Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 11 August 2026

Showing 501-550 of 1,526 articles

Houthi Missile Kills Three Merchant Ship Crew, Including One Indonesian National

A ballistic missile fired by Houthi rebels struck a merchant vessel in the Bab al-Mandeb strait, resulting in the deaths of three crew members, including an Indonesian citizen. The attack underscores the persistent threat to commercial shipping in one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints. The incident occurred against a backdrop of heightened regional tensions, with Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan having recently signed a mutual defence pact in Mecca.

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

The legal team for former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has raised concerns over the omission of several names from the corruption indictment related to the 2023–2024 additional hajj quota. They argue that individuals directly involved in technical-level fee collection and quota management have been left out, while criminal liability is being directed solely at the minister. The defence plans to challenge the indictment, asserting that the policy decisions were administrative matters and that the case amounts to the criminalisation of policy.

National Nutrition Agency Visits Attorney General's Office to Discuss Legal Assistance and Cooperation

The leadership of Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) met with the Attorney General's Office to request legal support and establish supervisory cooperation for its programmes. The BGN pledged full transparency regarding an ongoing corruption investigation into the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme by the special crimes unit. The Attorney General emphasised that the previous corruption case must serve as a lesson to improve future governance and prevent recurrence.

Area Affected by Bromo Fire Reaches 899 Hectares

The wildfire in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park has scorched 899 hectares, with joint teams struggling against strong winds and distant water sources. Coordinating ministers have visited the command post to direct the deployment of military and police personnel to bolster ground and aerial firefighting efforts. The blaze has also prompted the temporary closure of tourist access points, impacting the local economy.

Indonesia contains Bromo fire hotspots after 900 hectares affected

Firefighting teams have successfully contained active hotspots in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park after a wildfire scorched nearly 900 hectares since early August. Joint operations involving government ministries, the military, and local authorities are focusing on cutting off the fire's spread amid challenges from strong winds and limited aerial visibility. Authorities have ruled out natural causes as the primary trigger and are implementing patrols and other measures to prevent reignition.

Bank Jakarta Builds Organic Waste Processing Facility in Rorotan, North Jakarta

Bank Jakarta has commenced construction of a communal organic waste processing facility in Rorotan, North Jakarta, as part of its corporate social and environmental responsibility programme. The biodigester technology will convert household organic waste into renewable biogas and organic fertiliser, with a combined capacity to process 500 kilogrammes of waste daily. The initiative is projected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 154.4 tonnes of CO2 equivalent per year.

Salim Group Targets Indonesia's Console Gaming Market with Official Nintendo Distribution

Salim Group, through its subsidiary PT Nusantara Interactive Niaga, has officially become the distributor for Nintendo products in Indonesia, aiming to capture a share of the country's growing gaming market. The move seeks to leverage the nation's large gamer community and a market valued at over US$2 billion, expanding beyond game sales into hardware, accessories, and after-sales services. The company plans to build a comprehensive ecosystem including retail partnerships, demo areas, and official repair centres to ensure product authenticity and consumer trust.

YouTube Revises Monetisation Rules, Doubles Minimum Watch Hours

YouTube has announced stricter monetisation requirements for new content creators, doubling the minimum watch hours needed to earn from advertising. The changes, effective 1 February, also include higher thresholds for Shorts views and an expansion of the Premium Lite subscription service. The platform aims to align its partner programme with its growing viewership, which now exceeds 200 billion daily Shorts views.

Trump Faced Assassination Threat, Secretly Fled Turkey in Catering Truck

A Washington Post report has revealed that US President Donald Trump was secretly evacuated from Turkey last month due to a credible assassination threat from Iran. He was covertly transferred from Air Force One to a military aircraft using an airport catering truck. The White House confirmed the use of high-level security protocols, stating that many enemies are targeting the president.

Customs DG Djaka Reveals Latest Update on New Excise Tax Layer Plan for Cigarettes

The Directorate General of Customs and Excise is still reviewing a proposal to add a new excise tax layer on tobacco products, aimed at curbing illegal cigarette circulation. Director General Djaka Budi Utama stated his agency is awaiting a final decision from Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, who has completed the proposal and intends to present it to the House of Representatives. The policy seeks to bring illegal cigarette distributors into the legal market by offering a specific excise payment scheme, with a firm crackdown promised for those who refuse.

Indonesia Explores Regulatory Collaboration with China on Drug and Food Safety

Indonesia's Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) is seeking to strengthen regulatory cooperation with China, focusing on pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and food safety. The initiative aims to ensure products meet safety and quality standards while facilitating trade. Discussions with the Chinese Ambassador included plans to update a Memorandum of Understanding and explore investment in medical device technology transfer.

WhatsApp Launches Meta Business Agent, an AI Agent for 24-Hour Business Services

Meta has introduced the Meta Business Agent in Indonesia, an AI-powered tool designed to provide businesses with automated, round-the-clock customer service via WhatsApp. The feature aims to capitalise on the high volume of business-related interactions on the platform, where 71 per cent of Indonesian users message business accounts daily. The service offers two implementation paths for different business scales and includes an option to escalate complex queries to human staff.

PBNU Chairman: Pesantren Implement Comprehensive Education Model

Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) Chairman KH Yahya Cholil Staquf has stated that Islamic boarding schools, or pesantren, apply a holistic educational model balancing physical health, intellectual acumen, and spiritual closeness. Speaking in South Kalimantan, he emphasised that modern santri must master both religious texts and secular sciences like mathematics and physics. The approach aims to produce well-rounded individuals capable of solving life's challenges and integrating fully into society.

PAN Faction Condemns Alcohol Promotion Using Quran Memorisation

The National Mandate Party (PAN) faction in Indonesia's parliament has strongly condemned a promotional stunt at a music festival that challenged attendees to recite a Quranic verse in exchange for alcohol. The incident, which occurred at The Sounds Project in Jakarta, has been widely criticised for disrespecting religious sanctity and exploiting Islamic scripture for commercial gain. Lawmakers and the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) have called for accountability and urged authorities to take action against such violations of public ethics.

Bahlil Confirms Two-Wheeled Vehicles Exempt from Pertalite Fuel Restrictions

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has confirmed that motorcycles will not face restrictions when purchasing subsidised Pertalite fuel. The government is instead focusing on limiting access for luxury vehicles and high-income households. Officials are studying a phased implementation targeting the top economic deciles to ensure the subsidy is better directed.

Jakarta Firefighters Compete in Skills Challenge at JFFC 2026

The Jakarta Fire and Rescue Service (Gulkarmat) held the Jakarta Fire Fighter Challenge 2026 to sharpen the technical skills and readiness of its personnel. The event featured two demanding categories, Hoselaying and Braveheart, designed to simulate real-world firefighting and rescue scenarios. The competition aims to enhance professionalism and preparedness in protecting the public.

Deal! Waste-to-Energy Plant to be Built in Piyungan by Year-End

A Rp 3 trillion waste-to-energy project in Piyungan, Yogyakarta, is set to begin construction in December 2026 following a memorandum of understanding between Danantara Investment Management and the regional government. The facility will process 1,000 tonnes of waste daily from Yogyakarta City, Sleman, and Bantul, generating up to 20 megawatts of electricity for sale to PLN. The project aims to resolve regional waste issues while providing a renewable energy source and prioritising local employment.

Purbaya admits to regular coordination with Destry Damayanti

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has acknowledged a close working relationship and frequent coordination with Destry Damayanti, the sole candidate for Bank Indonesia Governor. He praised her performance and noted their previous collaboration during his tenure as Chairman of the LPS Board of Commissioners. President Prabowo Subianto has formally submitted Damayanti's name to the House of Representatives for the definitive governor position.

Minister Challenges Psychologists to Write Lightweight Self-Help Books Like 'Atomic Habits'

Indonesia's Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology has urged local psychologists to produce accessible, best-selling self-help books for Generation Z. He noted the current lack of popular Indonesian psychology literature, which forces young readers to rely on translated foreign works. The initiative aims to reduce the stigma around mental health consultations and build resilience among students.

Alcohol Promotion Using Quran Recitation 'Desecrates Religious Life', Jakarta Governor Vows Firm Action

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has strongly condemned a viral alcohol promotion that challenged participants to recite a passage from the Quran. The incident occurred during a music festival in Ancol, North Jakarta, and has been described as a desecration of religious life. The Governor has instructed city officials to take firm action, stating such an event should never have been allowed in the capital.

565 Villages in West Java to Hold Digital Village Head Elections

A total of 565 villages across six regencies in West Java are scheduled to hold digital village head elections (pilkades) this year. The West Java provincial government is supporting the process by providing village websites for information dissemination and voter data access. The move towards digital elections follows a successful pilot in Karawang Regency, which reportedly saw high voter participation and significant cost savings compared to conventional methods.

Central Sulawesi ships 7,344 tons of durian to China

Central Sulawesi exported 7,344 tons of frozen durian to China between January and July 2026, marking a significant breakthrough for the province's horticultural trade. The shipments, valued at an estimated Rp2.5 billion to Rp2.8 billion per container, have received no quality complaints from Chinese buyers. Officials emphasised that maintaining strict phytosanitary standards is essential to capitalise on strong demand, attract foreign investment, and improve local farmers' welfare.

Uncovering Money Changer SOPs: AGO Examines Bank Indonesia Official in Febrie Adriansyah Case

The Attorney General's Office (AGO) is deepening its investigation into alleged corruption and money laundering involving former junior attorney general for special crimes, Febrie Adriansyah. Investigators have questioned an official from Bank Indonesia to understand the standard operating procedures and regulatory framework governing money changer businesses. The examination is part of a broader effort to gather evidence and trace assets suspected to be linked to the criminal proceeds.

Minister: Domestic Market Flooded with Imports, Threatening Local MSMEs

Minister of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Maman Abdurrahman has warned that the domestic market is saturated with imported products, creating a significant challenge for local businesses. He argued that even with increased financing and training, MSMEs will fail if the market is not protected from foreign goods. The minister called for import restrictions to balance the market and prevent social problems arising from business failures.

Riau Police's 'Red and White Expedition' Delivers Aid to Remote Villages in Rohul

The Riau Regional Police's 'Ekspedisi Merah Putih Presisi' has reached the remote hamlet of Pintu Kuari in Rokan Hulu Regency, distributing social aid and fostering national spirit ahead of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The initiative provided 800 food packages, 1,350 flags, health services, and equipment such as outboard motors and motorcycles to communities with limited access. Local officials praised the programme as tangible proof of the state's presence, strengthening synergy between the police, military, and local government in the country's frontier regions.

UBSI Opens Call for Papers for ICAISD 2026, Boosting Competitive Tech and Cybersecurity Research

Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) has announced the call for papers for the 2026 IEEE International Conference on Advanced Information Scientific Development (ICAISD), focusing on AI-driven cybersecurity. The hybrid conference, scheduled for December 2026 in Bekasi, aims to foster academic collaboration and address digital transformation challenges. It will feature international keynote speakers and offers researchers the opportunity to publish in IEEE Xplore.

Attorney General Urges BGN to Evaluate After MBG Governance Case: 'Don't Let It Happen Again'

Attorney General ST Burhanuddin has called on the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) to conduct a thorough evaluation following a corruption case involving the management of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The BGN's new leadership visited the Attorney General's Office to request legal assistance and oversight to prevent future misconduct. The agency has committed to improving governance and service delivery in the wake of the scandal.

Pertamina plants 760 coral fragments to restore Tikus Island reef in Bengkulu

Pertamina Patra Niaga has planted 760 coral fragments at three sites around Tikus Island, Bengkulu, aiming to rehabilitate the coastal ecosystem. The initiative, involving local divers and the community, targets an 80 per cent survival rate through ongoing monitoring and maintenance. The effort coincides with National Nature Conservation Day and is intended to bolster marine biodiversity and support sustainable tourism.

How CMS and Government Credit Cards Are Transforming Regional Treasury Management

Indonesia's Ministry of Finance is accelerating the digitalisation of public finance by shifting all government transactions from cash to non-cash methods. The Cash Management System (CMS) and Government Credit Card (KKP) are the two main instruments driving this change at the regional level, aiming to improve efficiency, transparency, and accountability. The initiative also supports the national payment system and empowers local micro, small, and medium enterprises through the use of QRIS.

80 Banyumas Students Depart for Integrated National School Orientation

Eighty students from the Integrated National School (SNT) in Banyumas Regency, Central Java, have departed for a week-long school orientation programme in Semarang. Banyumas Regent Sadewo Tri Lastiono officially sent off the students from the Pendopo Sipanji hall. The programme, held at the Central Java Centre for Education Quality Assurance, will feature various activities and talent development sessions.

First Trial of Sexual Violence Case Against Pati Islamic Boarding School Founder Held

The Pati District Court commenced the first trial of Ashari, founder of the Ndholo Kusumo Islamic Boarding School, who is accused of sexual violence. The trial was held behind closed doors due to the nature of the crime, while the victim's lawyer demanded the maximum penalty, including chemical castration, citing dozens of potential victims.

From Next Year, Tourists Can Take Transjakarta to the Thousand Islands

The Jakarta provincial government has assigned Transjakarta to manage sea transportation services to the Thousand Islands starting in 2027. Governor Pramono Anung stated the move aims to improve service quality, which has been suboptimal under the current management of the Transportation Agency due to bureaucratic issues. The administration must first prepare the necessary regulations to provide a legal basis for Transjakarta's new maritime operations.

Expert Proposes Renaming Asset Forfeiture Bill to Asset Protection Bill

Public policy expert Bambang Harymurti has proposed changing the nomenclature of Indonesia's Asset Forfeiture Bill to the 'Asset Protection Bill', arguing the current title could legitimise legalised theft. Speaking before the House of Representatives' Commission III, he outlined ten protective safeguards to prevent political intimidation and ensure judicial independence. The bill is intended to recover state assets but has raised concerns about granting excessive power to the state over private property.

PRR Task Force Urges Nagan Raya to Accelerate Regional Transfer Fund Disbursement to Restore Public Access

The Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Task Force (Satgas PRR) is pressing the Nagan Raya district government in Aceh to speed up the realisation of additional Regional Transfer Funds (TKD), as current spending sits at a mere 0.74 percent. The delay is hindering critical infrastructure repairs, including a broken bridge that forces residents to cross a river by boat. Officials warn that the slow procurement and planning processes must be urgently addressed to meet a target of 50 percent realisation by the end of September.

Central Jakarta to Hold Rowing Competition for Independence Day

The Central Jakarta administration will host a rowing competition at Pasar Baru on 29-30 August 2026 as part of the 81st Independence Day celebrations. The event aims to preserve local sporting traditions and foster community interaction, featuring categories for students, the public, and government agency representatives. Safety measures have been coordinated with the Regional Disaster Management Agency, and cash prizes will be awarded to the top three teams.

Bad Weather Prevents Lombok Fishermen from Going to Sea for a Week

Severe weather and high waves have kept fishermen in West Lombok's Taman Ayu Village ashore for the past week, cutting off their sole source of income. Local fishermen report earning nothing during this period and are appealing to the government for basic food assistance. The conditions have also triggered coastal flooding and worsened abrasion in the area.

Central Sulawesi Government: Guangzhou–Palu Route Opens Regional Economic Growth

The Central Sulawesi provincial government has welcomed the inaugural China Southern Airlines flight from Guangzhou to Palu, asserting the new direct route will unlock fresh opportunities for trade, investment, and tourism. The inaugural flight saw high demand, with 176 of approximately 200 seats filled. The administration is targeting an increase in frequency to twice weekly by September to bolster the region's position as an economic hub in eastern Indonesia.

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Declines to Comment on KPK's Claim of Incomplete Cash Return

Indonesia's Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has refused to address allegations by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) that he has not fully returned money left by a non-active regent. The KPK claims there is a discrepancy between the amount returned and the total sum originally given. The case is linked to a broader investigation into a bribery and gratuity scandal involving the former Kuantan Singingi regent.

Purbaya on Fuel Subsidy Budget Condition: Safe!

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has assured that the budget for fuel subsidies remains relatively secure despite ongoing fluctuations in the Indonesian crude oil price. He explained that the government is now focusing on the average annual ICP rather than daily price movements. Various scenarios have been prepared to prevent the subsidy budget from swelling due to global oil price volatility.

Gerindra Responds to PKS Proposal to Recruit Non-Party Figures for Cabinet

The Gerindra Party has responded to a suggestion from the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) that President Prabowo Subianto should consider recruiting professionals from outside political parties for his cabinet. Gerindra spokesperson Bahtra Banong stated the party respects all input but emphasised that any cabinet reshuffle or appointment is the president's prerogative. The PKS proposal calls for prioritising individuals with integrity and capacity, regardless of party affiliation.

Finance Minister Purbaya: Pertalite Subsidy Control to Be Implemented Gradually

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa announced that the government will gradually implement restrictions on subsidised Pertalite fuel, targeting upper-class households in deciles 9 and 10. The policy aims to ensure subsidies are better targeted and to maintain fiscal stability amid volatile global oil prices. The government is currently finalising the supporting systems with state energy firm Pertamina before enforcing the new rules.

South Sulawesi Police Foil Narcotics Circulation, 16 Arrested

The South Sulawesi Regional Police's Narcotics Directorate has disrupted a significant drug trafficking operation, seizing 2.56 kilograms of methamphetamine and over 5.6 litres of synthetic liquid narcotics. Sixteen suspects were arrested across 12 police reports, with authorities estimating the seizures prevented potential substance abuse among roughly 49,000 individuals. The investigation is ongoing to determine if the methamphetamine supply is linked to international networks.

OJK Responds to Prabowo's Presidential Letter to DPR on Mineral Exchange Supervisor

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has confirmed that President Prabowo Subianto has submitted a presidential letter to the House of Representatives (DPR) regarding the candidate for the new position of Chief Executive of Mineral and Strategic Commodity Exchange Supervision. OJK Chief Commissioner Friderica Widyasari Dewi expressed confidence in the President's choice, stating the new body is crucial for preventing under-pricing and under-invoicing in the sector. The establishment of the exchange is seen as a key mandate to ensure the nation's natural resources provide maximum benefit for the people.

Former BUMD Director Detained After Skipping Summons Three Times

Prosecutors in Bekasi have detained a former director of a regional water company after he failed to appear for questioning on three separate occasions. The suspect is implicated in a customer connection graft case that allegedly caused state losses of Rp4.5 billion. He joins two other company officials already in custody over the scheme.

TTS Police Chief Encourages Development of Legendary Soe Apple Seedlings

The legendary Soe apple, once a source of pride for South Central Timor Regency, has been rediscovered fruiting in a resident's garden in North Mollo. TTS Police Chief AKBP Kristiyan B Martino visited the site and is urging collaborative research and development to revive the fruit's past glory. He highlighted the apple's sweet taste and its ability to grow without fertiliser as promising traits for future cultivation.

WhatsApp Introduces AI Agent to Help Businesses Serve Customers 24/7

WhatsApp has launched Meta Business Agent, an AI-powered tool enabling businesses in Indonesia to provide round-the-clock customer service via chat. A Meta executive noted that 71% of Indonesian users already message businesses daily, indicating strong public readiness for AI-assisted interactions. The agent can be trained to answer queries, recommend products, and schedule appointments, with a separate platform available for larger enterprises to build customised AI solutions.

Indonesia drafts child-friendly guidelines for Islamic boarding schools

The Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs is developing new guidelines to ensure Islamic boarding schools, or pesantren, are safe and supportive environments for children. The draft, discussed with stakeholders including the Indonesian Child Protection Commission and the National Police, emphasises prevention and the creation of robust safeguarding systems. Officials stress that child protection must be integrated into pesantren governance while respecting the institutions' traditional values and caregiving ethos.

Central Jakarta Government to Refurbish 16 Sports Facilities for Public Use

The Central Jakarta administration will refurbish 16 sports facilities in 2026 to meet growing public demand. The project, managed by the city's Youth and Sports Agency, includes upgrades to football pitches and multi-purpose courts based on community proposals and mayoral priorities. The initiative aims to provide free, accessible recreational spaces while also securing government assets through fencing.

Prabowo Selects Destry as Sole Candidate for BI Governor, Purbaya Responds

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has endorsed the sole candidacy of Destry Damayanti for Bank Indonesia Governor, citing their long-standing professional relationship. Purbaya highlighted their prior collaboration at the Indonesia Deposit Insurance Corporation, suggesting it would ensure seamless fiscal and monetary policy coordination. The House of Representatives is preparing to schedule a fit and proper test for Destry following the President's formal nomination.

Customs and excise thwarts delivery of 8.96 million illegal cigarettes

Indonesian customs officials intercepted 8.96 million illegal cigarettes worth an estimated Rp13.30 billion at Tanjung Priok Port, preventing potential state revenue losses of Rp8.66 billion. The illicit shipment, disguised as pipes and steel, was transported by rail from Surabaya and intended for onward sea shipment to Sumatra. Authorities emphasised the need for public cooperation to combat the circulation of untaxed excisable goods and protect state revenue.