Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 11 August 2026

Showing 851-900 of 1,526 articles

Pertamina Partners with Dukcapil to Strengthen Subsidised LPG Beneficiary Data

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has signed a cooperation agreement with the Directorate General of Population and Civil Registration (Dukcapil) to improve the verification and validation of subsidised LPG recipients. The partnership aims to ensure that the distribution of 3 kg LPG cylinders is more targeted by integrating the national identity number (NIK) verification system. This initiative supports the government's policy on transforming LPG subsidies to reach the intended beneficiaries.

House Commission III Urges Police to Thoroughly Investigate Death of Winda Lorenza Gowasa

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III has urged the Medan Police to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into the death of Winda Lorenza Gowasa, who was allegedly shot by her ex-husband, a police officer. The commission held a closed-door hearing with the victim's family and police officials, citing the ongoing investigation and respect for the grieving family. Four conclusions were issued, including a demand for a professional and accountable inquiry in accordance with the law.

BI: Processing Industry Bolsters Central Java's Economy

Bank Indonesia has identified the processing industry and trade as the main pillars of Central Java's robust economic growth in the second quarter of 2026. The processing industry saw a significant year-on-year increase, driven by a surge in exports of textiles, furniture, and footwear. Consumer spending during the Idul Adha holiday and the 2026 World Cup also boosted trade and the accommodation and food service sectors.

OJK Responds to Discourse on Istiqlal Mosque Entering the Stock Exchange via Productive Waqf

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has stated that the proposal for Istiqlal Mosque to enter the Indonesian capital market through productive waqf management is still a discourse. Capital Market Executive Head Hasan Fawzi noted that while investment instruments and intermediary institutions are available, the regulator is awaiting clarity on the specific scheme before it can proceed.

Situbondo Government Launches KSP Breakthrough for Pasir Putih Marine Tourism

The Situbondo Regency Government has initiated a new Cooperation of Utilisation (KSP) scheme to revitalise the iconic Pasir Putih Beach, which has seen stagnant development for two decades. Bupati Yusuf Rio Wahyu Prayogo stated that the partnership with a professional third party aims to overcome budget constraints and transform the destination into a regional economic driver. The initiative is expected to boost local revenue, create jobs, and stimulate the growth of small businesses in the area.

DPR Holds Meeting with Government and KPA to Address Urgent Agrarian Conflicts

The House of Representatives (DPR) convened a coordination meeting with government ministries and the Consortium for Agrarian Reform (KPA) to tackle pressing agrarian conflicts. DPR Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad stressed that these recurring land disputes require immediate resolution, bypassing lengthy legislative processes. The meeting aimed to secure direct decisions from attending ministers and officials on specific cases.

State Secretary Says Ride-Hailing Drivers Will Still Receive Holiday Bonuses Despite UMKM Status

State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has confirmed that ride-hailing drivers will continue to receive holiday bonus payments (BHR) even as their status changes to micro, small, and medium enterprises (UMKM) under a new presidential regulation. He stated the government can use its veto power as a shareholder in one of the major app companies to enforce the policy, noting that bonuses this year have already doubled compared to last year. The regulation is still being finalised, but Hadi assured there will be no drastic changes to the substance, while the current mandatory revenue split of 92% for drivers and 8% for applicators is already being implemented.

Musim Mas and Deli Serdang Regency Government Inaugurate Percut Sei Tuan Square, Providing Public Space for Community and MSMEs

Musim Mas, in collaboration with the Deli Serdang Regency Government, has inaugurated a new public square in Percut Sei Tuan, North Sumatra. The multifunctional space features sports facilities, a children's playground, and dedicated areas for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The initiative is part of the company's corporate social responsibility programme and aims to stimulate local economic activity whilst supporting the regency's 'Healthy Deli Serdang' vision.

Invitations for 81st Independence Day Sent to Former Presidents and Vice Presidents

The Indonesian government has begun dispatching official invitations to former presidents and vice presidents for the 81st Independence Day ceremony on 17 August 2026. State Secretariat Minister Prasetyo Hadi confirmed that officials are personally delivering the invitations. The public response has been overwhelming, with over 336,000 registrations for the initially available 5,500 public seats, prompting the government to add 3,400 more slots.

Jakarta Prepares Cloud Seeding to Curb Air Pollution

The Jakarta provincial government is preparing cloud seeding operations to reduce severe air pollution in the capital, which has been exacerbated by a prolonged dry spell. Governor Pramono Anung stated the artificial rain technique depends on suitable atmospheric conditions and the presence of clouds. The intervention is viewed as the most viable short-term solution to wash away pollutants while natural rainfall remains absent.

Colombia Declares National Disaster Status After 7.4-Magnitude Earthquake

Colombian authorities have declared a national state of disaster following a powerful earthquake that struck the country, with President Abelardo de la Espriella ordering the mobilisation of resources to affected areas. The tremor, initially reported as magnitude 6.8 and later revised to 7.4, has resulted in at least 111 fatalities. Rescue teams from several cities have been deployed to assist with evacuation efforts in the hardest-hit regions.

Middle East Targeted as Market for Indonesian Halal Food and Beverage Products, Here's Why

Indonesia's Trade Ministry is targeting the Middle East as a key market for expanding exports of halal food and beverages. The region's demand for halal products aligns with Indonesia's strengths, while the government also sees opportunities among the Indonesian diaspora and through the international expansion of local restaurant chains. Officials emphasised that exporters must meet the specific quality standards of each destination country to successfully penetrate global markets.

Indonesia’s strong El Niño brings drought, fires and an unexpected salt boom

Indonesia is grappling with a strong El Niño phase that has intensified drought, water shortages, and forest fires across the archipelago, with over 107,000 hectares already burned. While the dry conditions threaten food security and have forced school closures due to haze, the government is leveraging substantial rice reserves and mitigation measures. The same weather pattern is creating an economic windfall for traditional salt farmers, with production surging dramatically compared to the previous wet year, and may also benefit parts of the marine fishing industry.

OJK Prepares Rules on IDX Share Ownership Limits After Demutualisation

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) is drafting regulations to impose maximum share ownership limits on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) following its demutualisation. The regulator will allow certain parties, including state institutions and strategic partners, to exceed these limits only after undergoing a specific assessment and approval process. The OJK is currently studying international best practices to determine the exact threshold for the ownership cap.

DeTect Secures Contract to Supply MERLIN™ True3D® Bird Detection Radar to Jakarta's Soekarno-Hatta Airport

US-based DeTect, Inc. has been awarded a contract to install its advanced MERLIN bird detection radar system at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta. The technology aims to enhance wildlife hazard management by providing real-time alerts to air traffic control and ground operations. The system will be manufactured in the United States and the project managed from DeTect's Asia Pacific office in South Korea.

Caution: 17 August Competitions May Contain Elements of Gambling

An Islamic scholar has warned that traditional competitions held during Indonesia's Independence Day celebrations could be classified as gambling if they involve betting. Ustaz Luky Nugroho explained that the permissibility hinges on whether the event includes a wager of assets between two or more parties. He outlined specific criteria, such as direct or indirect betting and the presence of a winner-takes-all system, that would render such games forbidden under Islamic law.

PBNU Deplores Qur'an Memorisation Challenge for Alcohol: Investigate Thoroughly

Indonesia's largest Islamic organisation, Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU), has strongly condemned a promotional event at a Jakarta music festival that offered alcohol as a reward for reciting a chapter of the Qur'an. The organisation has called for a thorough police investigation and urged event organisers to ensure such an incident, deemed disrespectful to the holy book, is not repeated. Police in North Jakarta have confirmed they are investigating the matter and will question witnesses.

Chinese Car Brands in Indonesia Grow Increasingly Aggressive: BYD Overtakes Honda, Jaecoo-Geely Pose a Threat

Chinese automotive brands are rapidly gaining ground in the Indonesian market, with BYD overtaking Honda to secure a top-five sales position in the first seven months of 2026. Overall vehicle distribution rose 18.3% year-on-year, signalling a market recovery. The rise of brands like BYD, Jaecoo, and Geely is reshaping a landscape long dominated by Japanese manufacturers.

Danantara Targets PSEL Groundbreaking in Yogyakarta by End of 2026

Indonesia's Danantara investment body is targeting the groundbreaking for a waste-to-energy plant (PSEL) in Yogyakarta by December 2026, with construction set to begin in early 2027. The project, located on a 5.7-hectare site near the former Piyungan integrated waste facility, will serve three local governments that require external support for waste management.

Joint Customs Team in Langsa Foils Motorcycle Smuggling Attempt

A joint operation by Langsa and Medan Customs officials has thwarted the smuggling of large motorcycles and spare parts in Aceh Tamiang. The operation, which involved a land pursuit after a sea patrol was halted by bad weather, resulted in the seizure of goods valued at Rp1.8 billion. The driver fled the scene and is currently being sought by authorities.

DPR Urges Government to Provide Training and Financing Access for Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers

The House of Representatives (DPR) has called on the government to follow up on the new classification of online motorcycle taxi (ojol) drivers as micro-enterprise operators by providing training, empowerment, and access to financing. The policy, which affects over seven million drivers, aims to provide legal certainty and strengthen social and economic protections for gig workers. A senior legislator noted that while digital platforms create employment, they also present regulatory challenges that must be addressed.

Dry Season Triggers Surge in Cirebon Fires, Up to 14 Incidents a Day

The number of fires in Cirebon Regency has surged dramatically during the 2026 dry season, with 168 incidents recorded by July, already exceeding the total for all of 2025. July alone saw 77 fires, including 54 land fires, with firefighters tackling up to 14 separate blazes in a single day. Authorities are urging residents to inspect electrical installations and exercise caution with open flames to prevent further outbreaks.

In Front of AHY, Pramono Mentions Jakarta Budget Cuts: Don't Add More

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has appealed against further cuts to the capital's regional budget while speaking at an event attended by Coordinating Minister Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono. Pramono emphasised the need for creative financing schemes, including the planned issuance of Rp 5.2 trillion in municipal bonds next year, to reduce reliance on the APBD. He argued that alternative funding sources are essential to sustain development and transform Jakarta into a global city amid fiscal constraints.

Man Who Harassed Chinese Tourist in Lovina 'Summoned' by Village Officials, Family Issues Statement

Local village authorities in Kalibukbuk, Buleleng, Bali, have intervened after a video went viral showing a local man sexually harassing a female Chinese tourist in the Lovina area. The perpetrator, identified as Wayan Sedana, was summoned to the village office for questioning and guidance, while his family admitted he is difficult to control. Village officials have issued a stern warning and secured a written commitment from the family to supervise him, though they have not yet classified him as mentally ill.

Brigadier IH Placed in Special Detention for 20 Days Over Ex-Wife's Death

A North Sumatra police brigadier has been placed in special detention for 20 days following the death of his ex-wife, who was found with a gunshot wound. The detention relates to his negligence in securing his service firearm, which was allegedly used in the incident. Police are investigating the death, with initial findings suggesting suicide, though the case has prompted internal disciplinary action.

Fit and Proper Test for BI Governor Candidate Destry to Be Held Soon

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) is set to schedule a fit and proper test for Destry Damayanti, the sole candidate for Bank Indonesia Governor, after the recess period ends on 14 August 2026. Commission XI Deputy Chairman Muhammad Hanif Dhakiri praised her extensive experience and professionalism, expressing confidence in her ability to navigate global economic challenges. President Prabowo Subianto formally nominated Damayanti, who currently serves as acting governor, following the resignation of Perry Warjiyo.

OJK Reveals MSME Financing Reaches Rp 1,948 Trillion

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) reported that total financing for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across all sectors reached Rp 1,948.72 trillion as of June 2026, marking a 2.16% year-on-year increase. The banking sector continues to dominate the lending landscape, accounting for over 82% of the total, although the capital market sector recorded the highest growth rate. The OJK emphasised the need for a more integrated ecosystem to address persistent barriers such as limited business capacity and formal legality that prevent many MSMEs from accessing formal financing.

Deputy Minister: Global Game Entry Opens Opportunities to Develop Local Talent

Deputy Minister for Creative Economy Irene Umar stated that the official entry of global gaming companies into Indonesia provides local developers with crucial access to game development ecosystems. She highlighted that while Indonesian talent is globally recognised, a lack of access to development kits for console platforms remains a key obstacle. The government is pushing for these global firms to bring their entire ecosystem, including training, to help local developers penetrate international markets commercially.

Dedi Congor Named Graft Suspect by Police, KPK Confirms Customs Probe Continues

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed its investigation into import irregularities at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise will proceed, despite the National Police's anti-corruption unit separately naming Ahmad 'Dedi Congor' as a suspect in a different graft case. The KPK stressed the two probes involve distinct objects, with its own case focusing on alleged corruption in imports. Dedi Congor is suspected of receiving Rp 30 billion from a cargo company executive in the KPK's case, while the police case relates to alleged gratuities received between 2008 and 2016.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Affirms President Prabowo's Support for National Internship Programme

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya confirmed President Prabowo Subianto's full support for the National Internship Programme, evidenced by an increase in the participant quota. Interns will receive wages aligned with the local minimum wage, with those in Jakarta expected to earn around Rp5.7 million. Nearly 40 per cent of last year's interns secured permanent employment, highlighting the programme's success in bridging the gap between training and industry needs.

Eras Tour Tickets Held for Ransom by Hacker Who Breached Ticketmaster

A Canadian hacker who infiltrated Ticketmaster's systems held Taylor Swift's Eras Tour tickets for ransom, exploiting the massive demand for the concerts. The cybercriminal targeted shows in three major US cities, forcing the company to implement emergency security measures. He now faces a minimum of two years and up to 30 years in prison after pleading guilty to computer fraud and identity theft.

Pramono Unveils Major Infrastructure Projects to Transform Jakarta's Cityscape

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has outlined several key infrastructure projects aimed at giving the capital a new look, including the completion of the MRT to Monas and a pedestrian deck at Dukuh Atas. He also announced plans for Transjakarta to manage transportation to the Thousand Islands, moving away from the current management by the Transportation Agency. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to improve connectivity and are being funded through creative financing schemes beyond the regional budget.

House Commission II Welcomes Government Policy to Prevent PPPK Layoffs

The House of Representatives' Commission II has endorsed the government's plan to provide additional fiscal support to regional administrations, aiming to prevent the layoff of government contract workers (PPPK) due to budget constraints. The measures include disbursing underpaid profit-sharing funds (DBH) and topping up general allocation funds (DAU) for regions with high personnel expenditure. The commission also supports a proposal to reclassify certain PPPK roles, such as teachers and health workers, as central government employees to alleviate local fiscal burdens and address staffing imbalances.

Police Match Data and Evidence in School Weapons Case, Use DNA to Identify Suspects

Indonesian police are matching data and evidence after discovering weapons at a private school in Pondok Pinang, South Jakarta. The investigation includes DNA sampling from three rooms to identify individuals who had access to the storage areas. Authorities are also probing the legality of the weapons, which reportedly stemmed from a sports shooting cooperation agreement between the school's foundation and a company.

Government Finalises Presidential Regulation on Ride-Hailing, Completes Several Formulas

The Indonesian government is finalising a presidential regulation on ride-hailing services, with State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi confirming that substantive principles have been agreed. The regulation will include updated business model formulas and aims to ensure smooth implementation without disrupting existing operations. It also proposes classifying ride-hailing drivers as micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), granting them working hour flexibility and access to incentives, while exempting them from taxation on incomes around Rp10-15 million.

Police arrest two suspects in assault on South Sumatra police officer

Police in Palembang have arrested two men suspected of violently assaulting and robbing a South Sumatra Police officer. The victim, an Aiptu-ranked officer, was attacked with a wooden block and a sharp weapon after a dispute over a transport fare. The police chief stated the arrests demonstrate a firm commitment to eradicating street crime in the city.

Full Details: Prabowo's Aid to Regional Governments for PNS-PPPK Salaries

The central government has disbursed Rp 18.9 trillion in financial assistance to 497 regional governments facing fiscal pressure, following a direct directive from President Prabowo Subianto. The funds, transferred on 7 August 2026, are primarily intended to cover civil servant (PNS) and contract-based government employee (PPPK) salary shortfalls. The Ministry of Finance identified a total budget deficit of Rp 20.8 trillion across the regions before the aid was allocated.

Kukar Police Arrest Nine Suspects in Tabang Assault, Confirm Incident Not Sectarian

Police in Kutai Kartanegara, East Kalimantan, have arrested nine suspects following a fatal assault in Tabang District that left one man dead and another seriously injured. The incident, which occurred on 5 August 2026, sparked local unrest including the burning of a food stall, but authorities have since restored order. Officials stressed the attack was a purely criminal matter with no links to ethnic, religious, racial, or inter-group tensions.

BNPP RI Secures 12th Unqualified Opinion, Reinforcing Budget Accountability in Border Area Management

Indonesia's National Border Management Agency (BNPP RI) has received an Unqualified Opinion (WTP) from the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) for its 2025 financial report, marking the twelfth consecutive year of the achievement. The agency emphasised that the audit result serves as a crucial evaluation tool for improving financial governance rather than an end goal. The findings will be used to strengthen accountability, transparency, and compliance in managing state finances for border area programmes.

BNPB: Forest and Land Fires in Magetan and Jombang Extinguished in Under 24 Hours

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) reported that forest and land fires in Magetan and Jombang, East Java, were successfully extinguished within 24 hours. Rapid coordination between regional disaster agencies, firefighters, the military, police, and local residents was key to containing the fires. Authorities are investigating the cause of the Magetan fire, while the Jombang blaze was attributed to negligence involving unsupervised waste burning.

AHY Slams Red Tape That 'Ping-Pongs' Investors: Don't Make It Difficult

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) has criticised bureaucratic hurdles that complicate investment in Indonesia. Speaking at the Jakarta Asset and Finance Forum, he stressed that investors seek clarity and legal certainty, not to be 'ping-ponged' between agencies. AHY called on all levels of government to create a more responsive and inviting investment climate.

Government Launches Digital Birth Certificate Service Integrated with Healthcare Facilities

The Indonesian government has launched a digital birth certificate issuance service integrated with healthcare facilities, enabling birth data recorded at clinics to be directly linked to civil registration. The initiative, part of the broader Electronic-Based Government System (SPBE), aims to streamline administrative processes and improve the accuracy of public services, including social aid distribution. The integration between the Health Ministry's SATUSEHAT platform and the civil registry's SIAK system allows certificates to be issued immediately upon birth registration.

Batam Tax Office Brings Services to Shopping Malls Every Week

The Batam Regional Revenue Agency (Bapenda) has launched a weekly programme to provide tax services in shopping malls, aiming to improve accessibility for residents. The 'SiBijak Ngemall' initiative uses a mobile office bus to offer services including payments, data changes, and consultations, with non-cash transactions encouraged. The agency is intensifying efforts to meet its 2026 locally-generated revenue target, noting strong performance in property transfer tax and vehicle tax surcharge collections.

Government Digitises Birth Certificates, Integrates Public Services

The Indonesian government has launched a digital birth certificate service integrated with healthcare facilities to streamline administrative processes. The initiative, part of the broader Electronic-Based Government System (SPBE), aims to issue certificates immediately after a birth is recorded. Officials highlighted that integrated population data will also improve the accuracy of other public services, including social assistance distribution.

Roads Around Presidential Palace Closed for 81st Independence Day Preparations

State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has apologised for traffic adjustments and road closures around the Presidential Palace in Jakarta as preparations intensify for the 81st anniversary of Indonesia's independence. The traffic management measures, affecting roads such as Jalan Veteran and Jalan Merdeka Utara, began on Tuesday and are expected to last several days to facilitate rehearsals. The peak ceremony is scheduled for 17 August 2026, featuring the flag-hoisting and flag-lowering ceremonies.

Attorney General Inaugurates 15 High Prosecutors, Orders Special Attention for Major Cases

Attorney General ST Burhanuddin inaugurated 15 new High Prosecutors and other senior officials in a ceremony in Jakarta, emphasising the strategic nature of the reshuffle. He instructed the new appointees to prioritise cases affecting public welfare and those with significant impact on state finances and the economy. The appointments come as the institution faces public scrutiny, with a mandate to restore institutional integrity and public trust.

Verdict Hearing for Suspended Ponorogo Regent Postponed as Chief Judge Attends Training

The corruption verdict hearing for suspended Ponorogo Regent Sugiri Sancoko was postponed until 14 August 2026 after the chief judge was required to attend official training. Sugiri faces charges across three corruption clusters, including bribery related to job appointments and hospital projects, with prosecutors seeking a seven-year prison sentence. The defence expressed no objection to the delay and remains hopeful the panel will fairly consider all trial facts.

MSMEs Can Now Reply to Customer Chats 24/7 Using AI on WhatsApp

WhatsApp has launched an AI-powered feature called Meta Business Agent in Indonesia, enabling micro, small, and medium enterprises to automatically respond to customer messages around the clock. The tool, introduced at the WhatsApp Business Summit 2026, can be trained to answer business queries, recommend products, and schedule appointments. Meta reports that over 1 million businesses globally already use the agent, with 83% of surveyed Indonesians saying AI agents help them get faster service.

Police Reveal Origin of Hundreds of Weapons at South Jakarta School

Jakarta police disclosed that hundreds of air rifles and ammunition found at a private school foundation in Pondok Pinang originated from a sports cooperation agreement with PT Lokta Karya Perbakin. Authorities are still investigating the legality, ownership, and storage of the weapons, while the school denies having a shooting extracurricular activity.

APPI Flags Risks as Multifinance Firms Enter the Electric Vehicle Ecosystem

Indonesia's multifinance industry is urged to cautiously expand into the growing electric vehicle (EV) financing market, which now commands a 25% share. The chairman of the Indonesian Financing Companies Association (APPI) highlighted significant risks, including unpredictable resale values and potential losses from battery damage. Despite these challenges, the sector is being encouraged to align with the Financial Services Authority's (OJK) green financing push.