Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 13 August 2026

Showing 201-250 of 1,577 articles

Bebizie Explains Singing Fee During KPK Investigation into Former Kukar Regent Case

Singer-turned-politician Bebizie Sri Mulyati was questioned by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) regarding her performance fees from 2017-2018. The investigation is linked to a broader graft case involving former Kutai Kartanegara Regent Rita Widyasari, who is accused of receiving gratuities and money laundering related to coal mining permits. Bebizie stated that the payments she received were legitimate compensation for her services as a singer hired by a private company.

Customs Foils Smuggling of 23 kg of Gold Involving Seven Chinese Nationals

Customs officials at Soekarno-Hatta Airport have thwarted an attempt to smuggle 23.793 kilograms of gold worth approximately Rp63 billion. The operation involved seven Chinese nationals and one Indonesian, who used methods typically associated with narcotics trafficking, including body insertion and modified undergarments. Authorities are investigating the origin of the gold in collaboration with the National Police and the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources.

Soekarno-Hatta Employee Lane Used to Smuggle 6.3 kg of Gold Worth Rp17 Billion

Customs officials at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport have uncovered a gold smuggling attempt using a staff-only operational route. A ground handling employee was caught carrying 6.357 kilograms of gold, valued at approximately Rp17 billion, intended for a passenger bound for Dubai. The case was part of a wider operation on 11 August 2026 that saw a total of 23.793 kilograms of gold, worth an estimated Rp63 billion, seized across two separate incidents.

AGO: Toba Pulp Lestari Transfer Pricing Case Reaches Macau, China

The Attorney General's Office has revealed that the transfer pricing investigation into Toba Pulp Lestari extends to Macau, China. The pulp and forestry company is suspected of shifting profits abroad through tax manipulation involving the misclassification of export commodity HS codes. Investigators estimate state losses from the scheme could reach Rp 2 trillion and are exploring the possibility of similar practices in other export commodities.

Years of Neighbourly Terror Culminate in Depok Man Being Named a Suspect

A long-running dispute between neighbours in Pancoran Mas, Depok, has escalated into a criminal case after a man was named a suspect for vandalism and threats. The conflict, which began in 2024 and involved repeated mediation, culminated in the suspect allegedly throwing a helmet and rubbish at the victim's home. Police have charged the suspect under articles of the new Criminal Code relating to property damage and threats of violence.

Gold Smuggling Worth Rp 63 Billion Uncovered at Soekarno-Hatta, Purbaya Reveals Two Methods

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa announced the foiling of two gold smuggling attempts at Soekarno-Hatta Airport, with a combined estimated value of Rp 63 billion. The first case involved 17.43 kg of 24-carat gold hidden in body cavities, while the second involved 6.35 kg of gold cast bars smuggled with the alleged assistance of a ground handling staff member. The successful interceptions, achieved within 24 hours, were credited to inter-agency cooperation and advanced passenger screening technology.

Lampung to develop 11,000 hectares of cocoa to support downstream processing

Lampung Province is set to develop 11,000 hectares of cocoa plantations in 2026 as part of a national drive to boost downstream commodity processing. The programme includes both replanting and expansion across several regencies, supported by Rp9.88 billion in seedling aid from the Ministry of Agriculture. The initiative aims to increase local production and strengthen Lampung's position in the cocoa processing industry.

ViroFab's 'TenuNYamaN' Pre-Fabricated Building System Ready for Market at JIA Curated 2026

ViroFab is showcasing its market-ready 'TenuNYamaN' pre-fabricated building system at JIA Curated 2026 in Bali, targeting the luxury hospitality and premium residential sectors. The installation serves as a living showcase, demonstrating how the system can deliver architectural quality and flexibility while significantly reducing on-site construction time. The company states the structure was assembled in just over a week, marking a shift from proof-of-concept to a commercially viable solution.

Ragunan Zoo to showcase gorilla feeding attraction for 81st Independence Day

Ragunan Zoo in Jakarta will hold a special gorilla feeding attraction to celebrate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day on 17 August 2026. The zoo will remain open on the national holiday, shifting its regular Monday closure to Tuesday. The management also noted that Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo plans to raise ticket prices for non-Jakarta residents and foreign tourists to fund revitalisation and improve visitor comfort.

Police Hand Over Suspect and Evidence in East Jakarta Etomidate Vape Lab Case to Prosecutors

The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Unit (Bareskrim) has transferred the case of Ananda Wiratama, the alleged mastermind behind a clandestine etomidate vape liquid laboratory in East Jakarta, to the public prosecutor. The suspect reportedly used online motorcycle taxi drivers to deliver packages labelled as 'Mafia' and 'Netflix' to evade detection. A significant quantity of narcotics, including methamphetamine, marijuana, and ecstasy, along with production equipment, was handed over as evidence.

DPR Commission III Reminds Supreme Court Candidates of Vital Role in Upholding Justice

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III has approved 11 Supreme Court and ad hoc judge candidates, while emphasising their crucial function as enforcers of justice. A commission member highlighted that the candidates' integrity, competence, and independence are paramount to their future rulings.

Joint task force uncovers nine cannabis fields in North Aceh

A joint operation by police, the National Narcotics Agency (BNN), and customs officials in North Aceh has led to the discovery of nine new cannabis fields spanning four hectares. Authorities destroyed 17,000 cannabis plants and have placed two suspected owners on the wanted list.

BSKDN: Intellectual Property Protection Part of Government Innovation Governance

The Domestic Policy Strategy Agency (BSKDN) of the Ministry of Home Affairs is strengthening intellectual property protection as a key component of innovation governance within the government. The agency's head, Yusharto Huntoyungo, stated that protecting the works, systems, and knowledge produced by government officials is essential for transforming them into long-term strategic assets rather than mere documents. This initiative is linked to the development of SINTESIS, a smart integrated platform designed to support data analysis, strategic issue identification, and policy recommendations.

Prabowo sets 2 million target for national e-motorcycle production

President Prabowo Subianto has urged domestic manufacturers to scale up national electric motorcycle production to two million units as part of Indonesia's green energy transition. The government is preparing consumer-friendly financing schemes, including lower interest rates and the potential elimination of down payments, to accelerate adoption. The push is framed as essential for Indonesia's competitiveness amid global carbon taxes and evolving urban emissions standards.

PNM Strengthens Mentoring for Ultra-Micro Entrepreneurs to Boost Family Economic Resilience

State-owned enterprise PNM is intensifying its mentoring and capacity-building programmes for ultra-micro business actors, emphasising that access to financing alone is insufficient for sustainable growth. The initiative, which includes business training and incubation, aims to ensure that increased business income directly strengthens household economic resilience. PNM highlights that effective mentoring helps entrepreneurs expand their businesses, which in turn supports their families' daily needs and children's education.

Deputy Minister Reveals Strategy for Indonesia to Become a Competitive AI 'Player'

Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs has outlined a five-layer strategy to boost the nation's competitiveness in artificial intelligence. The approach prioritises application development using existing foundation models while simultaneously planning to strengthen infrastructure and chip layers through critical mineral resources. The government aims to transition Indonesia from a mere user to a significant global player in the AI ecosystem.

Trump's Plane Swap Planned in a Day, Three Agencies Report Iran Threat

US President Donald Trump was secretly moved to a different aircraft during his return from Ankara last month after intelligence agencies detected an Iranian missile plot. The elaborate ruse, involving a catering truck and a decoy Air Force One, was devised within 24 hours. The incident highlights the extreme security measures taken amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran.

Injured Black Panther Enters Village in Batang, Likely from Mount Prau Forest

A protected black panther with an injured leg wandered into a residential area in Batang Regency, Central Java. Authorities believe the animal originated from the forested slopes of Mount Prau, a known habitat for Javan gibbons. The big cat has since been evacuated by conservation officials.

Forensic Team Finds No Signs of Violence on Body of Former Jampidsus Official's Domestic Worker

A forensic examination of the exhumed body of Sutrimo, a domestic worker for former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah, has found no external signs of blunt or sharp force trauma. The team conducted the exhumation in Banyumas, Central Java, three weeks after his burial. Further toxicology, histopathology, and DNA tests are underway to determine the definitive cause of death, with results expected in two to three weeks.

Coach Calls for Sustainable National Training Programme for Climbing Ahead of Olympics

The head coach of the Indonesian national climbing team, Galar Pandu Asmoro, has urged for a continuous national training programme beyond the 2026 Asian Games to ensure consistent athlete development. The team is aiming for two gold medals at the upcoming Asian Games in Japan, with a long-term focus on qualifying athletes for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The manager, Aries Susanti Rahayu, confirmed the targets are for one gold each in the speed and lead disciplines.

DPD Chairman Ahead of MPR Session: No More Songs That Provoke Entertainment

The chairman of Indonesia's Regional Representative Council (DPD) has pledged that the upcoming 2026 MPR Annual Session will be conducted with solemnity and decorum. Sultan Bachtiar Najamudin confirmed that only nationalist and struggle-themed songs will be performed to avoid the entertainment-like atmosphere of previous years. The move aims to anticipate public sentiment during the event, which coincides with the 81st Independence Day celebrations.

UI Nature Lovers Explore Eastern Indonesia to Boost Village Economy and Tourism

The University of Indonesia's nature lovers group, Mapala UI, has launched two programmes in Maluku to stimulate village economies and promote tourism. One initiative involves a paragliding expedition to map routes for adventure tourism, while the other focuses on teaching coconut farmers in Wailulu Village to process their harvest into higher-value coconut flour. The community service programme aims to build a sustainable local economy by reducing dependency on volatile copra prices.

Purbaya Reveals New Gold Smuggling Method: Concealed in Genitalia!

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has detailed a series of failed gold smuggling attempts at Soekarno-Hatta Airport, highlighting increasingly brazen concealment methods including hiding gold inside body cavities. Customs officials seized nearly 24 kilograms of gold worth an estimated Rp 63 billion across two separate operations. The cases underscore the need for enhanced technology, data analysis, and inter-agency cooperation to combat sophisticated smuggling networks.

Police Name Four Suspects in Quran Memorisation Challenge with Alcohol Prize Case

Jakarta police have named four individuals as suspects for blasphemy after they organised a Quran memorisation challenge offering alcoholic drinks as a prize at a music festival. The incident, which occurred at The Sounds Project in Ancol, North Jakarta, sparked public outrage and led to multiple police reports. The suspects face charges under Indonesia's criminal code, with two already arrested and detained.

BI Reports 9.08 Million QRIS Users in Central Java

Bank Indonesia's Central Java office has recorded 9.08 million users of the Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard (QRIS) as of June 2026, the third-highest figure nationally. The number of merchant outlets accepting QRIS payments in the province has reached 4.52 million, ranking fourth in the country. The central bank is accelerating digital payment adoption through events like the 2026 National QRIS Week, held in conjunction with Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations.

WIKA, via WIKON and GESITS, Boosts National Electric Motorcycle Ecosystem

State-owned construction firm PT Wijaya Karya (WIKA) is strengthening its role in Indonesia's electric vehicle industry through its subsidiary WIKON and its stake in electric motorcycle manufacturer GESITS. The move aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's launch of the National Electric Motorcycle Ecosystem (Molinas), aimed at integrating the domestic EV supply chain. WIKA views this as both a business opportunity and a contribution to national industrial self-sufficiency.

BRIN Strengthens Sports Science with Artificial Intelligence

Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is enhancing sports science by integrating artificial intelligence to boost athlete performance and strategy. The initiative focuses on supporting systems such as nutrition, equipment development, and data-driven training methods. The programme aligns with national talent management efforts aimed at achieving world-class sporting achievements by 2045.

Legislator Urges Jakarta Government to Ensure Closure of Illegal Waste Sites

A Jakarta councillor has called on the provincial government to permanently shut down illegal waste disposal sites to prevent ongoing disruption to residents. August Hamonangan also backed plans to publicly name and sanction those responsible for unlawful dumping. He further condemned the obstruction of journalists attempting to cover an illegal site in Cilincing, describing it as an act that hinders public access to vital information.

Jasa Raharja Hands Over Compensation to Heirs of KMP Putri Yasmin Fire Victim

PT Jasa Raharja has delivered compensation to the family of a victim who died in the KMP Putri Yasmin ferry fire off the coast of West Lombok. The state-owned insurer emphasised its commitment to swift, unhindered processing of claims for passengers of public transport. The handover took place in Mataram, with senior officials from the company and local government in attendance.

Indonesia's Coal Gasification Projects Remain Unrealised Despite Abundant Reserves

The Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming has highlighted the lack of progress in Indonesia's coal gasification projects, despite the nation's vast reserves. Deputy Minister Todotua Pasaribu compared the situation unfavourably with China, which gasifies a significant portion of its coal, and stressed the need for a strategic shift to avoid merely exporting raw materials. The government is backing a major downstream project in Tanjung Enim to convert low-rank coal into Dimethyl Ether (DME) to reduce LPG imports.

SAR Temporarily Halts Search for 5 Missing KMP Putri Yasmin Victims, to Resume Tomorrow

Search and rescue teams have suspended operations for the day in the hunt for five people still missing after the KMP Putri Yasmin ferry fire off the coast of Lombok. The joint SAR effort, involving vessels and helicopters, will resume on Friday morning, with officials stressing the critical 72-hour 'golden time' for finding survivors. The incident has already resulted in 212 people being evacuated and one confirmed fatality.

Komnas Hopes Synergy in Violence Against Women Data Will Form Basis of Policy

The National Commission on Violence Against Women (Komnas Perempuan) has called for a unified database on violence against women to serve as the foundation for evidence-based policymaking. The initiative, launched in collaboration with the Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection and the Forum Pengada Layanan, aims to strengthen cross-sector coordination and improve service quality. The 2025 report maps trends, victim and perpetrator characteristics, and recovery needs beyond just statistical figures.

KPAI: School Shooting Extracurriculars Must Be Tailored to Students' Conditions

The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has stated that shooting extracurricular activities in schools should be adjusted to suit students' conditions and needs, deeming them currently unnecessary. The assessment follows the discovery of a firearm at a private school in South Jakarta, prompting the commission to call for safer alternatives. KPAI is also conducting psychological assessments and providing support to students affected by the incident.

CORE: Mitigating dry season impact must focus on water and farmers

CORE Indonesia researcher Eliza Mardian has urged the government to prioritise water management and farmer protection to mitigate the impact of the dry season on food production. She highlighted that the ongoing strong El Niño could suppress planting areas and productivity, particularly in rain-fed lands and regions with limited irrigation. The government is responding by deploying tens of thousands of water pumps and expanding irrigation networks, while also recommending crop diversification and climate-resilient farming practices.

West Java Government Tightens Forest and Land Fire Prevention Ahead of Peak Dry Season

The West Java Provincial Government is intensifying patrols and public education to mitigate forest and land fires as the dry season peaks. The Forestry Service and BPBD are coordinating with local communities and security forces to prevent fires, with Sumedang, Majalengka, and Bandung regencies identified as the most vulnerable areas. Authorities stress that human negligence, such as careless land clearing and discarded cigarette butts, remains the primary cause of fires.

BSSN says AI trend is reshaping cyber attack landscape in the financial sector

Indonesia's National Cyber and Crypto Agency (BSSN) has warned that artificial intelligence is making cyber attacks on the financial sector more automated, adaptive, and effective. The agency highlighted that AI enables highly personalised fraud at scale, lowers the technical barrier for attackers, and threatens to increase financial losses and erode customer trust. BSSN is strengthening cyber resilience by deepening collaboration with financial regulators and mandating that every organisation establish and register a Cyber Incident Response Team.

BPS: Home ownership backlog figures fall 12.39 percent

Indonesia's home ownership backlog decreased to 12.39 percent in March 2026, down from 13 percent the previous year, according to the Central Statistics Agency (BPS). The number of households without their own home fell to 9.29 million, while the uninhabitable housing backlog also declined. The government is aligning its policies with this data, with the Ministry of Housing and Settlements significantly increasing its self-help housing stimulus target to accelerate the reduction of the uninhabitable housing backlog.

Israel Reoccupies Ganim Settlement in West Bank After 20 Years

Israel has officially reopened the Ganim settlement in the occupied West Bank, two decades after it was evacuated under the 2005 disengagement plan. The move, attended by Defence Minister Israel Katz, signals an end to the era of settlement evacuations and a renewed expansion drive under the Netanyahu government. The reoccupation occurs amid heightened violence in the territory since the October 2023 Hamas attack.

PT SMI Disburses Rp364.15 Billion in Financing for Lampung Development

State-owned infrastructure financier PT SMI has channelled Rp364.15 billion to three local governments in Lampung Province to fund road improvements, bridge construction, and drainage revitalisation. The financing aims to enhance regional connectivity, facilitate goods distribution, and reduce transport costs. The loans were allocated to Tanggamus Regency, Bandar Lampung City, and East Lampung Regency.

Drug Prevalence in Indonesia Rises to 2.11%, Calls for Strengthened Prevention and Recovery

The prevalence of drug abuse in Indonesia has increased from 1.73% in 2023 to 2.11% in 2025, affecting approximately 4.15 million people aged 15-64, according to a national survey. Officials stress the need for a comprehensive approach involving prevention, mental health support, and rehabilitation, rather than relying solely on eradication efforts. A webinar by Pancasila University's Faculty of Psychology highlighted the importance of early education and cross-sector collaboration to address the growing threat, particularly among young people.

BNPB: Evacuation of residents during disasters must be swift before many casualties occur

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has called for a fundamental shift from reactive to anticipatory disaster response, stressing that peak evacuations must occur before casualties mount. The agency highlighted a persistent 'response latency' where mass displacement typically happens only after a disaster's impact has already caused significant harm. This approach is being reinforced through impact-based forecasting collaborations with the BMKG to trigger earlier, independent community action.

Prabowo Targets 2 Million Electric Motorcycles, Prepares Zero Down Payment Scheme

President Prabowo Subianto has set an ambitious target for the national electric motorcycle industry to reach 2 million units, challenging manufacturers to scale up production. The government is preparing a financing scheme that includes lower interest rates and the elimination of down payments to boost public adoption. A trade-in programme for petrol motorcycles is also being developed to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles.

South Korea Issues National Malaria Alert After Parasite Found in Mosquitoes

South Korea has issued a nationwide malaria warning after the Plasmodium vivax parasite was detected in mosquitoes near the northern border. The alert follows a regional advisory in June and comes despite a 43.4 per cent drop in domestic cases compared to the same period last year. Health authorities are urging precautions in high-risk areas, particularly as mosquito populations could rebound after the current extreme heatwave subsides.

Survey: 91 Percent of Indonesians Prioritise Holistic Health

A new survey reveals that 91 percent of Indonesians now consider holistic health—encompassing physical, mental, and emotional well-being—as very or extremely important. The Herbalife APAC Wellness Culture Survey 2026 indicates a significant shift in public awareness, with 85 percent of respondents valuing holistic health more than they did three years ago. Nutrition, sleep quality, and mental health were identified as the top three areas people are most keen to improve.

534 Dengue Cases in Pekanbaru Up to July, One Fatality Reported

The Pekanbaru City Health Office has reported 534 dengue fever cases from January to July 2026, resulting in one death. The highest concentration of cases was recorded in Tuah Madani District, prompting authorities to intensify fogging and larvae cleaning operations while urging residents to maintain clean and healthy living practices.

47,000 Makassar residents across six sub-districts affected by drought

Prolonged dry weather has left over 47,000 residents in Makassar, South Sulawesi, struggling to access clean water. The Makassar Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has declared an emergency response status and begun distributing water tanks to the worst-hit areas. Authorities are coordinating with the military, police, businesses, and community groups to mobilise resources and ensure aid reaches those in need.

Lampung Timur DPRD Says 'Sekolah Rakyat' Will Reduce School Dropout Rate

The Lampung Timur Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) has praised the new Integrated Sekolah Rakyat as a strategic initiative to reduce the number of children dropping out of school. The free boarding school specifically targets families in the lowest two income deciles. Officials believe the programme will serve as a vital instrument for breaking the intergenerational cycle of poverty and improving the region's Human Development Index.

Ukraine's New Ballistic Missiles Could Reach Putin's Moscow

Ukrainian defence firm Fire Point is finalising two domestically produced ballistic missiles, with the FP-9 variant boasting a range of 855 kilometres, capable of striking Moscow from Kyiv. The shorter-range FP-7 is already undergoing certification and is expected to be combat-ready by autumn 2026. This development marks a significant shift in Ukraine's strategic capabilities as it seeks to reduce reliance on Western-supplied air defence interceptors.

PLN Expands Electricity Access and Strengthens Infrastructure in Sleman Ahead of 81st Independence Day

In commemoration of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, state electricity company PLN is expanding the power grid and reinforcing infrastructure in Sleman Regency, Yogyakarta. The initiative aims to ensure reliable energy supply to support community activities, public facilities, and local economic growth. PLN emphasized that the network development is a long-term investment to drive regional progress while adhering to strict safety and technical standards.

Prabowo Orders PLN to Shut Down Diesel Power Plants, Shift to 100 GW Solar Target Within Four Years

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed state electricity firm PLN to phase out 13 gigawatts of diesel-fired power plants across Indonesia and replace them with renewable sources, primarily solar energy. The accelerated de-dieselisation plan aligns with an ambitious target to develop 100 GW of solar power capacity. The President emphasised that reducing reliance on imported fuel, which costs up to USD 30 billion annually, is crucial for achieving national energy independence and shielding the country from external geopolitical and trade disruptions.