Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 17 August 2026

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Ship Carrying Aid and Heavy Equipment for NTT Earthquake Arrives in Ende

A ferry carrying logistical aid and heavy equipment for earthquake response in East Nusa Tenggara has arrived in Ende after departing from Kupang. The shipment includes food, drinking water, health supplies, and equipment to clear landslides and restore road access and communications. The death toll from the earthquake has reached 55, with 276 injured and over 11,500 displaced.

Wudhu Using Rainwater: LDII's Environmental Dakwah Initiative

The Lembaga Dakwah Islam Indonesia (LDII) in Yogyakarta has implemented a rainwater harvesting system at the Mantrijeron Multipurpose Building, using collected rainwater for ablution (wudhu) and other non-consumptive needs. The programme, which has been operational for nearly a year, aims to reduce dependence on groundwater and promote sustainable development. LDII views this initiative as part of its religious outreach, emphasising the duty to protect the earth for future generations.

On Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, ATR/BPN launches three land service transformations

The Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) has launched three land service transformations to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The reforms aim to provide greater time certainty, transparency and ease of access for the public in land administration. The initiatives include scheduled land measurement, integrated transfer of rights, and a new region-based organisational structure.

Floods and Landslides in the Philippines: 23 Dead Due to Cyclones Luis and Maymay

At least 23 people have died and thousands have been displaced across the Philippines after heavy rain triggered flash floods and landslides. The extreme weather, driven by an intensified southwest monsoon and tropical cyclones Luis and Maymay, has caused significant damage to infrastructure and agriculture in Luzon and parts of the Visayas. Authorities continue rescue and relief operations as further rainfall remains possible.

At 81st Independence Day Commemoration, Anindya Reveals Bakrie Group's Business Continues to Grow from Trade to Digital Technology

Anindya Novyan Bakrie, CEO of PT Bakrie Global Venture, highlighted the Bakrie Group's 84-year journey during Indonesia's 81st Independence Day ceremony. He emphasised the conglomerate's evolution from agricultural trade to industries including electric vehicles, new energy, and digital technology. Anindya stressed that resilience must now be matched by competitiveness as the group adapts to rapid global changes.

Indonesia Adil Makmur: Paskibraka Team at Flag-Lowering Ceremony

The 'Indonesia Adil Makmur' Paskibraka team carried out the flag-lowering ceremony for the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence at Merdeka Palace. The team comprised representatives from various provinces, with Neeltje Deliana Insjowi Werimon from Papua serving as the flag bearer. The ceremony highlighted the role of young Indonesians in upholding national values and the spirit of independence.

Study: Living in a Harmonious Family Can Improve Mental Health

A new international study involving over 200,000 people has found that healthy, harmonious relationships with family and friends are linked to better mental and physical health. Researchers recommend that public health planning and prevention strategies take social relationships into account. Experts also highlight family therapy as a useful tool, while cautioning that in cases of abuse or exploitation, distancing oneself may be the healthier choice.

17-metre flag unfurled at Proclamation moment in Tarakan

A 17 by 8 metre Indonesian flag was unfurled at a major intersection in Tarakan, North Kalimantan, to mark the exact moment of the Proclamation of Independence. The annual tradition, started in 2015, drew strong public participation, with residents arriving hours early and joining in singing the national anthem. Organisers said the event aims to keep the spirit of nationalism alive beyond formal ceremonies.

Astra, BNPB and Kemenko PMK distribute 5,000 logistics packages to NTT

PT Astra International has distributed 5,000 basic food packages and communications equipment to earthquake-affected communities in Nusa Tenggara Timur. The aid was coordinated with the Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Cultural Affairs, BNPB, and local disaster agencies. The initiative forms part of Astra's corporate social responsibility programme, Nurani Astra.

Trade Minister Budi Distributes First Phase of Rp 250 Million Aid for NTT Earthquake Victims

Trade Minister Budi Santoso has announced an initial Rp 250 million aid package for victims of the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). The Ministry of Trade is also prioritising the restoration of damaged markets, including Pasar Inpres Ruteng in Manggarai, and coordinating with distributors to ensure staple food supplies remain stable in affected areas.

23 Dead and Thousands Displaced in Extreme Weather Across the Philippines

At least 23 people have died and thousands have been forced to flee their homes after severe flooding and landslides struck the Philippines. The disaster was triggered by an intensified southwest monsoon and the effects of tropical cyclones Luis and Maymay. Authorities are focused on rescue operations and restoring access to isolated communities.

Chaos Mars 81st Indonesian Independence Day Carnival in Purwakarta as Residents Scramble for Food

Residents in Purwakarta, West Java, caused a commotion during the 81st Indonesian Independence Day carnival by scrambling to take food, fruit, and vegetables decorating the parade floats. The incident occurred while the floats were still being judged, with some residents bringing plastic bags and sacks to collect as much as possible. Separately, dozens of students in Subang fainted during the flag ceremony, reportedly due to not having breakfast.

Iran Blames US Military Presence for Oil Pollution in the Gulf

Iran's Foreign Ministry has formally accused the United States of causing environmental damage in the Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman, citing decades of military activity. Tehran is demanding legal and financial accountability, with estimated losses reaching trillions of US dollars. The accusation follows recent oil spills, including one that affected the sensitive mangrove ecosystems of Qeshm Island.

Update on M7 NTT Earthquake: Death Toll Reaches 68, 213 Injured

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has updated the casualty figures from the magnitude 7 earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara, confirming 68 fatalities. The death toll is concentrated in East Manggarai and Ngada regencies, with 213 people reported injured. The earthquake, which occurred on Saturday, also caused significant building damage and forced thousands of residents to evacuate.

Bank BSN Affirms Commitment to Strengthen Sharia Financial Inclusion on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day

PT Bank Syariah Nasional (Bank BSN) has reaffirmed its commitment to business transformation, expanding sharia financial inclusion, and improving service quality as part of its contribution to national development. The announcement was made during the commemoration of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The bank aims to strengthen its position in housing finance while expanding its role across family, community, business, and institutional ecosystems.

Minister ensures disaster funds ready for NTT earthquake

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that emergency funding for the East Nusa Tenggara earthquake will initially be drawn from the National Disaster Mitigation Agency's budget, with around Rp5 trillion still available. He said the government would adjust budget support if needs increase, and that standby funds are on call for every disaster response. The magnitude 7.7 earthquake has so far killed 54 people, injured 199, and displaced nearly 10,000 residents.

HIPMI Yogyakarta City Holds RAKERCAB and FORBISCAB 2026, Opens Investment Access for Young Entrepreneurs

The Yogyakarta City branch of the Indonesian Young Entrepreneurs Association (HIPMI) held its 2026 branch work meeting and business forum, combining internal consolidation with efforts to expand investment access for young entrepreneurs. The event featured a business plan competition and the Jogja Investment Arena, which connected over 50 pitching participants with investors through partnerships with the city's investment office and private networks. Officials emphasised that collaboration between government and business is key to driving regional economic growth.

Offered Rp 471 Billion, Mother-Daughter Farmers Instead Expel AI Giant

Two female farmers in Kentucky, USA, rejected a US$26.48 million offer from a major AI company, believed to be Meta, for their family farmland. The land has been in the family for nearly 200 years, and the women cited religious beliefs and scepticism about AI as reasons for their refusal. The rejection has divided the small town of Maysville, where the company plans to build a massive 2.2 gigawatt data centre.

BEM UI to Stage Protest at Hotel Indonesia Roundabout Tomorrow

The University of Indonesia's Student Executive Board (BEM UI) is set to hold a demonstration at the Hotel Indonesia Roundabout in Central Jakarta on Tuesday, a day after Indonesia's 81st Independence Day anniversary. The protest, themed 'Let's Reclaim Independence', will involve 15 faculty-level BEMs and 25 allied organisations. Demonstrators are expected to voice eight demands, including an end to corruption, genuine agrarian reform, lower staple food and fuel prices, and a halt to military and police repression in civilian spaces.

7,555 inmates in Jakarta receive remission for Indonesia's Independence Day

A total of 7,555 prisoners and juvenile detainees in Jakarta have been granted remission to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The remissions include full releases for 317 inmates under the General Remission II category. Officials described the measure as part of the state's recognition of good conduct and the broader rehabilitation and social reintegration process.

Not Rp 1 Million, Gold Savings Can Now Start from Rp 10 Thousand

Pegadaian and BCA have expanded access to gold savings, allowing customers to start investing with as little as Rp 10,000 through the myBCA app. The partnership aims to attract younger investors and leverage BCA's 15.8 million users to grow Pegadaian's gold ecosystem. Pegadaian currently manages over 153 tonnes of gold, with around 20 tonnes held in gold savings accounts by more than 6.5 million customers.

Commodities on Mineral Exchange Not Yet Finalised

The Indonesian government has not yet decided which commodities will be traded on the planned mineral exchange announced by President Prabowo Subianto. State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi said the scheme is still being prepared, with key domestic commodities such as CPO, nickel and coal under consideration. The exchange aims to strengthen Indonesia's sovereignty over pricing and trading mechanisms for its strategic commodities.

KAI Daop 6 Yogyakarta serves 45,678 passengers on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day

PT Kereta Api Indonesia's Operational Area 6 in Yogyakarta recorded 45,678 passenger movements on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, reflecting strong public demand for rail travel during the national holiday. Yogyakarta Station was the busiest, handling 16,036 departures and 8,740 arrivals. The company deployed additional staff and ensured operational readiness to maintain safe and punctual services.

Food Self-Sufficiency and Rice Exports Become Indonesia's Independence Day Gift

The Ministry of Agriculture has announced that Indonesia achieved food self-sufficiency ahead of schedule, with rice production projected to reach 34.77 million tonnes against a national requirement of 31.10 million tonnes. The country has begun exporting premium rice to Malaysia and is exploring opportunities in Singapore, while farmer welfare has reached its highest level in 34 years. Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman attributed the achievements to cross-sector collaboration under President Prabowo Subianto's leadership.

Astra Records Business Journey Impacting More Than 16 Million People Over Nearly Seven Decades

Astra has launched its 70th anniversary logo and theme, 'Berkarya dan Tumbuh Bersama Indonesia', ahead of the milestone on 20 February 2027. The company reports that its operations over nearly seven decades have impacted more than 16 million people, including 6.9 million workers and their families. The anniversary theme underscores Astra's commitment to continued innovation, collaboration, and contribution to Indonesian society.

64 Foreign Nationals in Bali Receive Remission, Four Released Immediately

Sixty-four foreign nationals serving sentences in Bali have received remission as part of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations, with four among them released immediately. The remissions were part of a broader reduction granted to 3,026 inmates across the island. One Australian inmate was denied remission after being caught with a mobile phone during a visit.

Neeltje Deliana to Carry the Tray at the 81st Indonesian Independence Day Flag-Lowering Ceremony at the Palace

Neeltje Deliana Insjowi Werimon, a student from Papua, has been selected as the tray bearer for the flag-lowering ceremony marking Indonesia's 81st Independence Day at the State Palace. The Paskibraka team, named 'Indonesia Adil Makmur', comprises representatives from various provinces across the country. The ceremony is scheduled to take place on Monday, 17 August 2026.

Australian PM Sends Special Message on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has reaffirmed the importance of Indonesia to Australia in a message marking Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. He highlighted the recently signed Jakarta Treaty and expressed condolences over the earthquake in eastern Indonesia. Albanese stressed that Australia's peace and security depend on a united, stable, and sovereign Indonesia.

7.7 magnitude earthquake in NTT: several Chinese nationals reported injured

A 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck East Nusa Tenggara on Saturday morning, leaving at least 38 people dead and around 2,000 affected. China's Foreign Ministry confirmed that several Chinese nationals were injured, and its consulate in Denpasar has activated an emergency response mechanism. The Indonesian government is managing the evacuation of tourists from the Flores, Alor, Lembata, and Bima priority tourism areas.

23 people die in the Philippines due to extreme weather

At least 23 people have died and thousands have been displaced across the Philippines after heavy rain triggered by an intensifying southwest monsoon and tropical cyclones Luis and Maymay caused widespread flooding and landslides. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council reported that affected areas are concentrated in Luzon and parts of the Visayas, with rescue and relief operations ongoing. Authorities have warned that intermittent rain may continue in the coming days and urged residents in low-lying and landslide-prone areas to remain vigilant.

BAKOM urges public to celebrate independence with empathy

The Government Communication Agency (BAKOM) has called on Indonesians to mark the 81st Independence Day celebrations with empathy and solidarity towards communities affected by recent disasters. Deputy for Communication Strategy and Systems Fahd Pahdepie said the Merdeka Night festivities should balance expressions of gratitude with concern for those facing hardship. The government has also directed ministries and agencies to use the celebrations as a platform to strengthen unity and collect aid for disaster victims.

Banyu Bening Rainwater School Officially Becomes a Learning Hub for Various Groups

The Banyu Bening Rainwater School in Sleman, Yogyakarta, has evolved into a community learning centre for sustainable water management after more than a decade of operation. Local residents like Suwarni have relied on its treated rainwater for daily drinking needs for 14 years, while university students now visit to study ecotheology and rainwater harvesting. The initiative highlights grassroots efforts to promote alternative water sources and environmental education in Indonesia.

Investment Becomes Easier, Capital Market Literacy Remains a Challenge

Indonesia's capital market has seen rapid growth in investor numbers, surpassing 30 million SIDs, driven by digitalisation and simplified account opening. However, regulators warn that financial inclusion has outpaced literacy, with a significant gap between access and understanding of investment products and risks. OJK, KSEI, and IDX are shifting focus towards improving investor knowledge, decision-making quality, and addressing challenges such as regional concentration and the influence of financial influencers.

Mataram City Government Prepares Health Workers to Assist NTT Earthquake Victims

The Mataram city administration is preparing to deploy health workers to assist victims of the 7.7-magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The number of personnel to be sent is still under discussion, with plans also involving students and NTT community representatives residing in Mataram. The death toll from the disaster has reached 54, according to the National Disaster Management Agency.

Papuan Student Alliance Holds Protest at Tugu Jogja

The Papuan Student Alliance (AMP) staged a demonstration in Yogyakarta, marching from Gondomanan intersection to the Tugu Pal Putih monument. The group called for national unity, solidarity against oppression, racism, militarism, capitalism and colonialism, and demanded the right to self-determination for West Papua. Police said the protesters were barred from the Zero Kilometre point due to a public festival taking place there.

NTT Earthquake: DKI Jakarta Council Speaker Urges Solidarity and Humanitarian Aid

The Speaker of the DKI Jakarta Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD), Suhud Alynudin, has expressed condolences over the 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, and called for strengthened solidarity and humanitarian assistance. He urged the Jakarta provincial government to coordinate aid distribution with authorities to ensure it reaches those in need. Suhud emphasised that humanitarian solidarity transcends regional boundaries and requires collaboration among government, humanitarian agencies, businesses, and the wider community.

81st Independence Day: Cilegon Mayor Robinsar Reminds of Heroes' Struggle in Geger Cilegon

Cilegon Mayor Robinsar used the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony to honour the sacrifices of past heroes, particularly those involved in the Geger Cilegon uprising. He urged residents to draw inspiration from their predecessors to pursue tangible development and achieve true independence from poverty and insecurity. Deputy Mayor Fajar Hadi Prabowo also called on citizens to embody love for the nation in their daily lives.

Creative Economy Ministry brings creativity and technology to Malam Merdeka for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day

The Ministry of Creative Economy (Kemenekraf) organised the Malam Merdeka programme for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, combining immersive technology, video mapping, a decorated vehicle carnival, and a drone show. Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya said the events, involving thousands of creative talents, were designed to foster unity and public participation while generating economic impact. The celebrations ran from the National Monument (Monas) to the Hotel Indonesia roundabout.

Trade Minister: Basic Food Supplies from NTB & East Java Support Needs of NTT Earthquake Victims

Trade Minister Budi Santoso has confirmed that inter-regional coordination remains in place to meet the needs of victims of the earthquake in Nusa Tenggara Timur (NTT). The Ministry of Trade is optimising the distribution of staple food stocks from nearby provinces such as Nusa Tenggara Barat (NTB) and East Java to ensure aid arrives more quickly. The minister also highlighted the use of business matching between regions to address supply needs and price gaps for basic commodities.

Empathy for NTT Earthquake Victims: Merdeka Night at Monas-HI Without Fireworks

The Ministry of Creative Economy will proceed with the Merdeka Night celebration for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day in Jakarta, but has postponed the fireworks display out of respect for earthquake victims in NTT and North Sumatra. Solidarity messages such as 'Pray for NTT' will be featured in the video mapping and drone shows. The government expressed deep condolences and confirmed that President Prabowo Subianto has ordered assistance for affected communities.

Metro Jaya Police Chief Sends Aid to NTT, Expresses Condolences for Earthquake Victims

Metro Jaya Police Chief Komjen Asep Edi Suheri dispatched 12 trucks of humanitarian aid for earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara on Monday. The aid, which includes food, blankets, and tarpaulins, was sent via Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base after coordination with the East Nusa Tenggara Police. The initiative coincided with Indonesia's 81st Independence Day and was framed as a demonstration of national solidarity and mutual assistance.

Giant Red and White flag flies over Jakarta skies during Independence Day

Indonesia marked the 81st anniversary of its independence with a series of ceremonies in Jakarta, including a flypast by joint TNI AU and Polri helicopters carrying a giant national flag. President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka attended the official commemoration at Merdeka Palace. The event carried the theme 'Indonesia Berdaulat, Adil, dan Makmur' (Sovereign, Just, and Prosperous Indonesia).

Hundreds of Indonesians Attend Independence Day Ceremony at Indonesian Embassy in Bangkok

More than 500 Indonesian citizens gathered at the Indonesian Embassy in Bangkok to commemorate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The ceremony featured a flag-raising by students from the Indonesian School of Bangkok and a marching band from the Royal Thai Armed Forces. Ambassador Hari Prabowo emphasised the importance of maintaining national spirit and contributing to Indonesia from abroad.

Three favourite photo spots for citizens during 81st Indonesian Independence Day celebrations

The 81st anniversary of Indonesia's independence at the Presidential Palace complex featured three particularly popular photo spots: vintage presidential cars, a living-plant map of Indonesia, and displays of real fruit and vegetables. Visitors queued under the sun to capture moments with the historic vehicles once used by former presidents. The fruit and vegetable decorations were reportedly available to take home after the flag-lowering ceremony.

DPR Reviews NTT Earthquake Impact, Ensures Rapid Victim Handling

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has conducted a direct inspection of areas affected by the 7.7 magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara to ensure swift and coordinated disaster response. Deputy Speaker Sari Yuliati emphasised the need for optimal coordination between central and regional governments, BNPB, and the Ministry of Social Affairs to meet the needs of affected communities. The DPR pledged to continue overseeing post-disaster handling and rehabilitation until residents can safely resume their activities.

Koster Encourages Inmates to Start MSMEs After Release from Prison

Bali Governor Wayan Koster has urged inmates receiving remission for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day to use skills acquired in prison to start micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) upon release. A total of 3,026 inmates in Bali received sentence reductions, with 34 immediately released from Kerobokan Prison. The provincial government is also preparing cooperatives to support former inmates' economic activities.

Merdeka Night to Feature Video Mapping and Drone Show from Monas to HI Roundabout

The Ministry of Creative Economy is staging a series of Merdeka Night events in Jakarta to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, featuring video mapping, immersive installations, a decorated vehicle carnival, and a drone show. The festivities are designed to celebrate independence while generating economic benefits for the public, with around 600 MSME stalls and thousands of creative workers involved. The government expects the events to boost the creative economy and provide opportunities for small businesses.

Puan urges modest Independence Day celebrations after NTT quake

House Speaker Puan Maharani has called for subdued Independence Day commemorations as Indonesia mourns the victims of the magnitude 7.7 earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. She wore a black woven shawl from NTT during the ceremony as a symbol of mourning, while the government reiterated its commitment to accelerating emergency response and recovery efforts in the affected region.

KKP boosts Konawe coastal economy through Merah Putih Fishermen's Village

The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries is accelerating economic development in coastal communities of Konawe Regency, Southeast Sulawesi, through the Merah Putih Fishermen's Village programme. Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono inspected the completed facility in Sorue Jaya Village, one of 100 first-phase sites, with a target of 1,269 locations by year-end. The initiative aims to provide complete fisheries production infrastructure to help local fishermen increase productivity and 'move up a class'.

254 prisoners in Central Java released immediately after receiving remission

A total of 254 prisoners across Central Java have been released immediately after receiving remission as part of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations. In total, 9,516 prisoners received sentence reductions, with 9,262 receiving General Remission I and 254 receiving General Remission II, which results in immediate release. The remissions are part of the correctional system's rehabilitation efforts to encourage positive behavioural change among inmates.