Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 13 August 2026

Showing 1,301-1,350 of 1,577 articles

MSCI Overhauls Indexes, 10 Indonesian Shares Removed

MSCI's August 2026 index review has resulted in the removal of ten Indonesian shares from its global benchmarks. PT Charoen Pokphand Indonesia and PT GoTo Gojek Tokopedia were deleted from the MSCI Global Standard Indexes, while nine other companies, including Bank Jago and Bukalapak, were removed from the MSCI Global Small Cap Indexes. The changes, which also see CPIN added to the Small Cap Index, will take effect after market close on 31 August 2026.

KMP Putri Yasmin Fire: Transport Minister Orders Focus on Passenger Search

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has expressed deep condolences and ordered search and rescue teams to prioritise locating and evacuating passengers following a fire on the KMP Putri Yasmin ferry in Balinese waters. A discrepancy between the official manifest of 114 passengers and the 173 people found has prompted a comprehensive investigation into unreported passenger additions. The government has assured that all victims will receive full compensation, including medical costs and vehicle replacement.

Agriculture Ministry Strengthens Licensing Assistance for Local MSMEs in Sukabumi

The Indonesian Ministry of Agriculture, through its Plant Variety Protection and Agricultural Licensing Centre (PVTPP), is intensifying support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the agricultural sector. The initiative focuses on simplifying business licensing for fertiliser registration and providing technical guidance on producing quality organic fertiliser. The programme aims to enhance regulatory compliance, promote the use of local resources, and strengthen the agricultural business ecosystem in Sukabumi, West Java.

Derelict Evacuation Barracks in Sleman's Koripan Fall Victim to Vandalism and Neglect

Evacuation barracks in Koripan, Sleman, built for Merapi eruption refugees, have fallen into disrepair due to vandalism and collapsed ceilings. The local disaster mitigation agency (BPBD) cites the remote location and budget refocusing as reasons for the neglect, noting that nearly all 12 barracks require costly repairs. Officials are urging the public to utilise and maintain the facilities for community events to prevent further deterioration.

BNI Strengthens HR Governance Through LSP and ISO Certification

PT Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) has reinforced its human resource governance by officially operating its licensed Professional Certification Institute (LSP) and securing international standards for its Corporate University. The state-owned bank obtained an LSP licence from the National Professional Certification Agency (BNSP), along with ISO 21001:2018 certification and ISO 30422:2022 compliance. This move aims to ensure employee competency is measured and relevant to the banking industry's needs, supporting the company's business transformation.

Strategy to Reduce Congestion at Tanjung Priok Port

Jakarta International Container Terminal (JICT) is promoting its Dual Move scheme to boost logistics efficiency by allowing trucks to handle both export drop-offs and import pick-ups in a single visit. The initiative aims to increase terminal productivity and alleviate traffic congestion around Indonesia's busiest port. Regulators have voiced support, emphasising that modernising port governance is crucial for improving the nation's distribution flow and competitiveness.

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

Minister of Home Affairs Tito Karnavian has called on other ministries and institutions to join his department in recognising high-performing regional governments. He believes that providing awards, such as the recent event in Batam, serves as a strong motivator for local administrations and helps highlight successful leaders. The initiative includes non-fiscal incentives like housing renovation quotas and aims to counter negative public perceptions caused by legal issues involving some regional heads.

Hundreds of Mining-Sector-Assisted MSMEs Enliven Kalsel Expo 2026

Hundreds of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) fostered by mining companies are showcasing their products at the Kalsel Expo 2026 in Banjarbaru, South Kalimantan. The event, part of the province's 76th anniversary celebrations, features participants such as PT Adaro Indonesia and PT Arutmin Indonesia, who report that their mentoring programmes have successfully boosted local economic independence. The expo provides a platform for these businesses to expand their market reach and introduce regional specialities to a wider audience.

Government and Private Sector Urged to Collaborate on Toll Road Investment to Ease State Budget Burden

The Indonesian government and the Indonesian Toll Road Association (ATI) have agreed to strengthen the national toll road investment ecosystem. The strategic move aims to increase private sector financing and reduce reliance on the State Budget (APBN). Experts stress that regulatory certainty and government commitment to contracts are crucial to attracting private and foreign investment.

Defence Equipment Acquisition: The Dimming of Direct Procurement Schemes

Indonesia's Ministry of Defence is increasingly reverting to using brokers for arms imports, a practice reminiscent of the New Order era, despite having direct diplomatic and defence attaché ties with supplier nations. This shift marks a departure from the standard Direct Commercial Sales model, where contracts are made directly with original equipment manufacturers. The use of foreign private creditors to finance these brokered deals raises questions about procurement efficiency and transparency.

Antam Gold Price Rises by Rp20,000 to Rp2.7 Million per Gram

The price of gold produced by state miner Aneka Tambang (Antam) increased by Rp20,000 to Rp2.7 million per gram on Thursday. The buyback price also rose to Rp2.546 million per gram. Transactions above Rp10 million are subject to a 1.5 per cent income tax, while purchases are taxed at 0.25 per cent.

KAI Offers 17% Discount and Rp8 Fares for Independence Day

State-owned railway operator PT KAI is celebrating Indonesia's 81st Independence Day with a 17% discount on long-distance economy class tickets and a special Rp8 fare for LRT Jabodebek and Commuter Line services on 17 August 2026. The promotion aims to broaden public access to transportation during the national holiday. A total of 67,120 discounted seats are available for purchase from 14 to 17 August 2026.

Acwa and PT Garam Sign Joint Development Agreement for USD 400 Million Integrated Desalination and Industrial Salt Facility in Gresik

Saudi-listed Acwa and Indonesian state-owned PT Garam have signed a joint development agreement for a USD 400 million integrated seawater desalination and industrial salt production facility in Manyar, Gresik, East Java. The project aims to produce 62,500 cubic metres of desalinated water daily and 500,000 tonnes of high-purity industrial salt annually, reducing Indonesia's reliance on imports. The agreement, witnessed by Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani, includes provisions for technology transfer and training to support domestic industrial self-sufficiency.

Central Kalimantan Governor Accelerates Internet Access Equity in Remote Areas, Grants Thousands of Starlink Units

The Central Kalimantan provincial government is distributing thousands of Starlink satellite internet devices to bridge the digital divide in remote villages. Governor Agustiar Sabran stated the initiative aims to improve access to education, healthcare, public services, and economic opportunities. The programme is part of a broader commitment to ensure no village is left behind in the province's digital transformation.

Kusamba and Gelgel Villagers Hold Megibung Feast by the Sea

Hundreds of residents from Kampung Kusamba and Kampung Gelgel in Klungkung, Bali, gathered on Kusamba Beach to perform the annual Saparan tradition, featuring communal prayers and a shared feast known as megibung. The event, held at the end of the Islamic month of Safar, is intended to seek safety and express gratitude while reinforcing inter-community harmony. The tradition is currently being assessed for official recognition as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage (WBTB) in 2026.

Fire Erupts Along Bromo's JLKT Route, Seruni Point Closed as Precaution

A fire has broken out along the Jalur Lingkar Kaldera Tengger (JLKT) route in the Bromo area, prompting a rapid response from joint teams to prevent it from spreading to the Seruni Point tourist destination. Authorities have temporarily closed Seruni Point to ensure visitor safety as the blaze continues to burn and spread. Firefighting efforts are being led by local police using a forest fire truck from the East Java Police.

Lawyer's Testimony as Sutrimo's Grave Exhumed by Police

The exhumation of Sutrimo, a former household staff member of an ex-official, was carried out by police to clarify the cause of his death, which has been deemed suspicious. The family's lawyer confirmed the body was intact and expressed hope the forensic examination would provide certainty. The legal team for the former official has requested the death not be linked to any ongoing legal cases.

Indonesia's Nitrogen Oxide Emissions Surge 50%, 29 Pollution Hotspots Detected

Nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions in Indonesia have risen by more than 50 per cent since 2010, driven by transport, industry, and a rapid expansion of coal-based nickel processing. A new study by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) has identified 29 NOx hotspots across the archipelago, triple the number found in previous global research. Experts warn the pollution is no longer confined to major cities, with rural communities near industrial and mining sites now facing severe health risks from poor air quality.

AceKid Introduces One-Step Fresh Technology in Children's Milk

AceKid has launched a new children's milk product in Indonesia, claiming to be the first to use fresh milk processed with a proprietary One-Step Fresh method. The company emphasises the use of traceable milk sources from the 47th parallel north and a simple composition free from maltodextrin, synthetic flavours, sucrose, and corn syrup. A leading paediatric expert highlighted the importance of parents understanding the full composition of nutritional products, beyond just prominent claims, to ensure responsible choices for children's health.

Herman Deru Confirms Egg Supply to Support Free Nutritious Meal Programme in South Sumatra

South Sumatra Governor Herman Deru inspected a large-scale poultry farm to ensure regional egg stocks are sufficient for the national Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The farm produces up to 20 tonnes of eggs daily, a capacity deemed adequate to meet programme demands without disrupting household supplies. The initiative is also expected to boost the local economy through job creation and supply chain strengthening.

Pekanbaru Wins Second Place in 3 Million Homes Programme, Receives Grant to Renovate 250 Houses

The Pekanbaru municipal government has secured second place in the implementation of the national 3 Million Homes Programme at a regional awards event in Batam. The accolade, presented by the Ministry of Home Affairs, includes a grant to renovate 250 uninhabitable houses for local residents. Mayor Agung Nugroho dedicated the award to the community and emphasised that the tangible benefits for citizens are more important than the trophy itself.

Diverging Fortunes for Asian Currencies: Rupiah Weakest, Won and Yen Soar

Asian currencies showed mixed performance against the US dollar following US inflation data that eased immediate rate hike fears. The Indonesian rupiah was the region's worst performer, while the South Korean won led gains. Market attention remains focused on energy prices and the Federal Reserve's policy outlook.

Cuan Class 'Unveils' Tips for Profiting from Tech Stock Investments

CNBC Indonesia's Stock Market Analyst, Susi Setiawati, suggests the Indonesian capital market remains attractive despite potential corrections in August 2026, with the technology sector showing strong signs of recovery. She notes that investors are now prioritising fundamental performance and profitability over mere user growth, marking a new phase for the industry. The shift is exemplified by companies like GoTo, which has recorded consecutive quarterly net profits.

GOTO's Exit from MSCI Index Sounds Alarm on Indonesian Capital Market Quality

The removal of GoTo from the MSCI Global Standard Indexes and Charoen Pokphand Indonesia's demotion to the Small Cap Index are being viewed as a serious warning about the liquidity and investability of Indonesian stocks. Analysts argue the issue has shifted from market size to fundamental accessibility for institutional investors. The changes are expected to trigger portfolio adjustments and could exacerbate foreign capital outflows.

Drug Lord in Kampung Bahari Arrested, Loyalists Put Up a Fight

The National Narcotics Agency (BNN) and police have arrested a drug lord, identified as MR, in Kampung Bahari, North Jakarta. The arrest triggered a violent backlash from his loyalists, who attacked officers with stones and firecrackers. Authorities managed to subdue the resistance using tear gas and have taken several suspects into custody.

Prices of Rice, Shallots, Beef, and Sugar Rise; Check the Full List

The National Strategic Food Price Information Centre (PIHPS) reported a mixed bag for staple food prices, with increases observed in shallots, garlic, beef, and certain rice varieties. Meanwhile, consumers saw some relief as prices for chicken eggs, fresh chicken meat, and several types of chillies recorded declines. The data reflects the latest fluctuations in the cost of essential commodities across Indonesia.

Cilegon City Encourages Local MSMEs to Penetrate International Markets

Cilegon City is actively supporting its micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to expand their market reach, with plans to introduce local products in The Hague, Netherlands. The initiative involves collaboration between the government, business owners, and industry to enhance product quality, ensure legal compliance, and broaden marketing access. A local regulation mandates that 30 percent of MSME products must be available in industries, restaurants, and cafes within the city.

House Member Urges Acceleration of SOE Streamlining: 'Don't Waste the People's Money'

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called for the swift and precise streamlining of state-owned enterprises to eliminate inefficiency. The legislator stressed that the restructuring is essential to prevent subsidiary companies with no clear function from draining public resources. The push aligns with the government's broader agenda to create leaner, more adaptive, and productive state corporations.

Chief Justice Urges Constitutional Court Staff to Uphold Public Trust and Resist Improper Influence

Chief Justice Suhartoyo called on all Constitutional Court personnel to safeguard the institution's integrity and public trust during its 23rd anniversary ceremony. He stressed the importance of personal discipline and resistance to external influence as foundational to maintaining the court's independent and professional standing. The court also reported that 85 per cent of case filings this year have been submitted online, reflecting improved transparency and modernisation.

MSCI Retains Indonesia's Emerging Market Status, CPIN and GOTO Exit Global Standard Index

MSCI has reaffirmed Indonesia's position in its Emerging Market category during its annual review, citing adequate market size, liquidity, and accessibility. However, the index provider removed PT Charoen Pokphand Indonesia (CPIN) and PT GoTo Gojek Tokopedia (GOTO) from its Global Standard Index, while CPIN was simultaneously added to the Global Small Cap Index. The changes, which also saw nine other Indonesian stocks dropped from the Small Cap Index, will take effect on 31 August 2026.

US-China Trade War Heats Up Ahead of Trump and Xi Jinping Meeting

The United States has imposed new tariffs on polysilicon, a critical material for semiconductors and solar panels, escalating trade tensions with China. Beijing swiftly condemned the move as an abuse of national security concepts, retaliating with tighter export controls on drones and sanctions on US firms. The latest exchange of protectionist measures comes just a month before Presidents Trump and Xi Jinping are scheduled to meet in the US.

Bongal Site Findings from 7th-8th Century Could Shift Timeline of Islam's Arrival in the Archipelago

Archaeological discoveries at the Bongal Site in North Sumatra suggest Islam may have reached the Indonesian archipelago as early as the 7th or 8th century AD. The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) states this significantly predates the commonly accepted 13th to 15th-century timeline for the establishment of Islamic political entities. Researchers believe this finding opens a crucial seven-century gap in historical understanding, urging a shift in focus towards grassroots Islamic archaeology rather than solely palace-centric narratives.

2,126 Job Vacancies Flood Independence Edition Job Fair, Mark the Date!

The Tangerang City Manpower Office is hosting an online job fair from 12 to 31 August 2026, featuring 2,126 vacancies across 16 companies. The initiative aims to reduce unemployment, which has already fallen from 5.92 per cent in 2024 to 5.88 per cent in 2025. Positions range from operational and IT roles to overseas opportunities in Turkey and Japan, with applications processed digitally via the Tangerang LIVE app.

Bogus Travel Agent Owner in Labuan Bajo Named Suspect for Defrauding Foreigner of Rp 244 Million

Police in West Manggarai have arrested and named a 33-year-old man as a suspect for allegedly embezzling Rp 244 million from a Canadian tour operator. The suspect, who ran a fraudulent travel agency, failed to arrange a promised premium tour package to Komodo National Park for 22 Chinese tourists. The case has led to charges under Indonesia's new Criminal Code, carrying a maximum penalty of four years in prison.

Sharia Banking Financing Reaches Rp720 T, BI Prepares New Ammunition

Bank Indonesia (BI) is intensifying efforts to expand sharia-compliant financing for corporate expansion, with outstanding loans reaching Rp720 trillion as of June 2026. The central bank recently convened 20 sharia banks and 51 corporations in a business matching forum to build a bankable and sustainable financing pipeline. Officials emphasised that sharia finance must become a strategic and competitive choice for businesses, supported by deeper market integration and innovative instruments.

Introducing MTick: A Label for Products Designed for Menopausal Women

A new certification mark called MTick aims to help menopausal women easily identify products tailored to their needs. Research indicates that 94 per cent of women want such labelling, yet 66 per cent struggle to find suitable products. The initiative comes as Indonesia's population of women aged 45 and above continues to grow, increasing the demand for accurate information and support.

KAI Logistik Offers 17 Percent Discount on Package Delivery Throughout August 2026

KAI Logistik, a subsidiary of PT Kereta Api Indonesia, has launched a 'Merdeka Ongkir' promotion offering a 17 percent discount on KALOG Express package deliveries weighing at least 10 kilograms. The offer is valid throughout August 2026 to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day and aims to encourage use of rail-based logistics services. Customers can access the discount by using the KAI Logistik TRAX app at any of the company's 295 service points nationwide.

Bimtek OSS RBA Dorong Investasi Mimika Makin Tumbuh

The Mimika Regency government is strengthening the business licensing ecosystem through technical guidance on the risk-based Online Single Submission (OSS RBA) system to attract investment. Officials emphasised that the integrated system aims to provide faster, more transparent services and legal certainty, with 11,221 Business Identification Numbers issued and IDR 6.33 trillion in investment realised in the first half of 2026. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to create a conducive investment climate and support sustainable economic growth in the Papua region.

Chief Justice Suhartoyo: 23 Years On, Constitutional Court Remains Beacon of Public Trust

Chief Justice Suhartoyo has affirmed that the Indonesian Constitutional Court (MK) remains a pillar of hope and public trust as it marks its 23rd anniversary. He noted that the institution handled 701 petitions in 2025 and has already received 304 as of August 2026, reflecting growing public reliance on constitutional channels for justice. Suhartoyo stressed the need for professional, independent adjudication and announced plans for a modern digital court to enhance access to justice.

Ministry of Tourism Partners with Danantara to Boost Tourism Investment

Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism has formalised a partnership with the Danantara Investment Authority to accelerate investment and development in the tourism sector. The agreement aims to enhance destination infrastructure, human resources, and marketing, aligning with the government's broader economic growth agenda. The sector generated USD 18.27 billion in foreign exchange in 2025 and supported over 25 million jobs.

BNI Partners with LSEG to Boost Data and Analytics Capabilities

State-owned Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) has entered a strategic partnership with the London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG) to enhance its data and analytics capabilities. The collaboration aims to improve customer service, data governance, and digital transformation by providing BNI with access to high-quality market intelligence. The deal will integrate LSEG's AI-ready data and workflow solutions across BNI's core business lines, including treasury, corporate banking, and risk management.

New Phenomenon: Indonesians Now Buy Gold for Investment Rather Than Jewellery

Indonesia is witnessing a shift in gold consumption as citizens increasingly purchase bullion for investment purposes instead of jewellery, according to the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources. The trend aligns domestic demand more closely with global patterns, where investment dominates over jewellery fabrication. Officials view this as a positive signal for strengthening household financial resilience amid economic fluctuations.

Constitutional Court to Build Digital Constitutional Court to Ease Public Access

Indonesia's Constitutional Court (MK) has announced plans to develop a modern 'Digital Constitutional Court' utilising artificial intelligence to improve public access and service delivery. Chief Justice Suhartoyo stated the initiative aims to create a transparent and accountable institution, noting that 85 per cent of case registrations this year have already been conducted online. The court also emphasised that human resource quality and system security will be strengthened alongside the technological upgrades.

Lebanon is Different: The Lesson Israel Has Failed to Grasp for 100 Years

The article examines the historical roots of Israel's persistent misunderstanding of Lebanon, tracing it back to the foundational 1943 National Pact. This agreement, which forged a unified Lebanese identity, simultaneously thwarted early Zionist ambitions to detach Lebanon from its Arab context and turn it into a strategic ally. The analysis suggests this century-old miscalculation continues to shape the fraught dynamics between the two entities.

House Member: TNI-Polri Synergy Must Strengthen Without Overstepping Authority

A member of the Indonesian House of Representatives has emphasised that security cooperation between the Indonesian Military (TNI) and the National Police (Polri) must be conducted professionally and within their respective legal mandates. The legislator stressed that while such synergy is crucial for public safety, it should not lead to one institution encroaching on the authority of the other. The statement comes amid the TNI's commitment to assist in ensuring public security ahead of Independence Day celebrations.

JICT Optimises 'Dual Move' to Boost Export-Import Truck Movement

PT Jakarta International Container Terminal (JICT) is optimising a 'dual move' scheme that allows trucks to deliver export containers and collect import containers in a single visit, aiming to enhance productivity and reduce congestion around Tanjung Priok Port. The initiative is part of broader efforts to improve logistics efficiency, with JICT planning to monitor its success through process reliability and user adoption rates. Government and port officials have welcomed the innovation, noting its potential to streamline goods distribution and strengthen national logistics competitiveness.

Provisional Calculation: State Losses in Toba Pulp Case Reach IDR 2 Trillion

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has revealed that provisional state losses in the alleged corruption case involving PT Toba Pulp Lestari (TPL) have reached IDR 2 trillion. The losses stem from two tax officials allegedly ignoring export manipulation by the company. The final loss figure is still being calculated by auditors.

IHSG weakens as market gives short-term response to MSCI review

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) declined on Thursday as investors reacted to MSCI's August 2026 review, which saw two Indonesian stocks removed from its Global Standard Indexes. Market participants also weighed rising government debt levels and mixed global cues, including US inflation data and geopolitical tensions. The index's movement is seen as a short-term response, with analysts noting key support and resistance levels ahead.

PIHPS: Bird's Eye Chilli at Rp61,250/kg, Chicken Eggs at Rp27,050/kg

The National Strategic Food Price Information Centre (PIHPS) reported that the retail price of bird's eye chilli reached Rp61,250 per kilogramme, while chicken eggs stood at Rp27,050 per kilogramme. The data, managed by Bank Indonesia, provides a snapshot of various staple food prices across the country. Other notable prices include shallots at Rp40,700 per kg and premium-quality beef at Rp151,750 per kg.

Economist Reveals 6 Reform Agendas to Accelerate Growth to 8 Percent

A UOB economist has outlined six key reform areas that could propel Indonesia's economic growth to around 8 percent if implemented consistently. The proposed structural improvements focus on sustainability, connectivity, and empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises through digitalisation and better access to finance. The bank's scenario suggests these parallel reforms could lift the growth trajectory from a baseline of 6 percent to 7.5 percent by 2030, with a longer-term potential of reaching 7 to 8 percent by 2045.