Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 11 August 2026

Showing 601-650 of 1,526 articles

Expert proposes asset forfeiture must not occur without court ruling

Public policy expert Bambang Harymurti has urged that permanent asset forfeiture in Indonesia must be based on an independent court ruling to prevent abuse of power. He stressed that while temporary seizure is permissible, final deprivation of property rights should only follow a judicial process allowing full defence. Harymurti also argued that non-conviction based asset forfeiture should be strictly limited to exceptional circumstances defined clearly by law.

Riau Police Raid Shop Suspected of Selling Illegal Mining Gold, Seize Hundreds of Grams

Riau Police's Special Criminal Investigation Directorate raided a gold shop in Kampar Regency, seizing hundreds of grams of gold suspected to originate from illegal mining activities. The operation is an extension of a case involving unlicensed gold mining in Kuantan Singingi, where authorities previously destroyed hundreds of illegal mining rafts. Evidence including gold jewellery, smelting equipment, cash, and sales records was confiscated to investigate the link between illegal extraction and the gold trade.

Rupiah Weakens as US-Iran Hormuz Strait Conflict Escalates

The Indonesian rupiah weakened past Rp17,800 against the US dollar on Tuesday, pressured by rising geopolitical tensions between the United States and Iran over the Strait of Hormuz. The conflict has heightened fears of global crude oil supply disruptions. Domestically, the appointment of Destry Damayanti as the sole candidate for Bank Indonesia governor helped limit further losses.

PBNU Strengthens 20 Islamic Boarding Schools in South Kalimantan to Build 'Safe Pesantren'

The Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU) is consolidating 20 Islamic boarding schools in South Kalimantan to establish the 'Pesantren Aman' (Safe Pesantren) programme. The initiative focuses on setting security standards, identifying needs, and fostering inter-pesantren cooperation. A follow-up mentoring programme coordinated by regional and national NU boards will support the schools in implementing the required measures.

AGO Dismisses Reports of Safe Discovery During Febrie's House Search: Just a Regular Cupboard

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has clarified that no safe was found during a search of former junior attorney general for special crimes Febrie Adriansyah's residence, stating the item in question was merely a regular cupboard containing documents. The search, conducted on 31 July, is part of an investigation into money laundering linked to the ASABRI corruption case. Febrie has been named a suspect in both the ASABRI graft and money laundering cases, with previous searches uncovering 74 kg of gold and hundreds of billions of rupiah in cash.

Defence Minister's Special Staff Urges Papuan Separatists to Cease Violence Against Civilians

A special staff member to Indonesia's Defence Minister has issued a public appeal to the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB), demanding an immediate halt to violence against civilians. The official cited recent escalations, including executions, torture, and arson targeting teachers, missionaries, and local communities. The statement also addressed threats made against citizens and local officials to prevent them from participating in the upcoming Independence Day celebrations.

Alleged Corruption at Tabanan Health Office, Prosecutor's Office Yet to Name Suspects

The Tabanan District Prosecutor's Office has conducted a search of the local Health Office over alleged corruption involving fuel, lubricants, and food and drink budgets from 2023 to 2025. Despite escalating the case to the investigation stage, no suspects have been named, though 18 witnesses including staff and partners have been questioned. Investigators seized hundreds of documents, electronic devices, and over Rp8 million in cash suspected to be leftover funds from fictitious official travel orders.

No Indonesians affected in Colombia earthquake, ministry confirms

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has confirmed that no Indonesian nationals were harmed in the 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck Colombia, with the Indonesian Embassy in Bogota maintaining communication with citizens. The Colombian government has declared a national disaster and established an emergency response mechanism, while the embassy has issued safety advisories and a hotline for Indonesians in the affected areas.

Customs and Excise Foils Circulation of 1.2 Billion Illegal Cigarettes as of July 2026

Indonesia's Directorate General of Customs and Excise has seized 1.2 billion illegal cigarettes up to July 2026, marking a 100 percent increase compared to the same period last year. The latest operation at Tanjung Priok Port intercepted 8.96 million illicit cigarettes, preventing an estimated state loss of Rp8.66 billion. The crackdown underscores the government's commitment to combating the illegal tobacco trade and protecting state revenue.

BNN Chief Tightens Rehabilitation Oversight After Reports of Illegal Levies Persist

The head of Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has acknowledged ongoing reports of illegal levies within rehabilitation programmes and is moving to tighten supervision. A new memorandum of understanding signed with three ministries aims to create an integrated framework for medical and social rehabilitation from start to finish. The initiative includes forming a joint supervisory team to enforce standards and crack down on exploitative practices.

Law Minister Says Death Penalty for Corruptors Legally Possible

Indonesian Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas stated that the death penalty for corruption convicts is legally permissible under existing laws, including the new Criminal Code. His comments follow a viral call from a prominent Islamic scholar for harsher punishments, including amputation and execution, for corruptors. The minister clarified that while the death penalty remains an option, its application depends on the demands of prosecutors and the discretion of judges.

NU Bali and NTT Support Gus Rozin's 'Middle Axis' Vision for Nahdlatul Ulama Unity

KH Abdul Ghaffar Rozin, a candidate for the chairmanship of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), has proposed a 'Middle Axis' concept aimed at reducing polarisation and uniting the organisation ahead of its 35th Congress. During a meeting with NU administrators from Bali and East Nusa Tenggara, he emphasised that the leadership contest should not create divisions but rather serve as a platform to find common ground. Gus Rozin also stressed the importance of NU maintaining an independent, critical partnership with the government while continuing its role as a civil society organisation.

Information disclosure opens space for citizens to participate in city development: KI

The Jakarta Information Commission has stated that public information disclosure is a vital instrument for enabling citizen participation in urban development and governance, not merely an administrative obligation. Officials emphasised that transparent access to information, including digital services and budget details, is essential for fostering accountability and good governance. The Central Information Commission also reminded the public of their constitutional right to request information from public bodies.

Government to Form Inter-Ministerial Team to Resolve Agrarian Conflicts

The Indonesian government has announced the formation of a cross-ministerial team to accelerate the resolution of agrarian conflicts across the country. The team will classify disputes by complexity, prioritising simpler cases such as overlapping land status between agricultural areas and forest zones. The initiative follows a meeting between several ministers, the House of Representatives, and the Agrarian Reform Consortium.

DPR Urges Local Governments to Implement Integrated Waste Management from Upstream to Downstream

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called on regional governments to adopt a holistic and integrated approach to waste management, moving beyond merely providing physical facilities. The push comes as the Ministry of Environment plans to close 250 open dumping sites nationwide, requiring regions like the Bangka Belitung Islands to transition to isolated, standards-compliant systems. The legislator highlighted the particular urgency for tourist destinations such as Belitung to enhance their waste handling efforts.

KEPP: President Prabowo Adopts Populist Socialist Paradigm for Papua Development

The Executive Committee for the Acceleration of Papua's Special Autonomy Development (KEPPOKP) has stated that President Prabowo Subianto is implementing a 'populist socialist paradigm' to make Papua a national development priority. This approach, focusing on equitable development, respect for indigenous communities, and economic empowerment, is framed as a constitutional mandate. The committee views this as a strategic shift to position Papua as a new growth centre in the Pacific region.

PLN and Rappo Community Transform 10.5 Tonnes of Waste into Furniture in Makassar

State electricity firm PLN, in collaboration with the Rappo community in Makassar, South Sulawesi, has successfully recycled 10.5 tonnes of plastic waste into furniture and accessories since 2020. The initiative, part of the Nusantara Empowered Community programme, processes high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and PET plastics while providing income for local women. PLN aims to double the recycling capacity to 20 tonnes to further strengthen the circular economy in the region.

PRR Task Force Surveys Padang Pariaman to Assess Disaster Damage

A central government task force has surveyed Padang Pariaman, West Sumatra, to collect data on infrastructure damage caused by recent disasters. The team identified five strategic road points that have been severely affected, disrupting connectivity and daily activities. The findings will be reported to the central government to seek solutions in line with President Prabowo's commitment to accelerate recovery.

China Poised to Enter Madura, Building Factory Complex

The Wiraraja Madura Industrial Estate in Bangkalan, East Java, is preparing to attract significant manufacturing investment, with China leading the way by planning an entire industrial cluster. The development is part of a broader Indonesia-China cooperation under the Two Countries Twin Parks scheme, aiming to create a new economic growth centre. The estate will host diverse export-oriented factories, including plastics, textiles, furniture, and food canning, and is expected to employ thousands of workers.

East Java-West Kalimantan Trade Mission Records Rp2.3 Trillion in Transactions

A trade and investment mission between East Java and West Kalimantan has secured transaction commitments worth Rp2.3 trillion, primarily driven by the livestock sector. The agreements, signed in Pontianak, include a major Rp1 trillion poultry and meat supply deal alongside significant investments in fertiliser and palm oil. Both governors emphasised the need to move beyond paper agreements to realise tangible economic benefits and technology transfer.

Tanjung Priok Customs Foils Shipment of 8.9 Million Illegal Cigarettes Disguised as Light Steel

Customs officers at Tanjung Priok port intercepted two containers carrying 8.96 million illicit cigarettes destined for Sumatra. The cigarettes, valued at Rp 13.3 billion, were concealed behind a declared cargo of pipes and light steel, resulting in potential state losses of Rp 8.66 billion. The operation was based on a public tip-off and involved scanning containers arriving by rail from East Java.

Bekasi Regency Environmental Agency Investigates Five Companies Over Dust Pollution in Hegarmukti

The Bekasi Regency Environmental Agency (DLH) has launched an investigation into five companies, including two foreign investment firms, following community complaints about dust pollution and material spillage in Hegarmukti Village. The agency is coordinating with the West Java provincial government to review environmental documents for the foreign-owned companies and will verify permits for those under its jurisdiction. Authorities have demanded immediate dust control measures and plan to conduct ambient air quality tests to determine if pollution levels exceed legal limits.

Indonesia seeks Rp2,000 trillion MSME credit target

Coordinating Minister Hartarto has proposed raising Indonesia's MSME credit target to Rp2,000 trillion, building on the current outstanding credit of Rp1,519.1 trillion as of June 2026. The push comes as financial inclusion reaches 93.61 percent, with authorities aiming to close the financing gap for underserved businesses. The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has prioritised strengthening the MSME ecosystem in line with President Prabowo's directives.

1,025 Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units in Central Java Yet to Obtain Hygiene Sanitation Certificates

As many as 1,025 Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) in Central Java have not yet received their Hygiene Sanitation Eligibility Certificates (SLHS), despite a deadline set for 10 August 2026. While over 3,500 units have passed environmental health inspections, they still require additional compliance measures such as food handler training and laboratory testing. The data highlights ongoing administrative and health standard challenges in the implementation of the national nutrition programme.

Bogor City Government Begins Construction of 1.4 km Road to New Administrative Centre

The Bogor city administration has commenced construction of a 1.4-kilometre road to connect the new integrated government centre in Katulampa. The project, which includes drainage, pedestrian paths, and lighting, is expected to be completed within 120 days. The new access road is designed to reduce congestion, improve logistics, and stimulate economic growth in East Bogor.

DPR Proposes Independent Supervisory Body in Asset Forfeiture Bill

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has proposed the establishment of an independent asset management agency and a separate supervisory body within the Asset Forfeiture Bill. The proposal aims to prevent law enforcement agencies from having sole control over seized assets and to ensure accountability in their management and sale.

Quran Memorisation for Alcohol Case: The Sound Project Reprimands Sponsor

The organiser of The Sounds Project music festival has reprimanded a sponsor after a viral video showed a woman reciting the Quran in exchange for alcohol. The event organiser stated the activity was outside their control and that they do not tolerate blasphemy. Police are investigating the incident, which has drawn widespread condemnation from the Indonesian Ulema Council and lawmakers.

DKI Promotes 40 Assets at JAFEX 2026 with Investment Potential of IDR 22.3 Trillion

The Jakarta provincial government is promoting 40 regional assets with an estimated initial investment potential of IDR 22.37 trillion at the Jakarta Asset Forum & Expo (JAFEX) 2026. Governor Pramono Anung stated that optimising these assets is key to expanding creative financing for the city's development, reducing reliance on the regional budget. The initiative aims to transform public assets into productive spaces such as transit-oriented developments and commercial areas to boost economic activity and public services.

MSCI to Announce Latest Review, IDX Chief Urges Market Participants to Await Outcome

Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) is set to announce its latest index review for the Indonesian capital market on 12 August 2026. The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has confirmed it has communicated all reform actions to MSCI, FTSE Russell, and global investors. IDX President Director Jeffrey Hendrik urged market participants to wait for the decision, which rests entirely with the global index providers.

Customs Foils Shipment of 8.96 Million Illegal Cigarettes at Tanjung Priok

Indonesian Customs officials have intercepted 8.96 million illicit cigarettes at Tanjung Priok Port, preventing an estimated state loss of IDR 8.67 billion. The unbanded cigarettes, valued at IDR 13.31 billion, were discovered in two containers falsely declared as pipes and light steel during a routine inter-island cargo inspection. The Director General of Customs and Excise emphasised the importance of public cooperation in combating the illegal tobacco trade.

Newport Apologises After Alcohol Promotion Linked to Quranic Verse at Music Festival

Newport has issued a public apology after a spontaneous incident at The Sounds Project festival, where an audience member challenged others to recite a Quranic verse for free drinks, sparked widespread outrage. The company clarified the act was not part of its official promotion and acknowledged a failure in crowd supervision. Newport has since conducted an internal evaluation and reinforced its operational guidelines to prevent a recurrence.

Rupiah Plunges 106 Points as Market Warily Eyes MSCI Review

The Indonesian rupiah weakened sharply to Rp17,861 per US dollar on Tuesday, as markets adopted a cautious stance ahead of the upcoming MSCI review. The decline was also influenced by falling consumer confidence, although a slight recovery in retail sales and the nomination of a new central bank governor provided some underlying support.

Key Witness in Saepul Mutilation Case Fled After Smelling Blood

Police have revealed that a housemate of the suspect in a Depok murder and mutilation case fled the scene after detecting the smell of blood. The witness, identified as J, is not considered a suspect, with authorities confirming Saepul acted alone. The victim's dismembered remains were discovered after a resident attempted to burn a sack believed to contain rubbish.

Sea temperature anomaly: BMKG warns of moderate to heavy rain in North Sumatra

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned of moderate to heavy rainfall across North Sumatra over the coming week. The forecast is driven by warm sea surface temperature anomalies in the Indian Ocean and the Malacca Strait, combined with wind shear and convergence along the province's east coast. Local authorities have been urged to coordinate with disaster management agencies and monitor official weather updates.

Cimahi City Government Distributes Rastrada to Maintain Purchasing Power of the Poor

The Cimahi City Government in West Java, in collaboration with Bulog, has distributed regional welfare rice (Rastrada) to 2,227 beneficiary groups to safeguard purchasing power during a prolonged dry season. Each household received 30 kilogrammes of rice, targeting low-income residents not covered by central government programmes such as PKH and BPNT. The initiative aims to ease the burden of staple food expenses and ensure vulnerable groups, including the elderly and disabled, maintain access to essential supplies.

Reading El-Sayed's Victory in Michigan

Abdulrahman Mohamed El-Sayed's primary win in Michigan signals a significant shift within the Democratic Party, mirroring Zohran Mamdani's success in New York. His campaign, built on grassroots organising and a platform of universal healthcare and campaign finance reform, overcame establishment opposition and substantial outside spending. The victory highlights the growing political influence of Arab and Muslim voters, particularly in swing states like Michigan, and their willingness to challenge party orthodoxy on issues such as US policy towards Israel.

When Will Restrictions on Pertalite Purchases Begin? Here's What Purbaya Says

The Indonesian government is preparing a policy to restrict subsidised Pertalite fuel purchases to ensure they are targeted accurately. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated that the implementation date remains undecided as the control system is still being developed, while Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia emphasised the need to stop wealthy households from benefiting from the hundreds of trillions of rupiah in subsidies.

Property Sector Deemed Strategic for National Economy

The Indonesian government highlights the property sector's strategic role in the national economy due to its extensive linkages with 183 sub-sectors. A senior official noted that strengthening the property sector amplifies economic activity and domestic supply chains, while consumer behaviour is shifting towards prioritising quality and long-term investment value.

Former Syrian President Assad Sentenced to Death for War Crimes

A Syrian court has sentenced former president Bashar al-Assad to death in absentia for war crimes and crimes against humanity committed during the country's civil war. The verdict marks the first such ruling by the new authorities against figures from the previous regime. Assad's brother Maher and former security chief Atif Najib were also sentenced to death.

Bali Immigration Nets 66 Problematic Foreign Nationals in One Week

Immigration authorities in Bali have detained 66 foreign nationals from 27 countries during a week-long enforcement operation targeting visa violations and public order disturbances. The operation, which utilised digital surveillance, resulted in 24 individuals being suspected of misusing their residence permits and 20 of overstaying. Officials are conducting further examinations to determine appropriate sanctions, which may include deportation.

Revealed! Protected Forest Illegally Traded, Three Suspects Arrested

Three individuals have been arrested in East Luwu Regency, South Sulawesi, for illegally clearing and cultivating a protected forest area. The suspects were caught converting 1.5 hectares of state forest into a pepper plantation after engaging in informal, illegal land transactions. Authorities emphasised that such practices must be stopped to prevent the spread of encroachment and maintain the ecological function of the forest.

AGO Examines 12 Witnesses in Alleged Corruption of Free Nutritious Meal Programme

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office (AGO) has questioned 12 witnesses in connection with an alleged corruption case involving the management of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme at the National Nutrition Agency (BGN). The witnesses include BGN officials and private sector representatives, as investigators work to gather evidence and trace assets. Seven suspects, including former BGN head Dadan Hindayana, have already been named in the case.

IHSG Plunges 1.53% Back to 6,267 Level, Dragged Down by These Stocks

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) fell sharply by 1.53% to close at 6,267.88 on Tuesday, with nearly all sectors in the red. The decline was primarily driven by large-cap stocks such as DCII and BBCA, amid a broader market downturn where 542 stocks weakened. The sell-off was compounded by global sentiment, including renewed US-Iran tensions that caused oil prices to surge over 5%.

Minister Amran to Distribute Free Agricultural Machinery to Farm Labourers, Here's How

Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman has announced plans to revise regulations so that farm labourers across Indonesia can access free agricultural machinery and equipment. The current rules have prevented many labourers from receiving assistance such as tractors and combine harvesters. The government will also simplify the application process by empowering field agricultural extension officers to submit proposals directly.

Government to Restrict Pertalite Fuel Use for Upper-Income Groups

The Indonesian government plans to restrict subsidised Pertalite petrol purchases for the wealthiest segments of society, specifically targeting the top two income deciles. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa and Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia confirmed the policy aims to ensure the hundreds of trillions of rupiah in fuel subsidies are directed only to those who genuinely need them. The technical system for the restriction is currently under review, with a phased reduction expected once implementation begins.

Financial Inclusion Rises, but Sharia Finance Index Declines

Indonesia's national financial inclusion index rose to 93.61 percent in 2026, yet the sharia financial inclusion index fell to 13.24 percent. An expert from Airlangga University suggests this paradox indicates that while more people have access to formal financial services, they lack sufficient incentive to choose or expand their use of sharia products. The industry is urged to offer more competitive advantages and genuine innovation beyond religious labelling.

Data Transparency Not Enough to Restore MSCI Trust, Says Analyst

Capital market analyst Wahyu Laksono stated that recent data transparency efforts by the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) and the Financial Services Authority (OJK) are insufficient to fully restore MSCI's confidence. He noted that MSCI requires a consistent track record of enforcement, not just new regulations, before lifting the freeze on new Indonesian stocks. Key concerns include weak information flow, the need for proven implementation, and the risk of a downgrade to Frontier Market status.

South Sulawesi Governor: Scouts Are the Seedbed for a Golden Indonesia 2045

South Sulawesi Governor Andi Sudirman Sulaiman has emphasised the strategic role of the Scout Movement in preparing the younger generation for the 'Golden Indonesia 2045' vision. He highlighted that the character traits of independence, discipline, and integrity instilled through scouting are essential for facing future challenges. The Governor also called on scouts to adapt to technological advancements while maintaining a strong commitment to social welfare and environmental care.

Indonesian National Among Three Killed in Attack on Merchant Ship in Bab Al-Mandeb Strait

An Indonesian citizen has been confirmed as one of three fatalities in an attack on a merchant vessel in the Bab Al-Mandeb Strait. Initial reports indicate two Pakistani nationals also died in the incident, which is suspected to have been carried out by Houthi forces in Yemen. The attack highlights the ongoing security risks to commercial shipping in the strategic waterway connecting the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

UI and UAP Forge Partnership to Enhance Education, Research, and Academic Capacity

Universitas Indonesia (UI) and Universitas Agung Podomoro (UAP) have signed a partnership to collaborate on education, research, and academic capacity building. The agreement aims to produce graduates with superior talents, with plans including a potential fast-track programme from UAP's Entrepreneurship undergraduate degree to UI's Vocational School master's programme. Both institutions view the collaboration as a mutual investment in quality, extending to doctoral study opportunities, joint research, and lecturer exchanges.