Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 11 August 2026

Showing 1,301-1,350 of 1,526 articles

Paseban Village Develops Waste Processing into Economically Valuable Crafts

The Paseban Village administration in Central Jakarta is pioneering a community-based plastic waste processing initiative, transforming discarded packaging into marketable handicrafts. The programme aims to reduce waste while providing residents with an additional source of income by creating a platform to sell items such as mats, baskets, and bags. One resident has already successfully turned used coffee and drink sachets into various products, offering to teach her skills to others in the neighbourhood.

Serang City Square Revitalisation Budgeted at Rp 48 Billion, to Feature Golok Statue

The Serang city government has allocated Rp 48.2 billion from the 2025 regional budget for a major revitalisation of its town square. The project will introduce a Golok machete statue as a cultural icon and free drinking water facilities. The renovation is divided into four zones, encompassing ceremonial grounds, a fountain area, a playground, and a food court with improved parking.

Indonesian Navy Officer Charged with Distributing 9.83 Grams of Methamphetamine, Wife Sought Buyers

A mid-ranking Indonesian Navy officer has been charged in a military court with distributing 9.83 grams of methamphetamine. The defendant allegedly used his position to arrange the shipment of drugs via a naval aircraft to buyers in East Java, with his wife assisting in finding customers. The case highlights a significant breach of protocol within the Indonesian Navy's aviation unit.

KPK to fully unravel construction of hajj quota corruption case in today's hearing

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is set to fully detail the construction of the alleged hajj quota corruption case during a court hearing today. The indictment will be read for four defendants, including former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas. The prosecution will outline the roles, mechanisms, and state losses involved in the 2023-2024 hajj quota scandal.

Education transformation must start with learning approach: Minister

Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Abdul Mu'ti has stated that transforming Indonesia's education system must begin at its roots by changing the classroom learning approach. He introduced the concept of 'Deep Learning', built on principles of being mindful, meaningful, and joyful, which aims to honour students, teachers, and knowledge itself. The ministry is promoting this through programmes like the 'Aksi PM' appreciation event for vocational teachers, which evaluates the entire learning journey rather than just final presentations.

Revealed: 87% of Insurance Policyholders Unaware of Upcoming LPS Guarantee

A national survey has found that 87.53% of non-BPJS insurance policyholders in Indonesia are unaware that their policies will be guaranteed by the Indonesia Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) starting in 2028. The LPS acknowledges the significant gap in public understanding, attributing it to the fact that the programme has not yet been implemented. The findings highlight a major challenge for the LPS in educating the public ahead of the new policy guarantee scheme.

JCI Plunges Over 1% Dragged Down by Major Bank and Conglomerate Stocks

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell sharply by more than 1% in early trading on Monday, erasing its opening gains. The decline was primarily driven by significant drops in heavyweight stocks such as BBCA and DSSA, amid a broader market sell-off. The index remains under pressure from both global geopolitical tensions, including new US demands on Iran, and persistent foreign capital outflows year-to-date.

MAI Formulates Strategic Direction for Indonesia Towards Golden Indonesia 2045 from Al-Azhar Grand Mosque

The Majelis Arah Indonesia (MAI) convened its first national plenary to formulate strategic recommendations for the nation's future. The forum addressed key areas including geopolitics, economic sovereignty, and social consolidation, aiming to contribute to the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision. The resulting proposals cover a wide range of issues from foreign policy reform to strengthening the role of Islamic boarding schools.

US pledges $15.5 million in emergency aid for Colombia

The United States has committed $15.5 million in emergency assistance to Colombia following a devastating 7.4 magnitude earthquake. The funds are designated for emergency shelter, food, and damage assessments. The quake, which struck near San Jose del Palmar, has resulted in at least 111 fatalities and damage to approximately 1,600 buildings.

Thin Haze Suspected from Forest Fires Blankets Pekanbaru This Morning

A thin haze, believed to be smoke from forest and land fires, enveloped Pekanbaru, Riau, on Tuesday morning, reducing visibility around the Siak River Bridge and Jalan Sudirman. The phenomenon occurred as the region experiences the El Niño dry season, with the air quality index recorded at a moderate level of 43.2 particulate matter. Authorities have heightened vigilance across six provinces as firefighting efforts continue, with over 15,600 hectares already burned in Riau since the start of 2026.

KMP Nusa Jaya Abadi Still Docking, Four LCTs Become Mainstay for Nusa Penida Logistics

Logistics transport to Nusa Penida is currently relying on four private Landing Craft Transport (LCT) vessels as the main ferry, KMP Nusa Jaya Abadi, remains out of service for hull repairs. The operator confirmed that recent vehicle queues at Padangbai Port were caused by alternating dock maintenance, not the ferry's absence. Authorities have coordinated with LCT operators to maximise the fleet and ensure the smooth distribution of essential goods and materials to the island.

Won, Yuan, and Ringgit Strengthen as Asian Currencies Dominate; Rupiah Weakens

The majority of Asian currencies strengthened against the US dollar on Tuesday morning, led by the South Korean won and Taiwanese dollar. However, the Indonesian rupiah bucked the trend, weakening alongside the Philippine peso and Thai baht. Market movements were influenced by fluctuating US rate hike expectations and volatile oil prices driven by geopolitical tensions involving Iran.

Minister Asserts Agricultural Reform Boosts Farmer Welfare to Record High

Indonesia's Minister of Agriculture, Andi Amran Sulaiman, has stated that sweeping agricultural reforms have successfully elevated farmer welfare, evidenced by the Farmers' Terms of Trade reaching a historic high of 127.84 in July 2026. The minister emphasised that self-sufficiency must translate into tangible economic benefits for farmers, achieved through deregulation, cheaper subsidised fertilisers, and guaranteed floor prices for harvests. The government's comprehensive approach, from simplifying bureaucracy to strengthening irrigation and market certainty, has created a healthier agricultural ecosystem.

IDX Tightly Monitors Two Stocks After Unusual Market Activity

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has placed PT M Cash Integrasi (MCAS) and PT Futura Energi Global (FUTR) under close surveillance due to unusual market activity. MCAS shares have surged over 120% in the past month, while FUTR has experienced significant volatility. The exchange urged investors to exercise caution and review corporate actions before making investment decisions.

Colombia earthquake death toll rises to 132, with 570 injured

The death toll from a powerful earthquake in Colombia has climbed to 132, with hundreds more injured, according to updated government figures. The 7.4-magnitude quake caused widespread destruction, damaging over 1,500 homes and critical infrastructure including hospitals, schools, and airports. Rescue operations are ongoing as authorities maintain a national disaster status.

Motorcyclist Caught on CCTV Damaging Indonesian Flag in Bantul, Police Investigate

A motorcyclist was recorded on CCTV vandalising a Red and White flagpole in Kasihan, Bantul. Police have launched an investigation despite not yet receiving a formal report. The suspect is believed to be the same individual who previously damaged a railway crossing barrier in Sleman while under the influence of alcohol.

37 Homes Destroyed, 245 Residents Displaced in Kandea Road Fire, Makassar

A devastating fire in a densely populated area of Jalan Kandea, Makassar, has destroyed 37 houses and left 245 people homeless. The blaze, suspected to have been caused by an electrical short circuit, prompted a massive response involving 50 fire engines. Authorities are now focusing on providing emergency shelter and psychosocial support to the affected families, including 30 toddlers and 11 elderly residents.

5G to Be Aggressively Built Across Indonesia to Support AI

Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital is accelerating its 5G network roadmap to underpin an artificial intelligence-driven digital economy, targeting near-nationwide coverage by 2029. The government views advanced connectivity as foundational for national productivity and competitiveness, not merely a communication tool. New spectrum allocations and regulatory certainty are being prepared to spur investment and transform operator business models.

North Sumatra TKD Realisation: Three Cities Progress While Two Regencies Lag Behind

Three cities in North Sumatra have shown significant progress in realising the Additional Regional Transfer (TKD) funds for post-disaster recovery, while two severely affected regencies are struggling with minimal or zero absorption. The central government is urging local authorities to accelerate spending, especially in flood-hit Central Tapanuli, and to prepare mitigation measures for the predicted El Niño phenomenon.

Viral 'Mother Kimpul' Transforms Traditional Tuber into Trendy Modern Dishes

A content creator known as 'Ibu Kimpul' has gone viral for her mission to reintroduce kimpul, a traditional Indonesian tuber, to younger generations by using it as a substitute in popular modern foods. Her creations include a local version of the viral Dubai Chewy Cookie and sushi nigiri, replacing key ingredients with the processed tuber. Driven by a concern for the future of local food sustainability, she aims to revive interest in the forgotten staple that sustained her family when rice was a luxury.

Foreign Ministry Confirms Safety of Indonesian Nationals in Colombia Following 7.4 Magnitude Earthquake

The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that all Indonesian citizens in Colombia are safe after a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck the country. The Indonesian Embassy in Bogota is maintaining communication with nationals and preparing emergency measures for potential aftershocks, while Colombian authorities have declared a national disaster following over 100 fatalities.

JCI Opens at 6,383.81, Several Stocks Draw Investor Attention

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) opened higher on Tuesday before quickly reversing course under heavy selling pressure. The index initially rose to 6,383.81 but fell sharply to 6,320.108 within minutes, a drop of over 63 points. Large-cap stocks, including TPIA which recorded Rp1.44 trillion in transactions the previous day, were among those in focus.

KPK Exposes Corruption Scheme in Bank BJB Advertising Procurement

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revealed a corruption scheme involving the procurement of advertising services at PT Bank Pembangunan Daerah Jawa Barat dan Banten (Bank BJB) for the 2021–2023 fiscal years, causing state losses of Rp223.7 billion. Five suspects, including the bank's former president director and a corporate secretary, have been detained. The case highlights violations of good corporate governance principles in the procurement of promotional services.

Foreign Ministry Confirms All Indonesians Safe After M7.4 Earthquake in Colombia

The Indonesian Foreign Ministry has confirmed that all Indonesian citizens in Colombia are safe following a devastating magnitude 7.4 earthquake. The Indonesian Embassy in Bogota is maintaining communication with nationals and has prepared emergency measures. The quake has resulted in at least 111 fatalities and prompted the Colombian government to declare a national disaster.

Red Chilli Prices Soar to Rp120,000 per Kg, Chicken Eggs Also Rise

The national strategic food price monitoring centre (PIHPS) reported a surge in the price of red cayenne pepper to Rp120,000 per kilogram. Chicken egg prices also climbed to Rp37,500 per kilogram. The data, recorded on Tuesday, 11 August 2026, highlights ongoing volatility in the cost of essential food commodities across Indonesia.

Geological Agency Explains Mud Eruption Phenomenon in Blora

The Geological Agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has addressed the recent mud eruption at the Oro-oro Kesongo site in Blora, Central Java. The agency is currently gathering data and has urged the public to maintain a safe distance from the eruption point. A definitive conclusion on the danger level awaits the results of a direct field verification.

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Scheduled for Indictment Hearing Today

Former Indonesian Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas is set to face his first court hearing today at the Central Jakarta District Court over an alleged corruption case involving Hajj quotas. The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) will read out the indictment against Yaqut and three other defendants, including a former special staffer and two private sector executives. The KPK has urged the public to monitor the open trial, where prosecutors will detail the alleged illicit payments and the roles of each accused in the quota manipulation scheme.

BNPB Encourages Strengthening of Disaster Management Programmes Through 2026 Technical Coordination Meeting

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) is pushing for more targeted and integrated disaster management programmes through its 2026 Technical Coordination Meeting. The forum, held in Bogor, aims to synchronise central and regional programmes, with a key focus on lessons learned from flash floods and landslides caused by Cyclone Senyar in Aceh, West Sumatra, and North Sumatra. The BNPB hopes the meeting will enable regional agencies to develop more precise mitigation plans tailored to their specific geological and hydrometeorological risks.

Scorching Heat 'Boils' Europe, Disrupts River Shipping

Western Europe experienced record-breaking temperatures in June and July, with the average reaching 21.62 degrees Celsius, significantly above the long-term average. The extreme heat has exacerbated drought conditions, causing major rivers like the Rhine to fall to critically low levels that threaten commercial shipping. Simultaneously, global sea surface temperatures hit an all-time high in July, intensifying concerns over the accelerating effects of climate change.

BPK: Constitutional Court Follows Up 100 Percent of BPK Recommendations

The Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) reports that the Constitutional Court (MK) has fully implemented all 434 of its recommendations, valued at IDR 4.49 billion, up to the first semester of 2026. The BPK also awarded an unqualified opinion (WTP) on the MK's 2025 financial report, reflecting sound financial management. A forthcoming performance audit will examine the MK's handling of the 2024 election dispute cases to enhance judicial service quality.

Rupiah Opens 0.17% Weaker, US Dollar Exchange Rate Rises to Rp17,780

The Indonesian rupiah snapped a four-day winning streak, opening 0.17 per cent weaker against the US dollar on Tuesday. The depreciation comes amid a rebound in the greenback driven by rising oil prices and geopolitical tensions between Iran and the US. Domestically, markets are also monitoring the parliamentary process for Destry Damayanti, the sole candidate nominated by President Prabowo Subianto to become the permanent Governor of Bank Indonesia.

Metro Jaya Police Foil Drug Trafficking Disguised as Expedition Packages in Central Jakarta

The Metro Jaya Police Narcotics Directorate has thwarted a drug distribution operation in Cempaka Putih, Central Jakarta, seizing 31.48 grammes of crystal methamphetamine. A 32-year-old suspect, identified as RS, was arrested after officers discovered the narcotics concealed within packages designed to look like ordinary expedition deliveries. The police emphasised the importance of community information in combating drug-related crimes.

IHSG Opens First Session Up 0.29% at 6,383 Level

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened higher on Monday, recovering from previous losses amid mixed global and domestic sentiment. The index rose 0.29% to 6,383.81, supported by a tentative return of foreign inflows after a prolonged selling streak. However, gains were capped by soaring oil prices driven by escalating US-Iran tensions over the Strait of Hormuz.

Jakarta Police Arrest Father for Sexually Abusing His Biological Child for Years

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police have arrested a 48-year-old man for repeatedly sexually abusing his own child over several years. The case came to light after the victim confided in a school counsellor, leading to a police report in February 2025. Authorities have charged the suspect and are providing psychological and legal support to the victim while urging the public to report suspected child abuse.

BPS Data: 62.5% of Indonesian Customers Aware Their Savings Are Guaranteed by LPS

A 2026 national survey reveals that while 62.5% of Indonesian account holders know their savings are guaranteed, only 46.31% of that group are aware of the Indonesia Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) as the guarantor. The findings highlight a significant gap between general awareness of deposit protection and specific knowledge of the institution, with university graduates and those holding mid-tier balances showing the highest awareness. LPS plans to focus educational efforts on those with high school education or below to strengthen financial literacy.

Shockingly, Less Than Half of Indonesian Customers Know About the Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS)

A 2026 national survey reveals that while over 62% of Indonesian account holders know their deposits are guaranteed, fewer than half of them are familiar with the Indonesia Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS). The findings highlight a significant gap in public awareness, prompting the LPS to pledge more targeted financial literacy programmes, particularly for those with lower educational backgrounds.

Central Java Weather Forecast: Warning of 4-Metre Waves and Coastal Flooding

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued a weather warning for Central Java, forecasting high waves of up to four metres along the southern coast and tidal flooding along the northern coast. Despite predominantly clear to cloudy skies, the dry conditions are accelerating the depletion of water sources and heightening the risk of forest and land fires. Authorities are urging residents and maritime operators to exercise caution.

Indonesian MSMEs' Marinated Catfish Ready to Flood Taiwan Market, KKP: Our Product Quality is Recognised

Indonesia has shipped its first 10.5-tonne consignment of marinated catfish to Taiwan, valued at approximately Rp400 million. The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) confirmed the product, made by a Bandung-based MSME, met stringent upstream-to-downstream quality assurance standards. A follow-up shipment of 20 tonnes is already scheduled for September 2026, signalling growing global demand for Indonesian fishery products.

Investment certainty deemed key factor in Andaman gas development

Investment certainty is considered crucial for accelerating the development of the Tangkulo Gas Field in Aceh's South Andaman Block, ensuring the resource discovery delivers economic value to the region and strengthens national energy supply. The Indonesia Centre for Renewable Energy Studies (ICRES) emphasised that policy stability is a primary consideration for investors given the large-scale, long-term nature of gas projects. Experts warn that delays in providing certainty could slow monetisation of gas reserves and hinder potential industrial and economic activity in Aceh.

Mandiri Investasi Launches Sharia-Compliant Gold ETF with Ticker 'XMES'

PT Mandiri Manajemen Investasi has officially launched a new sharia-compliant gold exchange-traded fund (ETF) on the Indonesia Stock Exchange, providing investors with a syariah-based alternative to physical gold ownership. The launch, attended by Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto, aims to capitalise on growing demand for gold and the expanding capital market. Mandiri Investasi targets long-term assets under management of Rp1 trillion for the XMES fund.

Pontianak Students Shift to Online Learning as Forest Fire Haze Worsens, Respiratory Cases Rise

The Pontianak city government has suspended in-person classes for kindergarten through junior high school students due to hazardous air quality from forest and land fires. Mayor Edi Kamtono reported that air quality reached unhealthy levels overnight, prompting a shift to online learning. Health authorities have also noted a five percent increase in acute respiratory infection (ISPA) cases as the city remains shrouded in smog.

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Faces First Trial Over Hajj Quota Corruption Today at Central Jakarta Court

Former Indonesian Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas is set to stand trial today at the Central Jakarta District Court over alleged corruption in the management of additional hajj quotas for 2023-2024. The case involves accusations of manipulating the quota distribution to solicit illegal fees from special hajj pilgrims, causing state losses estimated at Rp622 billion. Yaqut, along with three other defendants, has pledged to reveal the facts during the proceedings.

Two Killed as Motorcycle Hit by Train at Unguarded Crossing in Serdang Bedagai

Two men died when their motorcycle was struck by a train at an unguarded level crossing in Serdang Bedagai Regency, North Sumatra. The victims were crossing the railway line without a barrier when the train, travelling from Medan to Tebing Tinggi, hit them. The incident highlights ongoing safety concerns at unmanned railway crossings in Indonesia.

Not Rp10,000 per Litre, This Is the Actual Price of Pertalite Fuel

The Indonesian government has revealed that the economic price of subsidised Pertalite petrol is Rp16,100 per litre, significantly higher than the Rp10,000 paid by consumers. This price gap, along with similar subsidies for diesel and LPG, places a heavy burden on the state budget, exacerbated by the country's dependence on energy imports. Officials warn that 63% of energy subsidies are mistargeted, highlighting the urgent need for data improvement and a transition to renewable energy.

ShopeePay Merchant Helps MSMEs Go Digital, Here's How to Register for QRIS Online

ShopeePay Merchant is offering Indonesian micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) a streamlined path to digital payments through QRIS integration. The service promises instant settlement of sales proceeds to a ShopeePay balance and a 0% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) for qualifying micro-business transactions. This initiative aims to accelerate cashless adoption among small businesses by providing a free and simple online registration process.

Jakarta Council Members Appreciate Plan for TransJakarta to Manage Thousand Islands Transport

Jakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) Commission B members have expressed support for the governor's plan to transfer management of transport services to the Thousand Islands from the Transportation Agency to city-owned operator TransJakarta. The councillors stressed the need for a thorough review, particularly regarding public service obligation subsidies, tariff equity, and fleet safety standards. They also called for integrated ticketing with Jakarta's land-based transport network to address the disparity in public services between the mainland and the islands.

DPRD Supports TransJakarta Managing Thousand Islands Transport, Highlights Tariffs and Fleet

Jakarta councillors have backed a plan to transfer management of transport services to the Thousand Islands from the Transportation Agency to city-owned operator TransJakarta. While supportive, they have called for a thorough review of public service obligation subsidies, fleet quality, and fare integration. Key concerns include high ticket prices, vessel safety, and the need to integrate sea and land transport ticketing.

Forest Fire Emergency: Smoke Blankets Pontianak City

Pontianak has declared a state of emergency as thick haze from forest and land fires engulfs the city, causing hazardous air quality. The mayor reports a spike in acute respiratory infections and warns that peatland fires are difficult to extinguish amid soaring temperatures. Authorities are coordinating cross-sector efforts to combat the blazes and have threatened legal action against those responsible for illegal burning.

Indonesia's Crude Oil Price (ICP) Falls to US$81.68 per Barrel

The Indonesian government has set the average Indonesian Crude Price (ICP) for July at US$81.68 per barrel, a decrease of US$1.77 from the previous month. The decline is attributed to easing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and a recovery in global oil supply. The government continues to monitor international market dynamics to maintain national energy stability.

Viral Qur'an Memorisation Challenge for Alcohol Prize: MC Clarifies and Apologises

A master of ceremonies (MC) has publicly apologised after a viral video showed an audience member hijacking a microphone at a music event to offer alcohol as a prize for reciting a Qur'anic verse. The MC, identified as Ega, admitted negligence for failing to immediately intervene and regain control of the microphone during the incident at a brand booth. He clarified that the spontaneous challenge was not part of the official event concept and that the brand was not involved.