Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 12 August 2026

Showing 1,201-1,250 of 1,433 articles

Riau Police Name Two Suspects in HGU Land Forest Fire Case in Bengkalis

Riau Regional Police have named two suspects, MK and DJ, in connection with a forest and land fire that scorched approximately four hectares within a HGU area in Bengkalis. The investigation is expanding to examine potential economic motives and the involvement of other parties responsible for land management. Authorities are employing a scientific investigation approach to establish the cause-and-effect relationship between land clearing activities and the resulting ecological damage.

Seven residents killed by falling tree in Pidie, says BPBD

Seven people have died after a large kedondong tree fell onto their open-bed truck on the Banda Aceh-Medan national road in Pidie Regency, Aceh. The incident occurred on Tuesday evening, with all victims identified as residents of Gampong Puli Seke. Local disaster officials have urged the public to exercise caution near large trees, particularly during adverse weather conditions.

BKPM: NIB Simplifies Access to Coaching and Financing for MSMEs

The Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming/BKPM has emphasised the importance of the Business Identification Number (NIB) for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), stating it provides legal identity and unlocks access to government coaching and financing facilities. Officials highlighted that legalisation through the NIB not only offers legal certainty but also opens doors to various development programmes. The role of women in strengthening the family economy through business adaptation was also underscored during an MSME empowerment event in Banyumas.

US Judge Blocks Trump's Postal Voting Rule

A federal judge has issued a nationwide injunction preventing the US Postal Service from implementing President Trump's executive order tightening postal voting rules. The order, signed in March, aimed to enforce new requirements for mail-in and absentee ballots. The legal battle continues as the Supreme Court considers the administration's request to lift the earlier block ahead of the November midterm elections.

IHSG strengthens amid 'wait and see' over MSCI August review

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) edged higher on Wednesday as investors adopted a cautious stance ahead of MSCI's August 2026 index review for global equities, including Indonesian stocks. Market participants are hopeful that recent domestic capital market reforms will prompt MSCI to lift the freeze on Indonesian shares. Attention is also focused on the upcoming US inflation data and the nomination of Destry Damayanti as the sole candidate for Bank Indonesia governor.

Three Ships and Helicopter Deployed to Evacuate Passengers from KMP Putri Yasmin

A joint search and rescue operation involving three ships and a helicopter has been launched to evacuate passengers from the KMP Putri Yasmin ferry, which caught fire while sailing from Bali to Lombok. The vessel was en route from Padangbai to Lembar when the incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday. Authorities are prioritising the safety of all passengers and crew, with the exact number of people on board and the cause of the fire still under investigation.

The Price of Safety: Why Women Pay More for Secure Accommodation

A report from London highlights the 'safety premium' women face while travelling, paying significantly more for female-only accommodation. The article draws parallels with the 'pink tax', noting that women often incur extra costs for security measures like taxis or segregated hotel floors to mitigate the risk of harassment and assault.

UNM's 'Excellent' Accreditation Is Not a Gift, But the Result of 25 Years of Continuous Improvement

Universitas Nusa Mandiri (UNM) celebrated its 25th anniversary, marking a journey from a small academy to a digital business university. The rector emphasised that the recent 'Unggul' (Excellent) accreditation for all its Information Technology faculty programmes was not a prize, but the outcome of a rigorous, continuous improvement process. The institution views this milestone as a new responsibility to enhance graduate quality and educational standards for all stakeholders.

Academic highlights importance of building integrated value chain for downstreaming

An Indonesian academic has stressed that the country's main challenge in mineral downstreaming is no longer resource availability but building an integrated value chain from refining to manufacturing. Mastery of material engineering and product design is essential for Indonesia to become a technology producer rather than just a resource supplier. The view aligns with the national push for advanced material industries, leveraging upstream mineral wealth and downstream demand from state-owned enterprises.

East Kalimantan Tourism Office to Hoist Flag Underwater with Whale Sharks for Independence Day

The East Kalimantan Tourism Office is planning a spectacular underwater flag-hoisting ceremony accompanied by whale sharks to celebrate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The event at Pulau Miang aims to promote the region's marine tourism potential on a national stage. A team of 12 professional divers will conduct the ceremony, which will be recorded and broadcast on 17 August 2026.

Rice Prices Surge Again, Followed by Chillies, Eggs, and Chicken: See the List

National food prices have seen a broad increase, with rice, chillies, eggs, and chicken all recording significant rises according to the latest data from Bank Indonesia's National Strategic Food Price Information Centre. The price of lower-quality rice rose by Rp 800 per kilogramme, while curly red chillies jumped by Rp 2,400. The increases come amid a mixed picture for other staples, with shallots and beef prices declining.

Finance and Energy Ministers Forge Plan to Restrict Pertalite for Targeted Subsidies

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa and Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia are developing a scheme to restrict subsidised Pertalite fuel access for high-income groups, specifically targeting the top two economic deciles. The government is reviewing Pertamina's system to implement the policy, aiming to ensure the hundreds of trillions of rupiah in energy subsidies reach those truly entitled. Bahlil clarified that motorcycles will not face purchase restrictions, but luxury vehicles like BMWs and Mercedes-Benzes should not be using subsidised fuel.

SAR Team Evacuates Passengers from Burning Ferry in Lombok Strait

A joint search and rescue operation is underway after the KMP Putri Yasmin ferry 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 prioritising passenger and crew safety. Assets including rescue boats and a helicopter have been deployed to the scene.

KMP Putri Yasmin Catches Fire in Lombok Strait, Joint SAR Team Evacuates Passengers

A passenger ferry, KMP Putri Yasmin, caught fire while crossing the Lombok Strait from Bali to Lombok on Wednesday morning. Search and rescue teams from Mataram and Denpasar were swiftly deployed, coordinating with the navy and local vessels to evacuate all passengers. Officials have expressed optimism that all on board have been rescued safely, with no immediate reports of casualties.

Police Implement Contraflow at Eight Points in Labuan Bajo for Golo Koe Cultural Carnival

The West Manggarai Traffic Police have introduced a contraflow traffic system across eight strategic points in Labuan Bajo to manage congestion during the Golo Koe Maria Assumpta cultural carnival. The dynamic traffic engineering scheme, effective from 2 p.m. local time, spans the main corridor of the super-priority tourism destination. Authorities have also prioritised emergency access routes to ensure ambulances and medical vehicles can reach Siloam Hospital without obstruction.

Danantara Drives Thicker SOE Profits, Timah Leads with 804% Surge

Indonesian state-owned enterprises (SOEs) under the Danantara investment authority reported strong first-half 2026 results, led by tin miner PT Timah's dramatic 804.7% profit leap. Several other SOEs, including Pupuk Indonesia and Semen Indonesia, posted triple-digit growth, while former loss-makers Krakatau Steel and Kimia Farma successfully returned to profitability. An expert noted that performance remains driven by blue-chip firms and urged accelerated streamlining to sustain the positive momentum.

House Commission III Holds Fit and Proper Test for Supreme Court Candidates

The Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission III is conducting a two-day fit and proper test for 14 candidates vying for positions on the Supreme Court, including ad hoc judges for human rights and corruption. The process, which began on Wednesday, involves hearings with the selection committee and will conclude with a plenary decision on the candidates' approval. The candidates include 11 nominees for the Supreme Court, two for ad hoc human rights judges, and one for an ad hoc corruption judge.

Polda Metro Jaya Confirms Sutrimo Exhumation Proceeds on Schedule

The Greater Jakarta Metropolitan Police have confirmed that the exhumation of Sutrimo's body in Banyumas, Central Java, is proceeding as planned. The forensic examination, led by senior forensic experts, follows the consolidation of two police reports, including one from the family of the deceased, who was a household head for a former senior prosecutor. The investigation aims to determine the cause of death amid suspicions of foul play.

Trade Minister Busan Urges Automotive Industry to Maximise Trade Agreements in Toyota Meeting

Trade Minister Budi Santoso has called on the automotive sector to boost exports by fully leveraging Indonesia's existing trade pacts. During a meeting with Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indonesia, he highlighted the targeted completion of Gulf Cooperation Council negotiations by November to strengthen market access. The discussion also addressed challenges in markets like Mexico, where no trade deal exists, and encouraged optimising agreements such as the one with Peru.

Antam Gold Price Plunges by IDR 30,000 in Today's Trading

The price of gold bullion produced by state-owned miner PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) fell sharply by IDR 30,000 to IDR 2,680,000 per gram on Wednesday. This decline pushes the price back to the IDR 2.6 million level after it had previously held above IDR 2.7 million. The buyback price also mirrored the drop, settling at IDR 2,516,000 per gram.

Exhumation of Sutrimo's Body Held This Morning, Led by Brigadier General Hastry

The exhumation of Sutrimo, a man found dead in front of a clinic in South Jakarta, is being carried out this morning in Banyumas, Central Java. The process, led by Brigadier General Hastry of the Indonesian Forensic Doctors Association, aims to determine the exact cause of death. The family has chosen not to witness the exhumation but has stated they will accept the results.

Fire Engulfs Frame Factory in Duren Sawit, East Jakarta

A fire broke out at a frame factory in Duren Sawit, East Jakarta, in the early hours of Wednesday morning. Firefighters faced challenges including distant water sources and narrow access roads while battling the blaze. No casualties have been reported and the cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

25 Years of UNM: Rector Says Long Journey Built on Trust and Good Intentions

Universitas Nusa Mandiri (UNM) marked its 25th anniversary, with its rector reflecting on the institution's growth as a collaborative effort founded on trust and a commitment to national benefit. The milestone served as a moment to acknowledge past challenges and the collective work of faculty, students, and partners. UNM views the anniversary not as a finish line but as a new chapter to continue innovating and contributing to society.

Purbaya Reveals Tax Revenue Grew 23% at End of July

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa announced that tax revenue up to the end of July 2026 grew by more than 23% year-on-year. The minister assessed the collection as relatively safe for meeting the 2026 state budget target. The growth rate, however, represents a slight deceleration from the 24.6% recorded in the previous month.

Rupiah Strengthens to Rp 17,848 as Market Focuses on MSCI Review and Destry Damayanti's BI Governor Candidacy

The Indonesian rupiah saw a slight strengthening in early spot trading on Wednesday, despite predictions of continued weakness. Market attention is focused on the upcoming MSCI review and the appointment of Acting Governor Destry Damayanti as the sole candidate to lead Bank Indonesia, which has eased leadership concerns. However, negative sentiment persists following a decline in the Consumer Confidence Index to its lowest level since September 2025.

Kaspersky H1 2026 Report: APAC Cyber Attacks Intensify, AI-Powered Supply Chain Threats Emerge

Kaspersky's H1 2026 report reveals a surge in cyber attacks across the Asia Pacific, with 75 million online threats blocked. The report highlights a shift in tactics, with criminals increasingly leveraging artificial intelligence to automate and accelerate attacks. Supply chain vulnerabilities and the exploitation of open-source software are also identified as growing risks for organisations in the region.

Four Malaysian Investigators Arrive in Jakarta to Question Pilot in Drug Case

Four investigators from Malaysia's Narcotics Crime Investigation Department have arrived in Jakarta to interrogate a Malaysia Airlines pilot arrested for drug smuggling. The joint probe aims to gather more information and compare notes to identify the suspect's links to an international syndicate. The pilot was previously caught with 26 kilograms of ecstasy and admitted to smuggling drugs into Indonesia on three prior occasions.

Family Speaks Out Ahead of Sutrimo's Grave Exhumation Today

The family of Sutrimo, a former household head for an ex-official at the Attorney General's Office, has expressed their grief ahead of the exhumation of his body by Polda Metro Jaya. They have stated they are too distressed to witness the process directly but are resigned to the procedure to help uncover the facts of his death. The exhumation is part of a criminal investigation into the suspicious circumstances surrounding his demise.

Duri Pulo Cadres and Posyandu Represent Central Jakarta at Provincial Level

Posyandu Melati 2 and its cadres from Duri Pulo have been selected to represent Central Jakarta in the 2026 DKI Jakarta Provincial Health Assessment. They were chosen after a tiered selection process from the sub-district to city level. The team is optimistic about advancing to the national level, supported by innovative community health programmes.

Sumatran tiger enters West Sumatra BKSDA trap after eating livestock

A young female Sumatran tiger was captured in a trap set by the West Sumatra Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) in Agam Regency after it preyed on a resident's goat. The tiger entered the trap less than an hour after it was installed near a primary school and a junior high school. Authorities are now preparing to evacuate the critically endangered animal.

House Commission III to Conduct Fit and Proper Test for Supreme Court Candidates Today

The House of Representatives' Commission III is set to hold fit and proper tests for candidates for the Supreme Court, including ad hoc judges for human rights and corruption cases. A total of 14 candidates will undergo the selection process, which begins with a hearing with the selection committee. The tests are a key step in the appointment of senior judicial officials in Indonesia.

Indonesia plans additional social aid as El Nino drought spreads

The Indonesian government is preparing to distribute supplementary social assistance to households classified as poor or extremely poor as drought conditions worsen across Java, Sumatra, and Nusa Tenggara. Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf confirmed that aid delivery will be based on regional needs assessments, while existing programmes like the Family Hope Programme and Non-Cash Food Assistance will continue as scheduled. Emergency aid, including clean water supplies, is also being deployed to areas facing severe shortages and heightened wildfire risks.

Rupiah Opens Weaker, US Dollar Climbs to Rp17,840

The Indonesian rupiah weakened slightly against the US dollar in early trading on Wednesday, extending losses from the previous session. Market caution persists ahead of key US inflation data, which will influence expectations for the Federal Reserve's next interest rate decision. Domestic consumption data also remains weak, limiting support for the local currency.

IHSG Opens Higher as Wall Street & Asian Markets Weighed by Oil Prices Amid Iran-US Conflict

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened slightly higher on Wednesday, defying pressure on Wall Street and other Asian bourses caused by rising oil prices. The gains were limited as investors remained cautious over global inflation uncertainty and fading optimism for a peace deal between the United States and Iran. Analysts predict the IHSG will attempt to break through a strong resistance level at 6,300.

East Java Culture and Tourism Office Revokes Runner-Up Title of 2026 Raka Jatim Over Abortion Request

The East Java Culture and Tourism Office (Disbudpar) has officially stripped Tio Ferdian Rahmana of his title as First Runner-Up in the 2026 Raka Jatim pageant. The decision follows a meeting with the judging panel and other stakeholders, citing a violation of the code of ethics. Rahmana is required to return all attributes, prizes, and cash awards, and no replacement will be appointed for the vacated position.

World Elephant Day 2026: Safeguarding the Existence of Nusantara's Elephants

The plight of Indonesia's endangered elephants, highlighted by the online fame of a Sumatran elephant named Domang, is the focus of World Elephant Day 2026. Habitat loss from plantation and infrastructure development, along with poaching for the illegal ivory trade, has caused a dramatic decline in populations, with Sumatran elephants now numbering around 1,100. The day serves as a critical call to action to protect these 'forest farmers' and ensure their survival.

Kusamba Village's Saparan Tradition: Students Clean Up the Coastline

Dozens of students in Klungkung, Bali, participated in a coastal clean-up as part of the annual Saparan tradition, blending cultural heritage with environmental education. The initiative aims to instil a love for the environment and an understanding of local customs in the younger generation. The tradition, which also includes communal prayers and feasting, is currently in the process of being recognised as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Indonesia to Trial CNG as LPG 3 kg Substitute Next Week

The Indonesian government will begin public trials of compressed natural gas (CNG) as a replacement for subsidised 3 kg LPG canisters next week. The initiative aims to reduce the country's reliance on imported LPG and is projected to cut subsidy costs by 30 to 40 per cent by utilising domestic gas resources. Final safety testing is currently underway at the national oil and gas testing centre before the trial commences.

Industry Needs Shift, Product Design Students Urged to Be More Adaptive

Mercu Buana University's Product Design programme is pushing students to align their skills with evolving industrial demands through exhibitions and industry collaboration. The Innovartion #7 and Panen Karya 4 exhibition, held at the Ministry of Trade's IDDC, showcased works emphasising research, functionality, and market potential. The initiative aims to bridge academic learning with professional practice, ensuring graduates can develop commercially viable and user-centred products.

Gandaria Utara Residents Compete to Achieve Food Security Ahead of Independence Day

Residents of Gandaria Utara in South Jakarta are participating in a food security competition to mark the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence. The initiative encourages households to plant vegetables in their yards using compost produced from organic waste. The programme aims to foster sustainable habits, beautify the neighbourhood, and raise awareness about waste management.

Public Works Ministry Optimises Tapin Dam to Secure Water Supply During Dry Season

The Ministry of Public Works is maximising the operation of the Tapin Dam in South Kalimantan to ensure water availability amid the El Niño-induced dry season. The dam is prioritising raw water supply and irrigation to support the government's food self-sufficiency targets. Its management includes dynamic hydrological monitoring and controlled water releases to mitigate drought and prevent forest fires.

Still a Couch Potato? Beware, Diabetes and Obesity Loom in Productive Age

A sedentary lifestyle is becoming a silent threat to public health, with the WHO linking physical inactivity to two million deaths annually. An occupational health expert warns that prolonged sitting and reliance on digital conveniences are leading to a rise in obesity, diabetes, and hypertension among the productive-age population. The public is urged to evaluate daily habits and incorporate basic physical movement like walking.

Komodo Park Authority Explains Why Jessica Mila Was Allowed to Visit Padar Island Despite Sailing Ban

The Komodo National Park Office (BTNK) has clarified that 190 tourists, including actress Jessica Mila, were permitted to trek on Padar Island on 7 August 2026 despite a sailing ban imposed by the harbour master due to bad weather. BTNK stated its services remain operational regardless of sailing restrictions, which fall under the separate authority of the KSOP. The captain of the vessel carrying Mila has been sanctioned for violating the sailing permit, while the actress claimed she was not informed of the ban.

Woman's Staged Suicide in Tangerang Revealed as Murder by Boyfriend

A woman found hanged in Tangerang was actually murdered by her boyfriend after she asked him to take responsibility for her pregnancy. The perpetrator, who was already married, strangled her before staging the scene to look like a suicide. He now faces the death penalty for premeditated murder.

BKPM: Business Identification Number Eases Access to Coaching and Financing for MSMEs

Indonesia's Investment Ministry (BKPM) has emphasised that possessing a Business Identification Number (NIB) is crucial for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to access government coaching and financing facilities. The NIB serves as official legal identity, opening doors to various support programmes. With only 16 million of an estimated 56 million MSMEs currently registered, the government is developing an integrated platform to boost legal compliance among small businesses.

KPK Probes Contract Value of Rice Social Assistance for PKH During Rudy Tanoe Examination

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating the contract value and distribution scheme of a rice social assistance programme for the Family Hope Programme (PKH) after questioning Rudijanto Tanoesoedibjo. The anti-graft body is working with the BPKP to calculate state losses, which are estimated at Rp200 billion, from the alleged corruption in the 2020-2021 programme. The investigation has led to the naming of three individual suspects and two corporate suspects, including PT Dosni Roha Indonesia and DNR Logistics.

Psychologists Ready to Strengthen Mental Health Services at Community Health Centres

The national need for mental health workers in primary care can be met more quickly by optimising the competencies of professional psychology graduates, experts say. A revised curriculum now trains psychologists across clinical, school, workplace, and community settings, aligning with the broad functions required at Puskesmas. A global mental health expert noted that psychologists and clinical psychologists should complement each other, similar to general practitioners and specialists.

Grave of Sutrimo, Alleged Household Manager of Febrie Adriansyah, Exhumed Led by Doctor Hastry

Indonesian police have exhumed the body of Sutrimo in Banyumas, Central Java, to investigate the cause of his death, which his family has reported as suspicious. The procedure is led by Brigadier General Dr Hastry, head of the Indonesian Forensic and Medicolegal Doctors Association, as part of a murder investigation. Sutrimo, reportedly the household manager for former special crimes deputy attorney general Febrie Adriansyah, was found unconscious in South Jakarta in July and later pronounced dead at a hospital.

Sidoarjo Police Win Food Security and SPPG Management Awards

The Sidoarjo Resort Police (Polresta Sidoarjo) has secured two national awards for its support of government priority programmes, including food security and the Free Nutritious Meal initiative. The accolades were presented by National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo at an event in Jakarta. The force pledged to continue innovating in public service and fully backing President Prabowo Subianto's key policies.

Constitutional Court to Deliver Rulings on 15 Judicial Review Petitions Today

Indonesia's Constitutional Court is scheduled to hand down decisions on 15 judicial review petitions this afternoon, covering a wide range of legislation including the new Criminal Code and the Election Law. The rulings will address challenges to laws on mining, the financial sector, and regional governance, among others. The session follows a morning hearing for petitioners to revise their submissions on administrative courts and civil servant pensions.