Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 17 August 2026

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Unique flag ceremonies across regions mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day

Communities across Indonesia marked the 81st anniversary of independence with distinctive flag-raising ceremonies reflecting local culture and social resilience. Events ranged from wayang-costumed honour guards in Salatiga to bilingual ceremonies in Banyuwangi and ceremonies held by disaster survivors in Padang. The celebrations highlighted efforts to foster nationalism and unity amid the country's diversity.

NTT Earthquake Update: Death Toll Rises to 54, Recovery Accelerated

The death toll from the earthquake in Nusa Tenggara Timur has risen to 54, according to the latest data from the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). The government is accelerating recovery efforts, prioritising damage assessment and the distribution of aid through two main command posts in Labuan Bajo and Maumere. Several ministers attended the Independence Day ceremony in the affected area to demonstrate the central government's commitment to supporting the victims.

Four Guests with Best Traditional Attire at Independence Day Celebration Receive Electric Motorcycles

Four guests attending the 81st Independence Day celebration at the State Palace were awarded electric motorcycles for wearing the best traditional attire. The prizes align with the government's push for electric vehicle adoption towards efficient, modern and sustainable mobility. The event also featured an online registration scheme that drew over 300,000 applicants, prompting the Palace to increase invitations from 5,500 to 8,900.

81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony at KBRI KL held solemnly

The Indonesian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur held a solemn ceremony to mark the 81st anniversary of Indonesia's independence, attended by hundreds of Indonesian diaspora members. Ambassador Raden Dato' Mohammad Iman Hascarya Kusumo led the event and urged citizens to honour the sacrifices of independence heroes. The ceremony also included the awarding of Satyalancana Karya Satya medals to two embassy staff for 20 years of continuous civil service.

Gov't sends 52 tons of aid to quake-hit areas of E Nusa Tenggara

The Indonesian government has dispatched 52 tons of humanitarian aid to areas of East Nusa Tenggara affected by a magnitude 7.7 earthquake, including food, water, medicines, tents and sanitation equipment. Several ministers and senior officials have been deployed to the region to oversee the emergency response and ensure assistance reaches displaced residents. The aid effort is being coordinated across multiple districts, with officials also marking Independence Day alongside affected communities.

Solemn 81st Independence Day Ceremony at 1,700 Metres Above Sea Level in Savana Propok

Dozens of hikers marked Indonesia's 81st Independence Day with a flag ceremony at Savana Propok on the slopes of Mount Rinjani, at an altitude of 1,700 metres. The event, organised by the Mount Rinjani National Park tourism managers, aims to foster nationalism among young people. Following the ceremony, participants took part in a clean-up action, with prizes awarded for collecting the most rubbish.

Coordinating Minister Yusril: Government to Address Various Issues Facing Acehnese Society

Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra has called for calm in Aceh following unrest during the 21st anniversary of the Aceh Peace Day. He urged all elements of society to maintain peace and work together to resolve outstanding issues in the region. The unrest occurred when a group attempted to raise a crescent-and-star flag at the Baiturrahman Grand Mosque complex, which was prevented by military personnel.

Gold Price Today 17 August 2026: Antam and Global Products Shine on Independence Day

The price of gold produced by PT Aneka Tambang Tbk (Antam) rose by Rp2,000 to Rp2,677,000 per gram on 17 August 2026, with buyback set at Rp2,530,000 per gram. Global spot gold also edged up 0.3 percent to US$4,388.62 per ounce, supported by a weaker US dollar and economic data that dampened expectations of a US interest rate hike. The increase in both domestic and international gold prices coincided with Indonesia's Independence Day.

Independence Day: Terrorism convicts at Cipinang Prison become flag-raising troops

Three terrorism convicts at Cipinang Class I Prison in East Jakarta were selected as flag-raising troops for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day ceremony. Prison officials said the move reflects a broader deradicalisation process in which loyalty to the state must be demonstrated through discipline, responsibility and positive daily actions rather than formal declarations alone.

81st Indonesian Independence Day: 173,000 Prisoners Granted Remission

Indonesia has granted remission to 173,706 prisoners to mark the 81st anniversary of independence, with 3,563 of them being released immediately. The government says the move reflects respect for human rights and recognition of rehabilitation progress, while also saving an estimated Rp358.9 billion in meal costs.

Saudi King and Crown Prince offer condolences for NTT earthquake victims

Saudi Arabia's King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman have sent messages of condolence to President Prabowo Subianto following the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara. The Saudi leaders offered prayers for the deceased, the injured, and the bereaved families. Around 2,000 people have been reported affected across several regencies, with the number of displaced still being assessed.

NTT Earthquake Death Toll Reaches 54, Government Accelerates Aid by Air and Sea

The Indonesian government is intensifying emergency response efforts following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, with the death toll now at 54. Coordinating Minister Pratikno and BNPB head Suharyanto are overseeing integrated logistics distribution through air, land, and sea routes to reach isolated areas. Aid includes 50,000 packages from the President, distributed via main posts in Labuan Bajo and Maumere.

Bali Police Send 5 Container Trucks of Aid for NTT Earthquake Victims

The Bali Regional Police have dispatched five container trucks carrying essential supplies to assist victims of the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Nagaekeo, East Nusa Tenggara. The aid includes staple foods, shelter materials, and hygiene products, alongside personnel such as psychologists and Brimob units to support search efforts. Police have also prepared mobile kitchen and water purification vehicles, ready for deployment as the situation develops.

Crowds Enthusiastically Watch Fighter Jet Display in Front of Palace During Independence Day

Residents gathered in front of Merdeka Palace in Central Jakarta to celebrate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The crowd cheered enthusiastically as fighter jets performed an aerial display over the palace. Many onlookers recorded the spectacle on their mobile phones.

Solemn TNI-Riau Police Moment at Sacred Reflection Night Ahead of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day

The Riau Regional Police and regional leadership forum held a solemn honour ceremony and sacred reflection at the Kusuma Dharma Heroes' Cemetery in Pekanbaru on the eve of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. Senior military, police and civilian officials attended the midnight ceremony to pay respects to fallen heroes. The event proceeded in an orderly and secure atmosphere.

Minister Mukhtarudin: Migrant Workers Are Part of the Nation's Strength

Minister for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers Mukhtarudin used the 81st Independence Day commemoration to reaffirm the government's commitment to protecting and empowering Indonesian migrant workers abroad. He described migrant workers as 'economic fighters' for the nation and stressed that the independence theme of a sovereign, just, and prosperous Indonesia must extend to all citizens working overseas. The ministry is focusing on improving placement governance, strengthening legal protection, and boosting economic empowerment for migrant workers and their families.

The Legend of the Stepchild's Lament

A personal reflection on Indonesia's 1970s-90s melodrama films, particularly 'Ratapan Anak Tiri', explores how these stories of family breakdown and suffering mirrored the social dislocations of rapid modernisation. The author argues that the genre's popularity reveals a collective anxiety about the human costs of economic progress, challenging the notion that development statistics alone capture a nation's wellbeing.

DPR member: Independence must be increasingly felt in the legal system

House of Representatives Commission III member Bimantoro Wiyono has called for the spirit of Indonesia's 81st independence anniversary to be reflected in a more humanistic and just legal system. He emphasised that the new Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code should shift the paradigm towards proportional punishment, restorative justice, and stronger protection of citizens' rights. Bimantoro also urged law enforcement officials to embrace transparency, including the recording of examinations, as a safeguard against abuse of power.

Government weighs Prabowo visit to monitor NTT quake response

President Prabowo Subianto is considering a visit to East Nusa Tenggara to oversee the government's response to a magnitude 7.7 earthquake that has killed at least 47 people. Several senior ministers and agency chiefs are already on the ground coordinating emergency relief, including the distribution of 50,000 staple food packages. The president has ordered state-owned enterprises to support the response and pledged continued efforts to restore conditions in the affected districts.

Bank Indonesia Launches Indonesian Credit Card, Here Are the Rules

Bank Indonesia has officially launched the Indonesian Credit Card (KKI) for the retail segment, with implementation beginning on 17 August 2026. The KKI is a domestically processed deferred payment instrument that can be used as a funding source for QRIS transactions, initially available in digital form. Seven banks and one Islamic bank have been approved as first movers to issue the card.

Tips for maintaining immunity to prevent acute respiratory infections during the dry season

A pulmonary specialist has advised the public to boost their immune systems and take protective measures against rising air pollution during the dry season. Dr. Feni Fitriani Taufik highlighted that dust and pollutants can irritate the respiratory tract, increasing the risk of acute respiratory infections (ISPA), particularly among vulnerable groups. She recommended a balanced diet, adequate rest, and the use of protective gear when outdoors.

Moment Prabowo Flanked by Jokowi and Gibran Chatting During Independence Day Ceremony at the Palace

President Prabowo Subianto was seen seated between Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka and former President Joko Widodo during the 81st Independence Day ceremony at the State Palace. The three leaders conversed and laughed together while watching a fighter jet demonstration. The moment highlighted a rare public display of camaraderie among Indonesia's current and former top officials.

On 81st Independence Day, Religious Affairs Minister Calls for Solidarity with NTT and Central Sulawesi Earthquake Victims

Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar used the 81st Independence Day commemoration to urge religious communities to strengthen unity, empathy, and solidarity in support of earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara, North Sumatra, and Central Sulawesi. He called for optimising religious philanthropy as a social and economic force while highlighting rising interfaith harmony indices. The minister also reminded Indonesians that independence was won through struggle and that religious figures played a frontline role in the nation's fight for freedom.

Gold Prices at Pegadaian on 17 August 2026: Antam, UBS, and Galeri24 All Rise

Gold bullion prices at state-owned pawnbroker PT Pegadaian rose across all three main products on Monday, 17 August 2026. Galeri24, Antam, and UBS all recorded increases compared to their positions on Saturday, 15 August. The company offers various quantities ranging from 0.5 grams to 1 kilogram, and advises customers to monitor prices regularly as they remain dynamic.

679 inmates at Salemba Detention Centre receive remission for Independence Day

A total of 679 prisoners at the Salemba Class I Detention Centre in Central Jakarta have been granted general remission to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The head of the facility said the remission serves as an incentive for inmates to maintain good behaviour and participate in rehabilitation programmes. Of the recipients, 35 were convicted in corruption cases, 185 in narcotics cases, and 10 in money laundering cases.

Dr Sardjito Hospital deploys medical personnel to assist earthquake victims in NTT

RSUP Dr Sardjito in Yogyakarta has dispatched seven medical professionals to Nusa Tenggara Timur to support earthquake victims, following a directive from the Ministry of Health. The team will serve at Bajawa Regional Hospital in Ngada Regency, providing multidisciplinary medical support and strengthening local healthcare capacity. The deployment reflects the hospital's commitment to rapid response and inter-hospital collaboration during emergencies.

Profile of Infantry Colonel Priyo Handoyo, Semarang Military District Commander Who Led Independence Day Ceremony at the Palace

Infantry Colonel Priyo Handoyo, Commander of Military District 0733/Semarang, was entrusted to lead the ceremonial troops at the 81st Indonesian Independence Day commemoration at Merdeka Palace. The appointment marks a significant milestone in the career of the 2003 Military Academy graduate. The ceremony was attended by President Prabowo Subianto and state guests.

Bank Indonesia expands 0 percent QRIS MDR policy for MSMEs

Bank Indonesia is expanding its 0 percent Merchant Discount Rate policy for QRIS transactions to cover more micro, small, and medium enterprises from 1 October 2026. The central bank says the move will reduce transaction costs for merchants, boost digital economy inclusion, and support purchasing power. The policy forms part of the Payment System Blueprint 2030 and aims to strengthen national economic competitiveness.

Prabowo proud 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony ran solemnly

President Prabowo Subianto expressed pride after the 81st anniversary ceremony of Indonesia's independence at Merdeka Palace proceeded in an orderly and solemn manner. Acting as inspector of ceremonies, Prabowo thanked the parade commander and all unit commanders. The event was also attended by Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka and former presidents and vice presidents.

Spectacular! TNI-Polri Fighter Jets and Helicopters Flypast in the Skies Above the State Palace

Fighter jets and helicopters from the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and National Police (Polri) performed a flypast over the State Palace in Jakarta to mark the 81st anniversary of Indonesia's independence. President Prabowo Subianto, Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, and former President Joko Widodo were among those watching the aerial display. The formations carried the Red and White flag and the '81' logo, symbolising national unity and the spirit of independence.

Traditional Costumes Enliven Independence Carnival for Indonesia's 81st Anniversary

Hundreds of children and parents took part in a traditional costume carnival in Bogor, West Java, to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The event aimed to foster nationalism and love for the homeland. Participants wore diverse regional attire and creative recycled-material costumes, drawing enthusiastic crowds along the parade route.

Gov't prepares 50 emergency classrooms for quake-hit E Nusa Tenggara

Indonesia's Primary and Secondary Education Ministry is dispatching 50 emergency classroom tents to earthquake-affected districts in East Nusa Tenggara, with shipments scheduled to arrive in late August. The aid includes family and school kits, while schools have been instructed to relocate classes or suspend activities depending on local conditions. Psychosocial support services are also being prepared in collaboration with the Indonesian Psychological Association to aid recovery.

Vice President Gibran wears Rote traditional attire from NTT at Independence Day ceremony

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming attended the Proclamation Seconds Commemoration ceremony at Merdeka Palace wearing traditional Rote attire from East Nusa Tenggara. His wife, Selvi Gibran Rakabuming, wore Ta'a Dayak Kenyah traditional dress from East and North Kalimantan. The choice of attire reflects the spirit of diversity in realising the theme of the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence.

Red and White Flag Raised, Citizens in Front of Palace Stand at Attention in Unison

Citizens gathered in front of the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta stood at attention and saluted in unison as the national flag was raised during the 81st Independence Day ceremony. Large screens were installed to allow the public to follow the proceedings. The crowd also sang the national anthem 'Indonesia Raya' and applauded as the flag was unfurled.

Ayu and Budi Wear Matching Outfits to Watch Indonesia's 81st Independence Day Celebration in Front of the Palace

A couple from Bogor travelled to Central Jakarta to join crowds celebrating Indonesia's 81st Independence Day in front of Merdeka Palace. Ayu and Budi wore matching independence-themed outfits and expressed hopes for greater prosperity and progress for the nation.

Selvi Ananda Wears Meaningful Ta'a Dayak Kenyah Attire at 81st Indonesian Independence Day Ceremony

Selvi Ananda, wife of Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, drew attention at the 81st Independence Day ceremony at the State Palace by wearing traditional Ta'a Dayak Kenyah attire from East and North Kalimantan. The predominantly red ensemble symbolises courage, inner strength, and connection to ancestors. President Prabowo Subianto also led a moment of silence honouring independence heroes and praying for those affected by earthquakes in Sumatra and East Nusa Tenggara.

President Prabowo leads Indonesia's 81st Independence Day Ceremony

President Prabowo Subianto led Indonesia's 81st Independence Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace, wearing traditional national attire and receiving the ceremony commander's report. The event featured a parade of the Heritage Flag and Proclamation Text from the National Monument, with students selected as flag bearers and text carriers. The ceremony, themed 'Sovereign, Just, and Prosperous Indonesia', marked the anniversary of Soekarno's proclamation of independence.

81st Independence Day: Minister P2MI Calls Migrant Workers 'Economic Heroes of the Nation'

Minister for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (P2MI) Mukhtarudin marked the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence by reaffirming the state's commitment to protecting migrant workers abroad. He described Indonesian migrant workers as 'economic heroes of the nation' and stressed that the independence theme of a sovereign, just, and prosperous Indonesia must extend to citizens working overseas. The ministry pledged to improve placement governance, legal protection, and economic empowerment for migrant workers and their families.

On Independence Day, Artha Graha Peduli reaffirms commitment to contributing to society

Artha Graha Peduli (AGP) has reaffirmed its commitment to social and environmental contributions during Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations. The organisation highlighted its programmes in health, humanitarian aid, food security, community empowerment, and cultural preservation. AGP held flag ceremonies at dozens of locations across Indonesia, including its business units and conservation areas.

81st Indonesian Independence Day: The Most Outstanding Issuers in Every Capital Market Era

As Indonesia celebrates 81 years of independence and 49 years since the reactivation of its capital market, a review of the Jakarta Stock Exchange highlights the shifting leadership among listed companies. Each era has been defined by different dominant sectors, from early manufacturers to commodity giants, consumer staples, major banks, and digital banks.

Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture commemorates Indonesia's 81st Independence Day at NTT earthquake disaster site

Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno attended Indonesia's 81st Independence Day ceremony in Ruteng, East Nusa Tenggara, the area hardest hit by a magnitude 7.7 earthquake. The government has mobilised an integrated emergency response involving air, land and sea assets to reach isolated communities. At least 54 people have died and damage is extensive across Labuan Bajo, Ruteng, Maumere and Nagekeo.

Central Kalimantan Governor urges public to continue the struggle of building Indonesia

Central Kalimantan Governor Agustiar Sabran called on the public to honour the sacrifices of national heroes by continuing their efforts to build a better and more advanced Indonesia. Speaking at the 81st Independence Day ceremony in Palangka Raya, he stressed the importance of not forgetting history and translating the spirit of independence into tangible development work. The provincial government also held a low-cost market and cultural performances to mark the occasion.

Full List of Paskibraka Team Indonesia for the 81st Independence Day Ceremony at the Palace

The formation of the Paskibraka for the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace has been announced. A total of 76 students from 38 provinces will carry out the state duty, divided into two teams: Team Indonesia Berdaulat for the flag-raising and Team Adil Makmur for the flag-lowering. The article provides the complete list of members for Team Indonesia Berdaulat.

Army Chief Maruli Confirms No Additional TNI Personnel in Aceh

Army Chief of Staff General Maruli Simanjuntak has confirmed that no additional Indonesian Army personnel will be deployed to Aceh following unrest during the 21st Aceh Peace Day commemoration in Banda Aceh. He stated that the situation remains under control and that the military will continue to support the police in maintaining security. Separately, Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas said President Prabowo Subianto has instructed him to coordinate with the DPR regarding the Aceh Special Autonomy Law, which expires in 2027.

Safeguarding the Future of Food from the Dining Table

Indonesia wastes between 23 million and 48 million tonnes of food annually, costing the economy an estimated Rp551 trillion per year. Community group Hareudang Bandung is tackling the problem through food rescue, education and cooking workshops that turn surplus produce into meals. The initiative highlights how small household actions can strengthen national food security.

Brahminy Kite Participates in Independence Day Ceremony for First Time at Bali Safari Park

A female Brahminy kite took part in the 81st Indonesian Independence Day flag ceremony at Bali Safari Park, marking the first time the bird has joined the proceedings. The bird, which is also the mascot of Jakarta, was conditioned for a week beforehand to adapt to the new environment and remained calm throughout the event. Park staff noted that the Garuda Pancasila national emblem is inspired by eagles, making the bird's participation thematically fitting.

Prabowo Applauds as Paskibraka Completes Flag-Raising at the Palace

President Prabowo Subianto led the Independence Day flag-raising ceremony at Merdeka Palace, where the Paskibraka team successfully hoisted the Red and White flag. The President and guests gave a standing ovation as the team completed their formation. White doves were also released during the applause.

Gold prices for Galeri24, Antam, and UBS rise at Pegadaian

Gold prices for Galeri24, Antam, and UBS products sold through Pegadaian increased on Monday compared with Saturday. The price of Antam gold rose to Rp2,785,000 per gram, while Galeri24 and UBS reached Rp2,687,000 and Rp2,746,000 per gram respectively. Prices are subject to change at any time.

Paskibraka 'Indonesia Berdaulat' successfully hoists Red and White at the Palace

The Paskibraka team 'Indonesia Berdaulat' successfully hoisted the Indonesian flag during the 81st Independence Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace. President Prabowo Subianto handed the duplicate heirloom flag to the flag bearer, Celina Olivia Apriani Theo, before the hoisting. The ceremony was attended by Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka and former presidents and vice presidents.

Moment Prabowo Laughs Together with Gibran and Jokowi at Merdeka Palace

President Prabowo Subianto led the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace, with Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka and former President Joko Widodo in attendance. The three were seen smiling together while watching a display of Indonesia's leading defence equipment. The ceremony included the reading of the proclamation text, a moment of silence, and the hoisting of the red and white flag by the Paskibraka.