Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 11 August 2026

Showing 1,151-1,200 of 1,526 articles

KUR Disbursements Using IP as Collateral Grow, Now Reaching Rp 5.85 T

The Indonesian government has disbursed Rp 5.85 trillion in microcredit (KUR) to the creative economy sector as of the first half of 2026, surpassing half of the Rp 10 trillion annual target. The programme is increasingly accepting intellectual property rights (HAKI) as collateral, with the number of debtors reaching 93,182. Officials expect the full-year target to be met, normalising the use of intangible assets for loan security.

AHM Accuses Brokers of Inflating Hotel Prices Ahead of Mandalika MotoGP

The Mataram Hotel Association (AHM) has blamed third-party brokers for marking up hotel room prices by bundling them with other services ahead of the Mandalika MotoGP, damaging the local hospitality industry's image. The practice is reportedly driving guests towards cheaper, non-star-rated accommodation, while the provincial government plans to evaluate existing regulations to prevent unreasonable price surges during major events.

Mount Semeru Erupts Eight Times, Spewing Ash Up to 800 Metres

Mount Semeru, the highest volcano on Java, erupted eight times on Tuesday morning, with ash columns reaching up to 800 metres above the summit. The volcano remains at Level III (Alert) status, and authorities have warned residents to avoid activities within a five-kilometre radius of the crater due to the danger of incandescent rock projectiles. Officials also cautioned about the potential for hot clouds and lava flows along specific river valleys.

This Official Was Ostracised in Indonesia, Yet Honoured Abroad

Mohammad Natsir, a former Indonesian prime minister, was politically ostracised and imprisoned at home for his involvement in the PRRI rebellion. Despite this, he gained international respect, holding key positions in global Muslim organisations and receiving prestigious awards. His legacy was eventually rehabilitated in Indonesia when he was declared a National Hero in 2008.

Rupiah Opens 40 Points Weaker at Rp 17,795 per US Dollar

The Indonesian rupiah weakened against the US dollar at the opening of trading on Tuesday, driven by geopolitical uncertainty in the Middle East and rising global crude oil prices. Analysts noted that tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz and anticipation of US retail sales data contributed to the currency's depreciation. The rupiah is predicted to trade within a range of Rp 17,750 to Rp 17,850 per US dollar.

Yaqut Indicted for Causing Rp622 Billion in State Losses in Hajj Quota Corruption Case

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has been indicted for allegedly causing state losses of Rp622 billion in a corruption case involving additional hajj quotas for 2023-2024. Prosecutors claim Yaqut, along with other officials, unlawfully filled special hajj quotas to accommodate requests from an association of special hajj organisers. He is also accused of personally profiting by USD 271,500 from the scheme.

Viral: MUI Condemns Surah Ad-Duha Memorisation Challenge with Alcohol Prize

A controversial marketing stunt by an alcohol brand offering free drinks for reciting a Quranic verse has sparked widespread outrage in Indonesia. The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has strongly condemned the act, labelling it a desecration of religious sanctity and calling for legal accountability. The incident has ignited heated debate across social media platforms.

Social Affairs Ministry Cracks Down on Staff Discipline, Flags Online Gambling Among Employees

The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs is tightening internal discipline after a report revealed nearly 1,900 of its employees, mostly contract-based staff, were involved in online gambling transactions. Minister Saifullah Yusuf warned that the ministry has extensive information on disciplinary violations and stressed the need for integrity, anti-corruption commitment, and proper budget use in delivering social services.

Golkar Youth Wing BMK 1957 Urges Cadres to Strengthen National Consolidation

The youth wing of Indonesia's Golkar Party, BMK 1957, has called on its members to bolster national consolidation following its recent leadership congress. Chairman Rizky Maulana, newly mandated for the 2026-2031 period, emphasised unity and a progressive agenda to serve the nation. The organisation aims to enhance its cadre development and solidify its structure from the national to regional levels.

Gold Prices at Galeri 24, UBS, Antam, and Antam Retro Surge Today

Gold bullion prices across major brands sold through Pegadaian's Galeri 24 recorded significant increases on Tuesday. The price of 1-gram bars for Galeri 24, Antam, UBS, and Antam Mulia Retro all rose sharply compared to the previous trading day. The surge reflects ongoing movements in the precious metals market.

Rupiah Weakens Today Amid Middle East Tensions

The Indonesian rupiah depreciated against the US dollar on Tuesday, driven by escalating geopolitical uncertainty in the Middle East and a subsequent rise in global crude oil prices. Analysts noted that Iran's insistence on keeping the Strait of Hormuz closed until its demands are met has exacerbated market jitters. The currency is expected to remain under pressure, fluctuating within a tight range as investors also await US retail sales data.

Three Police Officers in NTB Arrested in Drug Raid Involving Marijuana and Methamphetamine

Three active police officers in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) have been arrested during an anti-narcotics operation for involvement with marijuana and methamphetamine. The officers, serving in the provincial narcotics directorate and two district police forces, were apprehended in separate locations in Mataram and Bima. The arrests were part of a wider operation that netted 178 suspects.

Dedi Congor Named Graft Suspect by Police Anti-Corruption Unit

The Indonesian National Police's Anti-Corruption Corps has named former customs official Ahmad Dedi, known as Dedi Congor, a suspect in a gratification case dating back to his tenure between 2008 and 2016. The investigation is ongoing as prosecutors review the case file. Separately, court proceedings have revealed allegations that Dedi received Rp 30 billion from an import company to resolve customs issues, though the payments reportedly failed to expedite the clearance of goods.

Tax Office Debunks Viral Claim of Personal Belongings Tax Starting 2027

Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes has firmly denied a viral social media claim that personal items such as bicycles, televisions, and jewellery will be taxed from 2027. The tax authority labelled the information a hoax, emphasising that no such provision exists under current law. It clarified that while assets must be reported in annual tax returns, this does not constitute a new tax on ownership.

KPK Prosecutors: Former Minister Yaqut Enriched Himself by Rp 4.8 Billion in Hajj Quota Corruption

KPK prosecutors have indicted former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas for allegedly enriching himself by USD 271,500 (approximately Rp 4.8 billion) through the corrupt management of additional special hajj quotas for 2023-2024. The indictment alleges Yaqut, along with his former special aide and others, manipulated the quota system to accommodate requests from special hajj organisers, bypassing legal waiting list mechanisms. The scheme reportedly caused state losses of Rp 622 billion and illicitly enriched 313 special hajj organisers and numerous other individuals.

KAHMI North Sumatra Urges Police to Investigate Alleged Blasphemy in Newport Alcohol Promotion

The North Sumatra chapter of the KAHMI alumni association has called on police to investigate a promotional video for Newport alcohol that allegedly used a Quranic verse. The group argues that the act constitutes religious blasphemy and should not be resolved merely with an apology. They are urging law enforcement to trace the chain of responsibility, including the potential involvement of the corporation behind the promotion.

Before His Death, Sutrimo Sent Photos of Febrie's House to Family; Exhumation Planned

The family of Sutrimo, a former household head for an ex-deputy attorney general, has revealed his final communications before his suspicious death. Sutrimo sent photos of his activities, including a picture of Febrie Adriansyah's house, just hours before his body was found. Police are now planning an exhumation to investigate the mysterious circumstances surrounding his death.

Ministry Investigates Alleged Violations by Tuna Vessels at Bali's Benoa Port

Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) is investigating alleged licensing and operational violations by tuna fishing vessels at Benoa Port, Bali, a key hub for the nation's tuna industry. The probe involves verifying permits, vessel registrations with the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission, and catch traceability, following public reports of potential illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing. The ministry has already sanctioned 87 vessels and handled 242 cases of administrative and criminal fisheries violations up to the first half of 2026.

Ministry of Tourism and Bank Indonesia Conduct Training to Strengthen Muslim-Friendly Tourism

The Ministry of Tourism and Bank Indonesia have launched a training programme for 25 leading tourist villages to enhance the competitiveness of national Muslim-friendly tourism. The initiative focuses on improving institutional governance, developing local potential-based products, and implementing Muslim-Friendly Tourism principles. The programme aims to position these villages as key drivers of quality, inclusive, and sustainable regional economic growth.

Antam Gold Prices Rise Today; Global Prices Surge to Two-Month High

The price of gold produced by PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) increased by Rp20,000 to Rp2,710,000 per gram on Tuesday. Globally, spot gold prices climbed 0.5% to US$4,411.7 per ounce, reaching their highest level in over two months as markets await US inflation data that could influence interest rate policy.

EU Prepares Power Grid for Solar Eclipse

European grid operators have implemented additional measures to ensure stable electricity supply during an upcoming solar eclipse. The eclipse is expected to cause a sharp drop in solar power generation, which currently accounts for about 13% of the EU's total electricity production. Preparations include enhanced coordination and a halt on scheduled maintenance to maintain grid flexibility.

Mysterious Jumbo Transaction Hits Hapsoro's SINI Shares

Shares of PT Singaraja Putra Tbk (SINI) experienced a massive off-market transaction worth IDR 760.5 billion at a significant discount. The 150 million shares changed hands at IDR 5,070 per share, nearly 28% below the regular market price, with the identities of the transacting parties remaining undisclosed.

IHSG Predicted to Weaken Today as Market Fears Over Purchasing Power

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) is expected to face downward pressure on Tuesday, driven by cautious investor sentiment amid global and domestic concerns. Key factors include anticipation of US inflation data, geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, and a decline in Indonesia's Consumer Confidence Index. The drop in confidence, coupled with a rising portion of income allocated to debt repayments, signals growing public wariness over future earnings and purchasing power.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Launches Nationwide Mosque Cleanliness Movement Involving 50,000 Mosques

The Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs has launched a nationwide 'Geber Mas' movement, with over 50,000 mosques and prayer rooms participating in a mass clean-up effort. Minister Nasaruddin Umar emphasised that the initiative aims to foster ecological awareness and restore the culture of communal care for places of worship. The programme is part of a broader government priority to empower religious institutions and promote a clean and healthy Indonesia.

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Accused of Causing Rp622 Billion State Loss in Hajj Quota Case

Former Indonesian Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has been charged with causing state losses of approximately Rp622 billion in an alleged corruption case involving additional hajj quotas for 2023-2024. Prosecutors from the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) stated that Yaqut, along with three other defendants, unlawfully filled the special hajj quotas to accommodate requests from hajj organiser associations. The indictment also alleges Yaqut personally enriched himself by US$271,500 through the scheme.

Interest Rate Hikes Become a 'Spectre' for Multifinance Industry

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has highlighted rising interest rates as a major concern for the multifinance sector, given the industry's heavy reliance on bank funding. The central bank has already raised its benchmark rate by 100 basis points this year, increasing cost pressures on financing firms. The regulator expressed hope that the period of high rates would be short-lived to protect public purchasing power.

Police investigate death of 14-year-old student at Jurangmangu Station

Police in South Tangerang are investigating the death of a 14-year-old female student who fell onto the tracks at Jurangmangu Station. The victim, identified by the initials AP, sustained fatal head injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities are examining evidence and coordinating with the station and the victim's family to determine the exact chronology and cause of the incident.

BMKG Issues Meteorological Drought Warning Status for All of Yogyakarta

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has declared a meteorological drought warning for the entire Special Region of Yogyakarta, citing a very strong El Niño event expected to last until December 2026. The agency warns of extremely low rainfall and an extended dry season, urging local governments and residents to prepare for water shortages and heightened forest fire risks. A recent fire at Mount Merapi National Park, which scorched 13.6 hectares, is suspected to be linked to manual mining activities.

Video: Prabowo Proposes Destry as BI Governor, Here's the Effect on Rupiah and Government Bonds

President Prabowo's proposal of a sole candidate for Bank Indonesia governor has been met with a positive market response, reflected in a strengthening Rupiah and falling government bond yields. Investment Director Dimas Yusuf noted that while this domestic political catalyst is favourable, global risks such as geopolitical tensions and commodity price volatility continue to influence Indonesia's financial markets.

New Scam Targets Office Workers, Drains Bank Accounts

A new fraud scheme impersonating CEOs and senior executives is targeting office workers, particularly those in finance departments, to trick them into transferring company funds. Indian market regulator SEBI has issued a warning about this 'boss scam', which also uses malware to hijack WhatsApp Web accounts to facilitate the fraudulent payment requests.

BNIdirect Transactions Grow 17 Percent, Reaching IDR 6,039 Trillion as of June

BNI's digital platform BNIdirect recorded transaction volumes of IDR 6,039 trillion by the end of June 2026, marking a 17 percent year-on-year increase. The growth was driven by a user base that has expanded to 280,000 business customers. The bank is integrating its digital solutions with a branch empowerment programme called BRAVE to deepen its engagement with local business ecosystems.

Former Minister Yaqut Stands Trial in IDR 622 Billion Hajj Quota Corruption Case

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas appeared at the Jakarta Corruption Court for the first hearing of a graft case involving the management of Indonesia's Hajj quota. The case, which has expanded to include four suspects, allegedly caused state losses of IDR 622 billion. Yaqut stated he was healthy and cooperative, expressing hope that the truth would emerge during the trial.

Electric Boats' Contribution to the Rammang-Rammang Tourist Area

Electric boats provided by Indonesia's state electricity company PLN are enhancing the visitor experience and supporting sustainability at the UNESCO-listed Rammang-Rammang karst area in South Sulawesi. The silent, eco-friendly vessels offer a cheaper alternative to fuel-powered boats and have become a key part of the site's appeal to international tourists. The initiative, part of PLN's social and environmental responsibility programme, has spurred the local government to add more electric boats to the fleet.

Cleric Anwar Zahid Survives Car Crash in Bojonegoro After Truck Rear-Ends Vehicle

Prominent Indonesian cleric KH Anwar Zahid was involved in a traffic accident in Bojonegoro, East Java, when a truck rear-ended his stationary Toyota Alphard. The collision occurred while the cleric's vehicle was waiting in a queue at a road repair site, pushing it into another truck ahead. Despite the vehicle being severely damaged, Anwar Zahid and his driver survived the crash, which police suspect was caused by the truck driver falling asleep.

Will Taiwan Fight China? Just Ask Its People

As Taiwan navigates intensifying pressure from Beijing, its 23 million citizens hold diverse and deeply personal views on identity, resistance, and the island's future. While some, like military reservist Cony Hsieh, are prepared to fight an invasion, others advocate for a confederation model or a pragmatic status quo to preserve peace. The debate reflects a society shaped by its democratic transition and the looming geopolitical rivalry between the United States and China.

Police Clarify: Room in South Jakarta School Where Weapons Were Found is a Basement, Not a Bunker

Jakarta police have clarified that the room in a South Jakarta private school where nearly 1,000 weapons were discovered is a basement, not a bunker. The discovery of 996 weapons, mostly air rifles, along with suspected narcotics and pornographic material, came to light following an internal conflict within the school's foundation. The dispute over foundation leadership reportedly allowed authorities to access the previously locked room.

Police Clarify Room Where Weapons Found in South Jakarta School Is a Basement, Not a Bunker

Police have clarified that the room where nearly a thousand weapons were discovered at a private school in South Jakarta is a basement, not a bunker. The discovery of 996 weapons, including one firearm, has been linked to an internal conflict within the school's foundation management. Authorities have since cleared the scene and removed the police line after forensic examination.

West Java Governor Proposes Raising Parental Income Cap for KIP Kuliah Scholarship Recipients

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has proposed raising the maximum parental income threshold for the Kartu Indonesia Pintar (KIP) Kuliah scholarship to prevent students from dropping out. He suggested the combined income limit be increased to below Rp10 million, up from the current requirement tied to the provincial minimum wage of Rp2.3 million. The proposal was made in response to student complaints about high tuition fees and living costs during a university orientation event.

Jakarta urged to establish waste management BUMD to boost local revenue

A senator has urged the Jakarta provincial government to create a regionally owned enterprise focused on waste management to increase locally generated revenue. The proposed entity would process waste into economically valuable products such as fertiliser, handicrafts, and building materials. The initiative is seen as a way to strengthen the waste management system while supporting Jakarta's development as a global city.

Mojtaba Khamenei Appoints IRGC General as New Military Chief

Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has solidified his control over the armed forces by appointing Major General Ali Abdollahi as the new chief of staff, alongside five other senior military commanders. The appointments, made via official decree, formalise a wartime command structure that had been operating without permanent leadership since the deaths of several top officials in US-Israeli strikes. The reshuffle includes the promotion of Ahmad Vahidi to lead the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

Efforts, Trust, and Support to Tame the Fire at Bromo

A forest and land fire at Mount Bromo in East Java has now scorched 742.70 hectares after more than a week of burning. Strong winds have caused the fire to jump across an 18-metre road into the savanna, prompting the total closure of all entrances to the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park to ensure visitor safety and aid firefighting operations.

Police Arrest Debt Collector for Allegedly Assaulting Bekasi Resident with Iron Chair

A debt collector in Bekasi, West Java, has been arrested after a video of him allegedly assaulting a resident with an iron chair went viral. The South Bekasi Police responded to the viral video and confirmed the suspect is in custody, with legal proceedings underway. Authorities have urged the public to resolve disputes through legal channels rather than resorting to violence.

BI: Retail Sales Return to Positive Territory, Growing 0.7% in June 2026

Bank Indonesia reported that retail sales performance rebounded in June 2026, growing 0.7% month-to-month after a contraction in May. The recovery was driven by increased sales in spare parts, household equipment, and fuel ahead of the national religious holidays. Looking ahead, the central bank expects annual growth in July but a slight monthly decline due to normalising demand.

RANS Extends Partnership with Mayora, Value of Cooperation Still Undisclosed

PT RANS Entertainment Indonesia Tbk has renewed its long-standing partnership with Mayora Group, a collaboration that will expand into larger-scale intellectual property projects including concerts and family experiences. Despite the seven-year relationship, RANS management has declined to disclose the financial value of the latest deal, stating the figures are still evolving. The announcement comes shortly after RANS listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange, raising Rp429.25 billion for business expansion.

Indonesia's Petrochemical Sector Shows Two Faces: Who Laughs and Who Cries Amid War?

Indonesia's petrochemical sector displayed a mixed performance in the first half of 2026, with aggregate net profit plunging 66.69% year-on-year despite a 70% surge in combined revenue. The headline decline was heavily concentrated in three major players, while a majority of downstream and derivative companies reported profit growth or successful turnarounds. The sector's outlook remains tied to volatile global energy prices driven by geopolitical tensions, which impact both raw material costs and product selling prices.

Mataram City Government Threatens Part-Time PPPK Salary Cuts Over Mandatory Online Attendance

The Mataram City Government will enforce mandatory online attendance for part-time government employees (PPPK) starting September 2026, threatening salary deductions for tardiness or absenteeism. The new system aims to curb practices such as proxy attendance and skipping work. Officials are currently drafting a mayoral circular to ensure the salary cut sanctions meet formal legal requirements.

China Builds Global Partnerships for Shared Progress

China is fostering international cooperation through projects like the Piraeus Port transformation and the Mombasa-Nairobi railway, emphasizing mutual development and improved livelihoods. President Xi Jinping's vision prioritises tangible benefits for local communities, extending from infrastructure and poverty reduction to climate governance. This approach underscores a commitment to a shared future, with partnerships spanning from Africa to the Pacific and beyond.

Zero Tolerance: Jakarta Administration Cracks Down on Illegal Waste Dumping

The Jakarta Provincial Government has imposed administrative sanctions on three individuals for illegal dumping in Kramat Jati, East Jakarta, as part of a stricter enforcement drive. The penalties, totalling Rp5 million each, were issued for dumping waste and construction debris on unauthorised land, a practice officials warn can cause environmental pollution and health risks. Authorities have also installed warning signs and increased surveillance, emphasising that businesses and contractors must ensure waste ends up in official facilities.

Gold Prices at Pegadaian Rise Across Galeri24, Antam, and UBS

Gold prices at Pegadaian increased on Tuesday, with Galeri24, Antam, and UBS products all recording gains. The price of Antam gold rose to Rp2,819,000 per gram, while Galeri24 and UBS were priced at Rp2,696,000 and Rp2,756,000 per gram respectively. The price adjustments reflect the daily fluctuations in the precious metals market.

Customs Foils Smuggling of 2.7 Million Illegal Cigarettes Worth IDR 4 Billion

The Directorate General of Customs and Excise in West Kalimantan has intercepted a major smuggling operation, seizing 2.7 million illegal cigarettes. The illicit goods, valued at approximately IDR 4.07 billion, were transported from Java and discovered during a raid on a warehouse. The operation prevented an estimated IDR 2.65 billion in potential state losses.