Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 11 August 2026

Showing 101-150 of 1,526 articles

West Jakarta Police detain online taxi driver suspected of sexual assault

West Jakarta Metro Police have detained a 54-year-old online taxi driver accused of sexually assaulting a female passenger. The suspect allegedly coerced the victim into moving to the front seat before harassing her during the journey. He faces up to nine years in prison under the new Criminal Code's article on indecent acts.

Pertamina to Supply 750 Kilolitres of Avtur for Super Garuda Shield 2026

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has prepared 750 kilolitres of aviation fuel to support the multinational Super Garuda Shield 2026 military exercise in Lampung. The state-owned energy company will provide operational support, including refuelling vehicles and personnel, from 12 August to 15 September 2026. The commitment underscores Pertamina's role in ensuring energy security for strategic national and international events.

Ranu Pani Lake only water source for Mt. Bromo wildfire: BNPB

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has confirmed that Ranu Pani Lake is the sole water source for helicopters battling wildfires on Mount Bromo, as ground crews cannot access the steep slopes. The agency is relying heavily on aerial water bombing and plans to conduct weather modification operations to induce rainfall between 14-16 August. The fires have been burning for ten days within the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, with authorities optimistic the combined strategy will soon bring the situation under control.

Corruption Fight Faces Complex Challenges, Calls Mount for Transparent Law Enforcement

Experts and former officials warn that Indonesia's anti-corruption efforts are becoming increasingly complex, with calls for law enforcement to be more transparent, accountable, and free from conflicts of interest. During a book review event in Jakarta, speakers highlighted issues such as the selective use of authority, the need for stronger ethical codes, and the importance of tracing illicit assets. The discussion also touched on the risk of legal instruments being misused for personal agendas, underscoring the need for independent oversight to maintain public trust.

Tangerang City's DPMPTSP Enters Top 6 in National PTSP Assessment, Undergoes Field Verification

The Tangerang City Investment and One-Stop Integrated Service Office (DPMPTSP) has been shortlisted among the top six regions nationally for its service performance. A team from the Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming/BKPM conducted a field verification at the city's Public Service Mall to assess infrastructure, human resources, and operational standards. The final top three winners will be announced next month, with Tangerang building on its previous national best title in 2022.

State-Owned Enterprises Post Soaring Profits, One Jumps 804% in Six Months

A number of Indonesian state-owned enterprises (SOEs) have reported significant profit growth in the first half of 2026, with tin miner PT Timah leading the surge with an 804.7 percent increase. The results signal a recovery across key sectors and serve as an early test for the consolidation and transformation efforts under the Danantara investment management body. Analysts note that while the performance of blue-chip SOEs remains solid, further streamlining is needed to sustain efficiency and fundamental improvements.

Indonesia, US discuss ways to strengthen defense partnership

Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin met with US Under Secretary of War for Policy Elbridge Colby in Jakarta to discuss strengthening bilateral defence cooperation. The talks served as a strategic dialogue on regional and global security dynamics, though specific details were not disclosed. Both sides expressed commitment to developing a constructive and equal partnership, building on existing joint military exercises like Super Garuda Shield and RIMPAC.

Laid-Off Workers Can Withdraw BPJS Ketenagakerjaan Funds, Here's How to Claim JHT in August 2026

Workers who have been laid off can access their Jaminan Hari Tua (JHT) savings from BPJS Ketenagakerjaan. The programme allows participants to claim their funds online via the Lapakasik portal or by visiting a branch office. Specific documents, including proof of termination, are required to process the claim.

Garuda and InJourney Seek to Draw Foreign Tourists to More Destinations

State-owned airline Garuda Indonesia and tourism holding company InJourney have launched a programme offering 170,845 free domestic flight seats to international visitors. The initiative aims to encourage tourists to explore beyond Bali and Jakarta, thereby increasing their length of stay and spending. The programme is expected to boost local economies by distributing tourism benefits more widely across the archipelago.

Deputy Minister Says Placement of Village Cooperative Managers Still Under Preparation

The placement of managers for the newly formed Village/Sub-District Cooperatives (KDKMP) has yet to commence as the government finalises technical details and awaits assignments from state-owned enterprises. The government is also preparing a presidential regulation to govern the cooperatives' operations, including their role in distributing subsidised goods. Over 29,000 prospective managers have undergone training, with deployment scheduled for August 2026.

Indonesia joins 6th University Presidents for Peace Conference

Indonesia's Hasanuddin University (Unhas) participated in the 6th University Presidents for Peace Conference in Hiroshima, joining 53 delegates from 17 universities across 11 countries. The conference saw the unanimous adoption of a declaration committing higher education institutions to foster peace and sustainability through education, research, and international collaboration. Unhas highlighted its diverse community as a relevant model for global dialogue, while the event's timing alongside the 81st anniversary of the Hiroshima bombing underscored the role of universities in preserving historical memory and nurturing a generation capable of resolving differences through dialogue.

Agriculture Ministry Surveys Potential Drought on Farmland in Lamongan

The Indonesian Ministry of Agriculture and Lamongan Regency are jointly surveying agricultural land at risk of drought. Officials are preparing mitigation measures, including strengthening pump and pipeline irrigation networks, to secure water supply for rice paddies during the dry season. The initiative aims to maintain productivity in Lamongan, a key national food production centre.

Illegal Cilincing Dumpsite Under Scrutiny, RDF-Based Waste Management in Focus

Authorities in North Jakarta have inspected an illegal waste disposal site in Cilincing, engaging with local waste pickers to explore more effective and economically viable management solutions. The site already utilises a refuse-derived fuel (RDF) machine to reduce waste volume. Separately, the Jakarta provincial government has fined a waste haulage company IDR 10 million for illegal dumping in the same area.

Mass Grave Discovered in Sudan's Blue Nile Region After Military Recaptures Area

A mass grave containing at least 25 bodies, including women, children, and hospital workers, has been discovered in Kurmuk, Sudan, following the area's recapture by government forces. Local officials have blamed the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) for the executions. The discovery adds to mounting evidence of atrocities committed during the ongoing civil war, which has triggered a massive humanitarian crisis.

Ministry, OJK collaborate to accelerate financing access for MSMEs

Indonesia's MSME Ministry and the Financial Services Authority (OJK) have signed a memorandum of understanding to expedite financing access for the nation's 56.68 million micro, small, and medium enterprises. The collaboration aims to address structural challenges and increase the MSME loan ratio to 25 per cent of total bank lending by 2029, up from the current 16.7 per cent. The government is also coupling this financial push with market protection measures, including import restrictions, to ensure businesses can sell their goods after receiving funds.

MPR's Bakohumas Forum Opens, Neng Eem Urges Government Communication Synergy

Neng Eem Marhamah Zulfa Hiz, Chair of the PKB faction in the MPR, has called for stronger synergy among government public relations bodies to ensure state information reaches the public clearly. Speaking at the Bakohumas Thematic Forum, she stressed that the MPR Annual Session must be more than a ceremonial event, serving as a platform for state institutions to present performance reports and affirm national direction. She urged government PR officials to act as translators of constitutional language into accessible, grounded messages for the people.

Indonesian Stocks Reverse Gains as Consumer Confidence Hits 15-Month Low

Indonesian stocks surrendered early gains on Tuesday as investors weighed a third consecutive monthly decline in consumer confidence, which fell to its lowest level since April 2025. The Jakarta Composite Index dropped 0.63% despite a stronger rupiah following the nomination of a sole candidate for Bank Indonesia governor. Broader caution also prevailed ahead of key US inflation data, though domestic motorcycle sales provided a bright spot with the strongest monthly growth since October 2014.

Fearing Iranian Assassination, Trump Smuggled Out of Turkey in Catering Truck After NATO Summit

US President Donald Trump was secretly moved from his official aircraft to a smaller military plane using a catering truck in Ankara last month, amid suspected Iranian assassination threats. The covert operation occurred after a NATO summit, with the White House publicly maintaining he was aboard Air Force One. The manoeuvre followed renewed US strikes on Iran after failed negotiations.

Indonesia's economic fundamentals strong despite global dynamics: Airlangga

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has affirmed that Indonesia's economic fundamentals remain robust, underpinned by fiscal discipline and sustained investment-grade sovereign ratings. He highlighted the country's low budget deficit and strong corporate earnings in key sectors as evidence of stability. Airlangga urged market participants not to worry excessively, noting Indonesia is viewed as a stable economy rather than a frontier market.

KPK Prosecutor Says Yaqut Cholil Qoumas Prepared US$1 Million to Influence Hajj Special Committee

Prosecutors from the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) have alleged that former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas prepared US$1 million to influence the House of Representatives' Hajj inquiry committee. The funds were reportedly readied through his special staff members. The case involves alleged corruption in the management of the 2023-2024 hajj quota, causing state losses of Rp622.09 billion.

PT Pesonna Optima Jasa Provides 250 Vehicles for Driver Partnership Programme

PT Pesonna Optima Jasa, a subsidiary of Pegadaian Group, is supplying 250 vehicles to PT Trans Optima Perkasa to create job opportunities through a driver partnership scheme. The fleet includes 200 internal combustion engine cars and 50 electric vehicles, with the programme officially starting on 1 July 2026. High public interest has been noted, with 400 applicants for the initial 250 units.

Lawyers for Three TTU Legislators Protest Ethics Council's Suspension Ruling

Legal counsel for three suspended members of the Timor Tengah Utara (TTU) Regional House of Representatives has formally objected to the Ethics Council's decision, arguing it is procedurally and substantively flawed. The lawyers contend the suspension is premature as their clients are still witnesses, not defendants, in an ongoing police investigation into the alleged intimidation of a doctor. The DPRD chairman confirmed receipt of the objection and stated the Ethics Council would respond, while noting its rulings are final and binding.

US Court Dismisses Bribery Case Against Indian Billionaire Adani; Judge Criticises DOJ

A US federal judge has dismissed the bribery case against Indian billionaire Gautam Adani, while criticising the Department of Justice's handling of the dismissal as 'troubling'. The judge noted the decision was made in an 'unusual' manner, largely in cooperation with Adani's defence lawyer, who also represents President Donald Trump. Adani and his co-defendants had been accused of paying over US$250 million in bribes to Indian officials to secure solar energy contracts.

Education Ministry Realises 'School as Second Home' Vision Through SNT 09 Gowa

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has launched the Integrated National School (SNT) 09 in Gowa Regency, South Sulawesi, as a model for quality education and talent development. The school is designed with superior facilities and teaching staff to accelerate equitable education standards in the region. It also serves as a sister school to surrounding institutions, promoting a student-centred approach that emphasises safety, comfort, and individual potential.

Creative Industry Calls for Removal of Standardised Tobacco Product Colours and Designs

Indonesia's creative industry is pushing back against a Ministry of Health plan to enforce plain packaging for tobacco products, warning it could devastate the design, advertising, and broadcasting sectors. Stakeholders argue the regulation, which mandates a uniform drab brown colour and restricts visual elements, threatens intellectual property rights and the livelihoods of over 725,000 workers. The Creative Economy Minister has called for a comprehensive study to balance health objectives with the economic sustainability of the affected industries.

Conceptual Debates Hinder Deliberation of Asset Forfeiture Bill

A senior lawmaker has urged colleagues to move beyond conceptual debates and focus on technical formulations to expedite the deliberation of the Asset Forfeiture Bill. The discussions remain mired in disagreements over fundamental approaches, such as whether forfeiture should be conviction-based or non-conviction-based, and the scope of predicate crimes. The bill, a priority in the 2026 National Legislation Programme, aims to optimise the recovery of state financial losses.

Parental Guidance Key to Healthier Gadget Use Among Teenagers

A community programme in Malang, East Java, is educating parents on the importance of supervising their teenagers' digital habits. The initiative, led by university students, addresses concerns over screen time, social media, and its impact on adolescent concentration and sleep. Organisers hope the collaboration between academics and parents will foster more responsible technology use among young people.

Iran Reshuffles Security Structure, IRGC Veterans Rise to Key Posts

Iran has overhauled its security and military leadership, appointing veteran Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) figures to strategic roles amid escalating tensions with the United States and Israel. The reshuffle, which includes the appointment of former IRGC chief Mohsen Rezaee as secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, signals a hardening stance in Tehran. Analysts suggest the move aims to consolidate hardline control and integrate military, diplomatic, and economic policies.

Government Accelerates Forest Fire Suppression in Bromo

Coordinating Minister Pratikno reports significant progress in tackling forest and land fires in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, with hotspots reduced from 34 to just two. The government is preparing cloud seeding operations to prevent further outbreaks, following a direct order from President Prabowo Subianto. Authorities are also urging regional leaders nationwide to heighten vigilance against concurrent hydrometeorological disasters.

Counterfeit Products Harm Consumers and Industry, Law Enforcement is Key

A recent court ruling against the sale of counterfeit Timken bearings highlights the legal and economic damage caused by fake goods in Indonesia. The decision underscores the need for robust law enforcement, consumer vigilance, and collaboration between brand owners and authorities to protect market integrity.

Bangli's 2027 Regional Budget Ceiling Agreed at Rp 1.3 Trillion

The Bangli Regency Legislative Council (DPRD) has agreed on a provisional budget ceiling of Rp 1.3 trillion for the 2027 fiscal year. The figure, a Rp 100 billion increase from 2026, was set during discussions on the General Budget Policy and Temporary Budget Priorities and Ceiling. The increase is partly attributed to the planned hiring of government employees with work agreements and anticipated higher central government transfers.

Lawmaker urges incentives for housewives to strengthen human development

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called on the government to provide incentives and protection for housewives performing caregiving roles, arguing it is a long-term investment in human development. Viktor Bungtilu Laiskodat emphasised that mothers are the primary architects of a child's character, instilling values such as courage, responsibility, and nationalism from an early age. He stressed that this often-overlooked work requires state support to ensure the nation's future generations are raised with strong moral foundations.

Energy Minister guarantees non-tax revenue from minerals, coal, and oil and gas will exceed target

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has guaranteed that Non-Tax State Revenue (PNBP) from the minerals, coal, and oil and gas sectors will surpass 100 per cent of the target by year-end. As of July, PNBP from the ministry reached Rp96.26 trillion, or 70.69 per cent of the 2026 target. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa noted that overall tax revenue growth of 23 per cent as of late July remains relatively secure.

Civil Coalition Rebukes Military Chief's Statement: Public Security Is Not the TNI's Mandate

A civil society coalition has strongly criticised the Indonesian Military (TNI) Commander for claiming responsibility for public security nationwide. The coalition argues that General Agus Subiyanto's statement blurs the constitutional separation between defence and domestic security, risking a return to the military's excessive role in civilian life. They emphasised that maintaining public order is the sole mandate of the National Police, and any military assistance must be based on a legitimate request with clear public accountability.

Muslim Lawyers Report Qur'an Memorisation Challenge for Alcohol to Bareskrim

The Indonesian Muslim Lawyers Association (ALMI) has reported a Qur'an memorisation challenge that offered alcohol as a prize at a music festival to the National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim). The group alleges the act constitutes religious blasphemy, while the event organiser and the alcohol brand have both condemned the incident and apologised. Police are investigating and have summoned the event organiser and master of ceremonies for questioning.

OJK and Ministry of MSMEs Form Task Force to Expand MSME Financing

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) have agreed to establish a joint task force aimed at broadening funding and financing access for MSMEs. The initiative, announced at the UMKM Finance Summit 2026, will integrate MSME development programmes with the financial services sector. Officials stressed that expanding financing must be accompanied by securing market access and adapting the financial system to better suit MSME characteristics.

Driving Indonesian Cinema's Acceleration into the Global Market via Web3

Indonesian blockchain and AI entertainment firm SHOW Token presented a borderless distribution model at the BRICS Creative Economy WAVES Bazaar 2026 in Mumbai. The company aims to overcome domestic infrastructure gaps and complex international distribution chains by integrating Web3 technology, leveraging Indonesia's 20.2 million crypto investors. The initiative seeks to connect Indonesian filmmakers directly with global audiences and has already facilitated co-production discussions with India's Panorama Studios.

3 kg CNG to Be Subsidised, but Costs 40% Less Than LPG

The Indonesian government is preparing to subsidise 3 kg Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) canisters, with officials claiming the scheme will be 30-40% more cost-efficient than the current LPG subsidy. The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources plans to match the capacity of one CNG canister to one 3 kg LPG canister to ease consumer transition. Final safety testing, including an extreme heat endurance test, is underway before public trials begin.

OJK Grants Sharia General Insurance Licence to PT Sompo Insurance Sharia

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has officially issued a Sharia general insurance business licence to PT Sompo Insurance Sharia, effective from 7 August 2026. The newly licensed entity, based in South Jakarta, is mandated to adhere to sound business practices and all prevailing laws and regulations. This move marks an expansion of Sharia-compliant financial services within the Indonesian insurance market.

Chevrolet to Halt New Car Sales in China, Shifts Focus to Exports

General Motors has confirmed that Chevrolet will cease retail sales of new cars in China after nearly 21 years, pivoting its strategy towards manufacturing vehicles for export markets. The company will continue to produce Chevrolet vehicles in China through its joint venture with SAIC Motor, targeting regions such as the Middle East, Africa, and South America. GM assured existing Chinese customers that after-sales service, parts supply, and dealer networks will remain operational.

State-Owned Enterprises Post Positive First Half 2026 Performance, Danantara Drives Transformation and Efficiency

Indonesia's state-owned enterprises (SOEs) recorded significant profit growth in the first half of 2026, with several companies swinging from losses to gains. The positive results, particularly among blue-chip firms in banking, mining, and telecommunications, come amid ongoing consolidation and transformation efforts under the Danantara investment authority. Analysts expect further performance improvements as the streamlining process accelerates.

BGN Head Meets Attorney General to Discuss Oversight of Free Nutritious Meal Programme Governance

The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has met with the Attorney General to request legal assistance and field supervision for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The collaboration will involve legal audits and oversight by prosecutors' offices to improve governance. The BGN leadership also affirmed its support for any criminal investigations into past misconduct by individuals within the agency.

KKP Handles 1,286 Turtle Eggs in Sambas, Only 96 Deemed Viable for Hatching

The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has processed 1,286 turtle eggs seized from two locations in West Kalimantan, but only 96 were found to be fertile and suitable for incubation. The viable eggs, identified as green turtle eggs, were discovered by an army border patrol, while the remaining 1,190 eggs from a separate seizure showed no signs of fertility. Authorities emphasised the importance of rapid inter-agency coordination and strict procedures to support marine ecosystem conservation.

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Allegedly Set Aside USD 1 Million to Bribe House Hajj Inquiry Committee

Prosecutors have alleged that former Indonesian Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas prepared USD 1 million to influence the House of Representatives' special inquiry committee investigating the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage. The funds were reportedly channelled through his special aides. Yaqut faces charges of corruption related to the distribution of additional Hajj quotas, which allegedly caused state losses of approximately Rp622.09 billion.

UNESCO Evaluator Suggests Merangin Geopark's Ancient Potential Be Turned into Picture Stories for Children

A UNESCO evaluator has recommended that the ancient geological wealth of the Merangin Geopark in Jambi be transformed into educational picture books for children. During a revalidation visit, Yongmun Jeon expressed amazement at the site's fossils but noted a lack of accessible information for young people and general tourists. His colleague Nicolas Klee added that the geopark should serve as a science laboratory, not just a scenic destination.

Which Chinese Car Brands Are Just Trading and Which Are Seriously Investing?

The influx of Chinese automotive brands into Indonesia has reached 16, but their commitment to local manufacturing varies significantly. While some like Wuling and BYD have built their own factories, others rely on partner facilities for assembly, impacting the depth of technology transfer and local supply chain development. The government is pushing for greater independent investment to maximise domestic value addition from the growing electric vehicle sector.

Agriculture Minister accelerates pump and shallow well aid for farmers in Gresik

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman is fast-tracking drought relief in Gresik, East Java, by deploying water pumps and constructing shallow wells to protect over 200 hectares of affected farmland. The government is also providing irrigation infrastructure and tractors, while pledging to simplify regulations so farm labourers can more easily access agricultural machinery. The initiative aims to maintain productivity and support national food self-sufficiency despite the dry season.

Garuda Indonesia and InJourney Offer 170,845 Free Domestic Flight Tickets, Check the Requirements

Garuda Indonesia, in partnership with InJourney, is offering 170,845 complimentary domestic flight tickets to foreign tourists as part of the 'Discover More Indonesia' campaign. The programme, which runs from 1 August to 30 November 2026, aims to encourage international visitors to explore destinations beyond Bali and Jakarta. Travellers can redeem the free add-on flights by using the code 'INDO' when booking their international round-trip tickets with the airline.

Firefighters Battle to Extinguish Land Fires in Kertapati, Palembang

Firefighters from Manggala Agni are working to extinguish land fires in the Kertapati district of Palembang, South Sumatra. Data from the Coordinating Ministry for Political and Security Affairs reveals that forest and land fires have burned 107,000 hectares across Indonesia so far this year, with West Kalimantan and Riau being the worst-affected provinces.

Manggala Agni Continues to Battle Forest and Land Fires in Rokan Hilir and Bengkalis

Firefighting teams are working to extinguish forest and land fires spanning 72 hectares across Rokan Hilir and Bengkalis Regencies in Riau. The fires are burning on peatland within Limited Production Forest areas, with strong winds and dry fuel complicating efforts. Authorities are being assisted by the military, police, and local communities to bring the situation under control.