Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 18 August 2026

Showing 1,451-1,500 of 1,549 articles

China Offers Condolences and Aid Following NTT Earthquake

The Chinese government has expressed deep condolences over the earthquake that struck Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara, and has offered assistance to Indonesia. Beijing is also attending to Chinese nationals injured in the disaster, with its consulate in Denpasar activating emergency mechanisms. The offer adds to international sympathy as Indonesian authorities continue emergency response efforts.

Ceuta Tragedy: Successfully Crossing the Border Ends in a Graveyard

More than two weeks after tens of thousands of people stormed the Morocco-Spain border, the human cost of the Ceuta migration wave is becoming clearer. Over 60 graves have been prepared at a Muslim cemetery for victims of the late July surge, with most bodies still unidentified. Spanish authorities have announced additional humanitarian facilities as an estimated 5,000 to 8,000 migrants remain in the enclave.

Pigai Affirms Papuans May Demand Justice and Rights, But Not Independence

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has stated that Papuans are permitted to demand welfare, justice and their rights, but not independence from Indonesia. He encouraged lawful advocacy and evidence-based complaints, while calling for stronger access to justice in conflict areas. Pigai also noted proposals to establish prosecutor offices in Paniai and Puncak Jaya.

Foreign Investors Quietly Snap Up Conglomerate Shares

Despite a net foreign sell of Rp1.58 trillion across the regular market during the week of 10โ€“14 August 2026, foreign investors aggressively accumulated selected Indonesian equities. Dian Swastatika Sentosa led the buying with a net buy of Rp1.16 trillion, followed by Bank Central Asia and Bank Rakyat Indonesia. The Jakarta Composite Index still closed slightly lower at 6,401.89, down 0.12% for the week.

Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Instructs Formation of Task Force to Accelerate Handling of NTT Earthquake Victims

Coordinating Minister Pratikno has ordered the establishment of a regional task force to speed up assistance for earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara, citing the scattered locations of evacuation sites. BNPB chief Suharyanto confirmed that tents, logistics, health services, and food supplies are being mobilised, with coordination involving the Ministry of Social Affairs and Ministry of Health. BMKG has recorded 2,119 aftershocks following the M7.7 Flores earthquake.

No More Reports of Missing Persons After NTT Earthquake

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has confirmed there are no longer any reports of missing persons following the magnitude 7 earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, though search and rescue teams remain on standby. The government has deployed field hospitals and allocated Rp 75.4 billion in food aid, including over 5,300 tonnes of rice, to support affected communities. The official death toll stands at 68, with 213 people injured.

Indonesian Credit Card Can Be Applied for at 7 Banks, Here Is the List

Bank Indonesia has officially launched the Indonesian Credit Card (KKI) retail segment, with seven banks appointed for the initial implementation. The card can be used for all types of purchases at merchants accepting QRIS, both domestically and abroad through the QRIS Cross Border scheme. The launch is part of Bank Indonesia's commitment to the Indonesian Payment System Blueprint 2030 and aims to support inclusive, efficient, and sustainable economic growth.

China ready to provide assistance for earthquake disaster in NTT

China has expressed its condolences over the earthquake in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, and stated its readiness to provide assistance according to Indonesia's needs. The Chinese Foreign Ministry also confirmed that several Chinese nationals were injured, and its consulate in Denpasar has activated emergency mechanisms to help those affected.

Check 14 Mobile Samsat Service Locations in Jadetabek on Tuesday

Polda Metro Jaya is operating mobile Samsat services at 14 locations across Jakarta, Depok, Tangerang, and Bekasi on Tuesday to facilitate annual motor vehicle tax payments. Motorists must bring original KTP, BPKB, and STNK documents along with photocopies. The service is limited to annual PKB payments, while five-year STNK renewals and licence plate changes must be processed at the main Samsat office.

List of the Most Prosperous Countries in Southeast Asia, Where Does Indonesia Rank?

Indonesia ranks third among the most prosperous countries in Southeast Asia according to the Legatum Prosperity Index 2026, with a score of 66.89. Singapore leads the region with 83.80, followed by Malaysia at 73.03. The ranking highlights the diverse economic conditions across Southeast Asia, with Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia at the bottom.

Indonesia's Economy Grows Solidly, Yet Not Fully Sovereign

Indonesia's economy expanded by 5.29 per cent in the second quarter of 2026, outperforming regional peers such as Thailand and Japan. However, senior INDEF economist Didin S. Damanhuri has cautioned that the growth remains overshadowed by inequality and a lack of economic self-reliance. He argues that Indonesia must address oligarchic influence and heavy reliance on imports of staple goods to ensure growth translates into a fairer and more prosperous society.

When the Independence Day Ceremony Commander Was Summoned to Meet Prabowo

President Prabowo Subianto summoned all commanders involved in the flag-raising and lowering ceremonies at the Presidential Palace on Monday (17/8) to meet him after the events. He expressed gratitude and pride that the ceremonies proceeded smoothly and solemnly. The commanders included Colonel Inf Priyo Handoyo and Police Chief Commissioner Jerrold Hendra Yosef Kumontoy.

Want to Extend Your SIM A and C? Check 5 Mobile SIM Locations in Jakarta Today

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police's Traffic Directorate is operating mobile driving licence renewal services at five locations across the capital on Tuesday. The service, running from 8am to 2pm, allows residents to extend their SIM A and SIM C licences. Renewal fees are set at Rp80,000 for SIM A and Rp75,000 for SIM C under Government Regulation No. 60 of 2016.

Back and Forth to the Moon, China Now Possesses Information the US Does Not Have

China has published a new 1:5 million scale geological map of the entire lunar surface, updating its 2024 version with data from the Chang'e-5 mission. The map identifies over 13,500 impact craters and 81 basins, and revises the age boundaries of three ancient lunar geological periods. Chinese researchers say the map and lunar samples provide a new starting point for scientific discussion of the Moon's far side and establish an independent intellectual property framework for China's space exploration.

NTT Earthquake: Government Prepares Rp 5 Trillion for Disaster Management

The Indonesian government has allocated Rp 5 trillion through the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) to respond to the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara and other disasters. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa confirmed that additional funding will be provided if the initial allocation proves insufficient. The government also maintains standby contingency funds to ensure coordinated disaster response and recovery efforts.

Kodam Udayana shifts focus to restoring electricity and roads after NTT earthquake

Kodam IX/Udayana is prioritising the restoration of electricity, communications, fuel supplies, and road access in earthquake-affected areas of Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. The military command is coordinating with stakeholders to ensure recovery extends beyond emergency aid distribution. Mbay and Maumere have been identified as areas requiring serious attention due to the severity of the damage.

Pigai: Papuans may demand welfare, but not independence

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has stated that Papuans are entitled to demand welfare, justice and their rights, but not independence from Indonesia. Speaking during a working visit to the Central Papua Regional House of Representatives in Nabire, he encouraged lawful advocacy and evidence-based complaints. Pigai also called for stronger access to justice, including more prosecutors, courts and civil society advocates in conflict-affected areas.

Berbagi Bahagia Foundation and Sharing Happiness Distribute Aid for Flores Earthquake Victims in NTT

The Berbagi Bahagia Foundation and Sharing Happiness have delivered the first phase of humanitarian aid to communities affected by the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. The assistance includes staple foods and support for communal kitchens, benefiting 547 people in Nagekeo Regency. Further distributions are planned for Sikka, Manggarai, and East Manggarai regencies.

India Suddenly Sells Off State-Owned Enterprise Shares En Masse, Financial Emergency?

The Indian government has accelerated its divestment of state-owned enterprises, raising US$3.3 billion from the sale of a 6.5% stake in Life Insurance Corporation of India alone. The aggressive sell-off is seen as a strategy to shore up state finances amid widening fiscal deficits and economic pressures. Analysts believe the government is on track to meet its annual divestment target of 800 billion rupees.

Fire at Bekasi Utara Stationery Factory Finally Extinguished

A fire that broke out at a stationery factory in Kaliabang, Bekasi Utara, has been successfully extinguished after burning since the previous afternoon. Firefighters remain on site to prevent reignition while awaiting heavy equipment to dismantle debris for maximum cooling. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Bulog: 37,000 Tonnes of Rice Stock in NTT for Earthquake Victims

State logistics agency Bulog has confirmed that rice stocks in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) are sufficient to support earthquake victims, with between 35,000 and 37,000 tonnes available. The agency has instructed its branch offices in affected districts to keep at least 20 tonnes of rice and 1,000 litres of cooking oil on standby. Additional supplies can be brought in from West Nusa Tenggara and South Sulawesi if needed.

Banten Provincial Government Offers Vehicle Tax Discounts Until October for 81st Independence Day

The Banten Provincial Government has introduced a series of vehicle tax incentives, including reductions in the principal tax and waivers of fines, to mark the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence. The measures, effective from 18 August 2026, aim to ease the burden on taxpayers and improve compliance. Governor Andra Soni said the programme is part of the province's annual efforts to support residents and boost regional revenue.

Unusual! US, Netherlands and China Together Push Up Coal Prices

Global coal prices rose on Monday, supported by tightening supply in China due to stricter safety inspections and robust demand from power plants amid hot weather. The Netherlands has also increased coal-fired power generation to its highest level in years, driven by high energy prices and electricity demand from Belgium. These factors combined to create a bullish sentiment in the coal market.

Prabowo Flanked by Jokowi and Gibran While Watching Aircraft Display

President Prabowo Subianto sat between former President Joko Widodo and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka during the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony at the State Palace. The three were seen chatting and laughing together while watching a fighter jet demonstration. State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi described the seating arrangement as situational, noting that Prabowo and Jokowi have long been close friends.

17 Land Offices Can Now Complete Land Certificate Transfers in Just 10 Days, Including 2 in Bali

Indonesia's Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) has launched a faster land certificate transfer service at 17 land offices, reducing processing time to 10 days. Minister Nusron Wahid announced the initiative on 17 August 2026, with an additional 24 offices set to follow on 24 September 2026. The ministry aims to expand the service to 100 offices by next year.

PNSE Temporarily Closes Hotel Jayakarta Flores Following NTT Earthquake

PT Pudjiadi And Sons Tbk (PNSE) has temporarily closed Hotel Jayakarta Suites Komodo Flores after a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Nusa Tenggara Timur on 15 August 2026. The company evacuated all guests and staff, relocating 20 guest rooms to unaffected hotels, and reported building damage. PNSE stated the closure does not halt its core business operations and will not have a material adverse impact on its financial condition or long-term business continuity.

PLN Deploys Teams to Restore Power in Remote Areas Affected by Flores Earthquake in NTT

State electricity company PLN is prioritising the restoration of power in isolated areas of Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, following a powerful earthquake. Teams have been dispatched to Pulau Palue and Golo Lebo to repair damaged solar power plants, battery systems, and distribution networks. The company says it is working to restore electricity as quickly as possible while prioritising safety.

DPR Highlights Investment Risks in Indonesia, Government Urged to Improve Business Climate

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has called on President Prabowo Subianto's government to create a more conducive investment climate to support real sector growth. Speaker Puan Maharani highlighted unresolved legal cases, regional spending relaxation, and environmental risks as key concerns. The DPR stressed that legal certainty and business conditions are critical factors for investors when deciding on capital placement.

Iran Denies Back-Channel Talks with US, IRGC Says Trump Is Hallucinating

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has strongly denied claims of secret talks with the United States, dismissing President Donald Trump's remarks about back-channel communications as lies born of 'hallucinations and nightmares.' Iran's Foreign Ministry separately rejected reports of unofficial contacts through Iraq's Kurdistan Region, calling them fabricated psychological operations. Both institutions stressed that Iran's decision-making remains unified and that diplomacy is handled through official channels.

Running Out of Expensive Missiles, US Now Relies on Thousands of Cheap Drones for Warfare

The United States is accelerating a shift in its warfighting approach after the war with Iran depleted stockpiles of expensive precision missiles. US Central Command has established Task Force Falcon Strike, a multi-domain drone strike unit operating from air, sea surface, and underwater. The move reflects mounting pressure on the American war machine to expand cheaper unmanned systems while simultaneously ramping up production of high-tech conventional weapons.

Reasons Behind Relocation of Two Gembira Loka Elephants to Tabang Zoo, East Kalimantan

Two Sumatran elephants from Gembira Loka Zoo in Yogyakarta have been permanently relocated to Tabang Zoo in Kutai Kartanegara, East Kalimantan. The translocation, overseen by the Ministry of Forestry, was undertaken to improve population management and ensure the animals' welfare. The move followed extensive health checks and route planning to minimise stress during the multi-modal journey.

Freeport McMoRan to Divest 12 Percent Stake to Indonesia from 2041

Freeport-McMoRan has agreed to transfer a 12 percent stake in PT Freeport Indonesia to the Indonesian government beginning in 2041 as part of the extension of its special mining business permit. The transfer will be carried out without a conventional sale, reducing Freeport's ownership from 48.76 percent to around 37 percent from 2042. PT Freeport Indonesia warns that halting operations in 2041 could cost the state hundreds of trillions of rupiah and affect around 30,000 workers.

Breaking Through the Five Percent Limit

Indonesia's economic growth has been stuck at around five percent for a decade, but a substantive Islamic economy and finance model could provide the transformative boost needed to escape the middle-income trap. Econometric simulations suggest that optimising sharia banking, social finance integration, and risk-sharing partnerships could add 1.1 to 2.0 percentage points to annual GDP growth. The approach hinges on mobilising dormant capital, graduating micro-enterprises from social to commercial financing, and improving capital efficiency through genuine risk-sharing.

PTFI Processes IUPK Extension and 12 Percent Share Divestment

PT Freeport Indonesia is moving forward with the extension of its special mining business permit beyond 2041, alongside a planned transfer of 12 percent of Freeport-McMoRan's shares to the Indonesian government. The divestment, agreed in a February 2026 memorandum of understanding, will take effect in 2041 without a sale transaction, with the acquiring party reimbursing pro-rata investment costs based on book value. Company president director Tony Wenas stressed that extending operations is crucial for state revenue and the livelihoods of 30,000 workers in Papua.

Papuan Paskibraka Member Nervous While Carrying Tray During Flag-Lowering Ceremony

Neeltje Deliana Insjowi Werimon, a Papuan member of the national flag-hoisting team (Paskibraka), successfully carried out her duty of returning the national flag to President Prabowo Subianto during the flag-lowering ceremony at Merdeka Palace on Monday. Despite initial nervousness, she described the experience as unforgettable and expressed pride in meeting the President. Her parents, who visited the Palace for the first time, expressed gratitude and pride in their daughter's achievement.

Braving high waves to hoist the Red and White at sea in Gunungkidul

Hundreds of participants, including members of the Satlinmas Rescue Istimewa (SRI) DIY, held a flag ceremony at Pantai Baron, Gunungkidul, to commemorate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The event featured a challenging flag-hoisting at sea, with personnel battling high waves to reach a floating flagpole approximately 150 metres from the shore. Organisers said the procession symbolised the struggle of past generations in achieving independence.

Fatma Saifullah motivates students at Lampung People's School

Fatma Saifullah Yusuf, adviser to the Ministry of Social Affairs' Dharma Wanita Persatuan, visited the Integrated People's School 3 in South Lampung to motivate students as part of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations. She encouraged the 401 pupils to fill independence with positive activities such as diligent study and good character. The free school programme initiated by President Prabowo Subianto aims to provide both academic education and character building for children from underprivileged families.

Food Expo and concurrent fairs attract over 520,000 visits, setting all-time record

Hong Kong's Food Expo and concurrent fairs drew a record 520,000 public visits, with per capita spending reaching HK$1,685, signalling robust consumer demand for health and wellness products. The trade fairs attracted 20,000 buyers from 64 countries and regions, including Indonesia and other ASEAN nations, reinforcing Hong Kong's role as an international food trading hub. Organisers highlighted growing interest in halal-certified and sustainable products, presenting potential opportunities for Indonesian exporters.

Bulog CEO assures food stocks in NTT safe to support post-earthquake recovery

State logistics agency Bulog has confirmed that rice and cooking oil stocks in East Nusa Tenggara are sufficient to support emergency response and recovery efforts following the recent earthquake. The agency has ordered local branches to maintain minimum reserves and is prepared to bring in additional supplies from neighbouring regions if needed.

FWD Group marks 13 years with charitable grants benefitting over 13,000 people across Asia

Pan-Asian insurer FWD Group is marking its 13th anniversary by awarding 13 charitable grants across its regional markets, including Indonesia, where it will support female entrepreneurs through the InnovateHer Academy 4.0. The initiatives span financial literacy, career readiness, health and community recovery, reaching more than 13,000 beneficiaries. The programme underscores FWD's commitment to community investment alongside its commercial growth following its Hong Kong listing.

Former Trump Supporter Claims US Discussing Use of Nuclear Weapons Against Iran

Former US Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene has claimed that the US government is discussing the possible use of nuclear weapons against Iran in strategic meetings. Greene, a vocal conservative and former Trump ally, warned that lowering the nuclear threshold could have catastrophic consequences. The White House has not confirmed the claims.

Trump Threatens to Bomb Oman over Strait of Hormuz Dispute with Iran

US President Donald Trump has threatened to bomb Oman if it obstructs American efforts to end the war with Iran. The threat comes as Iran and Oman hold intensive negotiations over control of the Strait of Hormuz, which Tehran has closed since February. Trump has also threatened to declare the strategic waterway as official US territory.

CoreWeave Enters Indonesia: The Chain of Listed Companies Potentially Reaping the Benefits

US cloud and AI company CoreWeave plans to build three data centre facilities in Indonesia with a total contracted power capacity of 360 MW, targeting operations by 2028. The move marks the company's first expansion into the Asia-Pacific region and is expected to create opportunities for Indonesian listed companies across the supply chain. The investment signals continued foreign interest in Indonesia despite unstable financial market conditions.

A Series of Congratulations on Indonesia's 81st Independence Anniversary from Friendly Nations

Several friendly nations, including the United States, Russia, Germany, Poland, and Saudi Arabia, have conveyed official congratulations to Indonesia on its 81st Independence Anniversary. The messages highlighted longstanding partnerships and expressed hopes for continued cooperation in areas such as trade, security, and technology. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also extended condolences for the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara.

Husein Sastranegara Airport Serves 10 Flights During 81st Independence Day Holiday

Bandung's Husein Sastranegara Airport handled 10 scheduled flights involving six airlines during the extended holiday marking Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. Mayor Muhammad Farhan welcomed the increase as a positive signal for air connectivity and said the city will evaluate the sustainability of regular flights over the next two months. The reactivation of the airport is seen as a crucial moment for the regional economy, with attention also being given to city branding and supporting infrastructure.

Three Service Transformations at the Ministry of ATR/BPN Launched on Indonesia's Independence Day

The Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) launched three service and organisational transformations on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The reforms include scheduled land measurement, integrated title transfers, and area-based organisational structures, aimed at providing greater certainty for the public. Minister Nusron Wahid stated the changes are intended as an independence gift that directly benefits the community.

Bulog Cup strengthens employee solidarity to enliven Indonesia's 81st Independence Day

Perum Bulog has revived its internal sports tournament, Bulog Cup, after a nine-year hiatus to foster employee solidarity and support national food security. The event brought together staff from across Indonesia, from Sabang to Merauke, and featured six sports. The initiative aims to strengthen collaboration and morale among employees as the state logistics company works to safeguard food self-sufficiency.

From Sanders to Mamdani: The New Power Map Reshaping the US Democratic Party

The internal struggle within the US Democratic Party between moderates and progressives is intensifying, with former fundraiser Evan Barker arguing that the progressive wing has gained significant influence over donors, activists, and the nomination process. Barker, who left the party to support Donald Trump in 2024, claims that attempts by party leadership to blacklist consultants aiding progressive challengers backfired and strengthened the far-left. The article traces this shift back to Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's surprise 2018 primary victory over Joe Crowley, which signalled the growing power of grassroots mobilisation against entrenched party elites.

Why Is Educated Unemployment in Indonesia So High?

Indonesia's educated unemployment reached 1.03 million people in May 2026, representing 14.31% of total national unemployment. The Ministry of Manpower attributes the problem primarily to a mismatch between graduate competencies and industry needs, compounded by slow formal job growth and rapid technological change. The government is pursuing curriculum alignment and industry involvement to address the gap.

BI Holds FERBI 2026, Urges Public to Safeguard Rupiah Sovereignty for Greater Dignity on the World Stage

Bank Indonesia launched the Festival Ekspedisi Rupiah Berdaulat Indonesia (FERBI) 2026 in Jakarta, emphasising the importance of maintaining rupiah sovereignty. The central bank also introduced BI BRIDGE, an international dialogue forum aimed at strengthening cooperation and innovation in rupiah currency management. Deputy Governor Ricky P. Gozali highlighted ongoing transformations in currency management, including distribution network modernisation, end-to-end digitalisation, and sustainability principles.