Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 17 August 2026

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Descendant of WR Soepratman Sings 'Indonesia Pusaka' at the Palace

Antea Putri Turk, a great-great-granddaughter of Indonesia Raya composer Wage Rudolf Soepratman, performed at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta during the 81st Independence Day celebrations. She entertained guests at the people's banquet with several songs, including 'Indonesia Pusaka'. The event also featured a variety of traditional Indonesian dishes for invited guests.

Emotional Moment as Titiek Soeharto Holds Back Tears After 'Tanah Airku' Sung at Indonesia's 81st Independence Day

Titiek Soeharto was visibly moved to tears after singer Shanna Shannon performed the patriotic song 'Tanah Airku' during the 81st Independence Day ceremony at the State Palace. Seated beside her son Didit Prabowo, she wiped her eyes with a handkerchief as the song concluded. The moment drew attention amid the solemn national commemoration.

Trump Cuts US-South Korea Military Drills for North Korea

President Donald Trump has ordered the Pentagon to significantly reduce joint military exercises with South Korea, citing cost and a desire to avoid sending hostile signals to North Korea. The announcement came just before the scheduled Ulchi Freedom Shield drills and followed South Korea's refusal to join US denuclearisation efforts against Iran. Trump also highlighted his good relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Lebak Bulus Terminal plans to make bus-pulling contest an annual event

The management of Lebak Bulus Terminal in South Jakarta intends to hold a bus-pulling and pushing contest annually to enliven Indonesia's Independence Day celebrations. The inaugural event drew around 30 participants from terminal users, bus crews, traders and prospective passengers. Organisers hope the activity will boost public trust in the terminal as an active transport hub.

81st Indonesian Independence Day: Maiden Flypast of Rafale and A400M over Merdeka Palace

Indonesia marked its 81st Independence Day with the first public flypast of its newly acquired Dassault Rafale fighter jets and Airbus A400M Atlas transport aircraft over Merdeka Palace. The display, witnessed by President Prabowo Subianto and other dignitaries, showcased high-G manoeuvres and formation flying intended to demonstrate the modernisation of the nation's air defence capabilities. The event underscored the government's ongoing investment in advanced military hardware.

Uber and Pony AI plan to bring robotaxi service to Europe

Uber Technologies and Pony AI have announced plans to launch driverless taxi services in five European cities, starting with Zagreb, Croatia. The partnership aims to operate more than 2,000 autonomous vehicles, with Pony AI providing Level 4 self-driving technology and Uber managing bookings, payments, and fleet operations. The remaining four cities will be announced gradually once local operational permits are secured.

Indonesia strengthens NTT quake response on Independence Day

Indonesian authorities have intensified emergency relief efforts in East Nusa Tenggara following a deadly earthquake that killed at least 54 people. Coordinating Minister Pratikno confirmed that senior officials have been on the ground since day one, with ministries, agencies, and the House of Representatives coordinating closely to speed up recovery. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency has consolidated 50,000 aid packages from President Prabowo Subianto and deployed aircraft, helicopters, trucks, and ferries to overcome difficult terrain and distribute assistance across six affected districts.

On Independence Day, National Police Deploy 44 Trucks of Aid for NTT Earthquake Victims

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) mobilised 44 trucks and one box van carrying essential supplies to assist victims of the Flores earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The aid, dispatched from multiple regional police commands on Independence Day, includes food, water, medical supplies, and supporting equipment such as field kitchens and water treatment units. The operation forms part of an ongoing humanitarian response to the disaster.

4,833 inmates in Aceh receive remission, 25 released immediately

A total of 4,833 prisoners and juvenile detainees in Aceh have been granted sentence reductions to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, with 25 of them released immediately. The remissions were awarded to inmates who demonstrated good behaviour and participated in rehabilitation programmes. Narcotics offenders made up the largest group of recipients, accounting for 65 per cent of the 7,300 inmates across the province.

81st Indonesian Independence Day: US Strengthens Strategic Partnership and Expresses Sympathy for NTT Earthquake

The United States has congratulated Indonesia on its 81st Independence Day, emphasising the enduring strategic partnership between the two nations. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted cooperation in defence, trade, energy, and technology, while also expressing condolences for the earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara.

Pramono affirms Jakarta's economic resilience remains positive

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has highlighted the capital's strong economic performance, with growth reaching 5.52 percent in the second quarter of 2026 and inflation held at 2.5 percent. He outlined a range of infrastructure, education, and public service initiatives aimed at ensuring equitable development and positioning Jakarta among the world's top 50 global cities by 2030.

Metro Jaya Police Chief Dispatches 12 Trucks of Humanitarian Aid for NTT Earthquake Victims

The Metro Jaya Regional Police have dispatched 12 trucks of humanitarian aid for communities affected by the earthquake in Nusa Tenggara Timur. The aid, which includes food, blankets, and tarpaulins, was released by Police Chief Commissioner General Asep Edi Suheri after the 81st Independence Day ceremony. The logistics will be flown from Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base to the affected areas, with distribution coordinated with the NTT Regional Police.

Indonesia Expands Market Access, 25 Trade Agreements Now in Force

Indonesia currently has 25 trade agreements in force and 13 more under negotiation, according to Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto. The government is using these agreements to open market access for Indonesian products while strengthening the country's position in global trade. The trade push is being paired with domestic downstreaming projects and energy independence initiatives.

Central Java Police Send 10 Trucks of Humanitarian Aid to NTT Earthquake Victims

The Central Java Regional Police have dispatched ten trucks carrying food and essential supplies to communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The aid includes 11,000 blankets, 15,000 new garments, and 1.2 tonnes of dried meat floss, alongside medical personnel to support trauma recovery. The initiative reflects institutional solidarity with disaster-affected residents during a difficult period.

Saudi King and Crown Prince MBS Offer Condolences over NTT Earthquake

Saudi Arabia's King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman have expressed their condolences to President Prabowo Subianto following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara. The messages conveyed sympathy for the victims and prayers for the injured. The disaster has caused significant damage across several districts on Flores Island.

Cooking Oil, Eggs and Chicken Prices Surge on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, Check the List

Bank Indonesia's Strategic Food Price Information Centre reported mixed movements in staple food prices on the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence. While rice, shallots and most chilli varieties declined, notable increases were recorded for fresh chicken meat, eggs and cooking oil. The data highlights ongoing volatility in key household food commodities.

Traumatised by NTT Earthquake, 50 Families in Selayar Remain in Evacuation Sites

Around 50 families in Selayar Islands Regency, South Sulawesi, are still sheltering in hilly evacuation areas following the magnitude 7 earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. Their reluctance to return home stems from trauma linked to the devastating magnitude 7.4 quake in December 2021, which caused severe damage in the same districts. Local disaster authorities are facing logistical challenges due to the remote location, with a 12-hour sea journey required to deliver aid.

Jokowi Attends 81st Indonesian Independence Day Ceremony in Traditional Balinese Attire

Former President Joko Widodo attended the 81st anniversary of Indonesia's independence at the State Palace wearing traditional Balinese dress known as payas madya. His outfit included a purple udeng headdress, black safari shirt, and a songket kampuh. The article also explains the three main types of Balinese traditional clothing and their ceremonial functions.

Three Areas in NTT Isolated by Earthquake Now Accessible

Police in East Nusa Tenggara have reopened access to three areas on Flores Island that were cut off by earthquake-triggered landslides. Personnel have since delivered aid and evacuated residents, including a pregnant woman suffering from bleeding after a premature birth. The operation highlights the importance of rapid response to community reports in disaster-affected regions.

Celebrating 81st Independence Day at the Palace, Prabowo Sits Flanked by Gibran and Jokowi

President Prabowo Subianto marked Indonesia's 81st Independence Day at Merdeka Palace, seated between Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka and former President Joko Widodo. The three leaders appeared relaxed and engaged in conversation while watching the post-ceremony entertainment. The event featured an aerial display of 81 helicopters and cultural performances under the theme 'Indonesia Berdaulat, Adil, dan Makmur'.

iQOO X showcased as flagship concept phone with 15,000 mAh battery

iQOO has unveiled a concept smartphone, the iQOO X, featuring a 15,000 mAh solid-state battery and a top-tier Snapdragon chipset. The device is presented as a demonstration of the company's confidence in developing high-end mobile technology. Although still in development, iQOO has published indicative pricing for several memory configurations.

Nagekeo Still Isolated After Earthquake, Electricity and Communications Disrupted

Nagekeo Regency in East Nusa Tenggara remains cut off following an earthquake, hampering aid distribution and coordination. Police report that unstable electricity and communication networks have made it difficult to assess conditions in affected areas, with aftershocks continuing. Residents in Tenda Kinde village are still sheltering independently and have received no outside assistance.

Megawati Prays for NTT Earthquake Victims at 81st Republic of Indonesia Anniversary Ceremony

PDIP chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri led the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony at the party school in South Jakarta, using the moment of silence to pray for victims of the 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. The disaster has killed at least 53 people and injured 137, with thousands displaced. Megawati expressed deep condolences and called for strength for the affected families.

Megawati: Historical Justice Cannot Stop at Revocation of MPRS Decree 33/1967

Megawati Soekarnoputri has called for a deeper reckoning with Indonesia's past, arguing that revoking the 1967 decree that stripped Soekarno of power is only a first step. Speaking at an independence day ceremony, she detailed Soekarno's years of imprisonment and house arrest and urged the nation to confront its history honestly. She framed the issue as one of national conscience and historical education rather than revenge.

Dr. Sardjito General Hospital Sends Multidisciplinary Medical Team to Handle NTT Earthquake Victims

RSUP Dr. Sardjito in Yogyakarta has deployed a multidisciplinary medical team to assist victims of the earthquake in Nusa Tenggara Timur. The team, comprising specialist doctors and health workers, will focus on strengthening local healthcare capacity at Bajawa Regional Hospital in Ngada Regency. The hospital's director emphasised the deployment as part of its national referral role and commitment to supporting the government's disaster response efforts.

On Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, Megawati Highlights Global Geopolitics and the Importance of National Resilience

PDI Perjuangan chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri used Indonesia's 81st Independence Day ceremony to urge citizens to understand global geopolitical dynamics as a means of safeguarding national sovereignty. She cited Iran's resilience against superpower pressure as an example of unity and discipline, while also pointing to European and East Asian nations as models for prioritising education, health, and technological sovereignty. Megawati stressed that national unity and self-reliance are essential for Indonesia to remain sovereign and enduring.

UNM Warmly Welcomes LLDIKTI Region III Jakarta, Supports Independence Celebrations Through Volleyball Tournament

Universitas Nusa Mandiri (UNM) hosted a volleyball tournament organised by LLDIKTI Region III Jakarta as part of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations. The event, held at UNM's Sport Center, aimed to strengthen ties between the higher education service institution and universities under its supervision. UNM's rector expressed hope that such activities would foster camaraderie and reinforce collaboration within the higher education sector.

Profile of Celina Olivia Apriani, bearer of the Heritage Flag tray

Celina Olivia Apriani Theo, a student from West Kalimantan, was entrusted with carrying the tray during the national flag-hoisting ceremony at Merdeka Palace for Indonesia's Independence Day commemoration. Her selection highlights the rigorous character and discipline required for the role. Celina has also achieved recognition in national student arts competitions.

Aceh Tamiang Regency Government: Bumi Muda Sedia Recovers and Rises

Aceh Tamiang is rebuilding after devastating flash floods in late November 2025 destroyed thousands of homes and public infrastructure. The regency government, led by Bupati Armia Fahmi, is prioritising recovery through central government support, including additional regional transfer funds and agricultural rehabilitation programmes. The administration is focusing on transparent aid distribution, infrastructure repair, and economic revival for affected communities.

Indonesian Embassy in Beijing holds 81st Independence Day ceremony, prays for NTT earthquake victims

The Indonesian Embassy in Beijing held a ceremony to mark the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence, attended by around 200 Indonesian citizens. The event included prayers for victims of the 7.7 magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The ceremony also featured the launch of a book on Indonesia-China relations and a celebration of Indonesian culture and cuisine.

NTB Sends 55 Health Workers and 34 Tonnes of Rice to Aid NTT Earthquake Victims

The West Nusa Tenggara provincial government has dispatched 55 health workers and 34 tonnes of rice to assist communities affected by the earthquake in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. The humanitarian team, deployed within 24 hours of the disaster, will focus on treating injuries, fractures, and providing trauma healing. Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal framed the rapid response as a demonstration of regional solidarity and a test of NTB's disaster preparedness.

Independence Day Ceremony Held Amid Forest and Land Fires in Ogan Ilir

Manggala Agni firefighting personnel from three Sumatra operations areas held an Independence Day ceremony at a forest and land fire site in Ogan Ilir, South Sumatra. The ceremony took place before they resumed patrol and firefighting duties. The event symbolised their dedication to protecting the environment even on the national holiday.

Tropical Cyclones Luis and Maymay Batter the Philippines, 5 Million Residents Affected

Tropical cyclones Luis and Maymay, combined with the southwest monsoon, have affected over five million people across ten regions of the Philippines, with confirmed fatalities reaching 23. The government has activated hundreds of evacuation centres and distributed aid worth 734.1 million pesos, while Malacañang has issued a memorandum adjusting working hours in twelve provinces to mitigate safety risks.

South Jakarta supports 5.52 percent economic growth as capital's foundation towards becoming a global city

South Jakarta Mayor Syafrin Liputo has welcomed Jakarta's 5.52 percent economic growth in the second quarter of 2026, describing it as a key foundation for the capital's transformation into a global city. The growth contributed 16.32 percent to the national economy, with inflation held at 2.50 percent. Syafrin emphasised that economic resilience is essential for equitable development and for Jakarta's ambition to rank among the world's top 20 global cities by 2045.

Army Chief of Staff Affirms Support for Police to Secure Aceh After Crescent Star Flag Raising

Army Chief of Staff General Maruli Simanjuntak has expressed the Indonesian Army's support for the National Police in enforcing the law in Aceh following the raising of the crescent star flag. He stated that no special troop deployment is needed and that all parties are legally accountable. Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago separately urged all elements of society to preserve Aceh's peace and respect national symbols.

Bogor Police Destroy Millions of Prescription Pills and Thousands of Alcohol Bottles on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day

Bogor Resort Police destroyed a large quantity of seized narcotics and alcoholic beverages following the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony. The evidence, collected from 77 cases and 97 suspects between June and August 2026, included 1.5 million restricted prescription pills, 3 kg of methamphetamine, and 15,688 bottles of alcohol. The public destruction was intended to demonstrate transparency and the commitment of police, local government, and the military to protect youth from drugs and alcohol.

NTT Governor Melki Leads Prayers for Flores Earthquake Victims at 81st Independence Day Ceremony

East Nusa Tenggara Governor Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena led the province's 81st Independence Day ceremony with a solemn tone, dedicating the occasion to victims of the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Flores two days earlier. The provincial government simplified the event and cancelled festivities as a gesture of solidarity while thousands of aftershocks continued to force residents into shelters.

Hyundai begins Ioniq 3 production in Turkey

Hyundai has started producing the Ioniq 3 electric car at its Izmit plant in Turkey, making it the first electric passenger car from a foreign automaker to be manufactured in the country. The company invested £213 million (approximately Rp5.1 trillion) to prepare the facility, which has been operating since 1997. Initial production is targeted at around 30,000 units per year.

Egyptian President, Trump's son-in-law discuss Middle East and Gaza agreement

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi met with Jared Kushner, son-in-law of US President Donald Trump, in El Alamein to discuss Middle East developments, particularly the Palestinian issue. Both sides stressed the need for all parties to fulfil their obligations under the October 2025 Sharm El-Sheikh agreement to halt the war in Gaza. Kushner highlighted close Egypt-US coordination and described Egypt as a key US partner in the region.

Indonesia's 81st Independence Day: Population Reaches 287 Million, Gen Alpha Dominates

Indonesia's population has reached 287.2 million as the nation marks its 81st independence anniversary, with children aged 0-4 forming the largest age cohort at nearly 8% of the total. The demographic structure is dominated by Generation Alpha, though babies born in 2025 mark the first wave of Generation Beta. The large early-childhood population signals rising future demand for education, healthcare, and job creation as this group enters schooling and the workforce.

167 corruption convicts at Sukamiskin prison receive Independence Day remissions

Sukamiskin Penitentiary in Bandung granted remissions to 167 corruption convicts and 122 general offenders in conjunction with Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The sentence reductions ranged from one to six months, with one inmate released immediately. The move is expected to save over Rp590 million in prisoner meal costs.

On Independence Day, Labour Association Urges Government on Three Key Points

The All-Indonesia Workers' Association (Aspirasi) has called on the government to take concrete action on three fronts as Indonesia marks its 81st Independence Day. The union is pressing for the passage of the Asset Forfeiture Bill, the creation of quality jobs, and an end to mass layoffs. Aspirasi argues that eradicating corruption is essential to restoring investor confidence and protecting workers' welfare.

Free education programme in Central Papua reaches 64,000 students

The Central Papua provincial government's free education programme has reached more than 64,000 pupils and university students this year. Governor Meki Nawipa said the scheme aims to remove financial barriers to education and reduce dropout rates, with funding also covering boarding schools and Central Papuan students studying abroad. The government has allocated around Rp30 billion annually for overseas students and is supporting teacher certification to improve education quality.

Four Rafales Escort Two Airbus A400Ms Monitored by Anka-S in Display Above the Palace

The Indonesian Air Force showcased its newest aircraft during the 81st Independence Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace, with four Dassault Rafale fighters performing high-G manoeuvres while escorting two Airbus A400M transport aircraft. The display, monitored by a Turkish-made Anka-S drone, highlighted military modernisation initiated under President Prabowo Subianto's tenure as defence minister.

KPK Opens Complaint Channel for Alleged Misuse of Disaster Relief Funds

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is intensifying oversight of disaster aid distribution through coordination with affected regional governments. The anti-graft body is also inviting public reports on suspected aid misuse, with each complaint to be reviewed before further legal action. The move aims to ensure aid reaches intended recipients and to close corruption loopholes during emergencies.

81 Years of Indonesian Independence, Danantara and BRI Reach Remote Corners of the Nation

As Indonesia marks its 81st Independence Day, state-owned Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI), part of the Danantara ecosystem, has reaffirmed its role as a strategic partner in national development. The bank is expanding inclusive financial access to remote areas through a combination of physical networks, digital platforms, and adaptive services such as floating bank vessels. These efforts aim to ensure that geographical limitations do not hinder communities from accessing financial services.

NTT Marks 81st Independence Day with Modest Ceremony in Solidarity with Flores Earthquake Victims

The East Nusa Tenggara provincial government held a deliberately modest ceremony for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day in Kupang, cancelling all celebratory events as a gesture of empathy for communities affected by the Flores earthquake. Governor Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena confirmed that only the flag-raising and lowering ceremonies would take place, with no formal speeches or state receptions. He also urged regional heads across Flores to hold flag ceremonies, however simple, while adapting to local conditions in disaster-affected areas.

Eight Climbers Celebrating Independence Day on Mount Bawakaraeng Suffer Asthma and Hypothermia

Eight climbers on Mount Bawakaraeng in Gowa Regency, South Sulawesi, were evacuated by a joint SAR team after suffering hypothermia, asthma, muscle cramps and typhoid symptoms while attempting to celebrate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. All were rescued safely and received medical treatment, with some referred to Tinggimoncong Community Health Centre. Basarnas Makassar had deployed personnel across eight monitoring points as part of a special preparedness operation for the holiday period.

Independence Day: Jabodetabek KRL fare only Rp8

KAI Commuter is offering a special flat fare of Rp8 for all Jabodetabek Commuter Line journeys on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, 17 August 2026. The operator has added extra services and staff to manage expected crowding at stations near celebration venues. A limited-edition multi-trip card has also been issued to mark the occasion.

North Jakarta mayor calls on residents to build the city through gotong royong

North Jakarta Mayor Hendra Hidayat has urged residents to mark Indonesia's independence with tangible work and a spirit of mutual cooperation. He stressed that building Jakarta is a shared responsibility, not solely the government's task. The mayor also highlighted Jakarta's economic growth of 5.52 percent and its role as a national economic centre and global city.