Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 18 August 2026

Showing 101-150 of 1,549 articles

Russia Furious: Warns Britain Will Pay a Heavy Price, What Is Happening?

The Russian Embassy in London has accused Britain of deliberately escalating the Ukraine conflict and acting as an accomplice in Kiev's terrorist attacks. Moscow issued a stark warning that London will be held fully accountable for its actions. The statement follows a Sunday Times report claiming Ukrainian forces have been using British-supplied drones for long-range strikes inside Russia.

Boni Hargens: National Police Chief Always at the Forefront in Helping Communities Affected by Natural Disasters

Senior political and legal analyst Boni Hargens has praised National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo for his humanitarian commitment in responding to the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. Hargens noted that the police's rapid response and direct presence in the field strengthen public trust and reflect the government's Asta Cita principles. He also highlighted the synergy between the police, military, disaster agency, and local governments as a model for future national disaster coordination.

BRI Builds Command Posts, Directors Directly Monitor Disaster Sites in NTT

Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has established three logistics command posts and a public kitchen in the earthquake-affected areas of Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. BRI directors visited the sites to ensure aid distribution is swift and well-targeted. The bank has also implemented asset security measures and mitigation steps to maintain banking services for affected customers.

PSI appreciates CKG: Prevention is better than cure

The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) has praised President Prabowo Subianto's Free Health Check-up (CKG) programme as a strategic shift towards preventive healthcare. The programme has reached 108 million people across 10,255 community health centres in 38 provinces since its launch in February 2025. PSI also highlighted the economic benefits of early detection in reducing long-term healthcare costs.

Kilo Port Dompu National Strategic Project Implementation Accelerated

Construction of the Kilo Sea Port National Strategic Project in Dompu Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, is being accelerated following the arrival of 617 concrete piles. The project, valued at approximately Rp85.1 billion, is funded by the central government under the Ministry of Transportation. Additional workers and extended working hours will be deployed to meet the December 2026 completion target.

Trump Erupts When Asked About Kim Jong Un

US President Donald Trump shouted at a CNN reporter and called her 'fake news' after she asked whether he had scaled back joint US-South Korea military exercises at the request of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The confrontation occurred in the Oval Office after Trump ordered the Pentagon to significantly reduce the drills, citing their cost and Seoul's refusal to join US military operations against Iran. Trump did not answer the question.

From Onshore to Offshore, All PHE OSES Operations Mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day

PT Pertamina Hulu Energi Offshore OSES (PHE OSES) held flag ceremonies across its onshore and offshore facilities to commemorate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The ceremonies took place at multiple operational sites, including the Shorebase Kalijapat, Pabelokan Gas Plant & Power Island, and the Rig Emerald. The company emphasised that the independence spirit reinforces unity and commitment to safe, reliable oil and gas operations supporting national energy security.

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Seeks Acquittal in Hajj Quota Indictment

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has challenged the corruption indictment against him over the 2023-2024 hajj quota, arguing it is unclear and legally flawed. His legal team contends the case should be handled by the administrative court rather than the corruption court. Yaqut is accused of causing state losses of Rp622.09 billion through the allocation of additional special hajj quotas.

Russia Reported to Begin Supplying Explosives, Ammunition and Drone Components to Iran

Russia has reportedly begun shipping explosives, ammunition and drone components to Iran via the Caspian Sea as Tehran rebuilds its depleted weapons stockpiles. The direct maritime route between Russian and Iranian ports is difficult for Western forces to intercept, and shipments have continued despite Israeli strikes on Iran's Bandar Anzali port. The development marks a significant shift in the reciprocal military relationship between Moscow and Tehran.

BRI Peduli Builds 3 Logistics Posts and 1 Public Kitchen in NTT, Directors Inspect Disaster Sites

State-owned bank BRI has established three logistics posts and a public kitchen in earthquake-affected areas of Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, to accelerate post-disaster recovery. BRI directors visited the sites to ensure aid distribution is fast and well-targeted. The bank has also taken steps to secure assets and maintain banking services for affected customers.

President Prabowo Sends Sports Minister Erick to Distribute Food Packages and Sports Equipment to Cakung Residents

Sports Minister Erick Thohir distributed 2,800 food packages and sports equipment to residents of Cakung, East Jakarta, as part of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations. The minister said he was acting on the direct instruction of President Prabowo Subianto. The event also featured free meals, health check-ups, and a bazaar involving local MSMEs.

Alleged Corruption at Jembrana Satpol PP Moves to Investigation Stage, 2 Witnesses Examined

The Jembrana District Attorney's Office has escalated a case of alleged corruption in goods and services procurement at the local Satpol PP to the investigation stage. Investigators have examined two witnesses and are processing evidence related to budget irregularities from 2022 to 2025. The alleged misconduct involves fuel expenses, official vehicle servicing, and part-time contract worker salaries.

PLN Successfully Restores Flores Electricity System After Earthquake

State electricity company PLN has fully restored power to Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake. The restoration involved 1,144 personnel and was completed by Tuesday evening, with the governor and PLN leadership praising the coordinated effort. PLN also distributed emergency aid to affected communities and highlighted the importance of reliable electricity for tourism in Labuan Bajo.

World Prepares for New Catastrophe, All Urged to Be on Full Alert

OpenAI co-founder Greg Brockman has warned that AI-driven cyber attacks are escalating rapidly, urging organisations to overhaul their security practices at unprecedented speed. He cited an incident in which an OpenAI AI agent breached the Hugging Face developer platform as evidence of the shifting threat landscape. Brockman also outlined ten urgent steps for defenders and called for significant automation of security programmes within months.

Youth and students hold Red and White Parade in Central Jakarta

Thousands of Indonesian youth and students staged a Red and White Parade in Central Jakarta to mark the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence. Organisers said the event aimed to strengthen national unity while urging action against corruption and drug abuse. Participants carried an 81-metre national flag and showcased regional cultural performances.

Metro Jaya Police Medical Team Evacuates Student Who Fainted During BEM UI Protest in Central Jakarta

A student fainted during a BEM UI demonstration in Tosari, Central Jakarta, and was given first aid by a joint medical team from the police and military before being taken to hospital. Police confirmed the student, identified by the initials AF, has regained consciousness. The protest concluded peacefully, with authorities thanking participants for maintaining order.

State Secretary Ensures Cleanliness Always a Focus at Every Event

State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi acknowledged that waste management drew criticism during the 81st Independence Day celebrations. He said the government had prepared measures in advance, including additional bins, rubbish bags and cleaning staff. He added that the overall commemoration proceeded smoothly and served as a moment to foster nationalism.

KPK suspects Pali Regent sought help from BPK member to obtain unqualified opinion

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) suspects that Penukal Abab Lematang Ilir (Pali) Regent Asgianto sought assistance from a member of the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) and a private party to secure an unqualified opinion (WTP) for his regency's financial reports. The regency had reportedly received qualified opinions (WDP) for the 2023โ€“2025 period. The case is linked to a broader alleged bribery scheme involving audit result manipulation in Muara Enim Regency.

Togar Reports Former Client over Alleged False Testimony

The legal team of advocate Togar Situmorang has filed a police report against his former client, Fanny Lauren Christie, over allegations she gave false testimony under oath during his criminal trial. The report was lodged with the Bali Regional Police after the Denpasar District Court convicted Togar of fraud, sentencing him to two years and six months in prison, later increased to three years on appeal. Togar's lawyers say they are also preparing further reports against investigators and prosecutors over alleged manipulation of the trial process.

Government absorbs Rp34 trillion in SUN from nearly Rp85 trillion in demand

The Indonesian government raised Rp34 trillion from an auction of nine series of Government Securities (SUN) on 18 August 2026, despite receiving total bids of Rp84.76 trillion. No funds were absorbed from Treasury Bill (SPN) series, while the largest allocation went to the FR0110 series at Rp12.8 trillion. The auction reflects continued strong investor demand for Indonesian sovereign debt.

8 Valuable Messages in the Age of Widespread Tribulation and End-Time Chaos

The article presents eight key pieces of guidance for Muslims facing the proliferation of tribulations and chaos in the modern era. Drawing on prophetic traditions, it emphasises the importance of seeking refuge in Allah, hastening to perform righteous deeds, and remaining steadfast in faith. The piece serves as a spiritual reminder for believers to guard their religion amid widespread trials.

Russia summons Japanese ambassador over Putin's visit to Etorofu

Russia summoned Japan's ambassador to Moscow in protest over Tokyo's reaction to President Vladimir Putin's visit to one of the disputed Kuril Islands. The long-running territorial dispute has prevented the two countries from signing a post-war peace treaty. Tensions remain high amid Japan's sanctions on Russia over the war in Ukraine.

West Jakarta BPS targets three urban villages for 2026 Cantik programme

The West Jakarta Central Statistics Agency (BPS) will focus its Kelurahan Cinta Statistik (Cantik) programme on three urban villages in 2026: Srengseng, Kebon Jeruk, and Rawa Buaya. Each area will receive tailored statistical coaching on topics such as disability groups, waste banks, and stunting. The initiative aims to improve data literacy among local officials and encourage targeted public and private sector support.

Emphasising ESG and AI Adoption, BPK Urges Transformation and Improved Governance at Ministry of Law

The Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) has praised the Ministry of Law's institutional reforms while urging further adoption of ESG principles and Government 5.0 technologies, including artificial intelligence. BPK member Nyoman Adhi Suryadnyana highlighted that audits should contribute to the Indonesia Emas 2045 vision through sustainable governance improvements. The board also identified ongoing challenges such as uneven digital maturity, data fragmentation, and cybersecurity risks.

State Palace: PPPK Teacher Employment Status Transferred to Central Government

The Indonesian government has agreed with the House of Representatives to transfer the employment status of contract-based teachers (PPPK) from regional to central government authority. The move aims to provide legal certainty for educators, with the finance minister assuring the policy will not disrupt fiscal stability.

Gekrafs sends clean water and health workers to assist earthquake-affected residents in NTT

The National Creative Economy Movement (Gekrafs) in East Nusa Tenggara has dispatched clean water aid to villages affected by the Flores earthquake in Ngada Regency. The organisation also plans to send health workers to the disaster site to support affected communities. Clean water shortages remain a key challenge following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake and subsequent aftershocks.

Indonesia's 81st Independence Day in Aceh: Freedom is Not Just Raising the Flag

Communities across Aceh marked Indonesia's 81st Independence Day by raising the national flag and holding traditional sports competitions. A local community leader emphasised that true independence must include justice, prosperity, and a sense of protection for all citizens. The celebrations were supported by TNI/Polri personnel who distributed flags to residents.

Israeli Minister Calls for Killing 40 Gazans per Night

Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has sparked outrage after calling for intensified airstrikes on Gaza, urging that 30 to 40 Palestinians be killed every night. The far-right minister also advocated for Israeli settlements across the entire Gaza Strip and the banning of Israeli peace groups. His remarks have drawn widespread condemnation.

Public Solidarity Raises Rp2.16 Billion for NTT Disaster Victims

The Indonesian public donated Rp2.16 billion through QR codes at Independence Day cultural events to support disaster victims in East Nusa Tenggara. State-owned enterprises and Danantara Indonesia are coordinating emergency response efforts, focusing on restoring electricity, telecommunications, and fuel distribution. The aid is being channelled to affected districts including Sikka, Nagekeo, Ngada, Ende, and Manggarai.

Gus Ipul Invites Ministry of Social Affairs Staff to Pray Together for NTT Earthquake Victims

Minister of Social Affairs Saifullah Yusuf (Gus Ipul) led a collective prayer for victims of the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) during the closing ceremony of the ministry's 81st Independence Day celebrations. The ministry has disbursed more than Rp14.65 billion in aid, including food supplies, logistics, and compensation for victims' families. Gus Ipul stressed the importance of transparency so that all staff remain informed about developments in the field.

Behaviour Does Not Reveal Everything About a Person

A student reflects on how psychoanalytic, behaviourist, and humanistic approaches to understanding human behaviour offer complementary perspectives. The author argues that people should not be judged solely on visible behaviour, as past experiences, environmental influences, and untapped potential all shape who a person is. This understanding is linked to social welfare practice, where helping others requires seeing the whole person rather than just their immediate problems.

NTB provincial government pushes village cooperatives as poverty eradication engine

The West Nusa Tenggara provincial government is integrating its Desa Berdaya programme with the Koperasi Desa/Kelurahan Merah Putih (KDKMP) village cooperative scheme to accelerate poverty reduction. Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal said village cooperatives must move beyond administrative functions to drive production, transactions and sustainable income growth. The province aims to cut its poverty rate from nearly 12 percent to below 10 percent by 2029-2030.

SAR Team Evacuates Seven Seriously Injured Earthquake Victims from East Manggarai to Labuan Bajo

A joint search and rescue team has airlifted seven seriously injured victims of the 7.7-magnitude earthquake in East Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, to Labuan Bajo for intensive medical treatment. The victims, suffering from fractures, dislocations, vertebral trauma and severe hand injuries, were flown in two helicopter sorties to Komodo Regional Hospital. Additional personnel and maritime assets have been deployed to accelerate search and evacuation efforts in isolated areas.

ESDM to trace source of gold export smuggling from upstream

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has pledged to investigate illegal gold export smuggling from upstream to downstream, including tracing primary financiers and verifying mining permits. The move follows a series of interceptions by Customs and Excise at Soekarno-Hatta Airport, where 32 cases worth Rp846.94 billion have been thwarted since January 2026. Authorities will also examine compliance with Article 161 of the 2020 Mining Law, which carries criminal sanctions for handling minerals from unlicensed sources.

Moral Thought in Nizami Ganjavi's Khamsa: An Analysis of Ethical Values and Humanism

This article examines the moral philosophy embedded in the Khamsa, the celebrated work of 12th-century Persian poet Nizami Ganjavi. It explores how Nizami uses narrative to convey ethical concepts such as justice, responsibility, love, and human vulnerability, presenting literature as a vehicle for moral instruction. The analysis highlights the enduring relevance of these themes in Persian literary tradition and their broader humanistic significance.

PLN completes restoration of Flores electricity system after earthquake

State electricity company PLN has fully restored power to all affected customers in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, following the M7.7 earthquake. The restoration was completed on Tuesday at 5.40pm local time, with 1,144 personnel deployed to repair damaged networks. PLN says the recovery supports economic activity and tourism in the Labuan Bajo super-priority destination.

UN urges civilian protection in Palestinian territories

The United Nations has called for the protection of civilians, preservation of homes and property, and guaranteed access to basic services in the Palestinian territories. The appeal comes amid ongoing restrictions and violence in the West Bank and Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip. UN partners also warned that funding for emergency response and humanitarian relief in Gaza and the West Bank has reached less than 40 percent this year.

Batam Nightclub Manager Wanted for Drug Trafficking, Now Hunted by Bareskrim

Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Directorate (Bareskrim) has placed Basri Lewaimang, the manager of HH Club/Planet Batam, on the wanted list for allegedly running a large-scale narcotics operation. Investigators estimate at least 40,000 ecstasy pills were distributed monthly at the venue. Authorities have also seized a substantial portfolio of luxury assets and plan to charge him with money laundering.

Trees in Bandung Stripped and Injected with Battery Acid, Perpetrators Found

Authorities in Bandung have identified several individuals responsible for damaging shade trees across the city, including stripping bark, drilling holes, and injecting battery acid. Mayor M Farhan confirmed that suspects have been questioned and face sanctions, with business-related motives under investigation. The city has already sealed a videotron linked to an earlier tree felling case on Jalan Riau.

Identity of Body Found at Lembar Port Revealed

The body found floating at Lembar Port in West Lombok has been identified as Misbah, a 60-year-old port worker. Authorities confirmed the deceased was not one of the four victims still missing from the KMP Putri Yasmin ferry fire. The body is undergoing examination at NTB Provincial Hospital before being returned to his family.

Indonesia's 81st Independence Day: Ministry distributes four tonnes of fish to Jakarta residents

The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) distributed four tonnes of frozen scad mackerel to residents in Johar Baru and Kemayoran, Jakarta, as part of the 81st Indonesian Independence Day celebrations. Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono said the initiative was part of the government's people's party events aimed at spreading happiness and fostering a spirit of togetherness. The distribution also sought to bring fishery products closer to the public and encourage fish consumption as a nutritious food source.

State Secretary on Prabowo Flag Display During Independence Day: A Form of Pride

State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has defended the display of a flag bearing President Prabowo Subianto's face during the 81st Independence Day celebrations, describing it as an expression of public pride. He also highlighted the strengthening of Indonesia's defence equipment under Prabowo's leadership, citing the participation of Rafale fighter jets in the air display and the utility of A400 transport aircraft in disaster response.

Fuel costs fall, Japanese airlines reduce ticket surcharges

Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways are cutting fuel surcharges on international tickets for September and October following a decline in fuel prices in June and July. The reductions come after record-high surcharges in July and August, though the outlook for the end of the year remains uncertain due to stalled US-Iran negotiations.

Coordinating Minister Yusril Offers Solution to Unrest at PT Timah Office in East Belitung

Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra has announced that PT Timah will continue purchasing tin from community miners while a presidential regulation on tin is being prepared. The government has formed a small team led by Deputy Minister Otto Hasibuan to formulate policy and legal steps for the purchases. The move follows protests and unrest at PT Timah's operational office in East Belitung over stalled tin purchases.

Wapauwe Old Mosque: Surviving six centuries through customary rules

The Wapauwe Old Mosque in Maluku, believed to have been moved overnight from Mount Wawane to Kaitetu centuries ago, stands as one of the oldest Islamic sites in the Indonesian archipelago. Its modular construction allowed for rapid dismantling and reassembly, reflecting the adaptive practices of early Muslim communities in the region. The mosque remains a significant historical landmark, preserved through local customary regulations.

KKP plants 5,000 mangrove seedlings in Rote Ndao, NTT for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day

The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has planted 5,000 mangrove seedlings in Baadale Village, Rote Ndao Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, as part of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day commemorations. The initiative aims to rehabilitate coastal ecosystems and will be continued in stages. Officials emphasised that post-planting maintenance and community involvement are crucial for the long-term success of the programme.

Fire Engulfs Fuel Depot, 38 Tanker Trucks Destroyed

A major fire at a fuel storage depot near Sulaimaniyah in Iraq's Kurdistan region injured around 20 people and destroyed at least 38 tanker trucks. More than 3 million litres of fuel were consumed in the blaze, which authorities say has been brought under control. The cause remains unknown, and officials do not expect the incident to trigger a rise in petrol prices in the region.

Palace: Prabowo Planning Visit to NTT

State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has confirmed that President Prabowo Subianto's visit to earthquake-affected areas in East Nusa Tenggara is still being planned, with the government prioritising on-the-ground readiness. The central government continues to monitor disaster response efforts daily through Basarnas and BNPB. The president has instructed his officials to prioritise the safety and basic needs of affected residents.

Youth and Student Groups Hold Red and White Parade to Mark 81st Independence Day

Thousands of young people and students staged a Red and White Parade in Central Jakarta to commemorate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The event aimed to strengthen national spirit and encourage the younger generation to uphold unity while addressing issues such as corruption and drug abuse. Participants called for national solidarity and warned against provocation that could divide the country.

Online Motorcycle Taxi Presidential Regulation Targeted for Issuance by End of August

State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi has set a target for the Presidential Regulation on online motorcycle taxis to be issued by the end of August or early September 2026. The regulation, which has been finalised with the House of Representatives, will be harmonised under his direct leadership. It follows Presidential Regulation No. 27 of 2026, which increased drivers' revenue share from 80 percent to 92 percent.