Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 11 August 2026

Showing 1,251-1,300 of 1,526 articles

Yaqut Attends First Hearing for Hajj Quota Corruption Case in Handcuffs and Detention Vest

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas appeared at the Jakarta Corruption Court for the first hearing of a case involving the alleged misappropriation of hajj quotas. He arrived in an orange detention vest and handcuffs, accompanied by his wife and greeted by supporters from the Banser organisation. The trial, which began with the reading of the indictment, is part of a broader case in which the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named three other suspects and estimated state losses at Rp622 billion.

How to Refund and Reschedule Bromo Tickets Following August 2026 Fire

The Ministry of Tourism has confirmed that tourists affected by the temporary closure of Mount Bromo due to forest fires can apply for full refunds or free rescheduling for tickets booked between 9 and 15 August 2026. Rescheduled visits are valid until 31 December 2026, while refunds will be processed within 3 to 14 working days. The government is prioritising fire containment and visitor safety before reopening the national park.

Oil Prices Rally Again as Brent Approaches US$88 on Hormuz Strait Tensions

Global oil prices extended their sharp rally on Tuesday, with Brent crude nearing US$88 per barrel as fading hopes for a US-Iran deal and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz heightened supply fears. The gains were compounded by a delay in the restart of Saudi Aramco's Jazan refinery following Houthi attacks, reintroducing a geopolitical risk premium into the market.

China becomes fastest-growing tourism market for Turkiye

Turkiye welcomed nearly 245,000 Chinese visitors in the first half of the year, a 28.05 per cent year-on-year increase, making China its fastest-growing tourism market. The surge contrasts with a slight overall decline in foreign arrivals and is being supported by targeted initiatives such as Mandarin-language services and visa exemptions. Officials are pursuing a long-term goal of attracting one million Chinese tourists annually.

Weapons Case at South Jakarta School: Forensic Lab Conducts DNA Sample Tests

The National Police's Forensic Laboratory (Puslabfor) has been deployed to test DNA samples as part of an investigation into the discovery of hundreds of weapons at a private school foundation in Pondok Pinang, South Jakarta. Investigators are seeking to identify individuals who may have accessed three specific rooms where the weapons were found. The probe continues as police also examine the seized items, which include airsoft guns, ammunition, and a firearm.

110 'Red and White Precision' Bridges Open Access to Remote Areas in Riau

The Riau Regional Police have completed the construction of 110 'Red and White Precision' bridges across the province between 2025 and 2026, ending the isolation of remote communities. The initiative, a collaboration with local foundations, aims to accelerate access to education, healthcare, and economic growth in previously underserved areas. The programme aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's directive for the National Police to actively support basic infrastructure development.

Is Sincerity Alone Enough When Giving?

A new report highlights Indonesia's strong culture of giving, but rising online fraud cases raise questions about the safety of digital donations. The article argues that while sincere intention is fundamental in Islam, it must be paired with due diligence to ensure aid reaches the intended recipients. It suggests that verifying the credibility of fundraisers is a necessary precaution, not a contradiction of faith.

Analyst: Hajj Fund Law Revision Strategic for Strengthening Sustainability

A sharia economics analyst argues that revising Indonesia's Hajj Financial Management Law is a strategic move to enhance the sustainability of the pilgrimage fund through optimised and accountable investment. The revision aims to improve returns on the fund, which reached Rp184.45 trillion, while maintaining strict adherence to sharia principles and prudent risk mitigation. Proposals include diversifying into real investments within the Hajj and Umrah ecosystem, such as hotels in Saudi Arabia.

Forest Fire on Mount Andong in Magelang Burns 3.67 Hectares

A forest and land fire on Mount Andong in Magelang, Central Java, scorched 3.67 hectares of land on Monday. A joint team of volunteers, police, military, and forestry officials managed to extinguish the blaze after a four-hour battle. The fire, which affected non-trekking areas, was exacerbated by strong winds and dry vegetation, with estimated losses reaching Rp 541,500.

Not Gen Z or Gen Alpha: This Generation Are the Financial Kings of Indonesia

Indonesia's national financial literacy index has risen to 69.57% in 2026, with the 26–35 age group emerging as the most financially literate. The survey, conducted by BPS, OJK, and LPS, also revealed a significant improvement in rural literacy and near gender parity in financial inclusion. Officials noted the conservative measurement standards, aligned with OECD guidelines, explain why literacy figures appear lower than basic product awareness levels.

Halal Slaughterer: A Local Profession with Global Job Potential

The role of the Halal Slaughterer (Juleha) is evolving from a local technical job into a profession with international career prospects, particularly highlighted by New Zealand's special work visa scheme. This development presents an opportunity for West Java to build a comprehensive talent pipeline encompassing training, certification, and international job matching. The challenge lies in developing a system that meets global standards without neglecting the significant domestic demand for qualified halal slaughterers.

House Member Condemns 'Newport' Alcohol Promotion Allegedly Using Quranic Verses

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has strongly condemned a promotional stunt for the alcoholic beverage brand Newport, which allegedly involved the recitation of Quranic verses at a music festival. The lawmaker stated that if proven, the act goes beyond a marketing misstep, violating religious sensitivity and business ethics. He has called for strict sanctions and urged the Ministry of Trade to review the product's licensing and distribution.

Antam Gold Price Today, 11 August 2026: Rises to Rp2,710,000 per Gram

The price of gold bullion produced by Indonesian state miner Antam rose significantly on Tuesday, 11 August 2026, reaching Rp2,710,000 per gram. This marks an increase of Rp20,000 from the previous day's price, with the buyback price also climbing to Rp2,546,000 per gram. The uptick offers a positive signal for precious metal investors, though market volatility remains a key consideration.

Yaqut Asks for Prayers Ahead of Indictment Hearing: 'The Truth Will Be Revealed'

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has stated his readiness to face trial over alleged corruption in the allocation of additional hajj quotas for 2023-2024. Speaking at the Jakarta Corruption Court, he asked for prayers and expressed confidence that the truth would emerge during the proceedings. The case, which also involves three other defendants, allegedly caused state losses and delayed the departure of thousands of regular pilgrims.

Mintoak Acquires Middle East-Based Fintech ICC Loyalty

Indian payments platform Mintoak has acquired Dubai-based ICC Loyalty, expanding its footprint across the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe, and Asia. The combined entity generates over US$30 million in annual revenue with profit margins exceeding 30%. The acquisition aims to help banks unlock new revenue streams beyond payments through enhanced customer engagement and loyalty solutions.

Aceh police seize 50,000 ecstasy pills and etomidate, arrest village chief

Aceh police have arrested a serving village chief and seized 50,000 ecstasy pills along with liquid etomidate in a major drug bust in North Aceh. The suspect, identified as RB, allegedly received the narcotics from a controller known as Pablo, who remains at large. Authorities estimate the seizure prevented over 52,000 potential drug exposures and have vowed to continue pursuing the network and seizing related assets.

Gen Z Turns to 'Old-School' Farming as AI Disrupts Labour Market

A bleak global job market and the rise of AI are pushing younger generations towards traditional professions like farming, which the World Economic Forum predicts will need 35 million additional workers by 2030. The shift is exemplified by a Chinese actor who returned to his hometown to sell vegetables after AI replaced him in over 95% of short drama productions.

DPR Holds Hearing with Police and Family of Ex-Officer's Wife Who Died in Medan

The Indonesian House of Representatives Commission III is holding a public hearing with North Sumatra Police and the family of a woman who died from a gunshot wound in Medan. The woman, identified as L, was found dead with a gunshot to the head, with the firearm belonging to her former husband, a police officer. Lawmakers have cited family concerns over irregularities and are demanding a transparent and scientific investigation into the death.

Netcore rebrands to Netcore.ai, becoming the first agentic AI-powered marketing platform

Netcore Cloud has rebranded to Netcore.ai, marking a structural shift from a software provider to an AI-driven partner focused on delivering outcomes. The new platform is powered by seven autonomous AI agents and introduces a shared-ownership model where the vendor is directly accountable for client growth results. This change positions Netcore as the industry's first marketing platform to move beyond software provision to a results-based engagement model.

Kortas Tipidkor Names Dedi Congor as Suspect in Gratification Case

The Corruption Crime Eradication Task Force (Kortas Tipidkor) of the Indonesian National Police has named former Marunda Customs Office head Ahmad Dedi, known as Dedi Congor, as a suspect in a gratification case. The alleged receipt of gifts or promises occurred between 2008 and 2016, with the investigation commencing in 2017. The case has also been linked to a separate trial involving bribes paid to customs officials to expedite the release of imported goods.

West Java's Human Development Index Reaches 75.90 Points in 2025, All Components Improve

West Java's Human Development Index (HDI) climbed to 75.90 points in 2025, marking its highest growth rate in five years at 1.31 percent. The improvement was driven by gains in life expectancy, educational attainment, and real per capita expenditure. The province's statistics office noted that access to clean water and sanitation also contributed to the positive health indicators.

West Bandung's Growth Spurs Economic Activity and Business Space Demand

The expanding residential area of Kota Baru Parahyangan in West Bandung, now home to 4,500 families, is driving demand for commercial and office spaces. Property values in the area are reportedly growing by over 8 per cent annually, supported by improved facilities and connectivity. A new development, Wangsakerta Business Loft, aims to cater to the rising need for business ecosystems within the township.

July 2026 Becomes Hottest Month Since 1991 Due to El Niño Effect

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has reported that July 2026 was the hottest month recorded since 1991, with an average temperature of 27.0°C. The significant temperature anomaly of 0.8°C above the climatological average is attributed to the ongoing El Niño phenomenon, which is forecast to persist into early 2027. The agency warns that the peak of the dry season is expected between July and September 2026, though the timing varies by region.

Trump Prepares 'New Killing Machine' for Iran, Strait of Hormuz Tensions Escalate

President Donald Trump has signalled a shift towards economic pressure rather than further military strikes against Iran, as Tehran hardens its conditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The Islamic Republic is demanding full US compliance with a June memorandum, including compensation and asset unfreezing, before restoring navigation. The standoff continues to threaten global energy supplies, with Brent crude prices rising amid severely restricted traffic through the critical waterway.

Banyumas Regent Encourages New SNT Students to Build Character Early

Banyumas Regent Sadewo Tri Lastiono urged 80 new students of the National Integrated School (SNT) 2 to cultivate independence and discipline during their orientation. The students will undergo a week-long orientation in Semarang before temporarily studying at a local state school. The government has allocated 17 hectares of land for the construction of the permanent SNT building, which is scheduled to begin in October 2026.

US Revokes Over 175,000 Visas Since January 2025

The US Department of State has revoked more than 175,000 visas since President Donald Trump began his second term in January 2025. The revocations were primarily due to criminal violations, including assault, drink-driving, and fraud. The department stressed that a visa is a privilege, not a right, and it remains committed to protecting the public from those who abuse it.

Full Ownership of JJ-LAPP: LAPP Group Unifies Southeast Asia Operations

German family-owned LAPP Group has completed its largest-ever acquisition, taking full control of JJ-LAPP to unify its Southeast Asian operations under a single brand. The deal ends a two-decade joint venture and will see 350 staff integrated into LAPP's global structure, with Indonesia designated as a core regional manufacturing hub. The acquisition aims to capitalise on surging demand for advanced connectivity solutions driven by the region's expansion in data centres, industrial automation, and renewable energy infrastructure.

Bank Indonesia promotes QRIS usage at Tomohon International Flower Festival

Bank Indonesia is leveraging the Tomohon International Flower Festival 2026 in North Sulawesi to boost the adoption of its QRIS digital payment system among locals and international visitors. The central bank highlighted that QRIS can now be used for transactions in several countries, including Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore, via a cross-border feature. The initiative also includes an educational parade float themed around inflation, aiming to promote wise spending alongside digital transactions.

IDX Suspends TRUK Shares After Reckless Price Surge

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has halted trading of PT Guna Timur Raya Tbk (TRUK) shares following a significant cumulative price increase. The suspension, effective across both the regular and cash markets, is intended as a cooling-off measure to protect investors. TRUK's stock had surged 20.15% over the past five days and 88% over the past month.

Burglar Who Robbed South OKU Deputy Regent's Home Arrested After Year on the Run

Police have arrested Nanda Diwangga, a fugitive wanted for burgling the home of South OKU Deputy Regent H Misnadi, nearly a year after the crime. The suspect was apprehended at his residence in Pesawaran, Lampung, after evading capture by fleeing to Java. He had been on the wanted list following the earlier arrests of his two accomplices.

Who Benefits from Expensive Rice?

Despite government efforts to raise the purchasing price for farmers and reports of a national rice surplus, retail prices remain high, squeezing both producers and low-income consumers. The disparity arises because many smallholders are forced to sell to middlemen below the official floor price while facing rising production costs, leaving intermediaries to capture the largest margins. This paradox of surplus alongside high prices highlights persistent distribution bottlenecks and calls for smarter government intervention to balance farmer welfare with consumer protection.

Aceh conservation agency conducts elephant necropsy

The Aceh conservation agency is conducting a necropsy on a male Sumatran elephant found dead on a palm oil plantation in Tamiang Hulu to determine the cause of death. The critically endangered animal was discovered with its tusks intact and no visible wounds. Authorities have urged the public to protect the species by preserving its habitat and refraining from harming or trading protected wildlife.

First Trial of Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas Held Today

Former Indonesian Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas appeared in court today for the first hearing of a corruption case involving the 2023–2024 hajj quota. The trial at the Central Jakarta Corruption Court saw the reading of indictments against Yaqut and three other defendants. The case follows a state audit that identified potential state losses of Rp622 billion due to irregularities in the hajj quota allocation.

Social Assistance in 143 Regions to Use Digital System, Here's the Scheme

The Indonesian government will begin implementing a digital e-government system for social protection programmes across 143 districts and cities this month. The system integrates data from civil registration, land agencies, and the police to verify recipients' eligibility using biometrics and asset checks. The initiative aims to ensure aid reaches the genuinely needy and reduces social jealousy caused by misdirected funds.

Sumatran elephant found dead in Aceh's Tamiang Hulu

A critically endangered Sumatran elephant has been found dead on a palm oil plantation in Aceh's Tamiang Hulu district, with the cause of death still unknown. Conservation officials and police are investigating the incident, which highlights the ongoing conflict between wildlife and agricultural expansion in Indonesia. Authorities have reiterated calls for forest protection and warned of criminal penalties for harming protected species under Indonesian law.

Bromo Forest Fire: East Java BPBD Focuses Water Bombing on Three Locations

Firefighting efforts for the forest and land fires in the Mount Bromo area are now concentrated on three critical points using water bombing from three helicopters. The operation targets the Pakis Bincil Dingklik area, the Penanjakan area, and Area P30, while ground teams face challenges from strong winds, steep terrain, and thick smoke. The Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park (TNBTS) has temporarily closed all tourist entrances since Saturday night to ensure visitor safety and facilitate firefighting operations.

Rupiah Weakens to Rp17,795 per US Dollar in Early Trade on 11 August 2026

The Indonesian rupiah opened weaker against the US dollar on Tuesday morning, slipping 0.23 percent to Rp17,795. The decline reflects market dynamics favouring the greenback at the start of the session. Bank Indonesia is expected to continue monitoring exchange rate stability to ensure volatility remains aligned with national economic fundamentals.

Yogyakarta's Role in Indonesian Independence

Yogyakarta played a pivotal role in the founding and preservation of the Republic of Indonesia, from its immediate support of the Proclamation of Independence to becoming the nation's capital. Sultan Hamengku Buwono IX and Paku Alam VIII issued the Amanat 5 September 1945, formally integrating their realms into the new republic. The region later hosted the central government from 1946 to 1949, providing a safe haven amidst post-war instability.

Garuda Scholarship recipient creates peatland fire detection robot

A recipient of the Indonesian government's Garuda Scholarship has developed a prototype robot designed to detect and provide initial suppression of underground peatland fires. The invention, along with an AI-based oral cancer detection app, was praised by the Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology as a promising step that requires further technical development.

East Kotawaringin Police Install Police Lines at Several Forest and Land Fire Sites

The East Kotawaringin Police have expanded their investigation into forest and land fires, installing police lines at 18 locations across the regency. One of the secured sites is within a company's cultivation rights area, though the origin of the fire is still being verified. Authorities have named one suspect as part of repressive measures to deter deliberate land burning.

DSSA Records Rp1.3 Trillion Negotiated Transaction

Shares of Sinar Mas Group's PT Dian Swastatika Sentosa Tbk (DSSA) saw a massive Rp1.3 trillion change hands in the negotiation market on Monday. The transaction, executed at a slight discount to the regular market price, coincided with the company's planned sale of treasury shares. Foreign investors also recorded significant net buying in the stock, primarily through the negotiation market.

Police Conduct DNA Tests in Three Rooms After Discovery of Weapons at South Jakarta School

Forensic investigators have collected DNA samples from three rooms at a private school in Pondok Pinang, South Jakarta, following the discovery of nearly 1,000 weapons. The police are probing the origins of the arsenal, which includes air rifles and a firearm, amid an internal conflict within the school's foundation. The police line has been lifted after the evidence was processed.

Antam Gold Price Rises Rp20,000 to Rp2.71 Million per Gram on Tuesday

The price of gold bullion produced by PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) increased by Rp20,000 to Rp2,710,000 per gram on Tuesday. The buyback price also rose to Rp2,546,000 per gram. Transactions are subject to income tax, with a 1.5 percent PPh 22 levy on buybacks exceeding Rp10 million and a 0.25 percent PPh on purchases.

Trump Demands Iran Compensate for All Victims of Past Attacks

US President Donald Trump has demanded Iran pay compensation for all those killed or wounded in attacks allegedly supported by Tehran over the decades, including the USS Cole bombing. The demand, made on his Truth Social platform, comes as part of ongoing negotiations and follows Iran's own request for compensation for damages during recent military conflicts.

IHSG Opens Higher at 6,383 on 11 August 2026

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) Composite Index (IHSG) began trading on a positive note, opening 0.29 percent higher at 6,383.81 on Tuesday. The early gains reflect steady buying interest and investor optimism driven by a mix of domestic and global sentiment. Market participants are advised to monitor blue-chip movements and trading volumes for potential fluctuations.

Rupiah Dragged Down by Oil Prices, Opens Weaker at Rp17,803 per US Dollar

The Indonesian rupiah weakened at the start of Tuesday's trading, pressured by rising global crude oil prices and heightened geopolitical risks. The currency fell 0.23 percent to Rp17,803 per US dollar, reversing gains from the previous session. The increase in oil prices, driven by a drone attack on a Libyan refinery, has raised concerns about economic pressure and currency movements.

Indonesia seeks global leadership through mangrove diplomacy

Indonesia is leveraging its vast mangrove ecosystems, which account for nearly a quarter of the global total, to establish the World Mangrove Center (WMC) as a platform for international collaboration on sustainable management. The initiative aims to bridge gaps between science, policy, financing, and on-the-ground implementation by promoting common data standards and measurement methods. Success will depend on building international trust and credibility, transforming Indonesia's practical experience into a globally recognised scientific reference rather than merely adding another institution to the environmental governance landscape.

Two-Month High: Antam Gold Price Breaches Rp2.7 Million Today

The price of gold bullion produced by PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) surged to Rp2,710,000 per gram on Tuesday, marking its highest level in nearly two months. The increase of Rp20,000 from the previous trading day broke a period of stagnation and pushed the price back above the Rp2.7 million threshold. The buyback price also strengthened, rising by Rp35,000 to Rp2,546,000 per gram.

Central Lombok MUI Urges Independence Day Committees to Reject LGBT Carnival Participants

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) of Central Lombok has called on organisers of the 81st Independence Day parades to bar participants dressed in LGBT-themed costumes. The council declared that cross-dressing is forbidden under Islamic law and urged that celebrations reflect religious norms and national values. It encouraged the public to mark the occasion with positive activities that strengthen unity and express gratitude.

PT Garam and ACWA Power Collaborate on Integrated Project in Gresik

State-owned salt producer PT Garam has signed a joint development agreement with Saudi Arabia's ACWA Power to develop an integrated seawater desalination and salt production facility in Gresik, East Java. The project aims to produce 500,000 tonnes of salt annually alongside 62,500 cubic metres of desalinated water per day, utilising a Build-Own-Operate scheme. The partnership is viewed as a strategic step to modernise Indonesia's salt industry through technology transfer and enhanced production capacity.