Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 11 August 2026

Showing 301-350 of 1,526 articles

NTB Government Targets Completion of Land Legality in Gili Trawangan This Year

The West Nusa Tenggara provincial government aims to resolve all land ownership legality issues in the Gili Trawangan tourism area this year. Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal stated the move is intended to provide legal certainty and foster an inclusive, sustainable tourism climate. The resolution involves clarifying the status of provincial government land and aligning conservation area designations with tourism activities.

AGO Reveals Reason Rinaldi Umar Was Not Appointed as New Jampidsus Director of Investigation

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has explained that Rinaldi Umar was not appointed as the new Director of Investigation for the Special Crimes Unit due to a lack of experience in special crimes. The position was instead given to Saiful Bahri Siregar, a former Bengkulu High Prosecutor, who is considered more mature in the field. Rinaldi Umar will be assigned as Deputy Head of the South Sumatra High Prosecutor's Office.

MSCI Review: Indonesian Blue Chips Seen Avoiding Weight Cuts, BRPT to Stay

Analysts expect Indonesian large-cap stocks to avoid weight reductions in the upcoming MSCI quarterly review, with Barito Pacific (BRPT) likely to remain in the MSCI Global Standard Index. The rebalancing is scheduled for August 12, 2026, though MSCI is maintaining a freeze on new Indonesian stock additions. In contrast, GoTo Gojek Tokopedia (GOTO) is expected to be removed from the index.

Gus Alex Accused of Illegally Enriching Himself by IDR 93.6 Billion in Hajj Quota Corruption Case

Prosecutors have indicted Ishfah Abidal Azis, known as Gus Alex, for allegedly enriching himself by IDR 93.6 billion in a corruption case involving additional hajj quotas for 2023-2024. The case, which also implicates former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, is said to have caused state losses of IDR 622 billion. The indictment details that the quota allocation was manipulated, allowing ineligible pilgrims to depart while eligible ones were denied, with the defendants collecting illegal acceleration fees.

Creative Economy Ministry Aims to Make Tomohon a Globally Competitive Floriculture City

Indonesia's Ministry of Creative Economy is positioning Tomohon, North Sulawesi, as an internationally competitive floriculture destination through the 2026 Tomohon International Flower Festival. The event is expected to boost local economic activity across multiple sectors, including floriculture, crafts, culinary, hospitality, and transport. The ministry is committed to helping regions develop their unique products into high-value creative economic assets to drive national growth.

System Testing: Restrictions on Pertalite Fuel Users to Be Implemented Gradually

The Indonesian government is preparing to restrict subsidised Pertalite fuel purchases for high-income households, specifically targeting the top two income deciles. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated the move aims to ensure the state budget is maintained and energy subsidies are better targeted. A digital screening system developed by Pertamina is currently being tested to prevent ineligible consumers from buying the subsidised fuel.

Lawyer Claims Former Minister Yaqut Wanted All Additional Hajj Quota for Regular Pilgrims, but DPR Objected

The legal team for former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has claimed he proposed allocating the entire 2023 additional hajj quota of 8,000 pilgrims to the regular scheme. They allege the House of Representatives (DPR) blocked this, pushing instead for a larger share for the special hajj programme to protect the hajj fund's value. The statement was made during the first hearing of Yaqut's alleged corruption case at the Central Jakarta District Court.

Police Investigate Slaughter of 36 Goats, Suspect More Than One Perpetrator

Police in Serang are investigating the theft and slaughter of 36 goats from a farm in Pontang district. The perpetrators are believed to have killed the animals in a rice field before attempting to transport the carcasses, leaving the remaining livestock behind. The owner suffered material losses estimated at Rp50 million.

LRT Velodrome-Manggarai to be Inaugurated This Month, Pramono: Date Depends on the Palace

The Jakarta provincial government is preparing to inaugurate the LRT Jakarta Phase 1B route connecting Velodrome to Manggarai this August, though the exact date awaits President Prabowo Subianto's schedule. Governor Pramono Anung has formally requested the president officiate the ceremony for the new link, which will extend the existing line to 12.2 kilometres. Construction is reportedly 97.99 per cent complete, with final testing and safety assessments currently underway.

Ministry of Social Affairs Partners with INABA University on 'Sekolah Rakyat' to Tackle Poverty

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs has formalised a partnership with Universitas Indonesia Membangun (INABA) to expand the 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's Schools) programme, an initiative aimed at breaking the cycle of poverty through education. The collaboration, which builds on six months of existing field activities, focuses on equipping students from underprivileged families with academic knowledge, character development, and vocational skills. Officials emphasised that the programme's success will be measured by graduates' ability to secure employment or pursue higher education, thereby lifting their families out of poverty.

The Silent Action of KH Ahmad Dahlan: Muhammadiyah's Legacy for the Nation

An analysis of KH Ahmad Dahlan's enduring legacy explores how the founder of Muhammadiyah transformed prayer into a social movement through education and institutionalised charity. The article argues that his 'Theology of Al-Ma'un' remains a powerful critique of symbolic religiosity, demanding that faith must produce tangible social consequences. It posits that a great nation is one capable of institutionalising goodness, moving beyond individual charity to create sustainable systems of justice.

Indonesia, China seek stronger drug, food regulatory cooperation

Indonesia and China are moving to deepen regulatory cooperation in the pharmaceutical and food sectors to ensure product safety and quality. BPOM Head Taruna Ikrar highlighted China's role as a key supplier of pharmaceutical raw materials and discussed renewing a bilateral agreement with a broader scope. The collaboration aims to facilitate faster access to medicines and vaccines while supporting investment and technology transfer in Indonesia's health industry.

KP2MI Opens Registration for Asta Mandala SMK Go Global Training

The Ministry of Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (KP2MI) has opened registration for the first phase of the SMK Go Global capacity-building programme, targeting 500,000 prospective migrant workers. The initiative, part of President Prabowo Subianto's directive, aims to equip young Indonesians with the technical, language, and cultural skills needed for international labour markets. Training will cover priority sectors such as healthcare, hospitality, and manufacturing, with placements mapped to specific destination countries.

Jakarta Fines Waste Haulage Firm Rp 10 Million for Illegal Dumping in Cilincing

The Jakarta provincial government has fined PT Sinar Berdikari Cemerlang Idaman (SBCI) Rp 10 million for illegally dumping waste at an unauthorised site in Cilincing, North Jakarta. The sanction follows an investigation by the Environmental Agency, which identified the company's vehicles and secured an admission from its representatives. Authorities have issued a formal warning and pledged to intensify oversight of the entire waste transportation chain to prevent further violations.

BKPRMI Urges Investigation into Alcohol Promotion Linked to Quran Memorisation

The Indonesian Mosque Youth Communication Agency (BKPRMI) has called for a thorough evaluation and potential legal action over a viral promotional event that offered alcoholic beverages as a reward for memorising a Quranic verse. The organisation argues that using religious activities to market alcohol is inappropriate and demands authorities investigate possible violations of advertising regulations and consumer protection laws. Police in North Jakarta have launched an inquiry into the incident, which occurred during a music festival in Ancol.

Tanah Laut turns waste management into a pillar for tourism

The Tanah Laut government in South Kalimantan is integrating waste management with environmental preservation to boost its tourism appeal. A visiting official from the Ministry of Environment praised the cleanliness of the Bakunci landfill and highlighted its role in supporting local attractions like Bukit Sapu Angin and Pantai Batakan. The initiative includes composting facilities and tree planting, reinforcing the link between a clean environment and regional tourism development.

Obituary: Former ESDM Secretary General Rida Mulyana Passes Away

Rida Mulyana, the former Secretary General of Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), has died at the age of 63. A respected figure in the energy sector, he previously held key positions including Director General of New Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation (EBTKE) and Commissioner of state oil company Pertamina. He passed away at Pondok Indah Bintaro Hospital in Jakarta.

Minister Purbaya Promises Gradual Restrictions on Pertalite Purchases

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has announced that restrictions on subsidised Pertalite fuel will be implemented in stages, initially targeting the wealthiest households. The policy, discussed with Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia, aims to safeguard the state budget amid volatile global oil prices.

Nail Biting: A Small Habit with Big Risks

The Indonesian Ministry of Health warns that the common habit of nail biting, or onychophagia, can lead to serious health issues such as paronychia, a bacterial skin infection. The habit also facilitates the transfer of germs from the hands to the mouth, increasing the risk of digestive and respiratory infections. Health officials recommend keeping nails trimmed and using distraction techniques to manage the urge.

Anti-Corruption Activists: Catch the Perpetrators and Pursue the Proceeds of Crime

Anti-corruption activists and legal experts have urged law enforcement to go beyond naming suspects by thoroughly tracing illicit funds and prosecuting all beneficiaries of corruption. During a book review forum in Jakarta, speakers highlighted the need to utilise money laundering laws proactively and to investigate predicate offences. The discussion also raised concerns about the selective use of anti-corruption instruments and the necessity of institutional reform to ensure accountability.

Book Review: Eradicating Corruption While Corrupting: Don't Just Catch the Perpetrators, Chase the Money and the Original Crime

A discussion of a new book argues that Indonesia's anti-corruption efforts must go beyond naming suspects to fully trace illicit financial flows and predicate offences. Legal experts and former officials at the event called for a comprehensive approach, prioritisation of targets, and adherence to constitutional mandates in natural resource management to prevent systemic graft.

Experts Call for Institutional Overhaul and Management Approach in Corruption Eradication

A panel of experts has called for a comprehensive evaluation of Indonesia's anti-corruption institutions, highlighting the need for stronger oversight, limited authority, and a management-based strategy. During a book review event in Jakarta, speakers including former KPK commissioner Saut Situmorang and criminal law expert Chairul Huda debated the fragmentation of investigative powers and the risk of power abuse. The discussion also proposed prioritising law enforcement reform and using financial audits to ensure institutional accountability.

Fire on Mount Gede Remains Uncontained

A wildfire near Kawah Wadon in Mount Gede Pangrango National Park, West Java, remains uncontained, with an estimated 5.8 hectares affected. Firefighting efforts are being hampered by deep peat layers, difficult terrain, and limited water access. Authorities are coordinating with volunteers and local communities to prevent the fire from spreading further.

Tokyo Increases Subsidies for Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Purchases

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has raised subsidies for electric and hybrid vehicle purchases to accelerate the shift away from fossil fuel cars. The new scheme offers up to 1.3 million yen for electric vehicles and 1.15 million yen for hybrids, with additional incentives for renewable energy use and vehicle-to-load capability. The subsidies vary by manufacturer, with domestic brands like Toyota, Nissan, and Honda receiving higher top-ups compared to foreign competitors such as BYD and Tesla.

The Illusion of Peace Under the Shadow of 'Greater Israel' and the Business Trap of New Gaza

The article argues that Israel's accelerated illegal settlement expansion in the West Bank and East Jerusalem exposes the 'Two-State Solution' as a utopian illusion, driven by an ideological ambition for a 'Greater Israel'. It further contends that the 'New Gaza' project and its Board of Peace scheme are merely a business trap designed to consolidate American economic control and pacify Palestinian resistance. The author calls for Muslim unity under a Caliphate as the only viable path to liberate Al-Quds, rejecting any compromise with the occupying entity.

Boost Investment, Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga: Debottlenecking Task Force Completes 124 Company Complaints

The Indonesian government's Debottlenecking Task Force has resolved 124 out of 170 operational complaints from companies, aiming to improve the business climate and support economic growth. Coordinating Minister Airlangga urged issuers to utilise the task force for swift solutions and to uphold performance, governance, and capital market optimisation. The government is also promoting this complaint channel globally through embassies to attract and assist foreign investors.

Poem by Sekolah Rakyat Student Opens Ministry of Social Affairs' 81st Independence Day Commemoration

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs commenced its 81st Independence Day celebrations with a poetry recital by a student from Sekolah Rakyat, a government-run school for underprivileged children. Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf used the occasion to urge staff to foster collaboration and uphold integrity in delivering social programmes. He also highlighted recent poverty reduction figures as evidence of the success of President Prabowo Subianto's data consolidation strategy for targeted social assistance.

Indonesia's Debottlenecking Task Force Resolves 124 Investment Hurdles, Eyes Global Outreach

The Indonesian government's Debottlenecking Task Force has successfully resolved 124 out of 170 reported operational obstacles for companies, according to Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto. The initiative aims to streamline bureaucratic processes and improve the business climate to support sustainable economic growth. In a parallel effort to attract foreign capital, the Ministry of Finance is collaborating with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to promote a similar Government Strategic Program Acceleration Task Force to global investors through Indonesian embassies worldwide.

BPK: Supreme Court Follows Up 96.65 Percent of Audit Recommendations

The Supreme Court has acted upon 96.65 percent of the Audit Board of Indonesia's (BPK) recommendations as of the second semester of 2025, reflecting a strong commitment to improving governance. The BPK also noted the court has maintained an unqualified opinion on its financial reports for 14 consecutive years. The audit body urged continued focus on strengthening internal controls, asset management, and regulatory compliance across related ministries.

Bahlil Meets Purbaya to Discuss Restrictions on Pertalite Purchases

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia met with Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa to discuss making fuel subsidies more targeted. Bahlil stated that the current system allows wealthy individuals, including those in the top income brackets, to benefit from subsidised fuel. The government is seeking a distribution system to ensure the hundreds of trillions of rupiah allocated for subsidies reach the intended recipients.

Bali Records 174 Operational 'Red and White' Village Cooperatives, Mostly Grocery Outlets

Bali's Cooperatives and SMEs Agency reports that 174 Merah Putih Village Cooperatives (KDKMP) are now operational across the island, with the majority running grocery stores. While physical construction of cooperative buildings faces delays due to land and funding issues, officials stress that business activity is not dependent on new structures. The provincial government is urging central authorities to focus on human resource training and capital access to support the cooperatives' development.

Ahead of MSCI Review, Analyst Says Indonesian Stock Market Still in Recovery Phase

Indonesia's stock market remains in a fragile recovery phase ahead of the MSCI index review, with significant foreign investor pressure still evident. An analyst projects a neutral to slightly negative impact from the August review due to a continued freeze on Indonesian stocks, though the risk of weight reduction persists for some shares. Market focus is now on the government's implementation of capital market reforms, as failure could risk a downgrade to Frontier Market status.

Jakarta Considers Removing Bicycle Lanes on Protocol Roads

The Jakarta provincial government is considering the removal of bicycle lanes from several major thoroughfares following public feedback. Governor Pramono Anung stated that a special meeting will be held to decide whether the existing cycling infrastructure should be maintained or repurposed. The current lanes, established under a 2019 gubernatorial regulation, have been criticised as ineffective due to frequent use by motorised vehicles.

idAA+ Rating Affirms Askrindo's Strong Business Fundamentals and Financial Capacity

PT Asuransi Kredit Indonesia (Askrindo) has maintained its idAA+ rating with a stable outlook from Pefindo, reflecting its robust financial health and strong business fundamentals. The rating underscores the state-owned insurer's very strong capacity to meet long-term financial obligations amid a dynamic financial services sector. Askrindo's management highlighted its prudent risk management and strategic role in supporting national financing programmes, including KUR and surety bonds.

Outcry Over Ad-Dhuha Memorisation Challenge for Alcohol Prize, PAN Youth Wing: Public Spaces Must Be Protected!

The youth wing of the National Mandate Party (BM PAN) has strongly condemned a music festival promotion that allegedly used a Quranic verse memorisation challenge as a gimmick to give away alcoholic drinks. Chairman Slamet Ariyadi described the act as excessive and hurtful to religious sensitivities, urging authorities to take action. Police in North Jakarta are currently investigating the event for suspected blasphemy.

Traffic Police Chief Invites Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers to Become Road Safety Pioneers

The head of the Indonesian National Police Traffic Corps has called on online motorcycle taxi drivers to act as partners in promoting road safety. During a meeting with a national drivers' association, he highlighted their daily presence on the roads as a vital link between the police and the public. The initiative aims to leverage the drivers' extensive community interaction to improve traffic safety and incident reporting.

Government Debt Reaches Rp10,293 Trillion, 41% of GDP

Indonesia's central government debt climbed to Rp10,293 trillion as of the end of June 2026, representing 41.26% of gross domestic product. The Ministry of Finance emphasised that the debt is managed prudently and remains well below the legal ceiling of 60% of GDP. The majority of the debt portfolio consists of government securities.

Dharma Jaya pushes for food self-sufficiency in Jakarta, reduces imported cattle reliance

Jakarta's regional-owned enterprise Dharma Jaya is spearheading efforts to achieve food self-sufficiency by strengthening local protein production and developing integrated farming. The initiative aims to reduce the capital's heavy dependence on imported live cattle, which exposes prices to currency fluctuations. The plan includes building a 20-hectare integrated farming zone in Tangerang and optimising local breeder capacity.

Trump Guarded by Avenger Missile System While Golfing in New Jersey

President Donald Trump was provided with heavy security, including an Avenger surface-to-air missile system, during a golf outing at his New Jersey club. The deployment follows multiple assassination attempts against the former president, with NORAD confirming it had intercepted aircraft near the Bedminster course. The visible security escalation underscores ongoing concerns for the safety of high-profile US political figures.

Airlangga: Indonesia's Pertalite and Biodiesel Supply Secure Despite Global Turmoil

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has assured that Indonesia's supply of Pertalite fuel and biodiesel will remain secure until the end of the year. He noted that crude oil purchases are averaging around US$91 per barrel, and the nation's reliance on domestic coal for electricity helps mitigate the impact of global energy price fluctuations. This energy stability has supported Indonesia's economic growth, which reached 5.45 per cent in the first half of the year, placing it among the top performers in ASEAN and the G20.

Foreign Ministry Launches IORA 2026 Task Force to Strengthen Indian Ocean Diplomacy

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has launched a dedicated task force to spearhead its engagement with the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) ahead of key leadership roles. The initiative aims to shift domestic coordination from an ad-hoc basis to a structured, continuous effort to advance national interests in the strategically vital region. The task force will focus on maritime security, the blue economy, and optimising special funding to bolster partnerships across the Indian Ocean rim.

Vessel Carrying Jessica Mila Defies Closure Order to Sail to Padar Island, Sparking Industry Outrage

A tourist boat carrying Indonesian celebrity Jessica Mila and her family sailed to Padar Island despite an official closure due to bad weather, prompting outrage from local boat operators' associations. The vessel only had a permit to sail to Rinca Island, and the associations have demanded strict sanctions against the captain for endangering passenger safety. The Labuan Bajo Port Authority has since suspended the captain's licence.

Benny K. Harman Apologises After Telling Journalists to 'Use Your Brain'

Democratic Party politician Benny K. Harman has issued a public apology after telling journalists to 'use your brain' when they repeatedly asked about former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's attendance at the 2026 MPR Annual Session. Harman explained that his outburst was a spontaneous reaction to persistent questioning despite his clear explanation that Yudhoyono was undergoing medical check-ups in the United States until the end of the month. The incident has drawn attention amid broader concerns over the treatment of journalists in Indonesia.

USK ready to strengthen education collaboration in Aceh

Syiah Kuala University (USK) has expressed its readiness to enhance collaboration with Ar-Raniry State Islamic University (UIN) and the Ministry of Religious Affairs to integrate academic knowledge with national and religious character building in Aceh. The commitment was made following a public lecture by Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar, who highlighted Aceh's vital role in Indonesia's religious history. The initiative aims to develop human resources and position Aceh as a centre for Islamic civilisation.

Black Market for Corruption Information in China: Leaks of Purges Rife on Social Media

A clandestine market for information on China's anti-corruption purges has emerged on social media, challenging President Xi Jinping's sweeping disciplinary campaign. Anonymous accounts are reportedly selling tips on upcoming targets, with leaks valuable enough to influence stock market trading. The phenomenon highlights deep-rooted corruption and the opacity of the political system, despite harsh crackdowns on whistleblowers.

New Threat from China: Microsoft Warns of Storm-1175 Ransomware Group

Microsoft has identified a new ransomware variant, StormEncryptor, deployed by the Chinese threat actor Storm-1175. The group, previously known for using Medusa ransomware, is exploiting a recently patched vulnerability in N-able N-central software to gain initial access to systems. The rapid attack chain, from initial breach to data exfiltration and encryption, can be completed in a matter of days, prompting urgent calls for system administrators to apply security updates.

Pramono Anung Condemns Quran Memorisation Challenge Offering Alcohol at Jakarta Music Festival

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has strongly condemned a viral incident at a music festival where a booth challenged attendees to memorise Quranic verses in exchange for alcoholic beverages. Pramono described the act as a desecration of religious life and has instructed his welfare assistant to coordinate with authorities for firm action. The incident, which occurred at 'The Sounds Project' in Ancol, sparked outrage after a video circulated showing a participant reciting Surah Adh-Dhuha to win the prize.

Newport Director Apologises, Admits Negligence During The Sounds Project Festival

Newport's director has issued a public apology following the circulation of a video showing inappropriate activity at the brand's booth during The Sounds Project music festival. The company admitted to lapses in supervision, stating the incident was a spontaneous act by visitors and not part of a planned promotion. Newport has taken internal disciplinary action and pledged to implement stricter operational guidelines to respect religious and cultural values.

Newport Apologises After Quran Recitation Swapped for Alcohol Promotion

Newport's management has issued a public apology after a viral video showed a woman reciting the Quran in exchange for alcohol at a music festival in Jakarta. The company claims the incident was a spontaneous act by a visitor and not a planned promotion, acknowledging a lapse in supervision. The case has sparked outrage and led to police reports from Muslim advocacy groups alleging blasphemy.

Minister of Religious Affairs: UIN Ar-Raniry Aceh Must Become a Centre of Modern Islamic Civilisation

Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar has called on UIN Ar-Raniry in Banda Aceh to strengthen its role as a global centre for modern Islamic civilisation and scientific development. He highlighted Aceh's strategic historical and geographical position, arguing that Indonesia is the safest and most suitable place to adopt and advance Islamic knowledge. The Minister also urged the academic community to use the Quran as a source of scientific inspiration and to pioneer new methodologies.