Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 12 August 2026

Showing 51-100 of 1,433 articles

Forestry Minister: Elephant SRAK Must Become Real Action, Not Just a Document

Minister of Forestry Raja Juli Antoni has launched the Sumatran Elephant Conservation Strategy and Action Plan (SRAK), urging that it be implemented as concrete action rather than remaining a theoretical document. The plan addresses the declining population, which has seen habitat pockets halve to 21, and includes initiatives such as a coexistence project in Way Kambas and a Presidential Instruction for elephant protection. The minister emphasised that the success of the conservation strategy requires collaboration between the government, communities, NGOs, and the private sector.

Purwakarta Police Water Dry Land to Prevent Forest and Land Fires

The Purwakarta Police have taken proactive measures to mitigate the risk of forest and land fires during the dry season by watering tens of hectares of parched land in Babakancikao. The initiative aims to prevent fires as vegetation dries out, with officers also educating the public on fire prevention. Authorities have urged residents to avoid burning waste and to report any signs of fire immediately.

Ministry, Unesa partner to develop soybean seeds to curb imports

Indonesia's Agriculture Ministry has partnered with Surabaya State University (Unesa) to establish a high-quality soybean seed production base on 56 hectares of university land in East Java. The government will provide free seeds and machinery, then purchase the resulting harvest for free redistribution to farmers, aiming for yields of up to five metric tons per hectare. The initiative is part of a broader national strategy to sustainably boost domestic soybean production and reduce reliance on imports, in line with President Prabowo's directives.

Indonesia Immigration explains Israeli entry through third countries

Indonesia's Immigration Director General has clarified that Israeli citizens are entering the country using passports from third nations such as Portugal, Germany, and Greece, bypassing the stringent multi-agency verification required for direct Israeli visa applications. The official noted that dual citizenship, common in many European countries, allows these individuals to utilise alternative travel documents, while Indonesia's system verifies nationality rather than place of birth. The statement follows social media uproar over videos showing Israeli tourists in Bali, which drew sharp criticism from pro-Palestinian activists.

AGO Investigates Toba Pulp for Transfer Pricing, State Losses Estimated at Rp 2 Trillion

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has launched an investigation into PT Toba Pulp Lestari (TPL) for alleged transfer pricing corruption involving the manipulation of export commodity HS Codes. Two state officials from the tax authority have been named as suspects for allegedly assisting the company in underreporting tax values. Preliminary estimates indicate the scheme has caused state losses of approximately Rp 2 trillion.

AGO Uncovers Alleged Tax Manipulation at PT TPL, Two Tax Officials Named Suspects

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has named two civil servants from the Directorate General of Taxes as suspects in an alleged tax manipulation case involving PT Toba Pulp Lestari (TPL). The suspects, identified as BP and SR, are accused of failing to properly supervise the audit of the company, which allegedly misreported export sales to an affiliate. The state's financial loss is provisionally estimated at Rp2 trillion.

AGO Names Two Tax Officials Suspects in PT TPL Pulp Export Manipulation Case

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has named two Finance Ministry tax auditors as suspects for allegedly assisting PT TPL in manipulating export values of pulp. The company is accused of underinvoicing by misdeclaring high-value dissolving pulp as lower-grade paper pulp to affiliates, causing an estimated state loss of Rp2 trillion. The suspects, identified as BP and SR, have been detained for 20 days as investigations continue.

Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Investigates PT TAS Over Alleged Umrah Violations

Indonesia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is investigating travel operator PT TAS for allegedly failing to send 120 pilgrims to Saudi Arabia and stranding 38 others during the July-August 2026 season. The ministry has examined the company's director and is preparing administrative sanctions, including potential licence revocation. Officials have warned of strict enforcement against any operator that neglects pilgrims.

IDX Prepares Private Placement and IPO for Strategic Investors Amid Demutualisation

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) is readying private placement and initial public offering (IPO) mechanisms to facilitate the entry of strategic investors as part of its demutualisation process. IDX President Director Jeffrey Hendrik stated that the exchange will maintain its independence while transforming into a profit-oriented entity, pending the issuance of a demutualisation regulation by the Financial Services Authority (OJK). The OJK is concurrently reviewing ownership limitation rules, with potential exceptions for strategic partners subject to strict assessment.

Consumer Trust Key to Property Agent Business Success

Ray White Indonesia has secured the Top Brand Award 2026 for the property agent category, marking 15 consecutive years of recognition. The award, based on a survey of over 12,000 consumers across 15 Indonesian cities, highlights the critical role of consumer trust and brand perception in the property sector. The company also received several other accolades, including the Top Franchise Platinum Award 2026, underscoring its commitment to innovation and network expansion.

KPK Plans to Summon Forestry Minister's Aide and Kuansing Police Chief

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is considering summoning the Forestry Minister's aide and the Kuantan Singingi Police Chief as witnesses in a bribery case involving a non-active regent. The investigation seeks to clarify a discrepancy in the amount of money returned by Minister Raja Juli Antoni, who reported receiving an envelope containing SGD 14,000. The KPK aims to determine why only SGD 12,000 was returned and who facilitated the process.

National Nutrition Agency opens dedicated channel for teachers to report on free meal programme

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has established a dedicated email channel for teachers to report issues, complaints, and feedback regarding the Free Nutritious Meal Programme (MBG). The initiative aims to strengthen public oversight and improve service quality by leveraging teachers' direct involvement in the programme's implementation at schools. BGN also launched a nutrition literacy and food safety programme targeting an initial 658,300 teachers in Jakarta, West Java, and Banten, with plans to expand nationwide.

Bogor Subdistrict Head Denies Forcing Barber to Apologise Over Flag Remarks

The head of Rancabungur Subdistrict in Bogor Regency has denied allegations that officials coerced a barber into recording a public apology after he was confronted over not displaying the Indonesian flag. Dita Aprilia claimed the barber visited the subdistrict office voluntarily to clarify the situation and that the apology video was made without her knowledge. The incident began when the barber reportedly responded to a request to hoist the flag by questioning whether Indonesia had truly achieved independence.

Expert Says Strong Indications of Money Laundering in Febrie Adriansyah Case

A legal expert has stated there are strong indications of money laundering in the case involving former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah. The assessment follows the discovery of cash and gold bars at his residence, which are deemed disproportionate to his official income. The expert also linked the case to broader issues of corruption within law enforcement and the fragility of state institutions.

Legal Team Claims Indictment in Hajj Quota Case Fails to Detail Fee Requests by Gus Alex and Yaqut

Lawyers for defendants in the Indonesian hajj quota corruption case have criticised the KPK's indictment as unclear and assumption-based. They argue the document does not explain how former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and his ex-aide allegedly orchestrated or demanded fees for expedited hajj departures. The defence also disputes the mention of specific dollar amounts, claiming there is no material evidence of funds flowing to Yaqut in 2024.

Polda Metro Examines 8 Witnesses in Sutrimo Death Case

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police have questioned eight witnesses as part of the investigation into the death of Sutrimo. Authorities are continuing to summon additional witnesses based on information gathered so far. The results of the exhumation and autopsy will serve as key evidence in determining the legal facts of the case.

KPK Opens Possibility of Examining Forestry Minister's Aide and Kuansing Police Chief

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is considering summoning the Forestry Minister's aide and the Kuantan Singingi Police Chief as witnesses in a bribery case involving a non-active regent. Investigators are probing a discrepancy in the amount of money returned by Minister Raja Juli Antoni, who received and later rejected an envelope containing Singapore dollars. The case also involves alleged gratuities related to the release of limited production forest areas.

Trade Ministry Encourages Indonesian Food and Beverage Products to Penetrate Global Markets

Indonesia's Vice Minister of Trade, Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri, has emphasised the need to boost the competitiveness of the nation's food and beverage sector to capture a larger share of the global market. Speaking at a trade promotion forum, she highlighted the sector's vast potential, noting the global market value reached USD 512 billion in 2025, while Indonesia's processed food exports stood at USD 6.25 billion. The government is committed to strengthening the export ecosystem by assisting businesses with international quality standards, certification, and market access.

LRT Jabodebek Offers Rp8 Fare for Independence Day Celebration

LRT Jabodebek will offer a special fare of Rp8 on 17 August 2026 to commemorate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The promotion aims to broaden public access to public transport during the national celebration. Stations and trains will also be decorated in red and white to enhance the festive atmosphere.

EDRR Expo aims to make Indonesia hub for disaster-management tech

Coordinating Minister Pratikno stated the Emergency Disaster Reduction and Rescue Expo 2026 is intended to position Indonesia as a global centre of excellence for disaster-management technology, moving beyond being a mere market for foreign products. The government is seeking international cooperation in technology transfer and investment to bolster domestic industry and ensure early warnings translate into life-saving early action. The exhibition, featuring over 80 companies, underscores Indonesia's drive for technological self-reliance in the face of nearly 5,000 annual disasters.

Erick Thohir Thanks Prabowo for Trust in Transforming Kemenpora

Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir expressed gratitude to President Prabowo Subianto for the trust placed in him to lead bureaucratic transformation at the ministry. He highlighted that the reforms have resulted in an 83% performance score and another unqualified audit opinion. These achievements are seen as key indicators of improved governance and transparency within the institution.

BNPB: Ground and Air Task Forces on Full Alert to Handle TNBTS Forest Fires

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has deployed integrated ground and air task forces to combat forest and land fires in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park (TNBTS). Operations include water bombing sorties and intensified patrols across four affected districts, while all tourist access to the park has been closed indefinitely. The government is prioritising public safety, rapid response, and preventing further damage to the ecosystem and local tourism economy.

Unveiling the Bright Future of Digital Banks in Indonesia

Digital banking adoption in Indonesia is surging, with Bank Indonesia reporting a 36.88% year-on-year increase in digital payment transactions in the first half of 2026. The industry is entering a new phase driven by universal banking, open finance, and artificial intelligence, positioning digital banks as strategic partners for innovation and financial inclusion. CNBC Indonesia is hosting a Digital Banking Forum to discuss the future ecosystem with key regulators and industry leaders.

US Envoy Suddenly Praises Putin, Here's Why

US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff publicly thanked Russian President Vladimir Putin for granting a humanitarian pardon to American citizen Robert Gilman. Gilman was serving a prison sentence in Russia for assaulting law enforcement officers. The release follows direct negotiations and was also acknowledged by President Donald Trump.

Denpasar's 2026 Budget Revised to Rp 3.244 Trillion, Local Revenue Target Raised by Rp 170 Billion

The Denpasar City Council has approved a revised 2026 budget of Rp 3.244 trillion, marking a 5.26 percent increase from the initial allocation. The city's own-source revenue target has been raised by Rp 170.25 billion to Rp 2.220 trillion, with officials pledging to optimise previously untapped income streams. A key focus will be boosting revenue from billboard taxes, which have begun to recover after a moratorium, alongside increased capital expenditure for infrastructure improvements.

Police conduct in-depth examination of two suspected blasphemy offenders

Police in North Jakarta are intensively questioning two individuals suspected of blasphemy during a music festival in Ancol. The suspects, a woman and a man, were identified from a video circulated on social media. They face charges under the new Criminal Code related to religious hostility and incitement.

1,000 Persons with Disabilities Sign Proclamation, Break MURI Record

A thousand persons with disabilities gathered at Yogyakarta's Zero Kilometre Point to sign the Indonesian Proclamation of Independence, setting a new record with the Indonesian World Records Museum (MURI). The event aimed to promote equality and demonstrate that the spirit of independence belongs to all citizens. The Vice Governor of Yogyakarta emphasised that the initiative highlighted inclusive participation in national life beyond merely breaking a record.

BGN Chief Firm: If Free Nutritious Meal Is Unfit, Don't Pick the Sides, Return Everything

The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sudaryono, has issued strict instructions that any Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) found to be unfit for consumption must be returned in its entirety, not partially consumed. He stressed that food safety is a primary concern, requiring inspection by teachers before distribution to students. Any package with a single spoiled component, such as a foul-smelling vegetable dish, must be sent back to the local service unit for investigation.

Fraudulent Tour Agent in Labuan Bajo Embezzles Rp244 Million, Stranding Tourists

A 33-year-old unlicensed tour agent in Labuan Bajo has been arrested for allegedly embezzling Rp244.2 million from a Canadian tour operator. The fraud resulted in 22 Chinese tourists being stranded upon arrival, as the promised phinisi boat for their Komodo National Park tour was never booked. The suspect admitted to using all the funds for personal expenses.

East Java Police Uncover Rp71 Billion Fraudulent Online Arisan Scheme

The East Java Regional Police have exposed a fraudulent online arisan (rotating savings scheme) worth Rp71 billion, arresting a suspect from Bali. The scheme lured victims via social media with promises of high returns and fake legitimacy, involving at least 140 victims nationwide. Authorities are now tracing assets and plan to summon public figures who endorsed the operation.

Tourism Ministry Boosts Domestic Travel During Low Season via BBWI Travel Fair

Indonesia's Tourism Ministry is stimulating domestic tourism during the August-November low season through the 'Merdeka Berwisata #DiIndonesiaAja' travel fair in Cibubur, West Java. The event integrates the BBWI and BINA campaigns alongside the Indonesia Shopping Festival to drive economic activity. Targeting suburban markets, the initiative aims to support the national target of 1.18 billion domestic tourist trips in 2026.

BKPM Encourages Gold Utilisation Beyond Jewellery and Investment for High-Value Industry

Indonesia's Investment Ministry (BKPM) is pushing for the downstream utilisation of gold as a raw material for high-value industries like electronics and semiconductors, moving beyond its traditional use in jewellery and investment. The ministry highlighted that gold's role in manufacturing could significantly boost the national economy. This initiative aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's recent announcement of a major new gold and mineral discovery in Papua's mountains.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Drafts New Pesantren Regulation, Prioritising Student Safety and Protection

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs is developing a new safeguarding framework for Islamic boarding schools, known as pesantren, to be implemented in 2026. The initiative focuses on establishing a robust system for preventing violence and protecting students, ensuring a safe and conducive learning environment. The ministry is collaborating with various stakeholders, including the Indonesian Child Protection Commission and the National Police, to formulate the comprehensive guidelines.

Legendary Kampung Maintains Culinary Hygiene Through Kitchen Inspections

The Kampung Legendaris 2026 event at Mal Ciputra Jakarta is enforcing strict kitchen and food processing area inspections to ensure hygiene for over 40 traditional culinary vendors. This initiative aligns with the Ministry of Tourism's push to develop gastronomy tourism under the Wonderful Indonesia Gourmet programme, where food quality and cleanliness are key. Organisers are also balancing affordability for young visitors with fair business costs for traders bringing ingredients from their home regions.

Kuningan Regency Government Deploys Joint Team to Tackle TPSA Ciniru Fire

The Kuningan Regency Government has mobilised a joint team to contain a large fire at the Ciniru Final Disposal Site (TPSA) in Jalaksana District, West Java, which is threatening nearby community plantations. Authorities are prioritising the creation of firebreaks to prevent the flames from spreading further. The regent has also requested additional water supply vehicles from the provincial government to assist in the ongoing firefighting efforts.

Joint Task Force Cracks Down on Illegally Parked Trucks in Cengkareng

Authorities in West Jakarta have issued stern warnings to drivers of box trucks found parking illegally on Jalan Bojong Raya, Cengkareng. The vehicles, used to transport bottled water, were parked on top of water channels, risking damage to public infrastructure and obstructing traffic. Officials have urged the business owner to provide private parking facilities and warned that repeat offenders will face stricter enforcement.

Depraved Grandfather in Bogor Rapes Teenager Using Massage Ruse

A 70-year-old man in Bogor, West Java, has been arrested for repeatedly raping a 15-year-old neighbour, resulting in her pregnancy. The suspect, identified as DUM, allegedly exploited the victim's mother's profession as a masseuse by complaining about her service and requesting the daughter take over. He now faces up to 15 years in prison under Indonesia's new Criminal Code.

Latin American Nations Offer Aid After Devastating Colombian Earthquake

Several Latin American countries have pledged humanitarian assistance and search-and-rescue support to Colombia following a 7.4 magnitude earthquake that killed at least 234 people. El Salvador is dispatching cargo planes with supplies, while the United States has activated its Disaster Assistance Response Team. Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela, and Chile have also offered personnel and aid.

Examining the Decline in Media Credibility

Public trust in Indonesia's mainstream media has fallen to 32 percent, below the global average, as audiences increasingly turn to social media platforms and influencers for information. This erosion of credibility is driven by concerns over media ownership by political and business interests, as well as a shift in business models that prioritises speed and clicks over in-depth, verified journalism. The trend threatens the media's role as a pillar of democracy and its ability to provide essential context amid a flood of information.

BGN Urges Public to Return Unfit Free Nutritious Meals

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has instructed the public not to consume any substandard portions of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme and to return them immediately to the service unit. The agency emphasised that food safety is a top priority, requiring thorough checks by teachers before distribution. Strict action will be taken against service units found negligent in maintaining food quality.

West Jakarta Social Home Holds Competitions for Residents to Celebrate Independence Day

A social care home in West Jakarta organised a series of friendly competitions for 210 residents to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The event aimed to foster a spirit of nationalism and togetherness, ensuring residents feel the home is their own. Prizes included food and essential supplies for the winners.

House Member Urges Forestry Ministry to Tackle Monkey Terror in Indragiri Hilir

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called on the Ministry of Forestry to develop a population control strategy following a series of long-tailed macaque attacks in Indragiri Hilir, Riau. The conflict, which resulted in 18 attacks and 17 victims between July and August, has caused economic losses for farmers and threatened public safety. The lawmaker is pushing for a national protocol on synanthropic wildlife that includes clear measures for population management and victim compensation.

Pertamina-Assisted MSMEs Record IDR 8.57 Billion Turnover in First Half of 2026

Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) under Pertamina's guidance achieved a combined turnover of IDR 8.57 billion during the first semester of 2026, driven by participation in various regional, national, and international exhibitions. The state-owned energy company facilitated market access through 414 exhibitions and provided 2,822 certifications to enhance product legality and consumer trust. The initiative aligns with Indonesia's Sustainable Development Goals and the government's Asta Cita programme to strengthen entrepreneurship and create quality employment.

Supporting Sugar Self-Sufficiency, Kendal's Tjepiring Sugar Factory Consistently Absorbs Farmers' Cane

The Tjepiring Sugar Factory in Kendal, Central Java, has reaffirmed its commitment to absorbing sugarcane from local farmers for the 2026 milling season. This initiative aligns with Presidential Regulation No. 40 of 2023, which aims to accelerate national sugar self-sufficiency and improve farmer welfare. The factory's parent company, PT Industri Gula Nusantara, views this synergy between industry and government policy as crucial for strengthening national food security.

Netanyahu Becomes a Burden, Trump Reels from Attacks on All Sides

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's rejection of a US-backed 15-point peace plan has exposed a rift with President Donald Trump, potentially creating political problems for both leaders ahead of crucial elections. The plan, which included a ceasefire, Hamas disarmament, and an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, was accepted by Hamas but rebuffed by Netanyahu citing security concerns. Analysts warn the impasse could weaken Trump's image as a peacemaker and escalate into an open confrontation.

Ahead of Congress, NU Activists Outline Criteria for Leaders Worthy of Leading PBNU

Ahead of Nahdlatul Ulama's 35th Congress in August 2026, activists are calling for a new leadership with integrity and independence. They stress the next PBNU chair must be free from political party affiliations and public office, with strong roots in Islamic boarding school traditions. The push also includes demands for greater female participation in strategic decision-making and a clear separation between national politics and practical power-seeking.

AGO Names Two Tax Officials Suspects in Pulp Export Manipulation Case

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has named two tax officials as suspects for allegedly aiding PT TPL Tbk in a transfer pricing corruption scheme involving pulp exports. The company is accused of misreporting dissolving pulp as lower-value paper-grade pulp to its affiliate, causing an estimated state loss of Rp 2 trillion. The suspects, identified as supervisors BP and SR, allegedly failed to perform proper audit oversight and received money from the company.

Digital Era Transforms Insurance Services, Life Insurance Claims Now More Transparent

The digital transformation of Indonesia's financial sector is reshaping insurance services, with digitalised claim processes offering faster and more transparent payouts. A case study from sharia life insurer SalingJaga highlights how technology can provide financial certainty and ease the administrative burden on grieving families. The company's leadership emphasises that efficient, empathetic digital claims are key to building public trust in sharia insurance.

Hanura Builds Structure Down to 83,000 Villages Ahead of 2029 Election

The Hanura Party is establishing organisational structures in 83,000 villages across Indonesia as part of its preparations for the 2029 General Election. Party task force head Patrice Rio Capella stated that a complete structure from the provincial to the village level would enable the party to surpass the parliamentary threshold. The consolidation effort is intended to build a robust political machine, independent of the ongoing discussions regarding the parliamentary threshold.

New Standards for Hajj and Umrah Travel Licences

Indonesia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has enacted a new regulation imposing stricter standards for Special Hajj and Umrah travel organisers, including mandatory financial audits and bank guarantees. The regulation introduces detailed service requirements, such as specific proximity of accommodation to holy sites, and establishes a system-based supervision mechanism. Organisers face severe sanctions, including fines of up to four times the bank guarantee value and permanent licence revocation, for failing to dispatch or repatriate pilgrims or provide essential services.