Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 12 August 2026

Showing 201-250 of 1,433 articles

Telkom Indonesia Bosses Reportedly Fly to US to Meet SEC Over Fraud Allegations

Top executives of state-owned telecommunications giant PT Telkom Indonesia (TLKM) have reportedly travelled to the United States to address the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regarding alleged fraud in the company's financial statements from 2014 to 2021. The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) is also monitoring the case, having held a hearing with management in April 2026. While Telkom claims the 140 transactions lacking economic substance are not quantitatively material, auditors have flagged them as qualitatively material due to indications of employee misconduct.

Chery Secures 3,500 Orders at GIIAS 2026, Chery Q Accounts for Half of Sales

Chery Indonesia recorded a 62.56 per cent surge in vehicle orders at the GIIAS 2026 motor show, collecting 3,500 SPK compared to 2,153 the previous year. The newly launched Chery Q electric model dominated, contributing 1,750 orders and accounting for over two-thirds of all test drive sessions. The company views the results as a key indicator of growing consumer interest in electric vehicles within the Indonesian market.

Strong IT Foundation Key to Optimising AI Investment Returns, Says Expert

Adopting artificial intelligence does not automatically guarantee profit or efficiency gains for Indonesian companies, with only 10% of CEOs successfully leveraging AI for both revenue growth and cost reduction. Technology experts emphasise that a robust IT foundation, quality data, and proper governance are critical to translating AI investments into measurable business outcomes. Companies are advised to focus on foundational readiness and relevant use cases rather than adopting AI indiscriminately.

Golkar Weighs Proposal for Regional Elections Without Deputy, Citing Leadership Conflicts

The Golkar Party is considering a proposal to elect regional heads without deputies to prevent conflicts between the two offices, a phenomenon observed in many regions. Party Secretary-General Muhammad Sarmuji stated that the option is being discussed and would require revisions to the Regional Election Law. The proposal echoes an earlier suggestion from a PKB legislator who argued that deputies should be appointed by the elected head to avoid them being used merely as vote-getters.

Behind the Train Journey: KAI Manages Rp1.23 Trillion in Spare Parts Inventory

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) is managing a net inventory of spare parts and materials valued at Rp1.23 trillion to support the maintenance of its rolling stock and infrastructure. The state-owned railway operator is increasingly adopting a data-driven lifecycle approach to asset management to ensure reliability. The inventory supports over 12,800 units of rolling stock, including locomotives, electric rail trains, and freight wagons.

Finance Minister to Coordinate with Transport Ministry to Resolve Port Tariff Disparities

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has pledged to coordinate with the Ministry of Transportation to address significant disparities in Lift On/Lift Off (LoLo) service tariffs at empty container depots. Business users report that charges outside port areas are up to Rp 400,000 higher per container than those inside, citing a lack of specific regulations governing tariff structures. The government plans to investigate standardising tariffs and review regulations for foreign-owned depots to improve business certainty and ease pressure on the rupiah.

KAI Transports 1.36 Million Tonnes of Cement and Clinker to July 2026, Strengthening Industrial Supply Chain

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) transported 1.36 million tonnes of cement and clinker in the first seven months of 2026, representing 19.4% of its non-coal freight volume. The state-owned railway company generated Rp82.51 billion in revenue from these shipments, which are crucial for supporting construction material supply chains. KAI emphasised the role of rail freight in providing efficient, scheduled, and integrated logistics for major industrial players like Semen Baturaja and Semen Padang.

Pramono Responds to JPO in Front of DPR Lacking Stair Access

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has addressed concerns over a pedestrian bridge (JPO) in front of the DPR building that was built without stairs. He stated the bridge was constructed by the Ministry of Public Works and affirmed the city's commitment to maintaining useful pedestrian infrastructure while planning to remove obsolete ones.

Palembang City Government Holds Cheap Market to Welcome Independence Day

The Palembang city administration is organising a subsidised market across five districts to celebrate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The initiative aims to ease the financial burden on residents by offering staple goods at distributor prices. Officials also expect the programme to help control regional inflation and maintain purchasing power.

Pramono's Dilemma: The Cyclist Who is Reviewing the Removal of Bike Lanes

The Jakarta provincial government is evaluating the potential removal of dedicated bicycle lanes on the capital's main roads following public complaints about misuse by motorised vehicles. Governor Pramono Anung, himself a cyclist, is gathering input from cycling communities and transport bodies before making a final decision. Officials insist the review aims to improve safety and compliance with the legal mandate to facilitate cyclists, rather than discriminate against them.

Govt to reallocate part of Danantara SOE profits to State Budget

The Indonesian government plans to redirect a portion of Danantara's profits back into the state budget to build fiscal reserves and accelerate debt reduction, following a directive from President Prabowo Subianto. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated the policy reverses recent amendments that channelled all state enterprise dividends to Danantara, and will be implemented in phases starting this year. The move aims to enhance budget sustainability while managing the nation's debt, which stood at Rp10,293.69 trillion as of June 2026.

Cilegon City Government to Provide Inpatient Facilities at Every Community Health Centre

The Cilegon municipal administration is preparing inpatient facilities at all its community health centres (Puskesmas), beginning this year. Mayor Robinsar stated that while all Puskesmas already operate 24-hour emergency units, dedicated inpatient rooms are needed to serve residents requiring immediate care. A pilot project is being constructed at the Grogol Puskesmas, with a phased rollout to Purwakarta next year.

Thailand Makes School Safety a National Priority

Thailand's cabinet has elevated school safety to a national agenda following a mass shooting at a secondary school near Bangkok that killed nine people. The policy mandates all schools to establish protection centres, implement emergency plans, and enforce strict screening for weapons and dangerous items. The initiative also includes mental health support systems and long-term legislative frameworks to safeguard students and staff.

Puan Responds to Kaesang's Plan to Contest Same Electoral District in 2029 Legislative Election

House Speaker Puan Maharani has responded to plans by Kaesang Pangarep, the youngest son of President Jokowi, to run in the same Central Java electoral district in the 2029 legislative election. Puan stated that every political party has the right to field candidates in any district. The PSI party has indicated Kaesang's choice of the Solo area is based on familiarity, not a direct challenge to any specific party.

Agriculture Minister Gifts Graduating Student a Combine Harvester to Launch Agribusiness

Indonesia's Agriculture Minister, Andi Amran Sulaiman, has presented a combine harvester to a graduating orphan student at Surabaya State University as seed capital for a new agricultural enterprise. The initiative aims to inspire young entrepreneurs in the food sector by demonstrating that mechanisation offers lucrative business opportunities. The minister urged the recipient to use the machinery to provide harvesting services to local farmers, creating a self-sustaining economic asset.

INET and SIDI Launch JKT01 Data Centre to Strengthen Digital Infrastructure Portfolio

PT Sinergi Inti Andalan Prima Tbk (INET) and its subsidiary PT Sinergi Inti Data Indonesia (SIDI) have inaugurated the SIDI JKT01 Data Centre in South Jakarta. The new facility, located in the strategically connected Cyber 1 Building, aims to bolster the company's digital infrastructure services. The data centre will support customer needs for IT equipment placement, including servers and network devices, with a focus on service readiness and operational reliability.

Police Reveal Roles of Three Men in NTT Who Burned Owl Alive

Police in West Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, have detailed the roles of three men arrested for torturing and burning an owl alive. The sadistic act, which was recorded and posted on social media, occurred in Kampung Bajak on 7 August 2026. The suspects face legal consequences under Indonesia's wildlife protection laws.

Jakarta Fire Department Reveals Duren Sawit Frame Factory Has Caught Fire Four Times

A frame factory in Duren Sawit, East Jakarta, has experienced four separate fires, with the latest incident on Wednesday being the most severe. Officials have raised concerns about the factory's location within a densely populated residential area, adjacent to homes and a prayer room. Authorities are calling for a review of the factory's operating permit and demanding stricter fire safety measures from the owner.

Close US Ally Japan Urges Iran Not to Charge Fees in the Strait of Hormuz

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has pressed Iran to ensure free and uncharged navigation through the Strait of Hormuz during a call with President Masoud Pezeshkian. The appeal follows the effective closure of the vital trade route amid stalled US-Iran negotiations, which threatens Japan's crude oil supply. Takaichi also urged Tehran to resume nuclear talks with Washington and address the safety of alternative shipping lanes.

Venezuela and Israel Restore Ties After 17-Year 'Split', Reunited by the US?

Venezuela and Israel have agreed to restore consular services, marking a significant geopolitical shift for Caracas 17 years after severing ties over the Gaza conflict. The rapprochement follows Venezuela's recent strengthening of relations with Washington after the arrest of President Nicolás Maduro, which distanced the country from its historic alliance with Iran. The process began with an Israeli humanitarian delegation visiting after a deadly earthquake in June.

Transformation of Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers into MSMEs Hailed as Transformative Justice

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has endorsed a new presidential regulation that reclassifies online motorcycle taxi drivers as micro, small, and medium enterprises. The policy is viewed as a strategic move to strengthen the grassroots economy and provide financial inclusion for millions of informal workers. The regulation also mandates a new 8:92 revenue-sharing scheme, capping platform commissions at 8 per cent.

Witnesses Report Loud Explosion Before Frame Factory Fire in East Jakarta

A massive fire destroyed a frame factory in Duren Sawit, East Jakarta, early Wednesday morning. Local residents and a security guard reported hearing a loud explosion moments before the blaze erupted from the rear of the building. Firefighters deployed 25 units and 125 personnel to control the fire, which had previously occurred at the same location four times.

Minister Confirms Insurance Coverage for KMP Putri Yasmin Fire Victims

Transportation Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has confirmed that all victims of the KMP Putri Yasmin ferry fire will receive insurance compensation. Fatalities will be covered by life insurance from Jasa Raharja, while injured passengers will have their medical expenses guaranteed. The ferry caught fire in the early hours of Wednesday in the waters off Sekotong, West Lombok, with search and rescue teams still working to determine the cause and total number of people on board.

Indonesia and China Discuss Technology Transfer to Strengthen Industry

Indonesia is pushing for economic cooperation with China to extend beyond trade and investment, focusing on technology transfer and industrial capacity building. The matter was discussed during a bilateral meeting between Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto and Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao in Shanghai. A senior advisor emphasised that strategic investments must enhance domestic production capabilities and human resources, ensuring Indonesia evolves from a market into a hub for industry and innovation.

Frame Factory Fire in Duren Sawit, East Jakarta, Hindered by Scarce Water Sources

A major fire destroyed a frame factory in the densely populated Pondok Kelapa area of Duren Sawit, East Jakarta, in the early hours of Wednesday. Firefighters from Jakarta and Bekasi struggled to contain the blaze due to distant water sources and narrow access roads, eventually localising the fire after three hours. This marks the fourth fire recorded in the vicinity of the factory, raising serious concerns about safety in the residential area.

Pramono Responds to Intimidation of Journalists at Illegal Cilincing Dump Site

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has pledged to provide official escorts for journalists covering illegal waste processing sites in Cilincing, North Jakarta, following reports of intimidation. He emphasised that media coverage is essential to ensure transparency in the city's waste management reforms. The governor stated that law enforcement and public order officers would accompany reporters to prevent further harassment.

US Inflation Eases in July, Reducing Pressure on Fed to Raise Rates

US inflation showed signs of easing in July, with the Consumer Price Index rising just 0.1 per cent month-on-month, matching market expectations. The moderate data has reduced the likelihood of an imminent interest rate hike by the Federal Reserve, with market probabilities for a September increase falling to around 42 per cent. A continued decline in energy prices contributed to the cooling inflation, although the annual rate remains above the central bank's target.

Iran Announces Plan to Produce Ballistic Missiles Capable of Reaching the United States

Iran has unveiled plans to develop a ballistic missile with a range of up to 15,000 kilometres, potentially placing the United States within striking distance. A representative of the Supreme Leader disclosed the ambition, which analysts describe as a complex technological leap likely requiring North Korean assistance. The announcement marks a significant escalation in Iran's missile programme, which currently fields a maximum range of 4,000 kilometres.

Maluku Police Chief Dismisses Ambon Police Chief After Positive Drug Test

The Maluku Regional Police's internal affairs division is prosecuting a police chief in Ambon, identified as Iptu LOY, after a routine urine test confirmed the presence of methamphetamine and amphetamine. The officer has been placed in special confinement for 20 days and faces a professional ethics hearing for a serious violation. Police officials stressed there would be no cover-up, with the officer also facing criminal drug charges and potential dismissal.

Kediri Regency Partners with UGM to Boost Agricultural Value-Added

The Kediri Regency administration is collaborating with Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) to enhance the value of local agricultural commodities through post-harvest technology and processed product development. The initiative aims to address price volatility and seasonal production challenges, particularly for crops like chilli and mangoes. The partnership will involve technology transfer and community service programmes led by UGM's Department of Agricultural Industrial Technology.

BAZNAS Chairman Emphasises PUSDAI West Java's Role as a Community Driver

The Chairman of the National Amil Zakat Agency (BAZNAS) has called on the West Java Islamic Propagation Centre (PUSDAI) to strengthen its role as a catalyst for community movements. He highlighted the importance of optimising four key functions: facilitation, coordination, dynamism, and innovation. The remarks were made during the inauguration of new pavilions at the PUSDAI complex in Bandung.

TNI-Polri Redeploy Troops to Bolster Security for Independence Day in Papua

The Indonesian military and police are reinforcing security across several regions of Papua, with a focus on the highlands, ahead of the 81st Independence Day commemoration. The Commander of the Cenderawasih Regional Military Command stated that troop movements have been conducted in coordination with the Joint Operations Command to ensure the event proceeds safely. Authorities are implementing mitigation measures regardless of whether specific threats have been detected.

DIY's University Participation Rate Rises, Yet Economic Gap Persists

The university participation rate in the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY) has climbed to 46 per cent, but nearly a third of these students are economically vulnerable. A local legislator is urging the regional government to utilise the Special Autonomy Fund (Danais) to expand scholarship access and address teacher shortages. He stressed the need for comprehensive data to ensure budget interventions are accurately targeted.

Minister Erick: President Prabowo's Commitment to Long-Term National Training Proves Effective

Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir has stated that President Prabowo Subianto's commitment to long-term athlete development is yielding results, backed by sustainable budget allocations. The government has significantly increased funding for the national training programme, including a boost to Rp222 billion for the upcoming Asian Games. Erick also stressed the importance of transparency and accountability, warning against any misuse of funds or deductions from athletes' entitlements.

Minister Applauds Swift Evacuation of KMP Putri Yasmin in Lombok Strait

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has commended the rapid response of the joint search and rescue team following a fire aboard the KMP Putri Yasmin in the Lombok Strait. The vessel, which had been declared seaworthy prior to departure, was travelling from Bali to Lombok when the incident occurred. While 172 people were evacuated safely, one female passenger tragically died, and the KNKT will conduct a full investigation into the cause of the fire.

Vance Urges Zelenskyy to Halt Strikes on CPC Oil Facilities

US Vice President JD Vance reportedly asked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to cease attacks on Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) facilities in the Black Sea, citing concerns over oil market stability and harm to American business interests. Kyiv has since agreed to stop targeting non-Russian tankers and CPC infrastructure, provided the vessels are not under Ukrainian sanctions or carrying Russian crude. The CPC pipeline is a critical export route, handling roughly 80 percent of Kazakhstan's crude oil shipments.

Pramono Ensures Journalists Covering Illegal Waste Sites Receive Police Protection

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has guaranteed that journalists reporting on illegal waste processing sites will be accompanied by law enforcement. The assurance follows reports of intimidation against media crews covering the issue in Cilincing. Pramono emphasised that transparent media coverage is essential for the government's efforts to reform waste management.

Elderly Couple in Bantul Loses 55 Grams of Gold After Fake BPJS Massage Scam, Four Suspects Hunted

An elderly couple in Bantul, Yogyakarta, was robbed of 55 grams of gold jewellery and Rp 5 million in cash after being deceived by women posing as BPJS health workers offering free massage therapy. One suspect, the driver of the group, has been arrested in Central Java, while police are pursuing the remaining four members of the gang. Authorities stated the crime was economically motivated, and the arrested suspect faces up to five years in prison under Indonesia's new Criminal Code.

Paskibraka Extends Training Hours at the Palace

The Minister of State Secretary, Prasetyo Hadi, announced that the national flag-hoisting squad (Paskibraka) has been granted additional training time to adapt to the conditions at the Presidential Palace. The adjustment is necessary due to the thicker grass on the palace grounds, which affects the members' technical movements. Prasetyo also expressed pride that a participant from the government's 'Sekolah Rakyat' programme has successfully passed the national selection, highlighting equal opportunities for all Indonesian youth.

Australian PM Criticised for 'Takaichi Melon' Joke

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has sparked controversy after making remarks about melons given as a gift by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, which were widely interpreted as a crude sexual innuendo. Opposition lawmakers have called for a formal apology, though Albanese has rejected the accusations. The Japanese government has indicated it accepts Australian assurances that the comments were not as reported, viewing the informal dinner as having helped build personal trust between the leaders.

BI: Urban Digifest Targets Rp6 Billion in Transactions

Bank Indonesia aims for a 10 per cent increase in transactions at the Urban Digifest X Sulut Coffee Fest 2026, targeting Rp6 billion. The event, designed to boost local MSMEs and the regional economy, is expected to attract 60,000 visitors. The festival carries the theme of blending tradition with innovation to promote North Sulawesi's cultural and culinary identity.

Jakarta Provincial Government Raises Regional Bond Value to IDR 5.6 Trillion

The Jakarta Provincial Government has officially increased its proposed regional bond issuance to IDR 5.6 trillion to fund strategic infrastructure projects. The bonds will be issued in two phases, with IDR 4.2 trillion in 2027 and IDR 1.3 trillion in 2028, as part of a strategy to manage the regional budget's financial burden. The funds are earmarked for priority projects addressing congestion, flooding, healthcare, and education, but will not be used for land acquisition.

Google Undergoes Total Transformation, Search Button Disappears Replaced by AI Features

Google has begun testing a radical redesign of its homepage, removing the iconic 'Search' button and replacing it with direct shortcuts to AI tools. The change, observed in early August 2026, signals a strategic shift towards prioritising AI-generated answers over traditional web links. Industry observers have raised concerns that this could significantly reduce traffic to external websites that depend on Google for visitors.

Jakarta Continues to Review and Discuss Feedback on Cycle Lanes

The Jakarta provincial government is still gathering public input regarding the capital's cycle lanes, acknowledging that many are currently underutilised or occupied by other vehicles. Special Staff Coordinator Yustinus Prastowo stated that various suggestions from communities and the Transport Council are being discussed before a final decision is made by the Governor. The administration insists it is not sidelining cyclists but must address safety concerns caused by lane misuse.

AI Investment Doesn't Automatically Generate Profit, IT Foundation is Key

A ManageEngine executive warns that investment in artificial intelligence does not guarantee immediate profit for Indonesian companies. Success depends on a strong IT foundation, data quality, and selecting the right use cases, as only 10% of CEOs have successfully used AI to both increase revenue and cut costs.

Coordinating Minister Airlangga Urges Listed Companies to Strengthen Transparency to Maintain Investor Trust

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has called on Indonesian listed companies to enhance their performance, governance, and transparency to maintain investor confidence. Speaking at the 2026 AEI members' meeting, he highlighted the government's commitment to supporting businesses through a dedicated task force aimed at resolving investment obstacles. The minister stressed that the credibility of the capital market is crucial for national economic stability.

DPR Urges Government to Accelerate Streamlining of State-Owned Enterprises

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission VI has called for the government to speed up the streamlining of state-owned enterprises (BUMN) to create leaner, more effective corporate structures. The legislator emphasised that the restructuring must be precise, ensuring that non-core subsidiaries do not waste public funds. The process is part of a broader directive involving the Danantara investment authority to enhance efficiency and focus on core business activities.

Collaboration Drives Strengthening of Renewable Energy Ecosystem in North Sulawesi

The newly inaugurated METI North Sulawesi chapter aims to accelerate the region's energy transition through cross-sector collaboration. North Sulawesi is highlighted as a strategic area, with renewables already comprising 32% of its energy mix, largely from geothermal sources. The initiative, supported by Pertamina NRE and local government, seeks to leverage this potential to bolster national energy security and drive inclusive economic growth.

National Vocational Training Phase 4 Selection to Begin 13 August

Indonesia's Ministry of Manpower has announced the selection process for the fourth phase of the National Vocational Training programme will run from 13 to 19 August. The ministry emphasised the importance of the selection to ensure candidates are prepared and suited to their chosen fields. Successful applicants will be announced on 20 August, with training commencing on 26 August.

Bank Sulteng EGM Ratifies Shareholder Capital Injection Funds

PT Bank Pembangunan Daerah (BPD) Sulawesi Tengah, or Bank Sulteng, has ratified the capital injection funds from provincial and district governments during an Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders. The meeting also discussed administrative adjustments and plans to allow the employee cooperative to own shares in the bank.