Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 11 August 2026

Showing 701-750 of 1,526 articles

JCI Closes Down 1.63% at 6,261 as Big Cap Stocks Weigh Heavily

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) plunged 1.63% to close at 6,261.39 on Tuesday, driven by heavy selling pressure on large-capitalisation stocks. The index touched an intraday low of 6,230.10, with 574 stocks declining against only 108 gainers. Total transaction value reached Rp18.2 trillion, with major banks and mining firms among the biggest drags on the market.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Partners with Dukcapil to Strengthen Targeted Energy Subsidy Distribution Using NIK

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has signed a cooperation agreement with the Directorate General of Population and Civil Registration (Dukcapil) to improve the accuracy of subsidised energy distribution. The partnership will enable the use of the National Identity Number (NIK) for verifying and validating recipients of subsidised LPG. This initiative supports the government's goal of ensuring energy subsidies reach the intended beneficiaries across Indonesia.

KSOP Labuan Bajo Sanctions Captain for Sailing During Bad Weather Ban

The Labuan Bajo Port Authority (KSOP) has sanctioned the captain of the Grand Maoloekoe vessel for defying a sailing ban imposed due to severe weather. The captain, identified by the initials DD, had his seafarer's licence suspended for three weeks and was removed from the ship. The vessel was reportedly carrying a group of tourists, including celebrity Jessica Milla, to Komodo National Park at the time of the violation.

BCA Syariah Targets Families and Children to Boost Islamic Financial Inclusion

BCA Syariah is focusing on families and children to address a decline in Indonesia's Islamic financial inclusion index, which fell to 13.24 percent in 2026. The bank has launched the 'BSyA Junior' product for 12 to 17-year-olds, allowing parents to monitor transactions and even start Hajj savings. The lender sees the low literacy rate as a significant growth opportunity and plans to collaborate with schools to introduce Sharia-compliant banking habits from an early age.

Health and Home Affairs Ministries Integrate Systems to Digitise Birth Certificate Issuance

The Indonesian government is integrating its SATUSEHAT health platform with the civil registry system to streamline the issuance of birth certificates for newborns. This initiative aims to resolve data discrepancies between agencies and simplify administrative processes for approximately 4.8 million births annually. The integration is part of a broader push towards electronic-based government and will eventually include data from the Religious Affairs and Social Affairs ministries.

Kiaracondong Street Vendors Relocated, West Java Government Provides 800 Kiosks at BTM Market

The West Java provincial government, in coordination with Bandung city authorities, has cleared illegal structures and street vendors from the Kiaracondong area to restore public road and pavement functions. As a relocation measure, approximately 800 kiosks have been prepared at the Bandung Trade Mall, with affected traders offered three months' free rent to ease the transition. The initiative aims to balance urban order with the economic livelihoods of small-scale traders.

AHY: Quality Human Resources Key to Realising Indonesia Emas 2045

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) has emphasised that high-quality human resources are the primary foundation for achieving the Indonesia Emas 2045 vision. Speaking to new students at UPN Veteran Jakarta, he highlighted the strategic role of the younger generation in navigating global changes and seizing economic opportunities. AHY urged students to build competence, character, and leadership skills to contribute to the nation's future.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Maps Waqf Assets Nationwide to Secure Legal Status and Boost Public Benefit

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs is conducting a comprehensive mapping of waqf assets across the country, including land, mosques, and documentation, to ensure legal clarity and prevent disputes. The initiative aims to strengthen administrative order from the village level upwards, involving digital data updates and coordination with various national bodies. The ministry emphasises that well-managed waqf assets can become a key part of community welfare solutions.

BCA Syariah Profit Grows 9.2 Percent Despite Rising Cost of Funds

PT Bank BCA Syariah reported a 9.2 percent increase in after-tax profit to Rp109.4 billion for the first half of 2026, driven by strong financing growth. The bank's financing portfolio expanded 20.5 percent year-on-year to Rp13.6 trillion, though rising funding costs remain a challenge. BCA Syariah's director noted that market deposit rates remain high at 8-9 percent despite Bank Indonesia's benchmark rate cuts.

Government Accelerates Investment Through Debottlenecking Task Force

The Indonesian government is intensifying efforts to remove investment barriers by strengthening its Debottlenecking Task Force. The initiative focuses on resolving licensing, spatial planning, and land issues to boost capital inflows. This comes as investment realisation grew 7.2% year-on-year in the first half of 2026, reaching Rp 1,010.6 trillion.

70-Year-Old Man Arrested for Raping Neighbour's Teenager in Bogor

A 70-year-old man has been arrested in Rancabungur, Bogor, for allegedly raping a 15-year-old girl, resulting in her pregnancy. The suspect, identified by the initials DUM, had initially fled the area but was apprehended by residents upon his return. Police have transferred the case to the Bogor Police Resort for specialised handling due to the victim's age.

Jambore Pemuda Adat Domberay Becomes a Space for Cultural Interaction in Southwest Papua

The Domberay Indigenous Youth Jamboree in Southwest Papua is expected to serve as a vital platform for cultural interaction and the preservation of local traditions. Ahmad Nausrau emphasised the importance of passing down the region's rich cultural and linguistic diversity to future generations. He also called on young people to promote Papua's cultural wealth to strengthen national unity.

East Java Tourism Office Dismisses Tourism Ambassador Over Alleged Abortion Coercion

The East Java Culture and Tourism Office (Disbudpar) has officially dismissed Tio Ferdian Rahmana as a provincial tourism ambassador following an ethics hearing. The decision comes after allegations surfaced that he coerced his girlfriend into having an abortion. The office has also required him to return all attributes and prizes, and will not appoint a replacement for his title.

MIND ID: Human Capital Key to Sustainable Economic Growth Beyond Mining

MIND ID emphasises that human capital development is crucial for ensuring the economic benefits of mining outlast the operational life of mines. The state-owned mining holding company highlights the importance of investing in people to create added value and build a more productive economic foundation for the future.

Customs Foils Smuggling of 8.96 Million Illegal Cigarettes via Train

Indonesian Customs and Excise (Bea Cukai) has intercepted 8.96 million illicit cigarettes in Tanjung Priok Port, marking the first time authorities have uncovered a smuggling operation using rail cargo. The seizure, valued at Rp13.30 billion in goods with potential state losses of Rp8.66 billion, involved two containers shipped from Surabaya. Officials are now working with the police to investigate and pursue other parties involved in the network.

Home Affairs Minister to Issue Circular on Reporting Births Outside Health Facilities

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian is preparing a circular instructing village heads to report births occurring outside health facilities to enable digital birth certificate issuance. The initiative builds on the integration of the SatuSehat health data platform with civil registry data, which now allows digital birth certificates to be issued immediately after birth. The circular will also require village heads to promptly report deaths to local civil registry offices to streamline death certificate issuance and improve population data accuracy.

Deputy Minister of Culture Supports Establishment of Dedicated Cultural Agency in Southwest Papua

Deputy Minister of Culture Giring Ganesha has expressed strong support for the establishment of a dedicated Cultural Agency in Southwest Papua Province. He emphasised that a specialised institutional framework is crucial for the focused and sustainable development of the region's rich cultural heritage. Giring also called on indigenous youth to become key actors in preserving and innovating their ancestral traditions.

Customs Foils Shipment of 8.96 Million Illegal Cigarettes at Tanjung Priok Port

Customs officials at Tanjung Priok Port have intercepted two containers carrying 8.96 million illegal cigarettes from East Java bound for Sumatra. The contraband, declared as pipes and light steel, is valued at Rp 13.3 billion with potential state losses estimated at Rp 8.67 billion. The operation underscores ongoing efforts to combat illicit excise goods and protect state revenue.

Minister Fadli Zon: AI Must Be a Tool to Advance Culture

Minister of Culture Fadli Zon has stated that artificial intelligence should be viewed positively as a tool to accelerate the advancement of culture. He emphasised that while AI is an inevitability, it cannot replace human values and civilisation. The government is seeking policy recommendations to strengthen the position of the humanities in the face of technological development.

BNPB Urges Integration of Disaster Risk Maps into Spatial Planning and Infrastructure Policies

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has called for disaster risk maps to be integrated into regional spatial planning and infrastructure development policies. The move is seen as crucial to preventing new risks and enhancing national resilience. The recommendation was made during a technical coordination meeting in Bogor, which brought together representatives from 37 provinces.

Indonesia's Trade Deficit Narrows in June 2026 as Exports Pick Up

Indonesia's trade deficit narrowed to $0.45 billion in June 2026, improving from a $1.61 billion deficit in May, driven by a rise in non-oil and gas exports. The government is focusing on expanding export markets and fostering new exporters to maintain the positive trade momentum.

ESDM Non-Tax Revenue Reaches IDR 96.26 Trillion, PP AMPG Applauds Minister Bahlil's Performance

Indonesia's non-tax state revenue (PNBP) from the energy and mineral resources (ESDM) sector reached IDR 96.26 trillion by July 2026, achieving 70.69 percent of the annual target. The Central Board of the Golkar Party's Young Force (PP AMPG) praised Minister Bahlil Lahadalia for this performance, noting it follows the previous year's success where PNBP exceeded the target. The organisation also commended the ministry for maintaining an unqualified opinion (WTP) from the national audit board, highlighting accountable and transparent financial management.

Coordinating Minister Airlangga to Raise Indonesian MSME Financing Target, Encouraging Business Upgrading

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has proposed increasing the financing target for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from Rp1,500 trillion to Rp2,000 trillion. The policy aims to broaden access to credit for MSMEs, particularly those with growth potential that have not yet received adequate funding. The announcement was made during the OJK's UMKM Finance Summit 2026.

4.5 Million Indonesian Children Lack Birth Certificates, Vulnerable to Human Trafficking

Approximately 4.5 million Indonesian children, or 6% of the under-17 population, lack birth certificates, leaving them vulnerable to human trafficking and sexual violence. The government has launched a digital integration between the health and civil registration systems to enable same-day issuance of birth certificates at healthcare facilities. The initiative aims to eliminate administrative delays, with officials stressing that the state must be present from a child's first day of life.

Indonesia's F&B exports hit $6.25 billion, ranking 4th in ASEAN

Indonesia's food and beverage exports have reached US$6.25 billion, placing the country fourth among ASEAN nations, according to Deputy Minister of Trade Dyah Roro Esti. Thailand leads the region with US$17 billion, followed by Vietnam and Singapore. The Ministry of Trade is leveraging its network of trade attachés and promotion centres across 33 countries to help local producers expand internationally, with particular emphasis on the halal market in the Middle East and the Indonesian diaspora.

BPK Urges BSSN to Maintain Governance Improvements After All Audit Recommendations Completed

The National Cyber and Crypto Agency (BSSN) has fully implemented all previous audit recommendations from the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) and secured an unqualified opinion (WTP) for its 2025 financial report. BPK member Nyoman Adhi Suryadnyana praised BSSN as a responsive and responsible government institution, noting its contribution to improving Indonesia's Global Cybersecurity Index. Despite the clean opinion, BPK identified areas requiring improvement, including fixed asset management and overpayments on certain procurement packages.

Kejagung Examines Secretary to Head of BGN in MBG Programme Corruption Case

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has examined the Secretary to the Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) as a witness in a corruption investigation concerning the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The official, identified by the initials RRNWP, was one of 12 witnesses questioned on Tuesday out of 22 summoned. The investigation is probing alleged irregularities in the programme's management, including affiliations with managing foundations and price markups in procurement.

BGN Enforces Zero Tolerance on Food Poisoning in Free Nutritious Meal Programme

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has affirmed a zero-tolerance policy towards food poisoning cases in the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The agency is strengthening services, supervision, and monitoring through collaboration with all stakeholders, including schools and teachers. Students have also been reminded not to take meals home to avoid potential food safety risks outside the organiser's supervision.

SMAN 1 Jonggat Closed After Students Protest Over School Facilities

SMAN 1 Jonggat in Central Lombok was temporarily closed on Tuesday after hundreds of students staged a protest over inadequate facilities. The school headmaster stated the closure was to allow a meeting with education officials to address the students' concerns. The protest, which turned unruly, highlighted complaints about broken toilets, a mosque, and non-functional fans and lighting.

Minister Yassierli: 46,160 Participants to Join MagangHub Programme Batch II

Indonesia's Manpower Minister Yassierli announced that 46,160 university graduates have been selected for the second batch of the national internship programme, MagangHub, starting 10 August 2026. The six-month programme is a government initiative under the 2026 economic stimulus package designed to ease the transition of graduates into the workforce through real work experience and mentorship. The programme involves 3,672 host organisations, including private companies and government institutions, selected from over 244,000 qualified applicants.

66 Foreign Nationals from 27 Countries Arrested in Bali for Immigration Violations

Indonesian immigration authorities in Bali have detained 66 foreign nationals from 27 countries during a week-long enforcement operation. The arrests were part of the 'Dharma Dewata' patrol, targeting offences such as visa misuse, overstaying, and public order disturbances.

Six Regencies in NTT Placed on Alert Status for Meteorological Drought

Six regencies in East Nusa Tenggara have been placed on alert status for meteorological drought by Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG). The extreme dry conditions, marked by over 61 days without rain, are threatening water supplies and agriculture, while police have begun distributing clean water to affected communities.

Social Affairs Ministry: Economic stimulus to anticipate El Nino impact under assessment

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs is mapping and assessing the need for economic stimulus and additional aid for communities affected by the El Nino-induced drought. Minister Saifullah Yusuf confirmed teams have been deployed to coordinate with local governments on appropriate intervention schemes. The government is prepared to provide extra support, particularly for extremely poor households, while regular social protection programmes continue as scheduled.

Government Cannot Automatically Seize Joint Marital Assets in Corruption Cases, Says Expert

Legal expert Bambang Harymurti has urged the government not to automatically consider a spouse's legitimate share of joint marital property as proceeds of crime. He stressed that courts must determine the rightful owner of assets based on evidence, not merely family relationships. Bambang also proposed a clear temporal link between the alleged crime and the acquisition of assets.

Integrated National Schools to holistically develop students' potential, says minister

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has stated that Integrated National Schools (SNT) aim to support the optimal development of students' potential and aspirations. Minister Abdul Mu'ti emphasised that the integration encompasses the entire educational ecosystem, not just school levels and buildings. The approach is designed to help students discover their strengths, develop talents, and build character for their future.

Police Investigate Alleged Blasphemy at The Sounds Project Festival in Ancol

Indonesian police are investigating a suspected blasphemy case after a viral video showed a festival attendee reading a Quranic verse during a challenge at The Sounds Project in Ancol, North Jakarta. The event organiser has apologised, stating the activity was conducted without their direction or approval. Authorities are summoning the organiser and master of ceremonies for questioning as part of the ongoing inquiry.

Government Pushes Task Force to Unravel Investment Bottlenecks

The Indonesian government is accelerating efforts to resolve investment obstacles through a dedicated Debottlenecking Task Force. The initiative, coordinated by the Presidential Staff Office, aims to tackle issues related to licensing, spatial planning, and land acquisition. This move follows a reported 7.2% year-on-year investment growth in the first half of 2026, with the government also preparing 19 priority downstreaming projects worth Rp 228 trillion.

OJK Responds to BNBR's Special Notation G Status

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has clarified the implications of the special notation 'G' assigned to PT Bakrie & Brothers Tbk (BNBR). The notation indicates the company has received an administrative sanction for a moderate violation of capital market regulations. The regulator emphasised that such notations serve as a crucial warning for investors and a prompt for the company to improve its governance.

Pramono Prepares Cloud Seeding to Tackle Jakarta's Air Pollution

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has announced plans to use cloud seeding to induce rain and reduce air pollution in the capital, which has experienced a prolonged dry spell. The artificial rain operation is contingent on suitable cloud conditions and aims to help cleanse the atmosphere of pollutants.

Indo Water 2026 Expo & Forum Gathers Global Technology Innovations

The Indo Water 2026 Expo & Forum, alongside five other sectoral exhibitions, has opened in Jakarta, bringing together over 700 participants from 23 countries. Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono opened the event, emphasising that water security is a top national priority requiring collaboration between government, industry, and academia. The event also marked 25 years of the Indo Water exhibition and featured the launch of a new identity for the Indo Firex, Rescue & Disaster Expo.

BPJS Kesehatan and Jakarta Archdiocese Forge Collaboration to Boost JKN Literacy

BPJS Kesehatan is partnering with the Jakarta Archdiocese to expand public understanding of the National Health Insurance (JKN) programme through a new initiative called SYAIR JKN. The collaboration aims to leverage the influence of religious leaders to educate the public on their rights and obligations, ensuring the sustainability of the programme. With over 284 million participants, the focus is now shifting from expanding coverage to improving active membership and health literacy.

Bambang: Asset Forfeiture Bill Must Not Become a Political Tool

Bambang Harymurti has warned that the Asset Forfeiture Bill must include explicit safeguards to prevent it from being used to silence political opponents, intimidate journalists, or settle personal disputes. Speaking at a hearing with the House of Representatives' Commission III, he stressed that the law must not rely on the goodwill of current officials but should be built on strong legal structures that make abuse difficult.

Riau Police Expedition Distributes Flags and Aid to Fishermen in Remote Waters

The Pelalawan Police's Water and Air Unit conducted an expedition to the remote waters of Kuala Kampar to distribute Indonesian flags and social assistance to local fishermen. The initiative, part of the 'Precision Red and White Expedition', aims to foster nationalism and strengthen community ties ahead of the 81st Independence Day. Officials stated the programme demonstrates the police force's commitment to serving communities in the nation's outermost regions.

SBY to Miss Annual Session and 81st Independence Day Ceremony Due to Medical Check-Up in the US

Former Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono will be absent from the MPR Annual Session and the 81st Independence Day ceremony at the State Palace. Democratic Party Deputy Chairman Benny K. Harman confirmed SBY is undergoing a medical check-up in the United States until the end of August. The annual parliamentary session is scheduled for 14 August 2026, with other former leaders, including Jusuf Kalla, confirming their attendance.

Oona Insurance Boss Opens Up About Electric Vehicle Insurance Risks

Oona Insurance Indonesia's CEO, Vincent Soegianto, highlights the higher loss ratios for electric vehicles compared to conventional cars, making many insurers hesitant. He stresses that collaboration between insurers and multi-finance companies is crucial to ensure asset protection and sustain the EV ecosystem's growth.

Depok Mutilation Suspect Saepul Carries HIV Medication During Crime Reconstruction

Saepul, the suspect in a mutilation case in Depok, was seen carrying HIV medication during a police reconstruction of the murder. The suspect re-enacted 51 scenes, including the stabbing, dismemberment, and disposal of the victim's body parts. Police stated the medication was a necessity due to his medical condition.

ESR and INA Expand Partnership to Develop New Logistics Hub in Indonesia

ESR Group, in partnership with the Indonesia Investment Authority (INA), has commenced construction on two new institutional-grade logistics facilities in Cikarang, West Java. The projects, which include a large non-captive warehouse in Jababeka and a three-storey distribution hub in MM2100 Industrial Town, aim to meet growing demand from international 3PL providers and multinational manufacturers. The developments are expected to bolster Indonesia's supply chain infrastructure, with completions targeted for 2027 and 2028 respectively.

Meta's Zuckerberg Warns US Risks Losing AI Race to China, Calls for Policy Overhaul

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has urged the US government to slash regulations on artificial intelligence, warning that restrictive policies are allowing Chinese rivals to dominate the open-source AI market. The call to action coincided with Meta's launch of its new open-weight model, Muse Glimmer, designed for local agentic tasks. Zuckerberg also announced a $1 billion community fund to ease tensions over massive data centre expansions, highlighting the competitive threat posed by China's more agile AI development environment.

Indonesia's F&B exports hit $6.25 billion, ranking 4th in ASEAN

Indonesia's food and beverage exports have reached US$6.25 billion, placing the country fourth in ASEAN behind Thailand, Vietnam, and Singapore. The Ministry of Trade is actively working to boost this figure by leveraging its network of trade attachés and promotion centres across 33 countries to connect local producers with international buyers. Particular emphasis is being placed on the halal market in the Middle East and catering to the Indonesian diaspora.

Former Minister Yaqut Denies Receiving Rp1,000 in Hajj Quota Corruption Case

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has denied receiving any money related to the alleged corruption of additional hajj quotas for 2023-2024. He claimed not to understand the indictment, which accuses him of receiving US$271,500, stating that the funds were received by other parties. His legal team argued the charges were forced and lacked detailed explanation of how the money was allegedly obtained or transferred.