28 million residents are impacted by these disputes. The minister emphasised a coordinated, inter-ministerial approach to resolve land tenure issues while ensuring the restoration of village governance and livelihoods.

BI records stable retail sales performance for June 2026

Bank Indonesia reported that retail sales performance remained relatively stable in June 2026, with the Real Sales Index contracting by 3 percent year-on-year, an improvement from the previous month's 3.9 percent contraction. Growth was supported by annual increases in sales of spare parts and accessories, other household equipment, and other goods. On a monthly basis, retail sales rebounded to grow 0.7 percent, reversing the contraction recorded in May.

PBNU Chairman Affirms 35th Congress Will Focus on Programmes and Leadership Direction

Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Chairman Yahya Cholil Staquf has stated that the organisation's 35th Congress will prioritise discussing future programmes and leadership direction. The congress, scheduled for August 2026 in Jombang, East Java, will serve as the key forum to determine the agenda for the next five years. Gus Yahya also noted that NU branches in South Kalimantan have requested he stand for re-election as chairman.

Quran Teacher in Serang Arrested for Allegedly Molesting 9-Year-Old Student

A 44-year-old Quran teacher in Serang has been arrested for allegedly molesting his nine-year-old student on two separate occasions. The suspect reportedly exploited his knowledge of the victim's family routine, entering the home in the early morning while the child's father was away fishing. Police have charged the man under Indonesia's new Criminal Code for child sexual abuse.

Pertalite Purchases to Be Restricted, Purbaya: We Are Targeting the Upper Class

The Indonesian government plans to restrict subsidised Pertalite fuel purchases to ensure they are better targeted, with Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stating the policy will specifically prevent the wealthy from using the cheaper fuel. The proposed scheme would limit consumption for the top two economic deciles, leveraging existing government systems to implement the restrictions. The move is expected to reduce the state budget's subsidy burden, which has already been trimmed to Rp 25.14 trillion for 2026.

Protected Forest in South Sulawesi Turned into Illegal Plantation, Three Arrested After Planting 1,500 Pepper Trees

Authorities in South Sulawesi have arrested three individuals for illegally occupying and cultivating a protected forest area in East Luwu Regency. The suspects had cleared 1.5 hectares of land and planted approximately 1,500 pepper trees after conducting an informal, illegal transaction to acquire the plot from a previous encroacher. The Ministry of Forestry emphasised that such enforcement actions aim to sever the chain of illegal land trading that fuels widespread forest degradation.

Residents Cross Batang Belimbing River by Motorbike as Bridge Repairs Continue

Residents in Padang, West Sumatra, are using a river crossing as a temporary route while a vital bridge undergoes rehabilitation. The bridge was damaged by a natural disaster in November 2025 and is now being rebuilt by the city government. The reconstruction project is scheduled to last five months with a budget of Rp8.8 billion.

ASEAN's Plan to Confront the Growing Threat of Cyber Fraud

Southeast Asian nations are shifting from isolated law enforcement efforts to a coordinated regional strategy against international cyber fraud cartels, which are now viewed as a threat to economic security. Recent bilateral agreements, such as those between Thailand and Myanmar, and proposals for a joint ASEAN task force signal a new level of commitment to dismantle these operations. The United Nations estimates global losses from cyber fraud reached up to $114.1 billion in 2025, with many operations based in the region, prompting sanctions from the US and EU against major conglomerates.

Mount Rinjani National Park Office confirms wildfire extinguished

A wildfire that scorched 1.6 hectares of surface vegetation near a camp on Mount Rinjani has been successfully extinguished, according to the Mount Rinjani National Park Office. Firefighters and a joint team brought the blaze under control on the same evening it was reported. Authorities are intensifying patrols and public awareness campaigns to prevent future fires in the protected area.

Quran Memorisation Contest with Alcohol Prize Sparks Outrage, IHW Calls for Clarification

Indonesia Halal Watch (IHW) has expressed deep concern over a viral video showing a promotional event that used memorisation of the Surah Ad-Dhuha as a challenge, with alcoholic beverages offered as the prize. The organisation stated that if the footage is genuine, the act is highly inappropriate and has offended the religious sensitivities of the Muslim community. IHW has called for tabayyun, or verification, and intends to seek direct clarification from the event organisers and the brand owner.

Trump's Son-in-Law Accuses Netanyahu of Obstructing US Plan for Gaza

Sharp disagreements have reportedly emerged between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Jared Kushner, son-in-law and advisor to US President Donald Trump, over a US-backed peace plan for Gaza. Kushner has directly accused Netanyahu of hindering the proposed roadmap for post-war governance in the Palestinian enclave. The dispute highlights a growing rift between Washington's push for a swift political transition and Israel's insistence on stringent security preconditions, including full demilitarisation.

Danantara Works on 26 Downstreaming Projects Worth Rp225 Trillion, Absorbing 37,833 Workers

Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund Danantara is advancing 26 strategic downstreaming projects across the archipelago with a combined investment value of Rp225 trillion. The projects, spanning mining, energy, and agriculture, are expected to create 37,833 direct jobs and are being rolled out in two phases starting in early 2026. Officials stress that the initiative aims to structurally transform the economy by adding domestic value to raw commodities and ensuring local communities benefit from the investment.

Parliamentary Press Corps Outraged After Democrat's Benny Harman Snaps at Journalist: 'Do You Have a Brain?'

The Parliamentary Press Corps (KWP) has strongly condemned Democrat Party Deputy Chairman Benny K. Harman for making disparaging remarks towards a journalist. Harman snapped at a reporter who sought clarification on former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's absence from a state function, questioning the journalist's intelligence. The KWP has demanded a personal apology and warned that the matter could be referred to the House Ethics Council if no apology is forthcoming.

Xpeng's After-Sales Network Expands into Central Java via Semarang

Xpeng Indonesia, under Erajaya Active Lifestyle, has inaugurated its first 3S (Sales, Service, Spare Parts) centre in Central Java, located in West Semarang. The facility aims to provide integrated after-sales support and easier access for electric vehicle customers in the region. The expansion is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the EV ecosystem and customer confidence outside major metropolitan areas.

Central Jakarta Bapas urges public to end stigma against ex-convicts

The Central Jakarta Correctional Centre (Bapas) has called on the public to eliminate the stigma against former prisoners on conditional release, emphasising that social acceptance is crucial for their successful reintegration and independent living. Officials highlighted that many ex-convicts face economic, educational, and social challenges upon release, and rejection can lead to disorientation and a desire to return to prison. Bapas is collaborating with various stakeholders, including government ministries and community leaders, to provide empowerment programmes, job training, and financial literacy to prevent recidivism.

CATL and BYD Race to Develop Solid-State Batteries by 2027

Chinese electric vehicle battery giants CATL and BYD are competing to pioneer solid-state battery technology, with both targeting small-scale trial production by 2027. The new batteries promise higher energy density and improved safety compared to current liquid-electrolyte cells. Initial commercial applications are likely to be limited to luxury EVs, with mass adoption not expected before 2030.

Bali Immigration Inspects 66 Foreign Nationals for Visa and Residency Violations

Bali immigration authorities have inspected 66 foreign nationals for various violations, including suspected misuse of residence permits and overstaying, during a recent operation. The enforcement sweep, which utilized an integrated digital data system, covered multiple jurisdictions including Denpasar and Ngurah Rai, with officials also urging local businesses to comply with mandatory foreigner reporting applications. The individuals are currently under further investigation and may face administrative actions such as deportation.

Former Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad Sentenced to Death in Absentia

A Syrian court has sentenced former president Bashar Al-Assad and his brother Maher to death in absentia for crimes against humanity. The Supreme Court convicted Assad on charges including premeditated murder, torture, and kidnapping. The verdict comes months after Assad fled the country following a major offensive by opposition forces.

MPR Deputy Speaker Highlights Illegal Tree Felling at Bandung Padel Court

MPR Deputy Speaker Eddy Soeparno has condemned the illegal felling of 10 trees in Bandung to make way for a commercial padel court, calling for stricter legal enforcement. He urged the inclusion of stronger tree protection measures in the ongoing revision of the environmental law. Soeparno praised the Bandung city government's swift response, suggesting it serve as a model for other regions.

KuCoin Secures ISO 22301:2019 Certification, Strengthening Operational Resilience

Cryptocurrency exchange KuCoin has obtained the ISO 22301:2019 Business Continuity Management Systems certification, reinforcing its commitment to service continuity and operational reliability. The certification addresses the critical need for uninterrupted service in the 24/7 digital asset market, ensuring the platform can withstand and recover from disruptions. This achievement bolsters KuCoin's global trust framework alongside its existing ISO 27001 and SOC 2 Type II certifications.

Philippine VP Duterte hit with criminal charge over Marcos 'threat'

Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte faces a criminal charge of 'grave threats' over an alleged assassination plot against President Ferdinand Marcos, filed amid her ongoing Senate impeachment trial. The Department of Justice insists the criminal case can proceed concurrently with the impeachment proceedings, a view supported by legal experts. A conviction could result in a jail term and, combined with the impeachment trial, threatens to end her political career and planned 2028 presidential bid.

War Deepens Iran's Economic Crisis, Middle Class Increasingly Squeezed

The ongoing conflict has drastically worsened Iran's pre-existing economic woes, pushing inflation towards 69% and causing food prices to skyrocket. An estimated 4 million additional Iranians have fallen into poverty, with the middle class now joining low-income households in struggling to afford basic necessities. Economists warn that without restoring confidence and addressing structural issues, short-term government interventions will fail to provide a lasting solution.

Tourism Ministry Supports Development of Parapuar and Golo Mori

Indonesia's Tourism Ministry is backing the accelerated development of the Parapuar and Golo Mori tourism zones in Labuan Bajo to boost quality and investment. Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana reviewed infrastructure needs, including roads and water supply, while emphasising sustainable growth. The initiative aims to enhance local economic benefits alongside cultural and environmental preservation.

Pramono Receives Many Suggestions to Remove Cycle Lanes: Will Be Discussed Specifically

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has acknowledged receiving numerous public suggestions to remove cycle lanes on the capital's main roads, citing underutilisation and encroachment by motorcyclists. The Jakarta provincial government will hold a special meeting to evaluate whether the cycling facilities should be retained or modified. Pramono, a cyclist himself, noted he is paying close attention to the matter.

MSME Minister: Digital Transport Perpres to Deliver Economic Benefits for Ojol

Minister of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Maman Abdurrahman has stated that the forthcoming Presidential Regulation on the Digital Transport Ecosystem will provide economic benefits for online motorcycle taxi drivers (ojol). The regulation aims to maintain a healthy ecosystem while creating opportunities for drivers to expand into other business sectors. The government is also coordinating with app operators to develop programmes that enhance the welfare of ojol across Indonesia.

BMKG Warns of 4-Metre High Waves in West Nias Waters on 14-15 August

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued an early warning for high waves potentially reaching four metres in the waters west of the Nias Islands, North Sumatra, on 14-15 August 2026. The phenomenon is driven by warm sea surface temperature anomalies in the Indian Ocean west of Sumatra, which are also increasing evaporation and contributing to localised rain cloud formation. The agency has urged fishermen and vessel operators to remain vigilant and monitor weather updates to avoid maritime accidents.

National Police Chief Meets Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs and State Institution Leaders to Synergise in Facing National Challenges

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo attended a luncheon with Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago and other top state officials in East Jakarta. The gathering aimed to strengthen inter-institutional coordination and unity in addressing strategic national agendas. The leaders emphasised that solid synergy across political, defence, security, legal, and intelligence sectors is essential for maintaining government stability and fostering a conducive environment for national development.

Deputy Minister Urges Mandailing Natal Regent to Accelerate 'Sekolah Rakyat' Proposal

Deputy Minister of Social Affairs Agus Jabo Priyono has urged the Mandailing Natal Regency to expedite the administrative requirements for establishing a permanent 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's School). He also stressed the importance of continuously updating the National Single Social and Economic Data (DTSEN) to ensure accurate targeting of government programmes. The regency is currently finalising an alternative land location for the school, aiming to be included in the third phase of construction scheduled to begin in October 2026.

'Milk Tea Meetings' Replace Formal Gatherings for Multi-Ethnic Communities in Xinjiang

In China's Xinjiang region, a community initiative is using casual 'milk tea meetings' to replace formal bureaucratic gatherings, fostering dialogue among residents from nine different ethnic groups. The relaxed setting encourages locals to voice concerns, from child safety to economic hardships, with authorities responding by installing swimming pools and supporting local craftspeople. The model, which has resolved nearly 1,000 livelihood issues in Yining city alone this year, is part of a broader national push for grassroots social governance.

Sleman Railway Gate Vandal Also Damaged Flag in Bantul

Police in Bantul, Yogyakarta, have escalated their investigation into the vandalism of a flagpole and the Indonesian flag in Kasihan, identifying the suspect as the same individual who damaged a railway crossing barrier in Sleman. The suspect, a university student from outside the region, is currently detained at Gamping police station and is believed to have been intoxicated during the incidents. Authorities are continuing to probe the exact motive behind the acts of vandalism.

YPMAK Scholarship Prepares Mimika Human Resources for Regional Development

The Amungme and Kamoro Community Development Foundation (YPMAK) has dispatched 13 students to Yogyakarta's UPN Veteran University on full scholarships. The programme aims to equip young Papuans with engineering skills to support the development of Central Papua. University officials have pledged comprehensive academic and pastoral support to ensure the students graduate and return to contribute to their home region.

AGO Collaborates with PPATK to Trace Money in Febrie Money Laundering Case

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office (Kejagung) is working with the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (PPATK) to trace the flow of funds in the money laundering case involving former junior attorney general for special crimes, Febrie Adriansyah. The investigation, which has expanded to include another suspect, Nurman Herin, stems from the earlier discovery of 74 kilograms of gold bars and hundreds of billions of rupiah in cash. Authorities are also examining witnesses from Bank Indonesia to understand operational procedures related to money changers.

Government Reviews Restrictions on Subsidised Pertalite for Wealthy Deciles 9-10

The Indonesian government is considering a policy to restrict the purchase of subsidised Pertalite fuel for upper-class households classified in deciles 9 and 10. The plan, discussed by the Finance and Energy Ministers, aims to ensure that the substantial energy subsidy budget is better targeted towards those in genuine need. Officials confirmed that motorcycles will be exempt from the proposed restrictions.

Bali Immigration Detains 66 Unruly Foreign Nationals in One Week

Immigration authorities in Bali have detained 66 foreign nationals from 27 countries over the past week for various immigration violations. The crackdown, conducted by the Dharma Dewata Patrol Task Force, utilised an integrated digital data system to validate documents and detect infractions more swiftly. Officials are also urging local businesses and the public to assist in monitoring foreign nationals through a dedicated reporting application.

Indonesia targets AI investment via ASOCIO Digital Summit 2026 in Jakarta

Indonesia aims to leverage its large digital market to attract investment, technology transfer, and talent development during the ASOCIO Digital & AI Summit 2026 in Jakarta. The summit will convene technology stakeholders from 25 Asia-Oceania economies, with organisers emphasising the need to convert the country's market size into tangible economic value. Industry leaders stress that Indonesia must move beyond being a mere consumer of technology to securing a greater share of the regional value chain in artificial intelligence.

Iran Sets Six Conditions for US Before Reopening Strait of Hormuz

Iran has publicly listed six demands that the United States must meet before it will reopen the Strait of Hormuz, signalling a hardening stance in ongoing negotiations. The conditions, outlined by an adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader, extend beyond a recent memorandum of understanding and include ending military threats, lifting sanctions, and paying war reparations. Analysts suggest the move may be a negotiating tactic to delay a final agreement and strengthen Iran's bargaining position.

Pratikno Denies Illness and Resignation Rumours as Menko PMK

Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno has dismissed rumours that he is ill and planning to resign. He stated he is actively working, currently coordinating efforts to tackle forest and land fires in the Mount Bromo area. Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi also confirmed Pratikno is in good health and no resignation has been submitted.

USU Speaks Out on Alleged Forced Evacuation of Campus Church

The University of North Sumatra (USU) has addressed allegations that it forcibly removed items from the POUK Chapel on its campus, an incident that reportedly occurred while the church's pastor was being questioned by police. The university described the action as part of a temporary relocation to facilitate renovations aimed at expanding capacity for its growing Christian student body. The church's legal representative has condemned the move, claiming it was conducted without proper procedure and left the chapel in disarray.

BGN Chief Asks Regional Prosecutors to Oversee Free Nutritious Meal Programme

The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has requested that High Prosecutors' Offices and District Prosecutors' Offices provide legal assistance and oversight for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The move follows a meeting with the Attorney General, who stressed that past corruption cases related to the programme must serve as a lesson. The BGN leadership is committed to improving governance to ensure the programme's benefits reach the public effectively.

Asia Pacific Coatings Show Returns to Jakarta in August 2026

The Asia Pacific Coatings Show is set to return to Jakarta from 26-28 August 2026, bringing together over 170 exhibitors from across the global coatings supply chain. The event capitalises on the rapid growth of the Southeast Asian market, which is being driven by urbanisation and infrastructure investment, with Indonesia remaining the region's largest coatings market. The exhibition will feature a dedicated ChemTalks programme and an interactive Colour Mixology feature, providing a platform for technical exchange and product discovery.

Ministry of SMEs and OJK Sign MoU to Expand Financing Access and Markets

Indonesia's Ministry of SMEs and the Financial Services Authority (OJK) have signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at broadening financing access and strengthening the business ecosystem for micro, small, and medium enterprises. The collaboration seeks to ensure that increased access to capital is matched by market expansion, preventing production from outpacing demand. A joint task force will be established to integrate financial sector programmes and help SMEs scale up their operations.

KRP Preserves Tradition and Struggle for Reyog as World Cultural Heritage

The Reyog Ponorogo Community (KRP) reaffirms its commitment to preserving the traditional art form following its UNESCO recognition. The community previously sought support from the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) after an initial setback in the nomination process. Reyog Ponorogo is now officially listed as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage requiring urgent safeguarding.

Indocement Provides Decent Home for Builder After 51 Years of Service

PT Indocement Tunggal Prakarsa Tbk has renovated the dilapidated home of a 68-year-old builder in Lampung who spent 51 years constructing houses for others. The initiative, part of the 'Bangun Rumah Tukangku' programme, transformed the bamboo-walled, leaky-roofed dwelling into a permanent and safe home. The programme highlights the living conditions of construction workers who often build for others while residing in substandard housing themselves.

No Tolerance for Drug Involvement Among North Penajam Paser Police Personnel

The North Penajam Paser Police Chief has issued a strict zero-tolerance policy against any personnel involved in drug abuse or trafficking. The directive, delivered during a leadership assembly, also emphasised strengthening discipline and enhancing forest and land fire prevention efforts. The chief stressed that internal integrity is paramount for the police force to effectively lead the public fight against narcotics.

Government to Form Inter-Ministerial Team to Tackle Agrarian Conflicts in Indonesia

The Indonesian government plans to establish a cross-ministerial team to accelerate the resolution of agrarian conflicts across the country. The decision follows a meeting between ministers, parliamentary leaders, and the Consortium for Agrarian Reform. The team will classify disputes by complexity, prioritising simpler cases such as farmland misclassified as forest area.

Pratikno Denies Resignation Rumours, Confirms Active Duty in Bromo

Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno has dismissed rumours of his resignation from the cabinet, stating he is in good health and currently coordinating forest fire response efforts in Bromo. The denial follows speculation about his health and position, which was also refuted by the Minister of State Secretary. Pratikno confirmed he was actively participating in a coordination meeting to accelerate firefighting operations in the East Java region.

Ahmad Luthfi Calls for Joint Action to Tackle Waste in Central Java

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi has urged collaborative efforts to address the province's waste challenges, highlighting the need for public awareness and integrated management. He expressed support for the upcoming World Cleanup Day 2026, which organisers hope will extend beyond a single-day event to foster sustainable practices. The initiative includes expanding successful programmes like refuse-derived fuel plants and zero-waste schools across the region.

What If Israel Takes Over Al-Aqsa Mosque?

Arab and Muslim-majority nations have issued a stark warning that Israel's erosion of the long-standing status quo at Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque compound could ignite a religious conflict with global repercussions. Reports indicate a surge in restrictions on Muslim worshippers and increased permissiveness towards Jewish religious activities at the site, which is sacred to both Islam and Judaism. The diplomatic outcry follows decades of growing influence by hardline Israeli groups, now with greater political representation, seeking to alter the delicate arrangement at the flashpoint holy site.

Coordinating Minister Pratikno Denies Resignation Rumours Amid Bromo Fire Duties

Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno has dismissed rumours that he sought to resign from the cabinet due to illness. He confirmed he is currently on duty coordinating the response to forest fires in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi also corroborated that Pratikno is in good health and has not submitted any resignation.

The Importance of Economic Sovereignty on the Path to Golden Indonesia 2045

A senior advisor to an indigenous entrepreneurs' association has stressed that political independence must be matched by economic sovereignty to avoid new forms of colonisation. Didin S Damanhuri argued that Indonesia cannot rely solely on the global economy and must strengthen national industry and strategic resource management. He warned that the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision will fail if the nation merely serves as a market for global interests.

Video: Effects of RKAB Cuts and Rising Fuel Costs, Miners Delay Truck and Heavy Equipment Purchases

Indonesian truck distributor PT Gaya Makmur Mobil reports continued business growth of 30% in the first half of 2026, driven by logistics and construction sectors. However, the mining sector is experiencing a slowdown in new orders as operators postpone purchases due to challenges surrounding RKAB quota reductions and rising fuel costs. The company still sees demand from miners with long-term contracts who require fleet rejuvenation.

Purbaya Reveals Idea of Channelling Danantara Profits into State Budget

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has disclosed a proposal for profits from the Danantara investment authority to be channelled into the state budget. The idea follows a new government regulation enabling the sovereign wealth fund to receive state capital injections. President Prabowo Subianto recently reported that Danantara's revenue surged by up to 400 per cent in its first year, though he has called for a thorough audit to verify the figures.

Milk, Rice, Pork: The World's 40 Most Valuable Food Commodities

Milk has overtaken rice as the world's most valuable food commodity, with a production value of US$379 billion in 2024, according to FAO data. The combined value of the top 40 commodities reached approximately US$4.3 trillion, with animal products dominating the upper ranks. The data highlights the vast scale of the global food economy and signals a projected shift towards increased livestock production as incomes rise in middle-income countries.

Tambakmekar Village Develops Nature and Cultural Tourism Through Pinus Kujang

Tambakmekar Village in Subang, West Java, is leveraging its natural and cultural assets to boost tourism through the Pinus Kujang Festival. The event, funded by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, showcases traditional arts, local gastronomy, and games to drive economic benefits for the community. The initiative aims to elevate the village's destination status while preserving its heritage through collaboration between universities, local enterprises, and the government.

Birth Certificates Now Issued Instantly After Delivery via Digital Integration

The Indonesian government has launched a digital integration system that allows birth certificates to be issued automatically and sent online immediately after a child is born. The initiative connects health facilities with the civil registration system, aiming to eliminate bureaucratic delays and ensure every newborn receives legal identity from day one. Officials emphasised that the move is part of a broader effort to create a seamless, data-driven public service ecosystem.

Inaugurated by Megawati, TMP to Become PDIP's Engine to Court Millennials and Gen Z in 2029

The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) has inaugurated the new leadership of its youth wing, Taruna Merah Putih (TMP), for the 2025–2030 term. Chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri directly instructed the organisation to engage young people, as data projects that Millennial and Gen Z voters will constitute 56 per cent of the electorate in the 2029 election. The TMP aims to dismantle negative stigmas around politics through a campaign called 'Politics is Fun' to attract and eventually turn young people into party cadres.

SCG Sharing the Dream 2026 Distributes Hundreds of Scholarships to Develop Indonesia's Young Human Resources

SCG has reaffirmed its commitment to developing Indonesia's youth by awarding 412 scholarships under the 'SCG Sharing the Dream 2026' programme, now in its 14th year. The initiative addresses human capital gaps, noting that 19.44 per cent of Indonesia's population falls into the NEET category. The programme, in partnership with Ancora Foundation, focuses on building leadership, adaptability, and practical skills through capacity building and community projects.

Minister Amran Invites Unhas New Students to Innovate for Food Sovereignty

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has called on 10,401 new students at Hasanuddin University to drive innovation in achieving food sovereignty. He emphasised the need for a shift in mindset, technological adaptation, and efficient resource management to boost production. The minister highlighted the strategic role of higher education in producing human resources capable of contributing to national development.

Nusron: Land Service Transformation Aims to Shut Down Mafia Operations

Agrarian Minister Nusron Wahid has stated that the digital transformation of land services is designed to eliminate the systemic loopholes exploited by land mafias. The initiative focuses on accelerating service times and integrating central and regional government data to remove discrepancies. The ministry aims to enhance transparency and human resource integrity as a more effective countermeasure than arrests alone.

Smart Buildings: Hospital and Factory Cut Costs and Downtime

Indonesian hospitals and factories are adopting smart building technologies to significantly reduce operational costs and improve efficiency. SMC Rumah Sakit Telogorejo reversed a 9% annual rise in electricity costs, achieving a 5% reduction after implementing Schneider Electric's Building Management System. The initiatives align with government regulations mandating green and smart building standards to help meet national emissions reduction targets.

New Phenomenon: Behavioural Shift Observed Among Vehicle Insurance Users

The President Director of Oona Insurance Indonesia has identified a notable shift in consumer behaviour, with demand increasingly moving from vehicle-only protection towards personal accident cover for drivers and borrowers. Speaking at a multifinance industry event, Vincent Soegianto highlighted that insurers are now evolving from mere vendors into strategic partners, engaging in tripartite discussions with finance companies and automotive brands to develop affordable, market-acceptable products. He stressed that solid communication between insurers and multifinance firms is key to ensuring industry health and appropriate customer protection.

Iran's Foreign Minister Says US 'Begging' to Resume Negotiations

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has accused the United States of 'begging' to restart stalled negotiations, while firmly denying any ongoing talks between the two nations. Araghchi stated that Washington had initially demanded 'unconditional surrender' but is now seeking dialogue, though Tehran insists no negotiations will occur until the US compensates for violating a prior memorandum of understanding. The remarks underscore the deepening diplomatic rift, with communications currently limited to messages exchanged through mediators.

Attorney General Urges High Prosecutors to Prioritise Cases Affecting Public Livelihood

Attorney General ST Burhanuddin has instructed newly appointed High Prosecutors to focus on cases impacting the public's welfare and the state's economy. He emphasised the need for regional prosecutor's offices to handle strategic corruption cases professionally to ensure equitable enforcement nationwide. The directive was issued during the swearing-in ceremony of 15 new High Prosecutors and 19 other officials in Jakarta.

Governor KDM Interrogates Student Who Fatally Struck Police Officer, Reveals Perpetrator Was Intoxicated

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi personally interrogated a university student who killed a police officer in a hit-and-run incident in Bandung. The suspect, identified only as A, admitted to driving a borrowed sedan while intoxicated when he struck Aiptu Asep Suhara. The governor stated the public interrogation was intended to demonstrate transparency and dispel any suspicion of a cover-up.

Principal of SMAN 1 Jonggat Urged to Resign as 57 Teachers Sign No-Confidence Motion

The headmaster of a state senior high school in Lombok is facing calls to resign from both students and staff. Students protested over poor facilities including damaged furniture, broken windows, and a lack of textbooks, while 57 teachers signed a motion of no confidence. The principal has dismissed the demands, stating that his employment status is a matter for his superiors, not the students.

Narcotics Cases Dominate Jakarta Probation Office's Parole Clients

The Central Jakarta Correctional Centre (Bapas) reports that drug-related offences constitute the majority of cases among its 783 clients undergoing parole and supervised release. Officials stress that combating narcotics requires a multi-sectoral approach beyond the correctional system, involving education and social support. The agency is providing skills training and guidance to help former inmates reintegrate and avoid reoffending.

West Java's Tasikmalaya Set to Become Indonesia's Furniture and Craft Hub

The Indonesian Furniture and Handicraft Industry Association (HIMKI) is spearheading a plan to transform the Priangan region, particularly Tasikmalaya, into a major export-oriented centre for furniture and crafts. The initiative aims to shift local artisans from a subcontractor mindset to becoming original design manufacturers with direct access to global markets. The strategy involves curating 30 to 50 potential companies, with the goal of generating initial export orders within six to twelve months.

Nusron on Post-17 August Reshuffle Issue: It's Unseemly for Ministers to Discuss It

Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Nusron Wahid has responded to speculation about a cabinet reshuffle after 17 August, stating it is the prerogative of President Prabowo Subianto. He emphasised that it is inappropriate for ministers to comment on the matter, as their sole duty is to work. The remarks follow a suggestion from a PKS politician that any new cabinet members should be professionals rather than party figures.

Unhas represents Indonesia at Peace Conference in Hiroshima

Universitas Hasanuddin (Unhas) was the sole Indonesian university to participate in the 6th University Presidents for Peace Conference in Hiroshima, Japan. The forum, which coincided with the 81st anniversary of the atomic bombing, saw 17 universities from 11 countries adopt a joint declaration committing to peace and sustainability through education and research. Unhas highlighted the importance of translating historical experience into academic collaboration and fostering a generation open to diversity.

IKD Becomes Gateway to Digital Population Administration Services

The Indonesian Ministry of Home Affairs is promoting the Digital Population Identity (IKD) as a single access point for civil administration services. The application allows citizens to manage family cards, birth certificates, and other documents digitally, with future plans including secure remote onboarding and international standard adoption.

Mayor Fadly Amran and PRR Task Force Inspect Flood Impact in Padang

Padang Mayor Fadly Amran, alongside the national PRR Task Force, has inspected areas severely affected by the 3 August 2026 floods. The visit highlighted the need to update the city's Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Plan (R3P) to include integrated, long-term flood mitigation. The proposed projects, including a retention basin and drainage improvements, carry an estimated cost of IDR 955.73 billion.

BCA Syariah Says Gold Remains a Preferred Long-Term Investment Choice

PT Bank BCA Syariah reports that gold continues to be a favoured long-term investment instrument among the public, evidenced by a 127.6 percent surge in its gold financing portfolio. The bank's gold financing grew from Rp301 billion in June 2025 to Rp684 billion in June 2026, supported by a lower minimum financing threshold and expanded product variety. The director noted that gold prices have risen by more than 200 percent over the past decade.

Central Java Governor: Waste Management Requires Collective Action

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi has called for a united effort involving government, communities, and businesses to tackle waste management, emphasising public awareness as the key factor. The province has consistently ranked first in Indonesia for volunteer numbers during World Cleanup Day, with this year marking the eighth edition of the global event. Organisers highlighted ongoing initiatives like the Zero Waste School programme in Kudus and stressed the need for stronger regulations to shift public mindsets away from viewing waste solely as a government responsibility.

PDI-P Launches Youth Wing to Engage Millennial and Gen Z Voters Ahead of 2029 Election

The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) has inaugurated its new central board for the Taruna Merah Putih youth wing, signalling a strategic push to connect with younger voters. With Millennials and Gen Z projected to make up 56% of the electorate in 2029, the organisation aims to reshape perceptions of politics through a campaign called 'Politics is Fun'. The initiative will focus on creating a welcoming entry point for young people before developing them into committed party cadres.

Maluku Presents Replica of Admiral Maeda's House for 81st Indonesian Independence Day

The Maluku provincial government has erected a replica of Admiral Tadashi Maeda's historic residence in Ambon to commemorate the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence. The installation aims to educate younger generations about the pivotal role the original house in Jakarta played in the formulation of the Proclamation of Independence text. Organisers hope the visual representation will strengthen national spirit and connect the struggle for freedom with contemporary development challenges.

Indonesia's $21 Billion Gas Gamble: A Long-Delayed Mega-Project Takes Shape in the Remote East

Indonesia's long-stalled Abadi gas field project in the Masela Block has entered physical construction, marking a $20.9 billion investment aimed at shifting the nation's industrial centre eastward. The development, operated by INPEX alongside Pertamina and Petronas, is designed to produce 9.5 million metric tons of LNG annually while legally mandating 40% of its gas output for domestic consumption. Analysts caution that the massive capital influx into the remote Tanimbar Islands requires careful management to avoid inflationary pressures and social friction, even as the project incorporates carbon capture technology to meet global environmental standards.

Government to Limit Subsidised Pertalite Fuel Consumption

The Indonesian government is planning to restrict the purchase of subsidised Pertalite fuel for high-income groups, specifically targeting households in the top two economic deciles. The policy aims to ensure that the substantial fuel subsidy budget is directed towards those who genuinely need it, while motorcycles will remain exempt from any purchase restrictions.

South Jakarta City Government Distributes National Flags Ahead of Independence Day

The South Jakarta City Government has launched a movement to distribute Indonesian flags to residents in the lead-up to the 81st anniversary of the nation's independence. The initiative aims to foster nationalism and encourage widespread flag displays across the city. Officials have instructed all regional apparatus to participate actively and have set a deadline of 31 August 2026 for the flags to be flown.

Minister Pigai Orders KemenHAM to Help Control El Niño Impacts

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has instructed all staff of the Ministry of Human Rights across Indonesia to actively coordinate with central and regional governments to mitigate the social impacts of the El Niño phenomenon. The directive aims to ensure that the effects of prolonged dry weather, such as forest fires, drought, and crop failure, are anticipated and managed collaboratively. The ministry is also tasked with directly monitoring vulnerable communities to safeguard their rights during the crisis.

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Refuses to Comment on Incomplete Return of Cash to KPK

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni declined to address allegations that he did not fully return cash linked to a corruption case involving a former regent. The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) stated the minister returned only 12,000 of the 14,000 Singapore dollars allegedly given to him. The case is connected to a bribery investigation concerning the release of forest production areas in Kuantan Singingi.

Airlangga: Debottlenecking Task Force Resolves 124 Company Complaints

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto announced that the government's Debottlenecking Task Force has resolved 124 out of 170 complaints from companies, aiming to accelerate the removal of business and investment hurdles. The task force was established to help firms overcome operational obstacles, ensuring smoother and more productive business activities. Airlangga also urged publicly listed companies to maintain performance, strengthen governance, and utilise the capital market for expansion.

Student Charged with Fatal Hit-and-Run of Police Officer While Driving Under the Influence

A university student has been named a suspect in a fatal hit-and-run incident that killed a Bandung police officer. The suspect, identified only as A, was driving under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash. Two members of the Indonesian military were passengers in the vehicle and are being treated as witnesses.

South Sumatra Police Distribute Water to Drought-Affected Residents in Empat Lawang

The South Sumatra Police have delivered clean water aid to residents of Tanjung Kupang sub-district in Empat Lawang Regency who are struggling with water scarcity due to the prolonged dry season. The initiative, led by the local police chief, aims to ease the burden on communities facing limited access to clean water. Officials also urged residents to use water wisely and protect existing water sources.

Finance Minister Purbaya on Destry Damayanti as Sole Candidate for BI Governor: Good, I Am Quite Close

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has endorsed the nomination of Destry Damayanti as the sole candidate for Bank Indonesia Governor, citing her ample experience and their close working relationship. President Prabowo Subianto has formally submitted Damayanti's name to the House of Representatives for a fit and proper test. Purbaya expressed confidence in future coordination, noting their smooth collaboration during his tenure as Chairman of the Indonesia Deposit Insurance Corporation.

Customs DG Claims Agency Reform Progress is Evident

The Director General of Customs and Excise, Djaka Budi Utama, asserts that institutional reforms are already showing results, citing the recent seizure of 8.96 million illegal cigarettes. This response follows Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa's deadline of September 2026 for performance improvements, with the minister threatening to outsource customs functions to a private Swiss firm if reforms fail.

Nusa Penida Retribution Levy of IDR 25,000 per Attraction Postponed to 1 September

The Klungkung Regency Government has postponed the implementation of a new retribution levy for tourist attractions in Nusa Penida, Bali, from 12 August to 1 September 2026. The levy, set at IDR 25,000 for adults and IDR 15,000 for children per attraction, will apply to both foreign and domestic visitors. The local hotel and restaurant association has criticised the policy, arguing for a longer socialisation period and calling for infrastructure improvements before additional charges are imposed.

Finance Minister Purbaya Backs Destry Damayanti as Sole Candidate for BI Governor

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has endorsed the nomination of Destry Damayanti as the sole candidate for Bank Indonesia Governor, citing her extensive experience and their close working relationship. President Prabowo Subianto has formally submitted Damayanti's name to the House of Representatives for the definitive role. The move is expected to maintain strong coordination between the Ministry of Finance and the central bank.

Indonesia's Shoe Industry Accelerates as US Faces Pressure from Two Nations

Indonesia's leather and footwear industry recorded its highest growth in 15 quarters, driven by a rebound in export demand. However, the sector faces ongoing challenges including geopolitical uncertainty, rising raw material costs, and US trade tariffs. Opportunities for market expansion into Europe are emerging through the IEU-CEPA trade agreement.

Airlangga seeks Rp2,000 tln MSME funding target to boost production

Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto has proposed raising Indonesia's MSME funding target to Rp2,000 trillion to close the financing gap for growing enterprises. Speaking at a summit in Jakarta, he highlighted India's model of integrating small businesses with large corporations and stressed the role of digitalisation, including QRIS adoption and AI, in improving credit access and productivity. The government is also promoting a national internship programme to help small businesses scale their workforce efficiently.

Viral Illegal Dump in Cilincing: Governor Pram Demands Operator Be Stopped and Sanctioned

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has ordered strict action against the private operator of an illegal waste dump in Cilincing, North Jakarta, after images of vast rubbish piles went viral. The governor stated the site, which processes commercial waste from hotels, restaurants, and cafés, has no connection to the city administration. He has instructed relevant agencies to halt operations and impose sanctions on the responsible party.

Andre Rosiade Receives Aspirations from PT Pos Workers' Unions, Pushes for Joint Solution with Danantara

House Commission VI Deputy Chairman Andre Rosiade has pledged to facilitate further talks between PT Pos Indonesia's workers' unions, Danantara Asset Management, and the company's board of directors. The meeting aims to address worker concerns regarding welfare, restructuring impacts, and the rights of outsourced and courier partners. Rosiade stressed that the transformation of the state-owned enterprise must not neglect the protection and certainty of workers' rights.

Minister threatens to revoke licences of feed and egg price manipulators

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has issued a stark warning that the government will revoke business licences of any company found manipulating feed and egg prices. The move aims to stabilise the market and protect national poultry farmers, with a task force already deployed to investigate suspected violators. The government is also enforcing new rules requiring nutritional service units to absorb eggs from local farmers.

Seribu Islands Residents Welcome Transjakarta's Takeover of Sea Transport

Residents of the Seribu Islands have welcomed the Jakarta provincial government's plan to transfer management of sea transport services to city-owned bus operator PT Transjakarta from 2027, citing hopes for improved connectivity, more frequent and affordable services, and a transparent electronic ticketing system to replace the current limited schedule.

Pramono Condemns Quran Memorisation Challenge for Alcohol, Calls It a Desecration

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has strongly condemned a promotional campaign that offered alcoholic beverages as a reward for memorising the Quran, describing it as a desecration of religious life. He has instructed his administration to take firm action against the organisers. The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) also declared the marketing gimmick a violation of religious, moral, and legal norms.

KJRI Kuching Holds Series of 81st Independence Day Events in Sarawak

The Indonesian Consulate General in Kuching organised Independence Day celebrations across Sarawak, drawing around 600 citizens to traditional games and cultural performances at a palm oil plantation. The events aimed to foster national pride, unity, and mutual cooperation among Indonesian migrant workers and their children. The consulate emphasised the importance of maintaining a connection to the homeland, particularly for the younger generation born abroad.

HIMKI targets development of West Java handicraft export strength

The Indonesian Furniture and Handicraft Industry Association (HIMKI) is focusing on the Priangan region of West Java to become a new production hub and export force for handicrafts. The initiative aims to boost global competitiveness by strengthening product quality, identity, and supply chain professionalism. HIMKI plans to map and curate local businesses, guiding them from subcontractors to original brand manufacturers within 12 to 36 months.

Health Minister Reveals 300,000 Drug Addicts in Indonesia, Contributing to Prison Overcrowding

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin disclosed that approximately 300,000 drug addicts are currently recorded in Indonesia, with the majority incarcerated. He highlighted that this practice is a major cause of prison overcapacity, while an estimated 4 million people are classified as drug abusers. The government is coordinating cross-ministerial efforts to shift treatment from a punitive approach to medical rehabilitation.

Compared to Malaysia and Thailand, Indonesia's Financing Market Remains Very Large

The acting president director of Mandiri Utama Finance (MUF) has stated that Indonesia's multi-finance market still holds immense potential, especially when compared to more mature markets like Malaysia and Thailand. Despite global geopolitical uncertainties, the sector continues to record growth, with vehicle ownership rates in Indonesia significantly lower than its neighbours. The industry is advised to adopt flexible and agile approaches, leveraging digitalisation and data to mitigate customer risks.

Ministry of Social Affairs and INABA University Collaborate on 'Sekolah Rakyat' to Combat Poverty

The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs (Kemensos) has formalised a partnership with INABA University to strengthen the 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's Schools) programme. The initiative aims to provide character building, skills training, and higher education pathways for students from impoverished families. Officials emphasised that the collaboration, which includes teaching coding and artificial intelligence, is designed to help students lift themselves and their families out of poverty.

AI Triggers Fake Interview Crisis as White-Collar Job Hunt Gets Harder

The rise of generative AI is fuelling a surge in fake job interviews, allowing candidates to easily manipulate recruitment processes. This trend is exacerbating hiring challenges amid widespread layoffs and a tightening white-collar job market. Experts warn that traditional resume screening and remote video interviews are no longer reliable indicators of a candidate's true competence.

AGO Exercises Caution in Febrie Probe: 'We Are Dealing with a Former Legal Warrior'

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office (AGO) has stated it is proceeding with meticulous care in the corruption investigation of former senior prosecutor Febrie Adriansyah, describing him as a 'former legal warrior'. A special team of nine experienced prosecutors is handling the case, with the AGO emphasising that core evidence will only be revealed in court to prevent suspects from tampering with assets. Febrie faces multiple charges, including corruption and money laundering linked to the ASABRI scandal, the discovery of 74 kg of gold, and a separate case involving a blackout at a coal-fired power plant.

BPJPH Strengthens Regional HR Competence Ahead of Mandatory Halal 2026

The Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) is bolstering the competence of regional supervisory staff in preparation for the full implementation of the Mandatory Halal policy on 18 October 2026. The initiative aims to ensure effective governance and business compliance with halal regulations. A new regulation on administrative sanctions has also been enacted to strengthen legal certainty within the national halal ecosystem.

Prabowo instructs acceleration of Bromo fire suppression

President Prabowo Subianto has ordered the rapid extinguishing of wildfires in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, with the central government pledging full support to local authorities. The government has also urged the public to avoid activities that could spark fires during the current dry El Niño conditions, recalling a 2023 blaze caused by flares at a pre-wedding photoshoot. Weather modification operations are being prepared, though their success depends on atmospheric conditions.

BWA Receives Award from Serang City Government for Distributing Qurans to Remote Areas

The Indonesian Quran Waqf Board (BWA) has been honoured by the Serang City Government for its corporate social responsibility efforts in distributing Qurans to remote areas. The award was presented during a city council plenary session marking Serang's 19th anniversary. BWA hopes the recognition will boost its commitment to expanding Quran waqf distribution and benefiting the local community.