Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 17 August 2026

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Social Affairs Ministry's public kitchen begins operating after Nagekeo earthquake in NTT

The Ministry of Social Affairs has begun operating a public kitchen in Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, to provide meals for earthquake victims. The kitchen is initially preparing 750 to 1,000 food packages per day, with plans to increase to three cooking sessions daily from Tuesday. The ministry has allocated approximately Rp13.2 billion in total indicative support for earthquake response across NTT.

North Korean Troops Bolster Russian Forces in Ukraine

North Korea is reportedly planning to send an additional 30,000 to 50,000 troops to Russia, while Ukrainian intelligence confirms Pyongyang has supplied 148 short- and medium-range ballistic missiles since 2025. Analysts suggest the troops will likely secure Russian border regions, freeing Russian forces for combat, though they do not expect the deployment to be a turning point in the war.

Procurement Efficiency Seen as Key to Eradicating Corruption

A senior PKS politician has backed President Prabowo Subianto's plan to upgrade the National Public Procurement Agency (LKPP) into a Government Procurement Agency, arguing that consolidated and transparent procurement is a direct form of corruption mitigation. The President cited efficiency gains of 20.86 percent in 2025 and 25.43 percent in 2026 from regional procurement consolidation.

Prabayeksa Golden Carriage Parade Concludes 81st Indonesian Independence Day Ceremony

The 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace concluded with the traditional parade of the Prabayeksa golden carriage, which carried the national flag and the proclamation text to the National Monument. The carriage, drawn by eight horses symbolising the month of independence, was accompanied by a joint TNI-Polri drum band and a procession representing historical Nusantara kingdoms. The ceremony formally ended with the dismissal of troops and the departure of President Prabowo.

2,534 Prisoners in Central Sulawesi Receive Independence Day Remission, 23 Released

A total of 2,534 prisoners and juvenile detainees in Central Sulawesi received remission to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, with 23 of them being released immediately. The symbolic handover was led by Deputy Governor Reny A. Lamadjido and the regional head of the corrections directorate. The event also highlighted a house renovation programme for former inmates as part of post-reintegration support.

Indonesian Independence Day: Former Sritex Employees Hope Danantara Will Help Settle Severance Pay

Former employees of the collapsed textile giant PT Sritex marked Indonesia's 81st Independence Day with a protest outside the factory, demanding unpaid severance and holiday allowances. They are pinning their hopes on the government's planned purchase of Sritex assets through Danantara to resolve their outstanding entitlements.

Sidoarjo Police's 17-Day Nonstop Mobile Driving Licence Service Breaks MURI Record

Polresta Sidoarjo has secured a record from the Indonesian World Records Museum (MURI) for operating the longest nonstop mobile driving licence service, running 24 hours a day for 17 days. The initiative was launched to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day and to provide more flexible public administration services. Police officials said the achievement reflects a commitment to innovation and adapting public services to meet the needs of the community.

Ebola in Congo Kills 2,325, Marking Highest Death Toll in History

The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has claimed 2,325 lives, surpassing the previous record of 2,299 deaths recorded between 2018 and 2020. The United Nations has described the outbreak as the fastest-spreading in recorded history, with one person dying every half hour. Experts attribute the rising case fatality rate to weaknesses in surveillance, detection, and access to healthcare rather than increased virulence.

Pillow Fighting Contest at Tukad Unda Draws Laughter

Residents of Tangkas Village in Klungkung, Bali, celebrated Indonesia's 81st Independence Day with a series of traditional competitions at the Tukad Unda river. The event, organised by local youth and supported by the village credit institution and government, drew large crowds and boosted local traders. Organisers plan to continue the annual celebration due to strong community enthusiasm.

MPR acting secretary-general urges public to fill independence with real contributions

Siti Fauziah, acting secretary-general of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), has called on all elements of society to mark Indonesia's Independence Day with tangible contributions rather than mere historical remembrance. She emphasised that the current generation's struggle lies in combating ignorance, poverty and division through work and achievement. Fauziah also urged young people to maintain unity and contribute positively to national development amid the challenges of the digital era.

Cooperatives Minister: Government present to economically liberate the people

Cooperatives Minister Ferry Juliantono has affirmed the government's commitment to ensuring the state is present for citizens still facing economic and social challenges. Speaking at the 81st Independence Day ceremony, he highlighted the strategic role of the Cooperatives Ministry in achieving economic justice and prosperity. The government is strengthening cooperatives as instruments of economic equality, including through the Koperasi Desa/Kelurahan Merah Putih programme.

81 Years of Indonesian Independence: How Strong Is Its Military Compared to ASEAN?

Indonesia ranks as the strongest military power in Southeast Asia according to Global Firepower 2026, placing 13th globally with a PowerIndex score of 0.2582. The country leads the region in naval assets and total personnel, though Vietnam, Thailand, and Singapore surpass it in specific categories such as reserve forces, aircraft numbers, and defence spending. Indonesia's strength is described as the most balanced in the region, supported by its large population, maritime capabilities, natural resources, and logistics network.

National Police Chief Listyo Sigit Discusses the Meaning of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, Mentions Situation in Aceh

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo used the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence to call for national unity amid the country's diversity. He stressed that Indonesia's pluralism—spanning thousands of islands, ethnicities, religions and cultures—can become a source of strength if properly maintained. Sigit also urged the public to pray for continued progress towards the shared vision of a Golden Indonesia by 2045.

Eight Monitor Lizards Hidden in Suitcase, South Korean Foreign National Arrested at Airport

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry has foiled an attempt to smuggle eight live monitor lizards to Seoul via Soekarno-Hatta Airport. A 25-year-old South Korean national, identified as JJ, was named a suspect after the reptiles were discovered in his luggage. The case highlights the ongoing use of international flight routes for the illegal wildlife trade.

House Commission III Targets Asset Forfeiture Bill to Be Passed Before December 2026

House of Representatives Commission III is intensifying deliberations on the Asset Forfeiture Bill, with hearings planned two to three times a week. Chairman Habiburokhman has set a target for the bill to be enacted before December 2026, or within two sitting periods at the latest. The government has indicated President Prabowo Subianto has instructed the Minister of Law to expedite the process.

Rafale fighter jets, A400M make debut flypast over Merdeka Palace

Indonesia showcased its newest military aircraft, including Rafale fighter jets and Airbus A400M transport planes, during a flypast over Merdeka Palace to mark the 81st Independence Day. President Prabowo Subianto, Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, and former President Joko Widodo observed the aerial display, which featured manoeuvres by the Air Force's aerobatic team and joint TNI-Polri helicopter formations. The event highlighted the modernisation of Indonesia's defence equipment under Prabowo's tenure as Minister of Defence.

81st Indonesian Independence Day Becomes Momentum for Service Transformation and Greater Social Awareness

State-owned insurer PT Jasa Raharja marked Indonesia's 81st Independence Day by reaffirming its commitment to safe and protected public mobility. The company reported disbursing Rp1.948 trillion in compensation to 91,836 traffic accident victims up to July 2026, with average payout times reduced to just over one day for fatalities. Jasa Raharja also provided emergency relief to earthquake-affected communities in East Nusa Tenggara.

Public Works Minister Visits NTT, Leads Independence Day Ceremony and Urges Post-Earthquake Recovery

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo led the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony in Ende, East Nusa Tenggara, and immediately afterwards travelled to Nagekeo to accelerate the response to a 5.8-magnitude earthquake. He stressed that the central government must act quickly to restore roads, water supply, schools and housing. Emergency measures have already begun, including clean water distribution and repairs to landslide-hit national road sections.

Hundreds of Indonesians celebrate 81st Independence Day in Penang

Around 700 Indonesian citizens in Penang, Kedah, and Perlis marked Indonesia's 81st Independence Day with a flag ceremony at Wisma Indonesia Penang. The event included the presentation of long-service awards, cultural performances, and traditional games. The Consulate General reaffirmed its commitment to serving and protecting Indonesians in its jurisdiction.

Padang Pariaman adopts agroecology to achieve food sovereignty

Farmers in Padang Pariaman, West Sumatra, have begun implementing agroecological farming methods as part of an effort to achieve food sovereignty and reduce dependence on external agricultural inputs. The initiative, led by the Indonesian Peasants Union (SPI), has completed its first harvest and plans to expand across approximately five hectares of rice fields. Local village officials support the programme, viewing it as a way to lower production costs and potentially develop into formal village policy.

KOWANI: Independence Day a Reminder for Women to Continue Playing a Role in Development

The Indonesian Women's Congress (KOWANI) marked the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence by reaffirming women's role in national development. Chairwoman Nannie Hadi Tjanjanto highlighted KOWANI's commitment to aligning its programmes with government priorities, including the Asta Cita agenda, stunting prevention, and economic empowerment. The organisation also pledged to support the Free Nutritious Meals programme and to advocate for tempeh's recognition as UNESCO intangible cultural heritage.

APPMI: Rote traditional attire worn by Gibran shows sympathy for NTT

The Jakarta chapter of the Indonesian Fashion Designers and Entrepreneurs Association (APPMI) has interpreted Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka's choice of traditional Rote attire as a gesture of sympathy for the people of East Nusa Tenggara affected by a recent earthquake. The association also highlighted the broader message of celebrating Indonesia's cultural diversity during the 81st Independence Day commemoration. Fashion designer Ali Charisma suggested that blending traditional elements with modern design could further strengthen the global competitiveness of Indonesian fashion.

BNPB: Infrastructure affected by M7.7 NTT earthquake gradually recovering

Indonesia's disaster mitigation agency reports that infrastructure damaged by the magnitude 7.7 earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara is steadily being restored, with electricity nearly fully recovered and telecommunications at over 95 percent. The government has deployed field hospitals, medical teams, and over 1,400 personnel to accelerate emergency response and recovery efforts.

Minister invites all to celebrate 81st Independence Day as time to strengthen tourism

Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana has called on all stakeholders to use Indonesia's 81st Independence Day as a momentum to strengthen tourism's contribution to national economic growth. She presented state honours, including the Satyalancana Kepariwisataan, to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to tourism development. The minister emphasised that the spirit of independence should be realised through care, solidarity, and concrete contributions to building quality and sustainable tourism.

East Jakarta Mayor invites residents to collaborate on environmental challenges

East Jakarta Mayor Munjirin has called for stronger cross-sector collaboration to address environmental issues such as water scarcity, prolonged drought, and waste management. He emphasised that independence must be filled with concrete work, including waste sorting initiatives and the expansion of TPS 3R facilities through private sector partnerships. The appeal was made during the closing ceremony of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations.

Seribu Islands Regent Calls on Young Generation to Fill Independence with Achievement

Seribu Islands Regent Muhammad Fadjar Churniawan has urged young people in the archipelago to mark Indonesia's independence by continuing to create and achieve through creativity and sportsmanship. Speaking at the 81st Independence Day commemoration on Pramuka Island, he highlighted the expanded meaning of the independence struggle for today's youth. The Seribu Islands Festival was held after the ceremony to provide a platform for residents, especially young people, to showcase their potential.

81st Indonesian Independence Day and the Meaning of Palestinian Independence

An Indonesian professor and disaster researcher reflects on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, drawing parallels between the nation's founding principle that independence is the right of all peoples and the ongoing plight of Palestinians in Gaza. He highlights the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, citing Ministry of Health statistics, and underscores the importance of training health workers to provide long-term care for victims with chronic wounds and disabilities.

August Money Circulation Explodes, Do People's Wallets Benefit?

Indonesia's Independence Day celebrations in August trigger a seasonal surge in money circulation, but the author questions whether this translates into lasting benefits for ordinary citizens. The article argues that the government must transform this annual spending spike into strategic economic management aligned with the 81st Independence Day theme of sovereignty, justice, and prosperity. Without proper policies, the money circulating during the festivities risks flowing back to large-scale markets without improving real purchasing power for lower-income groups.

North Jakarta City Government Prioritises Public Transport and Environmental Issues on Independence Day

North Jakarta Mayor Hendra Hidayat used the 81st Independence Day ceremony to call for collective action in building Jakarta as a global city. He highlighted the city's 5.52% economic growth and outlined priorities including public transport, environmental management, and human resource development.

UPNVJ promotes literacy and organic waste management

Universitas Pembangunan Nasional Veteran Jakarta has launched a community service programme in Indramayu, West Java, combining the revitalisation of a reading garden with training on organic waste processing. The initiative includes composting drums and black soldier fly cultivation, aiming to improve literacy while creating economic value from household waste.

Minister Nusron assures land readiness for permanent housing for NTT earthquake victims

Agrarian and Spatial Planning Minister Nusron Wahid has pledged government oversight of land provision for permanent housing for earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara. He stressed that ensuring available land is part of the state's responsibility to meet the basic needs of disaster-affected communities. Current priorities remain emergency response, with permanent housing discussions to follow once the emergency phase concludes.

Dressed in Traditional Attire, Bumi Indraprasta II Residents Hold Independence Day Ceremony

Residents of RW 16 in Bumi Indraprasta II, Bogor, celebrated Indonesia's 81st Independence Day with a ceremony featuring participants dressed in a variety of traditional regional costumes. The event highlighted increased involvement of young people in ceremonial roles, a shift from previous years when older residents dominated. Community leaders emphasised the importance of national unity and continuing the struggle to fill the nation's independence.

Palace on Prabowo flanked by Jokowi-Gibran: They have been close, besties

State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi has explained the seating arrangement that placed President Prabowo Subianto between Vice President Gibran Rakabuming and former President Joko Widodo during the 81st Indonesian Independence Day celebrations. Prasetyo said the arrangement was situational and reflected the close relationship between Prabowo and Jokowi, whom he described as 'besties'. He noted that other former presidents were unable to attend, and seating was adjusted to honour those present.

Kupang Mayor and Deputy Mayor Wear Flores Traditional Attire at 81st Independence Day Ceremony as Symbol of Earthquake Solidarity

The Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Kupang wore traditional Manggarai and Sikka attire during the city's 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony as a gesture of solidarity with earthquake-affected communities in Flores. The predominantly black clothing symbolised mourning for the victims. In his address, the Mayor also highlighted government efforts to address kerosene shortages and announced a property tax penalty reduction programme.

Purbaya: NTT Earthquake Handling Budget Will Be Increased If Insufficient

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has assured that budget constraints will not hinder earthquake response efforts in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). The government will initially utilise available funds, with additional support to be provided if needs escalate. A disaster reserve of approximately Rp 5 trillion has been allocated in the 2026 state budget.

NTB Provincial Government dispatches team to investigate alleged shrimp farm pollution in North Lombok

The West Nusa Tenggara provincial government has sent a joint team from the Environment and Forestry Service and the Marine and Fisheries Service to investigate alleged marine pollution caused by shrimp farms in North Lombok Regency. The move follows a viral video showing foamy seawater and complaints from local residents and environmental groups. Officials say the findings will determine whether violations occurred and what enforcement action may be required.

Independence Day a momentum for Thousand Islands Police to strengthen synergy

The Thousand Islands Police chief has emphasised that the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence is an opportunity to strengthen collaboration and maintain public order in the regency. Police, military and local government personnel ensured that the flag ceremony and Thousand Islands Festival proceeded safely and smoothly. The event also served to reinforce nationalism and build cooperation among all elements of the island community.

KKP patrol vessel carries 50 tonnes of aid for NTT earthquake victims

The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries has dispatched approximately 50 tonnes of humanitarian aid for communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The shipment, a collaboration between the ministry and the Southeast Sulawesi provincial government, departed from Kendari aboard the patrol vessel Orca 06. Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono said aid distribution would continue throughout the emergency response and recovery period.

Jakarta Schools Allowed to Implement Distance Learning on 18 August 2026

The DKI Jakarta provincial government has permitted state and private schools to implement distance learning (PJJ) on 18 August 2026, following an appeal from the Minister of State Secretary to allow the public to celebrate the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence. The policy, formalised in Circular Letter No. 87/SE/2026, grants schools flexibility while requiring them to ensure curriculum targets are met. School heads must provide supervision and maintain communication with parents throughout the distance learning period.

Pertamina adds tanker trucks to accelerate fuel normalisation in Flores

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has deployed additional fuel tanker trucks from Bima, West Nusa Tenggara, to speed up the restoration of fuel distribution in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, following the recent earthquake. As of Monday, 47 of 52 petrol stations in the region have resumed operations, with five still closed. The company says it is prioritising safety and operational readiness while continuing to monitor affected stations.

The World's Most Elite Club: Jeff Bezos and Mark Zuckerberg Cannot Get In

Jeff Bezos has not been granted membership to the Indian Creek Country Club in Miami despite owning three properties on the island worth around US$234 million. The club, known as the 'Billionaire Bunker', has a rigorous vetting process where wealth and fame can actually work against applicants. Other prominent billionaires including Mark Zuckerberg, Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump have also failed to secure membership.

Humanitarian Aid Continues to Flow for Natural Disaster Victims in NTT

PT Bank Central Asia Tbk (BCA), through its corporate social responsibility arm Bakti BCA, has partnered with the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) to deliver humanitarian aid to victims of the 7.7-magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). The assistance includes medicines, baby supplies, blankets, tents, and portable beds, distributed in coordination with local government and security forces. BCA has confirmed that the disaster has not affected its branch operations in the province and that all employees in the affected area are safe.

Paskibraka 'Indonesia Adil Makmur' completes lowering of Red and White flag

The Paskibraka team 'Indonesia Adil Makmur' completed the ceremonial lowering of the Indonesian flag at Merdeka Palace on Monday afternoon as part of the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence. The ceremony was attended by President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, who witnessed the return of the flag and the Proclamation manuscript to the National Monument. Members of the public were then invited to enjoy traditional Indonesian food and drink in the palace grounds.

On Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, Golkar stresses unity in facing national challenges

Golkar Party youth leader Said Aldi Al Idrus used the 81st Independence Day ceremony to call for national unity and intergenerational commitment to the country's founding ideals. He also announced that the party's youth wing has deployed a humanitarian team to assist victims of recent disasters in East Nusa Tenggara and Sumatra.

Curug Residents Extend Flag Parade Tradition to 81 Metres for Independence Day

Thousands of residents from Cukanggalih village in Curug, Tangerang Regency, held a self-funded national carnival and giant flag parade to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The event featured 27 large decorated vehicles, 28 odong-odong, and around 1,000 motorcycles, with the flag length growing annually since the 75th anniversary to reach 81 metres. Local officials praised the community's initiative as a reflection of nationalism and respect for the nation's heroes.

Normalising Fuel Distribution in NTT, Pertamina Adds Dozens of Tanker Trucks

PT Pertamina (Persero) is accelerating the normalisation of energy distribution in East Nusa Tenggara following the Flores earthquake, with 47 of 52 petrol stations now back in operation. The company has dispatched 11 fuel tanker trucks and one avtur tanker from Bima, West Nusa Tenggara, to Labuan Bajo to strengthen supply. Pertamina Patra Niaga continues to monitor the remaining five non-operational stations to ensure they can be restored safely and promptly.

Foreigners Join in the Fun of Kerupuk Eating Competition at Legian Beach

Foreign nationals in Bali enthusiastically participated in traditional Indonesian Independence Day games at Legian Beach, including kerupuk eating, sack racing, and tug of war. Organised by the Bali Friendship community, the event aimed to introduce foreign visitors to Indonesian culture and the spirit of gotong royong. Participants praised the experience as a unique way to learn about Indonesian history and traditions.

Prasetyo Hadi Reveals Thousands of MSMEs Enliven Independence Day at the Palace, President Prabowo Prepared to Join Carnival

State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi announced that thousands of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) participated in the 81st Indonesian Independence Day celebrations at Merdeka Palace. The event proceeded smoothly, with guests attending from various regions in traditional attire. President Prabowo Subianto is also prepared to join the carnival.

5 Top International News Stories

A roundup of major international developments includes Hamas leaders meeting US envoy Jared Kushner in Egypt to discuss the Gaza peace plan rejected by Israel. Indonesia and seven other Muslim-majority nations condemned Israel's rejection of the roadmap, while Ukraine and Russia continued mutual attacks that killed 19 people. Iran announced a bounty for killing or capturing US soldiers, and Iranian drones struck the office of the Kurdistan Region's prime minister in Iraq.

Getting to Know Neeltje Deliana Inskpwi Werimon, the Tray Bearer at the 81st Indonesian Independence Day Flag-Lowering Ceremony

Neeltje Deliana Inskpwi Werimon, a student from SMA Negeri 8 Jayapura, Papua, was entrusted with carrying the tray during the flag-lowering ceremony for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day at the State Palace. Her selection as a member of the national flag-raising squad (Paskibraka) has drawn public attention, particularly as she represents a relatively new school. The article highlights her background, leadership experience, and the pride she feels in representing Papua at the national level.