Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 20 August 2026

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Deputy Law Minister says Air Force investigators have authority to handle airspace crimes

Deputy Law Minister Edward Omar Syarief Hiariej has stated that Indonesian Air Force investigators possess full authority to handle criminal offences in airspace under Law No. 21 of 2025. He explained that Air Force investigators may conduct complete investigations and submit case files directly to public prosecutors without going through the National Police. The government is still drafting implementing regulations to define the limits of offences that cannot be fully handled by the Air Force.

Jakarta targets 30 percent greenhouse gas emission reduction by 2030

The Jakarta provincial government has set a target to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 30 percent by 2030 as part of its goal to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. Governor Pramono Anung highlighted transport as the main focus, as it accounts for 52 percent of the capital's direct emissions. The strategy combines improving public transport with measures to discourage private vehicle use.

Video: The "Gold" Potential of Indonesian Tea

Indonesia has slipped to seventh place among global tea producers, despite once being a leading producer, while China now controls 53 percent of global output. The article examines the decline of local tea's prestige and the potential for Indonesia to develop its tea industry amid rising popularity of tea-based drinks among young people.

Deputy House Speaker highlights uneven teacher distribution across regions

Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives Cucun Ahmad Syamsurijal has called for better coordination between central government, regional administrations and universities to address the mismatch in teacher recruitment and placement. He stressed that recruitment should be based on actual school needs and regional characteristics. The Rector of Indonesia University of Education noted the issue aligns with recommendations in the upcoming National Education System Bill.

KPK examines two witnesses in alleged customs corruption case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned two witnesses in connection with an alleged corruption case within the Directorate General of Customs and Excise at the Ministry of Finance. The witnesses include a customs official and an employee of PT Blueray Cargo. The investigation has already led to the naming of several suspects, including senior customs officers and executives of the cargo company.

Welcoming Investment Ministry Team, Mayor Eri Presents Surabaya's Digital Licensing Innovations

Surabaya Mayor Eri Cahyadi presented the city's digital licensing innovations, including AI-based systems and an Investment Clinic, to a team from the Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming/BKPM. The visit was part of the 2026 Investment Service Award (ALI) verification process. Surabaya is targeting investment realisation of Rp43 trillion this year, up from around Rp35-36 trillion in previous years.

VP Gibran inspects earthquake damage, visits displaced residents

Vice President Gibran visited earthquake-affected areas in East Nusa Tenggara, reviewing evacuation sites and distributing supplies to displaced residents. The visit highlighted the government's commitment to maintaining education during the emergency and supporting post-disaster recovery. BNPB reported 71 deaths and nearly 60,000 displaced people, with aid deliveries continuing by land.

Viral Video Shows Debt Collectors Crawling Under Cars at GBK, Suspected of Tampering with Chassis Numbers

A viral video showing two suspected debt collectors crawling under vehicles at the Gelora Bung Karno complex in Central Jakarta has prompted a police investigation. Authorities are analysing the footage to determine whether the individuals were tampering with vehicle chassis numbers and whether any criminal offence occurred. Police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.

Israel Strikes Police Station in Gaza, Killing 9 Including a Child

An Israeli airstrike on a police station in Gaza City killed at least nine people, including a 13-year-old girl, according to hospital officials. The Israeli military said the strike targeted a meeting of Hamas commanders and other militants planning attacks on Israeli forces. The attack came a day after another Israeli strike on a crowded café in Gaza City killed six people.

Gibran Calls for Swifter NTT Earthquake Response, Says Don't Wait for Reports

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming has urged a faster, more integrated disaster response for communities affected by the earthquake in Nusa Tenggara Timur. During a visit to Sikka Regency, he instructed officials to go directly to the field rather than waiting for reports. He also brought psychology students from the University of Indonesia to help with trauma recovery for victims.

BI Independence Seen as Key to Maintaining Rupiah Stability

Economist Nailul Huda argues that Bank Indonesia's independence is the last line of defence for national economic stability, particularly when fiscal management is weak. He warns that monetary policy directed towards supporting government fiscal needs could undermine market credibility and trigger capital outflows. Indonesia strengthened BI's independence through Law No. 23 of 1999 following the 1997-1998 economic crisis.

Nigerian national deported from Bali after 93-day overstay

A Nigerian woman has been deported from Bali after overstaying her visa by 93 days. Immigration officials said she failed to extend her stay permit or leave Indonesia after it expired in May 2026. The case highlights ongoing efforts by Ngurah Rai Immigration Office to tighten oversight of foreign nationals.

Mongolia to ban social media use in schools from 2026-2027

Mongolia's Minister of Education and Science has announced a ban on all social media platforms in state schools starting from the 2026-2027 academic year. The measure aims to ensure online safety for students and reduce screen dependency. The ban will also prohibit school classes from managing chat groups or social media pages involving parents, teachers, and pupils.

Central Aceh Government Accelerates Relocation of Residents Around Sinkhole in Pondok Balik

The Central Aceh administration is expediting the relocation of residents from Pondok Balik village due to an expanding sinkhole that is threatening homes. The government is coordinating with the Ministry of Public Works to prepare replacement land and permanent housing, targeting completion by the end of December 2026.

Deputy Minister Fajar Reviews Gorontalo Distance Learning: Ensuring Out-of-School Children Achieve Their Dreams

Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Fajar Riza Ul Haq visited Gorontalo to review the distance learning programme (PJJ) for out-of-school children. He stressed that success is measured not only by re-enrolment but by students' consistency in completing their education. The programme faces challenges including motivation, discipline, and geographical access, requiring close cooperation between local government, schools, and families.

Democrat Acknowledges Prabowo-Gibran Coalition Secretary-General Meeting Discussed Election Law

The Democratic Party has confirmed that a meeting of secretary-generals from the Prabowo-Gibran government coalition discussed the Election Law (RUU Pemilu). The discussion comes as the House of Representatives prepares to form a special committee, with the current law still in force for the upcoming election organiser selection in October. PDIP, the sole opposition party in parliament, has expressed hope that it will not be excluded from the legislative process.

BNPT stresses energy ecosystem must receive full state protection

Indonesia's National Counter-Terrorism Agency (BNPT) has called for comprehensive state protection of the country's energy ecosystem, describing it as the lifeblood of the nation. The agency is integrating physical security, early detection, and community resilience programmes, including a coal ash recycling initiative in Banten. The move aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's target of achieving national energy self-sufficiency.

Flores Earthquake: Elderly Evacuated from Makeshift Tents to Health Posts

Search and rescue teams in East Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, are prioritising the evacuation of vulnerable groups, particularly the elderly, following the recent earthquake. An elderly resident was moved from a makeshift tent to a health post for medical assessment, while a pregnant woman was also evacuated for treatment. The operation covers several affected regencies in Flores, with coordination between Basarnas, BPBD, local governments, and the Ministry of Health.

NTB High Prosecutor's Office prepares verzet against rejection of cassation for three legislators

The Nusa Tenggara Barat High Prosecutor's Office is preparing a legal challenge against the Mataram District Court's ruling that struck out its cassation appeal over the acquittal of three regional legislators in a gratuity case. Prosecutors maintain their belief in the charges and have deferred executing the acquittal and returning Rp2.6 billion in seized funds pending the verzet. The court based its rejection on provisions of the new Criminal Procedure Code that bar prosecutors from appealing acquittals.

Indonesia denies US 'transshipment scam' allegations

The Indonesian government has rejected accusations made in a White House report that it is involved in a 'transshipment scam' to help China evade tariffs. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto said the study was based on assumptions rather than facts. The report placed Indonesia in 'Tier 2' of what it called China's Shadow Transshipment Network.

Jakarta Targets 10,000 Electric Buses in Operation by 2030

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has announced an ambitious target to have 10,000 electric buses operating in the capital by 2030, up from the current 500 units. The plan includes battery-electric, hydrogen-powered and hybrid buses as part of efforts to cut carbon emissions and tackle air pollution. TransJakarta data suggests each electric bus could save the government up to Rp302 million per year in fuel subsidies.

BSI (BRIS) CEO Reveals Interest in Developing Gold ETF Products

PT Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) has expressed interest in developing gold exchange-traded fund (ETF) products, though it is still preparing the business and regulatory aspects. The bank is also building an ecosystem for its gold savings business, aiming to channel collected gold to gold shops. BSI currently manages around 24 tonnes of gold and sees gold products as a key differentiator for acquiring new sharia banking customers.

Search for missing Indonesian crew member in Bab Al-Mandeb Strait continues

Indonesia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that the search for an Indonesian crew member missing after an attack on a vessel in the Bab Al-Mandeb Strait is still ongoing. Yemeni authorities have given assurances that the search will continue, while two surviving Indonesian crew members have been moved to a hospital in Aden. The Indonesian Embassy in Muscat is preparing to repatriate the survivors.

Pramono to Soon Decide Fate of Anies-Era Cycle Lanes, Will They Be Removed?

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo says his administration is considering removing cycle lanes from several major roads in the capital, citing public feedback that the lanes are no longer effective. He has received proposals both to scrap and to retain the lanes, including from the Bike to Work community, and has pledged to make a careful, evidence-based decision. The cycle lanes were first introduced in Jakarta in 2012.

Gus Fawait Supports Transition of Part-Time PPPK to Full-Time PPPK and Full-Time PPPK to Civil Servants

Jember Regent Muhammad Fawait has affirmed his administration's commitment to securing the status and future of government contract workers (PPPK), including part-time PPPK. He welcomed the central government's plan to convert PPPK to civil servants and part-time PPPK to full-time PPPK funded by the central budget. The regent expressed appreciation to President Prabowo Subianto and DPR leadership for providing clarity on the matter.

Haze from Kalimantan Forest Fires Blankets Sarawak

Smoke from land and forest fires in Indonesian Borneo has significantly degraded air quality across Sarawak, Malaysia, with several areas recording unhealthy pollution levels. The Sarawak Natural Resources and Environment Board attributes the haze to fires in West Kalimantan, and conditions are expected to persist as cross-border smoke continues to drift northward. Authorities have advised residents to limit outdoor activities and wear masks.

Health Ministry deploys orthopaedic doctors to treat NTT earthquake victims

Indonesia's Health Ministry has dispatched orthopaedic specialists from Makassar and Surabaya to eight districts in East Nusa Tenggara to treat earthquake victims, most of whom suffered fractures from collapsing buildings. The ministry has also confirmed that medicine supplies in affected areas are sufficient for up to five days, with additional stocks ready to be flown in if needed. The 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Nagekeo Regency on 15 August 2026 has killed 71 people and displaced nearly 60,000 residents.

DPR to regulate over-the-top media in Broadcasting Bill

The House of Representatives is drafting provisions to regulate over-the-top media platforms in the revised Broadcasting Law. Deputy Chairman of Commission I Dave Laksono said the aim is to create legal certainty and fair responsibility in the evolving media ecosystem, not to expand restrictions. The drafting process is still ongoing and specific rules on content and advertising oversight have not yet been finalised.

Residents Demand Certainty on Gilimanuk-Mengwi Toll Road, Public Works Ministry Targets 2027 Tender

Residents affected by the planned Gilimanuk-Mengwi toll road in Bali have urged the government to provide certainty over the long-delayed national strategic project. During a public consultation, community leaders called for respect for customary land and irrigation routes, while warning against using the project as a political tool. The Public Works Ministry said the environmental impact assessment is targeted for completion in 2026, with tendering expected in 2027 and operations potentially starting in 2031.

DJKI and BNI Facilitate 1,000 Free Copyright Registrations Across 33 Provinces

The Directorate General of Intellectual Property (DJKI) at the Ministry of Law, in collaboration with state-owned Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI), has facilitated the simultaneous registration of 1,000 copyrights across 33 provinces. The initiative, part of the 81st Pengayoman Day celebrations, aims to broaden public access to intellectual property protection. Officials emphasised that the programme provides legal certainty for creators and is expected to generate sustainable economic benefits.

Education Ministry distributes aid to students and teachers after NTT earthquake

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has distributed compensation and relief aid to students and teachers affected by the earthquake on Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara. Assistance included food packages, school kits, family kits, and cash compensation for injured victims and the family of a deceased pupil. Minister Abdul Mu'ti emphasised the ministry's commitment to supporting affected communities during the emergency.

Chinese property billionaire sentenced to life imprisonment for fraud

Xu Jiayin, founder of the heavily indebted Chinese property giant Evergrande Group, has been sentenced to life imprisonment by a Shenzhen court for large-scale fraud. The court also imposed fines totalling billions of yuan on Evergrande entities and sentenced 56 other individuals to prison terms. The case stems from a crackdown on excessive borrowing by Chinese property developers that plunged the country's property market into crisis.

America in Danger! Debt Heading Towards Rp 900 Quadrillion – Soon to Go Bankrupt?

The United States federal debt has officially surpassed US$40 trillion, setting a new record and raising concerns about the country's fiscal sustainability. Rapid debt accumulation, rising interest payments, and demographic pressures are straining the budget, with projections suggesting the debt could reach US$50 trillion within six years. While the US is unlikely to collapse due to the dollar's global role, the growing debt burden is already affecting bond markets and could increasingly pressure consumers and businesses.

DPR Deputy Speaker Proposes 'Superbody' Agency for Disaster Management

Syaiful Huda, Deputy Chairman of House Commission V, has proposed establishing a new dedicated agency with broad authority to handle natural disasters, following the magnitude 7 earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. He argues that a single, well-coordinated institution would improve effectiveness and speed in both emergency response and post-disaster recovery. Huda also stressed that funding must not become an obstacle in the NTT earthquake response.

China grants visa-free transit to Kyrgyz and Vietnamese citizens

China has extended its 240-hour visa-free transit policy and 30-day visa-free entry to Hainan province to citizens of Kyrgyzstan and Vietnam. The move is intended to boost openness, tourism, trade and investment with neighbouring countries. The policy brings the total number of countries covered by the transit scheme to 57 and the Hainan scheme to 61.

Four Laundry Services in Bogor Sealed by KLH for Allegedly Polluting Bekasi River

The Ministry of Environment has sealed four laundry businesses in Bogor Regency suspected of polluting the Bekasi River, which recently turned black and emitted a pungent odour. Officials are conducting further inspections and water sampling, with the possibility of additional parties being sanctioned. The pollution has prompted coordinated action from central and regional environmental agencies.

Pramono Anung Still Considering Fate of Jakarta's Bicycle Lanes

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung says he is still weighing whether to retain, manage, or remove the capital's bicycle lanes, citing conflicting views from cycling communities and other residents. The Bike to Work community wants the lanes kept, while some members of the public argue they are ineffective because motorcyclists often use them. Pramono stressed that his decision will be based on policy considerations rather than his personal hobby as a cyclist.

Febrie Adriansyah's Pretrial Hearing Tests Administrative Procedure for Investigation Order

A pretrial hearing at the South Jakarta District Court is examining the administrative legality of the investigation order issued against former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah. The court heard expert testimony from constitutional law professor Rasji regarding the authority of the Director of Investigation to sign the document. The hearing aims to determine whether the Attorney General's Office followed proper procedures in its seizure and search actions.

Man Missing While Searching for Seaweed in Rote Ndao Found Dead

A 66-year-old man who went missing while tending to a seaweed farm in Rote Ndao Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, has been found dead. The joint search and rescue team located the body approximately 200 metres from the initial site on the second day of operations. The victim has been handed over to his family for burial.

Finance Minister Purbaya Shops at KKI 2026, Buys Up MSME Products and Promises to Return

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa visited Bank Indonesia's Karya Kreatif Indonesia (KKI) 2026 exhibition and purchased various MSME products, expressing admiration for their quality and pledging to return the following day. The event, themed 'Mesare Sare' or 'empowered together', involves 27 ministries and agencies and features over 1,800 MSMEs. Bank Indonesia emphasised the sector's critical role, noting that MSMEs absorb 97% of the national workforce and contribute more than 60% to GDP.

BSI (BRIS) Pushes for Gold Savings to Have Deposit Insurance

PT Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) is advocating for gold savings products within the bullion bank ecosystem to be covered by deposit insurance. President Director Anggoro Eko Cahyo acknowledged that no such guarantee currently exists, but said the bank has begun discussions with Bank Indonesia. BSI has already obtained regulatory approval to operate gold savings and is currently preparing its business model and market.

43 Foreign Nationals Suspected of Love Scamming in Surabaya to Face Trial Soon

An international cybercrime syndicate involving 43 foreign nationals from China, Japan and Taiwan, along with three Indonesian citizens, is set to face trial in Surabaya. The suspects are accused of running an organised love scam operation that defrauded victims through fake romantic relationships on dating platforms and social media. Prosecutors have received the case files and evidence after investigators declared the investigation complete.

BMKG Hang Nadim: Beware of Rain on Land and High Waves at Sea Today

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) at Hang Nadim Station in Batam has issued a weather warning for Batam and surrounding waters. Moderate to heavy rain with lightning and strong winds is expected between 10.17 and 12.20 WIB, alongside potential high waves at sea. Residents and maritime users are urged to remain vigilant and monitor official BMKG updates.

Video: 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes NTT, a Stark Warning of Indonesia's Disaster Risk

A 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck East Nusa Tenggara on 15 August, just two days before Indonesia's 81st Independence Day commemoration. The quake ranks among the strongest to hit Indonesia this year and one of the largest globally in 2026. The event has renewed focus on why eastern Indonesia is so prone to seismic activity and how prepared the country is for future disasters.

Indonesia Bullion Market Association Officially Launched to Strengthen National Gold Market Ecosystem

The Indonesia Bullion Market Association (IBMA) has been officially launched in Jakarta as a coordination platform for gold industry players and a strategic partner for the government. The association, initiated by 11 companies, aims to develop a more credible, efficient, and sustainable bullion market through standardisation, education, and ecosystem strengthening. The government has also prepared a Bullion Ecosystem Development Roadmap for 2026–2031 to guide the sector's growth.

PT MPG supports 3,000 Red and White flag programme to enliven Indonesia's Independence Day in Aceh

PT Meulaboh Power Generation has backed a local government initiative in Nagan Raya, Aceh, to distribute 3,000 Indonesian flags ahead of the 81st Independence Day anniversary. The company handed over the flags through the district's National Unity and Political Agency and the local military command for distribution to sub-districts and villages. The programme aims to boost nationalism and encourage residents to fly the flag during the independence celebrations.

Two Babies Born Under Emergency Tents as Earthquake Shakes NTT

Two babies were delivered under emergency tents at Aeramo Regional Hospital in Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara, after a magnitude 7.7 earthquake and thousands of aftershocks damaged the facility and cut power. Medical staff performed an emergency caesarean on a premature breech baby amid continuing tremors, with both births successful. The article highlights the dedication of health workers who remained on duty despite the risk of building collapse.

Commemorating 81st Independence Day, Tanah Abang Residents Enthusiastically Join People's Feast

Thousands of residents in Tanah Abang, Central Jakarta, took part in a People's Feast organised by the subdistrict's three pillars to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The event featured free staple food distribution, an SME bazaar, free health checks, and entertainment. Organisers said the programme aimed to ensure the benefits of independence are directly felt by the community.

IDX Discusses Removal of Rp50 Minimum Share Price with Market Players

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) is preparing to remove the Rp50 minimum share price limit, known as 'saham gocap', currently applied in the regular market. The move aims to provide more flexible transaction space and support more effective price discovery for investors. The exchange has begun consulting with market stakeholders, including securities firms and investment managers, before finalising the regulation.

MPR Deputy Speaker urges young legislators to improve democratic quality

Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Eddy Soeparno has called on young legislators to play a greater role in strengthening Indonesia's democracy. He argued that the younger generation in parliament is strategically positioned to raise standards in legislation, oversight and representation. Eddy emphasised the need to shift from procedural democracy towards substantive democracy that delivers tangible benefits to the public.