Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 13 August 2026

Showing 1,201-1,250 of 1,577 articles

Perpetrator of Baby Disposal in Depok Arrested, Revealed to Be the Mother

Police in Depok have arrested a woman for disposing of her newborn baby boy in a rubbish bin on Jalan Raya Muchtar, Sawangan. The suspect, identified as the infant's biological mother, is currently undergoing interrogation. The baby's body was discovered by a witness sorting through rubbish on Tuesday morning.

Ebola Outbreak in Congo Could Become the Worst in History

The World Health Organization has warned that the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo could surpass the devastating 2014-2016 epidemic if transmission rates persist. The outbreak, caused by the rare Bundibugyo strain for which there is no approved vaccine, has been complicated by regional instability that limits health workers' access to cases. A glimmer of hope has emerged as UK regulators have approved the first human trial of a new vaccine developed by the University of Oxford.

BNI Strengthens HR Development with Certification and International Standards

State-owned bank BNI has secured a professional certification licence and two international standards for its Corporate University, bolstering its human resources governance. The achievements include a BNSP licence for its Professional Certification Body and ISO certifications for learning management systems. This move aligns with the broader transformation of state-owned enterprises to enhance competitiveness and professional standards.

National Police Chief Inaugurates Bayah Bridge in Lebak, Benefiting 8,000 Residents

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo inaugurated the Merah Putih Presisi Bridge in Bayah, Lebak, Banten, as part of a nationwide programme. The bridge connects two villages and directly benefits 8,000 residents by improving access for agriculture, trade, and education. The event was part of a larger hybrid ceremony marking the completion of thousands of infrastructure projects by the police and military.

Ministries collaborate on home renovations for stunting-risk families

The Housing and Settlement Areas Ministry has allocated 3,000 home renovation units for families at risk of stunting, exceeding the initial proposal of 2,000 units. The initiative, discussed with the Population and Family Development Ministry, targets unlivable housing as a key factor in stunting, with 8.1 million families identified in the category. Requirements for aid recipients have been simplified, including reducing the minimum occupancy period for unlivable homes from three years to one year.

Prabowo Praises Police Chief Sigit: Reaching the Top of the Police Force Through Achievement

President Prabowo Subianto has publicly commended National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo for his leadership and dedication, particularly highlighting the force's construction of 895 bridges across remote areas. The President expressed personal pride and gratitude for the police's round-the-clock efforts to deliver tangible benefits to the most isolated communities. He stressed that the state's presence must be felt by all citizens, not just those in major economic centres.

Top Business and Labour Leaders Meet, Plan Overseas Study Trip for Manpower Bill

Indonesian business and labour leaders have agreed to form a joint drafting team for the new Manpower Bill, seeking a balanced approach to protect workers while boosting investment. Both sides also plan a comparative study trip to Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines to examine their industrial relations frameworks. The joint draft is targeted for completion by the end of August before being submitted to the House of Representatives.

Video: Energy Subsidy Reform โ€” Its Impact on the State Budget, Purchasing Power, and Competitiveness

Indonesia's energy subsidy and compensation bill is projected to soar to Rp 526 trillion by the end of 2026, driven by import dependency and rising consumption. Experts argue that reforming these subsidies is crucial to easing the state budget burden and redirecting funds towards more productive sectors like infrastructure. They also highlight that falling renewable energy technology costs present an opportunity to make clean power more competitive and attract global investment.

Oil Prices Dip, but Global Supply Faces Deepening Deficit

Global oil prices edged lower on Thursday morning but remained near multi-week highs as the market assessed a stark warning from the International Energy Agency (IEA). The agency has forecast a deepening global supply deficit driven by renewed conflict in the Middle East, which is severely disrupting shipping and production. The IEA now projects a quarterly deficit of 1.8 million barrels per day, the largest since late 2021.

Pramono Targets Kali Cakung Lama Normalisation Completion by 2028

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has set a 2028 deadline for the normalisation of Kali Cakung Lama, a project expected to reduce flooding in Kelapa Gading and Cilincing by up to 20 percent. The governor noted that floodwaters in the area can currently reach thigh-high levels and that a key bottleneck at Kampung Begog will be addressed soon. The Water Resources Agency aims to complete 2.6 kilometres of the riverbank works by March 2027.

Negative Covenant: The Limits on Entrepreneurs' Actions After Obtaining Financing

This opinion piece examines the often-overlooked impact of negative covenants in credit agreements, which restrict corporate actions like taking on new debt or selling assets without lender consent. It argues that while these clauses protect banks, they can also stifle business growth if not carefully negotiated. The author advises entrepreneurs to scrutinise these contractual prohibitions as closely as the loan amount itself to avoid inadvertent default.

Finance Minister Highlights Suspected Rp3 Trillion Leakage at Container Depots

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has raised concerns over a potential economic leakage of up to Rp3 trillion from the empty container depot business. He has called for an investigation into the disparity in lift-on/lift-off service tariffs between depots outside and inside port areas. The government aims to standardise regulations and optimise this economic value domestically, which is also expected to support small businesses and ease pressure on the rupiah.

Tasting Palestinian Shawarma in Ubud

A new Palestinian shawarma dish has been introduced at a restaurant in Ubud, Bali, replacing a previous kebab menu. The dish, featuring pita bread with fillings like cauliflower, pickles, and chicken, has already sparked controversy after receiving a one-star review from a user believed to be Israeli.

Deputy Minister Supports Wastra Fashion Expansion into Regional Markets

Indonesia's Deputy Minister for Creative Economy, Irene Umar, is backing a community-driven initiative to bring local wastra fashion festivals to Malaysia and Singapore. The expansion aims to boost public awareness and open new markets for Indonesian textile brands across Southeast Asia. The government sees this as a key step in strengthening the creative economy ecosystem, particularly in the design, fashion, and craft sub-sectors.

MPR PR Chief Budi Muliawan Urges Unified Narrative for 2026 Annual Session Publicity

The Head of Public Relations at the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), Budi Muliawan, has called for cross-institutional government PR synergy to ensure a single, coherent narrative for the 2026 Annual Session. He highlighted the growing challenge of AI-generated disinformation and stressed the importance of presenting the parliamentary proceedings to the public in their entirety. A dedicated QR code and integrated information channels have been prepared to facilitate the dissemination of official content from the three legislative bodies involved.

Bandar Lampung City Government Wins Award for Supporting 3 Million Homes Programme

The Bandar Lampung City Government has received an award for its support of the national 3 Million Homes Programme at a regional event in Batam. The award recognises the city's efforts in easing regulations, providing fiscal incentives, and fostering collaboration to deliver affordable housing. As part of the achievement, the city will receive government assistance for 300 self-help housing units.

National Police Chief: 874 bridges built across 30 regions, aiding access for 2 million residents

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo inaugurated a suspension bridge in Lebak, Banten, as part of a nationwide programme that has completed 874 bridges across 30 regional police jurisdictions. The initiative aims to improve transport access for approximately two million people, including schoolchildren, farmers, and small business owners. The largest number of bridges was built in Banten, where 145 structures now serve half a million residents.

Prabowo Submits Four Names for Bank Indonesia Board of Governors

President Prabowo Subianto has formally proposed four candidates to fill positions on the Bank Indonesia Board of Governors following the resignation of Governor Perry Warjiyo. The list, dominated by internal central bank technocrats, signals a focus on policy continuity. The House of Representatives will begin the fit and proper test process after the parliamentary session opens on 14 August 2026.

Erdogan Accuses Israel of Trying to Erase Palestine from the World Agenda

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has accused Benjamin Netanyahu's government of attempting to remove Palestine from the global agenda by exploiting regional chaos. Erdogan made the remarks during a joint press conference with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Ankara, vowing that Turkey would continue to fight for the establishment of a Palestinian state. The two leaders also discussed upcoming Palestinian elections, which Erdogan hopes will advance the reconciliation process.

Economist Urges Policy Consistency to Attract Investors and Boost 2026 Growth

Indonesia's economy grew 5.29% in the second quarter of 2026, but faces headwinds from global volatility and a trade deficit. Bank Mandiri's chief economist highlights the need for consistent policy to bolster investor confidence and suggests boosting agricultural exports. The government's programmes and rising investment are currently supporting growth, though private sector recovery remains tentative.

BGN, Ministry boost nutrition literacy for teachers

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is collaborating with the Ministry of Education to enhance nutrition literacy among teachers as part of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The initiative aims to train over 658,000 educators in Jakarta, West Java, and Banten, emphasising that the programme's success depends not only on food distribution but also on education about balanced nutrition, food safety, and healthy living habits. Officials highlighted the strategic role of teachers in instilling these habits in students, with the broader goal of fostering a healthier and more intelligent generation.

BNN Raids Kampung Bahari in North Jakarta, Drug Lord's Mob Fights Back

Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) conducted a raid in Kampung Bahari, Tanjung Priok, North Jakarta, on Thursday, leading to a violent confrontation with supporters of a suspected drug kingpin. The operation, which involved the pursuit of a suspect identified as MR, was met with resistance as a mob attacked officers with fireworks. The ensuing chaos also disrupted commuter train services, causing delays of up to 30 minutes.

Prabowo Inaugurates 3,395 Bridges and 3,000 Clean Water Sources Built by TNI-Polri

President Prabowo Subianto has officially inaugurated 3,395 bridges and 3,000 clean water sources constructed by the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and National Police (Polri) across various regions. The President expressed his deep appreciation and pride, highlighting the projects as tangible proof of the security forces' dedication to serving the people. He emphasised that the initiative demonstrates the TNI and Polri's role as true people's forces.

Jakarta Provincial Government Prepares Entertainment Stage in Kota Tua for Independence Day

The Jakarta Provincial Government is organising public entertainment stages in the Kota Tua area to celebrate the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence. Governor Pramono Anung stated that while the main official ceremonies remain the domain of the central government at the State Palace, the province is providing full support. The local administration is also preparing community competitions and a people's party to enliven the atmosphere.

Teenager Stabbed by Unknown Assailant in Tangerang, Brimob Officers Assist Evacuation

A teenage boy was found injured in Teluknaga, Tangerang, after allegedly being stabbed by an unknown assailant. Mobile Brigade (Brimob) personnel from the Metro Jaya Police discovered the victim during a patrol and provided immediate assistance, transporting him to hospital. The police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any criminal activity.

Gold Prices for Three Brands at Pegadaian Rise in Unison on Thursday

Gold prices for Galeri24, Antam, and UBS brands at Indonesia's state-owned pawnshop Pegadaian all increased on Thursday. The price of Antam gold rose to Rp2,808,000 per gram, while Galeri24 and UBS reached Rp2,687,000 and Rp2,747,000 per gram respectively. The increases reflect ongoing movements in the domestic precious metals market.

Prabowo Inaugurates 3,395 TNI/Polri Bridges and 3,000 Clean Water Sources

President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated 3,395 bridges built by the TNI and Polri, along with 3,000 clean water sources provided by the Army, in a virtual ceremony centred in Lebak, Banten. The infrastructure programme aims to improve rural connectivity, providing access to education, healthcare, and economic centres for millions of Indonesians. The President urged communities to maintain the new assets, which are expected to benefit approximately 2 million people through the bridge projects alone.

Islamic Finance Deemed Less Aggressive in Capturing Market

Indonesia's Islamic financial inclusion rate has slightly declined, highlighting the sector's struggle to compete with the aggressive expansion of conventional finance. An economist notes that limited penetration, a concentrated banking structure, and the dominance of conventional services in government aid programs are key obstacles. The industry is urged to pursue mergers, attract foreign investment, and secure a larger role in public programs to broaden its reach.

Menpora Erick: Thank You for President Prabowo's Trust in Kemenpora Transformation

Minister of Youth and Sports Erick Thohir expressed gratitude for President Prabowo Subianto's trust in allowing bureaucratic transformation within the ministry. He highlighted that the ministry's performance has improved to 83 percent according to the Ministry of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform. The ministry also received an unqualified opinion (WTP) from the Supreme Audit Agency, indicating positive results from internal reforms.

Home Affairs Minister Says Appreciation for High-Performing Regions Balances Guidance

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian stated that the Regional Government Achievement Appreciation event serves as a counterbalance to the ministry's continuous oversight and directives. The second batch of the 2026 awards, launched in Batam, recognises local governments for their performance in health services, housing, waste management, and education. The initiative aims to motivate all regions to improve their governance and public service delivery.

Gapki: Worker Protection Contributes Positively to Palm Oil Industry

The Indonesian Palm Oil Association (Gapki) asserts that improving worker safety and health standards is a strategic investment that boosts productivity and strengthens the industry's global competitiveness. The implementation of occupational health and safety (K3) is considered integral to sustainability certifications like ISPO and RSPO. Stakeholders urge consistent application of these standards across all operations, including smallholder plantations, to enhance worker welfare and business continuity.

Supreme Court Candidate Tells DPR 2025 Tax Revenue Will Miss Target

A candidate for the Supreme Court's tax chamber has warned Indonesian lawmakers that tax revenue for 2025 will fall short of the state budget target, despite year-on-year growth. Hari Sih Advianto highlighted the country's low tax ratio and called for strengthened fiscal justice and modernisation of tax administration. He emphasised the need to redesign tax regulations to ensure legal certainty and maintain public trust.

Karangetang Lava Flow Reaches 1,000 Metres, Residents Urged to Remain Vigilant

Mount Karangetang in North Sulawesi has expelled a lava flow extending an estimated 1,000 metres towards Kali Sumpihi, according to the local volcano observation post. The flow remains within the designated danger zone, but authorities have warned residents to stay alert. The volcano's status remains at Level II (Alert), with a recommended exclusion radius of up to 2.5 kilometres from the northern crater.

Aceh Police Officer Dismissed for Distributing 'Vibrating Vape' Containing Narcotics

The Aceh Regional Police have dishonourably discharged an officer, identified as Abripda RF, for his involvement in distributing vape cartridges containing the narcotic etomidate. A second officer, Ipda FJ, received a ten-year demotion for procedural negligence during the arrest operation that led to the accidental shooting death of an Indonesian Army soldier. The police force has reiterated a zero-tolerance policy towards drug offences and will conduct regular internal inspections, including urine and vape tests.

National Nutrition Agency Chief Orders Return of Substandard Free Meals, Vows Kitchen Inspections

The Head of Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sudaryono, has mandated that any substandard food from the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme be immediately returned to the supplying kitchen. He stressed that food safety is a priority and that teachers must conduct organoleptic checks before distribution. The agency has also established a dedicated email channel for teachers to report complaints and findings directly to the BGN.

CPO Export Manipulation Case Allegedly Costing State Rp7.3 Trillion to Go to Trial

The Central Jakarta District Court has registered 11 cases related to the alleged manipulation of crude palm oil (CPO) exports, which is estimated to have caused state losses of Rp7.3 trillion. The defendants include a former customs official, a policy analyst, and several directors of palm oil companies. The first hearing is scheduled for 18 August 2026 at the Corruption Court.

Trump says security threat prompted aircraft switch in Turkey

Former US President Donald Trump has revealed that a security threat forced him to secretly switch aircraft while departing Turkey after a NATO summit. He stated that he was following the directives of the Secret Service and the military. Reports indicate he left Air Force One via a catering truck and boarded a smaller US Air Force plane without the knowledge of senior officials and journalists on board.

National Police Chief Details 895 Bridges Built, Most in Banten

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has inaugurated the construction and revitalisation of 895 'Merah Putih Presisi' bridges across 30 regional police jurisdictions. Banten recorded the highest number with 145 bridges, connecting 23 villages and benefiting 500,000 residents. The overall programme has linked 1,314 villages and provided access for approximately two million people, including schoolchildren, farmers, and small business owners.

Chinese and Indonesian Navies Complete Joint Exercise East of Taiwan

The Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy and the Indonesian Navy have concluded a joint passing exercise in waters east of Taiwan. The drill, involving the Chinese vessel Honghe and Indonesia's KRI I Gusti Ngurah Rai-332, included communication, manoeuvring, and replenishment at sea. Both sides stated the exercise demonstrated a commitment to pragmatic cooperation and maintaining regional peace and stability.

JCI Falls Over 1% as MSCI Rebalancing Triggers Broad Sell-Off

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) slumped more than 1% on Thursday, driven by a broad sell-off after MSCI announced its August 2026 index review. While the direct removal of several small-cap stocks triggered the decline, heavy selling in large-cap banking and basic industry shares, including transactions worth over Rp1.8 trillion in just four stocks, deepened the market's losses.

Passenger Data for KMP Putri Yasmin Remains Confusing, Five People Still Missing

Authorities are struggling to reconcile conflicting passenger data following the fire aboard the KMP Putri Yasmin ferry. Five individuals remain unaccounted for, while investigations reveal a discrepancy of up to 56 people between the official manifest and the actual number of people on board. The search and rescue operation continues in the waters between Lombok and Bali.

Toll Road Association Pushes for Private Sector Involvement to Boost Quality and Service

The Indonesian Toll Road Association (ATI) is advocating for greater private sector participation to enhance the quality and sustainability of the nation's toll road infrastructure. During a focus group discussion, stakeholders including government ministers and economists emphasised the need for attractive investment models and regulatory certainty, given the constrained state budget. The forum highlighted that accelerating toll road development, which has seen over Rp 668 trillion in accumulated investment, is crucial for national connectivity and economic growth.

Road Repairs Underway to Kelingking Beach in Nusa Penida, Residents Urged to Be Patient

The Klungkung Regency Government has commenced a Rp 2.989 billion road maintenance project to improve access to the popular tourist destinations of Kelingking Beach and Crystal Bay in Nusa Penida, Bali. The 0.9-kilometre project includes hotmix asphalt paving, drainage construction, and shoulder repairs. Officials have asked residents and tourists to exercise caution and patience during the construction period, which is part of a broader, multi-billion rupiah infrastructure push across the Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan islands.

BNNP Central Java Raids Tegal Nightspot, Nine Test Positive for Narcotics

A joint operation by the Central Java Provincial National Narcotics Agency (BNNP) and BNN Tegal City at a billiard hall and cafe resulted in nine individuals testing positive for methamphetamine and ecstasy. The raid, which included urine tests and a search of the premises, also uncovered ecstasy pills, used methamphetamine sachets, and drug paraphernalia. Officials stated the action underscores their commitment to eradicating drug abuse in entertainment venues and safeguarding the community.

The Importance of Balancing Commodity Supply and Demand

A senior Indonesian official has stressed the need to balance mineral and energy commodity supply with market demand to ensure domestic value addition. The government aims to prevent resources from being limited to upstream production by developing downstream industries and securing clear offtakers. The newly formed Danantara investment body is expected to play a key role in accelerating strategic sector investments.

Sharia Banking Called Too Slow in Expanding Access as Inclusion Drops

Indonesia's sharia financial inclusion rate has fallen to 13.24 percent, despite a literacy rate of 43.07 percent, indicating a significant gap between public understanding and actual access to services. INDEF's Handi Risza argues that sharia banks are too concentrated in major cities and lack the aggressive outreach of conventional banks. He urges the industry to shift from a passive approach to actively expanding physical and digital networks to capture the already literate market.

UI Encourages Professors' Contribution to Nation and State

The University of Indonesia's Board of Professors held a grand assembly to strengthen collaboration among its 478 professors, aiming to enhance their role in national development and policy-making. The forum focused on fostering multidisciplinary research and positioning professors as academic leaders to help solve the nation's problems. The rector emphasised that professors should serve as 'teachers of the nation', providing data-driven analysis and solutions to societal and governmental challenges.

Residents Protest Dust from Roadworks in Parungpanjang, Briefly Block Project Trucks

Residents of Jagabaya village in Bogor, West Java, temporarily blocked a road and turned back trucks to protest excessive dust caused by ongoing road repairs. The police facilitated a meeting between the community and the private contractor, resulting in an agreement to increase water spraying and accelerate the project's completion to October.

UN Calls for Negotiations to Resolve Gulf and Red Sea Conflicts

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged dialogue to achieve a comprehensive settlement to conflicts in the Gulf region and the Red Sea. The UN believes only negotiations can restore stability and protect freedom of navigation in strategic waterways like the Strait of Hormuz. The organisation also warned that disruptions to shipping off Yemen's coast are hampering vital aid deliveries to the war-torn country.

Registration Still Open for 4 Categories of DPD RI Awards 2026

The Regional Representative Council (DPD RI) is accepting nominations for its 2026 awards until 21 August, honouring individuals who have made significant contributions in education, health technology, food security, and cultural preservation. The initiative aims to recognise unsung local heroes whose work drives regional development and inspires communities across Indonesia. DPD RI Chairman Sultan B Najamudin emphasised that the awards highlight the importance of local initiatives in national progress.