Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 18 August 2026

Showing 1,101-1,150 of 1,549 articles

Baznas Sends Aid and Health Services to NTT Earthquake Victims

The National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) has dispatched emergency aid and health services to victims of the 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) on 15 August 2026. The agency has deployed its disaster response team and mobile health clinic to Labuan Bajo, establishing command posts, public kitchens, and distributing logistics in affected villages. Baznas is also appealing for public donations to accelerate recovery efforts, as official data records 53 deaths, 137 injuries, and over 5,600 displaced residents.

DPR Plenary Approves 11 Supreme Court Justice Candidates and 3 Ad Hoc Judges

The Indonesian House of Representatives has approved 14 candidates for the Supreme Court, comprising 11 prospective justices and 3 ad hoc judges. The approval followed a marathon fit-and-proper test conducted by Commission III on 12โ€“13 August. The new appointees will serve across criminal, civil, religious, state administrative, human rights, and corruption chambers.

Central Jakarta Police deploy 6,962 personnel to secure student protest

Central Jakarta Police have deployed 6,962 personnel to secure a student demonstration around the Hotel Indonesia Roundabout and Arjuna Wiwaha Statue near Monas. Police chief Reynold EP Hutagalung instructed officers to act humanely and avoid provocation, emphasising that students are part of the community to be served and protected. Traffic diversions will be applied situationally, with a total of 9,242 joint personnel prepared across Jakarta.

Badak LNG Develops Sustainable Agriculture in Bontang to Tackle Drought and Pests

PT Badak NGL is supporting horticultural farmers in Bontang, East Kalimantan, through its Semai Bumi corporate social responsibility programme. Innovations include solar-powered boreholes for irrigation, light traps for pest control, and the conversion of agricultural and fishery waste into compost and plant nutrients. The initiative aims to boost productivity, raise farmer incomes, and strengthen local food security.

Tax Office Pursues Rp1,277 Trillion Income Tax Target in 2027, Here's How

The Indonesian government has set an income tax (PPh) target of Rp1,277.6 trillion for 2027, a 9.9 per cent increase from the 2026 outlook. The strategy relies on improved corporate profitability, full implementation of the Coretax system, and enhanced compliance and enforcement. External risks such as geopolitical tensions and AI disruption, along with internal challenges like the informal economy, are to be mitigated through adaptive tax policy reforms.

Rice Production in Pidie, Aceh Declines Due to Brown Planthopper Infestation

Rice farmers in Pidie Regency, Aceh, are facing significant yield losses of 20 to 30 per cent during the current harvest season due to a brown planthopper outbreak. The infestation has reduced output from 7-8 tonnes per hectare to just 5-6 tonnes, while also increasing production costs and lowering grain quality. Observers link the recurring pest problem to the widespread circulation of uncertified, illegal rice seeds that lack resistance to pests and diseases.

House Assigns Leaders and Members to NTT Tomorrow, Bringing Aid for Earthquake Victims

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has expressed deep condolences over the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara and will send a delegation to the province on Wednesday. The delegation, accompanied by the finance minister and other ministers, will deliver aid and push for budget reallocation to support recovery efforts. The earthquake has caused significant damage, with nearly 8,000 homes and hundreds of public facilities affected.

BRI Field Officer Maintains Hope for South Cianjur Business Owners Despite Fog and Rough Roads

A BRI microfinance officer in South Cianjur continues to serve hundreds of small business owners despite challenging terrain and weather conditions. Randy Wijaya, a Mantri BRI at the Cibinong Unit, has spent more than two years supporting palm sugar tappers and other entrepreneurs with financing solutions and banking services. His work highlights BRI's commitment to financial inclusion in remote areas of Indonesia.

Citilink opens flights from Bandung to five major cities

Citilink has launched new domestic routes from Husein Sastranegara Airport in Bandung to Medan, Denpasar, Surabaya, Palembang and Balikpapan. The low-cost carrier says the expansion supports national connectivity and the Garuda Indonesia Group's transformation. The airline expects the services to boost tourism, business and the regional economy.

Is Prabowo's Claim That Investment in Indonesia Has Created Millions of Jobs True?

President Prabowo Subianto claimed that investment realisation in 2025 reached Rp1,931 trillion and created more than 2.7 million jobs. However, Ministry of Investment data records these figures as workers absorbed rather than new jobs created, a distinction economists say is significant. The trend also shows investment remains capital-intensive, with labour absorption actually declining in the first quarter of 2026.

Parents of Victims Attend First Hearing in Yogyakarta Daycare Abuse Case

The first hearing in the Little Aresha daycare abuse case opened at Yogyakarta District Court, with 11 of 13 defendants appearing as caregivers. Hundreds of parents of victims attended, carrying protest banners expressing their grievances. The headmaster and foundation chairperson are scheduled to be tried separately.

NTT Earthquake Update: 69 Dead, 34,689 Displaced, Here Are the Details

The earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, has claimed 69 lives and forced 34,689 residents into temporary shelters, according to the regional disaster management agency. Manggarai and East Manggarai regencies recorded the highest fatalities, with 26 and 25 deaths respectively. The disaster also damaged nearly 20,000 homes and hundreds of public facilities across eight regencies.

Not an Ordinary Liquid: Gold Turned into Gel to Deceive Airport Officers

Indonesian police have uncovered an alleged illegal gold smuggling operation in which gold bars were melted into powder and processed into a gel to evade detection at Soekarno-Hatta Airport. The gel was concealed in modified underwear, making it undetectable by X-ray machines and difficult to identify by touch. Officers raided a house and gold shop in Sunter, North Jakarta, seizing evidence including a one-kilogram gold bar, chemicals, and sewing equipment.

Mangkuluhur ARTOTEL Suites and Crea Botanica Present Ecoprint Art Based on Sustainability

Mangkuluhur ARTOTEL Suites has partnered with botanical textile studio Crea Botanica to host an ecoprint workshop as part of its ESG initiative 'The Art of Goodness'. The programme aims to introduce participants to sustainable creative processes using natural materials such as leaves and flowers. The hotel hopes the initiative will foster greater environmental awareness and encourage a reduction in fast fashion consumption.

Chasing the Rp235 Trillion Excise Revenue Target: Purbaya's Plan

The Indonesian government has set a 2027 excise revenue target of Rp235.26 trillion, a marginal 0.4% increase over the 2026 outlook. The modest growth reflects persistent challenges including consumer down-trading to cheaper cigarettes and the circulation of illegal tobacco products. Excise remains the dominant component of customs and excise revenue, accounting for approximately 74% of the total target.

Understanding Brain DSA, an Examination for Cerebral Blood Vessel Abnormalities

Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA) is highlighted as the gold standard for diagnosing cerebral blood vessel abnormalities that can lead to stroke, a leading cause of death and disability in Indonesia. The procedure is recommended only for patients with specific medical indications, not for routine screening of healthy individuals. Bethsaida Hospital in Gading Serpong offers this advanced diagnostic service, aiming to provide high-quality healthcare domestically.

SeaBank posts net profit of Rp749.26 billion in first half of 2026

PT Bank Seabank Indonesia (SeaBank) reported a net profit after tax of Rp749.26 billion for the first half of 2026, driven by strong asset growth and a 53.1 per cent year-on-year increase in lending. The digital bank also expanded its customer base to 35 million and opened its ninth branch in Medan, while being named among Forbes' World's Best Banks 2026.

DPR Receives Presidential Letters on Bank Indonesia Governor Candidate and Sale of Former KRI Warship

The Indonesian House of Representatives has received several presidential letters from President Prabowo Subianto, including a request for approval to sell a decommissioned warship and nominations for senior Bank Indonesia positions. The letters also cover a candidate for the OJK's mineral and commodity exchange supervisory role. The DPR leadership confirmed the correspondence will be processed according to parliamentary rules.

Reddit trials audio and video content in TikTok-like format

Reddit is testing audio and video content that allows users to enjoy posts in a format similar to TikTok. The trial is being conducted across several Reddit communities to gauge which content types attract the most user interest. The company says original text posts will not be replaced, and the feature is initially limited to English-language posts on iOS and Android.

Central Kalimantan Provincial Government enlivens 81st Independence Day with various traditional games

The Central Kalimantan Provincial Government celebrated Indonesia's 81st Independence Day with traditional sports competitions, folk games, and patriotic karaoke at the governor's official residence. Governor Agustiar Sabran and other officials emphasised that the activities were intended to strengthen unity, brotherhood, and national spirit among participants. The event involved representatives from vertical agencies, regional government bodies, state-owned enterprises, the military, police, banks, and youth organisations.

Police Reveal Indian National's Method of Smuggling Gold to Dubai Using Modified Underwear

Indonesian police have uncovered a sophisticated gold smuggling operation run by Indian nationals, who concealed gold in modified underwear to evade airport security. The gold was melted into a pliable paste and mixed with chemicals so it would not register as metal on X-ray machines. Authorities raided two locations in North Jakarta, seizing modified garments, gold-testing equipment, and other evidence.

Industry Minister: Textile industry still has significant growth potential

Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita has stated that Indonesia's textile and textile products industry still has substantial room for growth despite ongoing challenges. The sector employs over 3.8 million workers and recorded exports of US$4.85 billion in the first half of 2026. The government is supporting the industry through investment incentives, restructuring programmes, labour-intensive industry credit, and export financing.

Video: Bank Jago Expands Digital Innovation for Customers

Bank Jago is enhancing its digital banking services to better meet customer needs, according to Director Nicholas Tan at the Digital Banking Forum 2026. The bank is developing its superapp as a comprehensive digital banking platform and leveraging its partnership with the GoPay ecosystem to enable seamless transactions. Bank Jago is also using data and artificial intelligence across three areas to understand customer behaviour and deliver more relevant services.

Israeli Hardline Minister Calls for Killing 30-40 Gazans Every Night

Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has publicly called for targeted attacks in Gaza to kill 30 to 40 Palestinians each night, arguing that Israel should not limit its strikes to those posing an immediate threat. In a podcast interview, he also described a Gazan woman who fed a former Israeli hostage as a 'terrorist in every way' who deserved to be shot in the head. Ben-Gvir further claimed all of Gaza belongs to Israel and renewed calls for Jewish settlements across the territory and Palestinian emigration.

Ahead of Student Protest, Jakarta Provincial Government Urges Public to Maintain Security

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has called on all elements of society to keep the capital safe and conducive during the 81st Independence Day anniversary period. His remarks come as the University of Indonesia's student executive body plans a demonstration at the Hotel Indonesia roundabout. Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai said the government can regulate protest locations without eliminating citizens' right to free expression.

Investor Day 2026: Bandung City Government Opens Investment Opportunities Across Various Sectors

The Bandung City Government is hosting Investor Day 2026 to attract investment across multiple sectors. The initiative aims to showcase viable projects and create a favourable climate for both domestic and foreign investors. It reflects the city's broader strategy to accelerate economic growth through private sector participation.

Prabowo Plans to Deploy Flying Ambulances, BRIN Responds

The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is supporting President Prabowo Subianto's plan to introduce flying ambulances by developing the N219 aircraft and its amphibious variant, the N219A. The aircraft are intended to facilitate medical evacuations in remote and archipelagic regions with limited road access. BRIN is also advancing unmanned aerial vehicle technology to support future emergency logistics.

Modernisation Requires Long-Term Partners

Indonesia's industrial downstreaming policies and investment climate have sparked debate, with some Chinese-language narratives claiming a mass exodus of Chinese investment. However, data shows investment realisation continues to grow, exceeding targets in 2025 and reaching Rp498.8 trillion in Q1 2026. The article argues that Indonesia's industrial transformation and foreign investment are complementary, not contradictory, and that long-term investors need predictable policy changes rather than static regulations.

Ministry urges NTT campuses to adopt flexible learning after earthquake

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology has called on universities in East Nusa Tenggara to implement academic flexibility for students affected by the 7.7-magnitude earthquake. Minister Brian Yuliarto stressed that the safety of students and staff must take priority before face-to-face teaching resumes. The ministry will continue coordinating with institutions to support recovery and maintain the continuity of higher education.

Association: People's Party proves government realises social care

The Indonesia Small Medium Enterprises Association (ISMEA) has praised the People's Party held to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day at Monas, Jakarta, as evidence that social care remains a core national foundation. The event distributed hundreds of thousands of free regional food and drink portions and was seen as a platform for reviving values such as queuing, cleanliness, order and mutual cooperation. ISMEA also commended the Ministry of SMEs for requiring participants to reduce plastic waste.

Universities mobilise to assist victims of NTT earthquake

Several universities in East Nusa Tenggara have deployed emergency response teams, medical personnel, and volunteers to assist communities affected by the magnitude 7.7 earthquake in Flores. The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology has praised the institutions for prioritising the safety of academic staff and students while coordinating relief efforts. The government has reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating emergency response and post-disaster recovery in the region.

Bali BPBD Prepares Aid for NTT Earthquake Victims, Logistics Purchased in Ende

The Bali Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) is preparing logistical assistance for earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara, with supplies to be purchased directly in Ende Regency. A budget of Rp 150 million has been allocated for food, hygiene products, and shelter materials. Bali has also deployed personnel from BPBD and the Health Agency to assist affected communities across Flores Island.

Bareskrim Polri uncovers illegal gold smuggling disguised as gel

Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim Polri) has exposed a sophisticated gold smuggling operation in which gold bars were melted into powder and converted into gel to evade airport security. The syndicate, allegedly run by Indian nationals, is believed to have been operating for eight months and smuggling gold to Dubai. Authorities seized evidence including a 1kg gold bar, modified underwear, chemicals and a blender used in the process.

Mount Bawakaraeng climbers evacuated in South Sulawesi now total 31

The number of climbers requiring evacuation from Mount Bawakaraeng in Gowa Regency, South Sulawesi, has risen to 31 following a flag-raising ceremony marking Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. Most suffered from hypothermia, asthma, severe exhaustion, or leg injuries after traversing crowded and extremely cold routes. A joint SAR team of 295 personnel was deployed to oversee the event and continues to ensure all climbers descend safely.

Dasco Dispatches DPR Members and Purbaya to NTT to Assist Disaster Victims

The House of Representatives (DPR) has tasked several of its leaders, along with Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa and other ministers, to travel to Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, to deliver aid to earthquake victims. Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad also urged the government to reallocate unnecessary budget items for earthquake response. Finance Minister Purbaya confirmed that Rp5 trillion in on-call disaster funds is available and can be increased based on official requests from the National Disaster Management Agency.

PAM JAYA Reopens Prequalification for Strategic Partners on Water Treatment Plant Projects

Jakarta's municipal water company PAM JAYA has reopened prequalification for strategic partners to build two new water treatment plants with a combined capacity of 1,200 litres per second. The move follows an earlier round that yielded only one qualified candidate, and aims to accelerate the city's piped water coverage towards a 100% target by 2029. The projects, valued at approximately Rp792.8 billion, will be delivered under a build-operate-transfer scheme.

DPR Tasks Purbaya to Fly to Flores, Requests Budget Reallocation

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has tasked Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa and other ministers to travel to Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, to deliver aid to earthquake victims. The DPR also urged the government to reallocate unnecessary budget items for disaster response. Purbaya confirmed that Rp5 trillion in on-call disaster funds is available and can be increased based on official requests from the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB).

First Service Post for NTT Earthquake Established, Indonesia Siaga Programme Serves 3,466 Affected Residents

Muhammadiyah Disaster Management Centre and Lazismu have launched the Indonesia Siaga programme to provide humanitarian assistance to 3,466 residents affected by the earthquake in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. The emergency response includes health services, food, family kits, psychosocial support, emergency education, clean water, sanitation, and temporary shelter across six regencies. A main coordination post has been established at SMK Muhammadiyah Manggarai Timur, with data collection and verification ongoing in the severely affected Sambi Rampas sub-district.

Police Urge Protesters to Avoid Bundaran HI, Suggest Alternative Locations

Jakarta Metropolitan Police have asked demonstrators not to hold rallies at the Bundaran HI roundabout, citing its role as a key economic and public activity hub. Police have prepared alternative protest sites near the DPR, the State Palace, and various ministries. The appeal comes as the University of Indonesia's student executive body plans a major demonstration at Bundaran HI today.

Ministry prioritises academic community safety after NTT earthquake

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology has placed the safety of students and staff first following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. Minister Brian Yuliarto said the ministry is coordinating with local authorities and higher education service institutions to assess damage and ensure learning can continue with necessary adjustments. Initial reports indicate minor damage at several private universities in the affected area.

Trading on a Demo Account: Methods, Benefits, and Tips for Beginners

A demo account allows novice traders to practise buying and selling instruments such as forex, shares, or crypto assets using virtual funds before risking real money. It helps users learn price movements, platform features, strategy testing, and risk management without direct financial loss. However, the psychological and execution conditions of live trading can differ significantly from simulation.

AI Transformation Accelerates, Indonesian Companies Urged to Prepare New Working Patterns

Indonesian businesses are entering a new phase of artificial intelligence adoption, moving from experimentation to integrating AI into daily operations for measurable impact. Data Labs Analytics, a Google Cloud Premier Partner in Indonesia, has launched the Gemini Enterprise Xperience Center to help organisations experience practical AI applications firsthand. The initiative aims to bridge the gap between understanding AI's potential and deploying it to solve real operational challenges.

Minister urges NTT task force to bolster quake response operations

Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno has called for the immediate formation of a provincial task force to strengthen coordination of earthquake relief efforts in East Nusa Tenggara. The task force is intended to help identify survivors' needs, consolidate central government aid, and improve distribution to hard-to-reach areas. The earthquake has so far claimed at least 68 lives and injured 213 people across Flores.

State Palace Holds Independence Day Celebrations at 40 Locations Across Jakarta, Including Grocery Distribution

The Indonesian government has expanded the 81st Independence Day celebrations beyond the Presidential Palace and Monas to 40 locations across Jakarta, including densely populated residential areas. State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi said the move aims to make the festivities more inclusive, with activities ranging from traditional games and music stages to free health checks and distribution of basic food packages. President Prabowo Subianto reportedly emphasised that independence belongs to all Indonesians and should be celebrated in villages and neighbourhoods, not just at central government venues.

Polda Metro Deploys 9,242 Personnel, Guarantees Humane Security for Protests

Polda Metro Jaya has deployed 9,242 joint personnel to secure 31 public demonstrations and 16 community events across Jakarta on Tuesday, 18 August. Officers are instructed to carry no firearms and to act professionally and humanely, in line with Law No. 9 of 1998 on freedom of expression. Police have advised protesters to avoid key economic and transport hubs such as the HI Roundabout and Sudirman area.

BRI Field Officers Uphold the Hopes of Business Owners in South Cianjur

BRI field officer Randy Wijaya has spent more than two years supporting hundreds of small business owners in South Cianjur, many of whom are palm sugar tappers. Despite difficult terrain and poor infrastructure, he provides financial guidance and access to banking services. BRI's micro director says such dedication reflects the bank's commitment to strengthening MSMEs and expanding financial inclusion.

Three Elderly and Toddler Victims of NTT Earthquake Evacuated by Helicopter to Komodo Airport

Basarnas deployed a helicopter to evacuate three earthquake victims in East Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, who required emergency medical treatment. The victims, including a five-year-old girl, suffered fractures and dislocations caused by the 7.7 magnitude earthquake. They were flown to Komodo Airport in Labuan Bajo and transferred to a referral hospital for intensive care.

Police Explain Reasons for Detaining Several People Ahead of Jakarta Protest

Polda Metro Jaya detained 21 individuals ahead of a planned demonstration by University of Indonesia students, citing possession of prohibited items such as firecrackers, flares, and bottles intended for Molotov cocktails. Police stated the detainees were not affiliated with the student protesters and were suspected of attempting to provoke conflict between demonstrators and security forces. A total of 9,242 joint personnel were deployed to secure the protest.

Police Detain 21 People Ahead of Protest, Allegedly Carrying Flares and Firecrackers

Polda Metro Jaya detained 21 individuals suspected of carrying flares, firecrackers and materials for Molotov cocktails ahead of a demonstration by University of Indonesia students. Police said the group was not affiliated with the student protesters and intended to provoke conflict between demonstrators and security personnel. A total of 9,242 joint personnel were deployed to secure the protest.

Police Detain 21 People Ahead of BEM UI Demonstration at Bundaran HI

Jakarta police have detained 21 individuals suspected of carrying flares and firecrackers ahead of a demonstration by the University of Indonesia's student executive body. Authorities believe the group was not affiliated with the students and intended to provoke clashes between protesters and security forces. More than 9,000 joint personnel have been deployed to secure the rally.