Archive: 11 August 2026
Showing 901-950 of 1,526 articles
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:37 WIB
Indonesia Eyes Global AI Infrastructure Investment
Indonesia is positioning itself to attract global investment, technology transfer, and market access in the digital sector as it prepares to host the ASOCIO Digital & AI Summit 2026 in Jakarta. The country aims to leverage its large domestic market to move beyond being a mere technology consumer and become a key player in the global artificial intelligence value chain. The summit is expected to facilitate real transactions and partnerships, boosting local workforce competency and industrial productivity.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:37 WIB
SBY to Miss 81st Independence Day Due to Medical Check-Up in the US
Former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono will be absent from Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations and the MPR Annual Session. He is currently undergoing a medical check-up in the United States and is expected to remain there until the end of August. Vice President Jusuf Kalla has confirmed his attendance for the state events.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:35 WIB
Revealed in Indictment: The Breakdown of State Losses in the Rp 622 Billion Hajj Quota Corruption Case
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detailed state losses of Rp 622 billion in the trial of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas. The losses stem from the unlawful allocation of special hajj quotas in 2023-2024, including dispatching ineligible pilgrims and charging acceleration fees. The indictment also alleges that Yaqut personally benefited by USD 271,500 from the scheme.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:35 WIB
On the Brink of Crisis: Investors Party While Nigerians Struggle
President Bola Tinubu's sweeping economic reforms in Nigeria have spurred a stock market rally and renewed investor confidence, but they have also doubled the cost of staple foods and pushed millions deeper into poverty. The removal of fuel subsidies and currency devaluation, while praised by investors as necessary medicine, has created a stark divide between financial optimism and the daily hardship faced by citizens. This growing discontent poses a significant political challenge for Tinubu ahead of the upcoming elections.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:34 WIB
Bangka Firefighters Overwhelmed by 10 Daily Forest and Land Fire Reports
Firefighters in Bangka Regency, Bangka Belitung Islands, are struggling to cope with up to 10 daily reports of forest and land fires as a severe dry season takes hold. Plt Head of the local Satpol PP, Achmad Suherman, cited extreme heat, strong winds, limited personnel, ageing equipment, and a restricted fuel budget as key factors hampering the response. The local government has declared a state of alert and urged residents to avoid burning waste or discarding cigarette butts carelessly.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:33 WIB
Police Identify Woman Who Checked In with Man Found Dead in Kupang Guesthouse
Police in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, have identified a woman who checked in with Yanto Kristo Benu before he was found dead in a guesthouse room. The woman's identity is being withheld pending forensic results, while authorities await toxicology and pathology reports to determine the 32-year-old's cause of death.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:32 WIB
Energy Minister Bahlil Makes Surprise Visit to Finance Ministry
Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia made an unannounced visit to the Finance Ministry office of Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa in Jakarta. The meeting, which also included senior energy directors, is believed to have discussed energy subsidy and compensation spending, which reached Rp 233 trillion in the first half of 2026.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:32 WIB
The Paradox of Islamic Financial Inclusion: Literacy Does Not Equal Participation
Indonesia's Islamic finance sector faces a 'conversion gap' where rising literacy rates have not translated into actual usage. Despite national financial inclusion reaching 79%, Islamic financial literacy stands at 43.07% while participation lags significantly at just 13.24%. The article argues that the industry must shift focus from awareness campaigns to addressing behavioural barriers, convenience, and mainstream integration, drawing lessons from Malaysia and Pakistan.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:32 WIB
Empowering Through Art: Nurdini Prihastiti's Mission to Open Creative Spaces for People with Disabilities
Nurdini Prihastiti founded Dama Kara, a fashion brand and foundation, to empower people with disabilities by integrating their artwork into textile designs. The initiative addresses the low workforce participation rate among the disabled in Indonesia, which stood at just over 20 per cent in 2025. The programme provides art therapy and skills training, with the resulting creations being showcased at international fashion events.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:31 WIB
Spirit of Independence Unites 113 International Students in BIPA UI 2026 August Celebration
The University of Indonesia's BIPA programme hosted an Independence Day celebration for 113 international students, featuring traditional Indonesian games. The event aimed to deepen cultural understanding and foster camaraderie among learners from various countries. Organisers emphasised that the spirit of Indonesian independence served as a bridge to unite participants from around the world.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:31 WIB
Jakarta to Transfer Thousand Islands Transport Management to Trans-Jakarta for Professionalism
The Jakarta provincial government will shift the management of transport services to the Thousand Islands from the Transportation Agency to Trans-Jakarta starting next year. Governor Pramono Anung stated the move aims to ensure more professional and integrated services, criticising the current agency-led model as suboptimal. The policy is part of a broader effort to strengthen connectivity and bring service standards in the archipelago in line with the capital's land transport.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:30 WIB
Luhut: Government Could Save Rp1,200 Trillion Through Digital Transformation
Coordinating Minister Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan estimates that the government's digital transformation could yield savings of up to Rp1,200 trillion. The initiative involves integrating data across ministries, including linking the Health Ministry's SATUSEHAT system with the Home Affairs Ministry's SIAK system to streamline services like digital birth certificates. Officials noted that this integration, supported by artificial intelligence, will address data duplication issues and improve the efficiency of agencies such as BPJS Kesehatan.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:29 WIB
Family Account: Sutrimo Told to Return to Jakarta, Escorted by Two Individuals
The family of Sutrimo, a household manager for a former senior prosecutor's official, has revealed he was instructed to return to Jakarta shortly before his mysterious death. They claim his employer arranged a ticket and funds, and that two unidentified individuals accompanied him from Purwokerto station. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding his death, including an upcoming exhumation, after the family raised concerns about inconsistencies.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:29 WIB
Pramono Says Public Transport Usage in Jakarta Continues to Rise
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has reported significant increases in public transport ridership, with TransJakarta, MRT, and LRT all seeing growth. He attributed the rise to the city administration's policy of maintaining affordable fares and providing free travel for 15 eligible groups. The administration is also encouraging civil servants to use public transport, supported by a network connectivity rate now exceeding 93%.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:27 WIB
July Sales Surge 33%, Is Purbaya Right About Strong Indonesian Purchasing Power?
Indonesia's automotive market showed a significant rebound in July 2026, with wholesale vehicle distribution surging 33.3% year-on-year to 81,115 units. Industry leaders and Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa point to the data, alongside rising cement sales and electricity consumption, as evidence of resilient domestic purchasing power and a strengthening national economy.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:27 WIB
Prosecutors Reveal 27 Parties Enriched in Yaqut Cholil Qoumas Hajj Quota Corruption Case
Indonesian prosecutors have detailed how former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and 26 other parties allegedly enriched themselves through the corrupt management of the 2023-2024 special hajj quota. The Jakarta Corruption Court heard that the scheme caused state losses of approximately Rp622 billion, with funds channelled to ministry officials, private travel associations, and a cooperative. Yaqut, who was detained in March 2026, is accused of bypassing official waiting lists to accommodate requests from special hajj organisers.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:26 WIB
From SPPG Kitchens to Schools: Free Nutritious Meal Programme Reaches 375,000 Beneficiaries in West Sulawesi
The Free Nutritious Meal Programme (MBG) in West Sulawesi has reached 375,922 beneficiaries by mid-2026, supported by an APBN budget realisation of Rp220 billion. The programme is currently served by 169 Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) out of a target of 189. The initiative involves distributing meals from centralised kitchens directly to schools across the province.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:25 WIB
Soemitro Djojohadikusumo's Thought Considered a Foundation for Indonesia's Economic Development
A senior expert argues that the economic philosophy of the late Professor Soemitro Djojohadikusumo should serve as a guiding principle for Indonesia's development. He stressed that political independence is meaningless without economic sovereignty, warning that the nation risks a new form of colonisation otherwise. The expert called for strengthening national industry and strategic sectors to ensure equitable welfare and achieve the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:25 WIB
Democrat Reveals SBY Undergoing Health Check in US, Will Miss Independence Day Ceremony
Former Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY) will not attend the upcoming MPR Annual Session and 81st Independence Day ceremony due to a health check-up in the United States. The Democrat Party's Deputy Chairman confirmed SBY's absence, stating the check-up will last until the end of August. Meanwhile, the MPR has scheduled the annual session for Friday, 14 August, starting earlier than usual to accommodate Friday prayers.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:25 WIB
Yemeni Government Threatens Retaliation as Houthi Attacks Intensify
Yemen's internationally recognised government has warned it will respond to escalating Houthi missile and drone attacks, signalling that the fragile de facto truce is under severe strain. Presidential Leadership Council head Rashad al-Alimi stated that government forces would no longer allow the Houthis to dictate the timing and scope of military confrontations. The warning follows intensified Houthi strikes on government-held areas and Saudi-affiliated targets in recent weeks.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:25 WIB
Danantara pushes for technology transfer in advanced material investments
Indonesia's Danantara investment body is prioritising technology transfer and co-development with universities in advanced material projects. The strategy aims to shift the nation from a resource-based economy to one with stronger industrial and technological capabilities, amid growing downstream investment.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:25 WIB
Police to Forcibly Pick Up Son of Lampung Agency Head Suspected of Assaulting Girlfriend
Bandung police have threatened to forcibly bring in the son of a provincial agency head from Lampung for questioning after he failed to attend a first summons regarding the alleged assault of his girlfriend. A second summons will be issued, and if he remains uncooperative, officers will take coercive measures. The suspect is reported to have returned to his hometown.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:25 WIB
Indonesia's Gold Reserves Rank 4th Globally, Production Lags Behind
Indonesia holds the world's fourth-largest gold reserves at an estimated 3,600 tonnes, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Despite this, the country's annual mine production is relatively modest, forecast at 90 tonnes for 2025. The Indonesia Mining Institute notes that while 112 mining permits exist nationwide, only 71% have verified resource and reserve data.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:24 WIB
Thought to Be Suicide, Woman in Tangerang Found to Have Been Murdered by Boyfriend
A woman found dead in Tangerang was initially thought to have died by suicide, but a police investigation revealed she was murdered by her boyfriend. The suspect confessed to killing her after she demanded marriage due to her pregnancy, a demand he refused because he was already married.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:24 WIB
Viral Video Shows Youths Sweeping Waria in Rangkasbitung Town Square
A video showing a group of youths harassing a transgender woman (waria) in Rangkasbitung, Banten, has gone viral. The incident, which involved kicking the victim's mobile phone, has been confirmed by local police who are now investigating the case. The victim reported that the confrontation began after the youths shouted a derogatory term.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:24 WIB
Makassar Government Launches Mass TB Tracing at 339 Locations to Curb Transmission
The Makassar city government has initiated a mass tuberculosis tracing programme across 339 sites to address a critical shortfall in prevention therapy, where only 0.71 percent of household contacts have been covered. The campaign, running from August to November 2026, offers free screening and chest X-rays, with the mayor urging residents not to hide symptoms to prevent further family transmission.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:24 WIB
81 Percent Discount Marks Independence Day, Borobudur and Prambanan Invite Tourists to Celebrate Freedom
InJourney Destination Management is offering an 81 percent discount on entry tickets to Borobudur, Prambanan, and Ratu Boko temples to commemorate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The promotion is part of a broader programme aimed at strengthening national pride in cultural heritage. Visitors wearing red and white attire are eligible for the discount.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:23 WIB
National Security Conference Reveals 5 Things Israel Now Greatly Fears
A recent strategic forum in Tel Aviv, hosted by the Institute for National Security Studies, brought together Israel's top security and political figures to map out threats for the next decade. The conference, rooted in post-1973 war introspection, highlighted a shift in the nation's primary security concerns. Discussions across 17 sessions identified five key areas of deep anxiety for the Israeli establishment.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:23 WIB
Transjakarta to Manage Sea Transport to Thousand Islands Starting Next Year
The Jakarta provincial government has assigned city-owned transport company Transjakarta to take over sea transport services to the Thousand Islands. Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo stated the current service managed by the transportation agency is not optimal due to bureaucracy. The transition is scheduled to be fully implemented by 2027.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:22 WIB
Indonesia's Financial Literacy, Inclusion Index Rises in 2026
Indonesia's financial literacy index has risen to 69.57% and the inclusion index to 93.61% in 2026, according to a national survey by the OJK. For the first time, women's financial literacy surpassed men's, while employees and professionals recorded the highest literacy levels. The survey, covering 75,000 respondents, highlights a narrowing gender gap and improved access to formal financial services across diverse occupational groups.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:21 WIB
Jambi-Rengat Toll Road Land Acquisition Targeted for Completion by End of 2026
Jambi Governor Al Haris announced that land acquisition for the Jambi-Rengat Toll Road is targeted for completion by December 2026, with construction expected to begin in 2027. The 67.45-kilometre project, part of the Trans-Sumatra Toll Road network, is designated a National Strategic Project and will be financed through loans from the Islamic Development Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. The total budget required for the toll road is estimated at IDR 17 trillion.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:20 WIB
Government Focuses on Tackling Forest and Land Fires in Multiple Regions, No Plans Yet to Replace Officials
The Indonesian government is concentrating its efforts on extinguishing forest and land fires affecting 107,000 hectares across several provinces, with a particular focus on high-risk areas such as Jambi and South Sumatra. Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi stated that President Prabowo Subianto has ordered maximum handling of the fires amid strengthening El Niño conditions. The government has not yet considered replacing regional security officials who fail to control the fires, prioritising immediate firefighting operations instead.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:20 WIB
Viral Video Shows Chinese Tourist Allegedly Harassed by Local Man in Lovina, Bali
A video showing a Chinese tourist being allegedly sexually harassed by a local man in the Lovina tourist area of Buleleng, Bali, has gone viral. The perpetrator, identified as Wayan Sedana, initially approached the victim under the guise of a friendly handshake before directing her hand towards his groin. Local village authorities have since summoned and questioned the man, who is a resident of Kalibukbuk Village.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:20 WIB
Indonesia Declares Emergency Alert as Forest Fires Spread, Haze Crosses into Malaysia
Indonesia has declared a state of emergency for drought and forest fires across several provinces as the dry season peaks, with over 48,000 hectares already burned. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) warns that thin rain clouds are hampering water bombing operations, while haze from Kalimantan has begun drifting across the border into Malaysia. Authorities are focusing on ground operations and law enforcement, with air quality reaching unhealthy levels in Pontianak.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:19 WIB
Indonesian Air Force Studies Probolinggo-Banyuwangi Toll Road as Aircraft Runway
The Indonesian Air Force is assessing the feasibility of using the Probolinggo-Banyuwangi toll road in East Java as an alternative runway for fighter aircraft during emergencies. The plan, discussed in a meeting led by the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Air Force, is still under review. The evaluation will focus on technical readiness, safety, and security aspects before any section of the toll road can be designated for operational use.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:19 WIB
US Stock Investors on Pluang Soar, Beginner Investors Grow 63-Fold
The number of Indonesian retail investors actively trading US stocks and ETFs on the Pluang platform has surged, with total assets under management rising 19-fold over three years. The platform also reported a 63-fold increase in new investors entering the US stock asset class, indicating a significant shift towards global portfolio diversification. Pluang has fully transitioned its US stock products to the PALN scheme to enhance regulatory compliance and investor protection.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:18 WIB
Yogyakarta PSEL Project Worth Around IDR 3 Trillion Targeted to Begin Construction in Late 2026
The construction of the Waste-to-Energy Plant (PSEL) for the Yogyakarta Special Region, valued at up to IDR 3 trillion, is scheduled to commence with a groundbreaking in December 2026. The facility will process 1,000 tonnes of waste daily to generate 18-20 MW of electricity, which will be sold to PLN under a long-term contract. The project is expected to create up to 1,000 local jobs during construction and provide a new source of regional income while adhering to European environmental standards.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:17 WIB
Building Trust as the Core Agenda of Waqf
This article argues that trust, rather than physical assets, is the fundamental foundation of a successful modern waqf ecosystem. It contends that the sector must evolve from relying solely on personal moral integrity to establishing robust institutional trust through transparency, accountability, independent audits, and digitalised reporting. Without this systemic credibility, the potential for waqf to grow and attract collaboration from the wider economy remains severely limited.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:17 WIB
BPJS Kesehatan Strengthens JKN Literacy Through Collaboration with Jakarta Archdiocese
BPJS Kesehatan is partnering with the Archdiocese of Jakarta to enhance public understanding of the National Health Insurance (JKN) programme. The collaboration, part of the 'SYAIR JKN' initiative, aims to leverage religious leaders to educate communities on the importance of active participation and the benefits of the scheme. The partnership may expand nationally through the Indonesian Bishops' Conference to cover all 38 dioceses.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:16 WIB
Pertamina Patra Niaga Completes Docking of 12 Vessels to Bolster National Energy Distribution
PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has completed the scheduled docking and maintenance of 12 vessels to ensure fleet reliability for national energy distribution. The comprehensive overhauls, conducted at domestic shipyards, included hull inspections, component replacements, and safety tests. The company stated the programme is crucial for maintaining the safe and continuous supply of fuel, LPG, and avtur across Indonesia.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:16 WIB
State Palace Apologises for Traffic Disruptions During 81st Independence Day Preparations
Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has issued a public apology for traffic adjustments and road closures around the Presidential Palace in Jakarta. The disruptions, which began on Tuesday morning, are necessary for preparations ahead of the 81st Anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia's Independence Day ceremony. The main state ceremony is scheduled to take place on Monday, 17 August.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:15 WIB
Indonesian Consumers Cut Clothing Spending as Food and School Costs Soar
Indonesia's textile and textile product (TPT) industry is facing a slowdown as weakening consumer purchasing power forces households to prioritise essential spending. Rising costs for staple foods and education, including a sharp increase in kindergarten fees, are shifting household budgets away from discretionary items like clothing. Industry leaders note that annual consumption growth has fallen from 6.5% to around 5%, posing a challenge for the sector despite the large domestic market.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:14 WIB
Reading the Future of East Java's Sharia Economy
East Java's sharia economy is evolving from deep-rooted social foundations into a powerful economic engine, with its origins tracing back to the pesantren networks of the 1990s. The transformation gained momentum with the first Indonesia Sharia Economic Festival in Surabaya and was further consolidated by the formation of the Regional Sharia Economic and Financial Committee (KDEKS) in 2022. This committee, chaired by the Governor, now orchestrates the province's strategy to become a national driver for sustainable Islamic economic growth.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:13 WIB
Minister Calls on Social Affairs Staff to Use Independence Day for Reflection and Reform
Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf urged his ministry's staff to use the 81st Independence Day as a moment to improve integrity and performance. He highlighted the need for honesty regarding data on unreached communities, whom he termed 'The Invisible People', and called for an end to corrupt practices. The minister also encouraged a culture of openness, asking employees to provide direct feedback to leadership.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:12 WIB
Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Allegedly Enriched Himself and Others in Hajj Quota Corruption Case, Prosecutors Claim
Prosecutors have accused former Indonesian Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas of causing state losses of Rp622 billion in a corruption case involving additional hajj quotas for 2023-2024. The indictment alleges Yaqut personally gained Rp4.8 billion, while numerous other individuals and 313 special hajj organiser corporations also profited from the illicit scheme. The case involves the unlawful allocation of special hajj quotas without proper technical studies.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:12 WIB
Minister Arifah: Traditional Games an Alternative to Reduce Screen Time
Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection, Arifah Fauzi, has championed traditional games as an effective tool to reduce children's excessive screen time. Speaking at the 14th Egrang Festival in Jember, she highlighted the role of community-based initiatives in preserving local wisdom and strengthening children's character. The event also saw ten village heads declare their commitment to developing 'Ruang Bersama Indonesia' (Shared Indonesian Spaces).
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:12 WIB
State Secretary Minister Ensures Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers Will Still Receive Holiday Bonus Despite UMKM Status
The Indonesian government has confirmed that reclassifying online motorcycle taxi (ojol) drivers as micro, small, and medium enterprises (UMKM) will not eliminate their entitlement to a holiday bonus (BHR) from app providers. Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi stated the obligation remains mandatory and can be enforced through mechanisms outside the forthcoming presidential regulation, such as the government's veto rate. The announcement came as the government accelerates the finalisation of regulations for the ride-hailing sector and other employment policies.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:12 WIB
Pertamina Patra Niaga Partners with Dukcapil to Strengthen Accuracy of Energy Subsidy Distribution
PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has signed a cooperation agreement with the Directorate General of Population and Civil Registration (Dukcapil) to utilise biometric population data for verifying recipients of subsidised energy. The partnership aims to improve the targeting of subsidised 3 kg LPG distribution by integrating national identity number (NIK) validation into Pertamina's systems. Officials stated the data-sharing arrangement will support better governance of subsidies and ensure energy access reaches communities across Indonesia.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:11 WIB
60 Percent of France's Groundwater Below Normal Levels
A new report reveals that 63 percent of groundwater monitoring points in France recorded below-normal levels at the end of July, a significant worsening compared to the same period last year. The French Geological Survey (BRGM) attributes the decline to low rainfall, repeated heatwaves, and increased water extraction. Conditions are expected to worsen through August before potentially stabilising in September as irrigation demand decreases.
Tue, 11 Aug 2026, 14:11 WIB
DPR Members Condemn Al-Qur'an Memorisation Challenge for Alcohol Promotion at Music Festival
Indonesian lawmakers have strongly condemned a promotional event at the Sounds Project music festival where attendees were challenged to recite a Surah from the Al-Qur'an in exchange for a bottle of alcoholic beverage. The House of Representatives (DPR) members described the act as reprehensible and a potential violation of religious norms, urging an investigation by the National Consumer Protection Agency and law enforcement. The festival organisers have since apologised, reprimanded the sponsor, and pledged to prevent similar incidents in the future.