Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 August 2026

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AI Has No Feelings, So Why Do We Feel Understood?

A growing number of young Indonesians are turning to AI chatbots for emotional support, with some even considering them as alternatives to psychologists. The trend is driven by perceptions of AI as non-judgemental, always available, and better at keeping secrets, highlighting a societal struggle with loneliness and the difficulty of confiding in other people.

Mobile Samsat Services Available at 14 Locations Across Greater Jakarta on Friday

The Metro Jaya Regional Police are deploying mobile Samsat units at 14 locations across Jakarta, Depok, Tangerang, and Bekasi on Friday to facilitate annual vehicle tax payments. The service operates at various times and venues, including shopping centres and government offices, to improve taxpayer convenience. Motorists are reminded that these mobile units only process annual tax payments, while five-year registration renewals and plate replacements must be completed at permanent Samsat offices.

Former Presidents and Vice Presidents Attend MPR Annual Session

Several former Indonesian presidents and vice presidents, including Joko Widodo and Jusuf Kalla, attended the MPR Annual Session and Joint Session of the DPR-DPD in Jakarta on Friday. The event, held at the Nusantara Building, also saw the arrival of current cabinet ministers and parliamentary leaders. President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to deliver a speech on the 2027 State Budget during the session.

Jokowi and Jusuf Kalla Attend 2026 MPR Annual Session

Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo and several former vice presidents, including Jusuf Kalla, attended the 2026 MPR Annual Session in Jakarta. The event, which also featured a state address by President Prabowo Subianto, was notably missed by former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono due to a medical check-up in the United States.

Megawati Absent from Today's MPR Annual Session

Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri was absent from the MPR Annual Session and the joint DPR-DPD session in Jakarta on Friday. A senior PDIP official stated she had other commitments and would also miss the Independence Day ceremony at the Merdeka Palace, opting instead for the party school's event. The parliamentary sessions featured President Prabowo Subianto's state address and the presentation of the government's 2027 budget bill.

Unhas and TNI Address Allegations of 'PKKMB Hijacking' and Freshers Fainting

Hasanuddin University (Unhas) and the Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI) have denied allegations of military intervention and verbal abuse during a freshers' orientation event. The university clarified that the visit by the regional military commander was a pre-arranged, official invitation to deliver a lecture on national identity, dismissing claims of forced door closures and student fainting spells as disinformation.

Prabowo arrives at DPR building, welcomed by MPR and DPD leaders

President Prabowo Subianto arrived at the parliament complex in Senayan, Jakarta, on Friday to attend the 2026 MPR Annual Session and the Joint Session of the DPR-DPD. He was welcomed by MPR Speaker Ahmad Muzani and DPD Speaker Sultan B. Najamudin. The session's agenda includes the President's state address on the performance of state institutions and the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence.

President Prabowo's Motorcade Arrives at Parliament for Annual Session

President Prabowo Subianto arrived at the Parliament Complex in Senayan, Jakarta, on Friday morning to attend the 2026 MPR Annual Session and the Joint Session of the DPR and DPD. The President is scheduled to deliver a report on the performance of state institutions and development achievements. The agenda also includes the presentation of the government's statement on the 2027 State Budget Bill.

Not Just Indonesia: 10 Countries with State Addresses That Capture Global Attention

As Indonesia prepares for President Prabowo Subianto's state address at the MPR Annual Session, a look at similar traditions worldwide reveals how leaders use these forums to outline national priorities. From the US State of the Union to Japan's Imperial Diet opening and the UK's King's Speech, these annual or ceremonial addresses serve as key moments for governments to present their achievements and legislative agendas to both parliament and the public.

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga RU Cilacap Opens Tender for Replacement of Column Assy 11C-1

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga Refinery Unit IV Cilacap has announced an open tender for the replacement of Column Assy 11C-1 in the Fuel Oil Complex I area. The tender, open until 24 August 2026, aims to maintain operational reliability and ensure production continuity. Interested suppliers can register online through the company's official procurement system.

Batam Accelerates: Investment Soars, Job Opportunities Expand

Batam's investment realisation surged 62.75% year-on-year to Rp29.89 trillion in the first half of 2026, driving a 32.16% increase in employment. The BP Batam authority is simultaneously modernising Batu Ampar Port and streamlining business licensing to strengthen the island's role as a national economic locomotive.

MSCI Indonesia August 2026 Review Reflects Liquidity Quality Issues

The August 2026 MSCI review for Indonesia has highlighted significant liquidity and investability concerns, with Charoen Pokphand Indonesia downgraded and GoTo removed from the index. Nine other Indonesian stocks were also deleted from the MSCI Global Small Cap Index, signalling that market depth issues persist despite ongoing capital market reforms. Analysts warn that these changes could exacerbate negative foreign investor sentiment and selective capital flows.

Megawati Absent from 2026 Annual and Joint Session, Here's Why

PDI-P Chairperson Djarot Saiful Hidayat confirmed that former President Megawati Soekarnoputri will not attend the 2026 MPR Annual Session and Joint Session due to prior commitments. He also indicated that Megawati is likely to lead a flag ceremony at the party school on Independence Day, rather than attend the state function at the palace.

Kadin Siapkan Program “We Buy from Indonesia” untuk Tarik Investasi

Kamar Dagang dan Industri (Kadin) Indonesia meluncurkan inisiatif “We Buy from Indonesia” sebagai instrumen diplomasi ekonomi untuk memperkuat perdagangan dan menarik investasi. Program ini akan mempromosikan produk Indonesia melalui buku yang dikirimkan ke para duta besar, dengan harapan peningkatan perdagangan akan mendorong industrialisasi dan penciptaan lapangan kerja. Kadin juga menekankan pentingnya hubungan antarmanusia dan perjanjian perdagangan seperti FTA dan CEPA dalam mewujudkan tujuan tersebut.

DPD Speaker Says President Has Prepared a Surprise for the Annual Session

The Speaker of the Regional Representative Council (DPD), Sultan B. Najamudin, has revealed that President Prabowo Subianto has prepared a surprise for the upcoming Annual Session of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR). The surprise involves eight special guests the President will present, though their identities remain undisclosed. The annual session, held ahead of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, will feature the President's state address and a video presentation of the government's performance.

Video: As Customer Needs Evolve, Bank Aladin Delivers Relevant Solutions

Bank Aladin Syariah's CEO, Koko Rachmadi, discussed the bank's digital transformation strategy at the CNBC Indonesia Digital Banking Forum 2026. He emphasised the need to adapt to changing customer lifestyles by leveraging technology, including artificial intelligence, to provide secure and relevant financial services. The forum highlighted the future of Indonesia's digital banking ecosystem.

Mobile Driving Licence Service Available at Five Jakarta Locations on Friday

The Metro Jaya Police Traffic Directorate is operating mobile driving licence renewal services at five locations across Jakarta on Friday. The service, available from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., only handles renewals for valid SIM A and SIM C licences. Applicants must provide required documents and pay the applicable administrative fees.

12 Students Injured in Accident After Unhas Community Service Programme Closure in Bantaeng

Twelve students from Hasanuddin University (Unhas) were involved in a single-vehicle accident in Bantaeng, South Sulawesi, shortly after attending the closing ceremony of their community service programme (KKN). The driver reportedly lost control due to brake failure, causing the vehicle to hit a tree and overturn. All students received medical treatment, with most discharged the same evening, while two were kept overnight for rest.

Parliament to Hold Special Session Commemorating 17 August

The Indonesian Parliament will convene a special session on the evening of 16 August to commemorate Proclamation Day. President Sukarno and Vice President Mohammad Hatta are scheduled to attend, with the President delivering a speech from the Parliament building for the first time. Due to limited space, only 50 seats are available for the public, which will be allocated via a lottery system.

Government to Impose Export Tax on Heavy Gold Jewellery to Curb Smuggling

The Indonesian government is set to impose export duties on heavy gold jewellery to close a loophole used to avoid taxes on gold bullion exports. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa revealed that exporters have been disguising gold bars as low-quality jewellery to evade levies, a practice linked to illegal mining. The new regulation aims to tighten customs controls and protect state revenue.

KAI Group Connectivity Expands, Serving 307.86 Million Passengers from January to July 2026

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) Group reported an 8.32% increase in passenger numbers, serving 307.86 million customers in the first seven months of 2026. The state-owned enterprise attributed the growth to its expanding integrated rail ecosystem, which includes intercity, urban, airport, premium, and high-speed train services. The figures highlight the growing reliance on rail-based public transport to support daily mobility and economic connectivity across Java, Sumatra, and Sulawesi.

President Prabowo Arrives at Parliament Complex for State Address

President Prabowo Subianto arrived at the Nusantara Building in Jakarta on Friday to deliver his state address at the 2026 MPR Annual Session. The President, dressed in a black suit and blue tie, was greeted by parliamentary leaders including MPR Speaker Ahmad Muzani. The session marks the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence and will include a presentation of the government's performance report.

Saudi Arabia Officially Activates Multinational Defence Maritime Alliance Involving 39 Countries

Saudi Arabia has formally activated a Multinational Defence Maritime Alliance, marking the start of its operational phase after a period of institutional structuring. The Saudi Defence Ministry announced that 15 countries have signed a joint statement and 13 have completed national procedures to formally join the alliance. The development includes the appointment of a Saudi commander and a Pakistani deputy commander for the initial term.

Foreign Investors Net Sell Rp1.17 Trillion as IHSG Plunges, Offloading These 10 Stocks

The Indonesian Stock Exchange (IDX) Composite Index fell over 1% on Thursday, prompting foreign investors to record a net sell of Rp1.41 trillion across all markets. The selling pressure was concentrated in the regular market, with major stocks like Chandra Asri Pacific and Petrosea among the top ten most divested.

Red Tie and All: Komeng Appears at MPR Annual Session, Asks for 'First Place'

Comedian-turned-senator Komeng attended the MPR Annual Session and Joint Session of the DPR and DPD in Jakarta, sporting a red tie and black suit. When asked about his expectations for President Prabowo Subianto's address, he simply requested 'first place' and urged focus on the people. The session, marking Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, was also attended by several former vice presidents and prominent political figures.

Digital Banks Strengthen Fintech Partnerships to Pursue Growth and Profit

Indonesian digital banks are intensifying collaborations with fintech firms and retail ecosystems to accelerate business growth and improve profitability. Executives from Allo Bank and Bank Aladin Syariah highlighted that such partnerships are crucial for expanding customer bases, broadening access to banking products, and boosting margins. The strategies were discussed at CNBC Indonesia's Digital Banking Forum 2026.

Indonesian President orders PLN to end diesel power, targeting 13 GW

President Prabowo Subianto has directed state electricity firm PLN to phase out diesel power plants, targeting 13 gigawatts of capacity, as part of a broader push for energy self-sufficiency. Speaking at an electric vehicle event, he highlighted that Indonesia spends up to US$30 billion annually on fuel imports, leaving the nation vulnerable to global price shocks. The president also announced an ambitious target to install 100 GW of solar power capacity within four years, including 30 GW this year, to harness the country’s abundant clean energy resources.

AGO Transfers PT AKT Corruption Suspect to Central Jakarta Prosecutors

The Attorney General's Office has handed over a suspect in the PT Asmin Koalindo Tuhup mining corruption case to the Central Jakarta District Prosecutor's Office. The suspect, identified as HS, allegedly issued sailing permits for coal shipments despite knowing the company's licence had been terminated. The case involves irregularities in mining management in Central Kalimantan between 2016 and 2025.

AHY Ahead of Prabowo's Speech: He Will Deliver Important, Philosophical Matters

Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY), Chairman of the Democratic Party, expressed enthusiasm ahead of President Prabowo Subianto's state address on the eve of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. AHY, who also serves as Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, anticipates a speech covering fundamental, strategic, and philosophical themes. He affirmed his party's commitment to supporting the government, particularly in the areas of economy, welfare, law, justice, and democracy.

Coal Prices in Limbo as European Coal-Fired Electricity Hits Historic Low

Global coal prices are trading sideways amid mixed signals, with Chinese coking coal rising on scarcity while thermal coal demand softens. A landmark analysis reveals China and India simultaneously cut coal-fired power generation for the first time since 1973, driven by a renewable energy boom. Meanwhile, the European Union's coal share in electricity production fell to a record low of 9.2% in 2025.

Islamic Finance Literacy Declines, Economist Urges Top-Down Approach

A decline in Islamic financial literacy and inclusion rates in Indonesia's 2026 national survey has prompted calls for a strategic shift. Economist Yusuf Wibisono argues the current bottom-up approach has reached saturation, with some users abandoning Islamic products due to dissatisfaction. He advocates for stronger government-led, top-down policies to boost the sector's market share, which remains at just 7.5 percent after three decades.

Puan Maharani Arrives in Olive Green Kebaya for 2026 Annual and Joint Session

House Speaker Puan Maharani arrived at the parliament complex in Jakarta on Friday morning for the 2026 Annual and Joint Session, dressed in an olive green kebaya. The session, brought forward from its usual 16 August date to avoid a Sunday, will feature President Prabowo Subianto's state address and performance report of state institutions ahead of the 81st Independence Day. Other notable attendees included Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, MPR Speaker Ahmad Muzani, and several former vice presidents and cabinet ministers.

Impact Investing Indonesia Tembus 1,5 Miliar Dolar AS, Kolaborasi Jadi Kunci Perluasan Dampak

Indonesia has become the most active impact investing market in Southeast Asia, with capital deployment exceeding 1.5 billion US dollars. Stakeholders at the Impact Investment Festival 2026 emphasised that collaboration between regulators, investors, and social organisations is essential to connect capital with sustainable development initiatives. The forum highlighted the growing appetite for investments that deliver measurable social and environmental benefits alongside financial returns.

MPR Hopes Prabowo's Annual Session Speech Will Address 8 Percent Economic Growth Target

Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Eddy Soeparno has expressed hope that President Prabowo Subianto's address at the 2026 Annual Session will reinforce the roadmap for achieving 8 percent economic growth by 2028. The speech is expected to affirm the state's commitment to boosting the economy through downstreaming, energy transition, and sustainable development. Soeparno also acknowledged ongoing improvements to the Free Nutritious Meals programme as part of the economic drive.

President Prabowo's motorcade arrives at Parliament Complex for 2026 State Address

President Prabowo Subianto arrived at the Parliament Complex in Senayan, Jakarta, on Friday morning to deliver his state address during the 2026 Annual Session of the MPR and the Joint Session of the DPR-DPD. The President is scheduled to present a report on the performance of state institutions and development achievements. He will later deliver the government's statement on the 2027 State Budget Bill during a plenary session.

House Member Hopes President's Speech Focuses on Welfare

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has urged President Prabowo Subianto to use his state address to reaffirm the government's commitment to public welfare and development priorities, particularly through the 2027 state budget. Nurul Arifin also addressed plans for new military commands, stating they are intended to strengthen national defence and should not be prejudged. The speech is scheduled to be delivered during the annual parliamentary session ahead of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day.

Prabowo Prepares for State Address at MPR, Jokowi and JK Among Attendees

President Prabowo Subianto arrived at the Parliament Complex in Jakarta to deliver his state address during the MPR annual session. The event was attended by former presidents and vice presidents, including Joko Widodo and Jusuf Kalla, as well as cabinet ministers. The address forms part of the commemorations for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day and will include a report on the performance of state institutions.

Restrictions Incoming! These Vehicles Can Still Use Subsidised Pertalite Fuel

The Indonesian government is planning to restrict subsidised Pertalite fuel purchases, primarily targeting luxury cars and high-income groups. Motorcycles will be exempt from the new rules, while the policy aims to prevent wealthy households in the top two economic deciles from accessing the cheap petrol. The Energy Ministry confirmed the scheme is still under review, with a gradual implementation being considered.

Vice President Gibran and Cabinet Ministers Arrive at Parliament for 2026 Annual Session

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, accompanied by his wife Selvi Ananda Putri, arrived at the parliament complex in Jakarta on Friday morning to attend the 2026 MPR Annual Session and the Joint Session of the DPR and DPD. Several key ministers from the Red and White Cabinet, including Coordinating Ministers Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono, Pratikno, and Muhaimin Iskandar, were also in attendance. The state officials were seen arriving at the venue ahead of the annual constitutional event.

Prabowo Attends 2026 Annual Session and Joint Session

President Prabowo Subianto arrived at the parliament complex in Senayan, Jakarta, to deliver his state address at the 2026 MPR Annual Session and the Joint Session of the DPR and DPD. The event, marking the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence, includes a morning speech on the performance of state institutions and an afternoon address on the 2027 State Budget Bill.

Prabowo Arrives at Parliament Building, Carrying Two Key Speeches

President Prabowo Subianto arrived at the Indonesian Parliament complex on Friday morning to deliver two significant addresses. He was welcomed by parliamentary leaders before proceeding to the chamber for a photo session with Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka. The President is scheduled to speak first at the MPR Annual Session, followed by a second speech at the Joint Session of the DPR and DPD later in the day.

Prabowo Arrives at Parliament Building, Set to Deliver Two Speeches Today

President Prabowo Subianto arrived at the Parliament Complex in Jakarta to deliver his State Address. He is scheduled to give two speeches, the first during the MPR Annual Session and a joint session of the DPR and DPD. The second address will be delivered at a DPR plenary meeting later in the day.

Pelita Air Offers Up to 45% Discount on All Routes for Independence Day

Pelita Air is offering discounts of up to 45% on all domestic and international routes to commemorate the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence. The promotion aims to boost public mobility and support national economic growth through increased tourism and business activity. Tickets for the 'Merdeka Surprice' offer can be purchased from 16 to 18 August 2026 for travel between 17 August and 24 October 2026.

MPR Leadership Hopes Prabowo Will Address 8% Economic Growth Target in Speech

Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Eddy Soeparno expressed hope that President Prabowo Subianto will discuss the 8% economic growth target during his state address. The speech is part of the MPR Annual Session and the Joint Session of the DPD-DPR, which will also deliberate on the state budget. Soeparno believes the President will reinforce commitments to downstreaming, energy transition, and sustainable development to boost the national economy.

Purbaya Increases Customs Budget, Launches War on Smuggling

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has boosted the operational budget for the Directorate General of Customs and Excise to intensify the fight against smuggling and business fraud. The additional funding, exceeding Rp1 billion, aims to enhance enforcement capabilities and improve the agency's public image. The government expects this move to strengthen supervision, curb illegal practices, and boost state revenue.

President Prabowo Arrives at DPR/MPR Building for Annual Session

President Prabowo Subianto arrived at the Parliament Complex in Jakarta on Friday morning to attend the MPR Annual Session. He was greeted by parliamentary leaders and other senior officials, including Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka. The President is scheduled to deliver a state address and present a report on the performance of state institutions.

Anwar Ibrahim Faces Internal Conflict, Electoral Defeats Loom Over PKR Congress

Malaysia's Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) is holding its annual congress under the shadow of recent electoral setbacks and deepening internal divisions. The party, led by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, faces challenges from a new splinter group and dissent over fund allocations, raising questions about its stability and future direction.

Prabowo to Deliver Speech, DPR Hopes Annual Session Runs Smoothly

President Prabowo Subianto is set to deliver his first state address on the 2027 state budget during the annual MPR session today. The House of Representatives has confirmed preparations are complete and expressed hope the proceedings will run smoothly. The session will also feature a report on the performance of state institutions.

DPR Deputy Speaker Dasco Hopes Annual Session and Joint Session Run Smoothly Today

Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, expressed hope that the MPR Annual Session and the DPR-DPD Joint Session would proceed smoothly on Friday. The session will feature President Prabowo Subianto's state address and the presentation of the 2027 State Budget draft. The agenda has been shortened to accommodate Friday prayers.

Ahead of MPR Annual Session, Dasco Hopes Proceedings Run Smoothly

Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad confirmed final checks have been completed for the MPR Annual Session and the Joint Session of the DPR and DPD. The agenda includes the President's speech on the 2027 State Budget Bill. Dasco noted the schedule has been slightly condensed to accommodate Friday prayers.