Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 17 August 2026

Showing 351-400 of 1,319 articles

BNPB identifies 68 fatalities from NTT earthquake as of Monday afternoon

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has identified 68 fatalities following the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Nusa Tenggara Timur. The government has reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating emergency response and post-disaster recovery in the affected areas.

German Minister Conveys Condolences for NTT Earthquake Victims Ahead of Indonesia Visit

Germany's Development Minister Reem Alabali Radovan has expressed condolences for the victims of the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, which has killed 68 people and injured 213 others. She is travelling to Indonesia for a three-day working visit focused on strengthening cooperation in renewable energy and a just energy transition. The visit includes a business delegation and aims to deepen economic ties, with Indonesia identified as one of Germany's nine new focus countries.

Residents enthusiastically watch flag-lowering ceremony from Bundaran HI

Jakarta residents gathered at the Bundaran HI people's party stage to watch the live broadcast of the flag-lowering ceremony at Merdeka Palace, marking the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence. Attendees expressed joy at experiencing the celebration in person rather than only through television. President Prabowo Subianto led the ceremony, with the Paskibraka forming the number 81 during the procession.

Mentally Disturbed Woman Disrupts Independence Day Ceremony in Indramayu, Nearly Embraces Lucky Hakim

A woman believed to be suffering from a mental disorder disrupted the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony in Indramayu, West Java, by approaching the regent. Security personnel intervened swiftly to prevent her from embracing Bupati Lucky Hakim. The ceremony continued without significant disruption.

Jakarta Residents Welcome Rp8 Public Transport Fare for 81st Independence Day

Jakartans have responded positively to the special Rp8 fare for public transport introduced to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. Commuters said the policy eased their financial burden and encouraged them to use services such as KRL, TransJakarta and the MRT. Governor Pramono Anung said the fare was adjusted from an initially planned Rp1 to align with the symbolic national figure of 81.

BEM UI to Stage Protest Tomorrow Questioning the Meaning of Independence

The University of Indonesia's Student Executive Board (BEM UI) will hold a demonstration at the Hotel Indonesia roundabout on Tuesday, a day after the 81st Independence Day anniversary, to question the meaning of independence. The group argues that the government has mortgaged sovereignty through trade agreements and suppressed the people's voice. Eight demands will be presented, including an end to corruption, genuine agrarian reform, and lower staple food and fuel prices.

Law Minister urges public to strengthen legal culture on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day

Minister of Law Supratman Andi Agtas has called on Indonesians to reinforce a culture of law as the nation marks its 81st anniversary of independence. He stressed that national sovereignty must be underpinned by the supremacy of law, accessible justice, and legal certainty. The remarks accompanied the state flag-lowering ceremony at Merdeka Palace led by President Prabowo Subianto.

GWM Ora 5 Touring revealed with longer dimensions than standard variant

The GWM Ora 5 Touring electric SUV has been revealed through Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology documents, showing a wagon-style design that is longer than the standard Ora 5. The model is positioned in the mid-size electric SUV segment and is expected to launch in Australia in late 2026 with a price near A$40,000.

Home Affairs Minister Tito Urges Regional Governments to Accelerate Data Collection on NTT Earthquake Impact

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has called on regional governments in East Nusa Tenggara to speed up damage assessments following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake. The acceleration is deemed essential to ensure government aid reaches affected residents promptly. Tito made the appeal after inspecting the worst-hit area of Lamba Leda Utara in East Manggarai Regency.

Freeport Targets Gold Production of 700,000 Ounces by End of 2026

PT Freeport Indonesia aims to produce 700,000 ounces of gold by the end of 2026 as it recovers from a mudslide incident at the Grasberg Block Cave mine. The company expects to reach 65% of normal production capacity by the end of the second half of 2026, with full capacity targeted for late 2027. State revenue contributions could exceed Rp100 trillion once operations return to normal.

Revision of Aceh Governance Law Targeted for Completion This Year

Law and Human Rights Minister Supratman Andi Agtas has expressed hope that the revision of Law No. 11 of 2006 on Aceh Governance can be completed this year, following President Prabowo Subianto's instruction to coordinate with the House of Representatives. The revision includes extending the Aceh Special Autonomy Fund, which is currently set to expire in 2027. The minister also called on the people of Aceh to maintain unity and the sovereignty of the Republic of Indonesia.

Emotional Moments as Inmates Freed on Independence Day

Thousands of prisoners across Indonesia received sentence reductions on the 81st anniversary of independence, with several being released immediately. The remissions were granted at facilities including Tangerang, Banyuwangi, and Mamuju. The occasion provided emotional reunions between freed inmates and their families.

Hundreds of Houthi Fighters Killed in Fierce Clashes in Yemen

More than 200 Houthi fighters have been killed in 48 hours, mostly in Taiz province, marking one of the heaviest casualty tolls for the Iran-backed group since the latest escalation began. The Houthis are reportedly sending elite reinforcements and releasing prisoners in exchange for military service to offset their losses.

Revision of Aceh Governance Law Expected to Be Completed This Year

Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas has expressed hope that the revision of Law No. 11 of 2006 on Aceh Governance will be finalised this year, following a directive from President Prabowo Subianto to coordinate with the House of Representatives. The revision includes provisions for extending the Aceh Special Autonomy Fund, which is currently set to expire in 2027. The minister also called on the people of Aceh to maintain unity and the sovereignty of the Republic of Indonesia.

3,744 Prisoners in West Sumatra Receive Remission, 60 Gain Freedom

A total of 3,744 inmates in West Sumatra received remission and sentence reductions to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, with 60 of them immediately released. The remissions ranged from one to six months and were granted as recognition for behavioural improvement and participation in rehabilitation programmes. Regional officials emphasised that the correctional system aims to foster self-reliance and social reintegration.

Bogor Police Destroy 1.5 Million Prescription Pills and 15,000 Bottles of Alcohol on Independence Day

Bogor Resort Police destroyed 1.5 million prescription pills, narcotics evidence and over 15,000 bottles of alcohol seized from 77 cases between June and August 2026. The destruction took place after the 81st Independence Day ceremony in Cibinong, involving 97 suspects. Police emphasised the action as a commitment to eradicating illegal drug distribution and protecting the younger generation.

North Maluku Provincial Government Disburses Rp1 Billion Emergency Response Fund to Aid NTT Earthquake Victims

The North Maluku provincial government has allocated Rp1 billion in emergency response funds to assist communities affected by the disaster in East Nusa Tenggara. Governor Sherly Tjoanda emphasised that the aid reflects inter-regional solidarity and is intended to accelerate relief and recovery efforts. She called on all Indonesians to strengthen one another in times of disaster.

Industry Minister: Rp5 million electric motorcycle incentive awaits Finance Ministry regulation

Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita has confirmed that the planned Rp5 million incentive for electric motorcycles is technically ready but cannot be implemented until the Finance Ministry issues its ministerial regulation. The programme is expected to be rolled out in stages, initially targeting around 6 million units. Eligible motorcycle brands will be determined jointly by the Industry Ministry, Danantara Indonesia, and the Finance Ministry.

IKN Development Funding Sources Revealed: State Budget Rp 48 T, Private Sector Rp 74 T

The Nusantara Capital City Authority (OIKN) has disclosed the funding sources for the development of Indonesia's new capital, revealing that the project relies on a combination of state budget allocations, public-private partnership schemes, and private investment. State budget funding for the 2025-2029 period amounts to Rp 48.8 trillion, while private investment has reached Rp 74.54 trillion and public-private partnership projects total Rp 134.22 trillion. The funding will support the construction of government buildings, housing, commercial areas, and supporting infrastructure in the new capital.

81st Indonesian Independence Day: 91 Prisoners in South Sulawesi Freed

A total of 91 inmates in South Sulawesi were released on 17 August to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, having received sentence reductions through general remission and sentence reduction programmes. The regional corrections office granted remission to 5,448 of the 5,705 prisoners proposed, including 2,322 inmates convicted of serious offences such as drug trafficking and corruption. Officials said the remissions reward good behaviour and help ease overcrowding in the province's prisons.

Two 2003 Akpol and Akmil Officers to Command 81st Indonesian Independence Day Ceremony at the Palace

Two middle-ranking officers from the Indonesian National Police and the Indonesian National Armed Forces have been selected to command the flag-lowering and main ceremonies for the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence at Merdeka Palace. Police Chief Commissioner Jerrold Hendra Josef Kumontoy and Infantry Colonel Priyo Handoyo, both graduates of the 2003 military and police academies, were chosen after a competitive selection process. The appointments highlight the government's recognition of distinguished service careers within the security forces.

State Secretary: President Prabowo and Jokowi Are Close, Sometimes Called 'Besties'

State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has addressed the close relationship between President Prabowo Subianto and former President Joko Widodo, noting that the two are often described as 'besties' on social media. He also explained that the seating arrangement at the 81st Independence Day ceremony, where Prabowo sat flanked by Jokowi and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, was situational rather than deliberate. The arrangement was influenced by the absence of other former presidents, Megawati Soekarnoputri and Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono.

PalmCo absorbs 2.09 million tonnes of smallholder FFB up to July 2026

PT Perkebunan Nusantara IV PalmCo recorded absorption of more than 2.09 million tonnes of fresh fruit bunches from partner smallholder plantations up to July 2026, a rise of over 13 per cent year-on-year. The state-owned palm oil company attributed the growth to a healthier partnership ecosystem, agronomy coaching and the distribution of certified superior seedlings. Average partner plantation productivity reached 20.18 tonnes per hectare, above the 19-tonne standard set by the Indonesian Oil Palm Research Institute.

PLBN Skouw Celebrates Independence Day, Supports Border as Gateway of Sovereignty

The Skouw Cross-Border Post in Jayapura, Papua, held a ceremony to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, with officials emphasising the border area's role in embodying national sovereignty. Deputy for Border Area Potential Management Edfrie R. Maith called for cross-border posts to be upgraded from mere inspection points into proper state gateways that support trade, logistics and local economic growth.

Residents Hand Over 16 Illegal Firearms to North Maluku Police, Governor Sherly Expresses Appreciation

Governor of North Maluku Sherly Tjoanda has praised residents who voluntarily surrendered 16 illegal firearms to the regional police, describing the move as a shared commitment to maintaining security and peace. The weapons, mostly remnants of the 1999-2000 social conflict, were handed over by five residents along with magazines and ammunition. Police said four of the firearms originated from the Philippines and had been intended for sale to armed criminal groups in Papua.

Parigi Moutong Earthquake: One Resident Dies and Two Houses Collapse

A magnitude 6.2 earthquake struck Parigi Moutong Regency in Central Sulawesi, causing structural damage and one fatality. The provincial government has confirmed that the victim died from a heart attack during the quake rather than from falling debris. Authorities are coordinating relief efforts but have not declared a state of emergency as the situation remains under control.

US, Egypt, and Poland Extend Congratulations on Indonesia's 81st Independence Anniversary

Several friendly nations, including the United States, Egypt, Germany, Poland, and Switzerland, conveyed congratulatory messages on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The messages emphasised strengthening strategic partnerships and historical ties. Egypt reiterated its pride as the first country to recognise Indonesia's independence.

Trenggono Deploys Fisheries Patrol Vessel to Deliver Earthquake Aid to NTT

Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Sakti Wahyu Trenggono has dispatched a fisheries patrol vessel carrying approximately 50 tonnes of humanitarian aid to earthquake-affected communities in East Nusa Tenggara. The shipment, a collaboration between the ministry and the Southeast Sulawesi provincial government, departed from Kendari and is expected to reach Labuan Bajo within two days. The ministry has also established a disaster response task force and is identifying affected fishing communities for further assistance.

Iranian President offers humanitarian aid following NTT earthquake

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has expressed condolences to Indonesia over the devastating earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara and affirmed Iran's readiness to send humanitarian assistance. In a message to President Prabowo Subianto, he offered sympathy for the victims and pledged medical and humanitarian support. He also expressed hope for the swift recovery of stability in the affected areas.

Only Two Days Apart: The Independence Stories of Indonesia and South Korea Meet in Jakarta

A historical photography exhibition in Jakarta highlights the shared independence anniversaries of Indonesia and South Korea, both proclaimed in August 1945 just two days apart. The exhibition also commemorates the 150th birth anniversary of Korean independence figure Kim Koo and features Indonesian proclamation archives. Indonesia's Culture Minister Fadli Zon expressed support for the event and proposed designating the ANTARA Heritage Center as a national cultural heritage site.

Night Carnival for Independence Day: Avoid Monas-Sudirman Area

The Jakarta Transportation Agency has prepared situational traffic management and diversions for the decorated vehicle carnival marking Indonesia's 81st Independence Day on Monday evening. The carnival route runs from Monas through Thamrin and Sudirman to Dukuh Atas, with around 500 transport officers and 1,225 Satpol PP personnel deployed. Residents not attending are advised to avoid the area and adjust their travel routes.

Prabowo visibly moved during rendition of 'Bagimu Negeri'

President Prabowo Subianto appeared tearful as he listened to the patriotic song 'Bagimu Negeri' during the flag-lowering ceremony marking Indonesia's 81st Independence Day at Merdeka Palace. The President sang along from the opening verse and was seen wiping his face after the performance. The ceremony concluded with the return of the national flag to the President, formally ending the core proceedings.

After Infantry Colonel Priyo Handoyo, Police Chief Commissioner Jerrold Kumontoy Summoned to Meet Prabowo

President Prabowo Subianto expressed appreciation for the orderly and solemn flag-lowering ceremony at the State Palace on the afternoon of 17 August 2026. He then summoned the ceremony commander, Police Chief Commissioner Jerrold Hendra Yosef Kumontoy, along with other unit commanders to meet him. Kumontoy, a native of Tomohon, North Sulawesi, currently serves as the Balikpapan Police Chief and was selected through a rigorous internal police selection process.

After NTT Earthquake, Metro Jaya Police Send 12 Trucks of Humanitarian Aid

The Metro Jaya Regional Police have dispatched 12 trucks of humanitarian aid to communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The shipment includes food, water, blankets, and tarpaulins, and was released by the regional police chief on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. Coordination with the East Nusa Tenggara Police has been established to prioritise distribution based on needs in affected areas.

Trade Minister optimistic Indonesia's trade balance will improve as exports rise

Trade Minister Budi Santoso has expressed optimism that Indonesia's trade balance will improve in July 2026, with the deficit expected to disappear as export performance continues its positive trend. The trade deficit narrowed to US$0.45 billion in June 2026 from US$1.61 billion in May, while non-oil and gas trade recorded a surplus of US$3.04 billion. The minister attributed earlier deficits to high global oil prices in March-April, which widened the oil and gas deficit.

Freeport Celebrates Indonesia's 81st Independence Day from Papua to Gresik Smelter

PT Freeport Indonesia marked Indonesia's 81st Independence Day with simultaneous flag ceremonies across six sites in Papua, East Java, and Jakarta. President Director Tony Wenas highlighted the company's recovery efforts and projected production capacity reaching 65 per cent by the end of the second half of 2026. PTFI contributed Rp75 trillion to the state in 2025 and expects annual contributions to exceed Rp100 trillion once full production capacity is restored.

On 81st Independence Day, National Police Simultaneously Dispatch 44 Trucks of Aid to Flores

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) marked the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence by simultaneously dispatching 44 trucks and one box van carrying humanitarian aid to earthquake-affected communities in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. The aid includes food, water, blankets, medicines, and operational support such as field kitchens and water treatment units from multiple regional police commands. The effort is part of an ongoing humanitarian operation coordinated through the East Nusa Tenggara Regional Police to reach displaced residents across 22 evacuation points.

Thousands of MSMEs Enliven Indonesia's Independence Day at Merdeka Palace

Thousands of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) participated in the 81st Indonesian Independence Day celebrations at Merdeka Palace and the National Monument in Jakarta. State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi said the involvement extended beyond government-assisted groups to include unaffiliated traders. All food served at the event came from MSMEs, with vendors using their own carts brought directly to the venue.

Understanding Debt-for-Nature Swap, a Strategy to Reduce National Debt Burden Through Conservation

Indonesia is exploring debt-for-nature swap schemes as a way to ease its debt burden while funding environmental projects. The government has previously completed such swaps with Germany and the United States, redirecting debt payments towards conservation initiatives. Despite the potential benefits, authorities acknowledge structural challenges including technical capacity limits and regulatory complexity.

Minister Amran: Food self-sufficiency and rice exports are gifts for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has declared that Indonesia's achievement of food self-sufficiency and a new rice export agreement with Malaysia serve as gifts for the nation's 81st Independence Day. He highlighted that the self-sufficiency target was reached in one year instead of the planned four, with projected rice production of 34.77 million tonnes against national demand of 31.10 million tonnes. The minister also noted record farmer welfare and a significant positive shift in agricultural trade balance.

Land Certificate Title Transfer Service Expanded, 24 New Land Offices to Start September 2026

The Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) is expanding its 10-day maximum land title transfer service to 24 additional land offices starting 24 September 2026. The programme, launched at 17 offices on 17 August 2026, aims to reach 100 offices by the end of December 2026. Minister Nusron Wahid described the expansion as part of a broader transformation of services and organisation within the ministry.

BNPB Says No More Reports of Missing Residents Following NTT Earthquake

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has confirmed that as of Monday, 17 August, there are no outstanding reports of missing persons following the earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). Search and rescue teams remain deployed in affected areas, while the Ministry of Health has dispatched field hospitals and crisis management teams. The official death toll has risen to 68, with 213 injured.

Pertamina CEO Distributes Aid and Leads 81st Independence Day Ceremony in Flores

Pertamina's CEO Simon Aloysius Mantiri visited earthquake-hit Flores to distribute aid and lead the 81st Independence Day ceremony at the Reo Fuel Terminal. The state energy company is prioritising energy supply security and emergency relief for affected communities. Most fuel stations in Flores have resumed operations, with aid including tents, medicine, and basic food supplies being distributed.

Law minister targets completion of Aceh governance law revision this year

Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas aims to complete the revision of the 2006 Aceh Governance Law this year following President Prabowo Subianto's instruction to coordinate with the House of Representatives. The revision covers the extension of Aceh's special autonomy fund, which is set to expire in 2027, as well as provisions on Aceh's special status and authority. The minister also called on Acehnese people to maintain unity and the sovereignty of the Republic of Indonesia.

Pertamina CEO Visits Flores Earthquake Site, Distributes Aid and Energy Supplies

PT Pertamina's CEO Simon Aloysius Mantiri visited earthquake-affected areas in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, to oversee aid distribution and ensure fuel and LPG supplies remain available. The state energy company is prioritising energy security and basic needs for affected communities, with most fuel stations now back in operation. Pertamina is also supplying diesel for heavy equipment clearing landslides on the Trans-Flores road and prioritising aviation fuel at Labuan Bajo and Maumere airports.

Maluku Governor expresses condolences for NTT earthquake victims

Maluku Governor Hendrik Lewerissa has conveyed his condolences and deep concern for the victims of the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara on 15 August 2026. He expressed confidence in the resilience of the NTT people and called for strengthened inter-regional solidarity in disaster response. The earthquake, triggered by the Flores Back-Arc Thrust, prompted a tsunami warning that was later lifted after no significant sea level rise was detected.

Farmer and Student Arrested by Central Sulawesi Police for Carrying 103 Grams of Methamphetamine

Central Sulawesi Police's Narcotics Directorate arrested two young men in Palu for allegedly transporting 103.17 grams of methamphetamine intended for distribution in Parigi Moutong. The suspects, a 37-year-old farmer and a 27-year-old university student, were intercepted on the Trans Sulawesi road following a public tip-off. Both face charges under Indonesia's narcotics law and the new Criminal Code.

Electricity in NTT 99.5% Restored, 10 Aircraft and Thousands of Personnel Deployed

Recovery efforts following the 7.7 magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara are progressing, with 99.5% of affected electricity customers reconnected. Telecommunications restoration in East Manggarai remains a challenge at 76.3%, while the government has deployed field hospitals, crisis teams, and 10 aircraft to accelerate aid distribution.

IATMI proposes using barges as emergency ports in NTT

The Indonesian Petroleum Engineers Association (IATMI) has proposed using floating barges as emergency ports to facilitate energy distribution and aid delivery in earthquake-affected areas of East Nusa Tenggara. The organisation also suggested using drones to transport fuel and LPG to filling stations and depots. Pertamina has confirmed it is maintaining energy distribution through alternative routes while also providing humanitarian assistance.

IKN Project Funding Update as of August 2026: 29% Private Investment, 19% State Budget

The Nusantara Capital City (IKN) project has secured total funding of Rp257.56 trillion, with private investment contributing 29% and the state budget (APBN) covering 19%. The APBN allocation of Rp48.8 trillion is divided into three construction batches, including legislative and judicial buildings, while public-private partnership (KPBU) schemes account for Rp134.22 trillion. A total of 67 private investors are involved in developing hotels, hospitals, shopping centres, and other facilities.