Archive: 14 August 2026
Showing 901-950 of 1,860 articles
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:15 WIB
Saudi Arabia and US CENTCOM Discuss Easing Regional Tensions
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met with US CENTCOM leadership to discuss defence cooperation and de-escalation efforts in the region. The meeting coincided with Saudi Arabia's announcement of a 39-nation maritime defence alliance aimed at securing freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. The diplomatic push comes amid heightened tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and concerns over potential disruptions to global energy supplies.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:15 WIB
Google Gemini Surpasses 1 Billion Monthly Active Users, Rivaling ChatGPT
Google's AI assistant Gemini has reached a significant milestone, surpassing 1 billion monthly active users as of August 2026, up from 750 million in February. The growth is driven by a shift towards voice interaction via Gemini Live and deep integration with over 40 Android applications. The achievement places Gemini on a competitive footing with ChatGPT in terms of user scale, signalling a maturing AI market focused on practical, cross-platform utility.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:14 WIB
Bappenas: Intellectual Property Key to Escaping Middle-Income Trap
Indonesia's Minister of National Development Planning, Rachmat Pambudy, has stated that intellectual property (IP) is a crucial instrument for the nation to escape the middle-income trap by 2038. Speaking at a national IP forum, he emphasised that 21st-century economic strength relies on innovation and creativity rather than natural resources. The event also saw 36 ministries commit to a National IP Master Plan for 2027-2036 to drive economic transformation.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:12 WIB
Puan Reports DPR's Legislative Achievements to Prabowo: 28 Laws Passed Since 2024
House Speaker Puan Maharani reported the legislative achievements of the DPR to President Prabowo during the opening of the 2026-2027 Session Year. Since 2024, the DPR and the government have successfully passed 28 bills into law. The DPR will now focus on deliberating 14 bills at the first level of discussion while continuing the drafting of 43 other bills, including the Asset Forfeiture Bill.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:11 WIB
Prabowo introduces beneficiaries, guarantees targeted social aid distribution
President Prabowo Subianto introduced two beneficiaries of government social assistance programmes, Susanah and Margarelitha Rohi, during a state address, pledging that aid is now distributed in a targeted and transparent manner. He highlighted the success of digitalisation in the Family Hope Programme, which has slashed beneficiary verification times from up to 200 days to mere hours or minutes. The President also noted that the new system eliminates burdensome costs for recipients, who previously had to spend up to Rp150,000 on travel and documents.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:11 WIB
Migrant Workers, Layoffs, and Education: 8 Focus Areas for DPR Oversight of Prabowo's Government
House Speaker Puan Maharani has outlined eight key areas of public concern that will guide the DPR's oversight of the Prabowo administration. These priorities include resolving legal cases, protecting migrant and online transport workers, and addressing rising layoffs. The announcement marks the start of the third year of the 2024-2029 legislative term, with a renewed focus on ensuring government policies deliver tangible benefits to the people.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:10 WIB
Forest and Land Fires Spread in Central Kalimantan, 622 Hectares Scorched
Forest and land fires in West Kotawaringin Regency, Central Kalimantan, have consumed 622.1 hectares of land so far this year, with 168 incidents recorded. Authorities report a significant increase in fire hotspots during the dry season, particularly in the Arut Selatan district, and are urging the public to refrain from slash-and-burn land clearing.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:10 WIB
Librarians' role crucial in safeguarding collective memory amid digital surge
The Indonesian Librarians Association (IPI) has emphasised the evolving role of librarians as guardians of collective memory and knowledge in the digital age. Speaking at a seminar, officials highlighted the need for libraries to combat disinformation and serve as trusted infrastructure for public knowledge. The National Library of Indonesia also noted its ongoing efforts in digital preservation, including recent UNESCO recognitions and the repatriation of ancient manuscripts.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:10 WIB
63 Civil Servants Face Dismissal for Absenteeism Through August 2026
Indonesia's State Civil Service Advisory Board (BPASN) has recorded 63 cases of civil servants absent from work among 239 disciplinary violations received up to August 2026. Minister Rini Widyantini warned that those absent for ten consecutive working days without valid reason face honourable discharge. The board recently adjudicated 35 cases, imposing sanctions ranging from light penalties to dismissal.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:09 WIB
Danantara's NeutraDC Partners with PLN to Power Hyperscale Data Centre Expansion in Cikarang
NeutraDC, a Telkom subsidiary within the Danantara ecosystem, has partnered with PLN to secure energy supply for its hyperscale data centre expansion in Cikarang, West Java. The collaboration, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding, aims to increase NeutraDC's capacity to 200 MW to meet the surging demand for artificial intelligence and cloud computing services. This strategic move reinforces Indonesia's digital infrastructure readiness and ensures the facility is supported by reliable and scalable power.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:09 WIB
MotoGP Must Be Integrated with Tourism Area, Says Bappenas Head
Minister for National Development Planning Rachmat Pambudy has stated that the MotoGP event in Mandalika must be fully integrated with the surrounding tourism area to generate a multiplier effect for local and national economic growth. He emphasised that the government views the event as a long-term strategic instrument for poverty alleviation and economic transformation, not merely a direct financial calculation. A joint study by Bappenas, ITDC, and MGPA highlighted the significant economic impact of the event, with cross-sector synergy deemed essential for building a robust and sustainable ecosystem.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:08 WIB
Rupiah Strengthens After Prabowo's Speech, US Dollar Falls to Rp17,820
The Indonesian rupiah appreciated against the US dollar on Friday, closing at Rp17,820, buoyed by weaker-than-expected US producer inflation data which reduced expectations for a Federal Reserve rate hike. The currency's gains also coincided with President Prabowo Subianto's state address at the annual parliamentary session, where markets awaited the government's fiscal policy direction and 2027 budget assumptions.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:08 WIB
BRImo Users Reach 49.7 Million, Transaction Volume Hits Rp4,166 Trillion as of June
BRI's digital banking super app, BRImo, has reached 49.7 million users, processing 3.32 billion financial transactions worth Rp4,166 trillion by June 2026. The state-owned bank, in synergy with Danantara, continues to accelerate its digital transformation to broaden financial inclusion. New features such as automatic gold savings and QRIS Tap payments are being introduced to integrate investment and daily transactions within a single ecosystem.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:08 WIB
Prabowo Claims Ride-Hailing Driver Incomes Triple After App Fee Cuts
President Prabowo Subianto has announced that government intervention has led to a fairer revenue split for online motorcycle taxi drivers, increasing their share from 80% to 92%. He claims the policy has significantly boosted driver welfare, with some reporting their incomes have doubled or even tripled. The remarks were made during the 2026 Annual Session of the People's Consultative Assembly.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:08 WIB
Prabowo: Social Aid Digitalisation Now Running in 153 Regencies/Cities
President Prabowo Subianto announced that the digitalisation of social assistance registration has been implemented in 153 regencies and cities across 38 provinces, with over 3 million families registered. The new system eliminates costs and reduces processing times from months to minutes, aiming to make social protection more targeted and accessible for low-income families.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:08 WIB
Prabowo Highlights Sharp Surge in State-Owned Enterprise Profits
President Prabowo Subianto has announced a dramatic increase in the profits of several state-owned enterprises (BUMN) during the first half of 2026, with PT Timah recording a 900% profit surge. The President attributed the improved performance to governance reforms and honest financial reporting, projecting that net dividends to the state will quadruple between 2024 and 2026. He also noted positive trends at Garuda Indonesia, which is expected to return to consistent profitability by early 2027.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:07 WIB
Before Prabowo, Puan Reveals Progress on Asset Forfeiture Bill
House Speaker Puan Maharani has confirmed that the Indonesian parliament will prioritise the Asset Forfeiture Bill among 14 pieces of legislation to be discussed in the current sitting period. The bill remains in a public consultation phase, while Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas stated that President Prabowo Subianto has given clear instructions to expedite the process. The government is awaiting the House's formal initiative to begin joint deliberations on the draft law.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:07 WIB
House Speaker Puan Maharani Outlines Four Key Points for 2027 State Budget Deliberations
House Speaker Puan Maharani has set out four guiding principles for the formulation of the 2027 State Budget (APBN), emphasising fair revenue collection and high-quality spending. She stressed that deficit and debt management must be prudent to avoid burdening future generations, while regional transfers should strengthen public services and local economies. The Speaker underscored that the ultimate measure of the budget's success is its tangible impact on improving people's lives.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:07 WIB
Police Hunt Seminyak Spa Owner Suspected of Running Same-Sex Prostitution Ring
Bali police are searching for the owner of a spa in Seminyak, identified by the initials AC, suspected of operating a same-sex prostitution business. The investigation began after a public complaint and a subsequent raid on 27 July, during which five therapists were detained as witnesses. Authorities are currently examining seized mobile phones and other evidence to uncover the full extent of the illegal operation.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:06 WIB
Decoding the Meaning Behind Jokowi's Thumbs-Up Gesture After Prabowo's State Address
A simple thumbs-up gesture from former President Joko Widodo directed at President Prabowo Subianto following a state address has drawn public attention. Communication experts suggest the gesture is a universal sign of approval or positivity, though they caution against reading deep political conclusions into a single nonverbal cue. The moment highlights the complex political history between the two leaders, who were once rivals before becoming allies in government.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:06 WIB
Prabowo pushes green economy with focus on public welfare
President Prabowo Subianto highlighted Indonesia's green economy progress during his State of the Nation address, pointing to the newly implemented Carbon Unit Registration System as a key milestone. He stressed that environmental protection efforts, including forest conservation, must be balanced with tangible benefits for the people, ensuring the green transition generates added value for society. The President also noted that Indonesia's climate action, such as carbon sequestration, could be rewarded by high-emission countries.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:06 WIB
Protest against alleged blasphemy at OT Building in Cengkareng causes traffic chaos
A mass demonstration condemning alleged blasphemy outside the Orang Tua Group building in West Jakarta triggered severe traffic congestion on Friday. The protest, organised by the Islamic Brotherhood Front, was in response to a perceived insult to the Quran linked to a company product at a recent music festival. Orators urged the crowd to defend their holy book against improper treatment.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:06 WIB
SOE dividends rise 67 percent to US$7.98 billion in 2025: President
President Prabowo Subianto announced that dividends from state-owned enterprises (SOEs) surged 67 percent year-on-year to Rp142.3 trillion (US$7.98 billion) in 2025, attributing the increase to governance reforms and corrected profit reporting. Total SOE net profits climbed 75.3 percent to Rp326 trillion, while the net fiscal contribution after deducting state capital injections rose 160 percent to Rp138 trillion. The President projected dividends could reach Rp200 trillion in 2026 without further state capital injections, with the earnings supporting industrial downstreaming initiatives.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:05 WIB
DPR Member: Bulog's Shift to Autonomous Body Will Strengthen State's Role in Food Management
A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) has stated that transforming the State Logistics Agency (Bulog) into an autonomous body will enhance the government's capacity to manage national food reserves and stabilise prices. The proposed change, currently under discussion as part of a revision to the Food Law, aims to give the state greater control over the strategic institution. If approved, Bulog would shift from a profit-oriented state-owned enterprise to a non-commercial entity managing nine essential commodities to support the government's food self-sufficiency target by 2027.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:05 WIB
Puan: 2027 State Budget Approaching Rp4,000 Trillion, a 'Very Large' Figure
House Speaker Puan Maharani has revealed that Indonesia's 2027 state budget (APBN) could approach Rp4,000 trillion, marking a nearly twentyfold increase since 2000. She emphasised that such a vast sum must translate into tangible benefits for the people. The statement was made ahead of the President's delivery of the 2027 budget bill to parliament.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:05 WIB
House Member Urges Universities to Base Research on Data-Driven Policy
A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called for university research to form the basis of data-driven government policy, rather than remaining purely academic achievements. The statement was made in response to the country's continued reliance on imported products and the need for locally relevant solutions in health, food security, and energy.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:05 WIB
House Commission VI Applauds President's Remarks on Danantara's SOE Reform Progress
House Commission VI Deputy Chairman Andre Rosiade has welcomed President Prabowo Subianto's positive assessment of Danantara's performance, highlighting the successful partnership in streamlining state-owned enterprises (SOEs) without resorting to layoffs. The President reported a significant 67 percent increase in SOE dividend contributions, reaching Rp142.3 trillion in 2025, following governance and performance improvements. This progress was announced during the annual state address marking Indonesia's 81st Independence Day.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:05 WIB
Prabowo Announces Free Health Screening Reaches 108 Million, 66 Regional Hospitals Upgraded
President Prabowo Subianto reported that the Free Health Screening (CKG) programme has reached 108 million people since its launch in February 2025. In a state address, he also highlighted the renovation of 66 regional general hospitals in disadvantaged, frontier, and outermost areas to reduce healthcare inequality. The government aims to expand access to early detection and improve local medical facilities across the archipelago.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:04 WIB
August Holds Special Significance for Indonesia and India as Fellow BRICS and G20 Members Strengthen Ties
Indonesia and India, two of Asia's largest democracies, are leveraging their historical civilisational links to forge a modern economic partnership. With both nations ranking among the fastest-growing G20 economies, recent high-level visits have reinforced commitments to collaborate on trade, digital economy, critical minerals, and renewable energy. The relationship aims to move beyond commodity trading towards building shared value chains that benefit large enterprises and small businesses alike.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:04 WIB
Obesity Treatment Requires More Than Just Cutting Rice, Says Doctor
A clinical nutrition specialist has emphasised that tackling obesity requires a personalised approach beyond simply reducing rice consumption. Factors such as individual eating habits, lifestyle, and emotional triggers like stress play a significant role in the condition. The expert advises against fad diets and recommends consulting healthcare professionals for tailored treatment.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:03 WIB
Sahroni Hopes Judge Salary Increase Will Lead to More Objective, Professional, and High-Integrity Judiciary
House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Ahmad Sahroni has expressed support for President Prabowo Subianto's policy to significantly increase judges' salaries, reportedly by up to 280 percent. Sahroni stated that the NasDem Party appreciates the move, which aims to improve judicial welfare and prevent corruption. He expressed hope that the increased remuneration will encourage judges to uphold higher standards of objectivity, professionalism, and integrity in Indonesia's legal system.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:03 WIB
RI Govt backs Court ruling on presidential defamation complaints
The Indonesian government has endorsed a Constitutional Court ruling that clarifies only the president or vice president can initiate defamation complaints under the Criminal Code. Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra stated the decision ensures legal certainty and prevents third parties, such as political supporters, from filing such cases. The court maintained that while insults against top leaders are criminalised, the ruling safeguards legitimate criticism and freedom of expression.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:02 WIB
JCI Suddenly Jumps 1%, Here's Why
The Jakarta Composite Index surged over 1% on Friday, but the rally was largely driven by a single stock, Bayan Resources, which hit its daily upper limit. The coal miner's 20% leap contributed more than half of the index's total point gain, masking a lack of broad-based market strength. While the energy sector soared, the financial sector actually weakened, indicating the rally was not evenly distributed.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:02 WIB
Digital Literacy Key for Students Facing Current Job Market Challenges
A university head has stressed that digital literacy is now a fundamental requirement for students, extending beyond basic device operation to include data analysis and AI tool proficiency. Cyber University's rector highlighted that their three-year programme with a one-year industry internship ensures graduates are work-ready and quickly absorbed by the job market. The institution aims to equip students with practical skills to not only secure careers but also to drive innovation in the digital era.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:01 WIB
Government Fully Covers JKN Contributions for 96.8 Million Underprivileged Citizens
President Prabowo Subianto announced that the state is fully subsidising National Health Insurance (JKN) contributions for 96.8 million underprivileged Indonesians. He highlighted this as part of the government's commitment to equitable healthcare access. The president also noted the construction and upgrade of 66 regional hospitals in remote and border areas to further strengthen health services.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:01 WIB
PAN Faction Fully Supports Prabowo: The State Must Make Things Easier for the People
A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives from the National Mandate Party (PAN) has expressed full support for President Prabowo Subianto's commitment to streamlining public services. The legislator emphasised that the state's role is to provide fast, transparent, and solution-oriented services, aligning with PAN's political platform. He called for an end to ineffective bureaucracy that complicates citizens' access to their rights.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 15:00 WIB
Sulphur Prices Soar, Here's Vale's Strategy to Maintain Smelter Operations
PT Vale Indonesia is exploring alternative sulphur sources, including extraction from pyrite, to mitigate the impact of soaring global prices and supply chain disruptions on its nickel downstream operations. The company is conducting trials to find an optimal composition while ensuring environmental safeguards are met. The Indonesian nickel industry relies heavily on Middle Eastern sulphur imports, with approximately 75-80% of its needs sourced from the region for high-pressure acid leaching facilities.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 14:59 WIB
Welcoming Independence Day, BKKBN Kepri Holds UPPKA Trade Fair and Provides Child Nutrition
The National Population and Family Planning Board (BKKBN) of the Riau Islands Province organised a trade fair for the Family Income Improvement Programme (UPPKA) and distributed nutritional aid to children. The events were held to commemorate the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence. The initiative also served to promote BKKBN's programmes, including the 'GENTING' foster parent movement aimed at preventing stunting.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 14:58 WIB
DBS Bank and Mandiri Investasi Push Asset Diversification in Asia to Withstand Global Volatility
PT Bank DBS Indonesia and PT Mandiri Manajemen Investasi have launched a Singapore dollar-denominated discretionary portfolio management referral service for affluent and high-net-worth clients. The collaboration aims to provide tailor-made investment strategies across fixed income, equities, and gold to build more resilient portfolios. The move leverages DBS's global research and Mandiri Investasi's Rp 62 trillion in assets under management to capture long-term returns amid global market uncertainty.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 14:57 WIB
Prabowo Stresses Subsidised Goods Not for Trade, to Be Distributed via Kopdes Merah Putih
President Prabowo Subianto has asserted that government-subsidised goods must not be traded and will be channelled exclusively through the Kopdes Merah Putih village cooperative network. The policy aims to strengthen the people's position in the supply chain and ensure that subsidies, funded by public money, directly benefit citizens. The government plans to have 30,000 such cooperatives operational by the end of 2026 to prevent market manipulation by large capital holders.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 14:56 WIB
Bridge Where Bogor Civil Servant Fell into Cisadane River Can Only Be Crossed by One Motorcycle
A civil servant from Bogor City Government is missing after reportedly falling from a steep bridge into the Cisadane River. Police have revealed the narrow bridge can only be crossed by a single motorcycle at a time, with a drop of up to 30 metres to the water below. A search operation involving 70 personnel is currently underway.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 14:56 WIB
Ministry Strengthens University Transformation to Achieve Golden Indonesia 2045
The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology is accelerating the transformation of higher education to be more inclusive and impactful, aiming to prepare human resources for the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision. Minister Brian Yuliarto highlighted achievements including a 94.81% budget realisation rate, the funding of nearly 13,000 research projects, and the opening of new medical faculties in 11 provinces. The ministry is focusing on expanding access, improving quality, and ensuring research and innovation directly benefit society.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 14:56 WIB
Prabowo's Ad Hoc Court for SOEs Only an Example, Says Law Minister
Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas has clarified that President Prabowo Subianto's proposal for an ad hoc court to investigate state-owned enterprise (SOE) officials was merely an example of the government's broader commitment to combating corruption. The president's remarks, made during the annual state address, were intended as a warning to all state institutions about the need for good governance and digital-based systems. Supratman stated there are currently no plans to establish such a court, but the government stands ready if instructed.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 14:53 WIB
Puan Leads Plenary Session Before Prabowo, 463 DPR Members Attend
House Speaker Puan Maharani presided over the opening plenary session of the 2026-2027 sitting, attended by 463 of 580 members. The session featured the presentation of the 2027 State Budget Bill and Financial Note, with President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming in attendance. The meeting marked the formal commencement of the parliamentary year and the start of the budget deliberation process.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 14:52 WIB
Wild Asian Elephants Receive Improved Care in Yunnan
The population of wild Asian elephants in China's Yunnan province has grown significantly, from around 150 in the 1980s to nearly 400 today. This recovery follows comprehensive conservation efforts including habitat restoration, scientific monitoring, and the establishment of dedicated rescue centres. The famous wandering herd that captured global attention in 2021 has since grown to 21 members after two new births.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 14:52 WIB
Swedish Ambassador Highlights Indonesia's Democratic Success on 81st Independence Anniversary
Swedish Ambassador to Indonesia Daniel Blockert praised the nation's strengthening democracy on its 81st independence anniversary, calling the journey challenging yet highly successful. He also noted the robust bilateral relationship and announced a planned high-level visit by Sweden's Crown Princess Victoria in September 2026. The ambassador commended President Prabowo Subianto's comprehensive state address and his commitment to completing government programmes.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 14:52 WIB
Prabowo says free health screening programme has reached 108 million people
President Prabowo Subianto announced that the Free Health Screening programme (CKG) has reached 108 million Indonesians since its launch in February 2025. He detailed that 70.2 million people participated in 2025, with a further 59.5 million joining by the end of June 2026. The programme, available at over 10,000 community health centres nationwide, aims to promote early disease detection, though the President noted some public reluctance to undergo checks.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 14:50 WIB
IHSG Continues to Strengthen, Rising 1.33%
The Indonesian Composite Stock Index (IHSG) extended its rally on Friday, climbing 1.33% to 6,385.81 during the second trading session. The advance was broad-based, with seven out of eleven sectors posting gains, led by the basic materials sector. The market's positive performance coincided with the ongoing Annual Session of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) and the Joint Session of the DPR-DPD in Jakarta.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 14:50 WIB
FERBI 2026 Officially Launched, BI Urges Indonesians to Love the Rupiah More
Bank Indonesia launched the 2026 Sovereign Rupiah Festival (FERBI) in Jakarta, emphasising the Rupiah's strategic role beyond payments as a symbol of national unity and sovereignty. The central bank is promoting the 'Love, Pride, and Understand Rupiah' movement to encourage proper care and use of the currency amid the rise of digital payments. The three-day event also showcases sustainable currency management, including an award-winning waste recycling programme.
Fri, 14 Aug 2026, 14:50 WIB
Bogor Regency abolishes PBB-P2 fines for Independence Day
The Bogor Regency administration is offering a one-week amnesty on fines for overdue Rural and Urban Land and Building Tax (PBB-P2) to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The programme allows taxpayers to settle their principal tax obligations without penalty for any outstanding amounts up to the 2025 tax year. Residents are encouraged to visit local tax offices between 14 and 21 August 2026 to take advantage of the relief.