Archive: 20 August 2026
Showing 701-750 of 1,593 articles
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:22 WIB
Airlangga urges 20 percent of 'under the mattress' gold to enter bullion ecosystem
Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has called on state-owned pawnbroker Pegadaian and Bank Syariah Indonesia to bring 20 percent of the estimated 1,800 tonnes of privately held gold into the formal bullion ecosystem. The move is part of the government's broader downstreaming policy and follows the launch of the Indonesia Bullion Market Association. Airlangga said the association marks a new phase in developing an efficient, liquid, transparent and integrated bullion market.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:21 WIB
North Korea reportedly launches 10 short-range ballistic missiles
North Korea fired around 10 short-range ballistic missiles from the Pyongyang area towards the Sea of Japan on Thursday, according to South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff. The projectiles fell outside Japan's Exclusive Economic Zone. The launch follows an earlier alert from the Japan Coast Guard about a suspected ballistic missile.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:21 WIB
Molinas Projected to Cut Fuel Subsidies by Rp82.2 Trillion
Indonesia's National Electric Motorcycle Programme (Molinas) is projected to save Rp82.2 trillion in fuel subsidies by 2037, based on an assumed 11 million electric motorcycles in operation. The programme is also expected to reduce foreign energy dependence by Rp45 trillion through import substitution and generate Rp150 trillion in economic value between 2026 and 2031. President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated the programme on 13 August 2026 at the ALVA production facility in Cikarang.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:20 WIB
GSMA: Mobile operators help build AI ecosystem, strengthen national digital sovereignty
GSMA says Indonesian mobile operators are shifting from pure connectivity providers to active builders of the national artificial intelligence ecosystem, a move that can strengthen the country's digital sovereignty. The industry body highlights initiatives by Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison and Telkom as examples of this trend. GSMA's Asia Pacific head Julian Gorman said the strong interest and participation of Indonesian operators can support the creation of digital sovereignty.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:20 WIB
Purbaya Prepares New Strategy for MSMEs, PIP and LPEI to Be Deployed
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa plans to strengthen government support for micro, small, and medium enterprises by optimising the roles of the Government Investment Centre (PIP) and the Indonesia Eximbank (LPEI). The initiative aims to broaden financing access and open export market opportunities for MSMEs, which are considered the backbone of the national economy. Purbaya will summon PIP management to discuss new strategies and expects LPEI to support MSMEs with export potential.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:19 WIB
Finance Minister Purbaya: US bond buyback confirms Indonesia's policy is on the right track
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has said the United States' decision to double its government bond buyback programme validates Indonesia's earlier adoption of a similar policy. He noted that both countries share the same concern about maintaining liquidity in the financial system. The US Treasury increased its buyback ceiling from $2 billion to at least $4 billion per operation to curb a sell-off and contain long-term yield spikes.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:18 WIB
Joint team extinguishes 10.65 ha wildfire in East Kalimantan's Penajam
A coordinated effort involving government agencies, security forces, private companies, and local residents successfully extinguished a 10.65-hectare wildfire in North Penajam Paser, East Kalimantan. The fire was detected through routine patrols and the Lembuswana monitoring system, prompting a rapid response that continued into the night. Cooling operations resumed the following morning to address remaining embers and smouldering hotspots.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:17 WIB
Celios: Ojol MSME status must not ignore social protection
The Center of Economic and Law Studies (Celios) has cautioned that plans to classify online motorcycle taxi drivers as micro-enterprises should not distract the government from ensuring their social protection. Celios digital economy director Nailul Huda stressed that drivers must be covered by health and employment insurance regardless of their formal status. He also questioned the need to categorise ojol as MSMEs solely to access financing such as KUR.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:17 WIB
Hotspots in Kalimantan Reach 1,487 Points, Central Kalimantan the Highest
Indonesia's disaster mitigation agency has reported 1,487 hotspots across Kalimantan, with Central Kalimantan recording the highest concentration at 767 points. The government is strengthening cross-sector coordination and preparedness to anticipate the potential spread of forest and land fires during the dry season. Local authorities and the public have been urged to remain vigilant and avoid burning activities in fire-prone areas.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:17 WIB
Legal Expert Urges Attorney General's Office to Intervene in East Timor Veterans' Housing and Cipta Karya Cases
Criminal law expert Abdul Fickar Hadjar has called on prosecutors to thoroughly investigate alleged corruption in the renovation of the Cipta Karya building at the Ministry of Public Works and a Rp400 billion housing project for former East Timor fighters in East Nusa Tenggara. He stressed that investigators must act independently and examine all officials with knowledge of the projects, regardless of rank. Hadjar also recommended that the East Nusa Tenggara High Prosecutor's Office coordinate with the Attorney General's Office due to key witnesses being based in Jakarta.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:17 WIB
Disease control must adapt to disaster type: BRIN
Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has urged that post-disaster disease control be tailored to the specific type of disaster, rather than applying a uniform approach. Researcher Ristiyanto highlighted that volcanic eruptions require intensive rat and plague surveillance, while floods demand sanitation and mosquito control, and tsunamis call for widespread indoor insecticide spraying. He called on policymakers to conduct rapid transmission studies and implement targeted interventions before disease cases surge.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:16 WIB
Synergistic Collaboration of the Three Sunda Kecil Governors Amid the Flores Earthquake
The governors of Bali, West Nusa Tenggara, and East Nusa Tenggara have demonstrated regional solidarity by coordinating humanitarian assistance for victims of the Flores earthquake. Their joint response operationalises the 'Golden Triangle' cooperation agreement signed earlier in 2026, which aims to integrate tourism, connectivity, economic supply chains, renewable energy, and spatial planning across the Sunda Kecil region.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:15 WIB
IDX ready to lower minimum share price limit to Rp1
The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) plans to reduce the minimum share price limit on the regular and cash markets from Rp50 to Rp1 per share. The move is intended to broaden trading access and improve price discovery, with implementation targeted for 7 September 2026. The exchange has consulted market participants and global investors ahead of the change.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:15 WIB
Indonesia's Geothermal Energy Turns 100 Years Old, Here's Its Impact on the Economy
PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy highlights the significant economic multiplier effects of geothermal development as Indonesia marks a century of geothermal utilisation. The company points to the Kamojang field in West Java as evidence of sustainable community empowerment, while the government targets increased investment and non-tax state revenue from the sector. Indonesia currently ranks second globally in installed geothermal capacity but has only tapped around 11.6% of its total potential.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:13 WIB
IDX Questions Toba Pulp (INRU) Over Rp2 Trillion Tax Corruption Allegations, Here Is Its Response
PT Toba Pulp Lestari Tbk (TPL) has responded to reports alleging its involvement in a Rp2 trillion transfer pricing corruption case at the Directorate General of Taxes. The company stated it is still reviewing and verifying the information and has not yet identified any additional material impact on its business continuity. TPL also said it has not received official information confirming whether any directors, commissioners, or employees are implicated in the legal matter.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:12 WIB
Attending 81st Indonesian Independence Day Ceremony at Palace, GP Ansor Commits to Supporting Government
GP Ansor's central leadership attended the 81st Independence Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace, symbolising the continuing role of youth in nation-building. Chairman Rangga Afianto declared the organisation's firm support for President Prabowo Subianto's programmes and the Red and White Cabinet. He stressed that this support must be realised through concrete work in society, not merely symbolic gestures.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:12 WIB
South African national found dead in Bandung apartment
A 33-year-old South African national was found dead in his apartment at The Jarrdin in Bandung, West Java. Police suspect he died of a heart attack after witnesses noticed an unpleasant odour coming from the locked room. The body has been evacuated to Sartika Asih Hospital for further handling.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:12 WIB
Gibran meets mothers and babies in emergency tents to ensure needs are met
Vice President Gibran Rakabuming visited TC Hillers Regional Hospital in Maumere, Sikka Regency, to inspect emergency post-earthquake care facilities and speak with new mothers. He instructed hospital management to improve tent coverings and assured patients that post-disaster handling would be enhanced. The visit was part of a broader tour of earthquake-affected areas in East Nusa Tenggara, where 71 deaths and nearly 60,000 displaced people have been recorded.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:11 WIB
North Korea Fires Projectile Suspected to Be Ballistic Missile
North Korea has launched a projectile suspected to be a ballistic missile, according to reports from Japan and South Korea. The launch occurred hours after US President Donald Trump said he would meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un by the end of the year. The move has raised concerns among US allies in Asia amid speculation about Trump's foreign policy ambitions.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:11 WIB
Geopolitical Conditions Bring 'Blessings' for Data Centre Investment in Indonesia
Geopolitical tensions are driving a surge in data centre investment in Indonesia, with UAE-based DAMAC Digital reportedly expanding its planned capacity from 120 MW to 2 GW. The US ban on Nvidia H200 chip exports to China is also redirecting AI server activity through Indonesia. Industry leaders estimate that reaching 1.7 GW of data centre capacity could generate Rp 1.7 trillion per month in revenue for state utility PLN.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:11 WIB
Prosecutors Reveal Heru Anggara's First Movements After Murdering Politician's Child
Prosecutors in Cilegon have detailed the movements of Heru Anggara following the murder of a nine-year-old child, the son of a local PKS politician. The defendant allegedly cleaned evidence at a prayer room near Balung Cemetery, replaced his motorcycle seat cover, and disposed of clothing and other items at a market rubbish dump. He faces charges under the Criminal Code and child protection laws.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:10 WIB
China Completes First Phase of New 'Fortress' in South China Sea
China has completed the first phase of construction on Antelope Reef in the disputed Paracel Islands, creating an artificial island nearly six kilometres long. Satellite imagery reveals facilities including a helicopter pad and a 680-metre pier, with analysts suggesting a runway may follow. Security experts warn the site could become one of Beijing's most strategically important military assets in the northern South China Sea.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:09 WIB
International concerts open doors for 27.4 mln creative workers: Govt
Indonesia's Creative Economy Ministry says international concerts such as Andrea Bocelli's upcoming performance can generate significant economic ripple effects for the country's 27.4 million creative workers. The events are expected to create jobs, enable knowledge transfer, and showcase local fashion, culinary, and craft products to both domestic and foreign audiences. The ministry also plans to use the Creative Village concept to connect local businesses with broader markets.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:09 WIB
Forest and Land Fires Spread, 415 Hectares of Land in West Kutai, East Kalimantan Burned
Forest and land fires in West Kutai Regency, East Kalimantan, have expanded to 72 locations, burning a total of 415.51 hectares as of Wednesday. The local disaster mitigation agency reports a significant increase in daily hotspots, with Barong Tongkok and Damai sub-districts causing particular concern. Firefighting efforts in Damai are hampered by difficult terrain and limited water access.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:09 WIB
Lampung Governor Says Golden Indonesia Begins with Today's Children's Education
Lampung Governor Rahmat Mirzani Djausal has emphasised that the nation's future depends on nurturing today's children, linking the commemoration of National Children's Day and Indonesia's 81st Independence Day to the goal of a Golden Indonesia by 2045. Speaking at a joint exercise event in Bandar Lampung, he called for healthy lifestyles and strong adult support for children's development. Kalbe Consumer Health also highlighted its nutrition campaign to support the government's Golden Generation 2045 programme.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:09 WIB
Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs says Molinas saves Rp82.2 trillion in fuel subsidies
The Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs has stated that the National Electric Motorcycle (Molinas) programme will deliver Rp82.2 trillion in fuel subsidy savings between 2027 and 2037, assuming 11 million units are in operation by 2037. The programme is also projected to generate Rp150 trillion in economic value from 2026 to 2031 and create around 215,000 jobs. President Prabowo Subianto officially launched Molinas on 13 August 2026 at the ALVA production facility in Cikarang, West Java.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:08 WIB
Pelni Baubau offers free aid shipment for NTT earthquake victims
State-owned shipping company PT Pelni's Baubau branch has opened a free humanitarian aid delivery service for communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The initiative follows central management directives coordinated with the Ministry of Transportation and the Directorate General of Sea Transportation. The service aims to accelerate the distribution of essential supplies to disaster-affected areas.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:08 WIB
Bahlil Opens Door to DBH Revision, Anwar Hafid Fights for Justice for Central Sulawesi
Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has signalled openness to revising the revenue-sharing fund (DBH) policy to ensure fairer distribution for mineral-producing regions. Central Sulawesi Governor Anwar Hafid argued that Morowali and North Morowali, now major nickel processing hubs, should be recognised for their contribution beyond raw material extraction. The minister said the government would review the policy and consider revisions to reflect regional burdens and contributions.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:07 WIB
Gulkarmat extinguishes rubbish fire in Kampung Bahari, North Jakarta
A rubbish fire broke out in Kampung Bahari, Tanjung Priok, North Jakarta, on Thursday afternoon, allegedly caused by a discarded cigarette butt. The North Jakarta and Seribu Islands Fire and Rescue Service deployed 20 personnel and four fire engines to extinguish the blaze. The fire affected a 25-square-metre rubbish pile belonging to the Environmental Agency and was fully extinguished within about 45 minutes.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:07 WIB
Guncangan Datang Bergelombang, Fundamental Ekonomi Indonesia Tak Tergoyahkan
Indonesia's economic fundamentals remain resilient despite global shocks, with GDP growth above 5%, inflation under control, and S&P Global Ratings affirming its investment grade status with a stable outlook. However, Bank Indonesia and lawmakers acknowledge that market confidence and perception still lag behind the strong macroeconomic indicators, prompting coordinated efforts to strengthen trust and improve governance of natural resource exports.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:07 WIB
Airlangga Denies Indonesia Is a Transshipment Route for Chinese Goods to the US
Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has rejected claims in a White House report that Indonesia serves as a transshipment route for Chinese products destined for the United States. He said the government was never involved in or informed about the study, and dismissed assumptions that Indonesian manufacturing is integrated with China for re-export to the US. Airlangga also pointed out that Indonesia's plastic packaging industry is largely domestic and sources raw materials from local petrochemical producers.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:05 WIB
Police to Apply Restorative Justice in Pandji 'Toraja' Case: Customary Sanction Already Imposed
The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has confirmed that the case against comedian Pandji Pragiwaksono for alleged hate speech targeting the Toraja community will be resolved through restorative justice. This follows a customary Toraja hearing in which Pandji was sanctioned and required to apologise to the ancestors and pay a fine of one pig and five chickens. Police stated that the customary sanction and the living law principle will be considered in determining whether Pandji should be named a suspect.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:05 WIB
Companion of the Prophet Known as Aminul Ummah, His Piety Led to the Revelation of QS Al-Mujadalah Verse 22
The article recounts the story of Abu Ubaidah bin Jarrah, a trusted companion of the Prophet Muhammad who was given the title Aminul Ummah, or Trustee of the Ummah. It explains that his piety and detachment from worldly life were so profound that they were associated with the revelation of verse 22 of Surah Al-Mujadalah. The piece draws on classical Islamic sources to highlight his status and the Quranic passage affirming the believers' loyalty to God over familial ties.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:05 WIB
Road Cut Off, Three Villages in Mapitara Isolated and Logistics Distribution Disrupted
Three villages in Mapitara District, Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, have been cut off after landslides blocked the only road connecting them to the Trans Flores highway. The closure is hampering the distribution of food, aid, and health services in the aftermath of an earthquake. Local officials have appealed for heavy equipment to reopen the route urgently.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:03 WIB
NTB and Bali Governors Visit NTT Earthquake Victims in Show of Solidarity
The governors of West Nusa Tenggara and Bali visited earthquake-affected areas in East Nusa Tenggara to demonstrate regional solidarity under the Bali-NTB-NTT cooperation framework. They received briefings on damage assessments showing over 7,300 homes affected and ongoing relief distribution. The visit underscores the strong inter-provincial bonds and was praised by the Home Affairs Minister as a model of effective regional cooperation.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:03 WIB
BI Tahan BI Rate 5,75%: SRBI Masih Seksi di Mata Investor, Saham Belum Jadi Pilihan
Bank Indonesia has kept its benchmark interest rate at 5.75%, but foreign investors continue to favour Bank Indonesia Rupiah Securities (SRBI) over equities due to their attractive yields and limited risk. Analysts suggest that if SRBI's appeal wanes, government bonds (SBN) are likely to be the first destination for foreign fund rotation before any significant shift into the stock market.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:02 WIB
Villages Ministry maximises non-state budget efforts to improve village welfare
Villages and Underdeveloped Regions Minister Yandri Susanto has outlined efforts to improve village welfare through multi-party cooperation and funding sources outside the state budget. The ministry is partnering with Japan's Hakko Fukushikai Foundation for a youth village development programme and with China's New Hope Fintech to empower village-owned enterprises. The initiatives received support from House of Representatives Commission V during a working meeting in Jakarta.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:02 WIB
Two Killed by Commuter Trains Today: High School Student in Kalideres and Elderly Man in Tebet
Two separate incidents involving people being struck by commuter trains occurred in Jakarta on Thursday morning, resulting in the deaths of an 18-year-old high school student and an 80-year-old man. Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has called for stronger coordination with railway operator PT KAI to improve safety along rail corridors.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:02 WIB
JCI Climbs After BI Keeps Rate at 5.75%
The Jakarta Composite Index rose 0.83% at Thursday's opening after Bank Indonesia held its benchmark rate at 5.75% for a second consecutive month, a move aimed at supporting rupiah stability and economic growth. Analysts noted that investment is becoming a key growth driver, with the central bank maintaining its 2026 GDP forecast of 4.9% to 5.7%. Improved global sentiment, including larger US Treasury buybacks and gains on Wall Street, also supported the market.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:02 WIB
Riau Forest and Land Fires Spread to Eight Locations Due to El Nino Godzilla
Peatland fires in Riau Province continue to spread due to extreme hot weather and the El Nino Godzilla effect. Manggala Agni teams are battling blazes at eight locations across several regencies, with the largest fire in Indragiri Hulu covering 434.35 hectares. Firefighting operations include mopping up to extinguish underground peat fires.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:01 WIB
1,487 Hotspots Detected Across Kalimantan, Most in Central Kalimantan
Indonesia's disaster mitigation agency has detected 1,487 forest and land fire hotspots across Kalimantan, with Central Kalimantan recording the highest number at 767. The government is strengthening cross-sector coordination and urging local authorities and communities to remain vigilant during the dry season.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:01 WIB
BPBD NTT: 6,541 homes in West Manggarai damaged by Flores earthquake
The East Nusa Tenggara Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has recorded 6,541 damaged homes in West Manggarai Regency following the earthquake that struck Flores. The disaster also caused damage to government offices, schools, health facilities, places of worship and hotels, leaving two people dead, 100 injured and 695 displaced. Emergency response efforts are ongoing, with urgent needs including tents, beds, mats, ready-to-eat meals and rice.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:00 WIB
Cross-Border Haze Forces School Closures in Sarawak, Malaysia
Thick haze from cross-border sources has forced education authorities in Sarawak, Malaysia to close schools across eight districts for two days. The closures are a preventive measure to protect students and staff from unhealthy air quality, with six areas recording Air Pollutant Index readings between 125 and 191. Home-based learning has been mandated to ensure academic continuity during the emergency.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:00 WIB
China and America Compete for Chips, Prices Soar
Samsung Electronics has raised prices for advanced chip manufacturing services by up to 15% amid surging AI demand and tightening global production capacity. Chinese customers face the steepest increases as US export restrictions push them to rely more on foreign chipmakers. The price hikes could help Samsung's foundry business return to profitability sooner than expected.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 16:00 WIB
No Need to Visit Community Health Centre: Jakarta's White Corps Checks Residents' Health Door-to-Door
The Jakarta provincial government's White Corps health workers are conducting monthly door-to-door health screenings for residents with limited mobility in Duren Sawit. The programme aims to bring basic health services directly to those who struggle to reach healthcare facilities. Checks include blood pressure, blood sugar, uric acid, and cholesterol, alongside healthy lifestyle education.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:59 WIB
Kalimantan Engulfed by Forest Fire Haze, Transport Minister Warns Airlines
Forest and land fires across Kalimantan have caused thick smoke that is disrupting flight operations, with some cancellations reported in West Kalimantan due to poor visibility. Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has urged all airlines to exercise caution and closely monitor weather information from the meteorology agency. Air quality in Palangka Raya reached hazardous levels, with visibility dropping to around 1.4 kilometres in some areas.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:59 WIB
West Manggarai Regency distributes earthquake aid to northern coastal areas
The West Manggarai Regency government, together with various stakeholders, has begun distributing social assistance to communities affected by the Flores earthquake in the northern coastal areas of East Nusa Tenggara. Rice, bottled water, and ready-to-eat meals were delivered to several islands, with logistical challenges overcome through cross-sector collaboration. The distribution prioritised the northern coast while preparations continue for other islands.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:58 WIB
House Commission VIII Chair Says Proposed 2027 Hajj Costs Burden the Public
Marwan Dasopang, chair of House Commission VIII, has rejected the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah's proposal to raise the 2027 Hajj pilgrimage cost to Rp 107 million, calling it burdensome and financially ill-conceived. He argued the increase should be rationalised to around Rp 92 million, based on a 6% currency depreciation, and confirmed the commission would not approve the proposed 60/40 benefit-sharing scheme.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:57 WIB
Fernando Tours NTT Earthquake Sites: Air Ambulances Vital for Saving Lives
Gerindra Party official Fernando Jose Osorio Soares has called for the central government to expedite its air ambulance programme after visiting earthquake-affected areas in East Nusa Tenggara. He highlighted the severe shortage of medical staff, with one health centre serving 5,774 residents with just one doctor and 15 nurses. Fernando argued that air transport is essential in the archipelagic province, where long distances and difficult terrain directly threaten patient survival.
Thu, 20 Aug 2026, 15:56 WIB
DIY incorporates Kejogjaan Special Education into higher education tridharma
The Yogyakarta Special Region government, in collaboration with LLDikti Yogyakarta, has integrated Kejogjaan Special Education into the tridharma activities of higher education institutions across the province. Governor Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X stated that the initiative aims to ensure local values contribute to national education policy rather than remain a regional exception. The programme seeks to connect the palace, campus, and village as spaces for values, critical knowledge, and lived reality.