Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 August 2026

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Bank Jago Partners with GoPay and Bibit in Digital Banking Expansion Strategy

PT Bank Jago Tbk is pursuing a business expansion strategy through partnerships with fintech companies, focusing on three key areas: strengthening its customer base, developing new products like the GoPay Tabungan by Jago savings account, and collaborating with Bibit to enhance investment services. The strategy was outlined by Bank Jago's Director, Nicholas Tan, during the CNBC Indonesia Digital Banking Forum 2026.

Prabowo to deliver annual speech, present 2027 state budget draft

President Prabowo Subianto is set to deliver his annual state address and present the 2027 State Budget Draft at the parliament complex in Senayan, Jakarta, as part of the 81st Independence Day commemorations. The morning session will feature the state address on the performance of state institutions, while the afternoon session will focus on the budget and financial note. The event, originally scheduled for August 16, was moved forward due to the date falling on a Sunday.

Not Nadhea Devi, So Who Is the Woman in White Behind the Qur'an Challenge with an Alcohol Prize?

A viral video showing a woman in white offering alcohol as a prize for reciting a Qur'anic verse at a Jakarta music festival has sparked public outrage. While netizens initially speculated the woman was marketing professional Nadhea Devi, she has since publicly denied any involvement. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation for its perceived disrespect towards Islamic scripture.

Five Missing from KMP Putri Yasmin Fire Include Owner of Oberoi Luxury Resort

Search and rescue teams are continuing to look for five missing passengers from the KMP Putri Yasmin ferry that caught fire in the Lombok Strait. Among the missing is I Made Sutarjana, the President Commissioner of PT Widja Putra Karya, which owns the Oberoi Beach Resort in Bali and Lombok. The search operation, which also involves a woman who was returning home for her wedding, is expected to resume on Friday morning.

Bappenas: NZE Success Measured by Benefits to Society

Deputy Minister of National Development Planning, Febrian Alphyanto Ruddyard, stated that the success of the net-zero emissions (NZE) transition should be measured by its tangible benefits to the public, not just technological adoption. He emphasised that climate change is a development challenge affecting food security, health, and economic productivity, and that green economic growth must be inclusive, reaching MSMEs and local enterprises while creating quality jobs.

Al-Azhar Egypt: A Crucible of Knowledge, Not a Holding Pen

The article examines the strategic paradox of thousands of Indonesian students studying at Al-Azhar University in Cairo, highlighting the lack of a national ecosystem to harness their potential. It argues that the government must move beyond fragmented, reactive solutions to build a comprehensive framework that manages these students from recruitment through to their professional reintegration into Indonesia's development agenda.

Muzani: Free Nutritious Meals Programme an Effort to Build a Smarter Nation, Not Just Food Distribution

MPR Speaker Ahmad Muzani has emphasised that the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is a strategic government initiative to enhance the nation's intelligence and health, rather than a mere food distribution effort. Speaking at the MPR Annual Session, he described the programme as a long-term investment in superior human resources, targeting children, pregnant women, and vulnerable groups. Muzani also stressed the importance of ensuring the programme is implemented with precision and accountability.

MPR Speaker: Earth, Water and Natural Wealth Controlled by the State for the People

The Speaker of Indonesia's People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), Ahmad Muzani, has reaffirmed that the nation's natural resources are controlled by the state for public welfare, in line with the 1945 Constitution. He highlighted the government's centralised export governance policy through PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia as a strategic move to strengthen the country's bargaining position in global trade. Muzani also stressed that Indonesia's sovereignty and free and active foreign policy are guided by national interests and constitutional principles.

MPR Chairman Muzani's Pantun: Pro-people Policies Make Indonesia Shine Brighter

MPR Chairman Ahmad Muzani closed the 2026 MPR Annual Session with three traditional pantun verses praising President Prabowo Subianto's pro-people policies. The poetic address expressed optimism for a sovereign, just, and prosperous Indonesia. Muzani also called for national unity and an end to mutual vilification among citizens.

MPR Speaker: Indonesia Endures Because of the Strength of a United People

MPR Speaker Ahmad Muzani asserted that Indonesia's resilience stems not from natural wealth or international support, but from the unity of its people. Speaking at the 2026 Annual Session, he warned that a weakening of national unity would dissipate the country's energy into mutual suspicion. The address set the tone for the state ceremony ahead of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day commemorations.

MPR Speaker Muzani: Differences of Opinion Must Not Be Used as an Excuse for Insults

MPR Speaker Ahmad Muzani has stressed that Indonesia's democratic strength in the digital era hinges on responsible free speech and ethical conduct. Speaking at the annual parliamentary session, he warned that while technology expands public participation, it also accelerates the spread of hatred and hoaxes. He called on all elements of society to maintain a healthy digital discourse based on facts and national unity.

UNESCO: 2.4 Million Afghan Girls Barred from School

UNESCO reports that 2.4 million Afghan girls have been denied access to secondary education over the past five years, making Afghanistan the only country in the world to officially ban girls and women from secondary and higher education. The agency warns that these restrictions, coupled with a ban on university education since 2022, could lead to a significant decline in the female workforce and an estimated loss of $9.6 billion in household income. The prolonged educational exclusion is also feared to increase the risk of early marriage and further weaken the country's human capital.

Ahead of Prabowo's Speech, Rupiah Reverses to Strengthen at Rp17,835/US$

The Indonesian rupiah appreciated against the US dollar on Friday morning ahead of President Prabowo Subianto's state address. Market participants are closely watching the speech for the government's economic assumptions, including the rupiah exchange rate, growth, and inflation targets for the 2027 state budget. The currency also found support from a weakening US dollar following producer inflation data that reduced expectations of a Federal Reserve rate hike.

103 Council Members Absent from 2026 MPR Annual Session

A total of 103 members of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) were absent from the annual session held at the parliament complex in Jakarta. Despite the absences, MPR Speaker Ahmad Muzani confirmed the session met the required quorum. President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to deliver the state address and a performance report of state institutions during the proceedings.

Bank Kalteng Posts Rp240.41 Billion Profit as of July 2026

Bank Kalteng reported a net profit of Rp240.41 billion for the period ending 31 July 2026, marking a 4.80 per cent year-on-year increase. The performance was driven by double-digit credit growth, consistent operational cost control, and a robust capital structure. The bank's strong capital adequacy ratio of 42.34 per cent provides ample room for continued business expansion.

AHY: SBY to miss MPR Annual Session due to medical check-up abroad

Former Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY) will not attend the 2026 MPR Annual Session as he is undergoing a medical examination in the United States. His son, Democratic Party Chairman Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY), confirmed the initial results are positive but further tests are ongoing. SBY conveyed his prayers for Indonesia's progress and prosperity on the nation's 81st Independence Day.

Muzani: Public Sphere Must Not Be Filled with Language That Degrades Human Dignity

MPR Chairman Ahmad Muzani has called for responsible democratic discourse, urging that freedom of expression be exercised with civility and sound argumentation. Speaking at the 2026 Annual Session, he warned against allowing the public sphere to be dominated by language that degrades human dignity and sows division. The session was attended by President Prabowo Subianto, Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, and other senior state officials.

MPR Chairman Calls Free Nutritious Meal Programme a National Investment, Highlights Children Going to School Without Breakfast

MPR Chairman Ahmad Muzani has described the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme as a strategic long-term investment for Indonesia's future, rather than just a food distribution scheme. Speaking at the 2026 MPR Annual Session, he noted that despite progress in infrastructure, education, and health, many children still go to school hungry and families struggle to afford basic needs. Muzani stressed that the programme's success depends on transparent implementation and accurate targeting to build quality human resources for the 2045 Golden Indonesia vision.

MPR Calls for End to War in the Middle East and Other Parts of the World

The People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) has issued a call for the cessation of hostilities in the Middle East and other global conflict zones. Chairman Ahmad Muzani emphasised Indonesia's constitutional duty to promote world order based on independence, lasting peace, and social justice. He reiterated the nation's free and active foreign policy, rejecting war as a means of resolving disputes and urging diplomacy.

Minister of Religious Affairs Prays for Forgiveness of Sins and Mistakes at Annual Session

During the MPR Annual Session and Joint Session of the DPR-DPD, Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar led a prayer seeking blessings for Indonesia's 81st year and guidance for national unity. He also prayed for protection from slander, the wisdom to accept valid criticism, and forgiveness for the nation's leaders, parents, and heroes.

Jamal Mirdad Hopes Prabowo's Leadership Will Bring Progress to Indonesia

House of Representatives member Jamal Mirdad has expressed his hope that the leadership of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka will advance Indonesia while safeguarding peace. His remarks came ahead of the President's state address at the 2026 Annual Session of the MPR and Joint Session of the DPR-DPD. The session marks the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence, themed 'A Sovereign, Just, and Prosperous Indonesia'.

Vietnam’s Evolving Strategy in a Challenging Indo-Pacific

The article analyses Vietnamese Communist Party General Secretary Tô Lâm's visit to Australia and New Zealand as a signal of Hanoi's shifting diplomatic approach. It suggests Vietnam is seeking to deepen ties with middle powers to navigate an increasingly contested Indo-Pacific region, while maintaining its traditional 'Four No's' defence policy and avoiding direct alignment against China.

IHSG moves sideways as market awaits President Prabowo's state address

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) traded flat on Friday morning as investors closely monitored President Prabowo Subianto's state address. Market participants are particularly focused on the government's 2027 state budget proposal, including growth targets, deficit projections, and spending strategies. External factors such as US inflation data also contributed to the cautious sentiment.

Rupiah strengthens as US PPI data comes in lower than expected

The Indonesian rupiah edged higher against the US dollar in early Friday trading, buoyed by lower-than-expected US producer price data. The softer PPI figures eased inflation concerns and reduced market expectations for a Federal Reserve rate hike. Investors are also turning their attention to President Prabowo Subianto's upcoming speech and the announcement of the 2027 state budget draft.

House Member Welcomes Constitutional Court Ruling on Presidential Defamation Articles

A House of Representatives member has welcomed the Constitutional Court's decision to partially grant a judicial review of articles on insulting the president and vice president. The ruling stipulates that only the president or vice president can report such alleged offences, aiming to balance personal honour with freedom of speech. The lawmaker emphasised that the decision should prevent criminalisation of criticism and called for harmonisation with the ITE Law.

JKN becomes pillar of hope for Herna amid dialysis routine

Herna Sumiratna, a 41-year-old mother from Tasikmalaya, relies on the National Health Insurance (JKN) programme to cover her twice-weekly dialysis treatments for chronic kidney failure. She expressed deep gratitude for the financial security and compassionate care provided by the programme and her local hospital. Herna hopes the quality of service continues, ensuring others can also access life-saving treatment without financial worry.

Business Demands Following Prabowo's Launch of National Electric Motorcycle

Industry leaders have welcomed the launch of Indonesia's national electric motorcycle programme as a strong policy signal, urging the government to swiftly clarify technical details such as branding, production location, and local content requirements. The success of the initiative is seen as dependent on follow-up policies including financing schemes and consumer incentives to build a robust domestic ecosystem.

US Ends Diversity and Inclusion Agenda in the Diplomatic Corps

The US State Department has terminated diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programmes in diplomatic training, labelling them discriminatory and ideologically extreme. The department stated it is restoring a focus on merit, competence, and practical diplomatic skills to serve American interests. The move aligns with a broader executive order from President Trump ending such programmes across the federal government.

Antam gold price drops Rp36,000 to Rp2.664 million per gram on Friday

The price of gold bullion produced by state miner Aneka Tambang (Antam) fell by Rp36,000 to Rp2,664,000 per gram on Friday morning. The buyback price also declined to Rp2,510,000 per gram, with applicable income tax deductions for larger transactions. The movement reflects ongoing fluctuations in the domestic precious metals market.

Five Key Programmes to Boost Indonesian Tourism

The Ministry of Tourism is advancing five flagship programmes aimed at strengthening Indonesia's tourism sector, including safety improvements, quality tourism, Tourism 5.0, village tourism development, and regional event promotion. These initiatives have contributed to positive growth indicators such as tourist arrivals, domestic travel, foreign exchange earnings, and investment. The programmes also emphasise community empowerment and cultural preservation in village tourism.

WIKA Serang Panimbang Invites Motorists to Join 'Freedom Flag Selfie Challenge' at Toll Gate

PT Wijaya Karya Serang Panimbang is celebrating Indonesia's Independence Day with a 'Selfie Challenge' for motorists on the Serang–Panimbang Toll Road. Participants can collect a flag at the Rangkasbitung Toll Gate, take a selfie, and upload it for a chance to win e-money prizes. The campaign aims to foster a spirit of patriotism while promoting the toll road's role in regional connectivity and economic growth.

Antam Precious Metal Gold Price Plunges Rp 36,000 to Rp 2.6 Million Today

The price of gold produced by PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) fell sharply by Rp 36,000 to Rp 2,664,000 per gram on Friday, retreating from the psychological level of Rp 2.7 million. The buyback price also weakened by the same margin to Rp 2,510,000 per gram. The decline reflects ongoing volatility in the domestic precious metals market.

Minister: Molinas Launch a Moment to Accelerate Indonesian Industrial Independence

Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita has stated that the launch of the National Electric Motorcycle (Molinas) by President Prabowo Subianto marks a pivotal moment for Indonesia's industrial self-reliance. The minister emphasised that Indonesia must evolve from being merely a market for electric vehicles into a global production and technology development hub. He highlighted the nation's substantial manufacturing foundation, with total electric vehicle assembly investments reaching approximately Rp30.5 trillion.

81 Years After Independence, Many Indonesian Children Still Go to School Without Breakfast

MPR Chairman Ahmad Muzani highlighted that many Indonesian children still go to school without breakfast, 81 years after the nation's independence. He emphasised that the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is a strategic effort to build a healthy and high-quality human capital for the nation. Muzani called for good governance and accountability to ensure the programme effectively reaches its intended beneficiaries.

Economy Grows 5.29%, but Why Is Purchasing Power Weak and Business Under Pressure?

Indonesia's economy expanded by 5.29% in the second quarter of 2026, yet this solid headline figure masks persistent weaknesses in household purchasing power and business recovery. The growth has not translated into broad-based prosperity, with risks of layoffs and ongoing challenges for the business sector. This analysis explores the disconnect between macroeconomic growth and the real pressures faced by consumers and companies.

Police Prepare Situational Traffic Management for Annual MPR Session

Jakarta police have announced situational traffic engineering measures around the Parliament Complex in Senayan for the 2026 MPR-DPR-DPD Annual Session on 14 August. A joint security force of 8,083 personnel from the police, military, and provincial government will be deployed. Motorists are advised to plan their journeys and follow officer directions to manage potential congestion.

House Speaker Puan Maharani Arrives Late to MPR Annual Session, Group Photo with Prabowo Cancelled

House Speaker Puan Maharani arrived late to the 2026 MPR Annual Session, missing a scheduled group photograph with President Prabowo Subianto and other state officials. The delay, which saw Puan arrive at 08:11 WIB in a green kebaya, forced the cancellation of the photo session. The session proceeded with President Prabowo set to deliver his state address and financial note, outlining a roadmap for achieving 8 percent economic growth by 2028.

Unhas Denies TNI 'Hijacked' FIB Orientation, Says Pangdam Visit Was Official

Hasanuddin University (Unhas) has refuted social media claims that the Indonesian Army (TNI) commandeered a Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB) orientation event. The university clarified that the visit by the Pangdam XIV/Hasanuddin was an official invitation to deliver a lecture on nationalism. The denial follows viral narratives suggesting the event was extended without the committee's prior knowledge.

MPR Chairman Muzani Reaffirms Indonesia's Support for Palestine at Annual Session

People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Chairman Ahmad Muzani opened the Annual Session by stressing that Indonesia's stance on Palestine remains unchanged. He stated that support for the Palestinian struggle is rooted in the nation's own history and constitution, not enmity towards any nation or religion. Muzani declared that the Indonesian people will continue to stand with the Palestinian people.

Rupiah Strengthens to Rp 17,866 After Market Responds Positively to MSCI's Emerging Market Status for Indonesia

The Indonesian rupiah strengthened against the US dollar in early Friday trading, buoyed by positive market reaction to MSCI's decision to retain Indonesia's emerging market status. Analysts noted that the announcement helped curb further depreciation, alongside lingering positive sentiment from the nomination of a sole candidate for Bank Indonesia governor. External factors, including easing US inflation and ongoing US-Iran tensions, also influenced the currency's movement.

Supreme Court Rejects Prosecutors' Appeal, Junaedi Saibih and Others Remain Free in Obstruction Case

The Supreme Court has rejected an appeal by the Attorney General's Office against the acquittal of three defendants in a high-profile obstruction of justice case. The trio, including advocate Junaedi Saibih, were previously cleared of charges related to interfering with investigations into major corruption scandals involving tin commodities, sugar imports, and crude palm oil export permits. The ruling finalises their freedom after prosecutors had sought prison sentences of up to ten years.

Saudi Arabia: 15 Countries Sign Declaration to Form Maritime Coalition

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Defence announced that 15 nations have signed a declaration to establish a multinational maritime defence coalition, with 13 having completed their national procedures. The coalition, commanded by a Saudi officer with a Pakistani deputy, aims to safeguard freedom of navigation and international trade in the Red Sea, Bab al-Mandab Strait, and Gulf of Aden. The announcement marks the coalition's transition towards institutional and operational activation.

Coordinating Minister AHY awaits economic development direction in President's speech

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) expressed anticipation for President Prabowo Subianto's state address, viewing it as a crucial moment to outline national development priorities ahead of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. AHY emphasised the importance of boosting public welfare through robust economic growth and sustainable infrastructure. He also stressed that development progress must be accompanied by a commitment to democracy and equitable law enforcement.

Manpower Ministry Prepares Young Talent to Build Startups and Create Jobs

Indonesia's Ministry of Manpower is equipping young talent with the skills to transform ideas into innovative startups, aiming to generate new employment opportunities. The initiative, led by Minister Yassierli, includes a six-month Talent & Innovation Development Program and a new ecosystem hub to ensure training translates into economically viable ventures. The government is shifting its focus from merely preparing job seekers to fostering adaptive, entrepreneurial individuals capable of creating their own enterprises.

Guide to Checking DTSEN Deciles for Social Assistance: Can Your Decile Suddenly Increase?

The Ministry of Social Affairs has clarified the mechanism behind the Data Tunggal Sosial Ekonomi Nasional (DTSEN) decile system after reports of citizens' classifications suddenly rising. The decile, which ranks households from 1 (poorest) to 10 (wealthiest), is updated quarterly based on cross-referenced asset data from other state agencies. Citizens who believe their classification is inaccurate can file for a data correction through the Cek Bansos app or their local village office, though the verification process is not immediate.

Maxim Launches Electric Vehicle Service in Greater Jakarta Amid Growing Demand

Ride-hailing platform Maxim has introduced a new electric vehicle (EV) service, 'Car EV', in the Greater Jakarta area to meet rising demand for eco-friendly transport. The company highlights lower operational costs for drivers and a quieter, pollution-free experience for passengers. Maxim plans to expand the service to other Indonesian cities after evaluating its performance in the challenging traffic conditions of Jabodetabek.

Bali Governor Koster Calls on Youth to Drive Development on Province's 68th Anniversary

Bali Governor Wayan Koster marked the province's 68th anniversary by urging the younger generation to actively participate in the region's long-term development plan. Speaking at an event in Denpasar, he outlined priority sectors for his second term, emphasising the central role of Balinese customs, religion, and local wisdom. The governor also highlighted the significance of the recently enacted Law No. 15 of 2023, which strengthens the legal foundation for Bali's cultural and traditional institutions.

Baznas, Danantara, Kemenkop, and MES Sign MoU on Zakat Ecosystem

Indonesia's National Zakat Agency (Baznas), the Danantara Investment Authority, the Ministry of Cooperatives, and the Islamic Economic Society (MES) have signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen the national zakat ecosystem. The agreement aims to optimise zakat collection and distribution while expanding economic empowerment programmes through sharia cooperatives and mosque-based initiatives. The collaboration will also link community empowerment efforts directly with the sharia financial ecosystem, including state-owned Islamic banks and insurance.

MPR Speaker Ahmad Muzani: Pancasila Is the Nation's Greatest Common Ground

MPR Speaker Ahmad Muzani emphasised the foundational role of Pancasila during the 2026 Annual Session, describing it as the nation's most significant common ground. He highlighted that the state ideology was forged through historical debate and compromise, not in a vacuum. Muzani argued that Indonesia has repeatedly overcome crises, from political turmoil to pandemics, by returning to Pancasila as a unifying principle.

Former Golkar Legislative Candidate Passes Supreme Court Justice Selection, Albertina Ho Fails

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III has approved 14 candidates for Supreme Court and ad hoc judges, including former Golkar legislative candidate Dhifla Wiyani. The selection has drawn scrutiny as prominent anti-corruption figure Albertina Ho failed to qualify for the criminal chamber, despite her strong reputation. Officials maintain that Dhifla is no longer affiliated with any political party and that the selection process was conducted properly.