Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 18 August 2026

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Pre-trial: Febrie Adriansyah Demands Attorney General's Office Return 74 kg of Gold and Cash

Former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah has filed a pre-trial motion demanding the return of 74 kilograms of gold and hundreds of billions of rupiah in cash seized from his residence. His legal team argues the seizure was unlawful and that evidence obtained through flawed procedures cannot be used under the 'fruit of the poisonous tree' doctrine. The case relates to alleged money laundering and has drawn attention to the conduct of the Attorney General's Office and police investigators.

Content creator Jerhemy Owen invites residents to green critical land in Aceh

Content creator Jerhemy Owen is using TikTok to mobilise support for reforesting degraded land in Aceh through his Wenanam programme. The initiative combines digital engagement with tree planting, aiming to restore areas damaged by floods and landslides while also reducing human-elephant conflict. After planting 10,000 seedlings in Bogor in 2025, the programme is targeting 250,000 seedlings in Aceh in 2026.

Tanjung Perak Port Authority and Pelindo distribute aid to NTT earthquake victims

The Tanjung Perak Port Authority and Pelindo Group have dispatched humanitarian aid to communities affected by the earthquake in Nusa Tenggara Timur, targeting Maumere and Ende. The shipment, carried by PELNI's MV Tidar, includes food, baby supplies, and 40 tarpaulin tents. The aid is expected to arrive on 19 August 2026 and reflects coordination among port-related state-owned enterprises.

Aitech Announces New Rugged, SOSA-Aligned U-C6850 High-Speed Ethernet Switch/Router for Defence Systems

Aitech has introduced the U-C6850 10/40GbE fully managed Ethernet switch/router, its first SOSA-aligned connectivity solution for military and aerospace platforms. The rugged 3U VPX board offers up to 320 Gbps switching capacity and supports up to eight 40GbE or 32 10GbE interfaces, enabling high-speed data exchange in modern sensor fusion architectures. The product is designed to help defence contractors modernise legacy platforms while optimising size, weight, power and cost.

Ambassador: 81st Indonesian Independence Day a momentum to strengthen care for others

Indonesia's Ambassador to Romania and Moldova, Meidyatama Suryodiningrat, said the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence is a moment to remember the heroes' struggle while strengthening solidarity and care for others. The commemoration in Bucharest also included prayers for victims of the 7.7-magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The event was attended by embassy staff, Indonesian citizens, the diaspora, and Romanian friends of Indonesia.

BP BUMN targets Dahana profit of Rp2 trillion by 2030

BP BUMN chief Dony Oskaria has set a target for state-owned explosives maker PT Dahana to grow its profit from Rp500 billion to Rp2 trillion by 2030 through expansion. The plan includes building new plants and increasing production capacity, while leveraging the Danantara Asset Management ecosystem. Troubled state-owned defence companies will be restructured separately to allow each to focus on its own market opportunities.

Orangutan Escapes from Solo Safari, Roams onto Main Road and Food Stall

An orangutan escaped from Solo Safari and wandered onto a public road, damaging parked motorcycles and frightening residents before being recaptured. The management of Solo Safari, part of Taman Safari Indonesia Group, said the animal was safely returned to its exhibit. Officials stressed that public safety and animal welfare were prioritised during the operation.

Yaqut Questions KPK's Method for Determining Rp622 Billion State Loss in Indictment

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has challenged the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) to openly demonstrate how it calculated the alleged Rp622 billion state loss in the hajj quota corruption case. Yaqut questioned the methodology used and argued that the indictment conflated ministerial policy with technical matters that fall under the directorate general's remit. He made the remarks after a hearing at the Central Jakarta District Court on Tuesday.

Forget Competing with America, Four of Its States Alone Could Make Indonesia Feel Inadequate

Indonesia's nominal GDP of around US$1.5 trillion places it just below Florida and above Illinois when compared with US state economies. California, Texas, New York, and Florida each have economies larger than Indonesia's, with California nearly three times its size. The comparison highlights both the scale of the US economy and Indonesia's growing position in the global economic landscape.

Danantara Housing Expo: Visitors can win apartments and houses

Danantara Indonesia will host the Danantara Housing Expo 2026 from 27โ€“30 August at NICE PIK 2 in Tangerang Regency, offering more than 200,000 housing units and financing access. Visitors can win prizes including four apartments, one house, and a solar panel set. The expo is designed as a one-stop housing ecosystem featuring low down payments, subsidised interest rates, and direct consultations with developers.

KJRI Johor Bahru Repatriates 307 Indonesian Citizens to Batam via Programme M

The Indonesian Consulate General in Johor Bahru has repatriated 307 Indonesian citizens to Batam, marking one of the largest single-day repatriations through the region. The operation, conducted in coordination with Malaysian immigration authorities, included 300 detainees deported under Programme M and seven individuals with special cases. The programme, funded by the Malaysian government, aims to reduce overcrowding in immigration detention centres and has returned 3,558 Indonesians since December 2024.

Bengkayang Police harvest five tonnes of maize from former illegal gold mining land

Bengkayang Police in West Kalimantan have harvested approximately five tonnes of maize from two hectares of former illegal gold mining land, demonstrating productive reuse of degraded land. The harvest is part of the police force's food security programme and involved hybrid maize seeds. Police also handed over sprayer equipment to a local farmers' group to support agricultural productivity.

BNPB: Electricity restoration reaches 99.9 percent after earthquake in East and West Flores

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has reported that electricity services in East and West Flores have been restored to 99.9 percent following the recent magnitude 7.7 earthquake. All main substations and feeders are back in full operation, with 566,525 customers reconnected. Telecommunications recovery is also progressing, with Ende Regency reaching 98.6 percent restoration.

Yusril: PT Timah agrees to purchase tin sand from community miners

Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra announced that state-owned PT Timah has agreed to temporarily purchase tin sand from community miners in Bangka Belitung. The decision follows recent unrest in East Belitung, where protesters set fire to a PT Timah office after the company halted purchases for several weeks. A small team led by Deputy Minister Otto Hasibuan will formulate policy and legal measures pending a presidential regulation on tin governance.

Danantara stresses prudence in restructuring state-owned construction firms

Danantara Indonesia's Chief Operating Officer Dony Oskaria has emphasised a cautious approach to restructuring the country's troubled state-owned construction companies, citing their large debts and complex subsidiary structures. He said the process is taking time because the government wants to avoid harming affected workers and the wider ecosystem. The planned merger of seven state-owned construction firms is now expected to slip from June 2026 to the fourth quarter of 2026.

Home Affairs Minister Continues Review, Delivers Condolence Assistance in Waekokak Village

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian visited an evacuation post in Waekokak Village, Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, to assess earthquake damage and deliver government assistance. He handed over Rp15 million in condolence payments to each family of deceased victims and Rp100 million in village aid. The minister also pledged to raise irrigation damage with the agriculture minister and prioritise additional food, water, tents and blankets for affected residents.

Students Disband After Protest in Central Jakarta

Hundreds of students protesting outside UOB Building in Central Jakarta dispersed peacefully on Tuesday afternoon after voicing their demands. Police detained 21 individuals carrying dangerous items, including firecrackers and flares, who were suspected of being outsiders aiming to provoke clashes. Authorities deployed over a thousand personnel to secure the demonstration and maintain public order.

Security for People's Banquet in Thousand Islands confirmed optimal

The Thousand Islands Police Chief has confirmed that security arrangements for the People's Banquet marking Indonesia's 81st Independence Day on Pramuka Island were carried out optimally. The event involved coordinated efforts from police, military, and local government agencies to ensure public safety and order. The celebration included distribution of basic food packages, door prizes, and entertainment, reflecting strong community participation.

Support for Basic Needs of NTT Earthquake Victims

Pertamina has mobilised humanitarian aid worth Rp415 million for communities affected by the 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara on 15 August 2026. The assistance, reaching over 3,900 beneficiaries, includes medical supplies, food, clean water, sanitation facilities, and emergency energy. The company has established coordination posts and medical services in the hardest-hit areas of Nagekeo, Sikka, and Manggarai.

House Leadership and Government to Finalise Online Motorcycle Taxi Presidential Regulation

The House of Representatives and the government are accelerating the completion of a Presidential Regulation governing online motorcycle taxis, with only one finalisation meeting remaining. The regulation aims to provide legal certainty and clear rules for the app-based transport sector, including the status of drivers as micro-enterprises. Key remaining discussions focus on the technical calculation of passenger and goods transport.

Danamon Wealth Management Grows 20%, Here's Its Business Strategy

PT Bank Danamon Indonesia Tbk reported approximately 20% year-on-year growth in Wealth Management Assets Under Management from December 2022 to December 2025. The bank also won two awards at the Asian Banking & Finance Retail Banking Awards 2026, recognising its investment product innovation and priority banking initiatives. Danamon plans to continue expanding its investment solutions and priority banking services to meet evolving customer needs.

BRIN and WIKA Forge Partnership for Research and Innovation Development in the Construction Industry

Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) and state-owned construction firm PT Wijaya Karya (WIKA) have signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen research and innovation in the construction sector. The collaboration aims to develop innovative, efficient, and environmentally friendly construction technologies, including precast concrete housing, railway systems, sea wall construction, and small modular nuclear reactors. The partnership is intended to support sustainable development and the implementation of ESG principles across WIKA Group's operations.

1,700 People Defrauded by European Job Vacancy Scam, Here's How It Worked

At least 1,700 people have fallen victim to a fraudulent recruitment scheme offering jobs in Europe. The alleged mastermind, Mazhoor Ubongin Khusin, was arrested in the Philippines after his agency's licence was revoked for regulatory violations. Authorities are pursuing five other suspects believed to be involved in the network.

PLN: Reliable electricity supply smooths Independence Day celebrations in East Java

State electricity company PLN deployed extensive standby measures across East Java to ensure uninterrupted power during the 81st Independence Day celebrations. The utility prepared 129 standby posts, over 5,500 technical personnel, and backup systems including generators and UPS units at key ceremonial locations. PLN also readied 302 electric vehicle charging stations to support mobility during the holiday period.

Welcoming Bank Indonesia's New Captain

President Prabowo Subianto has nominated Destry Damayanti as Governor of Bank Indonesia and Aida S. Budiman as Senior Deputy Governor, signalling a technocratic choice that reinforces the central bank's independence. The article argues that the new leadership must urgently formulate a clear core monetary policy direction amid global uncertainty. It highlights the need for coordination between the Finance Minister and the incoming BI Governor to guide fiscal and monetary policy.

Batam Investment Reaches IDR 38.97 Trillion in H1 2026

Batam recorded realised investment of IDR 38.97 trillion in the first half of 2026, equivalent to 55.67 percent of its full-year target of IDR 70 trillion. The head of BP Batam stressed that business certainty, service delivery, and infrastructure readiness are as important as capital inflows. Employment in the region rose by 32.16 percent year-on-year, reflecting the multiplier effect of new investments entering the production phase.

IHSG Closes Higher at 6,449 Ahead of BI-Rate Announcement

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) closed 0.75% higher at 6,449.83 on Tuesday, buoyed by market expectations that Bank Indonesia will hold its benchmark interest rate at 5.75%. The energy sector led gains, while the financial sector was the sole decliner. Investors are awaiting the outcome of the central bank's two-day policy meeting amid global uncertainty over the US-Iran conflict.

Mobility on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day Rises, LRT Jabodebek Serves 83,572 Passengers

LRT Jabodebek recorded 83,572 passengers on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, a 7 per cent increase compared with the same period in 2025. The operator extended operating hours until midnight and offered a special Rp8 fare to accommodate high mobility during the celebrations. Harjamukti and Dukuh Atas Bank Syariah Indonesia stations saw the highest passenger volumes.

AGO's Team 9 Examines 8 Witnesses and 1 Expert in Febrie Money Laundering Corruption Case

The Attorney General's Office has questioned eight witnesses and one expert in the money laundering case involving former junior attorney general for special crimes, Febrie Adriansyah. The investigation relates to the discovery of 74 kilograms of gold and Rp543 billion in cash at his Sentul residence. Two private individuals have also been named as suspects for their alleged involvement in the scheme.

Freeport Develops New Mine, Investment Could Reach Rp72 Trillion

PT Freeport Indonesia is advancing development of the Kucing Liar underground mine in Papua, with total investment projected to reach Rp72 trillion. The new block is expected to begin production in 2029, producing 130,000 tonnes of ore per day to offset declining output from the Grasberg Block Cave. The project is part of the company's long-term strategy to maintain production capacity at 240,000 tonnes of ore per day.

North Sumatra Police sends 25 tons of aid to NTT earthquake victims

The North Sumatra Police has dispatched 25 tons of essential supplies, including rice, sugar, instant noodles and cooking oil, to earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara. The aid, sent via air cargo, is intended to ease the burden on affected residents during the emergency response phase and support their recovery. Police officials emphasised that the assistance reflects humanitarian concern and may be followed by further shipments if needed.

BEM UI Demonstration in Tosari, Central Jakarta Disperses After Singing 'Indonesia Pusaka'

A student demonstration organised by the University of Indonesia's Student Executive Board (BEM UI) and the National Student Front (FMN) dispersed peacefully in Central Jakarta on Tuesday evening. The protesters, who had gathered near Tosari, sang the patriotic song 'Indonesia Pusaka' and collected rubbish before leaving the area. The rally was held under the banner #MerebutKemerdekaan, with organisers presenting eight demands including an end to corruption, genuine agrarian reform, and lower staple food and fuel prices.

Five Forestry Ministry Officials Questioned in Transfer Pricing Investigation

Indonesian prosecutors have questioned five officials from the Ministry of Forestry as witnesses in the ongoing transfer pricing investigation into PT Toba Pulp Lestari. The case involves alleged manipulation of HS codes and under-invoicing in pulp exports to affiliated companies abroad between 2008 and 2025. Two company tax supervisors were named suspects last week, but no Toba Pulp executives have yet been charged.

Independence Day: PLBN Sebatik Affirms Comprehensive Border Management

The Sebatik Cross-Border Post (PLBN) marked Indonesia's 81st Independence Day with a ceremony underscoring the government's commitment to treating border areas as the nation's front line rather than neglected peripheries. BNPP expert Edi Mardiyanto, reading the Home Minister's message, stressed that border communities must be the primary beneficiaries of development. A Grand Design for Border Area Transformation 2026-2045 is being prepared to guide integrated border management over the next two decades.

Indosolar 2026 Drives Strengthening of National Solar Energy Ecosystem

The Indonesian Solar Energy Association (AESI) is using the Indosolar 2026 forum to push for a more integrated solar energy ecosystem, targeting up to 10 GW of quick wins by 2028. Discussions covered financing, supply chains, rooftop and floating solar, and workforce development. AESI plans to bring the forum's recommendations to the IndoEBTKE ConEx to support long-term industry growth.

Police Chief and Ministers to Visit Sembalun Tomorrow, Dump Trucks Banned from Main Route

Dump trucks will be prohibited from using the main route to Sembalun in East Lombok on Wednesday to facilitate a working visit by National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo and several ministers. The delegation is scheduled to review the garlic self-sufficiency programme and conduct a mass harvest and planting event in the area. Traffic authorities will deploy personnel to direct truck drivers to alternative routes.

North Jakarta Forkopimko holds Anti-Brawl Declaration

The North Jakarta Leadership Communication Forum (Forkopimko) has held an Anti-Brawl Declaration as a joint commitment to creating security and order. The declaration aims to maintain a safe and conducive environment and encourages young people to channel their energy into positive and productive activities. Local officials and community representatives attended the event to affirm their collective rejection of violence and inter-group fighting.

Bahlil Confirms Fuel and Electricity Supply in NTT Improving: Still Not 100 Percent

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has confirmed that fuel and electricity supplies in East Nusa Tenggara are gradually recovering following the recent earthquake, though distribution has not yet fully returned to normal. He acknowledged that while main substations are operational, delivering supply to affected locations will require additional time. The death toll from the disaster has risen to 70, with 132 people injured according to Basarnas.

Mataram City Government Sends Dozens of Health Workers and Ambulance to Aid NTT Earthquake Victims

The Mataram city government in West Nusa Tenggara has dispatched 43 health workers and an ambulance to assist victims of the 7.7 magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The medical team includes emergency doctors, nurses, and surgical specialists, and will serve for 12 days with the possibility of extension. The deployment is part of a broader humanitarian response that may also involve students and NTT community representatives based in Mataram.

0% Down Payment for Electric Motorcycles: APPI Reveals Major Challenges on the Ground

Indonesia's plan to boost electric motorcycle adoption through 0% down payments and affordable instalments faces significant hurdles beyond financing, according to the Indonesian Financing Companies Association (APPI). APPI Chairman Suwandi Wiratno highlighted concerns over ownership patterns, battery swap infrastructure, and consumer behaviour as key obstacles. He stressed that ecosystem readiness, including accessible battery swapping facilities, will determine whether the public genuinely shifts away from petrol motorcycles.

Analyst says BNI and Mandiri benefit from BI incentive policy

A Mirae Asset Sekuritas analyst says Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) and Bank Mandiri stand to benefit from Bank Indonesia's new Macroprudential Liquidity Incentive Policy (KLM), effective 1 September 2026. The policy offers reserve requirement incentives to banks that keep their holdings of government bonds and non-repo SRBI below 19 percent of total funding. Banks with higher ratios, such as BCA, may not qualify for the maximum incentive.

Government mobilises all resources to recover from NTT earthquake impact

The Indonesian government is deploying cross-ministerial resources to accelerate emergency response and recovery following the 7.7 magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. Deputy Social Affairs Minister Agus Jabo Priyono said the effort follows a direct instruction from President Prabowo Subianto, with priority on basic needs, infrastructure restoration, and restoring electricity and communications. The government is using helicopters and ferries to reach remote affected areas such as Palue Island.

Braving Fog and Rough Roads, BRI Field Officer Upholds Hope for South Cianjur Entrepreneurs

A BRI microfinance officer in South Cianjur overcomes difficult terrain and weather to support local palm sugar farmers and small business owners. His work highlights BRI's strategy of building close relationships with clients to expand financial inclusion and foster MSME growth.

Large Earthquake Suddenly Shakes NTT, When Will Tourism Recover?

A powerful earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) on 15 August 2026 has disrupted tourism and the hotel and restaurant business in the region. The Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI) warns that directly affected areas face occupancy pressure until recovery is complete, with Nagekeo Regency on Flores Island among the hardest hit. Around 9,000 people remain displaced, and PHRI is urging the government to accelerate damage assessment and support recovery for severely affected businesses.

CT ARSA Foundation Promotes Free CT ARSA Senior High School in Boyolali

CT ARSA Foundation, in collaboration with AirNav Indonesia, has been promoting its fully funded CT ARSA Senior High School to students in Boyolali, Central Java. The school, established by Chairul Tanjung and Anita Ratnasari Tanjung, offers free boarding education specifically for students from underprivileged families. The foundation is targeting students from the lowest economic brackets to apply and undergo selection for the school.

Attorney General's Office Examines 5 Witnesses from Forestry Ministry in Pulp Export Manipulation Case

The Attorney General's Office has questioned five witnesses from the Ministry of Forestry as part of its investigation into alleged transfer pricing corruption involving PT Toba Pulp Lestari. The case centres on systematic under-invoicing of pulp exports between 2008 and 2025, which allegedly reduced the company's tax obligations significantly. Two tax officials have already been named as suspects for allegedly accepting bribes to conceal the manipulation.

TNI accelerates NTT earthquake response from evacuation to field kitchens

The Indonesian Military (TNI) under Kodam IX/Udayana has intensified its emergency response to the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, covering evacuation, medical services, field kitchens and distribution of basic necessities. Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin arrived in Labuan Bajo and 20 tonnes of humanitarian aid were flown in from Jakarta. The military says public safety remains the top priority, followed by rapid evacuation of the injured and targeted aid distribution.

Traffic Diversions for Independence Day Parade in Wates Tomorrow

A parade competition marking the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence will be held in Wates, Kulon Progo, on Wednesday, causing temporary road closures. Police have announced traffic diversions and alternative routes for motorists. The public is urged to follow traffic signs and officer instructions.

House Commission II to Invite Non-Parliamentary Parties for Input on Election Law Revision

The House of Representatives' Commission II plans to gather input from both parliamentary and non-parliamentary political parties as it begins limited deliberations on revising the Election Law. The move aims to improve future election administration and strengthen democratic quality. Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad confirmed that visits to non-parliamentary parties will commence next week.

9 Affordable EV Car Recommendations

The Indonesian electric vehicle market continues to grow significantly entering 2026, driven by government incentives and expanding charging infrastructure. Consumers now have a wider range of affordable EV options under Rp400 million, from compact city cars to family-friendly hatchbacks. The article highlights nine recommended models available in the Indonesian automotive market with key specifications and estimated prices.