Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 12 August 2026

Showing 351-400 of 1,433 articles

DJSN to Recommend Prof Ngoerah General Hospital Expand Services to Eastern Indonesia

The National Social Security Council (DJSN) plans to recommend that Prof Ngoerah General Hospital in Bali expand its national pilot programme to serve patients from eastern Indonesia. The recommendation follows a field visit confirming the hospital's adequate facilities and readiness, including standard inpatient classes and AI-assisted verification for the National Health Insurance programme.

Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education: SNT Revives Students' Dreams in Kupang, NTT

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has highlighted the role of the National Integrated School (SNT) in nurturing the aspirations of talented students in Kupang Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. Minister Abdul Mu'ti emphasised the need for educational approaches that allow students to develop according to their individual potential. Students at the school have shared how its quality facilities and mentoring have helped them overcome limitations and build on their achievements in singing, poetry, and public speaking.

Head of Lombok Nutrition Service Unit Questioned by Police Over Alleged Sexual Harassment

The head of a government nutrition service unit in Central Lombok has been questioned by police following a sexual harassment complaint filed by a 21-year-old female subordinate. The suspect denies the allegations, calling the incident a misunderstanding, while investigators plan to consult criminal law experts and psychologists to determine if a crime occurred.

DPR Speaker: Aida Budiman Nominated as Senior Deputy Governor of BI

House of Representatives (DPR) Speaker Puan Maharani has confirmed that the government has formally submitted a list of candidates for key leadership positions at Bank Indonesia. The nominations include Destry Damayanti for Governor and Aida Budiman as the sole candidate for Senior Deputy Governor. The DPR will conduct fit and proper tests after the new parliamentary session opens on 14 August.

World Elephant Day 2026: Indonesia's fight to save its elephants

Indonesia is intensifying efforts to protect its critically endangered Sumatran and endangered Bornean elephants, whose populations have plummeted due to habitat loss and poaching. A new presidential instruction mandates a temporary suspension of forest-use permits in primary habitats and requires a comprehensive strategy to mitigate human-elephant conflict. The policy underscores the need for cross-sector cooperation, including with plantation companies, to restore ecological corridors and revive traditional community stewardship.

Moscow Demands Answers from Israel Over Disappearance of Russian-Israeli Activist

Tensions are rising between Russia and Israel following the disappearance of Russian-Israeli journalist and activist Artyom Kirpichenok. Kirpichenok, a vocal critic of Israeli government policy, vanished after arriving at Ben Gurion Airport, with reports suggesting he is being held by the Shin Bet security service. The Russian embassy has formally requested information from Israeli authorities regarding his detention.

Police to Determine Fate of Two Detained Over Qur'an Recitation for Alcohol Challenge

Police in North Jakarta are set to determine the fate of two individuals arrested in connection with a controversial challenge that offered alcoholic drinks as a reward for reciting the Qur'an at a music festival. The event's organiser and sponsor have both condemned the incident, with the sponsor clarifying it was a spontaneous act by an attendee and not a planned promotion.

INET Launches JKT01 Data Centre in Cyber Jakarta Building to Strengthen Digital Business

PT Sinergi Inti Andalan Prima Tbk (INET) has officially launched its new SIDI JKT01 data centre in Jakarta's Cyber 1 Building. The facility, operated by its subsidiary, aims to expand the company's integrated digital infrastructure services. The strategic location near national connectivity hubs is expected to enhance service reliability and security for customers.

Maluku Showcases Premier Arts and Culture at Discover Nusantara 2026

Maluku's Regional National Crafts Council is exhibiting its finest textiles, crafts, and local food products at the Discover Nusantara 2026 event in Jakarta. The 28-day exhibition aims to broaden market access for the province's creative entrepreneurs and promote its cultural wealth to national and international audiences. The initiative highlights a strategic collaboration between local government and the private sector to boost the competitiveness of Maluku's micro, small, and medium enterprises.

Minister Urges Umrah Travel Operators to Embrace Digital Shift, Strengthen Service Quality

Minister of Hajj and Umrah Mochammad Irfan Yusuf has called on Umrah travel organisers (PPIU) to view the rise of independent Umrah travel not as a threat, but as a catalyst for improving service quality. He emphasised that digitalisation has shifted competition beyond pricing, requiring operators to offer comprehensive care, including emergency assistance and specialised support for elderly and disabled pilgrims. The minister also stressed the need for stronger governance and clear accountability chains in the marketing of Umrah packages.

MP Urges Forestry Ministry to Control Long-Tailed Macaque Population

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called on the Ministry of Forestry to implement clear population control measures for long-tailed macaques, citing increasing damage to farmland and attacks on humans. The MP stressed that any intervention must be legally grounded, scientifically based, and uphold animal welfare principles. The government is urged to move beyond ad-hoc responses and conduct serious studies on population numbers and habitat carrying capacity.

Maybank Marathon Targets Economic Impact of Up to IDR 300 Billion, Strengthens Bali's Sport Tourism

The Maybank Marathon 2026 is aiming to generate an economic impact of up to IDR 300 billion, a significant increase from IDR 255 billion in 2025. Organisers are positioning the event, which will host 14,100 runners from 46 countries, as a catalyst for local economic growth and a key driver of sport tourism in Bali. The marathon also serves as a platform for national athletic development, featuring elite international runners and holding a World Athletics Elite Label Road Race status.

Puan on DPR dancing: This year will be more introspective and solemn

House Speaker Puan Maharani has pledged that legislators will conduct themselves with greater introspection and solemnity during the 2026 Annual Session, following public criticism of dancing at the previous year's event. She acknowledged that while expressions of joy are permissible, they must respect the formal atmosphere of state occasions. The upcoming session will also feature the government's presentation of the 2027 State Budget Bill.

Ahead of 35th Congress, NU Activists Urge PBNU Chair to Remain Independent from Power

A group of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) figures and activists are calling for the organisation's next leadership to be independent and free from practical political interests. They argue that maintaining distance from the government is crucial for NU to effectively advocate for grassroots communities. The 35th NU Congress is scheduled to take place in Jombang, East Java, in August 2026.

KAI Logistik Offers 17% Shipping Discount to Celebrate 81st Independence Day

PT Kereta Api Logistik (KAI Logistik) is offering a 17 per cent discount on shipping for packages weighing at least 10 kilograms throughout August 2026 to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The 'Merdeka Ongkir' promotion applies to deliveries made via the KALOG Express service points and aims to provide added value while encouraging wider use of rail-based logistics. The state-owned company is also expanding its digital services and now operates 295 service points nationwide.

International Youth Day 2026: Gen Z Dominates 55 Percent of KAI Regional Division I North Sumatra Customers

Generation Z now constitutes 55 percent of PT Kereta Api Indonesia's customer base in North Sumatra, reflecting a significant shift in mobility patterns. The state-owned railway operator is adapting its digital services and facilities to cater to this young, mobile demographic for education, work, and leisure travel. KAI also highlighted that its internal workforce is predominantly composed of young talent, driving innovation and service transformation.

MPR Affirms Annual Session as Form of Institutional Accountability to the People

The People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) has emphasised that the Annual Session is a crucial mechanism for strengthening state institutions' accountability to the public, rather than a mere ceremonial event. The session integrates reports from the presidency, the House of Representatives (DPR), and the Regional Representative Council (DPD). This year's session is scheduled for 14 August 2026 and will also feature the President's state address marking the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence.

South Korea's Gift for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day

South Korea is hosting a photo exhibition titled 'My Wish, Our Wish: Road to Freedom' in Jakarta to commemorate the shared struggles for independence of both nations. The exhibition, running from 12 to 31 August, highlights the lives of Korean independence activist Kim Koo and Indonesian founding figures like Soekarno and Adam Malik. The event aims to strengthen bilateral cultural understanding and friendship ahead of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day and the 150th anniversary of Kim Koo's birth.

Bakrie Palm Oil Issuer (UNSP) Conducts Rp4.35 Trillion Private Placement to Pay Debt

PT Bakrie Sumatera Plantations Tbk (UNSP) has completed a private placement of Rp4.35 trillion, issuing over 14.5 billion new shares to 11 investors. The company clarified that the proceeds are intended to settle outstanding liabilities, as its debt exceeds 80% of total assets and its equity remains negative.

Iran's Assassination Threat Against Donald Trump Increasingly Credible

US security officials now consider Iran's plot to assassinate former President Donald Trump highly credible, following the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a joint US-Israeli strike. The threat, rooted in the 2020 killing of Quds Force commander Qassem Suleimani, has prompted extraordinary protective measures, including a decoy operation in Turkey. Experts warn the persistent danger complicates diplomatic efforts to end the ongoing conflict.

New Carbon Regulation Issued, Forestry Ministry Stresses Forest Conservation as Core Principle

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry has issued a new ministerial regulation to strengthen governance of carbon trading in the forestry sector. The regulation, Ministerial Decree No. 6 of 2026, mandates that carbon utilisation must prioritise forest conservation, biodiversity protection, and community welfare. Officials emphasised that the framework aims to provide legal certainty, enhance market credibility, and ensure carbon trading supports sustainable forest management and national climate targets.

Singaporean fugitive and girlfriend rescued from kidnapping ring in Johor

Malaysian police rescued a Singaporean fugitive and his girlfriend in Johor after they were abducted by a kidnapping syndicate demanding an S$80,000 ransom. The man, wanted for a parole violation, had entered Malaysia illegally, and both victims tested positive for methamphetamine. Six Malaysian suspects, including the alleged mastermind, were arrested, marking the second rescue of a Singaporean kidnap victim by Malaysian authorities within a week.

KPK Closes Corruption Loopholes in Red and White Village Cooperative Programme

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is conducting a governance review of the Red and White Village Cooperative (KDMP) programme in Central Lombok to prevent corruption. The initiative aims to ensure accountability and transparency in the strategic national programme designed to improve public welfare. The review includes mapping planning, funding, implementation, and oversight aspects, with recommendations to be followed up by relevant ministries.

Preventing HIV-AIDS Among Cirebon Junior High School Adolescents Through the Youth Care Campaign

A digital screening platform called Youth Care has been launched in Cirebon to provide early education and risk detection for HIV-AIDS and sexually transmitted infections among junior high school students. The initiative, led by the Tasikmalaya Health Polytechnic and the Cirebon city government, responds to fluctuating local HIV case numbers, including 125 new cases recorded in 2025. The programme integrates teachers, health workers, and psychologists to build a sustainable adolescent health ecosystem, with a strong emphasis on data confidentiality.

Reshaping the face of tourism in Gili Matra, Lombok

The daily rhythm of the tides on Gili Meno shapes the lives of local children, who turn the exposed reef into a playground and a source of food. This intimate connection between the community and the sea forms the backdrop for broader efforts to rebuild the island's ecosystem. The initiative aims to balance the preservation of local culture and marine life with the demands of tourism in the Gili Matra area.

Belitung Nutrition Unit Implements Consumption Time Labels on Free Meal Packages

The Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit (SPPG) in Belitung Regency has begun placing consumption time limit labels on food containers for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. This measure follows official instructions from the Head of the National Nutrition Agency to ensure food safety. The initiative aims to prevent spoilage and microbial contamination, with plans for a phased rollout across all participating schools.

Home Affairs Ministry Partners with Pandawara Group to Promote Clean Indonesia Campaign

The Ministry of Home Affairs has enlisted the popular environmental group Pandawara to spearhead the 'Gerakan Indonesia ASRI' campaign, aiming to boost public participation in waste management and environmental cleanliness. The initiative focuses on changing community habits and addressing waste issues from upstream to downstream. Pandawara, known for its viral river and beach clean-up videos, hopes to eventually establish its own recycling facility to process collected waste into new products.

Peatland Fire in Sungai Gelam, Muarojambi, Successfully Contained

A large peatland fire in Muarojambi Regency, Jambi, has been brought under control after more than a week of firefighting efforts. The joint task force is now focused on cooling operations to prevent any deep-seated fires from resurfacing. Police have announced they will launch a full investigation to determine the cause of the blaze and identify those legally responsible.

Police arrest two suspected of blasphemy in North Jakarta

Police in North Jakarta have arrested two individuals suspected of committing blasphemy during a music festival in Ancol. The arrests followed a report by the Pademangan branch of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) after a video of the incident went viral. Authorities have questioned six witnesses and are preparing to elevate the case to the investigation stage.

Sutrimo Exhumation Results to Serve as Evidence for Investigators

Polda Metro Jaya has exhumed the body of Sutrimo in Banyumas, Central Java, as part of a criminal investigation into his death. The procedure was conducted jointly by investigators and a forensic medical team following reports from the family citing irregularities. The results are expected to clarify the cause of death and guide further investigative steps.

Ahead of 35th Congress, NU Figures and Activists Urge PBNU to Keep Distance from Practical Politics

Prominent figures and activists within Nahdlatul Ulama are calling for the organisation's next leadership to remain independent and free from practical political entanglements ahead of its 35th Congress in Jombang. They stress that the new board must maintain a critical distance from power to effectively advocate for grassroots communities. The congress, scheduled for late August 2026, is also seeing demands for greater affirmative action to include women in strategic decision-making roles.

Indonesia's Sumbawa Timur Mining Could Hold Gold Reserves Larger Than Freeport's

The Indonesian Mining Institute has revealed that Sumbawa Timur Mining's Hu'u project in West Nusa Tenggara may contain gold reserves surpassing those of PT Freeport Indonesia. The company, majority-owned by Vale, has been exploring the Onto deposit since 1998 and has identified over a billion tonnes of mineral resources. This discovery highlights Indonesia's significant untapped gold potential across the archipelago.

Pramono to Crack Down on Illegal Dumpsite in Cilincing

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has pledged internal reforms and firm action against an illegal waste disposal site in Nagrak, Cilincing, North Jakarta. He has ordered the public identification and fining of perpetrators, warning that commercial entities profiting from the illegal dumping of hotel, restaurant, and café waste could face closure. The site, officially closed since 2016, remains active with private trucks and scavengers despite its disputed land status.

Jakarta Provincial Government Prepares IDR 5.6 Trillion Bond, to Be Issued in Stages in 2027 and 2028

The Jakarta Provincial Government is preparing to issue regional bonds worth IDR 5.6 trillion to fund infrastructure and public service projects. The issuance will be carried out in two phases, with IDR 4.2 trillion planned for 2027 and the remaining IDR 1.3 trillion for 2028. The scheme is designed to manage the repayment burden, with funds drawn down gradually according to project needs.

DPR to Conduct Fit and Proper Test for Four BI Officials Next Week

The House of Representatives (DPR) will begin fit and proper tests next week for four candidates for top positions at Bank Indonesia. The candidates include Destry Damayanti for Governor and Aida S. Budiman for Senior Deputy Governor. The government has also submitted names for OJK commissioners and ambassadors.

Bulog and Bapanas Chiefs Distribute Food Aid in Surabaya

The Director of Bulog and the Head of the National Food Agency (Bapanas) have directly distributed government food aid to residents in Surabaya, East Java. The initiative is part of a national programme to support 33.24 million beneficiaries, with each receiving 10 kilograms of rice per month for three months. Officials emphasised the government's commitment to ensuring aid reaches those in need promptly, backed by a national rice stock of 5.2 million tonnes.

Police Investigate KMP Mutiara Sentosa 2 Fire in Sumenep Using SCI Method

The East Java Police's Directorate of Water and Air Police has launched an investigation into the fire aboard the KMP Mutiara Sentosa 2 off the coast of Sumenep, Madura. Investigators are employing the Scientific Crime Investigation (SCI) method to determine the exact cause of the blaze, focusing on operational procedures and potential negligence. Seven witnesses have been questioned so far, with authorities indicating the number is likely to grow as the probe continues.

Four Witnesses Examined by Team 9 in Febrie Adriansyah Money Laundering Case

Investigators from the Attorney General's Office have questioned four private sector witnesses in the money laundering case involving former junior attorney general for special crimes, Febrie Adriansyah. The examination aims to gather evidence and trace assets allegedly derived from criminal proceeds, including 74 kilograms of gold and hundreds of billions of rupiah. The case is part of a broader investigation into corruption and money laundering linked to state-owned enterprises.

LRT Jakarta Velodrome-Manggarai Route Set for 26 August 2026 Operational Launch

PT Jakarta Propertindo (Jakpro) reports that construction of the LRT Jakarta Phase 1B has reached 97.99 percent completion, with the Velodrome-Manggarai link scheduled to be inaugurated on 26 August 2026. The new 12.2-kilometre line will connect 11 stations from Kelapa Gading to Manggarai, significantly enhancing intermodal integration with Transjakarta, KRL Commuter Line, and the Airport Rail Link. Daily ridership is projected to rise to between 60,000 and 80,000 passengers, supporting efforts to reduce private vehicle use, congestion, and transport emissions.

Bamsoet Encourages Technology-Based Medical Check-Ups and Early Detection in Indonesia

Indonesian MP Bambang Soesatyo (Bamsoet) has urged the country to embrace advanced health technologies, including cell-based therapies, following a meeting with South Korean healthcare firm Sojunghan Medicare. He stressed that while Indonesia should be open to innovations like NK cell activation for immune response, any new therapy must undergo rigorous scientific evaluation and strict regulation to ensure patient safety. Bamsoet also highlighted the strong bilateral momentum to expand health cooperation beyond investment into areas such as research, medical education, and digital health.

Two Suspects in Qur'an Memorisation Challenge Case Detained by Police

Police have detained two individuals suspected of blasphemy after a viral incident at a Jakarta music festival where a Qur'an memorisation challenge was allegedly used to promote alcoholic beverages. The suspects, a woman and a man, are currently being held at the North Jakarta Metropolitan Police station. The case has sparked widespread condemnation from the event organiser, the master of ceremonies, and the beverage company involved.

Ministry of Transport reports swift evacuation of passengers from KMP Putri Yasmin

The Ministry of Transport has confirmed a swift and coordinated emergency response to a ferry fire aboard the KMP Putri Yasmin in the Lombok Strait. Search and rescue teams successfully evacuated 172 survivors, with one fatality reported. The ministry highlighted the crucial role of inter-agency coordination and nearby vessels in the rapid rescue operation.

Bromo Forest Fire Extinguished, Basic Infrastructure Rehabilitation Underway

The forest and land fire in the Bromo area of Probolinggo, East Java, has been successfully extinguished, according to the regional disaster management agency. Authorities are now shifting focus to rehabilitating basic infrastructure, including replacing damaged water pipes to prevent a clean water crisis. The local government is also prioritising the recovery of the tourism-dependent economy, which has been severely impacted by the disaster.

Government Says Rising Global Oil Prices Drive Up Beef Costs

The Indonesian government has attributed the recent increase in domestic beef prices to higher logistics and import costs driven by rising global oil prices. Trade Minister Budi Santoso noted that beef import realisation remains low at around 40 percent of the allocated quota, urging importers to seek more competitive suppliers. The national average price of beef has surpassed the government's retail price ceiling, prompting calls for accelerated imports of both beef and cheaper buffalo meat to stabilise the market.

Seven Global Tech Firms Enter Indonesia, Bringing Cybersecurity Solutions

Seven global technology companies are expanding into the Indonesian market through a partnership with local distributor PT Aswant Distribution Indonesia. The firms are introducing a range of solutions including cybersecurity, digital workspace management, identity and access management, and AI technologies. The move aims to address the growing need for comprehensive digital security amid Indonesia's rapid digital transformation.

Puan Explains Why Annual Session Is Held on August 14: It Must Be a Working Day

House Speaker Puan Maharani has clarified that the 2026 MPR Annual Session and the Joint Session of the DPR and DPD are scheduled for 14 August because the date falls on a working day. The session is traditionally held on 16 August, but since that date falls on a Sunday in 2026, the schedule has been adjusted in accordance with regulations prohibiting the sessions on weekends. President Prabowo Subianto is also scheduled to deliver the State Budget Bill later that afternoon.

Riau Regional Police Named Overall Champion in National Police Food Security Programme 2026

Polda Riau secured the overall champion title in Cluster 3 of the Indonesian National Police's 2026 Food Security Programme, accumulating the highest points across six competition categories. The award was presented by National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo to Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan in Jakarta. The achievement was attributed to strong collaboration between the police, local government, Bulog, farming groups, and other stakeholders in the Riau region.

Banten Governor Supports National Youth Food Security Jamboree

Banten Governor Andra Soni has endorsed the upcoming National Youth Food Security Jamboree, scheduled for 19-28 October in Wanasalam, Lebak Regency. The event will focus on practical training in food security, including biofloc technology and fish farming. Organisers hope the Banten initiative will serve as a national pilot programme for youth involvement in food security.

Pramono to Conduct Internal Reforms Over Illegal Dumpsite in Cilincing

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has pledged internal reforms and strict action against those responsible for an illegal waste disposal site in Nagrak, Cilincing. The governor stated that the majority of the illegally dumped waste originates from the hotel, restaurant, and café sector, transported by private operators. He has ordered the public disclosure of offenders' identities, the imposition of fines, and the closure of businesses that fail to comply.

Home Affairs Ministry Partners with Pandawara Group to Promote Environmental Cleanliness Campaign

The Ministry of Home Affairs has enlisted the youth environmental group Pandawara Group to spearhead a public campaign for the 'Gerakan Indonesia ASRI' initiative, aimed at improving national cleanliness and waste management. The programme, driven by a presidential directive, seeks to address issues such as littering and poor waste practices through mass community action and education. The collaboration highlights a push to change public behaviour and promote comprehensive waste management, from reduction to waste-to-energy conversion.