Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 12 August 2026

Showing 1,151-1,200 of 1,433 articles

Collaboration Realises Renewable Energy: Pasar Kepandean Serang Becomes an Energy-Independent Market

Pasar Kepandean in Serang has been transformed into an 'Energy-Independent Market' through the installation of a 4 kWp solar power plant (PLTS). The initiative, a collaboration between Pertamina Foundation, local government, and universities, aims to cut electricity costs for traders while promoting clean energy. Beyond infrastructure, the programme includes financial literacy training and operational education to ensure the long-term sustainability of the market's micro-enterprises.

Families Await News of Passengers from Burning Ferry at Lembar Port

Dozens of families are anxiously waiting at Lembar Port in West Lombok for news of passengers evacuated from the burning KMP Putri Yasmin ferry. The vessel caught fire in the early hours of Wednesday morning while en route from Padangbai, Bali, prompting a search and rescue operation. One parent reported that his son, who had failed a military selection test in Bali, called to say he had been rescued but was unsure of his location.

Andre Rosiade Ready to Facilitate Resolution of Adhi Commuter Properti Consumer Complaints

House Commission VI has received a delegation of consumers from PT Adhi Commuter Properti Tbk (ADCP) who are facing unresolved issues with their housing projects. The commission, led by Andre Rosiade, has committed to facilitating a meeting between the consumers and key stakeholders, including Danantara Asset Management and Himbara, to seek a concrete solution. The complaints involve construction delays and uncertainty over unit handovers in several Transit Oriented Development (TOD) projects.

74 air defence assets including Rafale to appear in Jakarta during Independence Day

A total of 74 air defence assets from the Indonesian military, police, and search and rescue agency will feature in a flypast over the State Palace in Jakarta for the 81st Independence Day ceremony. The display will include the Indonesian Air Force's newest fighter jet, the Rafale, alongside transport aircraft, helicopters, and reconnaissance planes. Aerobatic teams Jupiter and Dynamic Pegasus are also scheduled to perform.

Seven Killed by Falling Tree in Pidie, Aceh

Seven people have died and five others were injured after a large tree fell onto their vehicle on a national road in Pidie Regency, Aceh. The incident occurred on Tuesday evening when the ageing kedondong tree, suspected of having root rot, collapsed onto an open-bed truck carrying residents. Authorities have urged the public to exercise caution when travelling near large trees, particularly during adverse weather conditions.

How to Buy Gold ETFs, Complete with Ticker Codes

Gold Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) have been launched in Indonesia, offering investors exposure to gold price movements without the need to hold physical bullion. The instruments, which include both physically-backed and gold-miner equity-based ETFs, are traded on the Indonesia Stock Exchange under the ticker XTRA. Five Indonesian asset management firms are issuing the products, which have also received sharia compliance approval from the Indonesian Ulema Council.

Governor Pramono Condemns Quran Memorisation Challenge for Alcohol as 'Desecration of Religion'

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has strongly condemned a viral incident at a music festival where a booth challenged attendees to recite Quranic verses in exchange for alcohol. Pramono described the act as a desecration of religious life and has instructed his staff to coordinate with authorities for firm action. The event organiser and the involved brand have since apologised, claiming the challenge was a spontaneous act by an audience member and not part of any official promotion.

UNM's Doctoral Programme in Informatics Achieves 'Excellent' Accreditation, Strengthening Digital Business Transformation Research

Universitas Nusa Mandiri's Doctoral Programme in Informatics has been awarded an 'Excellent' accreditation by LAM INFOKOM, valid until 2029. The recognition is seen as a mandate to enhance academic quality and produce innovative research in fields like Computer Vision and Biomedical Informatics. The university aims to strengthen its position as a Digital Business Campus by integrating technology with industry needs through advanced research.

DPR: Public Open to Creativity, but Religion Must Not Be Mocked

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has warned that public openness to youth creativity should not extend to using religion as a marketing gimmick. The statement follows outrage over a music festival promotion that allegedly required attendees to recite Quranic verses in exchange for alcoholic beverages. The lawmaker stressed that while apologies have been made, serious evaluation and stricter oversight of promotional activities are necessary.

PDIP's TB Hasanuddin Criticises Military Chief Over Public Security Responsibility

Indonesian MP TB Hasanuddin has rebuked the Armed Forces Commander for claiming responsibility for public security, insisting the task constitutionally belongs to the Police. He clarified that while the military can assist under specific operations, it must not overstep its mandate. The criticism follows the Commander's pledge to conduct patrols to ensure safety ahead of Independence Day celebrations.

Reading Saudi Arabia's Position as a 'New Regional Power'

Saudi Arabia is consolidating its position as a new geoeconomic and geopolitical force, moving beyond its traditional role as an oil exporter. The kingdom's Vision 2030 has evolved from an economic diversification agenda into a strategic geopolitical vision, leveraging its sovereign wealth fund and new defence partnerships. Riyadh is now pursuing a strategy of deterrence and diplomacy, aiming to act as a balancer among regional and global powers rather than aligning exclusively with a single bloc.

KMP Putri Yasmin Catches Fire in Lombok Strait

A major search and rescue operation is underway after the roll-on/roll-off ferry KMP Putri Yasmin caught fire in the Lombok Strait early Wednesday morning. The vessel was en route from Padang Bai to Lembar when the incident occurred, prompting a multi-agency response involving vessels and a helicopter. Authorities have prioritised the evacuation of all passengers and crew as the joint SAR team continues operations at the scene.

Partnering with Chinese State Giant, DMS Propertindo Accelerates Urbanova Edu Hub

PT DMS Propertindo Tbk. (KOTA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Chinese state-owned enterprise China Light Industry International Engineering Co., Ltd. (CLIEC) to develop the Urbanova Edu Hub in East Surabaya. The partnership will utilise a turnkey scheme, with CLIEC handling technical planning, procurement, and construction to ensure integrated and efficient project delivery. The company aims to capitalise on a potential market of over 64,000 students in the surrounding educational and industrial ecosystem.

Government to Restrict Pertalite Subsidised Fuel Users, Here's Why

The Indonesian government plans to restrict access to subsidised Pertalite fuel for upper-income groups to ensure subsidies reach vulnerable households. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia highlighted that wealthy vehicle owners, including those driving luxury cars, still consume subsidised fuel, burdening the state budget. The Finance Ministry is studying a digital monitoring system to gradually phase out subsidy eligibility for the top income deciles.

Fact Check: Claim That Earth's Gravity Will Disappear for 7 Seconds on 12 August 2026

A viral social media claim asserting that Earth's gravity will vanish for seven seconds on 12 August 2026 has been debunked. NASA and scientific publications confirm that gravity is a fundamental force tied to the planet's mass and cannot simply switch off. The hoax appears to exploit the occurrence of real astronomical events on that date, including a total solar eclipse, to lend false credibility to the narrative.

Orangutans Enter Central Kalimantan Settlements as Forest Fires Envelop Habitat

Raging forest and land fires in East Kotawaringin Regency, Central Kalimantan, are forcing protected wildlife such as orangutans to flee their natural habitats and seek refuge in residential plantations. The local Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) has confirmed sightings of the primates in community oil palm and rubber estates, attributing the displacement to thick smoke and flames threatening their survival. Authorities are urging residents not to harm the animals and to report any encounters immediately to prevent human-wildlife conflict.

Papuan Traditional Leaders Urge Unity and Security Ahead of 81st Independence Day

Traditional leaders in Papua have called on communities to strengthen unity and maintain security ahead of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The leaders emphasised the importance of brotherhood, critical consumption of information, and collaboration between stakeholders to ensure peace. They also expressed support for government programmes aimed at improving welfare in the region.

Former President Sentenced to Death, Ousted in Lightning Offensive

A Syrian court has sentenced former President Bashar al-Assad to death in absentia for crimes including murder and torture during the country's civil war. The verdict, delivered as part of a transitional justice process, was celebrated by some Syrians but is seen as largely symbolic given Assad's exile in Russia. Assad was ousted in a rapid rebel offensive in late 2024, ending his family's decades-long rule.

Through BSI Explore 2026, Students Collect Book Donations to Boost Literacy

University students participating in the BSI Explore 2026 programme have launched a book donation drive in Bekasi Regency to address the lack of quality reading materials in rural primary schools. The initiative, targeting SDN Karang Indah 1, collected various books from the public to foster a culture of reading and support educational equity. The programme is part of a wider month-long student placement across 38 partner villages.

Health Minister Reminds Sekolah Rakyat Students to Maintain Health: 'Brush Your Teeth Properly'

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has urged students at a pioneering government school for underprivileged children to adopt healthy habits, highlighting that nearly half of the intake initially suffered from dental problems. The visit to the Bogor Regency facility, conducted alongside the Social Affairs Minister, underscored the government's focus on holistic welfare as part of President Prabowo's directive to educate street children. Students are also being monitored for anaemia and obesity as they undergo rehabilitation before starting formal lessons.

IJBNet: SAF presents new business frontier for Indonesia-Japan partnership

The Indonesia Japan Business Network (IJBNet) has identified sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) as a promising new area for economic collaboration between the two nations. The initiative aims to combine Indonesia's resources and market with Japan's technology and industrial expertise to meet rising global demand for greener aviation fuel.

First Hearing for 11 Suspects in Rp 7.3 Trillion Palm Oil Waste Corruption Case Set for 18 August

The inaugural trial for eleven individuals accused of corruptly exporting palm oil mill effluent (POME) will commence on 18 August at the Central Jakarta District Court. The defendants, a mix of customs officials and company directors, allegedly misclassified crude palm oil (CPO) as waste to circumvent export controls, causing state losses estimated at Rp 7.3 trillion. The case involves accusations of bribery and the manipulation of industry roadmaps to facilitate the illegal exports between 2022 and 2024.

Dharmasraya Proves Ease of Licensing in the Field to Secure Top Six National Ranking

Dharmasraya Regency is undergoing a field assessment to validate its top-six national ranking for investment licensing services. The evaluation team is verifying that reforms in the Online Single Submission (OSS) system translate into genuinely easier, faster, and more transparent processes for the public and businesses.

Manulife Appoints Jeremy Young as Chief Distribution Officer, International Brokerage, Global High-Net-Worth

Manulife has named Jeremy Young as its new Chief Distribution Officer for International Brokerage within its Global High-Net-Worth (GHNW) segment, effective immediately. Young, who has been serving in an acting capacity since March, will lead the global expansion of the brokerage business. The appointment underscores Manulife's commitment to strengthening its platform for high-net-worth clients across Asia, the Middle East, and other international markets.

Tabanan Police Receive Prime Service Award Category A from Ministry of PANRB

The Tabanan Resort Police have been awarded the Prime Service Predicate A for 2025 by the Ministry of State Apparatus Empowerment and Bureaucratic Reform. The award was presented by Bali Police Chief Inspector General Daniel Adityajaya to Tabanan Police Chief AKBP I Putu Bayu Pati. The police chief expressed his appreciation to all personnel and stated the award serves as motivation to further improve the quality of public services.

Antam Gold Price Plunges Rp30,000 to Rp2.68 Million

The price of gold bullion produced by PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) experienced a significant drop of Rp30,000 per gram on Wednesday morning, settling at Rp2,680,000. The buyback price also fell to Rp2,516,000 per gram. The article notes that applicable tax regulations include a 1.5% income tax on buyback transactions exceeding Rp10 million and a 0.25% tax on purchases.

South Sumatra Police Win Three National Awards for Community Service

The South Sumatra Regional Police (Polda Sumsel) secured three accolades at the 2026 National Police Appreciation Awarding Day in Jakarta. The awards recognise the force's efforts in supporting the national free nutritious meal programme, community security patrols, and local food security innovation. Police leadership emphasised that the achievements reflect successful collaboration between officers, local government, and the public.

Purbaya Confident PFII Can Attract Over Rp500 Trillion in Foreign Investment

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa is optimistic that the planned International Financial Centre Indonesia (PFII) can attract more than Rp500 trillion in foreign investment. He stated that the tax incentives offered would not result in fiscal losses, as the economic activities they aim to generate are entirely new. The government is currently finalising the institutional and incentive frameworks for the centre, with initial capital support from the Indonesia Investment Authority (Danantara).

KuCoin Strengthens RWA Ecosystem with Ondo Tokenized Stocks on KuCoin Alpha

KuCoin has integrated Ondo tokenized stocks into its KuCoin Alpha platform, allowing eligible users to trade equities and ETFs directly from their exchange accounts. The move simplifies access to traditional financial instruments on the blockchain, offering products like broad-market ETFs and shares in major tech firms. This expansion positions KuCoin as a bridge between conventional finance and the growing on-chain economy.

Asia 'Swallowed' by US Dollar: Rupiah, Won, Yen Weaken; Only Two Currencies Survive

Most Asian currencies, including the Indonesian rupiah, South Korean won, and Japanese yen, weakened against a resilient US dollar on Wednesday morning. The greenback held firm as markets awaited key US inflation data that could influence the Federal Reserve's next interest rate decision. Only the Taiwanese dollar and Vietnamese dong managed to post gains amid the regional pressure.

Indonesian National Killed in Houthi Attack on Commercial Ship in Bab al-Mandeb

An Indonesian citizen was among four crew members killed when Houthi forces attacked the commercial vessel Tihamah in the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. The ship, which was carrying food supplies, was struck by three ballistic missiles, causing a fire and significant damage. Yemen's transport ministry condemned the attack as a 'terrorist crime' that threatens international shipping and humanitarian aid.

Airlangga Confirms Government Has Candidate for PFII Governor, Awaits Institutional Formation

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has confirmed the government has selected a candidate for the governor of the Indonesia International Financial Centre (PFII). The candidate is from within the government, but their identity will only be announced after the institution is formally established. The government is also still finalising the operational location, considering sites in Bali and Jakarta.

UBSI Students Join 2026 West Sumatra Thematic Community Service Programme

Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) has deployed students to a thematic community service programme (KKNT) in Agam Regency, West Sumatra, running from 31 July to 13 August 2026. The initiative, themed 'Bangkik Basamo, Membangun Nagari', involves over 30 universities and focuses on eight strategic areas including education, health, and digital marketing. The programme aims to deliver tangible benefits to local communities while fostering student leadership and social awareness.

Police to Exhume Body of Sutrimo, Former Household Staff of Junior Attorney General

The Greater Jakarta Metropolitan Police (Polda Metro Jaya) is conducting an exhumation of Sutrimo's body in Banyumas, Central Java, as part of a forensic investigation into his unnatural death. The case has been upgraded from an inquiry to a full investigation, involving a joint effort between Polda Metro Jaya, Central Java Police, and forensic experts. Sutrimo was a former household head for a high-ranking official in the Attorney General's Office for Special Crimes.

KMP Putri Yasmin Catches Fire While Sailing from Bali to Lombok

The passenger ferry KMP Putri Yasmin caught fire in the early hours of Wednesday while en route from Padangbai, Bali, to Lembar Port in West Lombok. Search and rescue teams from Mataram and Denpasar have been deployed to evacuate passengers and crew, with the operation prioritising the safety of all on board. The cause of the fire and the exact number of people on the vessel are still being determined.

Lampung Police Arrest 41 C3 Offenders in a Single Day

The Lampung Regional Police have apprehended 41 suspects across 40 criminal cases in a single day, primarily targeting aggravated theft, violent theft, and motor vehicle theft. The operation, conducted across multiple jurisdictions, also covered suspects previously on the wanted list. Authorities seized evidence from 86 crime scenes as part of ongoing efforts to suppress street crime and reassure the public.

National MSME Day: BRI Peduli Boosts MSMEs Through Sustainable Mentoring in 'Desa Brilian'

In commemoration of National MSME Day, BRI Peduli is strengthening its support for micro, small, and medium enterprises in Hargobinangun Village, Sleman, Yogyakarta. The initiative provides business infrastructure, market access, and continuous mentoring through BRI's microcredit officers. The programme aims to integrate local enterprises with the village's tourism potential, enhancing both livelihoods and the local economy.

Company Fined Rp115 Billion and Business Frozen for Tax Fraud

An Indonesian company has been fined Rp115.05 billion and had its business activities frozen for two years after being found guilty of issuing fraudulent tax invoices. The Bale Bandung District Court handed down the sentence following an investigation by the West Java I Regional Office of the Directorate General of Taxes, which uncovered the scheme. The penalty aims to uphold the integrity of the tax system and deter similar violations.

IJBNet: SAF Becomes New Business Field for Indonesia-Japan Partnership

The Indonesia Japan Business Network (IJBNet) has identified Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) as a promising new area for economic partnership between Indonesia and Japan. The collaboration aims to combine Indonesia's resources and market with Japan's technology and industrial experience. Both nations view the development of SAF supply chains as a strategic response to global decarbonisation demands in the aviation sector.

Rupiah Predicted to Consolidate Amid Middle East Geopolitical Developments

The Indonesian rupiah is expected to trade in a consolidative range as mixed signals emerge from geopolitical developments in the Middle East. Analysts point to cautious optimism over potential US-Iran talks regarding the Strait of Hormuz, while markets also await key US inflation data and a domestic MSCI announcement.

Iran prepares bill to ban enemy state vessels from entering the Gulf

Iran's parliament is advancing legislation that would prohibit military and commercial vessels of states deemed hostile from entering the Persian Gulf without Tehran's permission. The bill aims to strengthen Iran's authority and control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies. The move comes amid ongoing regional tensions and the continued closure of the strait, which is disrupting global energy supply chains.

MTI: Transfer of Kepulauan Seribu Transport Management Requires System Readiness

The transfer of maritime transport management in Kepulauan Seribu to PT Transjakarta requires regulatory restructuring, minimum service standards, and an integrated ticketing system, according to the Indonesian Transportation Society (MTI). High operational costs, weather vulnerability, and uneven infrastructure pose significant challenges to the transition. MTI has proposed adopting a management model similar to BP Batam, where Transjakarta would handle operations and business while the Harbourmaster's office retains authority over safety and seaworthiness.

UBSI Purwokerto Campus Wins Most Collaborative Campus Award from ASPIKMAS

Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) Purwokerto campus has been recognised as the Most Collaborative Campus in Education by the Banyumas Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Association (ASPIKMAS). The award highlights UBSI's consistent efforts in providing training, digital technology education, and scholarship access to MSMEs. The collaboration aims to bridge academic knowledge with real-world business needs to deliver tangible community benefits.

Minister Bahlil Confident Mining and Energy Sector PNBP Will Exceed Target

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has guaranteed that non-tax state revenue from the mineral, coal, and oil and gas sectors will surpass the 2026 target. As of July, PNBP from the ministry reached Rp 96.26 trillion, or 70.69 percent of the annual goal. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa also expressed confidence the figure would exceed 100 percent, supported by robust overall state revenue growth.

Xi Jinping's Personal Touch in China's Diplomacy

President Xi Jinping is leveraging personal friendships forged decades ago to add warmth to China's international relations. Through reunions and correspondence with old friends in the United States, Australia, and Laos, Xi emphasises that people-to-people bonds are the foundation of stable state relations. These personal connections are highlighted alongside flagship projects like the China-Laos Railway, which embodies the practical outcomes of such enduring ties.

Bali and Lombok SAR Teams Evacuate Passengers from Burning KMP Putri Yasmin

Search and rescue teams from Bali and Lombok are evacuating passengers and crew from the KMP Putri Yasmin ferry after it caught fire in the waters off Sekotong Beach, West Lombok. The vessel was en route from Padangbai, Bali, to Lembar Port when the fire broke out in the early hours of Wednesday. A joint SAR operation involving multiple agencies and nearby vessels is currently underway, with the priority being the safety of all on board.

Antam gold price plunges Rp30,000 to Rp2.68 million per gram on Wednesday

The price of gold bullion produced by state miner Antam dropped sharply by Rp30,000 to Rp2.68 million per gram on Wednesday morning. The buyback price also declined to Rp2.516 million per gram. The price list includes applicable taxes, with a 0.25 percent income tax on purchases and a 1.5 percent income tax on buyback transactions exceeding Rp10 million.

IDX Closely Monitors DWGL and GIAA Shares After Unusual Price Surges

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has placed shares of PT Dwi Guna Laksana (DWGL) and PT Garuda Indonesia (GIAA) under close surveillance due to unusual market activity. DWGL shares surged 93.64% over the past month, while GIAA saw a 48.08% monthly increase despite a year-to-date decline. The exchange advises investors to exercise caution and review company disclosures before making investment decisions.

Southeast Asia remains 'a clear priority' despite concerns over Trump tariffs: US envoy to ASEAN

The US Ambassador to ASEAN has reaffirmed that Southeast Asia remains a top priority for Washington, despite regional anxieties over President Trump's tariff policies. Ambassador Kevin Kim highlighted that the US seeks 'fair and reciprocal' trade terms and noted that American investment in the region exceeds $500 billion. He also addressed the South China Sea and Myanmar, stating the US respects ASEAN-led negotiations and will continue to uphold its treaty obligations and support regional partners.

OJK and Ministry of MSMEs Form Financing Task Force to Boost Small Business Growth

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) have agreed to establish a joint working group aimed at expanding funding access for small businesses. The initiative, formalised through a memorandum of understanding, seeks to integrate MSME development programmes with the financial services sector. Minister Maman Abdurrahman stressed that improved financing must be matched with stronger market access to ensure the additional capital translates into sustainable business growth.