Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 12 August 2026

Showing 151-200 of 1,433 articles

Tram Line Connecting Bali’s Kuta And Canggu Set To Improve Tourist Transportation

The Badung Regency Government is advancing plans for a tram line connecting Kuta and Canggu, in collaboration with state-owned railway company PT KAI, to alleviate chronic traffic congestion. The project will feature a dedicated rail corridor integrated with a new 24-metre-wide road and a park-and-ride system at Kuta Central Parking. Officials believe the modern public transport network will significantly enhance both mobility for residents and the quality of tourism in Bali's most popular coastal destinations.

Polda Metro Jaya Elevates Sutrimo Death Case to Investigation Stage

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police have formally upgraded the death of Sutrimo to a criminal investigation, marked by an exhumation and autopsy to probe suspected foul play. The case was transferred to Jakarta after the family reported inconsistencies surrounding his death in Kebayoran Baru. Authorities are awaiting forensic results, including toxicology tests, to determine the next legal steps.

Digital payments increasingly integrated into consumer experience: Visa

Visa Indonesia highlights a shift towards seamless, mobile-first digital payments embedded within consumer journeys, moving beyond simple cashless transactions. The trend is driven by demand for cross-border capabilities and is supported by rapid growth in QRIS and mobile transactions, according to Bank Indonesia data. Security innovations such as biometrics and AI-driven agentic commerce are being developed alongside this integration to ensure safe, efficient transactions.

West Jakarta Intensifies Free Health Check-Ups to Reach 46% Coverage Target

The West Jakarta Health Sub-agency is intensifying its mobile free health check-up programme (CKG) to achieve a 46 per cent population coverage target by the end of 2026. As of today, 26.16 per cent of residents, or 671,000 people, have accessed the service. Officials are urging greater public participation, noting the programme includes comprehensive screenings for tuberculosis, hypertension, diabetes, cancer risk factors, and chronic lung disease.

Immigration DG Responds to Viral Video of Israeli Nationals in Bali

Indonesia's Directorate General of Immigration has addressed the online controversy surrounding Israeli citizens in Bali, clarifying that their entry is possible either through a strict multi-agency visa process or by using dual citizenship passports from other countries. The agency confirmed that while very few visas are issued directly to Israeli nationals, some have entered using European passports, prompting public scrutiny from pro-Palestinian activists.

Komnas Urges Public Officials to Adopt Gender Perspective in Public Communication

The National Commission on Violence Against Women (Komnas Perempuan) has called on all public officials to apply a fair and equal gender perspective in policy and public communication. The statement follows a minister's controversial request to replace a female regional coordinator with a man, citing the job's physical demands. Komnas Perempuan argues such remarks reinforce harmful stereotypes and hinder women's equal opportunities in leadership.

Pasuruan Regency Deploys Six Fire Engines to Combat Bromo Tengger Semeru Forest Fire

The Pasuruan Regency Government has deployed six fire engines and water tankers to manually extinguish a forest fire in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park (TNBTS) that has been burning for eleven days. The blaze has spread from Bukit Dingklik to the Bukit Cinta tourist area, with ground crews and water-bombing helicopters working to prevent it from reaching other vital sites like Bukit Kingkong and Puncak Penanjakan. Officials cited the mountainous terrain and limited water supply as major challenges in the firefighting effort.

ITMG posts net profit of 110 million US dollars in first half of 2026

Indonesian coal miner PT Indo Tambangraya Megah Tbk (ITMG) reported a net profit of 110 million US dollars for the first half of 2026, supported by higher sales volumes and average selling prices. Revenue rose 9 percent year-on-year to 1 billion US dollars, while production volumes dipped slightly compared to the same period last year. The company also noted increased royalty payments to the government, reflecting the uptick in sales.

Sky Route Returns to Normal After TransJakarta Bus Breakdown Causes Gridlock

A TransJakarta bus breakdown on the Corridor 13 elevated 'sky route' near Petukangan, South Jakarta, caused severe delays and forced passengers to walk along the track. The operator confirmed services on routes 13B and L13E resumed normal operations at around 8:42 PM local time after the obstruction was cleared.

Police say Tangerang murder suspect was under the influence of alcohol

Jakarta police have revealed that a man arrested for the rape and murder of a woman in Tangerang, Banten, was intoxicated at the time of the attack. The suspect, identified as KF, was able to enter the victim's rented accommodation because the door was unlocked. Authorities are continuing to investigate the full motive and circumstances of the crime.

500 Land Convoy to Palestine Participants, Including Indonesian Volunteer, Stranded at Turkey-Iraq Border

Over 500 participants of the Land Convoy to Palestine, including an Indonesian activist, are stranded at the Ibrahim Khalil border crossing between Turkey and Iraq. The group, which departed from Sarajevo in July, has been denied entry into Iraq, reportedly due to political pressure on the Baghdad government. The convoy aims to deliver humanitarian aid to the West Bank and highlight the ongoing Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories.

Indonesia-South Korea Photo and Archive Exhibition Opens in Jakarta

A joint photo and archive exhibition titled 'My Wish, Our Wish: Road to Freedom' has opened at the ANTARA Heritage Center in Jakarta. The exhibition commemorates the 150th birthday of South Korean independence activist Kim Koo and features 21 related photographs, alongside 18 photos of Indonesia's Proclamation of Independence, a replica of the proclamation manuscript, and a poem by Chairil Anwar. The event was inaugurated by Indonesia's Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, and runs until 31 August.

Pegadaian Medan Promotes Tring App to Simplify Customer Services

PT Pegadaian's Medan regional office is intensifying the use of its Tring digital application to enhance customer access to services, including digital transactions. The state-owned pawnbroker has recorded 427,800 Tring users in the region, with active customers rising 36.3 per cent annually to 1.79 million. The company is also strengthening app security while urging customers to protect their personal data and view the recent dip in gold prices as an investment opportunity.

Pakistan Rejects Netanyahu's Stance, Insists Palestinian Statehood Is Rooted in International Law

Pakistan has firmly rejected Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's opposition to a Palestinian state, asserting that Palestinian sovereignty is enshrined in international law and UN resolutions. Islamabad also criticised Israel's refusal to withdraw from Gaza, calling it a serious setback to peace commitments. Pakistan reiterated its consistent support for an independent Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.

Finance Ministry: APBN-APBD synergy crucial for Bengkulu's economic stimulus

The Ministry of Finance has underscored the need for synchronised management of state and regional budgets to stimulate economic growth in Bengkulu. Officials stressed that available funds must be matched by accelerated project execution and billing to effectively boost the local economy. A public consultation forum was also highlighted as a key mechanism for improving services and gathering stakeholder feedback.

Lawyer Stands Trial for Alleged Extortion of Young Entrepreneur in Central Jakarta

A lawyer, Bangun Paulus Tudungta, faced his first hearing at the Central Jakarta District Court on charges of extorting young businessman Vinson Leo Carlius. Prosecutors allege the defendant demanded hundreds of millions of rupiah from the victim under threat of reporting him to the police for theft. The defence has challenged the indictment as unclear, with the next session scheduled to hear their formal objection.

Digital Literacy Key to Combating Human Trafficking on Social Media, Says Indonesian Official

Rahayu Saraswati, Deputy Chair of Commission VII of the Indonesian House of Representatives, has warned that human traffickers are increasingly using social media to target victims. Speaking at a seminar in Mataram, she urged the public to be more critical of online job offers and communications to avoid exploitation. The call comes as the National Anti-Human Trafficking Network reports handling around 300 cases in 2025, with victims as young as 13.

Forensic Team Awaits Lab Results to Determine Cause of Death of Sutrimo

The Greater Jakarta Metropolitan Police forensic team is conducting laboratory tests to determine the exact cause of death of Sutrimo after an autopsy and exhumation found no visible signs of sharp force trauma. The examination, which involves samples from the entire body, is expected to take up to three weeks. The family has urged the public to refrain from speculation while the scientific investigation is ongoing.

Reading of Proclamation Text by 1,000 Persons with Disabilities in Malioboro Sets Muri Record

A mass reading of the Indonesian Proclamation of Independence text in sign language by 1,000 persons with disabilities in Yogyakarta has set a new record with the Indonesian World Records Museum (Muri). Officials emphasised that the event's significance lay not in the record itself, but in affirming that the values of nationhood and the spirit of independence must be accessible to all citizens without exception. The initiative was praised as a powerful message of humanity and equal participation, with hopes it will inspire similar inclusive efforts across Indonesia.

Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman to Meet Komnas Perempuan

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman is scheduled to meet with the National Commission on Violence Against Women (Komnas Perempuan) following controversy over his request to replace a regional nutrition official. The request was criticised for alleged gender stereotyping, but the ministry insists the matter has been clarified and the meeting is merely a friendly visit. The original dispute stemmed from the official's failure to ensure local nutrition centres purchased eggs directly from protesting farmers.

Whistleblower Exposes 'Hellish' Working Conditions at Tech Giant

Claire Stapleton, a former Google communications specialist who led the 2018 global walkout, has detailed a toxic work culture in her new memoir. She describes how the company's famed 'Don't be evil' motto faded as bureaucracy swelled and empathy was treated as a weakness. Her account aims to dismantle the tech industry's heroic self-image and encourage greater scrutiny of corporate power.

Riau Police Unveil New Strategy to Bolster Food Security Beyond Security Duties

The Riau Regional Police (Polda Riau) has expanded its role into food security, achieving top honours in the National Police's 2026 Food Security Programme awards. The force excelled in multiple categories, including maize land expansion, production, and public communication management. The initiative, conducted with local government and farming groups, aims to deliver tangible benefits to the community.

Law Enforcement Process and Wealth Transparency of Public Officials Under Student Scrutiny

Students from Indraprasta PGRI University have urged the public to monitor law enforcement processes and strengthen critical analysis of governance in Indonesia. During a public discussion, participants highlighted concerns over the handling of a case linked to a figure named Febrie, questioning the legal process and institutional involvement. The forum also stressed the need for transparency regarding the wealth of public officials as a key element of state accountability.

173 People Accounted for in KMP Putri Yasmin Fire, Search for Victims Continues

Authorities have so far accounted for 173 individuals following the fire on the KMP Putri Yasmin ferry in the Lombok Strait. The Indonesian government, led by the Transport Minister, has stated that the data is provisional and may increase as search and rescue operations continue. A call centre is being established for families to report missing relatives who may have been on board.

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi to Revamp Soekarno-Hatta Road, Enlists Bank BJB for Footbridges

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has announced immediate plans to improve safety on Bandung's accident-prone Soekarno-Hatta Road. The provincial government will install public street lighting along the entire 18.4-kilometre stretch within a month. To address the lack of pedestrian crossings, Mulyadi will seek corporate social responsibility funding from regional development bank BJB to construct footbridges this year.

Dissecting Efforts to Chase Economic Growth Targets by Year-End

Indonesia's economy grew by 5.29% year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026, surpassing many G20 nations despite a slowdown from the previous quarter. Bank Indonesia projects full-year growth between 4.9% and 5.7%, with household consumption remaining the primary driver. CNBC Indonesia will host a discussion with BNI's Chief Economist to analyse the supporting factors and challenges for the remainder of the year.

Valuation of PT Adaro Andalan Indonesia Tbk as a Basis for Investment Decisions

A study has estimated the intrinsic value of PT Adaro Andalan Indonesia Tbk (AADI) using the Residual Income Model, finding its shares to be undervalued compared to the market price. The research, conducted as a thesis at Gadjah Mada University, calculated an intrinsic value of approximately US$0.60 per share, exceeding both the fair value and the prevailing market price. The findings suggest that the company's valuation is primarily driven by its profitability, book value of equity, and exposure to systematic risk.

Economic and Emotional Vulnerability Exploited in Digital-Era Human Trafficking

Indonesia's National Network Against Human Trafficking warns that economic hardship and emotional fragility are key vulnerabilities exploited by traffickers in the digital age. The network's chair highlighted how online interactions are used to build trust and lure victims with false promises of work or marriage. The organisation handled around 300 cases in 2025, with victims as young as 13.

Indonesia Assessed to Have Great Potential for eVTOL Adoption

An executive from AutoFlight believes Indonesia's archipelagic geography and large population present a significant opportunity for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The technology is seen as a more cost-efficient and quieter alternative to conventional helicopters for inter-island travel. The company is collaborating with Indonesia's Whitesky Aviation Group to develop the air transport technology.

Government Targets E20 Fuel Blend Implementation by 2029

The Indonesian government is aiming to implement a 20 per cent ethanol blend (E20) in fuel by 2029 to bolster national energy security. The plan involves expanding domestic feedstock sources such as sugarcane and cassava, including utilising molasses from food estate projects. Officials also confirmed that subsidised fuel prices will be maintained until the end of the year.

Indonesia's Energy Transition Requires Investment and Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration

Indonesia's energy transition demands significant investment and collaboration across multiple sectors to turn policy targets into tangible projects. The upcoming Indonesia Sustainable Energy Week (ISEW) 2026 aims to bridge the gap between policy, investment, and technology. The forum will focus on mobilising private sector finance and fostering partnerships to accelerate the country's renewable energy development.

Governor Pramono Clarifies DPR's Stairless JPO Was Built by PUPR Ministry

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has clarified that a stairless pedestrian bridge (JPO) near the DPR building was originally constructed by the Ministry of Public Works and Housing. He affirmed the Jakarta administration's commitment to maintaining necessary public facilities while also planning to evaluate and dismantle JPOs that are no longer functional. The governor cited a recent decision to remove a controversial JPO on Jalan HR Rasuna Said after a direct inspection revealed it was no longer needed.

IDX Prepares for Ownership Changes Amid Investor Interest in Demutualization

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) is preparing for a shift in its ownership structure as part of a mandated demutualization process, with several potential investors expressing interest. IDX President Director Jeffrey Hendrik confirmed discussions are underway with the Financial Services Authority (OJK) and existing shareholders, ensuring the exchange's independence will not be compromised. State-owned entities, including Danantara Indonesia, are among those preparing to acquire stakes, with the process expected to be finalised in the coming months.

South Korea pushes for stronger ties to RI through cultural exchange

South Korea's Deputy Ambassador to Indonesia, Chung Hae-Kwan, has called for expanded cultural cooperation between the two nations, citing their shared history of independence struggles. Speaking at a joint photo exhibition in Jakarta, he highlighted the proximity of their independence days and the potential to build on existing cultural ties, including the popularity of K-pop. The push follows the elevation of bilateral relations to a Special Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with Chung noting the relationship has yet to reach its full potential.

Home Affairs Minister urges Forkopimda to safeguard economic growth and regional stability

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has called on regional leadership coordination forums across Sumatra to strengthen synergy in maintaining stability and boosting economic growth. He highlighted that Indonesia's economic growth stands at 5.29 per cent and stressed the need for regular coordination to address local issues effectively. The minister also warned that unmanaged inflation, particularly in food prices, could directly impact public security and political stability.

Bulog distributes 762 tonnes of rice aid to 25,432 residents in Kolaka

State logistics agency Bulog has commenced the distribution of 762.96 tonnes of rice to 25,432 beneficiaries in Kolaka Regency, Southeast Sulawesi, covering the July to September 2026 allocation. Each recipient receives 30 kilograms of rice in a single distribution, intended to ease economic burdens and stabilise local rice prices. The programme is part of a broader government effort to maintain food stability and control inflationary pressures.

IRGC: Iran Ready for Protracted Conflict with the US

A senior adviser to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has stated the country is prepared for a prolonged conflict with the United States to achieve full security. The statement follows a collapsed ceasefire and the subsequent closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran, prompting a US naval commitment and renewed economic blockade.

Bank Mandiri Records Rp25.63 Trillion in KUR Disbursement up to July 2026

PT Bank Mandiri (Persero) Tbk has disbursed Rp25.63 trillion in People's Business Credit (KUR) up to July 2026, achieving 62.5 per cent of its annual target. The state-owned bank also reported that 56,043 micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) debtors successfully graduated to higher financing schemes during the same period. The lender emphasised its commitment to empowering MSMEs through financing, digitalisation, and mentorship to strengthen the national economy.

Merdeka More Affordable: Bright Gas Offers Discounts Up to Rp8,100 per Cylinder Until End of August

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga is offering discounts on Bright Gas LPG refills as part of its 'Semarak Merdeka MyPertamina' promotion. Customers can save up to Rp8,100 per 12 kg cylinder and Rp4,050 per 5.5 kg cylinder from 15 to 23 August 2026. The promotion is available at Bright Stores and online via Klik Indomaret to celebrate Indonesia's Independence Day.

Maluku Police Chief Iptu La Ode Tests Positive for Drugs, Faces Dismissal

A police chief in Maluku, Iptu La Ode Muhammad Yusdiman, has tested positive for methamphetamine and amphetamine following a urine test. The Maluku Regional Police have initiated internal disciplinary proceedings and recommended he be placed in special detention for 20 days. The case is also being referred to the narcotics directorate for potential criminal investigation.

Victim of Assault Involving Bekasi Regency Council Member Rejects Restorative Justice

Fendy, the victim of an alleged assault involving a Bekasi Regency council member, has refused an offer of restorative justice during a court hearing. The victim stated that attempts at a familial resolution were too late, as he had expected a direct apology from the perpetrators from the outset. His legal team insists the trial must continue to fully uncover the facts of the alleged mob attack, which they say involved more than three individuals.

Bandung Regency Government Confirms Readiness to Host FIFA ASEAN Cup

The Bandung Regency Government has confirmed the readiness of Si Jalak Harupat Stadium to host the FIFA ASEAN Cup in 2026. Officials are ensuring all facilities meet FIFA standards, leveraging experience from hosting the U-17 World Cup. The event is expected to boost the local economy through tourism, hospitality, and MICE sectors.

Minister: President to Announce 8% Interest Rate for PNM Mekaar

President Prabowo Subianto is set to personally announce a significant reduction in the interest rate for PNM Mekaar microfinance customers from 20% to 8%. The policy, finalised in coordination with economic ministries and Danantara, aims to ease the financial burden on low-income borrowers. The move is described as a concrete step to strengthen access to financing for the people's economy.

House Speaker Puan Maharani Pledges More Solemn 2026 Annual Session After Last Year's Festivities

House Speaker Puan Maharani has assured that the 2026 MPR Annual Session and the DPR-DPD Joint Session will be conducted with greater solemnity, following public scrutiny of legislators' behaviour last year. She clarified that last year's dancing occurred after the formal proceedings had concluded and was an expression of joy for Independence Day. The session, scheduled for 14 August 2026, will feature President Prabowo Subianto's performance report and the presentation of the 2027 State Budget Bill.

From the Banks of the Kuantan River, the Merah Putih Expedition Ignites the Spirit of Unity

The Riau Regional Police conducted the Merah Putih Presisi Expedition in Pulau Bayur Village, featuring tree planting, flag hoisting, and social aid distribution to foster national unity ahead of Independence Day. Senior Commissioner Syahrial M Said emphasised that the initiative was a reminder to honour independence heroes and fill the meaning of freedom through positive community activities. The event also included a national dialogue and the provision of sports and security equipment to strengthen synergy between the police, military, government, and residents.

Zulhas Accelerates Disbursement of Rp 253.1 Billion REDD+ GCF Funds to 10 Provinces

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan is pushing for the swift distribution of Rp 253.1 billion in results-based payments from the Green Climate Fund to ten Indonesian provinces. The funding, part of the REDD+ programme, rewards Indonesia's success in reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation. The government aims to ensure the environmental financing translates into tangible benefits for communities, extending beyond forestry to sectors like food security.

Purbaya Denies Tax Crackdown on Boarding House Businesses: Collection as Usual

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has dismissed public concerns over a new tax on boarding house operators, stating that income tax on rental properties is standard procedure. His remarks follow earlier government comments about expanding the tax base, which had sparked fears of a new levy. The tax office has clarified that a 10% final income tax on property rental income has been in effect since 2018 under existing regulations.

Jokowi Confirmed to Attend 2026 MPR Annual Session in Senayan

Former President Joko Widodo has confirmed his attendance at the 2026 MPR Annual Session after receiving a formal invitation at his Solo residence. The session, scheduled for 14 August 2026, will feature a state address by President Prabowo Subianto. The invitation is part of a protocol to include all former presidents and vice presidents in the state event.

Khofifah Receives LVRI Star, Reminds That Today's Struggle Is No Longer About Bearing Arms

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa was awarded the Bintang Legiun Veteran Republik Indonesia (LVRI) during the 2026 East Java Provincial Veterans Day commemoration. She emphasised that the award is a mandate to continue the veterans' fighting spirit, adapting it to modern challenges such as poverty, disinformation, and social division. Khofifah called for a contemporary interpretation of national defence, urging citizens to contribute through their professions and uphold unity.

Central Java Deputy Governor Calls for Equitable Distribution of Renewable Energy

Central Java Deputy Governor Taj Yasin Maimoen has urged for the equitable development of renewable energy across the province to bolster energy security and support economic growth. He stressed that industrial expansion must be balanced with environmental sustainability and community welfare. The province has already surpassed its renewable energy mix target, reaching 22.33 per cent in 2025.