Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 12 August 2026

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Trade Minister Urges Automotive Industry to Maximise Trade Agreements

Trade Minister Budi Santoso has called on Indonesia's automotive sector to boost exports by leveraging existing trade pacts. He highlighted ongoing efforts to finalise a deal with the Gulf Cooperation Council by November to strengthen market access. The government is also streamlining export procedures through automated electronic certificates of origin.

BSMI Holds Wound Healing Workshop in Egypt, Driving Innovation in Wound Care for Palestinian Patients

The Indonesian Red Crescent Society (BSMI) has conducted an advanced wound healing workshop in Cairo, Egypt, in collaboration with the Palestine Red Crescent Society. The training aimed to equip Egyptian and Palestinian doctors with biological-based techniques to treat complex wounds, particularly for patients from Gaza. The methods introduced are designed to be simple, non-surgical, and resource-efficient, making them suitable for conflict-affected areas with limited medical supplies.

JCI Remains Volatile, These Stocks Are Worth a Look

The Jakarta Composite Index fell 1.53% amid broad sectoral weakness and foreign outflows, though healthcare stocks bucked the trend. Several companies, including sugar producer GULA and coal miner ITMG, reported strategic expansions and improved earnings. Analysts also highlighted buyback plans by LABS and provided technical trading recommendations for selected stocks.

Sutrimo's Body to Be Exhumed Today, Family: We Accept Whatever the Outcome

The family of Sutrimo is preparing for the exhumation of his grave in Banyumas today as part of a legal investigation. Relatives say his mother remains in shock but is gradually improving, and the family has expressed their acceptance of whatever the results may be. The exhumation is understood by the family to be a necessary part of the case handling process.

Trump Claims US Has Three Strategies for Dealing with Iran, Including Escalation

US President Donald Trump has outlined three potential approaches for handling Iran, including military escalation and economic pressure. He stated that his administration is proceeding cautiously with negotiations, hoping that economic sanctions will have an effect. This comes after Trump recently called off a military strike, citing the possibility of a peace deal involving the opening of the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's nuclear programme.

Marking National MSME Day, BRI Peduli Provides Sustainable Mentoring in Brilian Village

In commemoration of National MSME Day, BRI Peduli is reinforcing its support for micro, small, and medium enterprises through capacity building and mentoring in Hargobinangun Village, Sleman. The initiative, part of the Desa BRILiaN programme, aims to strengthen local economic ecosystems by providing business infrastructure and financial guidance. BRI views the empowerment of village-level enterprises as a key driver for sustainable and competitive local economic growth.

Many Young People Give Up Job Hunting, Exhausted by Scattering CVs Everywhere

A global downturn in the labour market is pushing a growing number of people, particularly young adults, to abandon their job searches after months of rejection. Economists are concerned that a 'low-hire, low-fire' environment and intense competition are driving workers out of the labour force, with significant psychological tolls reported. Some individuals are instead opting to return to education or switch to more stable sectors like healthcare.

JCI Plunges, Foreign Investors Caught in Unison Offloading These 10 Stocks

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) extended its losing streak, falling 1.53% to 6,267.88 on Tuesday, with foreign investors recording a net sell of Rp687.80 billion across all markets. The sell-off was broad-based, with 542 stocks declining and foreign funds aggressively exiting major blue-chip and energy counters. The heaviest foreign outflows hit Chandra Asri Pacific, Bank Mandiri, and Dian Swastatika Sentosa, collectively accounting for nearly half a trillion rupiah in net sales.

Quran Teachers and Madrasah Educators in Bandung Regency Attend Free Competency Training

Approximately 40 Quran teachers, pesantren educators, and madrasah diniyah instructors in Bandung Regency participated in a free professional development programme. Organised by the Tevis Foundation, the training focused on improving teaching skills, public speaking, and building stronger connections with students. Participants highlighted the scarcity of such opportunities for religious educators and expressed hope for continued programmes.

Zyrex Officially Becomes Odoo Official Partner in Indonesia, Delivers End-to-End IT Solutions

PT Zyrexindo Mandiri Buana Tbk (IDX: ZYRX) has officially become an Odoo Official Partner in Indonesia, marking a strategic shift from a hardware provider to a comprehensive digital transformation solutions company. The partnership enables Zyrex to offer Odoo's ERP software licences, implementation, and customisation services to businesses ranging from SMEs to large corporations and government agencies. The move is expected to boost Zyrex's profit margins through higher-value services and generate stable recurring revenue from software subscriptions and support contracts.

KMP Putri Yasmin Catches Fire in Sekotong Waters, West Lombok

The ferry KMP Putri Yasmin caught fire in the waters off Sekotong Beach, West Lombok, early Wednesday morning. The Mataram Search and Rescue Office dispatched a team to the scene after receiving a report at 04:39 Wita, with all passengers observed wearing life jackets. The cause of the fire and the exact number of passengers and crew are still being investigated.

Modular Telemedicine Health Post Breaks Isolation in Manggarai Barat's 3T Regions

A pioneering integrated health ecosystem combining solar power, satellite internet, and AI-driven telemedicine has been launched in a remote village in East Nusa Tenggara. The Nurhealth Connection programme aims to overcome extreme geographical barriers that have long delayed critical medical care, particularly for childbirth and emergency evacuations. The initiative, a collaboration between a national Islamic charity and CIMB Niaga Syariah, connects local residents with specialist doctors in Jakarta via teleconferencing.

Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers to Gain SME Status, Lawmaker: State Recognises Ojol as Business Actors

The Indonesian government is moving to formally recognise online motorcycle taxi (ojol) drivers as micro, small, and medium enterprises (SMEs) through a forthcoming presidential regulation. This landmark policy aims to provide a legal framework for income tax exemptions for those earning below the non-taxable income threshold and grant access to subsidised credit and social security. A senior lawmaker has praised the initiative as a progressive step to end the drivers' regulatory grey zone and bolster their purchasing power.

Government to Provide Training and Job Opportunities for Drug Abuse Survivors

The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Manpower, is preparing skills training and employment access for drug abuse survivors who have completed rehabilitation. The initiative aims to ensure their continued recovery by enabling them to become economically productive and independent. The programme is part of a cross-ministerial collaboration involving the National Narcotics Agency and the Ministries of Social Affairs and Health.

Lebanese President: Israel Must Leave Our Territory

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has declared that Lebanon will not tolerate any Israeli military presence on its soil, insisting on a full withdrawal. He stated that all Lebanese factions agree on the key objectives of Israeli withdrawal, prisoner repatriation, and reconstruction. Aoun noted that a recent framework agreement has reduced Israeli attacks and is encouraging displaced residents to return.

Asian Markets Open Mixed as Investors Await Crucial US Data

Asia-Pacific stock markets opened mixed on Wednesday as investors awaited key US inflation data that could influence the Federal Reserve's next policy move. The consumer price index for July is expected to show persistent annual inflation above the Fed's 2% target, keeping markets on edge. The outcome is seen as pivotal for determining whether the central bank will raise interest rates at its September meeting.

The Planet Under Threat

The article argues that development governance in Mainland Southeast Asia, particularly concerning the Mekong, Salween, and Irrawaddy river basins, is failing to address the cumulative and transboundary ecological impacts of hydropower, mining, and climate change. It highlights a mismatch between fragmented, project-based national institutions and the interconnected planetary systems of the Anthropocene. The piece calls for a new paradigm of 'planetary development governance' where national sovereignty evolves to include a responsibility for protecting shared ecological systems, a concept highly relevant to regional cooperation within ASEAN.

Bromo Wildfire Rages On, Tourist Site Closure Extended to 15 August

The closure of the Mount Bromo tourist area has been extended until 15 August 2026 as firefighters continue to battle a forest and land fire that has now scorched nearly 900 hectares. The TNBTS authority has shut all access points to guarantee visitor safety and facilitate firefighting operations. Affected visitors are being offered refunds or the option to reschedule their bookings.

Garuda and InJourney Offer 170,845 Free Tickets to Boost Tourism

Garuda Indonesia and InJourney have launched a programme offering 170,845 free domestic add-on flights to international visitors, aiming to extend tourist stays and spread economic benefits beyond primary entry points. The initiative, which runs until 30 November 2026, is designed to increase aircraft occupancy and stimulate local economies, including small businesses and hotels. InJourney noted that the average foreign tourist spent US$1,285 and stayed 10 nights in the second quarter of 2024, highlighting the importance of encouraging longer, multi-destination travel.

East Java Police Investigate Alleged CPNS Fraud, Victim Losses Reach Rp20 Billion

The East Java Regional Police are investigating a large-scale fraud scheme involving fake civil servant recruitment, with total losses estimated at over Rp20 billion. The scam allegedly involved active military personnel who approached victims who had failed official CPNS exams, offering them a 'follow-up' selection path for a fee. Police have urged the public to verify all recruitment information through official government channels.

East Java Police Investigate CPNS Scam Involving Military Personnel, Losses Estimated at IDR 20 Billion

East Java Police are investigating a civil servant recruitment scam that allegedly involves active military personnel and has defrauded over 20 victims of an estimated IDR 20 billion. The victims were promised guaranteed placement in government ministries and state-owned enterprises through a 'special admission' route after failing official exams. Authorities have urged the public to be cautious of individuals offering guaranteed government positions in exchange for money.

Indonesia to Restrict Subsidised Pertalite Fuel Purchases for Wealthier Groups

The Indonesian government is preparing to restrict the purchase of subsidised Pertalite fuel for high-income groups, specifically targeting the top two economic deciles. The policy aims to ensure that the substantial fuel subsidy budget is directed more accurately towards those in genuine need. Officials confirmed that motorcycle users will be exempt from the restrictions, which will primarily target luxury vehicle owners.

Foreign Investors Scoop Up These 10 Stocks Amid IHSG Plunge

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) fell sharply to the psychological level of 6,200, closing down 1.53% on Tuesday. Despite a net foreign sell-off of Rp687.80 billion across the market, overseas investors selectively accumulated shares in several major companies. Key stocks targeted included Bank Rakyat Indonesia, Aneka Tambang, and Amman Mineral Internasional, helping to cushion the index's decline.

Soaring Feed Costs and Plummeting Egg Prices Squeeze Central Java Poultry Farmers

Poultry farmers in Central Java are facing a severe financial squeeze as feed prices have surged by 25 per cent since April while farm-gate egg prices have collapsed to as low as Rp15,000 per kilogram. Members of the Prosperous Poultry Farmers Cooperative (KPUS) staged peaceful protests across eight regencies, demanding government intervention to lower feed costs and increase the quota for subsidised maize. Farmers also claim the national free nutritious meal programme (MBG) has failed to provide meaningful relief, as purchasing prices by designated nutrition fulfilment units remain well below the promised Rp25,000 per kilogram.

PII Commits to Improving Engineer Certification Services

The Indonesian Engineers Association (PII) has pledged to enhance its certification services to accelerate the growth of professional engineers and support the nation's reindustrialisation. The initiative includes accrediting professional associations to conduct certifications locally, streamlining the process. This move aims to certify more of the country's 700,000 engineers, improving quality and providing legal protection.

Six Profound Messages from Surah Ad-Duha Implied in Its 11 Short Verses

Surah Ad-Duha, consisting of 11 short verses, carries deep theological and cosmic messages. The surah uses the metaphor of morning brightness and night to illustrate the natural alternation between states of light and darkness in the universe. This alternation is also reflected in human spiritual life, where periods of enthusiasm in worship are followed by moments of lassitude.

Coal Prices Stagnate as Turkey's Transit Blockade and Shifting Asian Demand Loom

Global coal prices remain flat despite rising oil costs, as Turkey's new restrictions on vessels transiting to Russian ports threaten to disrupt supply chains. Meanwhile, a recent surge in Chinese coal imports is expected to be short-lived, driven by temporary domestic production cuts rather than sustained demand. India is also actively reducing its reliance on coal-fired power generation.

Extreme Heat Anomalies: The Latent Danger of the Climate Crisis in Indonesia

Indonesia is experiencing increasingly severe heatwaves, with temperatures reaching up to 38 degrees Celsius, driven by phenomena like El Niño and the positive Indian Ocean Dipole. This extreme heat poses systemic risks, threatening public health through heat stress, slashing labour productivity and agricultural output, and exacerbating the urban heat island effect in major cities. Without comprehensive mitigation and adaptation strategies, the escalating climate crisis could significantly undermine the nation's economic stability and food security.

National Data Analysis: The Foundation for Evidence-Based Decision Making

Indonesia faces a paradox of being data-rich but insight-poor, with fragmented public sector data hindering effective policy and crisis mitigation. While the government pushes for integrated analytics through initiatives like Satu Data Indonesia, the private sector is rapidly leveraging data-driven strategies to significantly boost customer acquisition, operational efficiency, and profitability.

From Used Cooking Oil to Aromatherapy Candles: Sales Proceeds Help Fund Clean Water Access

A community empowerment programme in Bogor, West Java, is converting used cooking oil into aromatherapy candles to tackle environmental waste and fund water purification. Initiated by a former scholarship recipient, the project involves local PKK women's groups in the entire production and sales process. The proceeds are specifically allocated to provide water filters for villages facing clean water shortages.

China Retaliates Against US, Trump Aide's Response Unexpected

China has begun retaliating against US technology restrictions, but Washington shows no signs of easing and is expected to increase pressure on Chinese tech supply chains. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), under Trump ally Brendan Carr, has emerged as a key instrument, banning imports of certain Chinese drones, routers, and inverters, and moving to block Chinese labs from testing electronics for the US market. Beijing has responded with its own export controls and sanctions, though the FCC claims its actions are global and not country-specific.

China Strikes Back, US Response Unexpected

China has retaliated against US technology restrictions by tightening drone export controls and sanctioning American firms, while Washington signals it will not ease pressure. The FCC has emerged as a key instrument in the Trump administration's aggressive tech policy towards Beijing, with further measures targeting Chinese data centre components under consideration.

Jakarta to Shift Thousand Islands Transport Management to TransJakarta, Embrace Traditional Boats

The Jakarta provincial government plans to transfer the management of public transport to the Thousand Islands from the Transportation Agency to PT Transportasi Jakarta (TransJakarta) by 2027. Governor Pramono Anung cited TransJakarta's proven experience and transparent management as key reasons for the shift, aiming to integrate sea and land transport services. The transition will involve drafting new regulations and incorporating traditional boat operators to ensure inclusive and improved service standards.

BMKG Forecasts Rain in Major Cities, Warns of Dry Conditions in South Sumatra Due to El Niño

The Indonesian Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has forecast rain in several major cities including Medan and Jayapura, while warning that the El Niño phenomenon is causing increasingly dry conditions in South Sumatra. The agency noted that convergence zones are increasing rain cloud formation in parts of the country, but the strengthening El Niño and Indian Ocean Dipole are suppressing rainfall in other regions. The public has been urged to remain vigilant for potential heavy rain, lightning, and strong winds.

Prosecutors Indict Former Special Staffer Gus Alex for Rp 93 Billion Personal Enrichment

Former Special Staffer to the Minister of Religious Affairs, Ishfah Abidal Aziz, known as Gus Alex, has been indicted for allegedly enriching himself by Rp 93 billion. Prosecutors from the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) detailed that the funds were received as fees for expediting the 2023 and 2024 Hajj pilgrimages. The alleged corruption caused state losses totalling Rp 622 billion.

Institutional Transformation Deemed Crucial, IAW Reveals Reasoning

Indonesian Audit Watch (IAW) has proposed three institutional models to strengthen the Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC), including the creation of an Indonesian Customs and Excise Authority (OKCI). The options range from reinforcing the existing directorate under the Ministry of Finance to establishing a fully independent body reporting directly to the President. IAW emphasised that any model requires thorough legal and governance review before implementation.

Airlangga, Purbaya, OJK and LPS Back Destry Damayanti as Sole BI Governor Candidate

Senior Indonesian officials have voiced strong support for Destry Damayanti, the sole candidate proposed by President Prabowo Subianto to become the next Governor of Bank Indonesia. Key figures, including Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto and Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, cited her extensive experience as Senior Deputy Governor and her proven ability to coordinate across financial institutions. The heads of the OJK and LPS also endorsed her, expressing confidence that her appointment would ensure smooth cooperation within the Financial System Stability Committee.

China Blocks Manus AI Acquisition, Meta Cancels Rp35 Trillion Deal

Meta Platforms has fully cancelled its US$2 billion acquisition of AI startup Manus after Beijing blocked the deal on national security grounds. The move highlights the deepening technological decoupling between the United States and China, particularly in the strategic artificial intelligence sector. Manus, originally founded in China but now based in Singapore, will delete certain user data and operate independently again.

Megawati urges Bamusi to become an organisation that unites the people

PDI-P Chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri has called on the party's Islamic wing, Baitul Muslimin Indonesia (Bamusi), to serve as a unifying force for the community. The directive was given during the inauguration of the new Bamusi leadership in Jakarta. The organisation, founded in 2007, was previously led by the late Prof. Hamka Hak until his passing in 2023.

Mob Burns Seven Government Offices in Papua's Puncak Regency Over Village Fund Dispute

A mob in Ilaga, Puncak Regency, Central Papua, set fire to seven government buildings, including the regent's office and local parliament, on Tuesday night. The violence was reportedly triggered by dissatisfaction with the distribution of village funds. Authorities have since deployed security personnel and report that the situation is now under control.

Airlangga Urges Issuers to Strengthen Performance to Maintain Market Confidence

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has called on Indonesian listed companies to enhance their performance, governance, and transparency to sustain market confidence and support national economic stability. Speaking at the 2026 AEI members' meeting, he highlighted the role of the Debottlenecking Task Force in resolving business obstacles. The Indonesian Issuers Association (AEI) also announced a three-year focus on reinforcing investor trust through improved fundamentals and advocacy.

Inauguration of 52 School Principals in Mataram Delayed Due to Shortage of School Supervisors

The inauguration of 52 new school principals in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, has been postponed because the city lacks sufficient school supervisors. The local education department is awaiting a ministerial regulation from the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education to integrate management systems before appointing supervisors, a prerequisite for the principal appointments. Officials fear that promoting principals before supervisors are formally installed could jeopardise their administrative rights, including certification payments.

Riau Police Win National Food Security Championship, Excelling in Six Categories

The Riau Regional Police (Polda Riau) has been named the overall champion in Cluster 3 of the Indonesian National Police's 2026 Food Security Programme. The award, presented by the National Police Chief, recognises the force's top performance across six categories, including corn production, Bulog absorption, media management, and innovation. The achievement highlights the collaborative efforts between the police, local government, and farming communities to strengthen national food resilience.

North Korea Fires Ballistic Missile into Sea of Japan Amid Rising Tensions

North Korea launched a ballistic missile towards the East Sea on Wednesday, according to South Korea's military. The launch occurred ahead of planned joint military exercises between South Korea and the United States, which Pyongyang has condemned as provocative. The action adds to a series of weapons tests this year and follows North Korean criticism of Japan's latest defence white paper.

Health Minister Urges 'Sekolah Rakyat' Students to Brush Teeth and Exercise

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin visited Sekolah Rakyat Rintisan 4 in Bogor Regency, urging students to maintain dental hygiene and stay active. Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf noted that 49% of students initially had dental problems, but their health is improving. The school is a government initiative to provide education for out-of-school children, including street children, following President Prabowo's directive.

Israel Demolishes Home of Palestinian Killed in Clashes

The Israeli military has demolished the family home of a Palestinian man killed during violent clashes in July. The demolition, which local officials described as involving a large military convoy, occurred just over two weeks after the incident. The military stated the action was a proactive measure against terrorism, while the operation was noted by Israeli media for its unprecedented speed.

Police Investigate Alleged Blasphemy over Qur'an Memorisation Challenge at Music Festival

Police are investigating a case of alleged blasphemy after a liquor brand offered a Qur'an memorisation challenge during a music festival in North Jakarta. The incident, which involved a woman reciting verses in exchange for alcohol, has drawn widespread condemnation from the Governor of Jakarta and the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI). An advocate has filed a police report against five parties, including the event organiser, the brand owner, and the MCs, under the criminal code.

Political Roundup: Incentives for Housewives Proposed, Government Guarantees No PPPK Layoffs

A series of political developments unfolded, including a proposal by a lawmaker to provide government incentives for housewives to recognise their caregiving role in human development. Separately, the government has assured that no contract-based civil servants (PPPK) will be laid off, with three schemes being prepared to ensure their salaries are paid. Other highlights include the inauguration of a new PDIP youth wing leadership and a lawmaker's condemnation of an alcohol promotion allegedly using Quranic verses.

Indonesia's Capital Market Value Nears Rp10,000 Trillion, Airlangga Reveals Major Challenges

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto announced that Indonesia's capital market capitalisation has reached nearly Rp9,897 trillion, with 28.9 million investors recorded as of June 2026. The government is now shifting its focus from expanding the number of investors and listed companies to improving market quality, liquidity, and investor confidence. Key challenges include strengthening the pipeline of quality initial public offerings and enhancing corporate governance and transparency.

How Much Does a Car Insurance Claim Cost? Here Are the Details and Examples

When making a car insurance claim in Indonesia, policyholders are typically required to pay a mandatory excess, or 'own risk', as stipulated by the Financial Services Authority (OJK). The minimum excess is set at IDR 300,000 per incident, but the actual cost depends on the specific policy, type of coverage, and any extensions such as flood protection. Understanding the policy's terms, exclusions, and using approved repair shops are key to avoiding unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.