Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 12 August 2026

Showing 451-500 of 1,433 articles

Ministry of Forestry announces death of baby elephant Yuna in Aceh, suspected EEHV virus

The Ministry of Forestry has reported the death of a female Sumatran elephant calf named Yuna at the Saree Elephant Training Centre in Aceh. Initial diagnosis suggests the highly fatal Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus (EEHV) was the cause, following a rapid decline in the animal's health. Veterinary teams are now conducting further tests and screening other young elephants in the area to prevent a potential outbreak.

Government considers awarding state honours to tech figures and ministers

The Indonesian government is finalising a list of individuals to receive state honours and decorations during the 81st Independence Day celebrations. Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi stated that candidates include technology figures with internationally recognised patents and several ministers deemed to have made outstanding contributions. The awards will be presented at the State Palace, with the final list still under review.

Cambodia Deports Nearly 18,000 Foreign Nationals Suspected of Online Fraud

Cambodia has deported almost 18,000 foreign nationals suspected of involvement in online fraud this year as part of an intensified nationwide crackdown on cybercrime. A senior immigration official stated that over 50,000 foreigners have been deported since the start of 2026, though an analyst warned that targeting high-level kingpins and dismantling local protection networks is essential for a lasting solution to human trafficking and corruption.

BKPM Pushes Gold Downstreaming to Support High-Value Industries

Indonesia's Investment Ministry (BKPM) is accelerating the downstream processing of gold to expand its use beyond jewellery and investment into high-tech manufacturing sectors like electronics and semiconductors. The initiative aims to ensure domestic raw material availability for investors and boost the national industrial ecosystem. The push follows President Prabowo Subianto's revelation of significant new gold and mineral deposits discovered in Papua's mountains.

Puan Reveals Prabowo's Letter: Destry Damayanti Nominated as BI Governor, Aida Budiman as Senior Deputy

House Speaker Puan Maharani has confirmed the receipt of a presidential letter from Prabowo Subianto nominating the new leadership of Bank Indonesia. Destry Damayanti has been put forward as the sole candidate for Governor, while Aida S. Budiman is nominated for Senior Deputy Governor. The House of Representatives will process the nominations once the sitting period commences.

South Korea pushes for stronger cooperation with Indonesia based on shared independence heritage

South Korea is advocating for enhanced bilateral cooperation with Indonesia through cultural exchanges rooted in their shared history of independence struggles. The call was made by the South Korean Deputy Ambassador during a photo exhibition in Jakarta highlighting the parallel journeys of both nations toward freedom. The envoy emphasised that this historical connection provides a strong foundation for expanding cultural ties and fulfilling the potential of their Special Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

Maluku Governor: World Bank to Support Financing of Integrated Logistic Hub

Maluku Governor Hendrik Lewerissa announced that the World Bank has committed to supporting the financing of the Maluku Integrated Logistic Hub (MILH) project. The project, envisioned as a comprehensive industrial and logistics zone rather than just a port, is expected to begin construction in 2027. It is projected to be a key economic driver for the region, alongside the Masela Block project, potentially creating 5,000 to 6,000 new jobs.

When East Flores Residents Had to Place Phones on Windowsills to Get a Signal

Residents of East Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, once had to place their mobile phones on windowsills or doors just to obtain a signal, highlighting the region's past connectivity struggles. The local government has since overseen the construction of six base transceiver stations and 262 internet access points across government offices, villages, schools, and health facilities. Nationally, the Telecommunications and Information Accessibility Agency (Bakti) has deployed over 31,000 public service access points, with the SATRIA-1 satellite now providing 150 Gbps capacity to bridge the digital divide in hard-to-reach areas.

Rorotan RDF: WIKA's Sustainable Waste Processing Solution

State-owned construction firm PT Wijaya Karya (WIKA) has completed the Rorotan Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) Plant in North Jakarta, designed to process up to 2,400 tonnes of waste daily. The facility, claimed to be the world's largest RDF plant by capacity, aims to provide a sustainable waste management solution for the capital and reduce reliance on the Bantargebang landfill. One processing line is currently operational, with two more being prepared, as WIKA expresses hope the infrastructure will be optimally utilised.

FMCG Sector Advances on Consumption, Unilever's Performance Shines

Indonesia's economic growth, reaching 5.29% year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026, has been significantly supported by consumer spending, which accounts for over 53% of GDP. This robust consumption has propelled the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, with PT Unilever Indonesia reporting a 7.1% increase in net sales to Rp 16.9 trillion in the first half of 2026. The company's performance highlights strong sales volumes in home and personal care, as well as food and refreshment segments.

Minister: Rice distribution reflects government's attention

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman stated that the distribution of food aid in the form of rice demonstrates the central government's tangible concern for the community. The programme targets 33.4 million beneficiaries across Indonesia, with the minister noting that national rice stocks are currently abundant. Bulog's Director confirmed the agency's readiness to distribute the aid, ensuring it reaches the intended recipients promptly.

Ministry of Cooperatives: Subsidised Goods Distribution Regulations to Be Adjusted for KDKMP

The Ministry of Cooperatives has announced that existing regulations will be adjusted to allow the newly formed Koperasi Desa/Kelurahan Merah Putih (KDKMP) to distribute subsidised goods. Deputy for Cooperative Business Development Panel Barus stated the adjustments are necessary to integrate the new village cooperative entity into the supply chain for commodities like LPG, rice, and fertiliser without violating current laws. A Presidential Regulation is currently being finalised to govern the operations of KDKMP, which are targeted to reach 40,000 units by the end of 2026.

Bulog Deputy Director Conducts Surprise Inspection of Retailers and Warehouses in Palangka Raya

The Deputy Director of Indonesia's state logistics agency Bulog, Marga Taufiq, led a surprise inspection of modern retail outlets and warehouses in Palangka Raya, Central Kalimantan. The inspection confirmed that staple food stocks, particularly rice, cooking oil, and sugar, are sufficient and being sold at regulated prices. Bulog assured the public that its current rice reserves are adequate to support distribution needs for the next ten months.

LRT Fare Slashed to Rp8 for Independence Day

LRT Jabodebek will offer a special fare of just Rp8 on 17 August 2026 to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The promotion, announced by operator KAI, aims to encourage greater use of public transport during the national holiday. Stations and trains will also be decorated in red and white to enhance the celebratory atmosphere.

Still Grieving, Family of Late Sutrimo Absent from Exhumation Process

The family of Sutrimo, a former guard at the residence of an ex-deputy attorney general for special crimes, did not attend his exhumation in Banyumas, Central Java, as they remain deeply distressed by his death. The exhumation was conducted by the Jakarta Metropolitan Police forensic team after the case was elevated to a formal investigation. The family's legal representative attended the procedure on their behalf and stated they trust the authorities to uphold the law.

Pramono: Waste Management Reform Cannot Be Achieved Instantly

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has stated that resolving the capital's waste management issues cannot be done with a 'magic trick', as many parties have long profited from the current system. He announced a three-step enforcement plan against illegal dump sites, including public disclosure, fines, and the closure of companies that fail to comply. Pramono also acknowledged that his crackdown would likely provoke attacks against him but stressed that internal reform and fairness are essential for the public good.

Ministry of Transmigration Ready to Develop Economy in Kepri, Sulbar Transmigration Areas

The Ministry of Transmigration is preparing to transform transmigration areas in the Riau Islands and West Sulawesi into new economic centres. The plan focuses on attracting large-scale investment, such as a shipyard in the Riau Islands, and exploring mineral potential in West Sulawesi. This initiative marks a shift from basic settlement to creating integrated economic ecosystems that generate local employment.

Jakarta Provincial Government Ready to Escort Journalists Covering Cilincing Waste Site

The Jakarta Provincial Government has pledged to provide escorts for journalists seeking to cover the illegal waste disposal site in Cilincing, following reports that reporters were obstructed by local residents. Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo stated that Satpol PP officers would assist media crews, while the Jakarta chapter of the Indonesian Television Journalists Association (IJTI) urged the public to respect journalistic work and warned against impunity for such obstructions.

Regent Reveals Students in Remote Sumedang Areas Still Unreached by Free Nutritious Meal Programme

The Regent of Sumedang, Dony Ahmad Munir, has highlighted that students in the district's most remote and outermost areas, such as Surian, have yet to receive the benefits of the national Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The local government has proposed 28 new service points to the National Nutrition Agency to ensure equitable distribution. The regent stressed that children in isolated regions have the same rights to nutritious food to support their growth and education.

Erick Thanks Prabowo for Kemenpora Transformation

Minister of Youth and Sports Erick Thohir expressed gratitude to President Prabowo Subianto for the trust and freedom given to reform the ministry's bureaucracy. Thohir highlighted that the transformation has yielded positive results, including an improved performance assessment and an unqualified opinion (WTP) on its financial reports. He also noted that the ministry has strengthened its follow-up on audit findings and is enhancing budget transparency through e-procurement and e-budgeting systems.

DSN MUI Encourages Sharia-Compliant Crypto Based on Real-World Assets

Indonesia's National Sharia Council (DSN MUI) is promoting the development of sharia-compliant crypto assets backed by real-world assets such as gold or sukuk. The council is working with the Financial Services Authority (OJK) to establish a regulatory ecosystem, with a formal fatwa on crypto assets expected to be discussed further in October.

BAKTI Deploys Strategy to Provide Telecommunications Access Across All Regions, Including Papua

The Telecommunications and Information Accessibility Agency (BAKTI) is implementing new strategies to extend network coverage to underserved areas, particularly in Papua where around 700 settlements still lack internet access. Efforts include relocating infrastructure projects from insecure locations and applying an exit strategy where private operators can take over service provision. Nearly 98 percent of Indonesian villages have been connected, but security challenges remain a key obstacle in the remaining regions.

Student from Government's 'Sekolah Rakyat' Programme Selected for National Paskibraka, Palace Hails Equal Opportunity

A student from the government's Sekolah Rakyat programme for impoverished families has been selected for the national Paskibraka flag-hoisting squad for the first time. Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi said the achievement proves that economic background is not a barrier to success and that all Indonesian children have equal opportunities to excel. The selection process was based purely on competence and hard work, he added.

Exhumation of Sutrimo Finds No Signs of Violence, Police Await Toxicology Results

A forensic examination of Sutrimo's exhumed body has found no visible signs of physical violence, leaving the cause of his death undetermined. Samples have been sent for toxicology and histopathology testing to check for potential poisoning, with results expected in two to three weeks. Police have stated they will not draw any conclusions until the laboratory analysis is complete.

Finance Minister Purbaya Opens Possibility of Further Delaying Marketplace Tax Beyond October

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has indicated the government may postpone the implementation of income tax on marketplace transactions again if economic conditions worsen. The policy, already delayed until October 2026, aims to protect purchasing power and support small businesses. The government is evaluating the scheme to ensure fairness between large platforms and genuine micro, small and medium enterprises.

Bali Tax Office: No Specific Programme Targeting Landlords Yet

The Bali Regional Office of the Directorate General of Taxes has clarified that there is currently no specific programme targeting owners of rental houses or boarding houses. Tax supervision is conducted based on comprehensive data analysis and risk profiling, considering the taxpayer's overall compliance rather than just property ownership. The office emphasises a persuasive and educational approach, urging taxpayers to fulfil their obligations under the self-assessment system.

Jakarta DPRD: RPPLH Draft Bylaw to Serve as Legal Foundation for Protecting Capital's Environment

The Jakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) has stated that the Draft Regional Regulation on the Environmental Protection and Management Plan (RPPLH) will provide a legal framework for environmental conservation. The regulation aims to set ecological boundaries for development over the next 30 years, addressing critical issues such as air pollution, groundwater exploitation, and climate change risks. It also establishes key performance indicators to be evaluated periodically to ensure the protection of green open spaces and the right to a healthy environment.

Pertamina Offers Discounts on Bright Gas LPG Refills for Independence Day

State-owned energy company Pertamina is offering discounts on its non-subsidised Bright Gas LPG canisters to celebrate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The promotion, running from 15-23 August 2026, provides savings of up to Rp8,100 on 12 kg refills and Rp4,050 on 5.5 kg refills. The 'Semarak Merdeka MyPertamina' programme is available at Bright Store outlets and via Indomaret's online platform.

Government Debt Hits Rp10,293 Trillion, Finance Minister Purbaya Asserts Fiscal Safety

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that Indonesia's government debt reached Rp10,293.69 trillion as of June 2026, representing 41.26 percent of GDP. He emphasised that this level remains well within the legal safe limit of 60 percent of GDP and that the government is committed to maintaining fiscal discipline by capping the budget deficit and improving tax collection efficiency.

Danantara Ready to Become IDX Investor After Demutualisation, Entering via DIM

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has confirmed that the Daya Anagata Nusantara Investment Management Agency (BPI Danantara) has expressed interest in becoming a shareholder following the bourse's demutualisation. The entry will be facilitated through Danantara Investment Management (DIM), pending the issuance of an OJK regulation. The IDX is currently conducting comparative studies with exchanges in Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia, and Malaysia to determine the most suitable ownership model for Indonesia.

Trade Minister: Logistics Costs One of the Factors Driving Up Beef Prices

Trade Minister Budi Santoso stated that rising global oil prices have increased logistics costs, contributing to higher domestic beef prices. He noted that beef import realisation remains low at around 40 percent of the government quota, and importers are being urged to seek more affordable suppliers. The national average price of beef has exceeded the consumer reference price, reaching Rp143,737 per kilogram in early August 2026.

Emergency Technology and Early Warning Systems Showcased in Jakarta

The Emergency Disaster Reduction & Rescue (EDRR) Expo Indonesia 2026 in Jakarta features over 80 companies presenting the latest in disaster mitigation, early warning systems, and emergency response technology. Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno stressed that early warning systems are only effective when paired with rapid community action, urging a shift from mere detection to life-saving response. The event aims to foster collaboration and investment to position Indonesia as a global centre of excellence for disaster technology, rather than just a consumer or a 'disaster supermarket'.

DPD RI Opens 2026 Awards Nominations, Seeks Cultural Preservationists from Jogja

The Regional Representative Council (DPD RI) has opened nominations for its 2026 Awards, inviting the public to propose inspirational figures from Yogyakarta, including those dedicated to cultural preservation. The awards feature four main categories—Education, Health, Food Security, and Arts and Culture—alongside a Special Recognition category, with registration open until 21 August 2026. DPD RI Chairman Sultan B Najamudin emphasised that the initiative aims to honour regional figures whose significant contributions often go unnoticed on the national stage.

Purbaya Responds to Government Debt Surpassing IDR 10,000 Trillion

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has responded to Indonesia's government debt surpassing IDR 10,000 trillion, equivalent to 41 percent of GDP. He expressed confidence that the debt ratio could still decline and emphasised that the government will tighten the budget deficit to keep it below 3 percent. The strategy includes optimising tax collection without introducing new taxes.

Purbaya Confirms No New Tax on Rental Homes

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has clarified that there are no plans to introduce a new tax specifically targeting rental homes or property leasing businesses. He emphasised that the current tax system remains unchanged, with income from rentals already subject to existing income tax regulations. The clarification follows public concern sparked by discussions at a public forum on the 2027 State Budget Bill.

Government Clarifies No New Tax on Rental Properties, Existing Rules Apply

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has dismissed circulating rumours about a new tax specifically targeting boarding house and rental property owners. He clarified that income from property rentals is already subject to existing Income Tax (PPh) regulations, and no new levy is being introduced. The tax authority also confirmed there are no specific plans to target this sector in 2027, aiming to reassure the public.

Indonesia Strengthens Cooperation on Plant Variety Protection IP in Asia Pacific

Indonesia is deepening international cooperation on Plant Variety Protection (PVT) rights through a regional forum in Seoul. The consultation, organised by the Asia and Pacific Seed Alliance, focused on harmonising foreign PVT applications and essential derived varieties. Two countries, Laos and India, have expressed interest in bilateral cooperation with Indonesia on PVT management and testing guidelines.

MPR Annual Session Organisers Restrict Music to National and Regional Songs After Lawmakers' Dancing Incident

Organisers of Indonesia's MPR Annual Session have limited musical selections to national and regional songs following an evaluation of last year's event. The decision comes after footage of several lawmakers dancing during the 2024 session circulated widely on social media, drawing public criticism. The music will be played outside the official agenda to maintain a solemn atmosphere.

KPK Reviews Governance of Village Cooperative Programme in Central Lombok to Prevent Corruption

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is conducting a governance review of the Koperasi Desa Merah Putih (KDMP) programme in Central Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. The initiative aims to map potential corruption risks in planning, funding, and implementation, and to provide recommendations for strengthening accountability. The local government reports that 27 KDMP units have been fully established, with more under development across the regency.

Government Plans to Allocate Part of Danantara's Profits as Fiscal Reserve

The Indonesian government, following an idea from President Prabowo Subianto, intends to channel a portion of the profits from the Danantara Investment Management Agency back into the state budget as a fiscal reserve. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated that the policy, which will be implemented gradually this year, aims to enhance revenue efficiency and could also be used to reduce the government's debt position.

Forensic Examination of Sutrimo's Remains to Take 2-3 Weeks

A forensic team has stated that laboratory tests on samples taken from the exhumed body of Sutrimo will require two to three weeks to complete. The extensive sampling was necessary due to the advanced state of decomposition, with the body having been buried since late July. The examination aims to determine the cause of death as part of a police investigation, while a former official has denied reports regarding the deceased's employment status.

Barantin Tightens Quarantine Supervision on Passenger Goods at Palu Airport

The Indonesian Quarantine Agency (Barantin) is intensifying supervision of passenger luggage at Palu's Mutiara SIS Al-Jufri Airport following the launch of direct international flights to Guangzhou, China. The agency aims to balance swift service with rigorous inspections to prevent the entry of pests and diseases that could threaten Central Sulawesi's biological resources. The Palu-Guangzhou route is currently served twice weekly, with plans to increase to daily flights by October 2026.

Pertamina NRE and METI Accelerate Regional Energy Transition

Pertamina New & Renewable Energy and the Indonesian Renewable Energy Society (METI) are strengthening collaboration to accelerate the energy transition at the regional level. North Sulawesi is highlighted as a strategic area, already achieving a 32 per cent renewable energy mix, largely from geothermal sources. The partnership aims to boost local ecosystems, attract investment, and develop human resources in the renewable energy sector.

Central Java Government Scholarship Enables Santri to Pursue Dentistry

The Central Java Provincial Government's scholarship programme is enabling students from Islamic boarding schools, known as santri, to access higher education in fields like dentistry and computer science. Aqila Keisha Haulia, a scholarship recipient, is now studying dentistry at Diponegoro University, fulfilling her dream of becoming a medical professional while upholding her religious values. The initiative, part of the 'Pesantren Obah' programme, provided grants to 73 students in 2026 for studies both domestically and abroad, including at institutions in China and Egypt.

Ten Injured as Primary School Wall Collapses During Independence Day Event

A school wall in Sleman, Yogyakarta, collapsed onto residents who were resting after a community walk and exercise session to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, injuring ten people. The local government has pledged to cover medical expenses and rebuild the wall to safer standards.

Jakarta Governor Demands Legal Action Over Alleged Blasphemy at Music Festival

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has instructed officials to pursue legal action against those responsible for an alleged act of blasphemy at 'The Sound Project' music festival. The incident involved a promotion that reportedly trivialised Quranic verses, which the governor deemed a serious disturbance to public order. Local councillors have also called for stricter controls on alcohol licensing and better oversight of promotional activities at large-scale events.

Prosecutors File Verzet After Appeal Rejected in NTB Council Members' Graft Case

The West Nusa Tenggara High Prosecutor's Office is mounting a legal challenge after the Mataram District Court rejected its appeal against the acquittal of three provincial councillors in a gratuity case. Prosecutors are filing a 'verzet' to contest the rejection of their appeal, insisting the defendants are guilty of receiving illicit 'ghost money'. The case is linked to a Rp 76 billion governor's directive programme, with prosecutors aiming to implicate 15 other council members who allegedly received funds.

173 Passengers Evacuated from Burning Ferry KMP Putri Yasmin, One Fatality Confirmed

A joint search and rescue operation evacuated 173 people from the burning KMP Putri Yasmin ferry in the Lombok Strait early Wednesday, with one fatality reported. Rescue teams from Mataram and Denpasar, supported by naval and port authorities, continue to sweep the area for any remaining victims. The vessel caught fire around 4.15 a.m. local time in the Sekotong waters of West Lombok.

House Member Supports Government on Pertalite Restrictions: The Wealthy Must Use Non-Subsidised Fuel

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has endorsed the government's plan to restrict subsidised Pertalite fuel sales to wealthy households. The policy aims to ensure energy subsidies are better targeted towards lower-income groups, workers, and small businesses. The legislator stressed the need for accurate integrated data and a phased implementation to prevent eligible citizens from losing access.

Minister Inaugurates KUD Sejahtera Palm Oil Mill in Musi Banyuasin

Cooperatives Minister Ferry Juliantono inaugurated a new palm oil mill owned by KUD Sejahtera in South Sumatra, marking a significant step in cooperative-led downstream processing. The government aims to replicate this model to strengthen the bargaining power of smallholder farmers and integrate cooperatives into the national palm oil supply chain.