Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 15 August 2026

Showing 351-400 of 1,053 articles

Geological Agency Finds Indications of Liquefaction After NTT Earthquake

The Geological Agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has identified indications of liquefaction in Waekokak following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. The liquefaction, characterised by sandy water or mud eruptions, is considered relatively safe and unlike the Palu-type liquefaction. The agency has urged residents to remain calm and vigilant against aftershocks.

Danantara Has Closed 290 State-Owned Enterprises

Danantara CEO Rosan Perkasa Roeslani has announced that 290 state-owned enterprises (BUMN) have been closed as part of a transformation programme to streamline their management. The closures were carried out through divestment, mergers, liquidation, and vertical consolidation. The government aims to reduce the total number of BUMN to around 300 by the end of the year.

ICITRI 2026 at Nusa Mandiri University Reaches 11 Countries, 79 Scientific Articles Pass International Selection

Nusa Mandiri University's International Conference on Information Technology Research and Innovation (ICITRI) 2026 has accepted 79 scientific articles from researchers across 11 countries and 89 institutional affiliations. The conference highlights growing international recognition of the university as a hub for IT research dissemination. Organisers say the event aims to foster cross-border collaboration and innovation in the digital transformation era.

Indonesia to export 1,000 tons of premium rice to Malaysia

Indonesia's state logistics agency Bulog has signed an agreement to export premium rice to Malaysia, starting with an initial shipment of 1,000 tons and potentially rising to 200,000 tons annually. The deal, witnessed by Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman, is presented as evidence of Indonesia's strengthening food security and growing rice production, with government reserves at around 5.2 million metric tons. Officials emphasised that domestic supply will remain the priority despite the new export push.

Uproar over 30,000 Tonnes of Gold Treasure in Banten Plundered by Foreigners

The Cikotok gold mine in Banten, once a major source of colonial wealth, produced tens of thousands of tonnes of gold ore but largely benefited the Dutch colonial government rather than local people. The mine operated from the 1920s until its closure in 2005, when reserves were declared exhausted. Its legacy continues through larger operations such as Freeport in Papua.

KSPSI's Andi Gani Raises Rp 1 Billion for Victims of M 7 Nagekeo Earthquake in NTT

Andi Gani Nena Wea, President of the All-Indonesia Workers Union Confederation (KSPSI), has mobilised Rp 1 billion in aid for victims of the magnitude 7 earthquake that struck Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara. The funds, raised through Ajaib Group and other donors, will be channelled via the Nagekeo regent and local church leaders. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has recorded 38 fatalities, two serious injuries, and around 2,000 displaced persons.

Bapanas chief affirms Indonesia is experienced in facing El Nino

Indonesia's National Food Agency head Andi Amran Sulaiman says the country is well prepared for the current strong El Nino, with government rice reserves reaching 5.2 million tonnes by mid-August 2026. He contrasts this with 2023, when weaker preparation led to imports of 7 million tonnes. The government has also expanded reserves of other food commodities to mitigate the impact of a longer, drier dry season.

986 Tourists Temporarily Stranded on Padar Island After M7 Earthquake in NTT

Nearly a thousand tourists were temporarily stranded on Padar Island in East Nusa Tenggara after a magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck the Mbay-Nagekeo area on Saturday morning. The Tourism Ministry halted sea travel as a safety precaution following the quake and a tsunami warning, but all tourists have since been safely returned to Labuan Bajo. Several tourism facilities in Flores sustained damage, though no casualties were reported among visitors or hotel staff.

Wings Air Cancels 8 Flights in Ende, NTT Following M 7.7 Earthquake

Wings Air has cancelled eight flights to and from H Aroeboesman Airport in Ende, East Nusa Tenggara, following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake centred in the Flores Sea. The airline cited force majeure and prioritised safety while conducting operational assessments at affected airports. Affected passengers are entitled to reschedule or receive refunds in accordance with applicable regulations.

76 Paskibraka Members for 81st Independence Day at Merdeka Palace Inaugurated by Vice President Gibran

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming has inaugurated 76 members of the national flag-hoisting squad (Paskibraka) who will serve at the 81st Independence Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace on 17 August 2026. The ceremony took place at the State Palace, with President Prabowo Subianto absent. The members recited the Paskibraka pledge led by BPIP head Yudian Wahyudi, affirming their commitment to Pancasila and the unitary state.

Supreme Court Justice Candidate Yeheskiel Urges Strengthening of Tax Court

Supreme Court justice candidate Yeheskiel Minggus Tiranda has called for reform of Indonesia's Tax Court, arguing that the rapid growth of the digital economy has outpaced the conventional tax regime. He highlighted that while the government has introduced substantive regulations such as the VAT on digital trade scheme, the adjudicative side has not kept pace. Yeheskiel also pointed to the dual oversight structure of the Tax Court, which sits under both the Supreme Court and the Ministry of Finance.

Aceh peace figure: GAM flag as history, not for other interests

Finnish peace negotiator Juha Christensen has urged Acehnese to respect the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) flag as a historical symbol rather than using it for other purposes. Speaking after the 21st Aceh Peace Day commemoration, he warned against actions that could disturb the peace, referencing a flag-raising incident at Baiturrahman Grand Mosque. Christensen also stressed the importance of political unity and security to attract investment and boost Aceh's economy.

BMKG Records 235 Aftershocks in NTT

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has recorded 235 aftershocks following the magnitude 7 earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, with magnitudes ranging from 2.5 to 6.8. The agency expects the aftershock activity to decay gradually over two to three weeks. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has confirmed 38 fatalities, two serious injuries, 11 minor injuries, and around 2,000 people displaced.

Tourists Panic as NTT Earthquake Shakes Padar Island

A strong earthquake centred at sea in the Nagekeo region caused panic among tourists on Padar Island in Komodo National Park on Saturday. The death toll from the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara has reached 25 people across several areas. Around 2,000 residents have been displaced and are carrying out self-evacuation in anticipation of possible aftershocks.

DPRD Deputy Speaker on TransJakarta Concept for Thousand Islands: No Waiting for Full Boat

The Jakarta Provincial Government plans to extend TransJakarta services to the Thousand Islands using boats that operate on a fixed schedule rather than waiting for full passenger loads. Deputy Speaker Basri Baco expressed DPRD support for the plan, emphasising that the concept refers to the operational pattern rather than the vehicle type. Management arrangements are still under discussion, with options including PT Transportasi Jakarta or the Jakarta Transportation Agency.

Central Java's 81st Anniversary: Speling Brings Specialist Doctors Closer

The Central Java provincial government's mobile specialist doctor programme, Speling, has delivered free healthcare services to over 128,000 residents across 1,378 villages. The initiative addresses geographical and financial barriers to specialist care, with a focus on maternal and child health, tuberculosis screening, and mental health services. The programme has also been integrated with the national free health check-up scheme, contributing to Central Java recording the highest participation in Indonesia.

Death Toll Continues to Rise After NTT Earthquake, BNPB Chief Says 38 People Have Died as of This Afternoon

The death toll from the 7.7-magnitude earthquake centred in Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, has risen to 38 as of Saturday afternoon, according to the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). Two people were seriously injured and 11 others sustained minor injuries, while around 2,000 residents have been displaced. Infrastructure damage includes landslides, dozens of damaged homes, one hospital in Maumere, several community health centres, and five airport terminal buildings.

Iran Insists It Has Not Decided to Resume Negotiations with US

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has denied that ongoing communications with mediators Qatar and Pakistan signal a resumption of negotiations with the United States. He clarified that the 60-day period in the Islamabad Memorandum was intended as a negotiating window, not a ceasefire duration. Araghchi also confirmed separate technical talks with Oman regarding new shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz.

Banyuwangi Regent says presidential priority programmes align with local development agenda

Banyuwangi Regent Ipuk Fiestiandani has stated that the eight priority programmes announced by President Prabowo Subianto for 2027 are in line with the development agenda already being implemented in the East Java regency. She highlighted local initiatives in food sovereignty, education, health and poverty reduction that mirror the national priorities. The regent said the alignment between national policy and regional programmes would ensure the benefits of development are felt more widely by the public.

UBSI Implements IoT-Based Smart-Mushroom House in Argapura Village, Bogor

Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) has deployed an Internet of Things (IoT) system to automate climate control in an oyster mushroom cultivation house in Argapura Village, Bogor. The project utilises shredded oil palm empty fruit bunches as a growing medium and includes a web-based monitoring interface with Wi-Fi connectivity for remote oversight by local farmers. The initiative, funded by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, has been welcomed by the Barokah Harapan Kita farming group as a step towards sustainable economic benefits.

Young Karateka from People's School Introduced by Prabowo at DPR

President Prabowo Subianto introduced Citra Nur Ramadhani, a young karate athlete from a People's School in South Sulawesi, during the annual session of the MPR and joint session of the DPR and DPD. Citra, who nearly dropped out of school to help her widowed mother sell peanuts, has since excelled in karate and academics after enrolling in the government's People's School programme. Her story was highlighted as an example of the government's efforts to break the cycle of poverty through education and support for underprivileged children.

Observer: Producers shift to fortified rice amid price ceiling pressure

Agricultural observer Khudori says some rice producers are shifting part of their output to fortified rice as high grain prices squeeze margins on medium and premium rice, which remain subject to retail price ceilings. He notes that farm-gate grain prices have exceeded Rp8,000 per kilogram, well above the government purchase price of Rp6,500, making it difficult for producers to stay within the HET. Khudori calls for an evaluation of rice pricing policy to ensure producers do not cut output of the rice most needed by consumers.

World Envious! These Rare Plants and Animals Only Exist in Indonesia

Indonesia's extraordinary biodiversity, home to roughly 17% of the world's wildlife, is increasingly being supported through sustainable financing instruments such as green sukuk. The Ministry of Environment and Forestry received US$2.7 million last year for the Maluku Conservation Center, while researchers continue to discover new species, including 29 new flora types between 2025 and 2026. The article highlights iconic endemic species and stresses the importance of balancing biodiversity use with long-term sustainability under the blue economy framework.

Video: Silver Trading - US Stocks on Futures Exchange Increasingly Popular

The head of Valbury Asia Futures says gold transactions are supporting trading on Indonesia's futures exchange amid current market volatility. He expects the US Federal Reserve's pause on interest rate hikes to act as a positive catalyst for gold instruments, while US technology stocks are also attracting Indonesian commodity futures traders. Silver has also seen significant gains during the current uncertainty.

Boy Rafli: 81st Indonesian Independence Day a moment to reflect on heroes' struggle

Former BNPT chief Boy Rafli Amar said the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence should serve as a moment to reflect on the struggle of the nation's heroes against colonialism. He made the remarks while launching a 'Touring Kemerdekaan RI' event organised by the SMA Negeri 37 Jakarta alumni association, with a stop chosen at kilometre 81 to mark the anniversary. The event aims to strengthen alumni bonds and inspire other school alumni associations to celebrate independence with similar spirit.

Siloam Jambi successfully treats brain aneurysm without open surgery

Siloam Hospitals Jambi has successfully treated a 66-year-old male patient with a brain aneurysm using a neurointervention procedure that avoided open surgery. The medical team performed coiling after detecting the aneurysm through Digital Subtraction Angiography. The hospital urged the public not to ignore sudden severe headaches accompanied by vomiting, blurred vision, stiff neck, or loss of consciousness.

Sikka Regent: Aftershocks Still Felt, Residents Not Yet Brave Enough to Return Home After Major Earthquake

Residents of Sikka Regency in East Nusa Tenggara remain in evacuation shelters as aftershocks continue following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake. Regent Juventus Prima Yoris Kago confirmed that over a thousand people have been displaced and that the local government will declare a state of emergency. Three fatalities have been recorded in Maumere, the regency's capital.

Legislator Supports Prabowo's Move to Eradicate Illegal Mining

House of Representatives member Edi Oloan Pasaribu has voiced support for President Prabowo Subianto's directive to intensify the crackdown on illegal mining operations. The legislator emphasised the need for comprehensive supervision, transparent law enforcement, and better coordination among state institutions. He also called for scrutiny of any officials suspected of protecting illegal mining activities.

Perumnas Pasadana offers home booking with 520 millilitres of used cooking oil

State-owned housing developer Perumnas has launched a scheme at its Pasadana project in Bandung allowing prospective buyers to book a home by collecting used cooking oil. The programme, starting August 2026, requires 520 millilitres of used cooking oil for one unit and 810 millilitres for two units. It aims to educate residents on sustainable household waste management while giving used cooking oil economic value.

North Sumatra Governor: MBG poisoning victim treated at Haji Hospital until recovery

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution has confirmed that a student suffering severe symptoms from suspected food poisoning linked to the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is being treated at Haji Hospital in Medan until full recovery. The student, from SMA Negeri 1 Berastagi, was among 361 pupils affected by a mass poisoning incident in Karo Regency and was referred to Medan after losing consciousness. Medical staff estimate the patient may require a further two to three days of intensive care.

Riau Police's Red and White Expedition Restores 1,200 Hectares of Abrasion-Hit Coast in Indragiri Hilir

The Riau Regional Police's Red and White Precision Expedition has reached Kuala Selat village in Indragiri Hilir to restore around 1,200 hectares of community land damaged by coastal abrasion in 2021. The initiative includes large-scale mangrove rehabilitation, with the Environment Minister committing to plant at least 500 hectares and potentially expand to 1,000 hectares. The programme aims to create green jobs and provide long-term social and economic benefits for coastal communities.

Prabowo's SOE amnesty idea aims to push governance reform: Minister

Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi clarified that President Prabowo Subianto's remarks about possible amnesty for state-owned enterprise executives were intended to signal a commitment to reforming SOE governance, not to initiate an amnesty process. Hadi said the government has not yet discussed granting amnesty and is focused on identifying and correcting past improper corporate practices. He noted that reforms, including consolidation under the Danantara asset management agency, have already produced significant profit improvements.

NTT Earthquake Update: BNPB Reports 38 Dead and 13 Injured

The death toll from the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara has risen to 38, with 13 people injured, according to Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). Around 2,000 residents have been displaced and are sheltering independently. The government has assured that emergency response efforts are ongoing, with damage assessments still under way.

Central Government Stands Ready to Assist with NTT Earthquake Response

The central government has placed assistance on standby to support areas affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi confirmed that reports on the disaster have been conveyed to President Prabowo Subianto. Coordination is underway with relevant agencies, including BMKG, Basarnas, and the provincial governor, to expedite emergency response and mitigation efforts.

Prabowo to Send 50,000 Food Packages for M7 Earthquake Victims in NTT

President Prabowo Subianto will dispatch 50,000 basic food packages within one to two days to assist victims of the magnitude 7 earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency and the Ministry of Social Affairs are also mobilising essential supplies, including clean water, tents, and generators. Logistics stockpiles from nearby districts, including reserves originally intended for Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki evacuees, will be redirected to the affected areas.

234 SRT 2 Banjarbaru students build character in new academic year

A total of 234 students at Sekolah Rakyat Terintegrasi (SRT) 2 Banjarbaru, South Kalimantan, have begun the 2026/2027 academic year with a school environment orientation programme. Banjarbaru Mayor Erna Lisa Halaby emphasised that the school represents the government's commitment to equal educational opportunities and character development. The institution has prepared boarding, dining and learning facilities to support students' independence and growth.

Central Java's 81st Anniversary: Thanks to the Speling Programme, Distance No Longer Causes Headaches

The Central Java provincial government's mobile specialist doctor programme, known as Speling, has brought free specialist healthcare to over 128,000 residents across 1,378 villages since March 2025. The initiative addresses geographical and financial barriers to healthcare access, with a focus on tuberculosis screening, cervical cancer checks, mental health services, and maternal and child health. Early detection efforts have identified thousands of cases requiring further treatment, including 3,311 pregnant women and 1,358 individuals needing mental health intervention.

Tangerang Becomes Initial Priority for Banten BPN

The Banten Regional Office of the National Land Agency (BPN) is prioritising Tangerang and South Tangerang for the initial rollout of its 10-day land title transfer service. Regional head Harison Mocodompis expressed optimism that full service transformation can be achieved through collaboration between BPN, land deed officials, and local governments. The initiative is part of a broader national push by Minister Nusron Wahid to provide faster, more certain land administration services.

When 14 Indonesian Economic Ministers Resigned Together, Here's Why

On 20 May 1998, amid a devastating monetary crisis, 14 Indonesian ministers—mostly from economic portfolios—collectively resigned from President Soeharto's newly formed cabinet. Led by Coordinating Minister Ginandjar Kartasasmita, the mass resignation signalled the collapse of elite confidence in Soeharto's leadership. The following day, Soeharto stepped down as president, ending his 32-year rule.

Landslide on Bajawa-Ende Route Following NTT Earthquake, Road Completely Cut Off

A landslide has completely blocked the Ende-Bajawa road in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, following a magnitude 7 earthquake on Saturday. The Ministry of Public Works has deployed heavy equipment to clear the debris, while the Minister of Transportation continues to monitor transport infrastructure in affected areas. Residents have been urged to remain vigilant for aftershocks.

Landslide in Bajawa-Ende Cuts Off Road Completely

A landslide has completely blocked the Ende-Bajawa road in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, following a magnitude 7 earthquake on Saturday. The Ministry of Public Works has deployed heavy equipment to clear the debris, while the Transport Minister continues to monitor transport infrastructure in the affected area. Residents have been urged to remain vigilant for aftershocks.

Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs requests removal of Hornet app from Play Store and App Store

Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs has asked Google and Apple to remove the Hornet app from their app stores following public complaints linking the platform to LGBTIQ+ campaigns. The ministry also cited Hornet's failure to register as an electronic system operator (PSE) in Indonesia. The move is part of broader enforcement of digital platform compliance with Indonesian law and norms.

Construction Worker Dies from Electrocution While Repairing Ceiling in Bantul

A 63-year-old construction worker was found dead on a ceiling in Bantul, Yogyakarta, after apparently being electrocuted while working. Police found burn marks on his right palm and no signs of violence, and the family has accepted the death as a workplace accident.

Plan Indonesia responds to needs of children affected by NTT earthquake

Plan Indonesia is mobilising rapid assessments and coordination with local authorities to ensure children's needs are prioritised in the humanitarian response following the M7.7 earthquake in Nusa Tenggara Timur. The organisation is preparing emergency shelter supplies, menstrual hygiene kits, and clean water access, with particular attention to the heightened risks faced by girls. The government has also confirmed a swift emergency response, with President Prabowo Subianto receiving updates and senior officials deploying to the affected area.

Voice of Baceprot Vocalist Highlights Deteriorated Road in Garut: Imagine the Feelings of Pregnant Women Passing Through

Voice of Baceprot vocalist Marsya has publicly criticised the severely damaged Banjarwangi-Singajaya road in Garut Regency, which has reportedly been left unrepaired for a long time. She highlighted the dangers faced by local residents, including pregnant women who have been forced to give birth en route to hospital due to the poor road conditions. Marsya also noted that residents using the road are active taxpayers and that the deteriorated state has led to accidents, with some motorists plunging into ravines.

Rosan Says Asian Investors Respond Positively to PFII

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani reported a positive response from Asian investors and family offices towards the development of the Indonesia International Financial Centre (PFII). A meeting in Nusa Dua, Bali, attracted 110 participants despite only 70 invitations being issued. The government plans to launch the PFII initially in Jakarta to capitalise on momentum, with Bali to follow once supporting infrastructure is completed.

Mount Merapi Shaken by 1,205 Earthquakes

Mount Merapi recorded 1,205 earthquakes and 98 pyroclastic flows over the past week, according to the Yogyakarta Geological Disaster Technology Research and Development Centre (BPPTKG). Lava dome volumes have increased, and the volcano remains at Level III (Siaga) alert status. Authorities have advised tourists not to climb to the summit.

7.7-magnitude quake in Nagekeo caused damage to buildings in Bima

A 7.7-magnitude earthquake centred offshore near Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara, caused structural damage in Bima, including a house, a Bulog warehouse, and a mosque ceiling. Local disaster agencies are assessing the full impact and have deployed rapid response teams to verify damage. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and avoid compromised buildings while prioritising relief items such as ready-to-eat meals, water, blankets, and emergency kits.

PBNU's Decision to Accept Mining Concession Deemed Contradictory to 'Merawat Jagad' Slogan

KH Roy Murtadho, a prominent Nahdlatul Ulama figure and Green Party chairman, has sharply criticised PBNU's acceptance of a mining concession, arguing it contradicts the organisation's 'Merawat Jagad, Membangun Peradaban' slogan. Speaking at an NU discussion forum at IPB, he recounted his direct experience witnessing the suffering of mining victims in Kalimantan. He called the decision a heavy blow to his advocacy efforts and urged collective correction within the organisation.

38 dead as of Saturday afternoon following M 7.7 earthquake in NTT

A magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, early Saturday has killed at least 38 people, with two seriously injured and 11 suffering minor injuries. Around 2,000 residents have been displaced, while damage has been reported to roads, homes, health facilities and five airports. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) issued a tsunami early warning following the quake, which was lifted at 07.30 WIB.