Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 18 August 2026

Showing 301-350 of 1,549 articles

Government to Regulate Courier and Food Delivery Fares for Online Motorcycle Taxis, Here's the Simulation

The Indonesian government and the House of Representatives are finalising a presidential regulation that will set tariffs for online motorcycle taxi services, including courier and food delivery. The regulation will divide tariff-setting authority between the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs and the Ministry of Transportation. Officials say the move aims to improve driver welfare while supporting small businesses in the online transport ecosystem.

Danamon Wealth Management AUM Grows 20 Percent, Priority Banking Business Further Strengthened

PT Bank Danamon Indonesia Tbk has reinforced its wealth management business after winning two awards at the Asian Banking & Finance Retail Banking Awards 2026. The bank's priority banking AUM grew by around 23 percent, driven by product diversification including ETFs and integrated advisory services. Danamon plans to continue innovating as part of the MUFG Group to meet evolving customer needs.

Two Technology Industry Players in Indonesia & Southeast Asia Collaborate to Develop Latest AI Adoption

TOTM Technologies and Indonesia's national AI collaboration platform KORIKA have announced a strategic partnership to advance secure, responsible and trustworthy technology adoption in Indonesia and Southeast Asia. The collaboration covers AI development, quantum-secure infrastructure and digital identity systems. Both parties see cross-border cooperation as essential for building a more connected and trusted digital economy across ASEAN.

Investasi Berdampak Capai Rp 74 Triliun, Pasar Modal Jadi Sumber Dana

Indonesia's impact investing market has reached Rp 74 trillion in assets under management, with the Indonesia Stock Exchange urged to play a larger role as a source of long-term financing for socially and environmentally beneficial sectors. The growth is supported by 28 impact mutual funds and 29 impact bonds and sukuk, channelling capital into education, women's empowerment, MSMEs, health, climate, and affordable housing. Stakeholders at the Impact Investment Festival 2026 emphasised collaboration between regulators, investors, and social organisations to expand access to capital for underserved communities and drive sustainable economic development.

Legal Team Claims Seizure from Febrie's House Resembles Poisonous Tree Legal Theory

The legal team of former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah has challenged the legality of a search and seizure at his Sentul residence, alleging it was conducted without a valid court warrant. They are invoking the 'fruit of the poisonous tree' doctrine to argue that evidence obtained from the allegedly unlawful search should be inadmissible. The matter is being examined through a pretrial hearing at the South Jakarta District Court.

China optimises lower-tier markets to boost domestic consumption

China has announced a package of measures to unlock consumption potential in county-level cities, townships and rural areas, treating its vast lower-tier markets as a new source of domestic demand and economic growth. The guidelines include renovating township commercial centres and rural markets, encouraging brands to open first stores in the regions, and improving services for the elderly and children. Official data show rural retail sales growing faster than urban sales, with lower-tier markets accounting for nearly 40 percent of China's total retail sales.

Energi Mega Persada (ENRG) Sales and Profit Rise in First Half of 2026

PT Energi Mega Persada Tbk (ENRG) reported a 19% year-on-year increase in net sales to US$283.37 million for the first half of 2026. EBITDA rose 25% to US$186.28 million, while net profit climbed 27% to US$45.23 million. The oil and gas producer said it remains focused on optimising existing assets and maintaining disciplined execution to support sustainable long-term growth.

People's Feast for Independence Day boosts South Jakarta MSME economy

The People's Feast held in Ciganjur, South Jakarta, to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day has helped stimulate the local micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) economy. Government officials highlighted the event as a platform for community gratitude and economic activity, with thousands of residents enjoying food and beverages from local vendors. The celebration also featured traditional games and free health check-ups provided by the Jakarta Health Office.

Palm Oil Price Transparency: APKASINDO Launches Dashboard for Farmers

The Indonesian Palm Oil Farmers Association (APKASINDO) has launched a digital dashboard, hargasawitindonesia.id, to give farmers better access to fresh fruit bunch and crude palm oil price information. The platform aims to strengthen the bargaining position of millions of smallholders and promote more transparent trading. It has already recorded around five million visits since its soft launch.

Bank Mandiri Taspen Partners with ITB to Turn Organic Waste into Poultry Feed

Bank Mandiri Taspen has collaborated with the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) to develop an integrated poultry farming facility that converts organic waste into maggot feed for chickens. The initiative aims to create a circular economy model that provides productive activities and income for retirees while addressing organic waste management. The programme is intended to be replicated across Indonesia, with the bank offering financing support to pensioners interested in developing similar ventures.

Seven Days of Fire at Kuningan Landfill, Firefighters Suffer Health Problems

A fire at the Ciniru landfill in Kuningan Regency has been burning for seven days, covering more than five hectares and producing thick smoke that is affecting the health of firefighters. Medical staff have been deployed on site to treat personnel suffering from breathing difficulties and eye irritation, with one firefighter hospitalised. The local health office has stationed ambulances and medical teams at the site since the fire began.

House Pushes Finalisation of Presidential Regulation to Strengthen Protections for Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers and Couriers

The House of Representatives and the government have agreed to expand Presidential Regulation No. 27 of 2026 to cover couriers delivering goods and food, not just passenger transport. The State Secretariat aims to finalise the regulation by the end of August or early September 2026. Commission caps for passenger transport have already been set at a maximum of 8 percent since 1 July 2026.

81-Metre Red and White Flag Unfurled in Kobakma, Papua Highlands

Residents of Kobakma District in Central Mamberamo, Papua Highlands, joined TNI-Polri personnel to unfurl an 81-metre Indonesian flag in celebration of the 81st anniversary of independence. Military commander Lt Col Inf Ilham Datu Ramang said the event symbolised national pride and unity, and highlighted the active participation of local students. He expressed hope that the moment would inspire continued love for the homeland and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood across Papua Highlands.

Indonesian Embassy in Moscow marks 81st Independence Day with job fair

The Indonesian Embassy in Moscow celebrated Indonesia's 81st Independence Day by hosting a job fair, consular services, and student support programmes aimed at strengthening public empowerment and service delivery. The job fair, now in its second year, featured Indonesian and Russian companies from sectors including energy, agriculture, and manufacturing. Ambassador Jose Antonio Morato Tavares emphasised the embassy's commitment to expanding opportunities for Indonesian citizens in Russia.

Through BRI Export Training, This Jayapura SME Reaches Global Markets

Sukma Ayu Mayangsari's Jayapura-based enterprise, PT MJEthnic Craft Indonesia, has expanded from selling Papuan handicrafts online to exporting Indonesian SME products to countries including Australia, the Netherlands, and the United States. She credits BRI's export training programme for equipping her with the knowledge and networks needed to enter international markets. The company also allocates 2.5 per cent of sales to assist underprivileged communities in Papua.

Seven Seriously Injured East Manggarai Earthquake Victims Evacuated to Labuan Bajo

Seven people seriously injured in the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, have been airlifted from East Manggarai Regency to Labuan Bajo for urgent medical treatment. The victims, suffering from fractures, dislocations, spinal trauma and severe hand injuries, were evacuated in two batches using a Basarnas Dauphin helicopter. The joint SAR team is prioritising those requiring immediate medical attention as the emergency response continues.

Electric Motorcycle Purchase Subsidy to Take Effect September 2026

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has indicated that the Rp5 million electric motorcycle purchase incentive could come into force as early as September 2026. The policy is still awaiting the issuance of a Finance Ministry regulation, with the Industry Ministry saying it is technically ready to implement the programme once the rule is published.

KPK Suspects PALI Regent Sought Help to Obtain Unqualified Opinion from BPK Officials

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating allegations that Penukal Abab Lematang Ilir (PALI) Regent Asgianto sought assistance from audit board officials to secure an unqualified opinion (WTP) for his region. Investigators suspect similar practices may have occurred in other regions beyond Muara Enim. The case stems from a bribery investigation involving Muara Enim Regent Edison and officials of the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK).

BI Cirebon: Trikarsa Fest 2026 records Rp14 billion in business matching

Bank Indonesia's Cirebon representative office reported that Trikarsa Fest 2026 generated Rp14.32 billion in business matching commitments from 49 letters of intent. The four-day event also recorded around Rp1.14 billion in transactions and helped channel Rp2.12 billion in bank financing across the Ciayumajakuning region. The festival involved 103 MSMEs and attracted more than 115,000 visitors.

Freeport Boss Reveals Reasons for IUPK Extension Application After 2041

PT Freeport Indonesia has formally applied for an extension of its Special Mining Business Permit (IUPK) beyond 2041, citing the need for operational certainty to maximise remaining mineral reserves at Grasberg. The company argues that halting operations in 2041 would harm the state, workers, and community development programmes, while an extension would deliver substantial annual contributions to Indonesia. The move follows a memorandum of understanding signed in February 2026, which includes a further 12% divestment to the Indonesian government effective from 2042.

4,587 Job Vacancies Opened at Central Java Job Fair, 257 Positions from 30 Companies

The Central Java Manpower and Transmigration Office is holding a job fair on 20-21 August to mark the province's 81st anniversary, offering 4,587 vacancies from 30 companies. The positions span 257 job titles across sectors including manufacturing, banking, agriculture, and hospitality, with opportunities for various education levels and disabled job seekers. Around 2,800 people have already registered online for the event in Semarang.

Indonesia launches women's microcredit scheme at 8 pct interest

Indonesia has introduced a new microcredit scheme, KPPS, offering women from underprivileged families financing at a flat 8 percent annual interest rate, down from around 24 percent. The programme, backed by Coordinating Economic Affairs Ministerial Regulation No. 7 of 2026, provides loans of up to Rp15 million without collateral to support productive businesses. It targets women verified in the lowest four deciles of the national socio-economic data and aims to significantly reduce financing burdens for vulnerable groups.

Iran to Keep Strait of Hormuz Closed Until US Fulfils Commitments

Iran's parliament speaker has declared that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until the United States honours the terms of a memorandum of understanding signed by both parties. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Tehran would use both diplomatic and military means to make Washington understand the consequences of its actions. The strategic waterway, a vital route for global oil and gas exports, has become a focal point of tensions between the two countries.

Good News! Part-Time PPPK to Be Converted to Full-Time PPPK

The Indonesian government and the House of Representatives have agreed to convert part-time government contract workers (PPPK) into full-time PPPK, with full-time PPPK teachers given the opportunity to become civil servants (PNS). The policy covers 231,246 part-time teacher PPPK and will be implemented in 2027, with the Finance Ministry confirming the move will not jeopardise the fiscal deficit target of 2.4%.

Kubu Raya Stunting Rate at 30.2 Percent, Prevention Efforts Strengthened

Stunting prevalence among children under five in Kubu Raya Regency, West Kalimantan, remains at 30.2 percent, significantly above both provincial and national averages. A community-based prevention model involving family mentoring, local food utilisation, and youth engagement is being developed across four model villages. The programme, a partnership between the government and private foundations, aims to be replicated more widely to accelerate stunting reduction.

Thousands of food packages distributed to underprivileged residents in Kalideres

The Kalideres sub-district administration in West Jakarta distributed 2,800 basic food packages to underprivileged residents as part of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations. The event also featured free health check-ups, traditional games, musical entertainment, and 5,000 free vouchers for local micro, small, and medium enterprises. Officials said the commemoration should inspire citizens to contribute to national development and strengthen community solidarity.

Iraqi Foreign Minister phones Iranian counterpart over drone attack on Kurdistan

Iraq's Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein has demanded clarification from Tehran after a drone strike targeted the private office of Kurdistan Regional Government Prime Minister Masrour Barzani. Hussein warned the attack set a 'dangerous precedent' that could escalate tensions and threaten regional stability. Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi expressed surprise and denied any information indicating the strike originated from Iranian territory.

Retail Investors Flee South Korean Market, Snap Up US Stocks

South Korean retail investors are shifting funds into US equities, including American Depositary Receipts of domestic chipmaker SK Hynix, amid concerns over a correction in their home market. Analysts warn the premium on SK Hynix ADRs and heavy buying of leveraged ETFs signal speculative excess. The trend suggests investors are not abandoning AI and semiconductor themes but merely relocating their exposure.

Social Affairs Ministry partners with National Police to follow up on aid recipients involved in online gambling

Indonesia's Social Affairs Ministry is working with the National Police to address findings that hundreds of thousands of social assistance beneficiaries used aid funds for online gambling. The ministry will suspend or deactivate recipients who repeatedly misuse funds, while police handle legal action. The number of flagged recipients more than doubled compared to the previous year.

Orangutan Escapes from Solo Safari: Knocks Over Motorcycle, Enters Restaurant

An orangutan escaped from Solo Safari in Central Java and wandered into a nearby restaurant after pushing over a parked motorcycle. Management confirmed the animal was safely recaptured and returned to its enclosure, apologising for public concern.

BMKG Urges Gelumbang Raya Residents to Beware of Dust and ISPA Risk

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned residents of Gelumbang Raya in Muara Enim, South Sumatra, to be vigilant against airborne dust during the dry season. The agency noted that high temperatures and low humidity are increasing the risk of acute respiratory infections (ISPA). Residents are advised to take preventive measures to avoid health impacts from dust and thin smoke haze.

South Jakarta administration urges residents to help maintain three retention basins in Jagakarsa

The South Jakarta city government has called on residents to help maintain three retention basins in Jagakarsa to ensure they continue to function optimally in holding rainwater runoff and preventing flooding. Mayor Syafrin Liputo said areas that previously experienced regular inundation are now free from flooding, while the basins also provide public open space with facilities such as jogging tracks and playgrounds. Officials emphasised that routine dredging of sediment is essential to preserve storage capacity during extreme rainfall.

TNGGP extends Mount Gede hiking closure for two weeks

Mount Gede Pangrango National Park has extended its hiking trail closure until 31 August 2026 to complete post-fire handling and ensure visitor safety. Officials report no visible smoke or hotspots remain, with heavy rain over the past two days aiding firefighting efforts. The closure may be extended further depending on the outcome of ongoing assessments.

Home Affairs Minister Continues Inspection in Waekokak, Delivers Aid for Earthquake Victims

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian visited an evacuation post in Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, to assess conditions following a recent earthquake. He handed over condolence payments of Rp15 million to each family of the deceased and Rp100 million in village assistance. The minister also pledged to raise damaged irrigation affecting around 100 hectares with the Agriculture Minister.

Anak Krakatau Volcano Erupts 20 Times, Volcanic Ash Disrupts Residents' Breathing

Mount Anak Krakatau in South Lampung has recorded eight eruptions with incandescent lava bursts, maintaining its Level III (Alert) status. The PVMBG has issued strict recommendations for the public and tourists to stay at least three kilometres from the active crater. Volcanic ash from the eruptions has reportedly affected residents' respiratory health.

Video: VinFast Introduces TCO to Change How Electric Car Costs Are Calculated

VinFast is promoting the concept of total cost of ownership (TCO) to address consumer concerns about the long-term expenses of electric vehicles. The company claims its ownership programmes can make the transition to electric cars more predictable. The discussion was featured in CNBC Indonesia's Autobizz programme.

Vessel Carrying 2.6 Tonnes of Liquid Narcotics Also Transported 1.5 Million Illegal Cigarettes

Indonesian authorities have discovered that the MV Ocean Porter, intercepted off Karimun in the Riau Islands, was also carrying 1.57 million illegal cigarettes alongside 2.6 tonnes of liquid narcotics. The vessel was seized in a joint operation involving the National Narcotics Agency, Customs, and Riau Islands Police. Officials say the ship was using a falsified identity and its ten Myanmar crew members have been detained.

Unika Santu Paulus Ruteng Withdraws All KKN Students Following Flores Earthquake

Unika Santu Paulus Ruteng has withdrawn all students undertaking community service placements (KKN) following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. The university prioritised student safety after some students became victims of collapsing buildings, while still allowing voluntary, coordinated humanitarian relief efforts. An emergency response post will be established to coordinate aid and volunteer activities with local authorities.

Red Sea Ablaze: Houthis Launch Missile Barrage at Saudi Military Vessel

Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi movement has claimed responsibility for a missile attack on a Saudi military vessel and four escort ships in the Red Sea off the coast of Mocha. The incident near the strategic Bab el-Mandeb Strait adds to escalating maritime violence following a Houthi naval blockade imposed on Saudi Arabia in July. Saudi authorities have yet to issue an official response to the claims.

Iran to keep Strait of Hormuz closed until US fulfils peace commitments

Iran's parliament speaker has said the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until the United States honours a memorandum of understanding signed by both sides. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned that Iran would use diplomatic and military means to make Washington understand the consequences of its actions. The strategic waterway is a vital route for global oil and gas exports.

Human Rights Minister pushes for human rights to become compulsory school textbook

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai is urging the government to make human rights a standalone compulsory subject in Indonesia's national education system, rather than a mere insert in other lessons. He is in talks with the Education Ministry and wants a dedicated textbook and curriculum allocation. Pigai described the initiative as a long-term goal that may require legislative or curriculum changes.

Minister confirms monitoring of port and airport handling in NTT

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has assured that the government is continuing to review and accelerate repairs to seaports and airports affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. He stated that runways and taxiways remain in good condition and all airports can still serve flights, while damage to terminals and port facilities is mostly minor. The Ministry of Transport is carrying out inspections as a mitigation measure to ensure aviation safety and operational continuity.

Students Stage Rally in Sudirman Area, Highlighting Food Prices and Disasters

Members of the National Student Front held a demonstration in Jakarta's Sudirman area to criticise government policies they consider detrimental to public interests. The protesters demanded lower staple food prices, raised concerns about potential corruption in the Free Nutritious Meals programme and the Red and White Village Cooperatives, and urged the government to declare disasters in Sumatra and East Nusa Tenggara as national emergencies. Tensions rose during the rally when demonstrators clashed with officers.

Digital Gold Investment Expands Public Access

PT Indo Premier Investment Management and PT Indo Premier Sekuritas have launched a sharia-compliant gold ETF, XGLD, on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. The product allows investors to gain gold exposure starting from 0.1 milligrams, broadening access amid rising gold prices. It is structured as a sharia mutual fund with tax advantages and is managed within the Indo Premier ecosystem.

Purbaya says electric motorcycle incentive could take effect September 2026

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has indicated that the Rp5 million electric motorcycle subsidy could be implemented as early as September 2026, pending the issuance of a Finance Ministry regulation. Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita said his ministry is technically ready but is waiting for the PMK before the programme can proceed. The list of eligible electric motorcycle brands is still being discussed with Danantara Indonesia and the Finance Ministry.

Danantara Prioritises Prudence in Restructuring State-Owned Construction Firms

Danantara Indonesia and the Ministry of State-Owned Enterprises are taking a cautious approach to restructuring seven state-owned construction companies, citing the complexity of long-standing financial and operational problems. The process, which involves addressing issues at holding, subsidiary, and sub-subsidiary levels, is now targeted for completion by the end of 2026. The government is avoiding hasty mergers or bankruptcies to protect the construction ecosystem and stakeholders.

House Commission III Backs BNN and Joint Team in Uncovering 2.6 Tonnes of Liquid Narcotics

House of Representatives Commission III has expressed strong support for the National Narcotics Agency, Customs and Excise, and Riau Islands Police following the seizure of 2.6 tonnes of liquid narcotics from the MV Ocean Porter. Chairman Habiburokhman described the operation as a meaningful independence gift that helps protect Indonesia's younger generation. He urged investigators to pursue the case thoroughly, including the international financiers and recipients behind the syndicate.

Aresha Foundation Chairwoman Accused of Using Inappropriate Permit for Child Daycare

The chairwoman of the Little Aresha Daycare foundation has been charged with operating a childcare, playground and kindergarten facility under a permit intended for social and religious activities. Prosecutors allege the foundation collected fees of Rp1 million to Rp2 million per child per month while failing to deliver promised facilities and services. The case also involves allegations of child neglect and violence, including binding, pinching, hitting and confining children.

After Dovia Sells Out Quickly, Sinar Mas Land Launches Livia Cluster at Grand Wisata Bekasi

Sinar Mas Land has launched the Livia residential cluster at Grand Wisata Bekasi following the rapid sell-out of the previous Dovia cluster. The development comprises 146 exclusive units priced between Rp2 billion and Rp3 billion, targeting the premium housing segment. The launch reflects continued confidence in Bekasi's property market, supported by strategic infrastructure projects and a stable national housing sector.

South Jakarta administration builds water channel in Cilandak to tackle flooding

The South Jakarta city government has begun constructing an underground water channel along Jalan Karang Tengah Raya in Cilandak using the jacking method to mitigate recurring flooding. The project, which is expected to take six months, will channel rainwater into the Pesanggrahan River. Officials have urged residents and motorists to comply with traffic diversions during the construction period.