Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 12 August 2026

Showing 901-950 of 1,433 articles

Taiwan Condemns China-Indonesia Military Drill, Calling It Political Manipulation

Taiwan has strongly condemned a planned joint navigation exercise between the Chinese and Indonesian navies in waters east of the island, accusing Beijing of political manipulation. The drill, scheduled for mid-August, aims to improve operational capabilities but Taipei argues it falsely implies Chinese jurisdiction over the area. The exercise follows heightened tensions after China began coastguard patrols off Taiwan's east coast in June.

Dozens of Passengers from KMP Putri Yasmin Evacuated to Lembar, Including Australian Nationals

Dozens of passengers from the fire-stricken KMP Putri Yasmin ferry have been evacuated to Lembar Port in West Lombok. The evacuees include two Australian nationals, one male and one female. Evacuation efforts are ongoing, with some passengers receiving medical treatment at the port and others transferred to hospital.

Ahead of Independence Day, Papuan Traditional Leaders Urge Residents to Nurture Unity

Traditional leaders across Papua have called on communities to strengthen unity and maintain security ahead of the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence. They emphasised that the moment should be used to foster brotherhood and support development in the region. The leaders also urged the public to be critical of information on social media and to back government welfare programmes.

Don't Celebrate Just Yet! Indonesia's Footwear Industry Remains Wary Despite 11% Q2 Rebound

Indonesia's footwear industry is still under severe pressure from cheap imports, both legal and illegal, despite recording 11.3 per cent growth in the second quarter of 2026. The Indonesian Footwear Association (Aprisindo) warns that without stronger government intervention to control imports and streamline regulations, the recovery is unsustainable. The sector is also grappling with declining consumer purchasing power and geopolitical uncertainty.

TNBTS: 2,056 Tourists Request Refunds After Bromo Closure

The Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park (TNBTS) reported that 2,056 tourists have requested ticket refunds following the total closure of Mount Bromo due to spreading forest and land fires. The closure, effective since 8 August, was implemented to facilitate firefighting efforts and ensure visitor safety.

Japanese brands dominate Indonesian car sales in July 2026, but Chinese rivals gain ground

Japanese manufacturers continued to lead Indonesia's car market in July 2026, with Toyota, Daihatsu, and Mitsubishi taking the top three spots. However, Chinese brand BYD surged into fifth place, overtaking Honda, signalling a significant shift in the competitive landscape. The top ten brands recorded combined retail sales of 62,587 units, with Toyota alone accounting for 21,008 units.

Man in Pandeglang Arrested for Raping Stepdaughter, Caught in the Act by Wife

A 29-year-old man in Pandeglang has been arrested for the alleged rape of his 15-year-old stepdaughter. The crime was discovered when the perpetrator's wife returned home and caught him in the act. The suspect reportedly forced the victim to comply by claiming he deserved recompense for having cared for her over the past four years.

Indonesia targets GCC trade pact by November 2026: Minister

Indonesia aims to conclude a free trade agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council by November 2026 to boost exports to Gulf markets. Trade Minister Santoso urged automotive manufacturers to leverage existing trade pacts and highlighted the importance of market expansion for global competitiveness. He also encouraged exporters to use the ministry's electronic certificate of origin system to facilitate trade with partner countries.

Forensic Team Involves Toxicology, DNA, and Histopathology Experts in Sutrimo Exhumation

A joint forensic team has exhumed the body of Sutrimo, a former household head for an ex-official, to determine the cause of his death. The investigation involves experts in toxicology, DNA, and histopathology, with samples sent to laboratories at the University of Indonesia and Airlangga University. Authorities have urged the public to await the results before speculating on the case, which has been upgraded to a criminal investigation.

Bontang's 2026 Economic Census Verification Reaches 78.51 Percent, Second Highest in East Kalimantan

The 2026 Economic Census in Bontang has achieved a 78.51 percent verification rate, placing it second highest in East Kalimantan province. Officials emphasised the census's strategic importance for updating economic data, including digital and green economy sectors, to guide the city's development as a partner to Indonesia's new capital, Nusantara. Authorities are working to complete the remaining data collection and ensure accuracy to support evidence-based policymaking.

KMP Putri Yasmin Catches Fire in Lombok Strait, 106 Passengers Evacuated

A ferry, KMP Putri Yasmin, caught fire in the Lombok Strait early Wednesday morning while en route from Bali to Lombok. All 106 passengers were successfully evacuated to safety by a coordinated rescue effort involving the national search and rescue agency, the Indonesian Navy, and a nearby commercial ferry. The cause of the fire is not yet known as authorities remain focused on the evacuation operation.

Police: Fraudster Who Targeted Elderly Woman in South Tangerang Was a KPK Courier

Police have revealed that a man who defrauded a 70-year-old woman by posing as a former KPK detainee was actually a courier for the anti-graft agency. The suspect, along with an accomplice, tricked the victim into handing over money and a car by promising to help release fictitious seized assets. Both suspects have been arrested and face multiple criminal charges.

Herry Wirawan, Rapist of 13 Students, Sentenced to Death; Prosecutor’s Office Reveals Execution Timeline

The Bandung District Prosecutor's Office has stated it is awaiting potential legal appeals before carrying out the death sentence against Herry Wirawan. Wirawan was initially sentenced to life imprisonment for raping 13 female students, but the sentence was upgraded to capital punishment following a successful appeal by prosecutors. His legal counsel indicated they have yet to receive the official cassation ruling and will consult their client regarding a possible clemency plea.

IDX Rises as Retail Sales Post First Monthly Gain in Three Months

The Jakarta Composite Index edged higher on Wednesday, buoyed by data showing Indonesia's retail sales recorded their first monthly increase in three months. The 0.7 percent month-on-month rise in June, alongside a narrowing annual contraction, signals an initial impact from government stimulus measures aimed at bolstering consumer purchasing power. Broader market sentiment remained cautious, however, ahead of key US inflation data.

Prabowo to Award State Honours One Week After Independence Day Ceremony

President Prabowo will confer state honours a week after the 81st Independence Day ceremony, according to the State Secretary. The list of recipients, which includes individuals recognised for technological innovation and international patents, is being finalised.

Italian Deputy PM Proposes Additional Tax on Major Banks for Security

Italy's Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini has proposed a 5 percent additional tax on the profits of the country's ten largest banks. The levy, intended to last for three years, would fund a significant increase in security operations, including doubling the number of troops deployed on the streets. Salvini expressed confidence that the governing coalition would support the measure.

Bali search team deploys helicopter to burning ferry

A joint search and rescue operation involving Bali and Mataram Basarnas offices is underway after a fire broke out on the KMP Putri Yasmin ferry in the Lombok Strait. A helicopter has been deployed for aerial surveillance while vessels, including the KN SAR Arjuna, are handling the evacuation of passengers and crew. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about ferry safety in Indonesia, with the government pledging a review of safety protocols.

US Golden Dome Missile Defence System Moves to Space-Based Testing

The United States has progressed to the next phase of testing for its Golden Dome missile defence shield, moving from data transmission trials to live space-based tests. The multi-layered system, announced by President Donald Trump in May 2025, integrates ground, sea, and space assets to protect the US from missile threats. The project is estimated to cost nearly $175 billion, with large-scale testing scheduled for late 2028.

Family of Febrie Adriansyah Urges Public Not to Link Sutrimo's Death to Attorney General's Office Case

The family of Febrie Adriansyah, through their legal counsel, has requested that the death of Sutrimo not be prematurely linked to the ongoing legal proceedings at the Attorney General's Office. They clarified that Sutrimo was not the head of household but a caretaker of an empty property, and that he had a long history of diabetes. The family is respecting the police investigation and exhumation process to determine the actual cause of death.

Beef Prices Remain Stubbornly High, Trade Minister Orders Importers to Act

Indonesian Trade Minister Budi Santoso has instructed beef importers to expedite the realisation of their import quotas, which currently stand at only around 40 per cent. The minister cited rising global logistics costs and low import realisation as key factors keeping domestic beef prices above the national average of Rp142,000 per kilogram. The government is also encouraging importers to diversify supply sources beyond Australia to secure more competitive prices and stabilise the domestic market.

Strait of Hormuz to Remain Closed Unless US Meets Iran's Conditions

Iran's newly appointed security chief has warned the Strait of Hormuz will stay shut until the United States changes its behaviour and accepts Tehran's terms to end the war. Mohsen Rezaei said any transit deal with Oman would be separate from the closure, signalling a prolonged standoff. The US has yet to respond, though President Trump has demanded Iran pay compensation for decades of damage.

Bogor Customs Destroys 10.2 Million Illegal Cigarettes and Textiles Worth Rp 15 Billion

The Bogor Customs and Excise Office has destroyed 10.2 million illegal cigarettes and 642 kilogrammes of textiles, with a total estimated value of over Rp 15 billion. The illicit goods were seized during raids at 161 locations, primarily retail shops and expedition services, across six municipalities and regencies in West Java. Officials noted the trade in machine-made illegal cigarettes undermines legitimate small-scale and home-industry cigarette producers, while the state suffered a potential excise revenue loss of Rp 7.6 billion.

Sutrimo Exhumation: Forensic Team Collects Samples for Cause of Death Investigation

A forensic team has exhumed the body of Sutrimo in Banyumas, Central Java, to collect samples for laboratory analysis. The examination aims to determine whether the death, which occurred in July, was natural or unnatural. The procedure is part of a police investigation involving multiple forensic specialists.

At 81st Independence Day, Sekolah Rakyat Student Recites Poem: 'We Too Want to Be Free'

A student from Sekolah Rakyat 4 Jakarta moved attendees at the Ministry of Social Affairs' 81st Independence Day ceremony by reciting a poem titled 'We Too Want to Be Free'. Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf stated the event aimed to foster synergy and collaboration to make strategic programmes more effective. He also highlighted that President Prabowo Subianto's strategy of consolidating data has led to more targeted social assistance and a reduction in poverty.

Ministry of Defence and LVRI Commemorate National Veterans Day, Ignite Fighting Spirit

The Indonesian Ministry of Defence and the Veterans Legion of Indonesia (LVRI) jointly commemorated National Veterans Day at Balai Sudirman, Jakarta. The event, themed 'Veterans Uphold the Spirit of Struggle to Inspire an Advanced Indonesia', was attended by Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto, and numerous veterans. The ceremony aimed to honour veterans' contributions and rekindle the national fighting spirit.

Minister Erick Thohir Claims Kemenpora Has 'Moved Up a Class' in Governance

Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir announced that his ministry has significantly improved its bureaucratic governance, citing an 81 percent follow-up rate on audit findings from the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK). The ministry has also adopted Key Performance Indicator (KPI)-based budgeting for national training programmes to ensure targeted and transparent use of funds for athletes.

Toxicologist Among Experts Involved in Sutrimo's Post-Mortem Examination

A joint forensic team, including a toxicologist, has conducted a comprehensive examination of Sutrimo's remains. The team comprises specialists in medicolegal forensics, DNA, histopathology, and toxicology from institutions such as the University of Indonesia and Airlangga University. Officials stated that laboratory results are required before determining whether the cause of death was natural or unnatural.

From Laggard to Leader: How China Came to Dominate Global Manufacturing

China's share of global manufacturing value added has tripled over the past two decades, reaching 27% in 2025 and eclipsing traditional powerhouses like the United States and the European Union. The shift, driven by economic liberalisation and WTO accession, has seen the combined share of the US, EU, and Japan fall from 59% to 39%. India has also seen a modest increase, as policymakers seek to attract more foreign manufacturing investment.

Indonesia speeds up efforts to contain Bromo wildfires

The Indonesian government has intensified efforts to extinguish wildfires in the Mount Bromo area, with active hotspots reduced from 34 to just two. Coordinating Minister Pratikno, acting on direct orders from President Prabowo Subianto, is overseeing ground operations and preparing weather modification strategies with the BNPB. Regional leaders have been urged to act swiftly to prevent further hydrometeorological disasters and support ecosystem recovery.

Seventy four military aircraft to join RI's Independence Day parade

Indonesia is set to mark its 81st Independence Day with a large-scale aerial parade involving 74 military and security aircraft from the Air Force, Army, Navy, police, and search-and-rescue agency. The display will feature a range of assets including Rafale and Sukhoi fighter jets, transport aircraft, and aerobatic teams such as the Jupiter Aerobatic Team, showcasing the nation's defence capabilities. Pilots are currently undergoing manoeuvre training ahead of the 17 August event over Jakarta.

Pavilion Named After Sodik Mudjahid Inaugurated at Pusdai West Java Complex

The West Java Islamic Propagation Centre (Pusdai) has inaugurated the Sodik Mudjahid Pavilion to honour the institution's founders. The ceremony also saw the dedication of a pavilion for the late scholar Miftah Faridl, recognising their combined efforts in establishing Pusdai as a professional and impactful community institution. Leaders emphasised the importance of continuing their legacy of service and Islamic outreach for future generations.

Buky Wibawa Urges West Java PWI to Be More Adaptive in the Digital Era

West Java DPRD Chairman Buky Wibawa has called on the Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) to strengthen professionalism and solidarity amidst a rapidly changing media landscape. He stressed the need for innovation to keep the press relevant and highlighted the media's role in providing constructive criticism to aid regional development. Wibawa also reminded journalists to maintain accuracy to prevent public confusion.

Buton Police Officer Named Suspect in Sexual Assault Case

A police officer in Buton, Southeast Sulawesi, has been detained and named a suspect in a sexual assault case involving a female restaurant owner. The officer, identified as Aipda SO, allegedly assaulted the victim twice in July. Authorities have stated that both criminal and internal ethical proceedings are underway, reaffirming their commitment to professional and transparent law enforcement.

Three Hard Drug Dealers Arrested in Cirebon, Thousands of Tramadol and Trihexyphenidyl Pills Seized

Police in Cirebon have arrested three individuals involved in the illegal distribution of hard drugs, seizing thousands of Tramadol and Trihexyphenidyl pills. The operation, which began with the arrest of a suspect in Arjawinangun, led officers to uncover a larger supply network and a storage facility containing over 6,900 pills. Authorities have stated their commitment to dismantling the entire supply chain to protect the community, particularly the youth.

Anwar Ibrahim Hospitalised: Here's His Latest Condition

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is expected to be discharged from hospital on Wednesday following elective laparoscopic surgery for a para-umbilical hernia. His hospitalisation, the first during his tenure, comes amid rising political tensions as the Democratic Action Party (DAP), a key coalition member, prepares a vote on whether its leaders should remain in the cabinet. The political uncertainty follows a decline in public support after a series of local election defeats.

Iftitah Sulaiman Urges Universities to Bring Innovation to Transmigration Areas

Minister of Transmigration M. Iftitah Sulaiman Suryanagara has called on higher education institutions to transform transmigration areas into 'living laboratories' for research and innovation. He argued that deploying science and technology is essential to developing local potential, creating new income sources, and generating employment. The initiative aims to ensure that economic growth and investment in these regions directly benefit local communities through skills development and value-added processing of natural resources.

Sahroni to Oversee Case of Ad-Dhuha Memorisation Challenge with Alcohol Prize: 'This is Blasphemy'

Deputy Chairman of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III, Ahmad Sahroni, has condemned a music festival's challenge involving memorising a Quranic verse for an alcoholic prize as religious blasphemy. He has pledged to oversee the police investigation and ensure those responsible face legal consequences. The incident occurred at The Sound Project in Ancol, North Jakarta, and has sparked public outrage.

KAI Jakarta prepares 234,000 train seats for 81st Indonesian Independence Day holiday

PT Kereta Api Indonesia's Jakarta operational area has readied 234,815 long-distance train seats for the 13–18 August 2026 holiday period marking the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence. As of Wednesday, 54 per cent of tickets had been booked, with the highest departure volume expected on 14 August. The state-owned operator has also added seven extra train services and urged passengers to plan their journeys carefully.

Social Affairs Ministry Studies BRAC Graduation Strategy to Boost Beneficiary Self-Reliance

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs is evaluating Bangladesh-based BRAC's poverty graduation approach to help social aid recipients achieve sustainable independence. The strategy involves sequenced interventions, intensive mentoring, and clear graduation criteria to prevent families from falling back into poverty. The government aims to shift the focus of social assistance from mere distribution to long-term empowerment.

Free Twibbon Frames to Celebrate the 65th Indonesian Scout Day in 2026

The 65th Indonesian Scout Day will be commemorated on 14 August 2026, with the public encouraged to share free, customisable twibbon frames on social media. This year's theme focuses on strengthening the organisation's role in supporting national food self-sufficiency towards the 'Golden Indonesia 2045' vision. The Scout movement, officially established in 1961, continues to function as a key non-formal educational body for youth development across the archipelago.

Ministry of SMEs Designs Digital Marketing Scheme to Boost Product Sales and Branding

Indonesia's Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises is developing a digital marketing scheme to help millions of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) increase sales and improve their branding. The programme includes onboarding businesses onto e-commerce platforms, assisting with legal permits such as NIB and halal certification, and facilitating business matching. The ministry is also collaborating with the private sector and local governments to ensure the programme reaches remote areas across the archipelago.

Two Bromo wildfire hotspots expected out by Friday: BNPB

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) aims to extinguish the two remaining hotspots from the Bromo wildfire by Friday, with three water-bombing aircraft deployed. Firefighters face challenges including steep terrain, limited water sources, and unfavourable weather, though rain is forecast from 14 to 16 August. The blaze has so far affected 889 hectares across four districts.

52,541 Civil Servants Prepare to Fill Vacant Senior Government Positions

Indonesia's National Civil Service Agency (BKN) has mapped 52,541 civil servants from 120 agencies through its ProASN profiling programme, readying them to fill vacant managerial posts. The initiative uses a non-assessment centre method to evaluate cognitive aspects, with results integrated into the national civil service information system. Officials stress that the profiling serves as an initial step and cannot be the sole basis for appointments to strategic roles, which require more comprehensive assessments.

Bluesky Faces Decline in Active Users Amid Expansion Focus

Decentralised social network Bluesky is experiencing a significant drop in monthly active users, with numbers falling by over half from their peak in late 2024. Despite the decline, the company is prioritising the development of its underlying AT Protocol to support a broader ecosystem of applications and services. New initiatives include AI research tools and private data support, which aim to attract users interested in private communities.

IHSG Jumps 1% to Reclaim 6,330 Level Amid Global Cues

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) surged 1% to 6,330.56 by midday Wednesday, recovering from sharp losses as investors awaited crucial US inflation data and the MSCI August 2026 Index Review. The US consumer price index release is expected to influence the Federal Reserve's rate path, while the MSCI review remains critical for Indonesian equities due to a freeze on new inclusions over transparency concerns. Market sentiment is cautious as MSCI maintains restrictions on Indonesian stocks, keeping the risk of foreign outflows elevated ahead of a potential reclassification consultation in November.

Helicopter and Rafale Jet Displays Mark Rehearsal for Independence Day Ceremony at Palace

A full dress rehearsal for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day ceremony took place at the Merdeka Palace, featuring aerial displays by helicopters and Rafale fighter jets. The Minister of State Secretary confirmed that 81 aircraft will participate in the official event, expressing appreciation for the pilots' skill and the risks they undertake. Preparations also included drills by the national flag-hoisting team and the installation of decorations around the palace grounds.

Army Chief Confirms TNI Commander to Inaugurate Five New Regional Military Commands

Army Chief of Staff General Maruli Simanjuntak has confirmed the Indonesian Army will be reinforced with five new Regional Military Commands (Kodam) in 2026. The exact date of the inauguration is pending confirmation from TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto. The expansion signals a significant restructuring of the army's territorial organisation.

Village Development Cannot Be Done Piecemeal

Integrated development is essential for Indonesian villages, as isolated programmes addressing single issues like waste management or economic empowerment often fail. A case study of Pondok Kelor village in Tangerang illustrates how connecting environmental services, institutional strengthening, and local economic potential—such as reviving the moringa plant—can create a more sustainable and effective approach.

School Fees Rise, but Shoe Sales Hold Steady; 2025 Stock Still in Play

Indonesia's footwear industry reports a slight increase in orders for the new school year despite rising education costs. However, manufacturers are not boosting production as current demand is being met by leftover stock from 2025, while they grapple with rising raw material costs linked to global conflicts.

Febrie Adriansyah's Legal Team Urges Public to Await Official Police Findings on Sutrimo's Death

The legal team for former senior prosecutor Febrie Adriansyah has called on the public to refrain from speculation regarding the death of Sutrimo, whose body was found in South Jakarta. They clarified that Sutrimo was a caretaker of a vacant property, not a household manager, and noted he had a long history of diabetes. The lawyers urged respect for the ongoing police investigation and asked that the death not be linked to Adriansyah's legal proceedings.