Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 13 August 2026

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Waka MPR: Scouting Movement Must Be an Instrument to Shape a Superior Generation

Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Lestari Moerdijat has called for the Scouting Movement to play an active role in preparing a competitive young generation. She stressed that the organisation's 65th anniversary should reinforce its function as a vehicle for character building and leadership. Moerdijat highlighted the need to manage Indonesia's demographic bonus effectively to achieve the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision.

Labour unions to expose political parties' seriousness on Manpower Bill

Indonesian labour unions plan to publicly name which political parties are genuinely committed to deliberating the new Manpower Bill. The announcement aims to inform the public about parliamentary allegiances on a law affecting millions of livelihoods. DPR leaders have assured that all factions are united in pursuing worker welfare, with a Constitutional Court deadline of 31 October 2026 for the bill's completion.

IADO urges Indonesian federations to meet anti-doping requirements for Asian Games

The Indonesia Anti-Doping Organisation (IADO) is pressing all Indonesian sports federations to comply with strict anti-doping regulations ahead of the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games. The Olympic Council of Asia will enforce full compliance with the Anti-Doping eLearning Platform (ADEL) for the first time, with no exceptions. Failure to meet the 15 August 2026 deadline will result in athletes and officials being barred from the athletes' village and competition.

Prabowo Praises Police Chief Listyo Sigit: Reached the Top Through Achievement

President Prabowo Subianto has publicly commended National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo for the force's role in national development, particularly the construction of bridges in remote areas. Speaking at the inauguration of thousands of infrastructure projects, Prabowo stated that Sigit's position is well-deserved due to his dedication and achievements. The Police Chief reported that the 'Merah Putih Presisi' bridge programme has connected over 1,300 villages, benefiting approximately two million citizens.

Drug Dealer in Dompu Wields Machete as Police Raid His Home

A suspected methamphetamine dealer in Dompu, West Nusa Tenggara, was arrested after brandishing a machete during a police raid on his home. Officers seized 5.93 grams of ready-to-sell crystal meth, scales, and drug paraphernalia following a tip-off from the public. The suspect is now in custody as investigators probe the source of the narcotics and potential wider networks.

Pelindo Relocates FRU-FSRU to Realise Bali Maritime Tourism Hub

PT Pelindo Marine Service has relocated a Floating Regasification Unit (FRU) and a Floating Storage Regasification Unit (FSRU) from the Benoa Cruise Ship Terminal to support the development of the Bali Maritime Tourism Hub (BMTH). The strategic move aims to free up space for the tourism project while ensuring the relocated FRU continues to supply gas to PLN's power plants in Bali. Officials stated the operation demonstrates that modern tourism development can proceed in harmony with critical energy infrastructure needs.

Agriculture Minister and Komnas Perempuan Synergise to Protect Women in Agriculture

Indonesia's Agriculture Minister and the National Commission on Violence Against Women have agreed to strengthen collaboration to protect women and promote inclusive, equitable agricultural development. The agreement follows a meeting to clarify a recent polemic, which both parties now consider resolved. The partnership will focus on concrete actions, including integrating gender mainstreaming into agricultural programmes and ensuring women's involvement at all stages.

Prabowo Launches National Electric Motorcycle and Ecosystem in Cikarang

President Prabowo Subianto officially launched the national electric motorcycle (MOLINAS) and its supporting ecosystem at a production facility in Cikarang, West Java. The president praised the private sector's courage in investing in domestic electric vehicle manufacturing despite fierce competition from China, Japan, and South Korea. He emphasised that the initiative is a matter of national interest, aimed at reducing Indonesia's dependence on imported fuel.

North Korea Plans to Deploy Up to 50,000 Troops to Western Russia, Says Ukraine Intel

Ukrainian military intelligence reports that Russia and North Korea are considering a plan to deploy up to 50,000 North Korean troops to western Russia by the end of November. The deployment aims to free up Russian units for the front line in eastern Ukraine's Donbas region. The plan, which requires final approval from both nations' leaders, follows a strategic partnership pact and the existing presence of over 10,000 North Korean soldiers in the area.

Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Invites Industry to Develop Energy Technology

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology is calling on industry players to collaborate on developing renewable energy technologies. Minister Brian Yuliarto stressed the importance of creating an ecosystem that connects industrial needs with research capacity through consortia and pilot projects. The initiative aims to support national energy resilience and reduce import dependency, aligning with President Prabowo Subianto's directives.

House in Cirebon Catches Fire, Suspected Electrical Short from Mobile Phone Charger

A residential property in Cirebon Regency was engulfed by flames while the occupants were away, with initial investigations pointing to an electrical short circuit from a mobile phone charger. The fire, which started in a bedroom, quickly spread to a mattress and bed frame before firefighters arrived to extinguish it. No casualties were reported as the family was outside the home at the time of the incident.

PT GNI to Lay Off 1,900 Workers in Morowali Amid Financial Distress

PT Gunbuster Nickel Industry (GNI) in North Morowali, Central Sulawesi, is set to lay off approximately 1,900 employees as it grapples with severe financial difficulties. The company stated the decision was taken after a comprehensive evaluation, citing an ongoing debt suspension process (PKPU) and the shutdown of two of its three smelters. Management emphasised the layoffs are a last resort to align workforce size with reduced operational capacity and ensure the company's survival.

President's Speech on 14 August 2026: What Time and Where to Watch Live

President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to deliver his state address at the MPR Annual Session and the Joint Session of the DPR-DPD on Friday, 14 August 2026. The event, part of the 81st Independence Day commemorations, will begin at 08:30 WIB and will be broadcast live on several official YouTube channels. The scheduling was moved forward from the usual 16 August date because the latter falls on a Sunday, in accordance with parliamentary rules requiring the session to be held on a working day.

Expert: Economic Factors Drive Crime, Job Training Prevents Recidivism

The Executive Director of the Center for Detention Studies (CDS) has stated that economic hardship is a primary driver of crime among Indonesia's prison population, with nearly half of inmates citing financial reasons for their offences. He argues that providing vocational skills and productive activities inside correctional facilities is crucial to breaking the 'school of crime' cycle and preventing former inmates from reoffending. The CDS also noted recent improvements by the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections in linking inmate-produced goods to professional markets, though stressed the need for risk-based separation of prisoners to ensure effective rehabilitation.

Undip Students Initiate Waste Bank to Boost Recycling in Batang Village

A team of students from Diponegoro University (Undip) has established a waste bank in Denasri Wetan Village, Batang, Central Java, to improve household waste sorting and processing. The initiative, named Dena Lestari Berdaya, aims to shift the community's perception of waste from something to be discarded to a resource with economic value. The project involves collaboration with the village-owned enterprise (BUMDes) and the local women's association (PKK) to ensure its long-term sustainability.

KontraS Activist Andrie Yunus Undergoes Seven Surgeries After Acid Attack

Andrie Yunus, a deputy coordinator for the human rights group KontraS, has undergone seven major surgeries and faces a long recovery after being attacked with acid in March 2026. The assault, allegedly carried out by members of the Indonesian military's Strategic Intelligence Agency, left him with burns on 24 percent of his body and severe eye damage. His supporters have raised concerns about the lack of transparency in the legal proceedings against the convicted soldiers.

Nansha Launches Global Cross-Border Trade Ecosystem to Boost GBA Integration

Guangzhou's Nansha district has launched a comprehensive cross-border trade ecosystem, integrating seaport, airport, finance, talent, and data services to create a full-supply-chain hub. The initiative includes a new Guangdong Token Exchange and Service Center, alongside financial innovations like FT accounts and mBridge, aiming to resolve financing and compliance bottlenecks for enterprises. This development positions Nansha as a benchmark for openness in the Greater Bay Area, enhancing China's global trade connectivity.

ASITA Urges Stricter Access to Komodo National Park for Licensed Operators Only

The Indonesian Travel Agency Association (ASITA) in East Nusa Tenggara is calling for tighter regulation of tourism services in Labuan Bajo, proposing that access to Komodo National Park tickets be restricted to legally licensed businesses. The move aims to curb the widespread practice of unlicensed individuals, such as drivers and hotel staff, selling tour packages, which complicates consumer protection. ASITA argues that linking ticket access to business legality will enhance accountability and safeguard the reputation of the premium destination.

Fahira Idris Condemns Qur'an Memorisation Challenge with Alcohol Prize, Demands Thorough Investigation

Senator Fahira Idris has strongly condemned a Qur'an memorisation challenge at a Jakarta music festival that offered alcoholic beverages as a prize, calling it an act that has crossed the line. She has urged the police to conduct a comprehensive investigation into all parties involved, including the organisers and alcohol providers, and to apply relevant criminal provisions. Idris also called for a review of alcohol distribution regulations at public events and reiterated the need for a comprehensive national law on alcohol production and consumption.

MBG Corruption Suspect Lodewyk Pusung Requests Return of Notebooks and iPhone 17 Pro Max

Lodewyk Pusung, a former deputy head of the National Nutrition Agency and a suspect in the alleged corruption of the free nutritious meal programme, has petitioned a Jakarta court to be present at his pretrial hearing. He also requested the return of three notebooks and an iPhone 17 Pro Max seized during the investigation. Pusung denies all allegations, claiming the procurement accusations are slanderous and that the programme was executed according to legal mandates from President Prabowo Subianto.

Regent Inspects Damaged Clean Water System on Kelapa Dua Island

The Regent of the Thousand Islands has inspected a malfunctioning Sea Water Reverse Osmosis (SWRO) facility on Kelapa Dua Island to ensure the swift restoration of clean water supply. The inspection revealed technical issues including a faulty pressure sensor and a damaged sludge pump, which have disrupted production. Repairs are scheduled to begin on 14 August, with authorities pledging to maintain service and guarantee water quality.

Latest Update on CPO Dispute Between Haji Isam's JARR and Duta Palma

PT Jhonlin Agro Raya Tbk. (JARR) has asserted it was unaware of any legal issues surrounding crude palm oil purchased from PT Agrinas Palma Nusantara (APN) at the time of the transaction. The company maintains it acted as a good faith buyer, having completed all payments and received the 3,498 metric tonnes of CPO before learning of objections from Duta Palma Group. JARR claims the dispute has no material impact on its financial position or operations.

10 Indonesian Companies to Develop National Electric Motorcycle Project

Indonesia's Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani announced that around ten national companies are ready to develop the National Electric Motorcycle (Molinas) project, having met local content requirements. The government sees significant growth potential in the electric motorcycle market, which currently has a penetration rate of only 1 per cent. Lippo Group's James Riady has committed to purchasing 20,000 units of the nationally produced electric motorcycles.

Apindo Oversees 14 Priority Issues to Unravel Business Hurdles

The Indonesian Employers' Association (Apindo) has established a special task force to address 14 priority issues hampering the business climate, ranging from raw material supply to labour law revisions. Chairwoman Shinta W. Kamdani stressed that resolving these bottlenecks is crucial for creating quality jobs, especially given that 67% of the nation's unemployed are young people. The association noted that the government has begun responding to its input as part of efforts to improve the investment climate and formalise the workforce.

HNW Urges Youth Parliament to Continue Historical Role of Young Generation

Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Hidayat Nur Wahid has called on the Indonesian Youth Parliament to counter stereotypes of Generation Z being anti-politics and to prepare for the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision. He highlighted the historical role of educated youth in the 1928 Youth Pledge and the independence movement. The Youth Parliament plans to hold its annual conference in October 2026 and has invited HNW to serve as a speaker and advisor.

Man Who Terrorised Neighbours in Depok Named as Suspect

Police in Depok, West Java, have named a man as a suspect for vandalism and threats following a long-running dispute with his neighbours. The conflict, which began in 2024, escalated to the point where the suspect allegedly damaged property and threw a helmet at the victims' home, prompting the family to sell their house. The suspect faces charges under the Criminal Code for destruction of property and threats of violence.

Prabowo's Tale: Entrepreneurs and Soldiers Share Similar Traits

President Prabowo Subianto drew a parallel between the character of entrepreneurs and soldiers during the launch of a national electric motorcycle in Cikarang. He praised the courage of businesspeople in taking risks, likening their strategic approach to military operations. The President also stressed that the electric vehicle programme serves a national interest by reducing Indonesia's energy dependence on foreign powers.

MSCI Rebalancing Strengthens Indonesia's Equity Weight

The August 2026 MSCI index rebalancing has resulted in an increased weighting for Indonesian equities, rising to an estimated 0.47% from 0.43% in May. Despite the removal of GoTo and a downgrade for Charoen Pokphand Indonesia, market practitioner Hans Kwee attributes the changes to technical trading dynamics rather than a broad weakening of the domestic capital market. Short-term foreign outflows are estimated at up to US$289 million as fund managers adjust portfolios ahead of the effective date.

House Commission III Vows Objectivity in Supreme Court Justice Selection Amid Civil Society Criticism

The House of Representatives' Commission III has pledged to maintain objectivity in the fit and proper test for Supreme Court and ad hoc human rights and corruption court justices, asserting its authority to reject unqualified candidates. The statement comes in response to criticism from a civil society coalition questioning the transparency of the selection process conducted by the Judicial Commission. The final decision on the candidates is scheduled to be made later today.

Foreign Ministry: Joint Indonesia-China Naval Drill Part of Maritime Diplomacy

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has stated that a recent joint naval exercise with China was a routine goodwill engagement and part of maritime diplomacy, not combat training. The passing exercise, conducted in waters east of Taiwan, involved the KRI I Gusti Ngurah Rai-332 and the Chinese vessel Honghe. Officials emphasised the drill aligns with Indonesia's free and active foreign policy and aims to build trust and professional relationships between the two navies.

Social Affairs Ministry Distributes Clean Water to Thousands of Pangandaran Residents Affected by Drought

The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs has deployed water trucks, storage tanks, and purification equipment to assist nearly 8,000 residents in Pangandaran, West Java, who are facing a severe water crisis. The drought, which has been ongoing since May 2026, has impacted 22 villages across nine sub-districts, with the local government declaring a 90-day state of emergency. The aid is focused on ensuring safe water access and is being coordinated with local agencies and volunteers to reach the worst-hit areas.

How to Recognise the Signs of a Hacked WhatsApp Account

Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting WhatsApp accounts to steal personal data and financial information. Users should be vigilant for key warning signs such as receiving unsolicited OTP codes, unexpected logouts, and messages being read or sent without their knowledge. Enabling two-step verification and regularly checking linked devices are crucial steps to prevent and mitigate account takeovers.

Traffic Police in Bekasi Greet Online Motorcycle Taxi and Public Minivan Drivers, Distribute Indonesian Flags

Traffic police in Bekasi, West Java, distributed Indonesian flags to online motorcycle taxi drivers, public minivan operators, and other road users to foster nationalism ahead of the 81st Independence Day. The initiative, part of the 'Polantas Menyapa' programme, also included public education on traffic order. Local police reported that the city remains safe and conducive, with residents enthusiastically preparing various community events to celebrate the national holiday.

GOTO: MSCI Removal Not Linked to Company Performance

GoTo management has clarified that the removal of its shares from the MSCI Global Standard Index is a purely technical decision, not a reflection of the company's fundamentals. The exclusion follows a period where the stock price touched a low of Rp50, accompanied by reduced trading volume. The company highlighted its strong recovery, posting a net profit for the second consecutive quarter and achieving a record EBITDA.

Trade Ministry, Shopee expand market access for local products

Indonesia's Trade Ministry and e-commerce platform Shopee have launched a programme to boost the visibility and sales of domestic products, particularly from MSMEs. The initiative, backed by over Rp100 billion in seller vouchers and support services, aims to strengthen local competitiveness and follows a June regulation on digital trade promotion. The collaboration is designed to create an inclusive digital ecosystem connecting sellers, platforms, and consumers to drive long-term economic growth.

Woman Who Slapped 3 Junior High Schoolgirls in Bogor Revealed to Be Alumna

Police in Bogor, West Java, have identified a female assailant who slapped three junior high school students as an alumna of the victims' school. The attack, which occurred on 11 August, was allegedly triggered by the perpetrator's anger over gossip that her boarding house was frequently visited by male friends late at night. Authorities have confirmed the identities of all involved and are continuing their investigation into the viral incident.

PT Len Uses Electric Trail Bike Engineering as Foundation for National EV Research

State-owned electronics firm PT Len Industri is leveraging its engineering work on the Sprint electric trail bike to advance research into reliable electric vehicle system integration. The company aims to ensure cross-subsystem compatibility and safety, from batteries to charging infrastructure, to prevent failures caused by differing technical standards. The initiative focuses on interface alignment and data verification without overriding the roles of vehicle manufacturers or standard-setting bodies.

Elderly Man Dies While Assisting Forest Fire Response in Kubu Raya, West Kalimantan

A 65-year-old man in Kubu Raya Regency, West Kalimantan, died from a suspected heart attack while helping to monitor and provide logistical support for teams battling land and forest fires. Kasim, a plantation caretaker, collapsed after complaining of nausea and was later pronounced dead at a local hospital. The incident highlights the community's involvement in firefighting efforts amid ongoing land and forest fire challenges in the region.

Vale says mechanical construction of Pomalaa HPAL nickel smelter complete

PT Vale Indonesia has completed the physical and mechanical construction of its high-pressure acid leach (HPAL) nickel smelter in Pomalaa, Southeast Sulawesi, and is now moving to the commissioning phase. The facility is expected to begin operations ahead of schedule, targeting the third quarter of 2026. Once operational, the smelter will produce 120,000 tonnes of mixed hydroxide precipitate (MHP) annually, a key material for electric vehicle batteries.

President Prabowo Inaugurates 'Red and White Precision' Bridge in Bali, Boosting School Access

President Prabowo Subianto remotely inaugurated the 'Jembatan Merah Putih Presisi' bridge in Tianyar Village, Karangasem, Bali, a project built by the Indonesian National Police. The new bridge is set to significantly improve daily mobility and provide safer access to education for local children. The initiative is part of a wider national programme that has seen the police construct or renovate 895 such bridges across the country.

Yusril: Alcohol Promotion Using Quran Recitation Challenge Can Be Legally Processed

Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra has stated that a promotional campaign linking alcohol with Quran recitation challenges can be pursued under Indonesia's new criminal code. He urged police to carefully apply articles on religious offences, noting the act is offensive to Muslims and could spark public unrest. The minister suggested restorative justice might be possible if the act was unintentional and an apology is issued.

Six Chinese Automotive Brands Secure 11,224 Orders During GIIAS 2026

Chinese automotive manufacturers demonstrated robust sales performance at the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2026, collectively securing 11,224 vehicle orders. Geely and Wuling led the pack with over 3,000 orders each, driven largely by strong consumer interest in electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. The results underscore the growing acceptance and diversification of Chinese-branded electrified vehicles in the Indonesian market.

Foreign Ministry Responds to Spotlight on Kalimantan Forest Fire Haze Drifting to Malaysia

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has stated that ongoing firefighting efforts in Kalimantan are proceeding regardless of official complaints from neighbouring countries. The response follows reports of transboundary haze from forest and land fires affecting air quality in Sarawak, Malaysia. The government is coordinating integrated measures including water bombing, weather modification, and regional monitoring under the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution.

Five Residents Killed in Gold Mine Landslide in Gorontalo

A landslide at a gold mine in Pohuwato Regency, Gorontalo, has claimed the lives of five people. The incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon, with one survivor receiving hospital treatment for minor injuries. Police are currently investigating the cause of the landslide at the site, which hosts both small-scale and corporate mining operations.

Central Java Government Tests Interlock Bricks for Faster, Cheaper Home Construction

The Central Java provincial government is trialling interlock brick technology in Wonogiri to reduce the cost and construction time of subsidised housing. A 30-square-metre house was built for Rp60 million, significantly less than the typical Rp90 million, and completed in just one and a half months. The initiative, in partnership with PT Semen Indonesia, aims to address the region's housing backlog and improve living standards for low-income residents.

Electric Motorcycle Push: Range and Battery Life Under Scrutiny

The Indonesian government's plan to accelerate the national electric motorcycle ecosystem, MOLINAS, faces scrutiny over consumer needs. Automotive expert Bebin Djuana argues that current subsidies are insufficient and that limited battery range, particularly for gig workers, remains a major obstacle. The broader ecosystem initiative, set to be launched by President Prabowo, aims to integrate manufacturing, infrastructure, and financing to build a sustainable market.

China’s naval drill near Taiwan puts Indonesia in an awkward position

Indonesia's participation in a Chinese naval exercise near Taiwan has drawn condemnation from Taipei and raised questions about Jakarta's foreign policy. The Indonesian Navy vessel joined the drill while returning from Japan, a move that risks normalising China's military presence in the sensitive strait. The episode highlights the inherent tension in Indonesia's relationship with Beijing, which is both a key economic partner and a source of strategic friction in the North Natuna Sea.

Prabowo Officially Launches 20,000 National Electric Motorcycles in Cikarang

President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated the national electric motorcycle ecosystem produced by PT Ilectra Motor Group (ALVA) in Cikarang, West Java, marking a milestone with 20,000 units produced. He praised the private sector's courage in undertaking the risky initiative, specifically acknowledging the Indika Energy group. The President pledged to return for future production milestones of 200,000 and 2 million units.

Said Iqbal Urges DPR Not to Rush Labour Bill Debate Like Omnibus Law

Confederation of Indonesian Trade Unions (KSPI) President Said Iqbal has urged the House of Representatives (DPR) to conduct a transparent and comprehensive deliberation of the new Labour Bill. He specifically warned against repeating the controversial process of the Job Creation Omnibus Law, which was debated hastily and behind closed doors. The DPR is targeting to finalise the bill by October 2026 to comply with a Constitutional Court ruling.

BBKSDA Riau Confirms Viral Photo of Sumatran Tiger in Pasir Putih, Kampar is a Hoax

The Riau Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BBKSDA) has confirmed that a viral photo claiming to show a Sumatran tiger in Pasir Putih, Kampar Regency, is a hoax. A field investigation found no biological or physical evidence of the protected animal's presence. Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant but not to panic, and to verify information before sharing it online.