Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 13 August 2026

Showing 1,101-1,150 of 1,577 articles

Social Affairs Ministry Suspends Aid for 259 Beneficiary Families Indicated in Online Gambling in Tangerang

The Ministry of Social Affairs has suspended social assistance for 259 Beneficiary Families in Tangerang Regency after they were flagged for involvement in online gambling. The indication emerged from a joint investigation with the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre. Affected families have been urged to seek clarification, with 195 already applying to have their beneficiary status restored.

BNN Seizes Rp39.95 Billion in Assets from 'Fat Boss' Drug Lord of Kampung Bahari

Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has seized assets worth Rp39.95 billion from a suspected drug kingpin known as the 'Fat Boss' following his arrest in Jakarta. The seizure includes over Rp1.2 billion in cash and forms part of a money laundering investigation linked to a 98-kilogram methamphetamine case. Authorities faced resistance from loyalists during a subsequent raid in Kampung Bahari, leaving one police officer injured.

SGD Becomes Portfolio Diversification Choice for Wealthy Clients

Singapore dollar deposits are increasingly being used for portfolio diversification by affluent and high-net-worth clients in Indonesia. Bank DBS Indonesia and Mandiri Manajemen Investasi have partnered to offer SGD-denominated discretionary fund management services. The collaboration aims to provide personalised wealth management solutions that invest across fixed income, equity, and commodity asset classes based on individual risk profiles and investment mandates.

IHSG Outlook Following the MSCI Rebalancing Announcement

The Indonesian stock market remains under pressure following the MSCI August 2026 review, with the Jakarta Composite Index hovering around 6,300 as investors brace for passive fund adjustments. The removal of stocks like GOTO and CPIN from the MSCI Global Standard Index is expected to trigger technical selling ahead of the 31 August effective date. Analysts suggest the resulting market correction could present selective buying opportunities for fundamentally sound companies, while attention will soon shift to the November 2026 review and its assessment of Indonesia's capital market reforms.

Pegadaian and OJK Encourage Young Generation to Achieve Financial Independence Safely

PT Pegadaian and the Financial Services Authority (OJK) of East Java are promoting sound financial management among university students to foster safe financial independence. The initiative highlights the importance of early budgeting, understanding investment instruments like gold, and building emergency funds. Officials also cautioned students about the risks of illegal online loans, online gambling, and the misuse of paylater services, which can negatively impact their credit history.

France's losses from heatwave could reach 15 billion euros

France's economic losses from the current summer heatwave are estimated to reach between 10 and 15 billion euros, according to the country's Environment Minister. The final figure is expected to far exceed the 5 to 6 billion euros in damages recorded in 2022 due to the longer duration and greater intensity of this year's extreme weather. Europe is currently experiencing one of its worst heatwaves in recent years, with France also facing its highest number of forest fires since the Second World War.

High School Girl Struck by KRL: KPAI Urges Parents to Pay Closer Attention to Children

The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has called on parents to be more attentive to their children's wellbeing following the death of a high school student who was struck by a commuter train. The commission suspects the 14-year-old girl intended to take her own life. The incident occurred at Jurangmangu Station in South Tangerang.

KPK Raids Tax Inspector's Home in Malang, Seizes 1.3 kg of Gold and Rp 100 Million in Cash

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has raided the residence of a tax inspector in Malang, East Java, seizing 1.3 kilogrammes of gold bullion and Rp 100 million in cash. The search is part of an expanding investigation into a tax restitution corruption case at the Banjarmasin Tax Office. The anti-graft body has also conducted searches in Surakarta, Klaten, Jombang, Surabaya, Bandung, and Tangerang, uncovering additional foreign currency and issuing new investigation warrants related to bribery and money laundering.

North Jakarta's Kampung Bahari Drug Lord Arrested!

Indonesian authorities have arrested the alleged drug lord of Kampung Bahari, North Jakarta, following a surveillance operation. The arrest of the suspect, identified as MR, was met with violent resistance from loyalists who attacked officers with rocks and firecrackers. Police managed to subdue the attackers using tear gas, resulting in one officer sustaining injuries.

Police Reveal Irregularities in Sutrimo's Death, Victim's Belongings 'Missing'

Jakarta police have disclosed that the family of Sutrimo, found dead outside a beauty clinic in South Jakarta, reported several irregularities, including the failure to return the victim's personal belongings with his body. The case has been upgraded from an inquiry to a full investigation following a preliminary hearing. Authorities have examined eight witnesses and conducted an exhumation in Banyumas, Central Java, pledging a transparent and accountable legal process.

Singaporean man rescued in Malaysia wanted by CNB, believed to know kidnapper

A 32-year-old Singaporean man rescued from an alleged kidnapping in Malaysia is wanted by Singapore's Central Narcotics Bureau for a suspected drug offence. Malaysian police rescued the man and his girlfriend, both of whom tested positive for drugs, and arrested six Malaysians in connection with the kidnap-for-ransom plot. The Singapore Police Force has thanked Malaysian authorities for their swift action in securing the pair's safe rescue.

Prabowo Praises Maruli and Listyo for Reaching Top Positions Through Merit

President Prabowo Subianto commended Army Chief of Staff General Maruli Simanjuntak and National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, stating their rise to the highest ranks in their respective institutions is well-deserved due to their achievements and dedication. The President made the remarks during the virtual inauguration of thousands of infrastructure projects built by the military and police. He emphasised that the good deeds and service of leaders are always monitored and remembered by the people.

Prabowo: Indonesia is a United and Cooperative Nation

President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised Indonesia's spirit of unity and mutual cooperation, citing the military and police's joint infrastructure projects as proof. He virtually inaugurated 3,395 bridges and 3,000 clean water sources built by the TNI and Polri. The President stressed that such basic infrastructure development is crucial for public welfare and demonstrates the state's commitment to serving even the most remote communities.

Financial Accountability for Quality Education

Indonesia's Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education achieved an Unqualified Opinion (WTP) for its 2025 financial report, demonstrating strong commitment to transparent and accountable governance. The achievement, coupled with high budget absorption and positive public service indices, reflects a strategic alignment of resources towards key educational programmes. However, the article stresses that this financial milestone must translate into tangible improvements in education quality and equitable access across the nation.

Two Tax Office Officials Named Suspects in PT TPL Transfer Pricing Corruption Case

The Attorney General's Office has named two Directorate General of Taxes officials as suspects in a long-running transfer pricing corruption case involving PT Toba Pulp Lestari. The suspects, identified as BP and SR, allegedly supervised the tax audit of the company, which is accused of under-invoicing its exports of paper grade pulp. The alleged corruption spans the period from 2008 to 2025.

MSCI Index Response: GOTO Affirms Solid Fundamentals and Profitability

GoTo has responded to MSCI's decision to remove its shares from the Global Standard Indexes, attributing the move to technical factors such as low share price and trading volume rather than company performance. The firm highlighted its second consecutive quarter of net profit, reaching Rp252 billion, and a record adjusted group EBITDA exceeding Rp1 trillion. GoTo remains listed on major Indonesia Stock Exchange indices like LQ45 and IDX30, and plans to maintain dialogue with MSCI.

LRT Jabodebek Officers Foil Cable Theft Attempt at Cawang Station

Security officers at the LRT Jabodebek successfully thwarted an attempt to steal grounding cables at Cawang Station on Wednesday night. The suspect was apprehended after being detected via CCTV surveillance and has been handed over to the East Jakarta Police for legal proceedings. The operator emphasised that such vital components are crucial for operational safety and reliability.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Clarifies Istiqlal Mosque's Role in Sharia Stock Waqf Movement

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs has clarified that the Istiqlal Mosque's involvement in the 'Yuk Wakaf Saham' (Let's Waqf Stocks) movement is as a recipient of donated sharia shares, not as an entity conducting an initial public offering. The ministry emphasised that no mosque funds are used for stock trading, and all dividends from the productive waqf assets will be channelled to community social programmes. The initiative, supported by a fatwa from the National Sharia Board and regulated by the Indonesian Waqf Board and the Financial Services Authority, aims to broaden inclusive sharia economic literacy.

Bali Police Arrest Man for Distributing 800 Grams of Methamphetamine

Bali police have arrested a 35-year-old man from Jember, East Java, for allegedly distributing over 831 grams of methamphetamine and 10 grams of cannabis. The suspect was apprehended in a homestay in Denpasar following a public tip-off about frequent drug transactions in the area. He faces up to 20 years in prison under Indonesia's narcotics law.

Cimahi Residents Erect 'For Sale' Signs in Unison to Protest Local Government

Residents of the Melong Green Garden complex in Cimahi, West Java, have staged a unique protest by simultaneously placing 'For Sale' signs on their homes. The action is a response to the local government's alleged failure to address their long-standing complaints about a nearby chocolate factory. The residents claim the factory, which they say was initially permitted as a warehouse, has caused pollution and health issues since 2016, and its expansion now violates buffer zone regulations.

BPK urges Transport Ministry to prepare adaptive governance for 'Government 5.0'

Indonesia's Audit Board (BPK) has called on the Ministry of Transport to develop adaptive governance systems in line with the 'Government 5.0' concept, which emphasises data-driven decision-making and proactive risk management. The BPK stressed that financial reports should serve as strategic instruments for effective public policy, not merely accountability documents. The audit body also noted that 88.47% of its previous recommendations to the ministry have been implemented.

Prabowo to TNI-Polri: 'No Other Ambition Except to Serve the People'

President Prabowo Subianto has praised the Indonesian military and police for constructing thousands of bridges and clean water sources across the country, highlighting their direct contribution to easing public hardship. He stated that the initiative proves the security forces have no other ambition than to serve the nation and its people. The president also urged that grand national development plans should not overshadow attention to small-scale community needs.

Gov't allocates US$232 million for National Internship Program

The Indonesian government has allocated Rp4.14 trillion (US$232 million) for the second phase of its National Internship Program, which has placed 46,160 participants in private companies and government institutions. The programme attracted over 732,000 applicants, highlighting strong demand among graduates for work experience. Officials noted that 26 percent of interns from the first phase received job offers, underscoring the initiative's role in bridging education and employment.

Lawyers in Bali Chicken Thief Death Case Highlight Possible Involvement of Outsiders

The legal team for residents of Banjar Juwuk Legi in Bali, who are suspects in the fatal assault of a chicken thief, has raised concerns about the potential involvement of individuals from outside the village. They claim to have witness statements suggesting outsiders also participated in the beating, questioning how they arrived at the scene in the middle of the night. The lawyers are urging police to investigate the roles of all parties objectively and have also applied for the suspects' detention to be suspended.

Many Gen Z Have Given Up Dreaming of Owning a Home

A growing number of Generation Z individuals in the United States are abandoning the dream of homeownership, prioritising current quality of life over long-term savings. Economic pressures, including high property prices and student debt, are redefining the traditional 'American Dream', with many young people now seeking flexibility and meaningful experiences. While the desire for property persists, the path to ownership is shifting towards alternative arrangements like co-ownership.

DPR Holds Meeting with Labour Unions to Discuss Involvement in Manpower Bill

The House of Representatives (DPR) leadership met with various labour union elements to discuss their formal involvement in the drafting of a new Manpower Bill. This follows a Constitutional Court order to separate labour affairs from the Omnibus Law, with a legislative deadline set for 31 October 2026. A coalition representing 18 confederations has already submitted a draft proposal, which DPR leaders have forwarded to the relevant commission for deliberation.

Indonesia's Strength in Competing with Thailand and Others to Attract Tech Giant Investment

Indonesia is actively enhancing its competitiveness to attract major technology investments, rivalling neighbours like Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia. The government is leveraging the region's booming digital economy, projected to reach trillions of dollars by 2030, by strengthening infrastructure and critical mineral downstreaming. Key strategies include promoting renewable energy availability and highlighting recent investments from firms like Bytedance.

Former BJB President Director, a Suspect in Advertising Procurement Corruption Case, Questioned by KPK Today

Yuddy Renaldi, the former President Director of Bank BJB, appeared before Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) investigators today as a suspect in a graft case involving advertising procurement. The case, spanning the 2021-2023 fiscal years, concerns the alleged misappropriation of a Rp 409 billion advertising budget, resulting in state losses estimated at Rp 222 billion. Four other suspects, including a former corporate secretary and several agency directors, were detained earlier this week.

Starving Black Panther with Injured Leg Enters Residential Area in Batang

A starving black panther with an injured leg was evacuated from a residential area in Batang, Central Java, after entering homes and chicken coops in search of food. A joint team from the Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA), Taman Safari Beach Batang, and local authorities successfully sedated the animal. The panther is now receiving medical treatment at a conservation facility.

Pertamina-Fostered SMEs Record IDR 8.57 Billion Turnover in First Half of 2026

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) under Pertamina's guidance achieved a combined turnover of IDR 8.57 billion in the first half of 2026 through participation in various regional, national, and international exhibitions. The state-owned energy company facilitated market access, provided business training, and helped secure 2,822 certifications to enhance product standards and consumer trust. Pertamina's Vice President of Corporate Communication emphasised the company's role as an enabler in building a robust ecosystem for SME growth, aligning with national sustainable development goals.

BNN Seizes Cannabis, Firearms, and Luxury Cars from Drug Lord in Kampung Bahari

Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has seized cannabis, firearms, and luxury vehicles following a raid on a drug kingpin in North Jakarta. The operation to arrest the suspect, known as MR, was met with violent resistance from his loyalists, who attacked officers with firecrackers. The suspect was a fugitive wanted in connection with a previous seizure of 98 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine.

Pramono Confirms Jakarta LRT Velodrome-Manggarai Ready for Operation

The Jakarta provincial government has confirmed that the Velodrome-Manggarai LRT Phase 1B is ready to commence operations this month, with construction progress reaching 97.99 per cent. Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo personally inspected the route and stated that only minor signalling work remains, expected to be completed by 20 August 2026. The 12.2-kilometre line, built at a cost of Rp 12.1 trillion, will connect 11 stations across North, East, and South Jakarta.

MSCI August 2026 Review: GOTO and CPIN Removed from Indonesia Index

The MSCI August 2026 Index Review resulted in the removal of PT GoTo Gojek Tokopedia Tbk (GOTO) and PT Charoen Pokphand Indonesia Tbk (CPIN) from the MSCI Indonesia Index, with no new Indonesian stocks added. GOTO's deletion was anticipated due to low liquidity after its share price fell to the minimum Rp50, while CPIN's removal coincided with a 9.09% quarterly price decline. The changes, part of a broader global rebalancing, will take effect after market close on 31 August 2026.

BPK: Foreign Ministry's 2025 Financial Report Adequately Discloses Financial Records

The Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) has stated that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' 2025 financial report sufficiently discloses its financial records, earning an unqualified opinion (WTP). The BPK also noted the ministry has followed up on 84.58% of its recommendations. The audit is seen as a strategic instrument to strengthen governance in support of the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision.

Transjakarta Opens Special Ancol Route, Residents Can Reach the Beach for Just Rp3,500

The Jakarta Provincial Government has launched a new Transjakarta route connecting the car-free day area in Senayan to Ancol, allowing residents to travel to the coastal recreation area for a standard fare of Rp3,500. The 15ST route operates on Sundays with electric buses, aiming to shift weekend travel patterns from private vehicles to public transport. Governor Pramono Anung stated the initiative is part of a broader effort to expand public transport connectivity for recreational and sporting activities, not just work commutes.

Prabowo Proposes Candidates for Bank Indonesia Senior Deputy Governor and Deputies

President Prabowo Subianto has formally nominated four candidates for key positions on the Bank Indonesia (BI) Board of Governors. The list includes Destry Damayanti for Governor, Aida S. Budiman for Senior Deputy Governor, and Solikin M. Juhro and Anwar Bashori for Deputy Governor roles. The nominations will undergo a fit and proper test in the House of Representatives (DPR) after the parliamentary session begins on 14 August 2026.

Two Tax Office Civil Servants Named Suspects in PT TPL Corruption Case, State Losses Estimated at IDR 2 Trillion

The Attorney General's Office has named two civil servants from the Directorate General of Taxes as suspects in a corruption case involving transfer pricing at PT TPL Tbk. The suspects, identified as BP and SR, allegedly abused their authority as tax audit supervisors and accepted payments to facilitate under-invoicing of pulp exports. The scheme is estimated to have caused state losses of up to IDR 2 trillion.

If Farmers Go Bankrupt, Who Will Supply the Free Nutritious Meals?

Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme faces a fundamental challenge as poultry farmers protest collapsing prices and rising feed costs, questioning the programme's supply chain. Despite agreements in Central Java for local procurement of eggs and chicken, implementation remains inconsistent, with some kitchens still sourcing from outside the region. The situation highlights a policy paradox where a large-scale food programme fails to automatically create a healthy market for local producers.

Barata Indonesia Ships B100 Reactor to South Kalimantan to Support National Renewable Energy

State-owned manufacturer PT Barata Indonesia has dispatched a B100 biodiesel reactor to South Kalimantan, fulfilling an order from PT Paripurna Swakarsa. The equipment, used to process crude palm oil into biodiesel, is part of the company's commitment to supporting national energy resilience and the transition to renewable energy. The initiative aims to diversify energy sources and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Pertamina Awaits Regulation on Limiting Pertalite Sales to Top Economic Deciles

The Indonesian government is discussing a plan to restrict subsidised Pertalite fuel purchases for households in the top two economic deciles (desil 9 and 10). State energy firm Pertamina says it is ready to implement the policy once regulations are finalised, while the Energy Minister emphasised the move is to ensure subsidies are targeted at the needy and not wealthy car owners.

Drug Lord of Kampung Bahari Arrested in Beauty Salon

Authorities have arrested MR, known as 'Bos Gendut', a major drug lord operating in Kampung Bahari, North Jakarta. He was apprehended at a salon in Mangga Besar following a surveillance operation. The arrest led to the seizure of billions of rupiah in assets and a subsequent raid on his stronghold, where officers faced resistance from loyalists.

Air India Pilot Tests Positive for Cannabis After Flight Carrying 145 Plunges 300 Feet

An Air India pilot has tested positive for cannabis following a severe turbulence incident on a Phuket-Delhi flight that injured 17 people. The aircraft, carrying 145 passengers, suddenly dropped 300 feet over Odisha, India, in what was initially attributed to a technical fault. The pilot now faces severe sanctions, including potential dismissal, while India's Civil Aviation Minister has warned of strict action and a possible review of regulations.

BMKG Confirms Very Strong El Niño as Indonesia Braces for Severe Dry Season

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has confirmed that a very strong El Niño is currently underway, with sea surface temperature anomalies reaching +2.77°C. The agency warns that the combination of El Niño and a positive Indian Ocean Dipole will lead to a much drier than normal dry season across the country. BMKG has issued drought warnings for numerous provinces and is urging the public to conserve water and remain vigilant against forest and land fires.

Apindo Urges Real Sector Reform to Safeguard Investment

The Indonesian Employers' Association (Apindo) has called for fundamental reforms in the real sector, arguing that addressing upstream structural issues is essential to prevent layoffs and protect investment. Chairwoman Shinta W. Kamdani stressed that high production costs, logistical inefficiencies, and regulatory burdens must be resolved to maintain economic resilience amid global fragmentation. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto echoed the sentiment, highlighting the government's focus on deregulation and strategic partnerships to strengthen the investment climate.

What Is the Desil System That Will Form the Basis for Limiting Pertalite? An Explanation

The Indonesian government is preparing to use the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) and its 'Desil' system to restrict Pertalite fuel subsidies for upper economic groups. The Desil system categorises households into ten levels of welfare, from the most needy to the most affluent, to objectively determine eligibility for social assistance. This data-driven approach aims to ensure that subsidised fuel is only accessed by lower-income groups, specifically targeting a ban for those in the top two deciles.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister: TB Eradication Integrated into Regional Planning and Budgeting

The Indonesian government is reinforcing its commitment to eradicating tuberculosis by mandating its inclusion in regional development plans and budgets. Deputy Home Affairs Minister Akhmad Wiyagus stated that integrating the programme into documents like the RPJMD and APBD ensures sustainable funding and adequate resources. The ministry is also collaborating with local governments to establish health posts and village alert systems to accelerate the reduction of TB cases nationwide.

Environment Ministry pushes regions to crack down on land burning

Indonesia's Environment Ministry has issued a circular instructing regional leaders to tighten enforcement against land burning practices amid rising temperatures and prolonged dry conditions. The directive mandates strict penalties, enhanced coordination with security forces, and proactive measures such as joint patrols and peatland management to prevent toxic haze and environmental damage. The move aims to protect public health and economic sustainability by ensuring compliance with existing environmental laws.

Home Affairs Minister Invites Ministries and Agencies to Appreciate High-Performing Regional Governments

Minister of Home Affairs Tito Karnavian has encouraged other ministries and institutions to join his ministry in recognising high-performing regional governments. The initiative aims to motivate local administrations and improve public perception by highlighting successful leaders, countering negative impressions from corruption cases. The Home Affairs Ministry's awards cover health, housing, waste management, and education, with incentives including fiscal rewards and housing renovation quotas.

Hungry Leopard Strays into Batang Village, Preys on Livestock

A black panther entered a village in Batang, Central Java, and killed seven chickens, prompting a response from authorities. The animal, suspected to be starving and injured, was successfully sedated and evacuated by a joint team from the local conservation agency and a safari park.

Indonesia's Strategy to Attract Investment: Building Downstreaming with its Ecosystem

Indonesia's Investment Ministry is coupling its downstreaming policy with comprehensive ecosystem development to attract long-term global investors. The strategy focuses on guaranteeing raw material supply, attracting technology-leading 'champion' investors, and preparing human resources through vocational programmes with fiscal incentives. The government aims to ensure projects progress beyond basic processing to create complete production chains for finished goods.