Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 11 August 2026

Showing 201-250 of 1,526 articles

Pegadaian strengthens financial literacy for informal workers in Tangerang

State-owned pawnbroker PT Pegadaian has launched a financial education programme targeting informal sector workers, specifically motorcycle taxi drivers in Tangerang and South Tangerang. The initiative aims to equip daily-wage earners with skills in budgeting, emergency fund creation, and identifying illegal investments. The move addresses a national gap where financial inclusion outpaces literacy, as 87.74 million Indonesians work in the informal sector.

Apple Develops Anti-AI Technology for iPhone, Here's How It Works

Apple is developing a new feature called Apple Reference Image to verify that a photo was genuinely captured by an iPhone camera, not generated by artificial intelligence. The technology, found in iOS 27 Beta 5 code, works by embedding unique sensor data into photos taken in a special 'Reference Mode'. Verification is processed via Apple's Private Cloud Compute without the company ever viewing the actual image, addressing growing concerns over AI-generated content.

Joint Operation Targets Illegal Traffic Controllers in West Jakarta

Authorities in West Jakarta have launched a joint operation to curb the activities of illegal traffic controllers, known locally as 'pak ogah', at the Rawa Buaya toll exit and other congestion hotspots. The move follows numerous complaints from motorists about traffic disruption and safety risks. Officials from the Public Order Agency and Transportation Department are conducting patrols and issuing warnings in line with a gubernatorial instruction.

ESR and INA Expand Logistics Investment with Two New Warehousing Facilities in Cikarang

ESR and the Indonesia Investment Authority (INA) are expanding their logistics partnership with two new modern warehousing projects in Cikarang, West Java. The developments aim to support growing demand from the manufacturing and distribution sectors in the eastern Jabodetabek industrial corridor. The facilities, featuring high technical specifications and sustainability elements, are expected to strengthen Indonesia's supply chain infrastructure.

KAI Offers 17% Discount and Rp8 Fares for Independence Day

State-owned railway operator KAI is offering a 17 percent discount on commercial economy train tickets and a special Rp8 fare for LRT Jabodebek and Commuter Line services on 17 August 2026. The promotion is part of the celebrations for the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence. KAI's management stated the initiative aims to make public transport more accessible and allow more people to celebrate the national moment together.

Kemenpora Opens Registration for Merdeka Run 2026 Celebrating 81st Independence Day

The Ministry of Youth and Sports (Kemenpora) has opened registration for the Merdeka Run 2026, a free 8-kilometre race starting from the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on 29 August. The event, themed 'Bangun, Bergerak, Merdeka', aims to celebrate the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence and will feature a UMKM bazaar, culinary festival, drone show, and musical performances. The ministry stated the run is part of an effort to express gratitude for Indonesia's growth and to showcase the nation's openness and global collaboration.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Calls for Systemic Strengthening of Integrated Services for Women and Children

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya has stressed the need for systemic strengthening of integrated services to handle violence against women and children, moving beyond individual initiatives. He highlighted that effective implementation requires robust institutional support, adequate regulations, and sufficient budget allocation from regional governments. The initiative aligns with the mandate of Law No. 12 of 2022 on Sexual Violence Crimes, which requires regional governments to establish Technical Implementation Units for the Protection of Women and Children (UPTD PPA).

Employee Rapes Boss's Underage Daughter in Denpasar, Threatened Victim to Stay Silent

A 28-year-old man from Sabu Raijua, East Nusa Tenggara, has been arrested for raping his employer's underage daughter in Denpasar. The perpetrator, identified by the initials DB, threatened the victim to prevent her from reporting the assault. He now faces up to 12 years in prison under Indonesia's criminal code.

Wamendagri Welcomes 65 Papuan Students Arriving in Jakarta for Further Education

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Ribka Haluk welcomed 65 students from remote areas of Papua who arrived at Tanjung Priok Port after a seven-day sea journey. The students are part of a foundation programme providing educational opportunities from junior high through to university. Ribka encouraged the students to study diligently and adapt to their new environment in Tangerang.

Moerdijat: Education Must Not Only Be Market-Oriented, But Also Build Character

Indonesian education is at a crossroads, requiring transformation to produce graduates with critical thinking and character, not just technical skills, according to Lestari Moerdijat. A recent LPEM FEB UI report reveals that 8.01 million university graduates are underemployed, highlighting a significant mismatch between the education system and labour market needs. Moerdijat calls for collective synergy to realign education with economic demands without neglecting national values.

BPK Launches SPKN 2026, Transforming Indonesia's Public Sector Auditing Standards

The Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) has officially launched the 2026 State Financial Auditing Standards (SPKN 2026), marking a significant transformation of public sector auditing in the country. The new framework aligns with global standards and aims to enhance the quality, professionalism, and benefits of audits for governance and public welfare. Its implementation will also expand the scope of users to include internal auditors across state-owned enterprises, Bank Indonesia, and the Financial Services Authority.

Freeport Indonesia's IUPK Extension Still Under Government Review, Says Energy Ministry

The Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has confirmed that PT Freeport Indonesia's application for a special mining business permit (IUPK) extension is still under review. The company submitted the request in mid-2026 to secure investment certainty for long-term underground mine development, which requires more than 15 years. Freeport McMoRan's semester I-2026 report indicates the extension would allow operations to continue beyond the current 2041 expiry, with the company's stake reducing from 48.76% to approximately 37% from 2042 under a memorandum of understanding signed with the government.

Megawati Inaugurates New PDIP Wing Leaders, Stresses Research and Grassroots Loyalty

PDI Perjuangan Chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri inaugurated new leaders for the party's youth wing, Muslim organisation, and research body in Jakarta. She emphasised that political movements must be grounded in scientific research and urged cadres to remain loyal to the people as the party's source of strength. The appointments are part of a broader effort to strengthen internal consolidation and ensure the party's policies are data-driven and community-focused.

Purbaya on Reshuffle Rumours: I Don't Know

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has declined to comment on speculation that he may be moved to lead the Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming in a cabinet reshuffle. Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia also stated that the matter was not discussed during their meeting and that such decisions are the prerogative of the President.

Deputy Finance Minister Juda Agung Sends Message on New Gold ETF Investment

Deputy Finance Minister Juda Agung stated that the launch of a gold Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) product can deepen Indonesia's capital market, urging accountable and transparent management. He noted the global gold ETF market has reached US$559 billion, reflecting the instrument's growing importance. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto also announced plans to coordinate on equalising tax treatment for the new product to boost investment.

Situbondo Opens Rp40 Billion Investment Opportunity for Pasir Putih Coastal Tourism

The Situbondo Regency Government is seeking strategic partners to invest at least Rp40 billion in transforming the legendary Pasir Putih Beach into an integrated coastal tourism destination. The initiative, structured as a Cooperation for Utilisation (KSP) scheme, offers a 30-year partnership and aims to revitalise the area with professional management, new attractions, and improved connectivity. Officials believe the beach's strategic location along the Pantura route and its connection to broader East Java and Bali tourism ecosystems will attract significant investor interest.

Police Traffic Corps Encourages Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers to Become Road Safety Pioneers

The Indonesian National Police Traffic Corps (Korlantas Polri) is urging online motorcycle taxi (ojol) drivers to act as pioneers of road safety, leveraging their constant presence on the streets. The initiative was discussed during a meeting with the National Ojol Community, where police highlighted the drivers' role as a public service interface. The community aims to be formally declared and serve as a frontline partner for the police in maintaining traffic safety.

Four Ministries and BNN Sign MoU on Integrated Drug Rehabilitation and Survivor Empowerment

Four Indonesian ministries and the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) have signed a memorandum of understanding to provide integrated rehabilitation and empowerment for drug abuse survivors. The agreement aims to synchronize data, standardize treatment based on severity, and facilitate vocational training and job placement to help recovering addicts return to productive society. Officials emphasized that this cross-institutional synergy, using a single national database, will make interventions more targeted, effective, and measurable.

East Nusa Tenggara Receives Rp 1.94 Trillion in Additional General Allocation Funds

The central government has allocated an additional Rp 1.94 trillion in General Allocation Funds (DAU) to East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) for the 2026 fiscal year. The funds are intended to strengthen the fiscal capacity of local governments and accelerate development programmes across the province. Kupang Regency is set to receive the largest share of the additional budget, amounting to approximately Rp 170 billion.

Strong El Niño to Prolong South Sumatra Dry Season Until Late October

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned that a strong El Niño phenomenon will cause drier conditions in South Sumatra, with the peak of the dry season expected in August and September. The intensifying Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) is also reducing rainfall, potentially delaying the onset of the rainy season until late October or early November. Authorities are urging heightened vigilance against the increased risk of forest and land fires.

Grab Academy Goes Beyond Ride-Hailing: Drivers Become Content Creators and Entrepreneurs

Grab Indonesia's Academy programme has reached over 1.15 million driver-partners since 2018, offering upskilling opportunities beyond ride-hailing. The initiative has enabled thousands to transition into roles such as car drivers, merchant partners, and content creators. The programme forms part of Grab's broader Rp 100 billion commitment to Indonesia.

West Jakarta City Government Strengthens Cross-Sector Cooperation to Reduce Stunting

The West Jakarta City Government is intensifying cross-sector collaboration to accelerate the reduction of stunting cases. The initiative involves integrated interventions from the city level down to neighbourhood units, targeting a prevalence reduction to 15% by 2026. Officials stress that tackling stunting is a crucial investment for Indonesia's future human capital and the 2045 Golden Generation vision.

Govt to restrict Pertalite subsidies for upper deciles in phases

The Indonesian government is planning to phase out subsidised Pertalite fuel for the wealthiest households, specifically targeting the top two income deciles. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stressed the urgency of restructuring energy subsidies, noting that hundreds of trillions of rupiah are currently misallocated to affluent families. The policy aims to safeguard the state budget from global oil price volatility while ensuring subsidies reach their intended beneficiaries.

Bromo Wildfire Scorches Nearly 900 Hectares, Joint Task Force Battles Remaining Hotspots

A wildfire that ignited on 3 August 2026 in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park area has burned approximately 899.35 hectares. Integrated firefighting efforts involving the military, police, and four regional governments have successfully contained the blaze, preventing further spread. Operations are now focused on extinguishing remaining active hotspots in the Watangan, Argowulan, and Dingklik areas.

Minister Ferry Juliantono Encourages Cooperatives to Build Their Own CPO Mills

Minister of Cooperatives Budi Arie Setiadi has urged cooperatives in Musi Banyuasin to establish their own crude palm oil (CPO) mills to strengthen downstream processing and increase value for farmers. The initiative aims to consolidate smallholder farmers and leverage support from state-owned enterprise PT Agrinas Palma Nusantara. The ministry has identified 2,587 plantation cooperatives that could form the basis for this downstream development programme.

Indonesian Border Community Marks Independence Day with Flag Display and Parade

Residents of Jagoi Babang sub-district in West Kalimantan raised 3,000 Indonesian flags and held a parade along the Malaysia-Indonesia border to celebrate the 81st anniversary of national independence. The sub-district head emphasized that the display of nationalism serves to remind citizens of their strategic position as the nation's front porch. He also called on the younger generation to use diversity as a catalyst for regional development and to maintain interethnic harmony.

Indonesia, IOM to renew cooperation on migrant worker protection

Indonesia and the International Organization for Migration are set to renew their cooperation agreement to better protect Indonesian migrant workers, aligning with the recent elevation of the migrant workers protection body to a full ministry. The renewed partnership aims to broaden the scope of collaboration, including expanding the 'Golden Migrant Village' programme, which focuses on empowering returning workers and their families to build independent livelihoods.

Two Arrested for Impersonating KPK Officials to Defraud Elderly Woman of Rp300 Million

Police in South Tangerang have arrested two individuals for allegedly posing as a former detainee and an employee of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) to swindle a 70-year-old woman. The suspects convinced the victim to hand over money and a vehicle under the pretence of facilitating an asset disbursement. The pair were apprehended in Cianjur, West Java, less than 24 hours after the crime was reported.

KemenHAM's Procurement Unit Achieves Proactive Level 3 Maturity in 18 Months

The Procurement Unit of the Ministry of Human Rights has attained a Proactive Level 3 maturity rating just 18 months after its establishment. The achievement was recognised by the National Public Procurement Agency as a result of strengthened institutional frameworks and human resource competencies. The ministry aims to continue enhancing transparency and accountability in state spending through digital technology and anti-corruption measures.

Megawati Inaugurates New PDIP Wing and Body Leaders, Stresses Loyalty to the People

PDIP Chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri inaugurated the new leadership of the party's wing organizations and bodies, including Taruna Merah Putih and Baitul Muslimin Indonesia, at the party headquarters in Jakarta. During the ceremony, she urged the newly appointed officials to remain loyal to the people, emphasizing that the party's strength comes from its grassroots connection. Megawati also highlighted the importance of science-based research and tasked the party's research body with addressing issues such as unemployment among educated academics.

Beijing Braces for Torrential Rain Equivalent to Over a Third of Annual Rainfall

Beijing is bracing for extreme rainfall starting Tuesday night, with forecasts predicting over 150 millimetres of rain in 24 hours. The deluge, triggered by a collision of moist air from Typhoon Dolphin and a northern cold front, could see some districts receive over 200 millimetres, equivalent to 38% of the city's average annual precipitation. Authorities have issued the highest-level flood emergency warnings for mountainous western districts and urged residents to stay indoors.

Attorney General Appoints Saiful Bahri Siregar as Director of Investigation, Reversing Rinaldi Umar's Appointment

Attorney General Sanitiar Burhanuddin has officially appointed Saiful Bahri Siregar as the new Director of Investigation for the Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, reversing a previous decree that named Rinaldi Umar to the post. The Attorney General's Office explained the change was necessary because the position requires a prosecutor with extensive and mature investigative experience. Following the cancellation of his appointment, Rinaldi Umar will be assigned as Deputy Head of the South Sumatra High Prosecutor's Office.

Danantara: Yogyakarta Waste-to-Energy Plant to Absorb 1,000 Workers

The Danantara Investment Management Agency has announced that the construction of a Waste-to-Energy Plant (PSEL) in the Special Region of Yogyakarta will absorb up to 1,000 local workers. The project, one of eleven similar facilities being developed simultaneously across Indonesia, is scheduled to commence construction in early 2027. Once operational, the plant is expected to process 1,000 tonnes of waste daily, with the generated electricity to be sold to the state electricity company PLN.

Government Synergises with Stakeholders to Accelerate EV Charging Station Development

The Indonesian government is accelerating the development of Public Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (SPKLU) to keep pace with the growing adoption of electric vehicles. A new ministerial decree outlines the development plan for 2025-2030, targeting diverse locations such as shopping centres, toll road rest areas, and petrol stations. Business licensing procedures are also being simplified to encourage greater private sector participation.

Jakarta Governor Emphasises Social Cohesion and Moral Strength in Global City Transformation

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has stressed that the capital's transformation into a global city must go beyond infrastructure and economic growth to include strengthening social cohesion, harmony, and morality. He affirmed the Jakarta provincial government's full support for the Indonesian Ulema Council's (MUI) 2025–2030 policy direction, particularly in promoting religious moderation and combating extremism. The MUI is expected to act as a bridge between the government and the public, adapting its outreach to suit Jakarta's modern, plural, and digital society.

Thailand Suspends Issuance of Gun Carry Permits for One Year Following Deadly School Shooting

The Thai government has imposed a one-year suspension on issuing permits to carry firearms in public following a fatal school shooting. The policy aims to restore public order, reduce the risk of violence, and rebuild public trust. Authorities have also been instructed to tighten background checks for firearm purchase licences and strengthen supervision of existing licensed gun owners.

East Java Intensifies Firefighting and Prevention Efforts in Bromo

The East Java Provincial Government is intensifying efforts to extinguish and prevent forest and land fires in the Bromo area following the declaration of an emergency status. Authorities are tightening perimeter restrictions and increasing surveillance to minimise the risk of new fire spots. The affected area has expanded to approximately 800 hectares, though the fire trend is reportedly declining.

Government Prepares Tax Incentives for Gold ETFs to Boost Investment

The Indonesian government is preparing tax incentives for Gold Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) to ensure they receive equal treatment with other securities instruments. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto stated that coordination is underway with the Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the Ministry of Finance to accelerate the policy's formulation. The move aims to strengthen Indonesia's position as a gold investment hub, with national gold holdings now valued at approximately US$20 billion.

National Police Traffic Corps Invites Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers to Become Traffic Safety Partners

The National Police Traffic Corps (Korlantas Polri) has called on online motorcycle taxi (ojol) drivers to act as partners in promoting traffic safety and public order. During a meeting with the Ojol Nusantara Association, officials highlighted the drivers' strategic position as frontline public service providers who can report incidents via the 110 hotline. The association, which has over 2,400 members across 22 provinces, expressed its commitment to becoming pioneers of road safety through initiatives like safety riding and first aid.

Indonesia and Illinois Forge Landmark Partnership to Boost Trade, Investment, and Innovation

Indonesia and the US state of Illinois have signed a Statement of Mutual Cooperation, marking the first formal partnership between Jakarta and an individual American state. The agreement aims to foster direct collaboration in trade, investment, advanced manufacturing, agriculture, and research. Both parties will now identify priority sectors and flagship projects to ensure the partnership delivers measurable and mutually beneficial outcomes.

AGO Exercises Caution in Money Laundering Probe Against Former Special Crimes Deputy

The Attorney General's Office (AGO) has stated it is proceeding with caution in the money laundering investigation involving former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah, citing his deep understanding of the law. The probe is linked to the discovery of 74 kilograms of gold and Rp543 billion in cash. Officials have declined to disclose detailed case material, stating that all evidence will be presented during the trial.

Pramono to Hold Special Meeting on Future of Jakarta's Bicycle Lanes

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has announced a dedicated meeting to evaluate the city's bicycle lane facilities following public feedback. The review will consider whether to maintain or modify the lanes, with some residents calling for their removal on certain roads to ease traffic congestion.

Government to Synchronise Hazardous Waste Data for Better Oversight

The Ministry of Environment is updating and reconciling data on hazardous and toxic waste (B3) to better reflect actual conditions in the field. The initiative aims to create a comprehensive picture of the waste management chain, from generation to final processing, by synchronising electronic manifests and facility data. This effort is expected to enhance government supervision and ensure more effective policy-making for environmental and public health protection.

Gus Yahya: 35th NU Congress to Focus on Organisational Programme and Leadership Refreshment

PBNU Chairman KH Yahya Cholil Staquf has stated that the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Congress will prioritise discussions on the organisation's five-year programme and leadership renewal. The congress is scheduled to take place at the Bahrul Ulum Islamic Boarding School in Jombang, East Java, from 27 to 31 August 2026. Ahead of the event, NU branches in South Kalimantan have communicated their request for Gus Yahya to stand for re-election as Chairman.

Ministry of Law Trials E-Voting for Regional Office Head Appointments

The Ministry of Law has conducted an e-voting trial involving employees of the East Java Regional Office to select candidates for the office's leadership. The initiative aims to enhance transparency and implement talent management within the ministry. Secretary General Nico Afinta stated that the digital transformation programme is designed to provide fast, precise, and accountable services both to the public and internally.

Mataram Court Rejects Prosecutors' Appeal in NTB DPRD 'Ghost Money' Graft Case

The Mataram District Court has rejected an appeal filed by the West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) High Prosecutor's Office against the acquittal of three regional councillors in a high-profile gratification case. The court ruled the appeal did not meet formal requirements, prompting prosecutors to announce they will file an objection. The case involved allegations that the three councillors distributed money to fellow legislators to ensure they did not question the implementation of the governor's flagship 'Desa Berdaya' (Empowered Villages) programme.

Jakarta MUI Encourages Cadres to Understand Environmental Fiqh

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) of Jakarta is promoting eco-theology education to instil environmental awareness among Muslims, framing conservation and waste management as religious duties. The initiative aligns with the Jakarta provincial government's intensified efforts to tackle the capital's waste crisis. The council aims to cultivate a generation of religious scholars well-versed in environmental jurisprudence to disseminate this understanding widely.

AHY Emphasises Innovation and Investment for Sustainable Infrastructure

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY), has stressed that sustainable infrastructure development requires innovation, investment, and synergy between the government, businesses, and academics. He highlighted that water security is a national priority on par with food and energy security under President Prabowo Subianto's vision. The remarks were made in conjunction with the Indo Water 2026 Expo & Forum, a major cross-sectoral exhibition in Jakarta.

Ahead of MSCI Review, Indef Says Market Conditions Tend to be Wait and See

Indef's Rizal Taufikurrahman notes market participants are adopting a wait-and-see approach ahead of the MSCI review announcement. The review's outcome is seen as critical for Indonesia's market credibility and investability, with potential to either catalyse foreign capital inflows or increase the risk premium. The assessment will hinge on the substantive implementation of reforms regarding transparency, free float, and liquidity.

Central Java Poultry Farmers Protest Soaring Feed Prices, Low Egg Sales

Poultry farmers in Central Java staged protests across several districts, decrying a 25 percent surge in feed costs since April and a simultaneous drop in egg prices to as low as Rp 15,000 per kilogramme at the farm gate. The farmers also claim the government's free nutritious meal programme (MBG) has had little impact, as purchasing prices remain low. They are demanding lower feed prices and an increased quota of subsidised maize to help offset rising production costs.