Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 11 August 2026

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Destry Becomes Sole Candidate for BI Governor, OJK Chief Comments

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has endorsed the sole candidacy of Destry Damayanti for Bank Indonesia Governor, citing her strong track record in the financial sector. OJK Chief Friderica Widyasari Dewi highlighted the existing synergy between OJK and BI, particularly in developing micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The Minister of MSMEs also voiced support, describing Destry as a figure highly concerned with the sector.

Jakarta Firefighters Urged to Prioritise Personal Safety During Operations

Jakarta's Fire and Rescue Service chief has stressed that the safety of firefighters must take precedence over speed when responding to emergencies. The directive was issued during the opening of the Jakarta Fire Fighter Challenge 2026, an annual event testing physical and tactical skills. Winners of this year's competition will represent Jakarta at an international event in Singapore in 2027.

Facts on Money Envelope for Forestry Minister: KPK Finds SGD12,000, Though SGD14,000 Was Mentioned

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has discovered a discrepancy in the amount of money allegedly given to Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni by Kuantan Singingi Regent Suhardiman Amby. While initial information indicated SGD14,000 was in the envelope, investigators only seized SGD12,000. The minister claimed he returned the envelope without knowing its contents, but the KPK rejected his subsequent gratification report as the matter was already under investigation.

East Java Police Bolster Personnel Readiness for Forest and Land Fires

The East Java Regional Police have conducted a troop and equipment muster to strengthen preparedness for the 2026 forest and land fire season. Officials highlighted the high vulnerability of the province's teak and pine forests during the dry season, exacerbated by human activities such as land clearing by burning. The initiative stresses cross-sector synergy and the prioritisation of personnel safety during firefighting operations.

Education Minister Responds to Discovery of 995 Weapons at South Jakarta Private School

Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Abdul Mu'ti has addressed the discovery of 995 firearms, ammunition, and suspected narcotics at a private school in South Jakarta. The minister stated that his ministry is in communication with relevant parties and is committed to ensuring schools remain safe and comfortable learning environments. The case is currently being handled by law enforcement authorities.

Police Reconstruct Mutilation Case of Man in Depok, Suspect Saepul Presented

Indonesian police conducted a crime scene reconstruction for the murder and mutilation of a 51-year-old man in Cipayung, Depok. The suspect, 26-year-old Saepul, was brought to the scene in an orange prison uniform with his hands bound. He faces charges of premeditated murder, which carry a maximum penalty of death or life imprisonment.

Travel Driver Who Murdered Woman in South Sulawesi Stole Rp 62 Million from Victim

A travel driver arrested for the murder of a woman in Wajo, South Sulawesi, also stole over Rp 62 million from her bank accounts after the killing. Police revealed the suspect confessed to the robbery and claimed he was offended by the victim's disparaging remarks about his job and her alleged harsh words towards his sibling.

Foreign Ministry Continues to Monitor Seven Indonesian Crew Members on MV Star Janet in Chinese Waters

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry is closely tracking the situation of seven Indonesian crew members aboard the MV Star Janet, which suffered a technical breakdown in waters near Zhuhai, China. The vessel experienced a generator failure, leading to a power outage, food shortages, and communication disruptions before being rescued from a tropical cyclone. Authorities have also intervened to ensure the crew's overdue wages are paid before the ship resumes its journey.

Police Investigate Alcohol Promotion Disguised as Quran Challenge at Music Festival

Jakarta police are investigating a viral incident where a booth at a music festival in Ancol allegedly offered alcoholic drinks as a reward for reciting a Quranic verse. The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has condemned the marketing stunt as a violation of religious, ethical, and legal norms. The festival organiser has expressed outrage, stating the action was taken without their direction or approval.

Dompet Dhuafa and KHCF Strengthen Partnership to Treat Cancer Patients from Gaza

Indonesian humanitarian organisation Dompet Dhuafa has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the King Hussein Cancer Foundation (KHCF) of Jordan to support cancer patients from Gaza. The agreement aims to ensure the continuity of medical treatment and provide comprehensive social support for Palestinian survivors evacuated to Amman. This collaboration reinforces international humanitarian diplomacy and addresses the critical needs of patients and their accompanying families who have been displaced by the ongoing conflict.

Lampung Government Improves Road Access to Accelerate PSEL Waste-to-Energy Project

The Lampung Provincial Government is accelerating the development of the Lampung Raya Waste-to-Energy (PSEL) National Strategic Project by improving road access and ensuring land readiness. The project, which aims to convert 1,168 tonnes of waste per day into electricity, is targeted to be fully operational by the fourth quarter of 2028. The initiative is expected to resolve waste issues in an environmentally friendly manner while strengthening regional energy independence.

Religious Affairs Official and Quranic Exegesis Expert Condemns Viral Challenge Offering Alcohol as Prize for Memorisation

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs has expressed deep regret over a viral video featuring a Quran memorisation challenge with an alcoholic prize. A senior official, who is also a Quranic exegesis expert, stated the issue transcends halal and haram, touching upon basic decency and respect for the holy book. He emphasised that such content violates religious ethics and common sense, warning that not everything that can be made into content should be published, especially when it involves sacred symbols.

Light from the Menoreh Hills: Micro-Hydro Plant Powers Village

A micro-hydro power plant (PLTMH) in Kedungrong, Kulon Progo, has transformed the local community by generating electricity from an irrigation channel. Originating from a student project in 2009, the plant began operations in 2012 and now supplies power to all residents, fostering economic activity. The initiative highlights a community-driven approach to renewable energy in the Menoreh Hills region.

Coordinating Minister AHY Highlights El Niño Threat to Food Security

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) has raised concerns about the impact of the El Niño phenomenon on national food security. He stressed the need for cross-sector collaboration to manage water resources and irrigation efficiently to prevent crop failure. AHY also called for the optimisation of weather modification operations to mitigate the effects of extreme drought.

Prabowo Closely Monitors B50 Fuel, Here's the Price at Pertamina Petrol Stations

President Prabowo Subianto has summoned Pertamina's CEO to review the progress of the B50 biodiesel mandate, a key initiative for national energy independence launched in July 2026. The government confirmed the subsidised B50 diesel price remains at Rp6,800 per litre, while the policy is projected to save up to Rp157.28 trillion in foreign exchange this year. Prabowo also ordered a streamlining of corporate layers and subsidiaries across state-owned enterprises to improve efficiency and decision-making.

Israel holding 1,700 Palestinian bodies as bargaining chips for future prisoner swaps, report says

Israel is reportedly retaining the bodies of around 1,700 Palestinians, primarily from Gaza, to use as leverage in potential future prisoner exchanges. Security officials, including the Shin Bet chief, support the policy despite there being no Israeli captives currently held by Hamas. The report raises legal questions about the detention of remains belonging to individuals not proven to have been involved in hostilities.

Brimob Launches ASRI Movement to Clean Up Kaligaga Beach

The Brimob unit of the Metro Jaya Police deployed 25 personnel to clean up the coastline and riverbanks of Kaligaga Beach in North Jakarta. The initiative, part of the 'ASRI' (Safe, Healthy, Clean, and Beautiful) movement, aims to improve public health and comfort. Police also urged the community to participate in maintaining environmental cleanliness.

First Hearing for Hajj Quota Corruption Case, Gus Yaqut Asks Public for Prayers

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, known as Gus Yaqut, has expressed his readiness to face the first hearing of the hajj quota corruption case at the Central Jakarta District Court. He asked the public for prayers so that the legal process would run smoothly and fairly. The hearing is scheduled for the reading of the indictment by KPK prosecutors.

North Jakarta Youth Encouraged to Turn Waste into Valuable Goods

Jakarta DPRD member Bebizie Sri Mulyati is spearheading an initiative to educate youth in North Jakarta on transforming waste into economically valuable products. The programme aligns with Governor Pramono Anung's recent instruction on waste sorting and processing at the source. Local youth leaders have welcomed the collaboration and hope the initiative becomes a regular event to inspire wider community participation.

KPK Prosecutor Reveals List of 27 Parties Enriched in Hajj Quota Case

Prosecutors have detailed how former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas allegedly enriched himself by US$271,500 in a corruption case involving additional special hajj quotas for 2023-2024. The case, which reportedly caused state losses of Rp622 billion, implicates three other defendants and 313 special hajj organisers. The indictment outlines illicit enrichment for 27 named individuals and corporate entities.

Capturing Indonesia's Economy from the Riau Islands

The 2026 Economic Census has commenced in the Riau Islands (Kepri), with Governor Ansar Ahmad being the first respondent. The census aims to collect comprehensive data on all business units, including home-based and digital enterprises, to serve as a foundation for the nation's economic development planning over the next decade. The Central Statistics Agency (BPS) has assured respondents of strict data confidentiality under the 'TIR' principle (Receive, Fill, Confidential) to prevent misuse.

A Strange Phenomenon in Indonesia: Old Textile Factories Collapse While New Ones Emerge

Indonesia's textile and textile products (TPT) industry is projected to grow by around 5% in 2026, driven by fresh foreign investment. However, this growth masks a paradox where new, modern factories are opening while older, established manufacturers continue to shut down due to their inability to compete with cheap imports. Industry leaders warn that the new investments have not yet compensated for the jobs lost from previous closures.

Palestinian Envoy: Death Toll in Gaza Strip Surpasses 75,000

Palestine's Ambassador to Russia, Abdel Hafiz Nofal, has stated that the death toll in the Gaza Strip has exceeded 75,000 since the escalation began in 2023, with over 250,000 wounded. He noted that many victims remain buried under the rubble. The figures were released despite a ceasefire agreement brokered in October 2025, which has seen Israeli forces retain control of more than half the territory.

BRI Credit Card Instalment Programme Offers 0% Interest and Tenors Up to 36 Months

Bank BRI has updated its credit card instalment programme, allowing retail transactions to be converted into instalments with interest rates starting from 0% and tenors of up to 36 months. The new scheme, effective from 24 July to 31 December 2026, features a minimum transaction threshold of Rp100,000 and simplified administrative fees. Customers can apply for the conversion via the BRImo app or BRI's contact centre, providing greater flexibility in managing monthly cash flow.

Singapore Raises 2026 Economic Forecast on AI and Export 'Fuel'

Singapore has sharply upgraded its 2026 economic growth forecast to 4.5%-5.5%, driven by stronger-than-expected performance in AI-related sectors and exports during the first half of the year. The Ministry of Trade and Industry noted that the impact of the US-Iran conflict on the city-state's economy has been milder than anticipated, partly due to the use of oil reserves and alternative energy sources. Despite the robust growth, the Monetary Authority of Singapore unexpectedly tightened monetary policy in late July to address persistent inflationary pressures.

Indonesia pushes deep learning to transform education

Indonesia's Primary and Secondary Education Minister Abdul Mu'ti has outlined a new 'Deep Learning' approach centred on mindful, meaningful, and joyful learning experiences. The initiative, which prioritises respect for students, teachers, and knowledge, aims to address fundamental issues in the education sector, with the ministry also recognising innovative teaching practices through the Deep Learning Implementation Awards.

Family's Suspicions and Final Communication of Sutrimo Before Death

The family of Sutrimo, a household manager for former deputy attorney general for special crimes Febrie Adriansyah, has raised suspicions over the circumstances of his death. They question the missing personal belongings, the inactive phone number of the person who delivered his body, and a previously undisclosed document noting foam coming from his mouth. The family is also fearful of potential repercussions given the case's connection to a high-profile figure.

China's development experience can serve as reference for Indonesian transmigration, says deputy minister

Deputy Minister of Transmigration Viva Yoga Mauladi stated that China's experience in human resources, regional, economic, and industrial development can serve as a reference for developing Indonesia's transmigration areas. He emphasised that the ministry is not adopting a Chinese model wholesale but studying it to enrich policy options tailored to local conditions. The remarks were made during a seminar involving Peking University academics and Chinese embassy officials in Jakarta.

Tourism Ministry and Bank Indonesia Strengthen Muslim-Friendly Villages to Boost Regional Economy

Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism and Bank Indonesia are enhancing the capacity of village tourism managers to develop Muslim-friendly destinations. The initiative, involving 25 villages from five provinces, aims to leverage the growing Muslim travel market while preserving local culture. The programme focuses on improving governance, digital marketing, and providing halal-friendly amenities to drive sustainable regional economic growth.

Time for Doctors Not Just to Heal, but to Lead Change

An opinion piece argues that Indonesian medical education overlooks the structured development of leadership skills in its lecturers. While many clinician-educators informally acquire foundational leadership through daily practice, a significant gap exists in transformational leadership and strategic management competencies needed for the future. The author calls for an end to accidental leadership development and the integration of formal training into the academic system.

Saudi Prince's Plan to Tow Icebergs from Poles to the Middle East

In 1977, Saudi Prince Mohammed bin Faisal proposed towing icebergs from Antarctica to the Middle East as a cheaper alternative to desalination. Despite demonstrating the concept with a 4,000-year-old glacier chunk and pledging $90 million, the plan faced insurmountable challenges from melting and towing logistics. The idea has resurfaced periodically with modern simulations, but no large-scale iceberg towing project has ever been realised.

Senator Backs Jakarta Administration's Plan to Issue Regional Bonds

A member of the Regional Representative Council (DPD) has expressed support for the Jakarta provincial government's plan to issue regional bonds worth IDR 5.2 trillion. The senator emphasised that the funds must be managed professionally and transparently to finance productive infrastructure projects. The initiative comes as Jakarta faces a reduction of approximately IDR 15 trillion in revenue-sharing and transfer funds from the central government.

Government, BSSN, and Telkom Strengthen Collaboration to Face Quantum Computing Threats

The Indonesian government, through the Coordinating Ministry for Political and Security Affairs (Kemenko Polkam), the National Cyber and Crypto Agency (BSSN), and PT Telkom Indonesia, is accelerating preparations for the security risks posed by quantum computing. A coordination meeting was held to gather input for a national policy on Post-Quantum Computing (PQC), focusing on the need to protect critical data and digital infrastructure. Key outcomes include plans for a national migration roadmap, prioritising high-confidentiality data protection, and a proposal to establish a National Quantum Center.

Tourism Investment Grows by Double Digits

Investment in Indonesia's tourism sector surged by 16.64% year-on-year in the first half of 2026, significantly outpacing the national investment growth rate of 7.2%. The Ministry of Tourism attributes this strong performance to rising tourist arrivals across various destinations, which has enhanced the sector's appeal to investors.

BRILink Agents Open Access and Drive Economy to Remote Parts of the Country

BRI's BRILink agent network has expanded to 1.13 million agents across more than 60,000 villages, recording over 501 million transactions worth Rp841 trillion in the first half of 2026. The programme serves as a key infrastructure for financial inclusion, empowering micro-entrepreneurs and creating new income sources in remote areas. BRI views the initiative as a cornerstone of its sharing economy model, aimed at strengthening the grassroots economy and ensuring equitable access to formal financial services nationwide.

Trump Secretly Swapped Planes in Turkey Amid Iran Threat

Former US President Donald Trump was covertly moved to a different aircraft during his departure from Turkey last month, despite the White House claiming he was aboard Air Force One. The manoeuvre, which involved using a catering truck to transfer him to a smaller military plane, was reportedly designed to conceal his location amid alleged assassination threats from Iran. The incident occurred following renewed US strikes on Iran after failed negotiations.

Colombia Earthquake Provides Insight into Risks for Urban Building Structures

A seismology expert has stated that the destructive magnitude 7.4 earthquake in Colombia offers comprehensive lessons on the risks of building failure in urban areas. The intraslab quake generated high peak ground acceleration, leading to soft-story and progressive collapses in multi-storey structures. Indonesia, which shares similar tectonic subduction settings, is urged to learn from this event to strengthen seismic building codes and urban preparedness.

DPR Demands Evaluation of Newport's Licence After Alcohol Promo Using Quranic Verses

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) has called for the evaluation of Newport's business licence after a viral video showed the alcohol brand using Quranic verse recitations as a condition for free drinks at a music festival. The legislator condemned the act as a violation of business ethics and religious sensitivity, urging the government to take firm action beyond a mere apology. The incident has sparked widespread public outrage and calls for a thorough investigation.

Danantara Through BRILink Agents Expands Access and Drives Economy to Remote Areas, Embodying Indonesia's Independence

BRI's BRILink agent network has expanded to 1.13 million agents across over 60,000 villages, recording more than 501 million transactions worth Rp841 trillion in the first half of 2026. The programme, part of the Danantara Indonesia ecosystem, serves as a key infrastructure for financial inclusion and grassroots economic empowerment. BRI's Micro Director emphasised the sharing economy model provides new income sources for small business owners while ensuring equitable access to financial services nationwide.

Nearly 22,000 Homes Damaged in Kumamoto Earthquake

Authorities in Japan's Kumamoto Prefecture have reported that almost 22,000 houses were damaged by the recent magnitude 7.1 earthquake. The assessment is ongoing, with over 34,000 households still facing water shortages and more than 6,000 people remaining in evacuation centres. The disaster, which struck on 28 July, has claimed 39 lives.

UN: Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan Worsens Amid Ongoing Conflict

The United Nations warns that the humanitarian situation in Sudan is deteriorating sharply due to sustained conflict, mass displacement, and severe funding shortages. Clashes in regions like West Darfur have forced tens of thousands to flee, while critical health services in Central Darfur have shut down, leaving 75,000 refugees without adequate care. The UN has reiterated its call for donor support, noting that its aid appeal is only 41 percent funded.

Indonesia's Second EV Battery Plant Set to Operate Soon, Here's the Owner

Indonesia's second large-scale electric vehicle battery factory, operated by PT Contemporary Amperex Technology Indonesia Battery (CATIB) in Karawang, West Java, is complete and awaiting presidential inauguration. The facility, a joint venture involving Indonesia Battery Corporation and China's CATL, marks a significant step in the nation's downstream mineral processing strategy. With an initial capacity of 6.9 GWh, the plant is part of a broader US$5.9 billion integrated battery ecosystem project, the largest in Southeast Asia.

Central Sulawesi BPBD Handles 33 Forest and Land Fires Since January 2026

The Central Sulawesi Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has tackled 33 forest and land fires across the province from January to August 2026. Officials attribute the heightened fire risk to a strong El Niño phenomenon causing prolonged dry conditions, with the dry season expected to last until November. The agency is collaborating with the military, police, and fire services to extinguish blazes and has urged the public to avoid activities that could spark fires.

Fahira Idris Supports TransJakarta Plan to Manage Transport to Seribu Islands

Senator Fahira Idris has endorsed Jakarta's plan to transfer maritime transport management to the Seribu Islands under TransJakarta by 2027, viewing it as a step towards equitable public services. She outlined key recommendations including seamless intermodal integration, priority access for local residents, and strict safety standards. Idris also stressed that the transition must not marginalise local transport operators but instead incorporate them into a more structured ecosystem.

Bakamla RI Holds Joint Exercise with Malaysian and Singaporean Coast Guards in Riau Islands

The Indonesian Maritime Security Agency (Bakamla) is conducting a trilateral joint exercise with the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) and the Singapore Police Coast Guard (SPCG) in the waters of the Riau Islands. The exercise, which includes a High-Level Meeting, aims to strengthen coordination and best practices in maritime security and safety. Officials emphasised that the collaboration reflects the close ties between the three nations and is intended to serve as a model for regional maritime cooperation.

Police Investigate Quran Memorisation Challenge for Alcohol at Jakarta Concert

Jakarta police are investigating a viral incident at a music festival where a sponsor allegedly offered alcoholic drinks as a reward for reciting verses from the Quran. The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has condemned the act as a violation of religious and moral ethics, while the event organiser has apologised and reprimanded the sponsor involved.

How Jakarta tackles unemployment from the grassroots

Jakarta's PPKD East Jakarta has launched a mobile training unit in Pasar Rebo, bringing barista and video editing courses directly to residents based on community proposals. The programme targets growing sectors, with graduates receiving nationally recognised BNSP certification to improve their employment and entrepreneurship prospects.

Learning AI and Investment Banking: How DBS Prepares the Next Generation

Bank DBS Indonesia is expanding its DBS NextGen Excursion programme to include artificial intelligence and leadership training, taking the children of priority and private banking clients to Singapore. The 2026 programme includes visits to Singapore Management University, Goldman Sachs, and Amazon Web Services to provide hands-on experience with agentic AI and global business. The initiative reflects the bank's broader wealth management strategy to serve clients across generations, moving beyond financial solutions to include education and networking.

US Mediates Israel-Syria Deal for IAEA to Evacuate Nuclear Material

The United States has brokered an agreement between Israel and Syria allowing the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to remove nuclear material from a secret site. The material, residual uranium powder from the Al-Kibar reactor, is not weapons-grade but could potentially be used to create a 'dirty bomb'.

House Deputy Speaker Urges Nationwide Nightclub Sweeps to Curb Drug Trafficking

A senior Indonesian lawmaker has called on the National Police to intensify nightclub raids across the country following a major drug bust in Batam. The operation at HH Club Planet 3.0 Pub & KTV led to 32 arrests and the discovery of an ecstasy stash in a safe. The legislator insists the investigation must target the club's owner to ensure a thorough crackdown on narcotics distribution.