Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 August 2026

Showing 851-900 of 1,860 articles

38% of Income Spent on Family, Long-Term Financial Planning in the Spotlight

A Manulife survey reveals that 68% of Indonesians provide financial support to family members, allocating an average of 38% of their monthly income, which hampers their ability to achieve long-term financial independence. In response, Manulife Indonesia and Bank Danamon have launched a new insurance product, Proteksi Prima Fleksi Ekstra (PPFE), designed to offer life protection with flexible early access to benefits. The product targets the productive age group, particularly those aged 25โ€“34, who are balancing current family needs with future financial goals.

Synergy with Danantara, Telkom's Enterprise Market Segment Prospects Expected to Grow by 30 Percent

PT Telkom Indonesia is restructuring its enterprise business segment to strengthen its digital capabilities and support national digital transformation. The company anticipates that synergy with the Indonesia Investment Authority (Danantara) will drive growth in its B2B market segment by up to 30 percent. This strategic move aims to position Telkom as a key partner for government and businesses in areas like AI, cloud services, and cybersecurity.

Padang Panjang Mayor Receives National Scout Movement Darma Bakti Medal

The Mayor of Padang Panjang, Hendri Arnis, has been awarded the Lencana Darma Bakti by the National Scout Movement for his support of youth development. The award was presented during the 65th Scout Day commemoration at Buperta Cibubur. Hendri dedicated the honour to all scout leaders in Padang Panjang and emphasised the movement's crucial role in building character, discipline, and social awareness among the younger generation amidst modern technological challenges.

Prabowo Sets Rupiah Exchange Rate at Rp17,500 per US Dollar in 2027 State Budget Draft

President Prabowo Subianto has proposed a macroeconomic assumption of Rp17,500 per US dollar for the 2027 State Budget Draft (RAPBN). The government is targeting economic growth of 6% and aims to maintain inflation at 2.5%. The rupiah recently closed stronger at Rp17,820 per US dollar, marking a weekly appreciation of 0.36%.

President Prabowo Announces Specialist Medical Programmes in 11 Provinces

President Prabowo Subianto has announced the establishment of specialist doctor education programmes across 11 provinces as part of his administration's efforts to address the shortage of medical professionals. The initiative was revealed during his State of the Union address at the MPR/DPR/DPD building in Jakarta, marking the government's performance review after 21 months of the 'Red and White' cabinet.

Complete: Macro Assumptions in 2027 State Budget Draft Target 6% Growth, Rupiah at 17,500 per US Dollar

The Indonesian government has proposed seven key macroeconomic assumptions for the 2027 State Budget Draft (RAPBN), targeting ambitious economic growth of 6%. The draft also assumes an average rupiah exchange rate of Rp17,500 per US dollar and an inflation rate of 2.5%. Other targets include an Indonesian Crude Price (ICP) of US$75 per barrel and oil lifting of 610,000 barrels per day.

No Longer Chasing Profits, It Is Time for Investors to Survive

Global financial markets are sending uncomfortable signals, with the rupiah weakening, the stock market correcting, and geopolitical tensions rising. This convergence of risks marks a shift from a focus on maximising returns to a 'Wealth Preservation Era', where the primary goal is maintaining purchasing power. Indonesian investors are advised to build portfolios diversified by risk source rather than chasing popular assets, ensuring liquidity to navigate unpredictable market swings.

North Korea Slams US-South Korea Military Drills, Threatens Stern Response

North Korea has strongly condemned the upcoming large-scale 'Ulchi Freedom Shield' military exercises between the United States and South Korea, labelling them a rehearsal for aggressive war. Pyongyang's foreign ministry warned it would respond resolutely to what it perceives as new threats, rejecting claims that the drills are purely defensive. The condemnation follows a recent North Korean ballistic missile launch off the east coast of the Korean Peninsula.

Simplifying Car Rental, Goldenbird Expands Digital Reservation Access

Bluebird Group is expanding digital access for its Goldenbird car rental service to meet growing customer demand for convenience. Customers can now explore options and make reservations through the MyBluebird app and a web reservation platform. The company notes that nearly 70 percent of total bookings are now made via digital channels.

Prabowo Drafts 2027 State Budget at IDR 4,097.2 Trillion, Deficit at 2.68% of GDP

President Prabowo Subianto has outlined the 2027 state budget with planned spending of IDR 4,097.2 trillion, an increase from the previous year. State revenue is projected at IDR 3,426 trillion, with financing set at IDR 671.2 trillion, resulting in a deficit target of 2.40% of GDP. Prabowo emphasised the government's ambition to further reduce the deficit, moving towards the ideal of a balanced budget.

DPD Speaker: Indonesia's Sovereignty Begins with Strong Regions

DPD RI Speaker Sultan Najamudin has asserted that national sovereignty hinges on empowering regions to grow and manage their own potential. He called for a unified, non-adversarial relationship between central and regional governments to ensure development reaches all provinces, districts, and remote areas. The DPD is championing legislation on archipelagic regions, climate change, and indigenous communities to support this vision.

Prabowo Targets 6% Economic Growth in 2027

President Prabowo Subianto has set an ambitious economic growth target of 6% for 2027, a significant increase from the 5.4% target set for the 2026 state budget. The target was announced during the presentation of the 2027 State Budget Bill, with assurances that inflation will be kept at 2.5% and the budget deficit maintained at a low level.

Indonesia's 2027 Fiscal Policy: Higher Growth, Faster Prosperity

House Speaker Puan Maharani has outlined the core principles for Indonesia's 2027 fiscal policy, emphasising that economic growth must be paired with equitable distribution and social justice. She stressed that the state budget, projected to be significantly larger than in previous decades, must be managed with fair revenue collection, high-quality spending, and prudent debt management. Puan also highlighted that the ultimate measure of the budget's success is its ability to tangibly improve the lives of all citizens, including those in remote and underdeveloped regions.

Puan Showcases DPR Achievements: 28 Bills Passed into Law Since 2024

House Speaker Puan Maharani has highlighted the legislative accomplishments of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR), noting that 28 bills have been enacted into law since the beginning of the 2024 session. The laws originated from various commissions and the Legislative Body, with an additional 14 bills currently under first-stage deliberation. Puan stressed that the quality of legislation should be measured by its tangible benefits for the people, not merely the quantity of laws produced.

Veteran Nawi, 104, Recalls the Struggle for Independence in Padang

At 104 years old, Nawi, a veteran of Indonesia's independence struggle, shares his vivid memories of fighting Dutch and Japanese forces with bamboo spears. He reflects on the sacrifices made for freedom and urges younger generations to preserve national unity. Nawi, who still carries a bullet in his thigh from a 1957 conflict, lives by the Minangkabau philosophy of communal solidarity.

US Threatens Iran with Unprecedented Economic Isolation

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has warned that Iran will face a level of economic isolation 'never before witnessed by the world', with further measures to be announced next week. The proposed two-pronged approach combines financial pressure with a sustained blockade of the Strait of Hormuz to prevent access to Iranian ports. This hardline stance marks a shift from earlier suggestions that a deal to reopen the strait could be reached quickly.

Prabowo Highlights Achievements of 'Sekolah Rakyat' Students in State Address

President Prabowo Subianto used his state address to Parliament to spotlight the achievements of students from 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's Schools), a programme for underprivileged children. Beyond mentioning a national karate champion, he praised seven students from Makassar for winning the 15th National Olympiad in subjects like Mathematics and Biology, and Ismi Ulfaidah from Polewali Mandar for being selected for the national flag-hoisting squad (Paskibraka). The recognition underscores the government's focus on providing educational opportunities that allow talented students from disadvantaged backgrounds to excel both academically and in extracurricular activities.

Police Escort Mass Protest Against Alleged Blasphemy at OT Building in Cengkareng

Approximately 400 police personnel were deployed to secure a protest by the Islamic Defenders Front (FPI) outside the Orang Tua building in West Jakarta. The demonstrators condemned an alleged desecration of the Quran linked to a company product during a music festival. The rally caused severe traffic congestion along the Outer Ring Road area.

Puan Highlights DPR as Victim of Hoaxes: Fake Quotes and Out-of-Context Old Videos

House Speaker Puan Maharani has warned that the DPR is frequently targeted by disinformation, including fabricated quotes and old videos presented with misleading new narratives. She stressed that such manipulation aims to create false opposition between the parliament and the public. Puan called for critical engagement with information to prevent societal division.

How to Check Your DTSEN Decile and Request Data Updates

The government's National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) system categorises citizens into deciles to determine eligibility for social programmes. Citizens who believe their recorded decile does not reflect their actual socio-economic conditions can request an update through the official website, the Cek Bansos application, or by visiting their local village office. Submitted requests will undergo verification and a field survey before the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) recalculates the decile.

Cyber University Strengthens Graduate Quality to Face AI and Digital Economy Era

Cyber University is strengthening its Digital Business programme by appointing expert lecturers in HR and marketing management to respond to the growing influence of artificial intelligence. The initiative focuses on combining data analysis, digital technology, and modern marketing strategies to produce graduates who are adaptive and industry-ready. The university also promotes its 3+1 Company Learning Program, which integrates a year-long internship to enhance practical skills.

BRImo Users Reach 49.7 Million by June 2026, Transaction Volume Hits Rp4,166 Trillion

Bank Rakyat Indonesia's (BRI) digital banking application, BRImo, has reached 49.7 million users by June 2026, processing a total transaction volume of Rp4,166 trillion. The state-owned bank attributes this growth to its ongoing digital transformation strategy, BRImo Evolution Reignite, and synergy with Danantara. The platform continues to expand its features, including an automated gold investment toggle, to promote financial inclusion and cater to diverse customer needs.

Seven Secretary-Generals Meet Without PDIP, Utut Adianto: Part of the Game

PDIP Deputy Secretary-General Utut Adianto has described a meeting of seven political party secretary-generals, which excluded his party, as a normal part of political dynamics. He speculated the gathering, led by Gerindra's Sugiono, was likely aimed at aligning views on the state budget and financial note ahead of parliamentary discussions. Adianto declined to comment further, deferring questions to PDIP Secretary-General Hasto Kristiyanto.

Village Economy Accelerated: Prabowo Builds Bridges and Cooperatives

President Prabowo Subianto has outlined a major push to strengthen Indonesia's village economy, focusing on infrastructure and institutional support. Key initiatives include the construction of thousands of village bridges to improve connectivity and the rapid expansion of 'Merah Putih' village cooperatives. The government aims to have 30,000 cooperatives operating optimally by the end of 2026 to shorten supply chains and reduce post-harvest losses.

Amid Global Turmoil, Prabowo Claims Indonesia's Economy Hits 13-Year Record

President Prabowo Subianto has asserted that the Indonesian economy has demonstrated resilience by achieving its highest growth in 13 years during the first half of 2026. Despite global pressures including high energy prices, elevated interest rates, and political tensions, the economy expanded by 5.45% in the first semester. The President stated this performance proves the nation does not have to choose between fostering growth and maintaining fiscal prudence.

Prabowo Promises Ministers More Rest After Many Fall Ill from Exhaustion

President Prabowo Subianto has acknowledged that several of his ministers and aides have fallen ill, with some requiring hospitalisation and surgery, due to the intense demands of their roles. Speaking at the MPR Annual Session, he praised their dedication but conceded that the workload had left them with virtually no days off. He subsequently promised to grant them more rest during the remainder of his term, though he noted their sceptical response to his pledge.

Iran Claims Full Control Over Strait of Hormuz, Rejects US Assertions

Iran's military command has declared that no commercial or oil vessel can safely transit the Strait of Hormuz without its authorisation and oversight. The statement directly refutes claims by US President Donald Trump of American control over the strategic waterway. Tehran emphasised its forces monitor all US and Israeli movements and will not hesitate to defend national sovereignty.

Mataram City Government Bans Cross-Dressing Parades and Football in House Dresses

The Mataram city administration has issued a stern warning against unconventional competitions and carnivals with LGBT undertones ahead of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations. Officials emphasised that events must adhere to moral ethics and social norms, specifically prohibiting activities such as men parading as women or playing football in women's attire. The directive aligns with a fatwa from the Indonesian Ulema Council declaring it haram for men to dress as women and vice versa, citing concerns over normalising deviance among the youth.

Prabowo: State Budget Is a Tool for Indonesia's Struggle to Prosper the People

President Prabowo Subianto has declared the state budget (APBN) a crucial instrument for the government's ongoing struggle to bring prosperity to the people. He emphasised that independence must be tangibly felt in citizens' daily lives, from their dining tables to classrooms and healthcare facilities. The President stressed that every rupiah collected and spent by the state must deliver maximum benefit and represent real hope for the populace.

Komdigi Ministry Strengthens Digital Infrastructure for National Social Protection Digitalisation

The Ministry of Communication and Digital is reinforcing digital infrastructure to support the nationwide digitalisation of Indonesia's National Social Protection (Perlinsos) programme. This initiative follows President Prabowo Subianto's directive to ensure technology delivers tangible benefits, such as reduced administrative burdens and costs for aid recipients. The programme has already registered over 3 million families across 153 districts and cities, with a target of reaching 49 million families upon full national implementation.

FPI Mass Protest at OT Building in Cengkareng Causes Traffic Chaos

A mass protest by the Islamic group FPI outside the Orang Tua headquarters in West Jakarta caused significant traffic disruption on Friday. The demonstrators were condemning an alleged desecration of the Qur'an linked to a company product at a recent music festival. Police deployed hundreds of personnel to secure the rally and advised motorists to seek alternative routes.

Expert: Strengthening Industry and Investment Key to Achieving 6 Percent Economic Growth

An economist from the Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (CORE) Indonesia has stated that boosting the industrial sector and ensuring sustainable investment are crucial for Indonesia to reach its 6 percent economic growth target by the end of 2026. The expert highlighted that the government must drive sectoral growth, particularly in agriculture and industry, while providing legal certainty to attract investors. This assessment follows President Prabowo Subianto's optimistic state address regarding the growth target, with the economy having expanded by 5.45 percent in the first half of 2026.

Puan Maharani Opens DPR Session Attended by President Prabowo to Discuss 2027 State Budget

House Speaker Puan Maharani officially opened the first sitting period of the 2026-2027 session year, marking the start of the third year of the DPR's 2024-2029 term. President Prabowo Subianto attended the session to present the government's introduction to the 2027 State Budget Bill and its accompanying financial note. Puan emphasised the legislature's commitment to prioritising public welfare and outlined key legislative priorities, including the Asset Forfeiture Bill and oversight of pressing national issues.

Prabowo: State Covers JKN Premiums for 96.8 Million Poor Citizens, One of the World's Largest Health Insurance Systems

President Prabowo Subianto announced that the state fully covers the National Health Insurance (JKN) premiums for 96.8 million underprivileged Indonesians, calling it one of the largest health insurance systems globally. The government is also expanding healthcare infrastructure, having built and upgraded 66 regional public hospitals in disadvantaged, frontier, and outermost areas, with 20 new hospitals already operational.

DPR Claims Progress in Corruption and Illegal Mining Crackdown Under Prabowo

House of Representatives (DPR) Commission III Chairman Habiburokhman asserts that law enforcement against corruption and illegal mining has shown significant progress under President Prabowo Subianto's administration. The statement follows Prabowo's state address, where he highlighted the closure of 1,000 illegal tin mines in Bangka Belitung and ordered the National Police Chief and Armed Forces Commander to investigate potential internal collusion. Habiburokhman emphasised the need for strict action against any security personnel involved in these illicit activities.

INDEF Economist: Danantara Begins to Drive Efficiency in State-Owned Enterprises

An economist from INDEF has stated that the newly formed Danantara is beginning to have a positive impact on the efficiency of state-owned enterprises (SOEs). The initial steps have seen rapid internal institutional changes and the closure of unproductive SOEs. This restructuring is expected to contribute to increased profitability and higher dividend payments to the state.

Prabowo: PT Timah Profit Soars Ninefold After Closure of 1,000 Illegal Mines

President Prabowo Subianto announced that PT Timah's profit surged ninefold to Rp 2.7 trillion in the first half of 2026, following the closure of 1,000 illegal mining sites in Bangka Belitung. The president also reported significant profit increases across other state-owned enterprises, including PT Semen Indonesia and PT Pupuk Indonesia. He noted that Garuda Indonesia is recovering, with 20 grounded aircraft reactivated, and expressed hope the airline would return to profitability by early 2027.

Regent Arief Encourages Organic Farming Development in Blora Regency

Blora Regent Arief Rohman has called for the expansion of organic agriculture, highlighting the regency's significant rice production growth of 25 percent in 2025. He urged every village to allocate at least one hectare for organic farming trials, aiming to make Blora a model for organic agriculture in Central Java. The initiative, discussed at a Nahdlatul Ulama farmers' congress, also involves exploring partnerships with state-owned enterprises like Pertamina to support local farmers.

Viral Video Shows Car Windshield Shattered by Object Suspected to Have Fallen from Aircraft in Central Jakarta

A video showing a car windshield shattered by a falling object, suspected to be from a military aircraft, has gone viral on social media. The incident occurred on Jalan H Agus Salim in Central Jakarta, with the object believed to have fallen during a training flight ahead of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations. The Indonesian Air Force is currently investigating the incident and has scheduled a meeting with the vehicle's owner.

Komnas Perempuan: 100 Regional Policies Incompatible with New Criminal Code

The National Commission on Violence Against Women (Komnas Perempuan) has identified 100 regional policies that conflict with Indonesia's new Criminal Code (KUHP), particularly those still enforcing criminal sanctions for moral offences. The commission highlighted recent raids in Pontianak and arrests in Aceh as examples of ongoing practices that the new code does not support. Komnas Perempuan warns that vaguely worded regulations are leading to the criminalisation and targeting of women and gender-diverse groups.

PLN Indonesia Power Extends Aid to Residents Affected by Tidal Flooding in Taman Ayu, West Lombok

PT PLN Indonesia Power UBP Jeranjang has distributed hundreds of food packages to 157 families in West Lombok whose livelihoods were disrupted by severe tidal flooding. The assistance targets fishermen and farmers in Dusun Taman who were unable to work after high waves and seawater inundated their village on 11 August 2026. The state-owned enterprise stated the aid reflects its commitment to social responsibility and supporting communities around its operational areas during crises.

Prabowo Reveals DSI Found Potential Additional Revenue of US$5 Billion from Commodity Export Transactions

President Prabowo Subianto announced that PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia (DSI) has identified a potential US$5 billion in additional state revenue from monitoring export transactions of strategic commodities. In just over two months, DSI monitored over 6,000 export transactions of coal, palm oil, and ferro alloy, uncovering significant price discrepancies. The President stated that DSI will expand its oversight to 50 ports across 25 provinces and include all leading commodities to prevent practices like under-invoicing that have cost the nation dearly.

Pangkep Police Chief Dismissed After Drug Suspect Escapes Custody

A police chief in Pangkep Regency, South Sulawesi, has been removed from his post after a drug trafficking suspect escaped from a holding cell. The suspect, identified as AB, fled after a guard on duty fell asleep. The Pangkep Police Chief has apologised for the unprofessional conduct and confirmed that an internal investigation is underway alongside efforts to recapture the fugitive.

Designer Says Prabowo's Attire Can Be Developed with Indonesian Touches

Fashion designer Ali Charisma suggests President Prabowo Subianto's formal attire could incorporate more Indonesian cultural elements to build a stronger national visual identity. While praising the choice of a formal suit, he believes local textures and details can be integrated without losing a modern, powerful presidential image. Separately, designer Dana Duriyatna analysed the political symbolism of Prabowo's earth-tone suit, metallic blue tie, and black kopiah, interpreting them as messages of stability, humility, and secular nationalism.

Minister Says Government Awaits DPR Initiative on Asset Forfeiture Bill, Following Prabowo's Clear Instruction

Minister of Law Supratman Andi Agtas stated that President Prabowo Subianto has given clear instructions to expedite the Asset Forfeiture Bill, but the government is currently waiting for the House of Representatives (DPR) to formally submit its initiative. The DPR's Commission III is currently conducting public hearings and gathering input on the draft legislation. House Deputy Speaker Saan Mustopa confirmed the bill is a priority for 2026 and denied social media narratives suggesting the DPR is rejecting the legislation.

Police Deploy 400 Personnel to Secure Protest at Orang Tua Building in Cengkareng

Jakarta police deployed around 400 officers to secure a protest outside the Orang Tua Group building in Cengkareng, West Jakarta, on Friday. The demonstration, organised by the Front Persaudaraan Islam, was held to condemn an alleged blasphemy case linked to the company's 'Newport' product during a recent music festival. The protest caused traffic congestion in the area as participants, mostly men in traditional Muslim attire, gathered to hear speeches from a command vehicle.

DPR Opens Session with Prabowo Present, Puan Highlights Layoffs, BPJS, and Asset Forfeiture Bill

House Speaker Puan Maharani opened the new DPR session with President Prabowo Subianto in attendance, outlining a legislative agenda focused on public welfare. Key issues raised include the rising threat of layoffs, access to BPJS healthcare, and the progress of the Asset Forfeiture Bill. The DPR also aims to deliberate on 14 bills and continue strengthening parliamentary diplomacy.

Prabowo Pursues Downstreaming, Targets Global Technology

President Prabowo Subianto has announced a new strategic direction for state-owned enterprises (BUMN) focused on accelerating national downstreaming and acquiring advanced technology. The government plans to purchase leading global companies to gain direct access to intellectual property, world-class management, and established market networks. This initiative, managed through the Danantara Management Agency, has already launched 26 downstreaming projects in 2026 and aims to create tens of thousands of jobs.

Payment System Industry Strengthens Collaboration to Secure Digital Acceleration

Indonesia's payment system industry is intensifying collaboration to address the rapid pace of digital transformation and escalating cyber threats. At the PRIMA Executive Gathering 2026, stakeholders including Bank Indonesia and network provider RINTIS emphasised the need for robust infrastructure, interoperability, and risk management. The forum also highlighted the projected growth of the digital economy and the importance of secure, inclusive innovation.

Prabowo Announces Specialist Medical Programmes in 11 Provinces to Address Doctor Shortage

President Prabowo Subianto announced the government is establishing specialist medical programmes in 11 provinces for the first time to tackle a critical shortage of doctors across Indonesia. Data reveals hundreds of districts lack tens of thousands of general practitioners, dentists, and specialists, particularly in remote areas and Eastern Indonesia. The initiative includes opening nine new medical faculties and 170 specialist and sub-specialist programmes to boost the nation's healthcare workforce.