Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 11 August 2026

Showing 251-300 of 1,526 articles

Indonesia transforms land services to close loopholes for land mafia

The Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning is overhauling its land services to eliminate opportunities for land mafia exploitation. Minister Nusron Wahid announced measures including data integration with local governments, a 10-day limit for title transfers starting in 2026, and a focus on transparency and human resource integrity. The minister stressed that clean, integrated data and faster services are essential to shutting down illegal broker activities.

INTI 2026 Exhibition Showcases Diverse Technological Innovations

The Indonesia Technology & Innovation (INTI) 2026 exhibition opened in Jakarta, bringing together industry players, government, investors, and academics. The event aims to strengthen collaboration and drive the development of Indonesia's digital ecosystem from upstream to downstream. It features 952 exhibitors from eight countries and targets 30,000 visitors from 20 nations.

KAI Launches Independence Day Livery on Intercity Trains

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) has introduced a special red and white livery on several intercity trains to commemorate the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence. The livery, bearing the official theme 'Indonesia Berdaulat, Adil, dan Makmur', adorns trains connecting major cities across Java. KAI stated the initiative aims to bring the spirit of independence closer to the public during their journeys.

Kemenpora Invites Public to Celebrate Independence Day with Merdeka Run 2026

The Ministry of Youth and Sports (Kemenpora) is inviting the public to celebrate the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence with a healthy and spirited activity. The Merdeka Run 2026, themed 'Bangun, Bergerak, Merdeka' (Rise, Move, Be Free), will take place on 29 August 2026. The event will feature an 8-kilometre run starting from the Merdeka Palace, alongside a UMKM fair, culinary festival, drone show, and musical performances.

Eight killed in North Sulawesi drag race crash, police launch investigation

A fatal crash during an authorised drag race tournament in North Sulawesi has left eight people dead and eight others seriously injured. Police have launched an investigation and are questioning five individuals, including the driver, for potential criminal negligence. The incident has raised questions about safety standards at officially sanctioned motorsport events in Indonesia.

Grab Launches GrabAcademy to Help Driver-Partners 'Level Up'

Grab Indonesia has launched GrabAcademy, a new initiative designed to provide its driver-partners with more opportunities for learning and development. The programme, backed by an investment of over Rp100 billion this year, aims to help partners expand their capacity and strengthen their businesses. Grab plans to collaborate with the government, educational institutions, and MSME communities to broaden the programme's benefits.

House Commission IV Urges Government to Redesign Meat Supply Scheme Amid Rising Prices

A senior Indonesian legislator has called on the government to overhaul its national meat supply strategy, warning that reliance on imports will cause continued price volatility throughout 2026. The statement follows reports that average beef and buffalo prices have exceeded the government's official selling price, with some regions seeing prices surpass Rp200,000 per kilogram. Despite projected total availability exceeding national demand, the lawmaker argued that secure supply on paper does not necessarily translate to stable prices for consumers.

Cirebon Prepares for Hydrometeorological Disasters as Drought Affects Thousands

The Cirebon City Government is shifting towards anticipatory measures to tackle water shortages, as drought has already impacted over 3,000 residents in the Argasunya sub-district. Mayor Effendi Edo highlighted a significant rise in hydrometeorological disasters, with incidents nearly doubling from 2020 to 2025. Authorities have distributed tens of thousands of litres of water and declared a state of emergency to strengthen mitigation efforts.

Avoiding Gambling Elements in Independence Day Competitions: A Fiqh Perspective

As Indonesia celebrates its Independence Day with various traditional competitions, a scholar from Rumah Fiqih clarifies the Islamic boundaries between festive games and prohibited gambling. The explanation details four specific criteria that transform a simple contest into haram gambling. By understanding these conditions, Muslim communities can ensure their celebrations remain permissible and joyful without violating religious principles.

House Commission VII Highlights Waste and Clean Water Crisis in NTB's Gili Islands

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) Commission VII has urged the West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) provincial government to swiftly address mounting waste and clean water issues in the Gili Islands. Vice Chair Rahayu Saraswati Djojohadikusumo expressed concern that inoperable incinerators and overlapping conservation area statuses are hindering waste management. Meanwhile, local officials are seeking central government permits for beach well extraction as a technical solution to the water shortage affecting Gili Meno.

Wamendagri Welcomes 65 Papuan Students Arriving in Jakarta for Further Education

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Ribka Haluk has welcomed 65 students from the remote highlands and interior of Papua who arrived in Jakarta to continue their education. The students, recruited through the Yayasan Pendidikan Harapan Papua (YPHP) programme, will study in Tangerang after a seven-day sea journey. Ribka praised the initiative as a challenging effort to break through geographical barriers and urged the students to adapt and study diligently.

Neo Karya Internasional and AI Rudder Collaborate to Strengthen Digital Solutions with AI Voice Agent

Indonesian technology company Neo Karya Internasional has partnered with AI Rudder to integrate AI Voice Agent technology into its digital solutions. The collaboration aims to help businesses manage high-volume voice interactions through automation while maintaining natural conversation flow. The initiative reflects the growing adoption of artificial intelligence to enhance operational efficiency and customer experience across various industries.

Floods Recede in Depok's Bulak Barat After River Normalisation, New Bridge Planned

Floodwaters that had submerged a road in Bulak Barat, Cipayung, Depok, for months have finally receded following river normalisation efforts by the local government. The receding waters have revealed a mud-covered bridge, with heavy machinery still on site to complete dredging works. Depok Mayor Supian Suri has announced plans to build a new bridge and complete the river dredging this year as a short-term solution to the persistent flooding.

Navy Major Smuggles Meth on Military Plane, Packages Inscribed with 'Umrah Congratulations'

A high-ranking Indonesian Navy officer, Major Faisal Mulia, has been charged with trafficking methamphetamine using a military aircraft. The drugs, destined for Madiun, were disguised in packages bearing the message 'selamat umrah' (congratulations on your pilgrimage). The officer was apprehended after handing a box containing 12 packages of meth to the crew of a CN-235 military plane in Tanjungpinang.

NASA Invites India to Join Ambitious Lunar Base Programme

The United States has invited India to participate in NASA's lunar base programme as part of efforts to deepen space partnership between the two nations. The invitation was extended during a joint working group meeting on civil space cooperation held in Bengaluru. The proposed lunar outpost aims to support a sustained human presence on the Moon and prepare for future deep space exploration.

Drought Drives Significant Rise in Staple Food Prices in Subang

A prolonged dry season has triggered a sharp increase in the prices of essential food commodities in Subang Regency, West Java. Local authorities report that agricultural products such as corn and long beans have seen prices double, while other staples have risen by up to 30 per cent. The government is being urged to intervene as reduced supply begins to impact household budgets.

Former Minister's Aide Accused of Embezzling Rp93.6 Billion in Hajj Quota Scandal

Ishfah Abidal Azis, a former special staffer to ex-Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, has been charged with illicitly enriching himself by approximately Rp93.6 billion in a case involving the mismanagement of additional hajj quotas. The defendant rejected the charges as 'tyrannical' and insisted that no state losses were incurred during the 2023 and 2024 pilgrimages. Prosecutors allege the quota-filling process bypassed legal mechanisms, resulting in eligible pilgrims being denied departure while others without proper waiting periods were accommodated.

PLN Confirms 100% Electrification in Rejang Lebong Regency

State electricity company PLN has confirmed that all 122 villages and 34 sub-districts in Rejang Lebong Regency, Bengkulu, now have access to electricity. While full village-level coverage has been achieved, the company is working to connect a few remaining isolated hamlets, including Dusun Palembang Kecil, by the end of the year. The acting regent has pledged local government support to help expand the network to these remote areas.

Minister Fadli Zon: Affirmation of STEM Education is Appropriate

Indonesian Minister of Culture Fadli Zon has stated that the government's policy of affirming STEM education is correct, arguing that the humanities are already well-established. He noted that Indonesia lags behind other nations in science and technology, necessitating a push for experts in fields like rocketry and quantum physics. The remarks were made during a national symposium where academics discussed strengthening the position of the humanities alongside STEM disciplines.

KPK and BPKP Examine Rudy Tanoe to Calculate State Losses in Rice Social Assistance Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) and the Financial and Development Supervisory Agency (BPKP) have examined Rudy Tanoe, a commissioner of PT Dosni Roha Logistik, as a witness. The examination focused on the mechanism of distributing rice social assistance for the Family Hope Programme, which allegedly did not reach the intended beneficiaries. The investigation aims to calculate state financial losses resulting from the alleged unlawful acts in the procurement and distribution process.

Amazon Built a Massive Data Centre in a California Town for 5 Years Without Residents' Knowledge

Residents of Gilroy, California, only discovered Amazon's secretive 4-hectare data centre project after construction had already begun, sparking outrage over a lack of transparency. The tech giant exploited a 45-year-old zoning rule that bypassed public consultation, raising concerns about electricity costs, water consumption, and environmental impact. Despite Amazon's subsequent offers of community benefits, locals are demanding earlier involvement for future large-scale developments.

West Jakarta Administration Distributes 8,000 Flags Ahead of Independence Day

The West Jakarta city administration has distributed 8,000 Indonesian flags to residents and road users to mark the 81st anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia's independence. The initiative follows a directive from the Ministry of Home Affairs aimed at fostering national pride and unity. Mayor Iin Mutmainnah has also instructed sub-district and village heads to encourage all citizens to fly the flag at their homes.

DPR Member Condemns Alcoholic Beverage Promotion Using Quranic Verse

Maman Imanul Haq, a member of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR), has strongly condemned a promotional event for Newport alcoholic beverages that used a challenge to recite Surah Ad-Dhuha. The politician described the act as unethical and insulting to Islam, demanding the organisers take responsibility. He urged all event and marketing teams to learn from this incident and avoid sacrificing religious values for the sake of virality.

Civil Society Coalition Condemns TNI Commander's Statement on Public Security Responsibility

A coalition of civil society organisations has strongly criticised the Indonesian Military (TNI) Commander, General Agus Subiyanto, for claiming responsibility for public security across Indonesia. The group argues the statement blurs the constitutional separation between defence and domestic security, risking a return to military dominance in civilian life. They have urged the President to halt unjustified military involvement in civil affairs and called for parliamentary oversight.

Budi Delta Swakarya Increases Stake in BUDI with Rp43 Billion Share Purchase

PT Budi Delta Swakarya, the controlling shareholder of PT Budi Starch & Sweetener (BUDI), has acquired an additional 204 million shares, increasing its ownership to 37.65%. The transaction, valued at Rp43 billion, was executed at Rp210 per share, a price below the market rate at the time. Management stated the purchase was made for long-term investment purposes.

East Java Deputy Governor Pushes for Commercialisation of 38 Student Innovations

East Java Deputy Governor Emil Dardak has urged Universitas Muhammadiyah Surabaya to transform 38 appropriate technology innovations into market-ready products. The innovations, developed during a community service programme, include 11 that have already received simple copyright recognition and 26 currently undergoing the patent process. Dardak emphasised that the success of such technology is measured by its practical use and potential entry into the government procurement e-catalogue.

Minister: Online Motorcycle Taxi Presidential Regulation to Be Finalised Within a Week

The Indonesian government is set to finalise a presidential regulation governing the online motorcycle taxi (ojol) ecosystem within the next week, with only a few articles remaining to be resolved. The regulation aims to provide a positive legal framework for the sector's growth and sustainability, while also reclassifying drivers as micro-entrepreneurs. Ride-hailing company Grab has welcomed the upcoming regulation, noting its spirit of protecting and elevating the status of driver-partners.

Government to Restrict Subsidised Pertalite Purchases for High-Income Groups

The Indonesian government is planning to restrict the purchase of subsidised Pertalite fuel for high-income groups, specifically targeting vehicle owners in the top economic deciles. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated that the restriction will be implemented in the coming months once the system is ready, while Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia emphasised that wealthy individuals driving luxury cars should not benefit from fuel subsidies.

Sumbawa Resident Blocks Deputy Regent's Car to Protest Damaged Roads and Water Crisis

A resident of Mata Village in Sumbawa, West Nusa Tenggara, staged a protest by blocking the car of Deputy Regent Mohamad Ansori to demand the repair of severely damaged roads. The man, Jamaludin, also highlighted the lack of clean water access for residents of neighbouring Tolo Oi village. The protest, which went viral on social media, was a response to unfulfilled government promises regarding local infrastructure.

House Commission III Issues Four Recommendations on Death of Ex-Wife of Brigadier I in Medan

House of Representatives Commission III has issued four recommendations following a closed-door meeting regarding the death of WLG, the ex-wife of Brigadier I, who is suspected of having died by suicide. The commission urged the Medan Police to conduct a thorough, transparent, and professional investigation. It also requested that the North Sumatra Regional Police supervise the case and ensure the family is given full access to information.

Government to Classify Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers as Micro Enterprises

The Indonesian government is considering classifying online motorcycle taxi (ojol) drivers as micro-enterprises (UMKM) to provide them with better protection and opportunities. The Ministry of UMKM aims to help drivers upgrade their skills and businesses, while a presidential regulation is being drafted to govern the ride-hailing sector comprehensively.

Airlangga Claims Pertalite and Biodiesel Supply Secure Until Year-End

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has assured that Indonesia's supply of Pertalite fuel and biodiesel will remain secure through the end of the year, despite ongoing global conflicts. He noted that the country's average crude oil purchase price remains around USD 91 per barrel, and that Indonesia's energy supply routes are not dependent on the volatile Strait of Hormuz. The minister also highlighted that domestic electricity supply is stable due to the reliance on coal-fired power plants.

Government to Restrict Subsidised Fuel Purchases Based on Vehicle Type

The Indonesian government is formulating criteria to restrict subsidised fuel purchases, targeting high-end vehicles like BMWs and Mercedes. Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia emphasised that the policy aims to ensure subsidies reach the intended recipients, while motorcycle users will remain unaffected. The Ministry of Finance is currently testing Pertamina's digital systems to implement the restrictions and prevent leakage to wealthy households.

Mayor says face-to-face services important for humanistic approach

Tangerang Mayor Sachrudin has emphasised the importance of face-to-face services in maintaining a humanistic approach, as the city strengthens its Public Service Mall. The city is also introducing various innovations to improve business licensing and investment climate. Tangerang has been nominated as one of the top six regions for its excellent performance in integrated licensing services at the national level.

Sumedang allocates minimum Rp100 billion for road repairs in 2027

The Sumedang Regency Government in West Java has earmarked at least Rp100 billion for road infrastructure improvements in 2027. The allocation, agreed upon with the local parliament, aims to accelerate repairs on nearly 800 kilometres of regency roads. Officials are targeting a road stability rate of 95 per cent by next year.

Jakarta Governor Pramono to Review Capital's Bicycle Lanes

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung will soon hold a special meeting to discuss the future of the capital's bicycle lanes. The review will consider whether to maintain the existing lanes or modify them, following public feedback that some lanes are underutilised on weekdays and contribute to congestion.

Elderly Couple in Bantul Scammed by Fake BPJS Officers, 55 Grams of Gold Stolen

An elderly couple in Bantul, Yogyakarta, fell victim to a theft by three women posing as BPJS health workers offering massage therapy. The perpetrators made off with 55 grams of gold jewellery and Rp5 million in cash while distracting the victims. Police have arrested a male driver linked to the gang and are pursuing four other suspects.

Senior security, law enforcement officials hold strategic gathering

Senior Indonesian security and law enforcement leaders convened to enhance interinstitutional coordination amid evolving political and security dynamics. The meeting underscored the importance of early problem identification and synergy between the TNI, ministries, and other agencies to maintain public order. Officials affirmed that sustained collaboration is essential to ensure national stability and the smooth execution of government programmes.

Non-Tax State Revenue from Energy and Mineral Resources Sector Forecast to Exceed 2026 Target

Indonesia's Finance Minister projects that Non-Tax State Revenue (PNBP) from the energy and mineral resources sector will surpass its 2026 target, following a strong performance in the first seven months of the year. By July, the sector had already collected Rp 96.26 trillion, representing over 70% of the annual goal. The Energy Minister confirmed the optimistic outlook, citing robust contributions from both the oil and gas and the mineral and coal sub-sectors.

IBK Foundation Signs MoU with BBPVP Serang to Enhance Human Resource Quality in Banten

The IBK Foundation has entered into a strategic partnership with the Serang Centre for Vocational Training and Productivity to boost workforce skills and community economic empowerment in Banten. The collaboration, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding, will focus on vocational training, certification, job placement, and entrepreneurship development. The initiative aims to reduce unemployment and produce a globally competitive generation under the foundation's IBK Akademi programme.

National Police Issue Wanted List for Two Suspects in Bali Nightclub Drug Case

The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Department (Bareskrim) has issued a wanted list (DPO) for two men, including the owner of the Five Stars nightclub in Denpasar, Bali, in connection with a drug trafficking case. The suspects, identified as Tony Budiarto and Wahyu Sulistianto, are being sought after a recent raid at the venue led to the detention of 53 individuals. Authorities have urged the public to report any sightings of the pair to the nearest police station.

Ministry of SMEs and OJK Agree to Accelerate Financing Access for MSMEs

Indonesia's Ministry of SMEs and the Financial Services Authority (OJK) have signed a memorandum of understanding to accelerate financing access for micro, small, and medium enterprises. The collaboration aims to boost the bank credit ratio for MSMEs from the current 16.7 percent to a targeted 25 percent by 2029, while also addressing market access to prevent non-performing loans. A joint task force will be established to help MSMEs upgrade and become a primary driver of the national economy.

Aceh Besar accelerates drought-stricken rice field mitigation

The Aceh Besar district government is intensifying efforts to combat drought affecting over 2,100 hectares of rice fields by deploying water pumps and drilling wells. The initiative, involving collaboration with the Sumatra River Basin Agency and the local disaster mitigation agency, aims to prevent crop failure, particularly in areas where rice is in critical growth stages. Officials state the pump distribution and well construction represent a concrete commitment to supporting farmers during the prolonged dry season.

Jakarta Governor Pramono Reviews Anies-Era Bicycle Lanes for Potential Removal

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has announced a review of the city's bicycle lanes, originally introduced under former Governor Anies Baswedan, following public feedback. The administration is considering removing or repurposing the lanes on certain main roads. A decision is expected after a dedicated government meeting.

Pramono Requests President Prabowo to Inaugurate Kelapa Gading-Manggarai LRT

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has formally requested President Prabowo Subianto to inaugurate the new Kelapa Gading-Manggarai LRT route. The 12.2-kilometre line, featuring 11 stations, is expected to reduce travel time to approximately 28 minutes. The inauguration date remains subject to the Presidential Palace's schedule, with further extension plans to Dukuh Atas already in the pipeline.

Ministry of Transport accelerates land transport modernisation through global collaboration

Indonesia's Ministry of Transport is strengthening international cooperation to modernise land transport, focusing on digitalisation, safety, and sustainability. The initiative was highlighted at the 35th ASEAN Land Transport Working Group meeting in Jakarta, where Indonesia currently serves as chair. The ministry emphasised that isolated national strategies are insufficient to address complex global challenges such as supply chain disruptions and climate change.

Drought: 8.7 Million Litres of Water Distributed to 23 Regions in West Java

The West Java provincial government has distributed 8.7 million litres of clean water to combat a worsening drought affecting over 450,000 residents across 23 districts and cities. Bekasi Regency received the largest share, with 3.8 million litres supplied to nearly 45,000 people. Authorities are deploying additional tankers and intensifying mitigation efforts as the dry season impacts water sources across the province.

Bashar Al-Assad Sentenced to Death In Absentia for Crimes Against Humanity

A Syrian court has sentenced former President Bashar al-Assad and his brother Maher to death in absentia for crimes against humanity, including murder and torture. The verdict, delivered by the Supreme Court, also saw a former security chief receive the same sentence while present in court. The ruling comes after Assad fled the country in December 2024 following a major offensive by opposition forces.

Pratikno: Cloud Seeding in Bromo Cannot Proceed Due to Lack of Clouds

Coordinating Minister Pratikno has stated that weather modification operations to combat forest and land fires in the Mount Bromo area cannot be carried out because there are no clouds. Forecasts predict suitable clouds will not appear for another four days. Meanwhile, two fire hotspots remain in the area, and the government is maintaining water bombing efforts while urging regional authorities to strengthen their firefighting capacity.

Five Reported to Police Over Al-Quran Recitation for Alcohol Promotion

An advocate has filed a police report against five individuals following a controversial incident at The Sounds Project music festival in North Jakarta, where a woman recited verses from the Al-Quran in exchange for a bottle of alcohol. The reported parties include the event organiser, the alcohol brand's producer, and the individuals involved in the spontaneous act. The brand Newport and the festival organiser have both issued apologies, stating the incident was not part of any planned promotion and expressing regret for the lapse in supervision.