Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 17 August 2026

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Earthquake Death Toll in NTT Reaches 68

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has confirmed that 68 people have died following the M 7.7 earthquake that struck Nusa Tenggara Timur on Saturday. Hundreds more have been injured, with victims spread across seven regencies. The government has deployed field hospitals, health crisis teams, and military assets to support the emergency response.

BNPB to Immediately Prepare Field Hospital in Manggarai

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) is preparing to build a field hospital in Manggarai after the 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, damaged the regional public hospital. Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno directed the BNPB to establish the temporary facility at Golo Dukal Stadium. The government is prioritising the needs of patients and affected residents during the emergency response period.

On Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, OJK strengthens financial services' contribution to national economy

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has reaffirmed its commitment to bolstering the financial services sector's role in supporting national development. Speaking at the 81st Independence Day ceremony, OJK Board of Commissioners Chair Friderica Widyasari Dewi stressed the need for a strong, stable and integrity-driven financial sector. She also highlighted the importance of expanding access to finance for MSMEs, women, youth and communities in frontier, outermost and least developed regions.

How PAN Shared Happiness with Residents on the 81st Anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia

The National Mandate Party (PAN) held a public entertainment and culinary event in West Bandung Regency to celebrate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. Party figures, including Putri Zulkifli Hasan and Verrel Bramasta, engaged with residents and supported local micro, small and medium enterprises. The event aimed to foster national unity and deliver a message of togetherness and solidarity.

Reviewing NTT Earthquake Zone, Public Works Minister Dody Leads Ceremony in Ende

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo led Indonesia's 81st Independence Day ceremony in Ende, East Nusa Tenggara, while the region grapples with the aftermath of a magnitude 7.7 earthquake. He affirmed the ministry's commitment to emergency response and infrastructure restoration for affected communities. The earthquake, one of the largest globally this year, has killed at least 47 people and displaced around 2,000 residents.

Australian Foreign Minister Extends Independence Day Greetings and Condolences for NTT Earthquake

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong has conveyed congratulations on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day while expressing deep condolences over the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara that killed at least 53 people. Wong highlighted the historical ties between the two nations, noting Australia's early de facto recognition of Indonesia in 1947 and its role in bringing the Dutch military aggression to the UN Security Council. She reaffirmed that no relationship is more important to Australia than its partnership with Indonesia.

West Papua drafts marine spatial plan to protect coral reef ecosystems

The West Papua provincial government is preparing a marine spatial plan (RTRW) aimed at protecting coral reef ecosystems from human activity and climate change impacts. The document will undergo public and technical consultations before being integrated with the provincial spatial plan. The initiative follows the region's revised development plan and accounts for the reduced coastline after the creation of Southwest Papua Province.

Trustworthy and Beneficial Leadership

An opinion piece reflects on nearly a century of Indonesian independence, arguing that true freedom must mean liberation from poverty, ignorance and fear. It calls for leadership that upholds the social justice principles of Pancasila and the 1945 Constitution, ensuring that sovereignty remains with the people rather than an oligarchy.

BNPB Reports No More Missing Persons in NTT Earthquake Zone

The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has confirmed that there are no longer any reports of missing persons following the magnitude 7 earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). Search and rescue teams remain on standby across seven affected districts, while the Ministry of Health has deployed two field hospitals to support victims. The death toll currently stands at 68, with 213 people injured.

Face-to-face Learning Suspended in Three Regencies Following NTT Earthquake

Face-to-face teaching at senior high, vocational, and special needs schools in three regencies of Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, has been temporarily halted following a major earthquake. The suspension applies during the 14-day emergency response period from 15 to 28 August 2026. Schools have also been instructed to report any building damage and to avoid using structures showing cracks or other signs of instability.

Iran Insists America Has No Right to Transit the Strait of Hormuz

A senior Iranian military commander has declared that United States forces have no right of passage through the Strait of Hormuz, the Persian Gulf, or the Gulf of Oman. General Amir Hatami said American troops had been expelled and would never be allowed to return to their previous status. The remarks come amid reports that Iran and Oman have reached an agreement to fully open the strait to shipping, pending approval from Iran's Supreme National Security Council.

Arab leaders congratulate Indonesia on 81st Independence Day

Leaders from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar have sent congratulatory messages to President Prabowo Subianto and the Indonesian people on the country's 81st Independence Day. Russian President Vladimir Putin and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also conveyed their congratulations, highlighting the strategic value of bilateral relations with Indonesia.

Bogor Botanical Gardens combines tourism and culture to enliven Indonesian Independence Day

Bogor Botanical Gardens in West Java is hosting a three-day celebration for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, blending traditional arts, community games, and a flag ceremony. The event also supports the local economy by featuring a culinary bazaar with ten UMKM tenants from Bogor. Organisers aim to position the gardens as both a recreational space and a platform for showcasing local culture and small businesses.

Prabowo Leads Flag-Lowering Ceremony for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day at the Palace

President Prabowo Subianto presided over the flag-lowering ceremony marking Indonesia's 81st Independence Day at Merdeka Palace in Jakarta. The event was attended by Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, parliamentary leaders, and senior cabinet members. The ceremony featured the Paskibraka team, with Neeltje Deliana Insjowi Werimon from Papua entrusted as the flag bearer.

BGN Permanently Closes 1,300 Problematic SPPG Kitchens

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has permanently shut down approximately 1,300 problematic nutrition service units (SPPG) following a comprehensive evaluation of safety and quality standards. The move comes after a food poisoning incident in Berastagi and aims to protect beneficiaries, particularly children, from health risks. BGN is also considering deploying chemical test kits in all kitchens to detect harmful substances such as arsenic or spoiled food.

Leading 81st Independence Day Ceremony, Freeport Boss Remembers Landslide Victims

PT Freeport Indonesia's President Director Tony Wenas led the company's 81st Independence Day ceremony in Tembagapura, Papua, honouring employees who died in a September 2025 mud rush and a shooting incident in early 2026. He reaffirmed the company's commitment to safety as a non-negotiable principle. Freeport McMoRan reported that remediation is complete and production capacity is projected to reach 65% by the end of the second half of 2026.

Home Affairs Deputy Minister Explains Civil Servant Work Flexibility on 18 August

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya has clarified that the work flexibility granted to civil servants on 18 August is not an additional public holiday or collective leave day. The measure is intended to allow citizens who have not yet held community celebrations for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day to do so. Private companies are merely encouraged, not required, to offer similar flexibility to their employees.

A Look at the 81st Indonesian Independence Day Banquet at the State Palace, Serving Archipelago Culinary Delights

The 81st Indonesian Independence Day celebration at the State Palace featured a people's banquet showcasing traditional cuisine from various micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Vendors expressed pride in participating, with one receiving an order for 1,100 portions. The event provided a space for the public and local businesses to come together, complementing the national commemoration.

Bank BSN Prepares Business Transformation and Expansion of Sharia Financial Access

Bank Syariah Nasional (Bank BSN) is accelerating its business transformation to broaden access to sharia financial services, with a focus on housing finance, support for entrepreneurs, and digital development. Managing Director Alex Sofjan Noor emphasised that the bank's role extends beyond deposit-taking and lending to expanding public access to Islamic finance. The initiative is framed as part of the bank's contribution to Indonesia's progress, underpinned by its five corporate values known as Bintang BSN.

PLN sends recovery teams to remote areas affected by Flores earthquake

State electricity company PLN has dispatched recovery teams to isolated areas of Flores, including Palue Island and Golo Lebo, after the main power system was restored. The teams are repairing damaged solar power plants, battery systems and mobile generators, with access challenges requiring sea transport. PLN says it will continue deploying resources until electricity supply is fully restored across all affected areas.

Flores Earthquake Update: 68 Dead and 213 Injured

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has reported that 68 people have died and 213 have been injured following the earthquake in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. Recovery efforts are progressing, with electricity restored to 99.5% of affected customers and telecommunications networks 95.4% recovered. The government has deployed field hospitals, medical teams, and over 1,400 personnel to support the emergency response.

KKP Showcases Fisheries MSMEs at Konawe Marine Products Bazaar

The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has brought together around 15 fisheries micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) for a marine products bazaar at the Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih (KNMP) in Konawe, Southeast Sulawesi. The initiative aims to empower coastal communities economically, with the Financial Services Authority (OJK) providing financial literacy consultations and Bulog offering affordable staple foods. Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono highlighted that the site is one of 100 completed KNMP locations, with a target of 1,269 points ready for inauguration by President Prabowo Subianto by the end of the year.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister: 18 August is not a collective leave day

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has clarified that the government has not designated 18 August 2026 as a public holiday or collective leave day for civil servants. However, regional governments have been asked to provide flexibility for communities wishing to hold people's parties to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The policy aims to maintain communal spirit while keeping the schedule flexible.

Fashion Experts Highlight Traditional Elements in Cabinet Secretary Teddy's Attire at Indonesia's 81st Independence Day

Fashion experts have praised Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya's choice of a brown suit at Indonesia's 81st Independence Day ceremony, noting its strong traditional and earthy character. Designers from the Indonesian Fashion Chamber and APPMI interpreted the earth-tone colour as symbolising readiness for work, humility, toughness, and discipline. They cautioned against reading specific symbolic meanings into the choice without official explanation.

Palace Invites Public to Break Free from Algorithm

Presidential Special Adviser on Communication Hasan Nasbi has urged Indonesians to interpret independence as freedom from the influence of social media algorithms. Speaking after the 81st Independence Day ceremony at the Presidential Palace, he called on the public to consume information more critically and focus on the substance of speeches rather than viral excerpts. He also noted that President Prabowo Subianto has instructed ministers to remain on the ground in East Nusa Tenggara to support earthquake response efforts.

Trump's son-in-law to meet Netanyahu over Gaza plan

Jared Kushner, US President Donald Trump's special envoy and son-in-law, is set to meet Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss the next steps in Trump's Gaza plan. He will be accompanied by former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and Nickolay Mladenov, the Peace Council's high representative for Gaza. The meeting aims to press Netanyahu to proceed with the plan's next phase, including Hamas disarmament and the deployment of an international stabilisation force.

Ad Hoc Court for State-Owned Enterprises Considered at Risk of Overlapping with Corruption Court

A University of Indonesia state-owned enterprise analyst has warned that a proposed ad hoc court for state-owned enterprises could overlap with the existing Corruption Court. Toto Pranoto stressed that judges must understand the Business Judgement Rule so that corporate losses are not automatically treated as criminal acts. He urged the government and parliament to clarify the legal basis, authority, and procedures before establishing the court.

Pertamina dispatches 11 fuel tankers from Bima to Flores

Pertamina Patra Niaga has dispatched 11 fuel tankers and one avtur tanker from Bima to Labuan Bajo to accelerate energy supply normalisation following the Flores earthquake. The company reports that 47 of 52 petrol stations have resumed operations, with five still being monitored. The move is part of broader efforts to restore fuel distribution to affected communities in East Nusa Tenggara.

Bandung City Square Reopens on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day

Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan officially reopened Alun-alun Kota Bandung to the public on Monday, coinciding with the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence. The reopening follows months of evaluation and repairs after public complaints about facility conditions. A new management scheme has been introduced, including restricted access and a ban on street vendors within the park area.

Video: Unpacking the Palace Goodie Bag at Indonesia's 81st Independence Day

Thousands of Indonesians gathered at the presidential palace in traditional dress to celebrate the 81st anniversary of independence. Attendees received special goodie bags, the contents of which are revealed in a CNBC Indonesia video report. The event highlighted public enthusiasm for the national commemoration.

Profile of Police Senior Commissioner Jerrold Kumontoy, Commander of the Flag-Lowering Ceremony

Police Senior Commissioner Jerrold Hendra Yosef Kumontoy was entrusted as the Commander of the Flag-Lowering Ceremony at the 81st Anniversary of Indonesian Independence at Merdeka Palace, Jakarta. Currently serving as Balikpapan Police Chief, he was selected after a competitive process involving officers from the TNI and Polri. Kumontoy, a native of Tomohon, North Sulawesi, expressed gratitude for the honour of representing the National Police in this state ceremony.

Gibran and Selvi Ananda Arrive at Palace for Independence Day Flag-Lowering Ceremony

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka and his wife Selvi Ananda attended the flag-lowering ceremony for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day at Merdeka Palace. Senior state officials including the speakers of the MPR, DPR, and DPD were also present. The ceremony featured the Indonesia Adil Makmur Paskibraka team, with representatives from Papua, West Sulawesi, East Nusa Tenggara, West Nusa Tenggara, and West Kalimantan taking key roles.

Polda Metro Jaya Dispatches Aid for NTT Earthquake Victims via Halim

Polda Metro Jaya marked Indonesia's 81st Independence Day by sending 12 trucks of humanitarian aid to earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara. The aid, which includes food, blankets, and tarpaulins, was dispatched from Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base after coordination with the NTT regional police. The police leadership framed the initiative as a demonstration of national unity and mutual assistance.

Education Synergy in Central Java: USIP Pemalang Signs MoU with TeacherPreneur Nusantara

Universitas Islam Pemalang (USIP) has signed a memorandum of understanding with TeacherPreneur Nusantara to strengthen collaboration in education. The agreement was signed on 16 August 2026, one day before Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. Both parties expressed optimism that the partnership will enhance educational development in Central Java and Indonesia.

PNM expands ultra-micro business participation in economic growth

PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) is broadening the involvement of ultra-micro entrepreneurs in economic activity through financing and business mentoring, aiming to ensure growth is not concentrated solely among large-scale economic players. The state-owned enterprise argues that millions of small businesses create daily money circulation and longer economic chains within local communities. PNM views expanded financing access as needing to go hand in hand with capacity building, market access, and networking support.

Iran Offers Rp500 Million Reward for Capturing US Soldiers

Iran's army has announced a bounty of US$30,000 for anyone who kills or captures an American soldier, with the amount doubled for women. The announcement marks a further escalation in tensions between Tehran and Washington amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Iran also reiterated its demand that the United States withdraw from the region.

Bobby Kertanegara the Cat Joins 81st Indonesian Independence Day Flag-Lowering Ceremony at the Palace

President Prabowo Subianto's cat, Bobby Kertanegara, made an appearance at the 81st Indonesian Independence Day flag-lowering ceremony at Merdeka Palace in Jakarta. The cat was brought to the palace in a stroller and shown to journalists before being taken inside. The ceremony was led by President Prabowo, with the Paskibraka team 'Indonesia Adil Makmur' carrying out the flag-lowering duties.

Welcoming Independence Day, BI Launches Indonesian Credit Card and 0% QRIS MDR

Bank Indonesia has launched the Indonesian Credit Card and expanded the 0% Merchant Discount Rate policy for QRIS transactions as part of the 81st Independence Day celebrations. The new domestic credit card supports deferred payments processed locally, while the MDR expansion extends zero-fee transactions to all merchant categories for payments up to Rp100,000. The central bank says the measures aim to boost digital payment adoption, support micro and small businesses, and strengthen national economic resilience.

Pramono says Jakarta economy resilient with 5.52 percent growth in Q2

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung reported that the capital's economy grew 5.52 percent in the second quarter of 2026, contributing 16.32 percent to Indonesia's GDP, with inflation held at 2.5 percent. He emphasised that development must be accompanied by equitable distribution of benefits, citing expanded education access through programmes like KJP Plus and KJMU. The governor also highlighted environmental initiatives, governance reforms including municipal bonds, and a nine-year unqualified audit opinion from the BPK.

Bank Mandiri Distributes Tents and Basic Necessities to NTT Earthquake Victims

Bank Mandiri has dispatched emergency aid, including tents, mattresses, blankets and staple foods, to communities affected by the 7.7-magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The assistance is being coordinated with local disaster agencies and other state-owned enterprises under Danantara to accelerate post-disaster recovery. The bank is also monitoring its branch operations and staff in the affected areas to ensure banking services remain reliable.

Chinese Tourists Injured in NTT Earthquake

China's Foreign Ministry has confirmed that several of its citizens were injured in the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara on Saturday. The Chinese consulate in Denpasar has activated an emergency response mechanism to protect its nationals. Indonesian authorities report 38 deaths and around 2,000 people affected, while tourism facilities in the Labuan Bajo area sustained varying degrees of damage.

Coordinating Ministry for Political and Security Affairs strengthens unity and service on Independence Day

The Coordinating Ministry for Political and Security Affairs (Kemenko Polkam) marked Indonesia's 81st Independence Day with a flag ceremony and cultural displays, emphasising unity and professional public service. The ministry highlighted the occasion as a reminder to strengthen coordination in maintaining political and security stability as a foundation for national development.

NTT Earthquake: Pertamina Accelerates Recovery of Fuel and LPG Supply in Flores

State energy firm Pertamina is rapidly restoring fuel and LPG distribution across Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, following a major earthquake. Most fuel terminals and petrol stations have resumed operations, with alternative supply routes and sea transport deployed to reach areas cut off by landslides. The company is coordinating with local government and regulators to complete the recovery while urging the public to use energy supplies wisely.

Indonesia 81 Years of Independence: A Look at 8 Concrete Contributions by BRI to the Nation

As Indonesia marks its 81st Independence Day, state-owned Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) highlights its role as a strategic partner in national development. The bank emphasises its commitment to strengthening the people's economy, particularly through support for MSMEs and expanding financial access to remote regions. BRI reports that its MSME credit portfolio reached approximately Rp1,235 trillion by the end of the second quarter of 2026.

Mataram Tourism Office adopts thematic concept to optimise destination potential

The Mataram Tourism Office in West Nusa Tenggara is developing thematic concepts for each tourist destination based on local characteristics and strengths. The strategy aims to target specific market segments more effectively, with destinations such as Taman Mayura focusing on wellness tourism and Loang Baloq highlighting traditional Sasak cultural attractions. The government is providing support, mentoring, and promotion to help these destinations grow sustainably.

Kemkomdigi strengthens digital sovereignty through three priority agendas

Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Kemkomdigi) has outlined three priority agendas to bolster national digital sovereignty, including the development of the National Data Centre, crackdowns on online gambling, and enforcement of child protection regulations in digital spaces. The initiatives align with President Prabowo Subianto's directives and the ministry's 2025โ€“2029 strategic plan. The ministry reports significant progress, including the closure of 32,500 bank accounts linked to online gambling and the deactivation of 4.7 million child accounts on digital platforms.

81st Indonesian Independence Day Celebrations at Monas and Bundaran HI Feature Video Mapping and Carnival

The Indonesian government has organised a series of events to celebrate the 81st anniversary of independence in Jakarta, featuring immersive installations, video mapping, a decorated vehicle carnival, and a drone show. Creative Economy Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya stated that the events involve thousands of creative talents and aim to tell the story of Indonesia's journey through time. The celebrations are being held at the National Monument (Monas) and the Hotel Indonesia Roundabout from 6 p.m. onwards.

10-12 Bulog Warehouses Affected by NTT Earthquake, Rice Distribution Remains Safe

Perum Bulog has reported that between 10 and 12 of its warehouses in East Nusa Tenggara sustained light to moderate damage following the 6.2 magnitude earthquake. The state logistics agency has dispatched a director to survey the affected structures, while confirming that rice stocks remain dry and secure. No personnel casualties have been reported among Bulog employees in the region.

Forestry Ministry continues cooling operations at Bromo fire site to ensure no remaining embers

The Ministry of Forestry is carrying out mopping-up operations at the Mount Bromo forest and land fire site in East Java to ensure no residual embers reignite. Officials warn that thick layers of savanna vegetation and leaf litter could harbour hidden heat, while local dust devils pose a risk of spreading embers. The ministry is using the incident to strengthen fire prevention measures ahead of the dry season.

Independence Day renews commitment to justice, welfare: House Speaker

House Speaker Puan Maharani used Indonesia's 81st Independence Day ceremony to call for strengthened national unity, sovereignty, and equitable development. She urged state officials to prioritise public welfare and national interests over personal ones, while President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka presided over the proclamation re-enactment in traditional attire.