Archive: 18 August 2026
Showing 1,301-1,350 of 1,549 articles
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:24 WIB
Former Customs Director faces first hearing in CPO POME corruption case
Former Customs Director Fadjar Donny Tjahjadi and ten other defendants appeared for the first hearing in a corruption case involving the misclassification of crude palm oil exports as palm oil mill effluent. The alleged scheme, which took place between 2022 and 2024, was designed to circumvent export restrictions and state levies. State losses have been calculated by the BPKP, with investigators seizing cash and assets worth over Rp736 billion.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:24 WIB
IPDN 2026 Registration Requirements: Complete Documents, Schedule, and Procedures
The Institute of Public Administration (IPDN) has announced its 2026 intake, offering 1,410 places—the largest quota among Indonesia's official service schools. Prospective applicants must meet strict criteria including age limits, minimum academic scores, and physical requirements. Registration opens on 18 August 2026 via the SSCASN portal, with the final selection results expected in November 2026.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:23 WIB
Civil Service School Registration Opens Until 30 August 2026, Check the Stages
Registration for Indonesia's 2026 civil service schools (Sekolah Kedinasan) opened on 18 August and will run until 30 August 2026 through the BKN's SSCASN portal. The government has allocated 4,770 places across nine ministries and agencies, an increase from 3,257 in 2025. The selection process includes administrative screening, basic competency tests, and final announcements scheduled through early November 2026.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:22 WIB
Former West Java Ombudsman Chief Dan Satriana Passes Away
Dan Satriana, the former head of the West Java Ombudsman, has died in Bandung in the early hours of Tuesday, 18 August 2026. He passed away at around 2.30 a.m. local time, with the family announcing the news through a short message circulated among journalists. The funeral is expected to take place at the Gumuruh public cemetery in Bandung.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:20 WIB
South Sumatra Police Renovate Resident's Home for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day
The South Sumatra Regional Police have inaugurated a home renovation programme and distributed social assistance in South OKU Regency to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The initiative aims to provide decent housing and strengthen ties between the police and the community. Police officials emphasised that their role extends beyond security to include tangible social contributions that improve residents' welfare.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:20 WIB
Underinvoicing and Money Laundering in the Face of Modern Corporate Crime
An opinion piece examines underinvoicing and transfer pricing in Indonesia's CPO export sector, referencing recent government detection of suspected practices involving companies such as Salim Ivomas. It explains the legal distinctions between underinvoicing and transfer pricing, and situates these practices within the broader framework of white-collar and corporate crime. The article highlights the significant economic impact of such non-violent financial crimes on the state and society.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:18 WIB
TASPEN distributes humanitarian aid for residents affected by Flores earthquake
State-owned pension fund PT TASPEN has distributed Rp155 million worth of aid, including 400 food packages, generators, tarpaulins and medicines, to communities affected by the earthquake in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. The assistance was handed over symbolically through the Ngada Family Association in Kupang for distribution to affected residents, particularly in Riung, Ngada Regency. TASPEN also confirmed it is supporting 90,110 pension and active participants in the affected area to ensure they continue to receive their entitled benefits.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:17 WIB
TASPEN Provides Aid for NTT Earthquake Victims
State-owned pension fund PT TASPEN has distributed humanitarian aid worth Rp 155 million to victims of the 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara. The assistance includes food packages, generators, tarpaulins and medicines for around 450 displaced people. TASPEN also confirmed that approximately 90,110 of its pension and active participants in the affected area will continue to receive their entitled benefits.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:16 WIB
Indonesian Stocks Rise 0.73% as Prabowo's Growth, Investment Targets Lift Sentiment
Indonesian equities advanced in early trading as investors responded positively to President Prabowo Subianto's state-of-the-nation address, which highlighted strong investment realisation, job creation, and food self-sufficiency. Analysts noted that the government's targets for 6% economic growth, B50 biodiesel implementation, and state-owned enterprise restructuring could support banking, consumer, industrial, and construction sectors. The positive domestic sentiment contrasted with weaker global markets amid Middle East tensions and uncertainty over US monetary policy.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:15 WIB
Indonesia's Coal Reference Price (HBA) for Second Period of August 2026 Rises on Average
Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has set the Coal Reference Price (HBA) for the second period of August 2026, with most coal categories recording increases. The highest-calorie coal category saw a slight decline, while HBA I, II, and III all rose compared to the first period of August 2026.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:14 WIB
BI: Indonesia's External Debt Reaches US$453.4 Billion in Q2-2026, Growing 4.4%
Bank Indonesia reported that Indonesia's external debt position stood at US$453.4 billion in the second quarter of 2026, growing 4.4% year-on-year. The increase was driven by public sector borrowing, while private external debt continued to contract at a slower pace. The central bank emphasised that the debt structure remains healthy, with long-term debt accounting for 82.1% of the total and a debt-to-GDP ratio of 30.6%.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:14 WIB
Batam investment realisation reaches 55.67 percent of Rp70 trillion target
Investment realisation in Batam reached Rp38.97 trillion in the first half of 2026, equivalent to 55.67 percent of the annual target of Rp70 trillion, according to the Batam Business Agency (BP Batam). The figure reflects strengthening business confidence, with employment in the city rising by 32.16 percent year-on-year to 40,943 workers. BP Batam officials emphasised that investment growth must be matched by improved public services, business certainty and infrastructure development.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:13 WIB
On 81st Independence Day, Trade Ministry Distributes Rp250 Million for NTT Earthquake Victims
The Ministry of Trade has handed over Rp250 million in aid to communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) as part of its Kemendag Peduli programme. Minister Budi Santoso also reported that four markets were damaged, including Pasar Inpres Ruteng in Manggarai, and that the ministry is coordinating with local authorities to ensure the safety of traders and the continuity of essential goods distribution.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:13 WIB
Rupiah Today 18 August 2026: Strengthens to Rp17,798 per US Dollar
The Indonesian rupiah opened stronger against the US dollar on Tuesday morning, gaining 29 points to trade at Rp17,798. The appreciation was attributed to positive market response to President Prabowo Subianto's 2027 State Budget speech. Market participants continue to monitor global and domestic economic developments for further direction.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:13 WIB
BPK Urges Ministry of Law to Adopt ESG and Government 5.0
The Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) has called on the Ministry of Law to embrace Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles and transition towards Government 5.0, including the use of artificial intelligence. The recommendation was made as BPK handed over its audit report on the ministry's financial statements. BPK emphasised that such transformation is essential for achieving the Indonesia Emas 2045 vision through sustainable development and accountable governance.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:11 WIB
IHSG Opens Sharply Higher as Market Responds Positively to 6 Percent Economic Growth Target
The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened higher on Tuesday, extending gains as investors responded positively to the government's 6 percent economic growth target for 2027. Market participants are also awaiting Bank Indonesia's policy meeting and key economic data releases this week. External sentiment remains cautious due to Middle East tensions and mixed signals from US markets.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:10 WIB
Aceh fishermen urged to protect peace as a divine blessing
Aceh's customary maritime authority, Panglima Laot, has called on fishermen to observe Indonesia's Independence Day by staying ashore for prayer and reflection, in line with long-standing local tradition. The authority also urged communities to safeguard peace and mutual protection amid ongoing recovery from hydrometeorological disasters. Fishermen expressed hope that central and provincial governments will continue providing support as economic pressures mount.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:10 WIB
Can Indonesian Credit Cards Be Used Abroad? Here's Bank Indonesia's Explanation
Bank Indonesia has clarified that the Indonesian Credit Card (KKI) retail segment can be used for all types of purchases at merchants accepting QRIS domestically, and abroad through the QRIS Cross Border scheme in partner countries including Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Japan, South Korea and China. Seven banks have been appointed as first movers in the initial implementation phase, with the card processed entirely through domestic payment infrastructure. The maximum interest rate for KKI follows existing credit card regulations at 1.75% per month or 21% per year.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:09 WIB
Details Emerge from Closed-Door Hamas–Jared Kushner Meeting That Has Israel Worried
New details have emerged about a high-level meeting between a Hamas delegation and US special envoy Jared Kushner in El Alamein, Egypt. The talks focused on implementation mechanisms for the second phase of the Gaza agreement rather than renegotiating the existing deal. Hamas stressed that the agreed framework is not open to renegotiation and that it is now awaiting Israel's official response.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:08 WIB
Pramono Reveals Rp 3.8 Billion for NTT Earthquake Victims from Jakarta Civil Servants' Fundraising
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung announced that the provincial government has dispatched health workers and Rp 3.8 billion in aid for earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara. The funds were raised voluntarily by Jakarta's civil servants. Pramono has also requested corporate social responsibility contributions from regional-owned enterprises to support the disaster response.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:06 WIB
SPN Polda Metro Jaya distributes educational aid to high-achieving students
The State Police School (SPN) of Polda Metro Jaya has provided educational assistance to 33 high-achieving students from communities around SPN Lido, Bogor Regency, West Java, as part of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day commemorations. The aid targets primary, junior and senior high school students with academic or non-academic achievements. Police officials said the initiative reflects the institution's commitment to supporting local communities and motivating young people to excel.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:05 WIB
BTN (BBTN) Completes Transfer of Credit Assets from SMBC Indonesia
PT Bank Tabungan Negara (Persero) Tbk. has finalised the conditional loan asset transfer from PT Bank SMBC Indonesia Tbk., completing the transaction on 14 August 2026. The transferred assets include loans related to pensioners and pre-retirement customers managed by ASABRI and other pension funds, as well as loans for active employees. BTN expects the acquisition to boost its total assets and credit portfolio, supporting future business growth.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:02 WIB
UI Patriot Expedition Team builds Wondama Patriot Bridge for 81st Independence Day
The University of Indonesia's Patriot Expedition Team, together with local residents, has constructed the UI Wondama Patriot Bridge in Teluk Wondama, West Papua, as part of the 81st Independence Day commemorations. The project falls under the Transmigration Ministry's Bakti Transmigrasi programme and aims to improve mobility and support social and economic activity in the transmigration area. The Minister of Transmigration praised the initiative as a concrete example of gotong royong and the Transformation of Transmigration.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:02 WIB
Amran: Food Agency Distributes Rp 100 Billion in Aid for NTT Earthquake Victims
Agriculture Minister and National Food Agency head Andi Amran Sulaiman has announced that Rp 100 billion in food aid has been dispatched to earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara. The minister plans to visit the affected area to personally oversee the distribution and post-disaster handling. He stressed that humanitarian considerations took precedence over administrative procedures, with rice supplies already being delivered through Bulog.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:00 WIB
State Secretary Says Independence Festivities Should Not Only Be Felt at the Palace and Monas
State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has announced that the government is expanding Independence Day celebrations to 40 locations across Jakarta, including densely populated neighbourhoods, to make the event more inclusive. The initiative reflects President Prabowo Subianto's message that independence belongs to all Indonesians, not just those attending central ceremonies. Activities include traditional competitions, music stages, local SME bazaars, free health checks, and distribution of basic food packages.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 10:00 WIB
Independence in the AI Era: Ruang Damai Warns of Digital Polarisation Threat
A national webinar held by Ruang Damai on 17 August 2026 discussed how independence in the age of artificial intelligence must encompass freedom of thought amid algorithmic information flows. Speakers warned that identity differences are increasingly exploited to deepen digital polarisation, and called for digital inclusivity and cross-identity collaboration. The discussion brought together academics and community groups to explore tolerance and social cohesion in the technological era.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 09:59 WIB
Marking 81st Independence Day, KDM Ensures Basic Services for the Public Are Optimised
West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi used the province's 81st Independence Day ceremony to apologise for the fact that over 80,000 residents still lack electricity, despite the province being a major energy producer. He pledged to refocus the regional budget on basic services and called on all state officials to prioritise public welfare over personal demands.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 09:59 WIB
PJJ and WFH in Jakarta Today, Pramono: Central Government Directive
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has stated that the implementation of distance learning (PJJ) for schools and work-from-home (WFH) arrangements for civil servants on Tuesday is a follow-up to a central government directive. He said the Jakarta provincial government is obliged to implement the policy without questioning its background. The policy was formalised through a circular from the Jakarta Education Office issued on 15 August 2026.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 09:58 WIB
Pertamina NRE optimises Sembur Island solar power plant to develop Red and White cooperative programme
Pertamina New & Renewable Energy and the Ministry of Cooperatives are optimising a 1 MWp solar power plant with 1 MWh battery storage on Sembur Island, Batam, to support around 200 households and local economic activities. The project includes a 4-tonne-per-day ice factory and cold storage to help fishing communities preserve their catch. The facility was used for the first time to power an Independence Day flag ceremony on the island.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 09:58 WIB
Proud Parent Watches Sekolah Rakyat Student Perform at the Palace
A student from a Sekolah Rakyat school in Polewali Mandar, West Sulawesi, was selected for the national flag-raising squad and performed at the Merdeka Palace during Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations. Her mother expressed pride and emotion at seeing her daughter serve before President Prabowo Subianto. The achievement highlights the potential of students from the government's Sekolah Rakyat programme to compete at the national level.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 09:58 WIB
When Will the Rp5 Million Incentive for Electric Motorcycle Purchases Be Launched? Here's the Industry Minister's Explanation
Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita has stated that the Rp5 million electric motorcycle incentive programme is still awaiting the issuance of a Finance Ministry regulation. The Industry Ministry is technically ready to implement the scheme, but the timeline depends entirely on the Finance Ministry. The programme, proposed by Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, is expected to cover around 6 million motorcycles in its initial phase.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 09:58 WIB
On Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, Sidkon Djampi Urges Pesantren and Santri to Become a National Strength
West Java DPRD member Sidkon Djampi has called for pesantren and their students to play a greater role in national development as Indonesia marks 81 years of independence. He emphasised the need for santri to acquire modern competencies in technology, entrepreneurship, and leadership alongside religious education. Djampi also urged pesantren to embrace digital transformation and develop productive business units to achieve economic self-reliance.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 09:57 WIB
Top stories: 81st Indonesian Independence Day to BI launching Indonesian Credit Card
President Prabowo Subianto led the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace, while Bank Indonesia launched the Indonesian Credit Card for the general public. The round-up also covers international condolences and aid offers following the NTT earthquake, and a congratulatory message from Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 09:57 WIB
Food stocks secure after East Nusa Tenggara Quake, Bulog says
Indonesia's state logistics agency Bulog has confirmed that East Nusa Tenggara holds between 35,000 and 37,000 metric tons of rice, sufficient for immediate earthquake relief operations. The agency is distributing rice and subsidised cooking oil to affected areas while preparing backup shipments from neighbouring provinces to overcome logistical challenges. Bulog began dispatching emergency aid before formal requests were made to ensure evacuees in temporary shelters received prompt assistance.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 09:56 WIB
Active Grenade Found by Scavenger in Bekasi, Suspected British-Made
Police in Bekasi, West Java, are investigating the discovery of an active hand grenade found by a scavenger in Tambun Selatan. The explosive device, suspected to be of British manufacture, has been evacuated by the bomb squad for safe disposal. Authorities have urged the public to report any similar suspicious objects immediately.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 09:56 WIB
Nusantara textiles become symbol of unity for Indonesian diaspora in Abu Dhabi
The Indonesian Embassy in Abu Dhabi celebrated the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence with a flag ceremony where diaspora members wore traditional attire and Nusantara textiles from across the archipelago. Ambassador Judha Nugraha highlighted that this diversity reflects Indonesia's strength and serves as a bridge to bring Indonesia closer to the UAE and international community. The event also marked 50 years of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and the UAE.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 09:56 WIB
PMHU Number 2 of 2026, Legal Ideals and Indonesian Legal Reasoning
The issuance of Minister of Hajj and Umrah Regulation Number 2 of 2026 on business standards for special Hajj and Umrah travel must be understood within the framework of Pancasila as the state's philosophical foundation. The authors argue that the regulation should be assessed not only on formal legal authority but also on substantive justice, proportionality, and alignment with the legal ideals of Pancasila. They contend that regulatory power must serve higher legal objectives, ensuring fairness for both pilgrims and business operators.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 09:55 WIB
The Role of the Upstream Oil and Gas Industry in Regional Development and Economy
Indonesia's upstream oil and gas industry remains a vital driver of regional development, particularly for producing regions, through revenue-sharing mechanisms and local economic spillovers. Despite a declining relative share of national revenue compared to the 1970s oil boom era, oil and gas revenue-sharing funds still account for a significant portion of regional budgets in provinces such as Riau, West Papua, South Sumatra, and East Kalimantan. The industry also supports local business growth, job creation, and social infrastructure through corporate responsibility programmes.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 09:52 WIB
Bulog Prepares 10 Tonnes of Rice Daily at Kupang Port and Airport for Distribution to NTT Earthquake Victims
State logistics agency Bulog has positioned 10 tonnes of rice daily at Kupang's port and airport to accelerate aid distribution to earthquake-affected areas in East Nusa Tenggara. The agency is prioritising motorcycle transport where roads are damaged and will coordinate with the national disaster agency for air and sea support. The strategy draws on lessons from previous disasters in Sumatra.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 09:50 WIB
West Manggarai Police Distribute Food Packages to Hundreds of Longos Island Evacuees
Following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, hundreds of residents from Longos Island remain displaced in hilly areas. West Manggarai Police have delivered essential supplies, including food packages, clean water, and baby necessities, to 322 families across ten emergency settlements. Police are also compiling data on further needs such as medicines, formula milk, and sanitation facilities to coordinate with local government for follow-up assistance.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 09:48 WIB
South Jakarta District Court holds pretrial hearing for Febrie Adriansyah over forced seizure
The South Jakarta District Court has begun pretrial proceedings for former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah, who is challenging the legality of forced seizure measures. Two separate pretrial motions have been filed, one against the Attorney General's Office and another against the National Police's anti-corruption unit. The hearings are scheduled for 18–19 August 2026.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 09:48 WIB
Pramono Says Student Killed After Being Run Over by Truck in East Jakarta Was Caused by Slippery Road
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has attributed the death of a teenage student who was run over by a Jakarta Environmental and Hygiene Agency truck in Kramat Jati to slippery road conditions. He has instructed relevant officials, including the mayor and Satpol PP, to address wet road surfaces to prevent similar accidents. The victim was reportedly on his way to attend the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony when the incident occurred.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 09:47 WIB
Odd! Weak Dollar Leaves Asian Currencies Anxious; Only Won-Ringgit Stand Firm
Most Asian currencies weakened against the US dollar on Tuesday despite the greenback's decline, as fragile market sentiment persisted amid global uncertainty. The South Korean won and Malaysian ringgit were the notable exceptions, posting gains. Rising geopolitical risks in the Middle East and elevated oil prices kept investors cautious.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 09:46 WIB
Calling for the Killing of Dozens of Gazans Every Night: The Kahanist Ideology Embraced by Ben-Gvir
Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has sparked international condemnation after urging the killing of 30 to 40 Palestinians in Gaza every night through targeted assassinations. The far-right minister, a follower of the extremist Kahanist movement, openly disagreed with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the reduced intensity of strikes on the Palestinian territory. Ben-Gvir first gained public attention in 1995 when he stole the hood ornament from Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin's Cadillac, weeks before Rabin was assassinated by a Jewish far-right nationalist.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 09:45 WIB
Indonesia's 81st Independence Day in Tokyo: Ambassador Kartini Urges Indonesians to Maintain Friendship with Japan
The Indonesian Embassy in Tokyo marked the 81st anniversary of Indonesia's independence with a solemn ceremony and community gathering. Ambassador Nurmala Kartini Sjahrir led the event, which included the presentation of long-service medals to embassy staff. The ambassador called on Indonesian citizens in Japan to continue nurturing the strong friendship between the two nations.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 09:45 WIB
Public Affairs Notes on the 81st Anniversary of Indonesian Independence
An opinion piece argues that Indonesia faces three structural problems: political financing, political regeneration, and fiscal decentralisation. The author contends that cuts to regional transfer funds are straining central-regional relations and eroding public trust, with knock-on effects for the business environment.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 09:42 WIB
Antam Gold Price Rises, Here Is Its Projection for the Coming Week
The price of gold produced by state miner Aneka Tambang (Antam) increased by Rp18,000 to Rp2,695,000 per gram on Tuesday, with the buyback price also rising. The article provides the complete official price list for various gold weights and notes applicable tax rates for purchases and buybacks.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 09:41 WIB
Stung by Haji Isam Acquisition Rumour, BYAN Shares Soar 18.75%
Shares of coal miner PT Bayan Resources Tbk (BYAN) surged 18.75% following rumours that businessman Haji Isam is preparing to acquire a controlling stake. The stock has climbed 42.12% over the past week, lifting the company's market capitalisation to Rp496.55 trillion. Isam's listed company, PT Jhonlin Agro Raya Tbk, has scheduled an extraordinary general meeting, though its agenda has not been disclosed.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 09:41 WIB
Viral: Travel Driver Strikes Deputy Police Chief in Samarinda Ulu While Officer Helps Trapped Motorcyclist
A travel driver in Samarinda, East Kalimantan, has gone viral after striking a deputy police chief who was helping to evacuate a motorcyclist trapped under his vehicle following a collision. The driver, identified as TS, tested positive for methamphetamine use and was found with drug paraphernalia in his car. Police are continuing their investigation into the incident.
Tue, 18 Aug 2026, 09:41 WIB
IHSG Opens Higher on 18 August 2026, Rising to 6,448
The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened higher on Tuesday morning, gaining 46.94 points or 0.73 percent to reach 6,448.83. The LQ45 index of blue-chip stocks also advanced, rising 0.45 percent to 635.11. Market participants are monitoring trading volumes and the rupiah exchange rate, with global and regional conditions expected to influence the index through the second session.