Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 20 August 2026

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Foreign Ministry: National Capacity Maximised for NTT Earthquake Response, Foreign Aid Not Yet Needed

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has stated that the government is prioritising domestic resources to handle the aftermath of the 7.7 magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, with foreign assistance deemed unnecessary at this stage. The ministry expressed appreciation for international solidarity while confirming that discussions on potential aid may continue in upcoming bilateral meetings. The death toll has risen to 71, with over 398 tonnes of domestic aid already distributed to affected areas.

Indonesia deports Palestinian, Nigerian nationals over visa violations

Indonesian immigration authorities have deported a Palestinian and a Nigerian national for violating the country's immigration laws. The Palestinian had overstayed their visa, while the Nigerian could not present valid travel documents or a residence permit. Officials emphasised that the deportations were carried out professionally and in accordance with humanitarian principles, reinforcing Indonesia's commitment to legal certainty and national sovereignty.

AI transformation in the payment sector needs to be carried out in stages

Industry experts at the Prima Executive Gathering 2026 in Bali emphasised that artificial intelligence adoption in Indonesia's payment and financial services sector should be gradual and tailored to each organisation's needs. They highlighted the importance of governance, human-in-the-loop mechanisms, and cross-functional involvement beyond just technology teams. The discussion underscored that effective AI implementation is measured by business outcomes rather than the sheer volume of technology deployed.

FM Sugiono to visit Australia, New Zealand to strengthen ties

Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono will visit Australia and New Zealand to attend high-level bilateral meetings, including the Indonesia-Australia 2+2 Foreign and Defense Ministers' Meeting in Melbourne and the Indonesia-New Zealand Joint Ministerial Commission in Auckland. The discussions will focus on security cooperation, economic resilience, and bilateral programme implementation ahead of the 70th anniversary of Indonesia-New Zealand diplomatic relations. The tour follows recent strategic dialogue with China, underscoring Indonesia's active regional diplomacy.

BMKG: Yesterday's Rain in Jakarta Was Not Due to Weather Modification

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has clarified that rain in Jakarta on Wednesday occurred naturally, not as a result of cloud seeding. The agency attributed the rainfall to converging moist air masses from the Indian and Pacific Oceans. BMKG also forecast that most of Indonesia will remain dry until the rainy season begins around mid-October.

Bamus Betawi urges Pati residents not to mobilise masses to Jakarta

The Betawi customary council has called on residents of Pati, Central Java, to refrain from sending large numbers of demonstrators to Jakarta for a planned protest at the DPR building on 27 August 2026. The group is demanding the passage of the Asset Forfeiture Bill. Bamus Betawi supports anti-corruption efforts but urges that aspirations be conveyed through proper legal channels.

Lancia Consult Earns Great Place To Work® Certification™ in Four Countries

Lancia Consult has received Great Place To Work® Certification™ across the UK, Singapore, Indonesia, and South Africa, with 99% of employees rating it as a good workplace. The independent survey highlights consistent trust, collaboration, and open leadership across all levels of the organisation. The consultancy views this recognition as validation of its people-first culture underpinning high-quality client work.

Public Works Minister sends water tankers to earthquake-affected residents in NTT

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo has dispatched public hydrants and mobile water tankers to meet clean water needs in earthquake-affected areas of Nusa Tenggara Timur. The assistance targets Ende and Nagekeo regencies, where access to water is particularly difficult due to the dry conditions on Flores Island. The ministry is also preparing to address sanitation issues that may arise in the aftermath of the disaster.

Gibran calls for basic needs of quake-affected residents to be prioritised

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has instructed that the basic needs of residents affected by the earthquake in Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, be made the top priority in disaster response. He urged regional leaders and the Forkopimda to go directly to the field to ensure aid reaches all communities, including those in hard-to-access mountainous areas. Gibran also pledged to report any obstacles found on the ground to President Prabowo Subianto.

Vice President Gibran Visits NTT Earthquake Victims, Meets Mother Who Just Gave Birth

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka visited earthquake victims at TC Hillers Hospital in Maumere, Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, on Thursday. He inspected emergency treatment facilities and spoke with patients, including a mother who had just given birth to a baby girl after the earthquake. The Vice President assured that post-earthquake handling would continue to be improved.

Flores Earthquake Displaced Persons Reach 66,363

The death toll from the magnitude 7.7 earthquake in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, has risen to 75, with 66,363 people displaced and 266 seriously injured. Nagekeo Regency hosts the largest number of displaced persons at 29,471, followed by East Manggarai with 19,330. Health authorities report 68 patients are being treated across six referral hospitals as local governments continue data collection and relief efforts.

House Commission V: Institutional integration needed for disaster management

Deputy Chairman of House Commission V Syaiful Huda has called for the consolidation of Indonesia's disaster management institutions under a single command structure. He argued that disaster budgets should be centralised in one agency and then distributed to other bodies according to their respective tasks and functions. Huda also stressed the need for dedicated reserve funds to ensure disaster response extends beyond the emergency phase.

How Much Does It Cost to Charge a Wuling Air EV at Home? Here Are the Details

Charging a Wuling Air EV at home in Indonesia costs less than Rp50,000 for a full charge, even for the Long Range variant, based on PLN electricity tariffs for the July–September 2026 period. Factoring in charging losses of 10–15%, the estimated energy cost is around Rp125–Rp160 per kilometre, significantly cheaper than conventional city cars. Wall charger installation adds a one-off cost starting from Rp6.8 million for the unit alone, or around Rp14 million for a complete package including installation and PLN power adjustment.

1,378 Schools Affected by NTT Earthquake, Government Prepares Emergency Classrooms

The 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Nusa Tenggara Timur has damaged 1,378 educational institutions, affecting over 177,000 students and 21,000 teachers. The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is deploying emergency tents, learning materials, and psychosocial support while most schools shift to home-based or online learning. At least one student has died, and the government has provided compensation to affected families.

BPOM, URI explore AI training for future leaders

Indonesia's Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) is collaborating with URI to develop AI-focused vocational education and leadership training, aiming to strengthen the national talent pipeline for drug and food supervision. The initiative includes AI-based decision simulation laboratories and a proposed centre for AI ethics, regulation, and auditing. BPOM currently has only 60 percent of its required workforce, underscoring the urgency of specialised human-resource development.

Bekasi Regency Government distributes 5.7 million litres of water to drought-affected residents

The Bekasi Regency Government has distributed 5.7 million litres of clean water to residents affected by drought since the initial distribution on 9 June, as part of efforts to prevent a water crisis during the 2026 dry season. The aid has reached 65,659 people across 35 villages in 11 sub-districts, with the southern part of the regency experiencing the most severe conditions. Local authorities are also addressing the impact on 1,827 hectares of productive agricultural land through pumping programmes and other mitigation measures.

Indonesia Stock Exchange Ready to Lower Minimum Share Price Limit to Rp 1

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) plans to reduce the minimum share price for regular and cash markets from Rp 50 to Rp 1 per share, aiming to improve liquidity and price discovery. The policy will also revise auto rejection limits and is scheduled for implementation on 7 September 2026. Analysts have welcomed the move but cautioned that investor protection and fundamental analysis must be strengthened to prevent speculation.

Police Assert Search and Seizure in Febrie Case Complied with Regulations

The Indonesian National Police have defended the legality of searches and seizures conducted in the corruption and money laundering case involving former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah. Police officials stated the actions were procedurally sound and relevant to the alleged offences. The statement was made during a pretrial hearing at the South Jakarta District Court.

Hundreds of Hotspots Surround Bangka Belitung, BPBD Urges Residents to Be Alert for Forest and Land Fires

The Bangka Belitung Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) has reported 166 hotspots across six regencies in the province, raising concerns over potential forest and land fires. The agency attributes the surge to extreme weather and strong winds, and has urged local BPBD offices to verify and extinguish any fires promptly. Residents have been advised to avoid burning rubbish or discarding cigarette butts carelessly.

KPK to question foreigners in immigration extortion case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is preparing to question foreign nationals as part of its investigation into an alleged extortion scheme involving residence permit processing. Investigators aim to establish whether the foreigners were aware they were being extorted and whether immigration agents informed them of the scheme. The case has already led to the dismissal of Deputy Minister Silmy Karim and the naming of eight suspects, with alleged proceeds totalling Rp145.5 billion.

Why is the US Pressuring the International Criminal Court?

The United States has imposed sanctions on senior International Criminal Court officials, accusing the tribunal of being corrupt and politicised. The move marks a significant escalation in Washington's long-running campaign against the court, which has issued arrest warrants for leaders including Vladimir Putin and Benjamin Netanyahu. Legal experts warn the pressure could create a chilling effect on the court's work and lead to overcompliance by international businesses.

Jakarta sends Rp5.8 billion in aid for earthquake victims in NTT

The Jakarta provincial government has dispatched Rp5.8 billion worth of assistance to communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The aid includes food, shelter equipment, medicines, clean water facilities and cash, with further collections open until 25 August 2026. Distribution is being coordinated through the national logistics system involving BNPB and the Indonesian military.

Navy secures Rp10.25 trillion in mining resources in 2026

The Indonesian Navy has reported securing 514.1 tonnes of mining commodities worth Rp10.25 trillion through operations across 2026, a sharp increase from the previous year. The figure includes illegal tin sand seized in Bangka Belitung in August. The Navy emphasised that state losses extend beyond the physical value of goods to include royalties, tax revenue, and environmental impacts.

Ten Bogor Commuter Line Journeys Delayed Over an Hour After Trespassing Incidents on Rail Tracks

Ten Bogor Commuter Line services were delayed by more than an hour and two were cancelled after a train struck a person on the tracks between Pasar Minggu and Manggarai. A separate incident involving a motorcycle on an unofficial crossing disrupted Tangerang line services. KAI Commuter has apologised and pledged to intensify public safety education along rail corridors.

New Mobile Banking Theft Modus Grows More Alarming, Accounts Drained Instantly

Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting mobile banking applications, with new methods capable of draining customers' accounts entirely. Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has issued a series of preventive measures for bank customers to protect themselves against data theft and phishing. The regulator advises users to safeguard PINs, verify transactions carefully, avoid public Wi-Fi for banking, and report suspicious activity immediately.

Dozens of Students Caught Skipping School in Satpol PP Raid

The Sidoarjo Public Order Agency (Satpol PP) conducted a raid on coffee shops and cafes during school hours, detaining more than a dozen students found loitering in uniform. The students were taken to the Satpol PP headquarters for data collection and coaching, and were required to sign official statements promising not to repeat the offence. Officials warned that repeat offenders would be sent to the Sidoarjo Social Pondok (Liponsos) for further rehabilitation.

HIMKI pushes craft transformation to achieve US$6 billion export target

The Indonesian Furniture and Craft Industry Association (HIMKI) is urging a paradigm shift in the national craft sector to reach US$6 billion in furniture, craft, and home décor exports by 2031. HIMKI and the Ministry of Trade have formed a task force to accelerate export growth, with a focus on design, innovation, branding, and market diversification. The association also called for better integration of trade promotion instruments to convert market information into concrete transactions.

KPK confirms no sting operation in Bogor Regency

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has denied reports of a sting operation in Bogor Regency, West Java. Spokesperson Budi Prasetyo clarified that the information circulating among the public was untrue, though the agency is questioning several parties in response to public complaints. Further details will be disclosed transparently at a later date.

Comau Wins 'Outstanding Partner Award' as Horse Powertrain Produces Three Million Transmission Units

Comau has received the 'Core Partnership • Outstanding Partner Award' from Horse Powertrain after the latter's Changxing plant produced three million 7DCT transmission units. The award recognises Comau's role as the main integrator of the automated assembly line, which was completed on time in 2021 despite challenging market conditions. The partnership underscores Comau's commitment to manufacturing excellence and production efficiency.

Supreme Court Issues Regulation Prohibiting Cassation of Acquittals, Attorney General's Office to Study

The Indonesian Supreme Court has issued Circular Letter No. 4 of 2026, which firmly prohibits appeals and cassation against acquittal verdicts in criminal cases. The Attorney General's Office has stated it will study the new regulation, which aligns with the recently enacted Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP) under Law No. 20 of 2025.

NTT Earthquake Update: 75 Dead, 92,375 Displaced

The death toll from the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara has risen to 75, with over 92,000 people now displaced. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) reported an increase in casualties and evacuees as aftershocks continue. Relief distribution has reached 729 tonnes of aid since 15 August.

US Treasury's buybacks validate Indonesia's earlier policy: Purbaya

Indonesia's Finance Ministry official Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has claimed that the US Treasury's decision to expand its government bond buyback programme validates Indonesia's earlier adoption of a similar policy. He argued that both initiatives share the goal of maintaining liquidity and safeguarding economic stability during market disruptions. The US recently doubled its buyback limit to at least US$4 billion per operation to curb heavy selling and contain surging yields on longer-term bonds.

LPS says it has separated conventional and sharia management

The Indonesia Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) has separated the management and bookkeeping of conventional and sharia financial systems since 2025 to maintain public trust. The move aims to ensure that all customer funds in both banking systems receive protection according to their respective frameworks. LPS also separates the premiums paid by banks based on the system they operate.

Police Deploy Team to Free Nine Teenagers Kidnapped by Papuan Separatists

Police in Mimika, Central Papua, have ordered a rescue operation for nine girls and teenage women reportedly kidnapped and held hostage by an armed separatist group in Jila District. Central Papua Police Chief Brigadier General Jeremias Rontini confirmed that a team has been prepared, though deployment is currently hampered by transport difficulties. The National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) has condemned the targeting of civilians, particularly children and teenage girls, and urged security forces to ensure the safety of all residents in Papua.

Shell Returns to Indonesia, Offshore Oil and Gas Becomes Investment Magnet

Global energy company Shell has expressed serious interest in returning to invest in Indonesia's upstream oil and gas sector, with a particular focus on offshore working areas. The interest was conveyed by Shell's head office management to SKK Migas chief Djoko Siswanto, who reported the development to the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources. The move is seen as a positive signal for Indonesia's efforts to boost national production and attract global investment in exploration and field development.

Purbaya: Rp44 billion aid for NTT earthquake not new budget

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has clarified that the Rp44 billion in emergency aid for earthquake-hit East Nusa Tenggara was not a new allocation but part of funds already transferred in early August 2026. The clarification follows confusion after a local regent appeared unaware of the transfer. The government is now assessing further funding needs for recovery while monitoring regional finances.

The Rise of Ziswaf and the Future of National Economic Resilience

Indonesia's Islamic economy is growing robustly, with sharia banking assets reaching Rp1,075 trillion and the halal value chain expanding by 6.21 percent. Zakat, infak, sedekah and waqf (Ziswaf) instruments are positioned as strategic non-government fiscal tools for wealth redistribution, with an estimated annual potential of Rp343 trillion. Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar argues that optimising these Islamic social funds could mobilise up to Rp2,500 trillion when combined with taxation, potentially transforming national economic resilience.

Grab: Ride-hailing complements public transport connectivity

Grab Indonesia has highlighted the role of ride-hailing services in bridging first and last mile connectivity for public transport users, with 71 per cent of surveyed riders connecting to or from mass transit. The company has established pick-up points at transport hubs and collaborates with MRT Jakarta and the JakLingko ecosystem. The remarks were made as the Ministry of Transportation prepares the National Transport System Bill to integrate policies, networks and services across transport modes.

Israel Accuses Erdogan of Dragging Turkey into 'Dangerous Adventure' in Syria

Israel has accused Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of dragging Turkey into a 'dangerous adventure' in Syria, following an Israeli strike on an airbase near Aleppo. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu implied Israel was behind the attack, saying it had warned Turkey against establishing a military presence in Syria. Turkey has denied any military presence at the Abu al-Duhur airbase and reaffirmed its support for Syrian sovereignty.

House Commission III Urges Police to Investigate Rp1 Trillion Counterfeit Stamp Syndicate

House of Representatives Commission III has urged the police to fully investigate a counterfeit stamp syndicate uncovered by Polda Metro Jaya and the Ministry of Finance. The syndicate is estimated to have caused potential state losses of up to Rp1 trillion. Lawmakers are calling for the entire distribution chain and intellectual actors to be brought to justice.

Social forestry benefits 1.4 million families in Indonesia: official

Indonesia's social forestry programme now covers 8.41 million hectares and supports 1.4 million families across 36,095 villages, according to an official speaking at a conservation summit in Jambi. The initiative is framed as a key component of poverty reduction efforts under Presidential Instruction No. 8 of 2025, particularly given that 36.7 percent of people living near forest areas are classified as poor. Officials are now working to measure whether participating households have moved up from the lowest income decile through agroforestry, non-timber forest products, and carbon trading opportunities.

Economist says policy-making is a test of Bank Indonesia's independence

An economist from the University of Indonesia has warned that Bank Indonesia's policy-making process is becoming a test of the central bank's independence. Teuku Riefky said that while BI remains legally independent, pressure to align its policies with government agendas must not compromise its core mandate of maintaining inflation and exchange rate stability. A government communications expert added that fiscal and monetary coordination is still needed, but independence is essential for market confidence and credibility.

RI's Air Force Chief of Staff recalls intercepting foreign aircraft

Indonesia's Air Force Chief of Staff has recounted an incident from around 15 years ago when his squadron intercepted and forced down a foreign aircraft flying from Dili to Kuala Lumpur without proper clearance. The episode exposed a regulatory vacuum, prompting him and other officers to develop what became Indonesia's Airspace Management Law. He said the new law provides a strong legal foundation for safeguarding the country's airspace.

PSR Absorbs 1 Million Workers, 9 Universities Now Receive Palm Oil Scholarships

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto announced that the People's Palm Oil Replanting Programme (PSR) has realised 427,441 hectares with Rp12.14 trillion in funding since 2017, absorbing up to 1 million workers. The programme aligns with the B50 biodiesel policy, which raises CPO demand from 15.6 million to 18 million tonnes. BPDP has also partnered with 9 universities to provide scholarships for 5,000 students, with a target to increase this fourfold to 20,000.

NTT Earthquake Death Toll Reaches 75, Displaced Persons Surge to 92,735

The death toll from the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Nusa Tenggara Timur has risen to 75, with the number of injured climbing to 907. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) also reported a sharp increase in displaced persons to 92,735, while aftershocks continue to pose risks. Authorities are distributing hundreds of tonnes of aid and urging residents to remain vigilant.

Home Affairs Ministry: Central priority programmes still consider regional conditions

The Ministry of Home Affairs has emphasised that central government priority programmes are implemented with attention to the diverse real conditions of each region, including fiscal capacity. The ministry is conducting visits to synchronise central and regional development planning and provide support such as budgeting and technical guidance.

Ten Bogor Commuter Line journeys delayed after person struck by train

Ten Bogor Commuter Line services were delayed by more than an hour and two were cancelled after a person was struck by a train between Pasar Minggu and Manggarai on Thursday morning. Eight Tangerang line services were also delayed after a motorcycle was hit at an illegal level crossing. KAI Commuter has apologised and pledged to strengthen coordination with local authorities to improve railway safety.

Metrodata Urges AI Adoption to Deliver Real Business Value

PT Metrodata Electronics Tbk has called on Indonesian organisations to shift their focus from merely adopting artificial intelligence to generating measurable business value. Speaking at the 21st Metrodata Solution Day, the company highlighted a significant gap between high AI investment and low implementation maturity in Indonesia. The forum brought together more than 30 global technology partners to discuss strategies for building, running, and scaling AI initiatives.

923 Schools in NTT Shift to Home Learning After Earthquake

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has recorded 923 schools in East Nusa Tenggara implementing home learning following the recent earthquake. The ministry is distributing 100 emergency classroom tents, expected to be operational next week, alongside aid packages for affected students. A flexible emergency learning guide has also been issued to support education during the crisis.

Southeast Asian Automotive Market Positive in July; Driven by Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam

The ASEAN automotive market showed clear signs of recovery in July 2026, with Malaysia, Indonesia and Vietnam leading the way. Sales rose in Malaysia and Indonesia, while Vietnam continued to be one of the region's fastest-growing markets, driven increasingly by electric vehicles. Thailand's recovery remains cyclical and dependent on government stimulus, with production and exports still under pressure.

MPR Deputy Speaker Affirms Women's Equality Struggle Is a National Civilisational Agenda

MPR Deputy Speaker Lestari Moerdijat has called for women's equality and empowerment to be treated as a national civilisational agenda rather than a sectoral issue. Speaking at a focus group discussion on strengthening women's representation in electoral law revisions, she highlighted persistent structural and cultural barriers, including low female political representation and workforce participation. Moerdijat urged all elements of society, including political parties, to turn women's issues into a national movement rather than a mere quota formality.

Dr Oky Asks Police to Examine Suspected Sender of Flower Wreath Terror

The legal team of cosmetic surgeon Dr Oky Pratama has urged police to compel a key witness, identified as HP alias HS, to attend questioning over alleged defamation involving threatening flower wreaths. The witness has twice failed to appear, with her lawyer citing illness, though she reportedly travelled abroad instead. Police have been asked to issue a second summons and, if necessary, a warrant to bring her in for examination.

PNM Prepares Mekaar Financing Ecosystem with 8% Interest Rate

PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) is preparing the regulatory, administrative, and liquidity infrastructure needed to implement the new 8% interest rate for its Mekaar ultra-micro financing programme, targeted for September 2026. The state-owned enterprise is working with the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of MSMEs, and state-owned banks coordinated by Danantara to ensure the ecosystem is ready. The adjustment is intended to make capital more affordable for ultra-micro entrepreneurs and strengthen family-level economic resilience.

Pramono Releases Rp 5.8 Billion in Aid for NTT Earthquake Victims

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has dispatched humanitarian aid worth Rp 5.8 billion for earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara. The assistance includes food and non-food logistics, cash, and a mobile water treatment plant. Pramono indicated that further aid will follow, with nappies prioritised for children and the elderly.

Onrust Archaeology Museum Invites Public to Explore Nusantara Hajj History

The Jakarta Culture Agency has opened a temporary exhibition at the Onrust Archaeology Museum tracing the maritime history of the Nusantara hajj pilgrimage from Batavia to Mecca. The exhibition, running until January 2027, highlights Onrust Island's role as a quarantine and embarkation point during the colonial era. It features six thematic zones and includes contributions from international collaborators and the family of a former quarantine officer.

Prosecutors Consider Appeal Against Light Sentence for Former Sumbawa BPN Head

The West Nusa Tenggara High Prosecutor's Office is still considering whether to appeal the 15-month prison sentence handed to Subhan, former head of the Sumbawa and Central Lombok National Land Agency, in a corruption case involving land acquisition for the MXGP Samota circuit. The sentence was significantly lighter than the three-year term sought by prosecutors. The case relates to the purchase of 70 hectares of land for Rp52 billion, with state losses estimated at Rp6.7 billion.

Minister: Not all political parties comply with female legislative candidate quota

Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Arifah Fauzi has stated that the 30 percent quota for female legislative candidates remains merely administrative and is not yet complied with by all political parties. She highlighted a Constitutional Court ruling affirming that candidate lists must include at least 30 percent women in every electoral district. The ministry has also formed a National Women's Politics Working Group to push for stronger female representation in the revision of the Election Law.

Ministry of Youth and Sports targets sports event calendar from 2027

The Ministry of Youth and Sports (Kemenpora) aims to establish an annual national sports event calendar starting in 2027 to better coordinate sporting events across Indonesia. The calendar is intended to aid planning for athletes, spectators and government while also stimulating the economy. Kemenpora is also pursuing partnerships with private sector organisers to develop the sports ecosystem.

Conflicting accounts of Maybrat residents' wounds prompt Komnas HAM to call for scientific investigation

Indonesia's National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) has urged the Southwest Papua Regional Police to conduct a scientific crime investigation into the alleged shooting of three civilians in Maybrat Regency. The call follows conflicting statements about whether the victims' wounds were caused by bullets or sharp objects. Komnas HAM also called for medical care, psychosocial support, and measures to prevent further conflict escalation.

Mandiri Taspen and Petrokimia Gresik strengthen business and retirement synergy

PT Bank Mandiri Taspen and PT Petrokimia Gresik have signed a memorandum of understanding covering banking services, business ecosystem development, and human resources support extending to employees entering retirement. The partnership focuses on building a retirement ecosystem that keeps former employees productive, while also exploring agro-industry business opportunities and corporate social responsibility programmes. Both companies expect the collaboration to deliver measurable benefits for their employees, business partners, and the wider community.

IAP Hosts ICAPPS 2026 to Drive Future City Planning in Asia Pacific

The Indonesian Association of Urban and Regional Planners (IAP) is hosting the International Conference of Asia-Pacific Planning Societies (ICAPPS) in Jakarta, bringing together planners from five countries to shape the future of urban development. The three-day conference focuses on 'next generation cities' and features over 400 research papers. IAP emphasises that planning must anticipate the needs of Gen Z, Alpha, and Beta populations over the next 20 to 30 years.

KAI Pursues Business Transformation, Targets 1.4 Billion Passengers per Year by 2045

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) is pursuing a business transformation to expand its growth sources beyond transport, targeting 1.4 billion passengers annually by 2045. The state-owned railway operator aims to increase non-farebox revenue from around 6 percent to 20–25 percent by optimising assets, technology, and capabilities. KAI recorded 503.5 million passengers in 2025, up 8.52 percent from the previous year.

Bank Sumut introduces Smartcash for BRT Mebidang public transport service

PT Bank Sumut has launched its Smartcash card as a cashless payment option for the new Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Mebidang service in North Sumatra. The initiative supports the provincial government's push to modernise public transport and promote digital payments. The BRT project, backed by the World Bank and AFD France, is currently in a free trial phase before full operations begin in December 2026.

KPK Reported to Conduct Sting Operation in Bogor Regency, Six People Detained

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has reportedly detained six people, including a head of a government agency, in Bogor Regency, West Java, in connection with alleged corruption. Sources indicate that Rp1.5 billion in cash was seized during the operation. A KPK spokesperson confirmed activity in the area but denied it was a sting operation, describing it as a follow-up to public reports.

Bumper Shallot Harvest in Bantul Brings Big Profits for Farmers

Shallot farmers in Bantul, Yogyakarta, are enjoying a significantly improved harvest this year, with productivity rising and pest problems sharply reduced. Farm-gate prices have also climbed from around Rp10,000 to between Rp15,000 and Rp20,000 per kilogram, boosting incomes. Farmers hope the favourable conditions will continue after the main harvest to sustain the local agricultural economy.

Not Just About Profit, Geothermal Also Builds Community Economy

PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy Tbk (PGEO) says its geothermal development focuses not only on financial returns but also on building the local economy around its operational areas. The company highlights the multiplier effect of its projects, citing Kamojang as evidence of more than four decades of shared economic growth with surrounding communities. PGEO's ESG performance has been recognised with top global and national ratings, alongside 15 consecutive Proper Emas awards.

BNPB: Death toll from NTT earthquake rises to 75

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has reported that the death toll from the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara has risen to 75, with four additional fatalities recorded. The number of injured has also increased to 907, while aftershocks continue to pose a significant threat. Authorities have urged residents in affected areas to remain vigilant.

Elderly Man Dies of Respiratory Distress at Makeshift Evacuation Camp in Sikka, NTT

A 67-year-old man died at a makeshift evacuation camp in Nangahale Village, Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, after suffering from shortness of breath and coughing. The camp hosts 1,551 displaced people, including large numbers of pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, elderly residents, toddlers and people with disabilities. Residents are urging the local government to ensure aid reaches remote evacuation sites, not just urban areas.

Agriculture Minister accelerates food aid distribution for NTT earthquake victims

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has ordered the immediate distribution of food aid to earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara, bypassing lengthy administrative procedures. The minister said the rapid response follows direct instructions from President Prabowo Subianto, with rice supplies confirmed sufficient for up to a year. Around 34,000 displaced people require approximately 300 tonnes of rice per month, while regional stocks stand at 39,000 tonnes.

East Jakarta City Government monitors repair of collapsed road in Pulogadung

The East Jakarta City Government is overseeing the repair of a collapsed 100-metre section of Jalan Cinta in Pulogadung, which leads towards Kali Sunter. The local administration is coordinating with the Jakarta Water Resources Agency on the technical reconstruction design. Residents have been urged to be patient and use temporary alternative routes while the work is carried out for public safety.

Indonesia, Germany Eye Deeper Ties in Green Energy, Semiconductors

Indonesia and Germany are exploring deeper economic cooperation in green energy, semiconductor supply chains, and vocational education, with discussions led by Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto and German Minister Reem Alabali Radovan. The talks also covered the Indonesia-EU CEPA trade agreement, which Indonesia hopes to sign this year, and highlighted Germany's significant investment footprint in the country. The cooperation aims to accelerate renewable energy projects and strengthen Indonesia's integration with the European market.

Elderly Man Dies at Makeshift Nangahale Camp in Sikka Amid Limited Disaster Response

A 67-year-old earthquake survivor has died at a makeshift evacuation camp in Nangahale, Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, after suffering breathing difficulties with only tarpaulin and cloth for bedding. The death adds to growing concerns over the safety of 393 families still sheltering in open-air camps who say they have received no government assistance. Residents are urging the Sikka administration to extend relief beyond urban centres to remote evacuation sites.

MoraRepublic and Huawei Indonesia Accelerate Digital Transformation in Enterprise Sector

PT Ekamas Mora Republik Tbk (MoraRepublic) and Huawei Indonesia have signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen their strategic partnership in developing the corporate ICT market. The collaboration aims to deliver more integrated digital solutions by combining Huawei's enterprise technology with MoraRepublic's digital infrastructure capabilities. Both companies expect the partnership to accelerate digital adoption across Indonesian industries and support the growth of the country's digital economy.

Gout Should Not Be Ignored, Doctor Says It Can Trigger Heart Disease

Medical experts warn that gout is not merely a joint condition but is closely linked to cardiovascular disease. Shared risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension help explain why gout sufferers face higher risks of coronary artery disease, heart failure, and arrhythmia. Lifestyle changes that control gout can therefore also protect heart health.

Doctor Tifa Files Another Pre-trial Motion at South Jakarta District Court

Tifauziah Tyassuma, known as Doctor Tifa, has filed a second pre-trial motion at the South Jakarta District Court challenging the prosecution's case against her over allegations concerning President Joko Widodo's university diploma. The motion, registered on 13 August 2026, seeks to have the indictment declared legally invalid on grounds of inadequate identification of electronic objects and imprecise application of the Electronic Information and Transactions Law. The first hearing is scheduled for 28 August 2026 before a single judge.

Pramono says Suralaya coal-fired power plant one of the causes of pollution in Jakarta

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has identified the Suralaya coal-fired power plant in Cilegon, Banten, as a significant contributor to air pollution in the capital. He stressed that emissions from industries in the surrounding agglomeration area must be addressed through coordination with the central government. Pramono noted that local measures such as promoting electric vehicles and public transport will not fully resolve the problem while nearby industries continue to use environmentally unfriendly fuels.

Governor Bobby Inaugurates Mebidang BRT, Pushes Medan-Binjai-Deliserdang Public Transport Integration

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution has inaugurated the Mebidang Bus Rapid Transit service, covering Medan-Binjai and Medan-Lubukpakam routes. The electric bus system is intended to reduce traffic congestion and carbon emissions while encouraging a shift from private vehicles to public transport. Full operations are targeted for 8 December 2026 with 30 electric buses.

Vice President partners with University of Indonesia students for trauma healing of displaced people in Sikka

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming has involved psychology students from the University of Indonesia in providing trauma healing for child evacuees at a stadium in Sikka, East Nusa Tenggara. He emphasised that youth involvement reflects the spirit of gotong royong in disaster response and that the government must ensure no resident is left without assistance, including those in hard-to-reach mountainous areas.

Farewell Zhu Rongji, the Architect of Modern China

Zhu Rongji, former Chinese Premier who died at 97, was the technocrat who translated Deng Xiaoping's reform vision into the institutions that transformed China into a global economic power. His legacy includes modernising the tax system, reforming banking, and integrating China into the global economy. His institutional approach contrasts with the current emphasis on state control under Xi Jinping.

Video: Freeport to Develop Kucing Liar Mine with Rp72 Trillion Investment

PT Freeport Indonesia is preparing to explore the Kucing Liar mine from 2029, with an investment of Rp72 trillion. The mine is estimated to hold reserves sufficient to produce around 7 billion pounds of copper and 7 million ounces of gold, potentially extending operations until 2051. The company also reported that its two smelters in Manyar, East Java, are currently operating at only 25 per cent capacity due to upstream disruptions.

Hundreds of Women Drugged by French Official: How Did the Alleged Sexual Assaults Occur?

Nearly 250 women have accused a senior French culture ministry official, Christian Negre, of drugging them during job interviews between 2009 and 2018. Investigators suspect he used diuretics to induce urgent urination, with one victim describing how she lost control of her bladder after drinking coffee he prepared. The case has drawn comparisons to the Gisèle Pelicot trial, which brought the crime of drugging individuals to national attention in France.

Support for Indonesia's Strategic Commodities Exchange: Governance Must Be Science-Based and Transparent

The Gadjah Mada University Geological Engineering Alumni Association (Kageogama) has voiced support for the government's plan to establish a Strategic Minerals and Commodities Exchange (BMKS) as the foundation for an Indonesia Reference Price. The association emphasised that governance must be science-based, transparent, competitive and trustworthy. President Prabowo Subianto has announced the exchange is targeted to begin operations on 1 January 2027 under OJK supervision.

376 ISPA Cases Recorded in Pekanbaru Due to Forest and Land Fire Haze

The Pekanbaru Health Office has recorded 376 cases of acute respiratory infection (ISPA) linked to haze from forest and land fires since early August 2026. Most cases are non-pneumonia, with only nine pneumonia patients, while July saw a much higher total of 5,325 ISPA cases. The mayor has urged residents to limit outdoor activities and prioritise health precautions amid hot, dry El Niño conditions.

Health Minister: 6 air ambulance helicopters prepared for isolated regions

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin announced that six air ambulance helicopters have been prepared to assist patients, particularly emergency cases, in isolated areas. The initiative follows experience from the NTT earthquake, where many victims suffered fractures and required rapid treatment. The Ministry of Health is coordinating with Basarnas, the National Police, and the military to mobilise doctors and transport patients to hospitals.

CBDK to Buy Back Shares, Prepares Rp 250 Billion

PT Bangun Kosambi Sukses Tbk. (CBDK) has announced a share buyback programme worth Rp 250 billion, citing a share price decline of up to 57% that it believes does not reflect the company's fundamentals. The company expects the move to reduce selling pressure and signal confidence to investors, while projecting an increase in earnings per share and return on equity. The buyback will be funded entirely from internal cash reserves.

South Korea Detects 10 Short-Range Missiles Launched from North Korea

South Korea's military detected approximately 10 short-range ballistic missiles launched from the Pyongyang area on Thursday, with the projectiles travelling around 300 kilometres towards the sea east of the Korean Peninsula. Seoul condemned the launches as a serious violation of UN Security Council resolutions and convened an emergency security meeting. The launch occurred after US President Donald Trump said he would meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un later this year.

Power Disruption Briefly Halts Jakarta Kota–Tanjung Priok KRL Services

Commuter line services between Jakarta Kota and Tanjung Priok were temporarily disrupted on Thursday due to an overhead power fault. KAI Commuter said the issue was resolved within about 25 minutes and normal operations resumed, though two trains were delayed. Passengers were seen disembarking at Ancol station away from the platform, prompting an apology from the operator.

Government strengthens national industry amid global shifts

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has outlined Indonesia's strategy to bolster economic resilience through downstreaming, investment and digital transformation. The economy grew 5.5 per cent in the first half of 2026 with inflation at 2.88 per cent, supported by strong domestic demand and investment growth of 7.2 per cent. The government is also expanding export markets and developing digital infrastructure to deepen Indonesia's integration into global value chains.

As scam centres proliferate, expert urges ASEAN to form joint cyber task force

An international law expert has called on ASEAN to establish a joint cyber task force to combat cross-border online scam networks. Yordan Gunawan of Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta proposed the mechanism following the Indonesia-Kamboja agreement to set up an Indonesia Desk at Cambodia's national police headquarters. He emphasised that real-time intelligence sharing and a 24/7 point of contact are essential to keep pace with rapidly shifting scam operations.

Kalimantan Besieged by Forest Fires, Personnel Battle to Extinguish Flames

Satellite monitoring has detected 1,487 hotspots across Kalimantan, with Central Kalimantan recording the highest concentration at 767 points. The government is strengthening cross-sector coordination and preparedness as firefighting teams work to contain the blazes. Authorities have urged local governments and communities to remain vigilant and avoid burning activities in fire-prone areas.

Students in Singkawang Asked to Wear Masks Outdoors

The Education and Culture Office in Singkawang, West Kalimantan, has instructed students to wear masks during outdoor activities due to declining air quality caused by forest and land fire haze. The measure aims to protect schoolchildren from respiratory problems, with authorities continuing to monitor conditions and coordinate with relevant agencies.

IRGC: Iran Prepares More Devastating Precision Weapons if War Breaks Out

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has warned that it has developed a new generation of precision weapons that would be far more destructive if hostilities resume. Spokesman Hossein Mohebi said the country has made a technological leap in its military equipment, with a focus on greater accuracy and advanced capabilities. The warning comes amid heightened regional tensions and a reported shift by Washington towards gradual economic strangulation of Iran.

Transport Ministry strengthens Blangkejeren Airport to support disaster preparedness

Indonesia's Ministry of Transportation is upgrading Blangkejeren Airport in Aceh to improve regional connectivity and disaster response capabilities. The airport's current runway is too short to accommodate large transport aircraft such as the C-130 Hercules, limiting its role in evacuations and logistics distribution. Construction is planned in stages for 2027–2028, with land acquisition and technical planning already underway.

Banten Police Uncover 7 Illegal Mining Operations in 3 Months, 6 Named as Suspects

Banten Regional Police have uncovered seven illegal mining cases between June and August 2026, including six sand and soil quarrying operations and one illegal gold processing site. Six individuals have been named as suspects for the quarrying cases, while one suspect in the gold case remains at large. The operations took place across Tangerang, Serang, and Lebak regencies without required mining permits.

National Police Legal Division Affirms Search of Febrie Adriansyah's Home Was Lawful

The National Police's Legal Division has defended the search and seizure conducted against former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah, stating it complied with applicable law. The statement was made during a pre-trial hearing at the South Jakarta District Court, where Adriansyah's legal team presented three expert witnesses. Police indicated they would present their own experts at the next hearing to counter the applicant's arguments.

49,909 households in Central Jakarta have adopted waste sorting

The Central Jakarta administration reports that 49,909 households, or 39.43 per cent of the total, had implemented waste sorting at source as of 19 August 2026. The increase is attributed to direct outreach and education at neighbourhood, subdistrict and business levels. Organic waste reduction through methods such as maggot bioconversion and composting reached 322.78 tonnes.

Former Employee Reveals Unexpected Facts About Facebook

A former Meta engineering director has testified that CEO Mark Zuckerberg deliberately prioritised user growth over child safety. Arturo Bejar told a federal court in Oakland that safety features were designed to fail and that Meta ignored underage account detection to protect long-term profits. The testimony is part of a lawsuit brought by 29 US states accusing Meta of harming young users.

Housing Minister: Budget realisation reaches Rp3.60 trillion as of 19 August

Minister of Housing and Settlement Areas Maruarar Sirait reported that his ministry's budget realisation for the 2026 fiscal year reached Rp3.60 trillion, or 35 per cent of the non-ABT ceiling, as of 19 August. The ministry is targeting 97 per cent realisation by the end of the year, with a total budget of Rp12.53 trillion including additional post-disaster funding for Sumatra. The minister also highlighted funding shortfalls for housing stimulus programmes, flat construction, and permanent housing in 2027.

Grab sees ecosystem strengthening as key to expanding electric vehicle adoption

Grab Indonesia says affordable ownership schemes, policy support and charging infrastructure are essential to accelerate electric vehicle adoption in the transport sector. The company has more than 28,000 EVs operating as of May 2026 and targets around 42,000 by year-end. Speakers at the Industrial Summit 2026 also highlighted challenges such as range anxiety, high vehicle prices and limited charging facilities for long-haul logistics.

Police Assert Seizure of Sentul House in Febrie Case Complies with Regulations

The Indonesian National Police have defended the search and seizure of a Sentul residence belonging to former junior attorney general for special crimes Febrie Adriansyah, stating the actions were lawful and relevant to the case. The statement was made during a pretrial hearing at the South Jakarta District Court, where police also cited expert testimony supporting the legality of the seizure. Febrie is a suspect in a money laundering case involving 74 kilograms of gold and Rp543 billion in cash.

Pramono Orders Pasar Jaya to Relocate Street Vendors Disrupting Traffic

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has instructed Pasar Jaya and the East Jakarta mayor to move street vendors into designated market areas, citing traffic disruption and safety hazards. The directive follows a fatal accident in which a student died after slipping on a wet road outside Pasar Kramat Jati. Pramono stressed that the issue must be resolved promptly to prevent recurrence.

Bakom RI: Strong industry is a foundation for strengthening the rupiah

A senior government communications adviser has argued that strengthening Indonesia's industrial sector is essential for the long-term stability of the rupiah. Fithra Faisal Hastiadi said monetary policy alone cannot resolve structural economic weaknesses, and called for harmony between fiscal and monetary approaches. He also stressed the importance of preserving Bank Indonesia's independence to maintain market confidence.

Video: Tony Wenas and Freeport Indonesia's Contribution to the National Economy

PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the national economy through taxes, dividends, royalties and other levies, despite facing a challenging recovery period following a mudslide at the Grasberg Block Cave underground mine in 2025. President Director Tony Wenas, speaking during the 81st Independence Day celebrations in Tembagapura, Central Papua, said the company expects to contribute around Rp 47 trillion in 2026, down from over Rp 75 trillion in 2025, but targets contributions of Rp 120 trillion per year by 2028. PTFI is also strengthening coordination with local governments in Mimika Regency and Central Papua Province to advance economic, social, cultural, infrastructure, SME, health and education programmes.

Mystery of Monaco Bomber's Murder: Unclear Motive and Rp 145 Million Payment

The woman who carried out a bomb attack on a Ukrainian tycoon in Monaco was found shot dead and buried in a forest in Ukraine days later. Two alleged accomplices, including an active Ukrainian military intelligence officer, have been detained. The motive behind the attempted assassination remains unclear.

Madiun Regency Government optimises community health centres to boost free health check-up programme coverage

The Madiun Regency Government is intensifying the use of its 26 community health centres (puskesmas) to accelerate the Cek Kesehatan Gratis (CKG) free health screening programme, which has reached 50.62 percent of its target population. The Health Office aims to achieve 70 percent coverage by the end of 2026 by expanding services to integrated health posts, village maternity clinics, auxiliary health centres, schools, foundations, and Islamic boarding schools. Non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and heart disease remain the most common findings among screened residents.

Two Trespassing Incidents Disrupt KRL Services on Bogor and Tangerang Lines, KCI Apologises

KAI Commuter Indonesia has apologised after two separate incidents involving a person and a motorcycle being struck by trains disrupted KRL services on the Bogor and Tangerang lines. The incidents caused significant delays and cancellations, with services returning to normal by midday. The operator has urged the public to prioritise safety and avoid trespassing on railway tracks.

Police Hunt Foreign National and Two Women over Oral Sex Act in Canggu

Police in North Kuta, Bali, are investigating a public indecency case involving a foreign national and two local women after CCTV footage of the incident went viral on social media. Officers have visited the scene on Jalan Pantai Batu Bolong and are working to identify the suspects, who are believed to have fled on a motorcycle. The footage reportedly shows a money transaction taking place before the act occurred.

Bamsoet urges bureaucratic reform that delivers real impact for the public

House of Representatives member Bambang Soesatyo has called on central and regional governments to accelerate results-oriented bureaucratic reform. He highlighted persistent problems such as slow services, fragmented data and weak merit-based staffing, particularly outside Java. Bamsoet proposed strengthening the role of regional secretaries and building a real-time National Bureaucratic Reform Dashboard to monitor progress.

PIPA Eyes Acquisition of Oil and Gas Processor: A Look at the Issuer's Profile, Business Lines, and Performance

PT Oxala Energy International Tbk (PIPA), formerly a PVC building materials producer, is finalising an acquisition of an oil and gas processing company as part of its strategic transformation under new controlling shareholder PT Morris Capital Indonesia. The parties aim to sign a Conditional Share Purchase Agreement in August 2026, with the target company having secured strategic contracts worth over US$100 million since expanding into oil and gas processing in 2025. PIPA's share price has risen 18.70% over the past week amid the news, despite a decline in first-half net profit.

ParagonCorp and ARC USK Explore Aceh Patchouli as Cosmetic Ingredient

Indonesian beauty company ParagonCorp has partnered with Atsiri Research Center at Universitas Syiah Kuala to research Aceh patchouli as a potential active ingredient for cosmetics. The collaboration focuses on patchouli alcohol crystal derived from Aceh patchouli oil, aiming to build scientific evidence and develop local natural resources into value-added innovations. The initiative is part of ParagonCorp's broader effort to strengthen Indonesia's science, technology, and industrial capabilities in the beauty sector.

Bantul harvests over 4,000 tonnes of shallots in bumper crop

Bantul Regency in Yogyakarta has held a large-scale shallot harvest on 200 hectares of land, yielding more than 4,000 tonnes. The regency contributes around 70 per cent of the province's total shallot production, and farmers are benefiting from favourable prices of Rp18,000 per kilogramme. Local growers report minimal pest and disease problems this season, with harvests considered fully successful.

Valuasi Obligasi Indonesia Makin Kompetitif, Investor Pantau Konsistensi Kebijakan

Manulife Aset Manajemen Indonesia menilai obligasi Indonesia semakin menarik bagi investor karena valuasinya yang kompetitif, tercermin dari kembalinya arus dana asing ke pasar SBN pada Juni-Juli 2026. Namun, daya tarik tersebut perlu diimbangi dengan konsistensi kebijakan, stabilitas rupiah, dan kewaspadaan terhadap risiko eksternal seperti harga minyak serta sikap suku bunga The Fed. Stabilitas nilai tukar menjadi kunci bagi investor asing untuk kembali masuk ke pasar obligasi Indonesia.

IDX to Lower Minimum Share Price from Rp 50 to Rp 1, Shares Priced Rp 11–Rp 200 to See 35% ARA

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) plans to reduce the minimum share price for trading on the regular and cash markets from Rp 50 to Rp 1 per share. The move is intended to broaden transaction opportunities and improve price discovery. The exchange has consulted with securities firms, investment managers, and global investors, with implementation details to follow after further feedback and platform readiness checks.

IDX to Lower Minimum Share Price to Rp1 from 7 September 2026

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) plans to reduce the minimum share price for trading on the regular and cash markets from Rp50 to Rp1 per share, effective 7 September 2026. The move aims to broaden transaction opportunities and improve price discovery, with adjusted auto rejection thresholds expected to boost trading frequency by two to three times. The exchange has consulted with securities firms, investment managers, and global investors ahead of the implementation.

Health ministry sends orthopedic doctors for NTT earthquake injured

Indonesia's Health Ministry has deployed orthopedic specialists from Makassar and Surabaya to eight districts in East Nusa Tenggara to treat victims of the recent 7.7 magnitude earthquake, many of whom suffered fractures after being trapped under debris. Medical teams are already performing surgeries, and medicine stocks are sufficient for about five days, with additional supplies available if needed. The disaster has killed at least 71 people and displaced nearly 60,000 residents, according to preliminary data from the National Disaster Management Agency.

Komdigi, Police and Transport Ministry Get Highest Non-Tax Revenue Targets in 2027

The Indonesian government has set the highest non-tax state revenue (PNBP) targets for 2027 for the Ministry of Communication and Digital, the National Police, and the Ministry of Transportation. These three institutions, along with three others, are expected to contribute 54.5% of the total PNBP target of Rp113.96 trillion. The targets reflect planned increases from spectrum auctions, traffic services, and transport service volumes.

Indonesian Navy deploys five warships and two helicopters to deliver logistics to NTT

The Indonesian Navy has mobilised five warships, two helicopters and hundreds of personnel to accelerate evacuation and distribution of aid following the earthquake in Nusa Tenggara Timur. The deployment includes hospital facilities, heavy equipment and tens of tonnes of food and clothing. Operations will continue until the situation in the affected areas is deemed conducive.

Iranian President says negotiating with US does not mean surrender

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has stated that engaging in negotiations with the United States does not equate to surrender, emphasising the need to preserve Iran's territorial integrity. He outlined Tehran's objectives as ending the war, lifting the naval blockade, unfreezing state assets, and then holding nuclear talks. The remarks come amid heightened tensions after US President Donald Trump reportedly halted talks and announced a 'devastating economic operation' against Iran.

DEN: National energy resilience starts from the regions

The National Energy Council (DEN) has emphasised that national energy resilience must be built from regional energy resilience by optimising local energy sources. Member Sripeni Inten Cahyani highlighted the importance of a region-based approach amid global supply chain disruptions and geopolitical tensions. She also noted that Indonesia's operational energy reserves remain at only 20 days, with buffer reserves yet to be filled due to fiscal constraints.

Culture Ministry Budget Rises to Rp3.5 Trillion in 2027 Draft State Budget

The Ministry of Culture has been allocated Rp3.505 trillion in the 2027 Draft State Budget, more than double its Rp1.507 trillion allocation in 2026. The funds are divided between management support and cultural advancement and preservation programmes. The increase reflects the ministry's role in priority activities under the 2025-2029 National Medium-Term Development Plan.

Rupiah Strengthens on Planned Subsidised Fuel Quota Cuts

The rupiah strengthened against the US dollar on Thursday, supported by positive market reaction to the government's plan to cut subsidised fuel quotas by 58.5 percent in 2027. Analysts noted the policy could tighten access to subsidised Pertalite for everyday users, while investors also awaited current account data for the second quarter.

Foreign Minister to visit Australia, New Zealand to strengthen bilateral partnerships

Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono will visit Australia and New Zealand next week to bolster bilateral ties. The trip includes the 10th Indonesia-Australia 2+2 ministerial meeting in Melbourne and the Indonesia-New Zealand Joint Ministerial Commission in Auckland. The visits follow high-level strategic talks with China in Jakarta.

New Evidence of China's Global Expansion: Building a Business Empire from Africa to Europe

Chinese companies are rapidly expanding their industrial footprint across the globe, investing over US$200 billion in overseas factories over the past three years. This expansion is reshaping global supply chains, with a focus on strategic industries such as electric vehicles, clean energy, and data centre equipment. The trend is driven by weak domestic consumption, US tariffs, and incentives offered by Global South nations.

BNPB urges NTT residents to remain alert for aftershocks

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has called on residents in earthquake-affected areas of East Nusa Tenggara to remain vigilant, with 3,752 aftershocks recorded as of Thursday afternoon. The number of displaced people has risen sharply to 92,735, an increase of over 33,000 from previous figures. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) estimates aftershock activity following the 7.7-magnitude Flores earthquake may take three to four weeks to subside.

Field Hospital in NTT Built in Just 30 Hours

A field hospital in Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, was constructed in under 30 hours by 13 personnel from the Ministry of Health's Health Crisis Centre. The facility at Golo Dukal Stadium has already conducted its first operation, providing essential medical services to earthquake-affected communities. The rapid deployment aims to ensure continued healthcare access while permanent facilities recover from earthquake damage.

Our Independence and Human Rights

Indonesia's independence should be understood as a commitment to protecting and fulfilling the human rights of all citizens, yet violence in Papua continues to claim lives and displace thousands. The article argues that the gap between constitutional guarantees and reality demands renewed reflection on the 81st anniversary of independence.

DEN pushes for ocean energy to enter implementation phase

The National Energy Council (DEN) is urging Indonesia to move ocean energy development from planning to implementation, citing the country's substantial tidal, wave, and current potential. DEN member Sripeni Inten Cahyani said pilot projects should proceed without prioritising economic viability, while acknowledging that a planned project in the Larantuka Strait was cancelled due to high bridge construction costs.

Land Routes Difficult, NTT Earthquake Aid Sent by Sea and Air

The Indonesian government is mobilising air and sea transport to deliver aid to earthquake-affected areas in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) where land access is difficult. The Ministry of Transportation has prepared fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters and inter-island sea routes to support the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). Most ports and airports in the region remain operational, though two port terminals and several airport terminal buildings have sustained minor damage.

Basarnas intensifies medical evacuations after NTT earthquake

Indonesia's national search and rescue agency, Basarnas, has stepped up medical evacuations in East Nusa Tenggara following a series of earthquakes, prioritising vulnerable survivors such as an elderly resident and a pregnant woman suffering psychological distress. SAR teams are coordinating with local disaster agencies and the Ministry of Health to ensure prompt emergency care across affected districts including East Manggarai, West Manggarai, Ngada, and Nagekeo.

Public Works Minister: Budget realisation as of 19 August reaches Rp65.6 trillion

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo reported that budget realisation had reached Rp65.65 trillion, or 49.59 percent of the total ceiling, by 19 August 2026. Physical progress stood at 54.84 percent. The ministry's 2026 budget is prioritised for agricultural irrigation and regional connectivity to support food security and national economic growth.

IRGC: Iran prepares more devastating weapons if hostilities resume

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has warned that it has prepared more precise and destructive weapons should conflict reignite in the Middle East. The statement comes amid reports that Washington has shifted towards a strategy of gradual economic strangulation rather than military action against Tehran.

Police Investigate Viral Debt Collector Crawling Under Cars at GBK

Jakarta police are investigating a viral video showing suspected debt collectors crawling under parked cars at the Gelora Bung Karno complex to check chassis numbers. Officers believe the men were searching for vehicles with outstanding loan payments, though no criminal offence has yet been established. Police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.

Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection forms Pokjapolnas to boost women's representation

The Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection has established the National Women's Political Working Group (Pokjapolnas) to push for greater female representation in the revision of the Election Law. Minister Arifah Fauzi highlighted that 15 provincial KPU offices and 14 provincial Bawaslu offices currently have no female members. The initiative aims to ensure more inclusive and equitable public policy ahead of the 2029 general election.

Jakarta Grants 50% Tax Discount for Cinemas Screening National Films

The Jakarta provincial government has introduced a 50% reduction in the Specific Goods and Services Tax (PBJT) on arts and entertainment services for cinemas screening Indonesian films, effective from the July 2026 tax period. Under the scheme, cinemas must channel the discounted amount to national film producers, either through a designated film ecosystem institution or directly. The policy aims to support the domestic film industry while ensuring the tax relief benefits producers rather than remaining solely with cinema operators.

Illegal Sand Mining in Kediri's Brantas River Raided by Officials

Authorities in Kediri, East Java, have conducted a raid on illegal sand mining operations along the Brantas River. The operation involved Satpol PP, police, the regional disaster agency, and the Brantas River Basin Authority. Officials said the unlicensed mining threatens the river ecosystem and the safety of nearby infrastructure, including the Brawijaya Bridge.

Number of South Koreans aged 100 and over triples

The number of South Koreans aged 100 or older has nearly tripled over the past decade, reaching 8,604 as of November 2025, according to the national statistics office. The increase is attributed to medical advances and improved living conditions, with women accounting for 83.4 per cent of centenarians. The density of the very elderly population has also risen sharply, from 6.4 to 17.3 per 100,000 people.

IHSG closes higher, tracking Asian and global markets

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) rose 1.68 percent to 6,501.59 on Thursday, mirroring gains across Asian and global bourses. Market sentiment was buoyed by falling US Treasury yields and China's decision to hold its benchmark lending rates steady. Investors are now awaiting further policy signals from China's National People's Congress Standing Committee meeting later this month.

Pigai Urges Papua to Abandon Money Tradition

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has called on Papua's regional leaders to stop the practice of bringing money to Jakarta to influence policy, insisting that government services are free. He highlighted how this tradition has damaged the dignity of Papuans and created negative perceptions in the capital. Pigai also encouraged local legislators to be bolder in advocating for public welfare and justice.

GoPay urges users to beware of fake customer service scam

GoPay has warned its users about a rising scam in which fraudsters pose as official customer service representatives to obtain sensitive data. The company stressed that genuine staff never ask for PINs, passwords, or OTP codes, and urged users to contact support only through official channels. Victims risk financial losses through data sharing or psychological manipulation that pressures them into making transactions.

Video: PGE's Strategy to Fund Geothermal Projects - Non-Electricity Business Expansion

PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy (PGE) is targeting a geothermal electricity capacity of 1 GW by 2028, backed by solid financial fundamentals and competitive financing sources. The company is also expanding into non-electricity businesses such as green hydrogen to support decarbonisation and create new growth streams. Finance Director Fransetya Hutabarat outlined the strategy in an interview with CNBC Indonesia.

IHSG Jumps 1.68% to Breach Psychological 6,500 Level, On Track for Long Rally?

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) surged 1.68% to close at 6,501.58 on Thursday, driven by strong gains in commodity and mining stocks. Bank Indonesia's decision to hold its benchmark rate at 5.75% and a weaker US dollar provided support, while investors weighed hawkish signals from the Federal Reserve.

Germany Interested in Investing in Renewable Energy, Including Diesel Phase-Out

Germany has expressed interest in investing in Indonesia's renewable energy sector, including solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal power, as part of a broader push to achieve Sustainable Development Goals together. German companies are also eyeing opportunities in medical equipment, electricity transmission, and energy efficiency solutions. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto highlighted Indonesia's target of 100 gigawatts of renewable capacity within two to four years, with a priority diesel phase-out programme of 13.3 gigawatts this year for small islands.

Indonesia and Uruguay Target Cooperation, from Dairy to Agricultural Technology

Indonesia and Uruguay are exploring a strategic partnership in agriculture and livestock, covering dairy and beef development, cattle breeding and genetics, and agricultural research. The cooperation aims to attract investment, facilitate technology transfer, and open wider access for Indonesian agricultural products to Uruguay and Latin America. The initiative was discussed during a meeting between the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) and a Uruguayan delegation in Jakarta.

BPKH: Proposed 2027 Hajj Cost Scheme Potentially Contradicts Ulama Fatwa

Indonesia's Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) has cautioned that the proposed 2027 Hajj cost scheme, which would see 60 percent of costs covered by managed benefit funds, could undermine fairness for millions of pilgrims still on the waiting list. BPKH member Indra Gunawan stressed the need to balance affordability for departing pilgrims with the rights of those waiting, while adhering to sharia principles and ensuring long-term sustainability.

Citizens' forum regrets repeated delays to sugary drink excise policy

Forum Warga Kota Indonesia has criticised the repeated postponement of the excise policy on packaged sugary drinks, arguing it neglects the public's right to health. The group cites rising non-communicable disease rates and urges the House of Representatives to approve the regulation and include the excise in the 2027 state budget.

Pertamina: Worker dedication key to recovery in NTT

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has highlighted the dedication of its field workers in restoring energy supplies following the earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara on 15 August 2026. Despite many employees and their families being affected by the disaster, fuel station operators and tanker crews continued working to ensure fuel availability for emergency response and community needs. The company has also deployed additional tanker support from the Bima Integrated Terminal in West Nusa Tenggara to assist distribution in affected areas.

Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs reveals four criteria for National Electric Motorcycle

The Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs has outlined four key criteria for the National Electric Motorcycle (Molinas) programme, including a local content requirement above 60 per cent and the use of nickel-based batteries. The initiative aims to build a domestic electric vehicle ecosystem while reducing fuel subsidy spending by an estimated Rp82.2 trillion between 2027 and 2037. President Prabowo Subianto officially launched the programme at PT Ilectra Motor Group's facility in Cikarang.

42 Million Jabodetabek Residents Need Cross-Regional Transport Integration

The Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP) has called for an integrated cross-regional public transport system to serve the approximately 42 million residents of the Greater Jakarta area. With around 1.5 million daily commuters travelling from Bodetabek to Jakarta, the institute argues that transport planning must transcend administrative boundaries. The recommendation comes alongside calls for a unified air quality strategy, as studies highlight the serious health risks posed by PM2.5 pollution in the region.

Two Defendants in USD 15 Million Gas Corruption Case Sentenced to 4 and 5.5 Years in Prison

The Jakarta Corruption Court has sentenced two defendants in a gas trading corruption case to prison terms of four years and five and a half years respectively. The case involved losses to the state of USD 15 million, approximately Rp 255 billion. The defendants were found guilty of engaging in prohibited tiered gas sale and purchase agreements.

Bekasi City Police Arrest 11 Crime Suspects: From Begal to Motorcycle Theft

Bekasi City Police have arrested 11 suspects in connection with six prominent criminal cases, including violent robbery, motorcycle theft, and the theft of telecommunications equipment. The arrests were made during operations conducted between 1 and 20 August 2026. Police emphasised the importance of community participation in maintaining public order and preventing crime.

BPBD NTT records 4,914 damaged houses in Ngada following Flores earthquake

The East Nusa Tenggara disaster mitigation agency has recorded nearly 5,000 damaged houses across 12 sub-districts in Ngada Regency after a magnitude earthquake struck Flores on 15 August. The disaster also caused two deaths, 43 injuries, and damage to public infrastructure including roads, government offices, health facilities and schools. A 30-day emergency response status has been declared, with more than 2,500 people displaced across 81 evacuation points.

West Bandung Education Office to rehabilitate 182 primary and junior secondary classrooms

The West Bandung Regency Education Office has allocated approximately Rp32 billion to rehabilitate 182 classrooms across primary and junior secondary schools in 2026. The programme covers 134 classrooms in 80 primary schools and 48 classrooms in 18 junior secondary schools. SMPN 2 Ngamprah is among the beneficiaries, with three classrooms slated for repair at an estimated cost of Rp400 million.

BNPB Reports 3,752 Aftershocks in East Nusa Tenggara

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has recorded 3,752 aftershocks in East Nusa Tenggara following the recent earthquake, with a significant 5.7-magnitude tremor felt on Thursday morning. The agency has urged residents to remain vigilant and inspect buildings before re-entering them. Updated damage figures show 36,163 homes affected, while 102 tonnes of aid were dispatched on Thursday.

ITDP: Uneven Public Transport Coverage Hinders Emission Reduction in Greater Jakarta

The Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP) Indonesia has warned that uneven public transport coverage across Greater Jakarta is hampering efforts to shift commuters away from private vehicles and reduce transport emissions. Jakarta's target of achieving a 55% public transport mode share by 2045 cannot be met in isolation, as cross-border travel from satellite cities requires coordinated expansion of services. ITDP calls for simultaneous improvements in intercity and intermodal connectivity to serve the region's 42 million residents.

China Suddenly Praises Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim, What's Behind It?

Beijing has publicly commended Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim after he reaffirmed his support for the 'One China' principle in an Al Jazeera interview. Anwar stated that Taiwan is part of China and defended Beijing's right to use force if peaceful reunification fails. Taiwan's foreign ministry has condemned the remarks, warning they could undermine investor confidence.

Trump Threatens Economic Isolation, Iran Calls Policy a Failure

Iran has dismissed President Donald Trump's threat of economic isolation against Tehran and its supporters, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi describing it as a continuation of America's failed policies. Araghchi argued the move is a distraction from US domestic financial troubles, including record debt and rising interest rates. The exchange comes amid ongoing conflict between the two nations and a dispute over the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

BNPB Ensures Presidential Aid Reaches Earthquake Victims Directly in NTT

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has pledged that all government assistance, including aid from President Prabowo Subianto, will be delivered directly to residents affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The agency is working to overcome distribution challenges caused by the scattered pattern of self-organised evacuation sites. The death toll from the disaster has risen to 75, with 931 people injured across seven districts on Flores Island.

Minister Affirms Commitment to Comprehensive Maritime Safety Overhaul

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has pledged a thorough evaluation and overhaul of Indonesia's maritime safety system following several recent ship accidents. Speaking before House Commission V, he stressed that safety must be ensured at every stage of a voyage, not just after incidents occur. The ministry plans to strengthen layered prevention measures, improve manifest accuracy, and enforce stricter departure protocols.

Central Sulawesi Durian Plantation Association Appreciates Agriculture Minister's Commitment to Tackle Durian Disease

The Central Sulawesi branch of the Indonesian Durian Plantation Association has welcomed Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman's pledge to address a disease devastating local durian crops. The disease, known as 'bangkalan', causes fruit to fall prematurely and has cut production by up to 60 per cent. The minister has ordered a team of experts to be deployed and promised that all costs will be borne by the state.

Police Say Nine Papuan Teenagers Kidnapped by Papuan Separatists, Here is OPM Spokesperson's Response

The Free Papua Movement (OPM) has denied allegations by Indonesian police that its armed wing kidnapped nine civilians in Mimika, Central Papua. TPNPB-OPM spokesperson Sebby Sambom dismissed the accusation as military propaganda, insisting his forces do not target civilians. Police in Mimika had earlier reported that separatist groups were increasingly targeting not only security forces but also local and migrant civilians, including through kidnappings and hostage-taking.

Swiss National Sentenced to One Year in Prison for Insulting Nyepi in Bali

A Swiss national has been sentenced to one year in prison by the Denpasar District Court for posting a video on Instagram that insulted the Balinese Hindu Day of Silence, Nyepi. The court found Luzian Andrin Zgraggen guilty of broadcasting provocative content intended for public consumption, a violation of Article 301(1) of the 2023 Criminal Code. The sentence was lighter than the 15 months sought by prosecutors, with judges citing his first-time visitor status and lack of understanding of the ritual as mitigating factors.

BUMN Volunteer Programme 2026 strengthens community empowerment in Bulok Village

The Relawan Bakti BUMN 2026 programme in Bulok Village, South Lampung, concluded with a series of social activities, capacity-building initiatives, and facility support aimed at empowering the local community. Officials from PTPN I and the South Lampung Regency expressed appreciation for the collaboration between state-owned enterprises, volunteers, and residents, highlighting the programme's role in fostering village self-reliance and tourism development. The initiative included the unfurling of an 81-metre red-and-white flag and the donation of computers to the village government.

BPOM and URI discuss BPOM Vocational School to strengthen national resilience

The Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) and the University of the Republic of Indonesia (URI) have held talks on strengthening national human resources through AI utilisation and the development of a BPOM Vocational School. The collaboration aims to build a human-centred AI leadership ecosystem and address BPOM's significant staffing shortfall. The vocational school is positioned as part of the national health resilience infrastructure.

Jambi Language Agency distributes 80,600 books to support literacy movement

The Jambi Provincial Language Agency is distributing 80,600 quality reading books to 363 schools across 11 regencies and cities to support the National Literacy Movement for the 2026 fiscal year. The programme targets 283 primary schools and 80 junior secondary schools, prioritising those with the lowest literacy scores in the 2025 Computer-Based National Assessment. Merangin Regency receives the largest allocation of 17,900 books, followed by Bungo and Tebo.

Samsung to Distribute Rp 1,274 Trillion to Shareholders

Samsung Electronics is reportedly preparing to announce a US$71.75 billion shareholder return programme, comprising dividends and share buybacks, following record profits driven by surging demand for AI memory chips. The move comes shortly after rival SK Hynix unveiled a 40 trillion won programme, as both South Korean chipmakers face pressure from labour unions to share windfall earnings.

Pramono Says Air Pollution Control Cannot Be Solved by Regional Regulation Revision Alone

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has argued that revising the capital's air pollution bylaw is insufficient without coordinated emission controls across the wider Jakarta agglomeration. He highlighted coal-fired industrial plants in surrounding buffer zones as a major source of pollution affecting the city. Pramono called for integrated action across the metropolitan region, including restrictions on coal use by industries in suburban areas.

Field hospital begins operations, child patient surgery runs smoothly

A field hospital in Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, has begun serving earthquake-affected residents, marked by the successful thigh bone operation on an 11-year-old boy. The facility was built in under 30 hours by a 13-person team from the Health Ministry's Health Crisis Centre. The ministry says the hospital will help maintain medical services while permanent facilities recover from earthquake damage.

Visiting NTT Earthquake Evacuees, Gibran Cradles Baby in Treatment Tent

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming visited earthquake evacuees at TC Hillers Maumere Regional General Hospital in Sikka Regency, NTT, where he cradled a newborn and called for improvements to emergency treatment facilities. He assured patients that post-earthquake handling would be stepped up so they could return to proper wards and have their homes repaired. The visit came as the National Disaster Mitigation Agency reported 75 fatalities and tens of thousands of displaced people across NTT.

A Long Night for 640 Evacuees on Sukun Island after the NTT Earthquake

Hundreds of residents of Sukun Island in Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, are sheltering in makeshift tents on higher ground following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake. The disaster has compounded long-standing shortages of clean water and functioning telecommunications on the remote island. Local leaders are urging authorities to address these basic needs as evacuees continue to sleep outdoors and cook in open areas.

Economist: Ride-hailing presidential regulation must ensure equal partnership

Economist Nailul Huda of Celios has urged that the forthcoming presidential regulation on ride-hailing services guarantee a balanced partnership between drivers and platform companies. He stressed that drivers should retain flexibility over working hours and the ability to use multiple platforms, while social protection such as BPJS membership must remain non-negotiable.

Kemenpora partners with 20FIT to present Jakarta Hybrid Race at ISS 2026

Indonesia's Ministry of Youth and Sports (Kemenpora) is collaborating with sports industry company 20FIT to hold the Jakarta Hybrid Race fitness competition as part of the Indonesia Sport Summit 2026. The event will take place at the Jakarta International Convention Center in September, with the ministry providing financial support, tax incentives, and operational facilities. Organisers aim to establish the competition as a flagship event in Indonesia's growing hybrid race fitness landscape.

Legislator Questions Anomalies in Sanctions Against Mekarsari Savings and Loan Cooperative

A Golkar Party legislator has raised concerns over administrative sanctions imposed by the Ministry of Cooperatives on Koperasi Mekarsari, arguing they create a legal grey area. Doni Akbar questioned why the cooperative is still permitted to collect instalments while being ordered to halt unlicensed activities. He urged the ministry to clarify the legal basis and ensure any criminal proceedings are not obscured by administrative measures.

Bandung City Government to Extend Part-Time PPPK Contracts

The Bandung city administration has confirmed it will extend the contracts of part-time government employees (PPPK) when they expire in October 2026, citing limited fiscal capacity to upgrade them to full-time status. Mayor Muhammad Farhan said the city is awaiting the implementation of the 2027 state budget, which is expected to reclassify all PPPK as central government employees. The move is intended to ease the fiscal burden on regional governments while allowing Bandung to recruit new part-time PPPK staff as needed.

PKB's Sigap Bangsa Team distributes aid to residents affected by NTT earthquake

The National Awakening Party's (PKB) Sigap Bangsa Team has delivered humanitarian aid in the form of basic food packages to residents affected by the earthquake in East Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. The team emphasised that post-disaster handling requires not only logistical support but also psychological assistance for traumatised residents. The aid distribution was carried out in cooperation with volunteers to reach remote and hard-to-access areas.

Bank SMBC Indonesia Presents Andrea Bocelli's Musical Masterpiece in Indonesia

Bank SMBC Indonesia, part of Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation Group, is serving as the presenting partner for Andrea Bocelli's Romanza 30th Anniversary World Tour in Indonesia. The Italian tenor will perform at Borobudur Temple in Magelang on 31 October 2026 and at Jakarta International Expo in Kemayoran on 3 November 2026. The bank is offering exclusive ticket pre-sales, discounts, and hospitality packages to its customers, while the concerts are expected to generate an economic impact of Rp792 billion.

Indonesia eyes 10 percent energy savings with fuel restrictions

Indonesia is considering restricting subsidised Pertalite fuel purchases by higher-income households to make energy subsidies more targeted, with potential budget savings estimated at around 10 percent of the Rp210.1 trillion allocated for energy subsidies in 2026. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said the proposal is still under discussion and current distribution rules remain in place, while urging wealthier citizens to use non-subsidised fuel. The move is part of broader efforts to ensure subsidies reach those who are entitled to them.

Askrindo and Palopo City Government forge surety and general insurance partnership

State-owned insurer Askrindo has signed a cooperation agreement with the Palopo City Government in South Sulawesi to expand surety and general insurance services. The partnership aims to support infrastructure development and strengthen the local business ecosystem, with a particular focus on protecting MSMEs from fire and other operational risks. Askrindo also sees potential to extend micro marine insurance to fishermen in the coastal city.

9 Fishery Sector Shares, Business Opportunities and Challenges in Indonesia

Indonesia's fishery industry offers significant investment potential, supported by rising export values and strong domestic demand. Nine listed companies on the Indonesia Stock Exchange are involved in fishing, aquaculture, processing, and cold storage. The sector faces challenges including high feed costs and weather-dependent capture fisheries.

Guest Steals 3 TVs from 3 Different Rooms at Bandung Hotel

Police in Bandung are investigating a theft at a hotel in Pasirkoja where a guest allegedly stole three televisions from three separate rooms. The suspect checked in on 16 August and again on 17 August, each time leaving with a television in a large bag. Authorities are still pursuing the suspect.

Lebak BPBD Evacuates Saltwater Crocodile from Pasir Putih Beach Area

A 3-metre, 150-kilogram saltwater crocodile was evacuated from Pasir Putih Beach in Cihara District, Lebak Regency, Banten, after it was deemed a danger to tourists. The Lebak Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), police, and local residents worked together to secure the animal manually using ropes. The crocodile is being temporarily held at the Bayah Sector 5 Fire Station while authorities coordinate with the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries and the Banten Natural Resources Conservation Agency.

Firefighting Efforts on Mount Arjuno-Welirang Hampered by Fog

Efforts to extinguish forest and land fires on Mount Arjuno-Welirang in Pasuruan Regency, East Java, have been hindered by thick fog and difficult terrain. Hundreds of personnel are tackling the blaze manually, while aerial water bombing remains grounded due to poor visibility. All hiking routes have been closed indefinitely as a safety precaution.

ICC Condemns US Sanctions: An Attack on Judicial Independence!

The International Criminal Court has strongly condemned US sanctions against its President and a prosecutor, calling them a direct assault on judicial independence. The EU, Japan, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Spain and the UN have voiced support for the court. Washington imposed the measures over ICC arrest warrants for Israeli leaders, which the Trump administration considers illegitimate.

520-Page Plea: Bali Tidak Diam Activist Tomy Wiria Seeks Acquittal

The defence team for activist Tomy Priatna Wiria has submitted a 520-page plea rejecting the prosecution's charges of incitement under Article 247 of the Criminal Code. They argue the prosecution failed to prove any causal link between Tomy's 'Bali Tidak Diam' poster and the violence during the August 2025 demonstration. The defence also raised allegations of human rights violations during the investigation and has requested the court to acquit Tomy.

Strong Winds Prevent Helicopter from Delivering Aid to Isolated Village in NTT

A police helicopter failed to air-drop aid to the isolated village of Lidi on Palu'e Island, Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, six days after the Flores earthquake due to strong winds. The aircraft was forced to divert to the coastal village of Reruwairere to deliver supplies. Aerial observations revealed numerous landslides on the island's hilly terrain, complicating relief efforts.

Indonesia Expects More Chinese Investments in Wang Yi's Visit

Indonesia anticipates stronger Chinese investment commitments as Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi prepares for the inaugural comprehensive strategic dialogue in Jakarta. Economic cooperation, including cross-border trade and investment in priority sectors, will be high on the agenda, though officials remain tight-lipped on specifics. The visit comes amid ongoing negotiations over the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed rail debt and recent Chinese investor complaints about the investment climate.

Jasa Marga Commits to Ensuring Travel Safety and Security

State-owned toll road operator Jasa Marga is continuing preservation works across its network to maintain road quality and meet minimum service standards. The works, carried out mainly at night to minimise disruption, include patching, scrapping and filling, and pavement reconstruction. The company says the programme supports national connectivity and aligns with the government's infrastructure development agenda.

Two of Indonesia's Neighbours Join Forces, Working on Semiconductors to Nuclear Technology

Singapore and India have deepened bilateral cooperation across semiconductors, food security, workforce skills and connectivity during their fourth ministerial roundtable. The two nations signed agreements on food safety and maritime heritage, while also exploring collaboration in space and nuclear technology. The discussions aim to strengthen supply chain resilience and open opportunities for Singaporean SMEs in India's growing manufacturing sector.

Academic: System integration key to improving logistics efficiency

An academic and logistics executive has called for greater integration of Indonesia's logistics systems, arguing that existing assets such as ports, warehouses and depots are underutilised due to fragmented operations. He highlighted the problem of empty return trips, or backhaul, as a major inefficiency. The government is targeting a reduction in logistics costs from 14.29 percent of GDP in 2022 to 8 percent by 2045.

BRI Insurance wins best performance award at Insurance Award 2026

PT BRI Asuransi Indonesia (BRI Insurance) has been recognised as The Excellent Performance General Insurance Company 2026 at the Insurance Award 2026. The award falls under the Titanium Champion General Insurance category, marking 15 consecutive years of strong performance from 2012 to 2026. The company attributes the achievement to strengthening its business foundation, governance, risk management, and digital service innovation.

Ministry of Forestry: Social Forestry provides economic impact for 1.4 million families

Indonesia's social forestry programme has delivered economic benefits to 1.4 million households across 36,095 villages, according to the Ministry of Forestry. The scheme now covers 8.41 million hectares of the 12.7 million hectare national target, supporting agroforestry, non-timber forest products, environmental services and carbon trading. Officials say it is a key part of poverty alleviation efforts under Presidential Instruction No. 8 of 2025.

BMKG Reveals 4 Provinces with Most Forest and Land Fire Hotspots, 3 in Kalimantan

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has identified four priority provinces for forest and land fires, with West Kalimantan recording the highest number of hotspots. The agency predicts minimal cloud growth across much of Indonesia over the next ten days, with the rainy season not expected until mid-October. Weather modification operations are being conducted not only to combat fires but also to replenish reservoirs in drought-affected areas.

Beyond Four Laundries in Bogor, Other Polluters of Bekasi River Sought

The Ministry of Environment has sealed four laundry businesses in Bogor Regency suspected of polluting the Bekasi River, while a joint team continues to search for other parties involved. The pollution, which caused foam and blackened water, has prompted coordinated action by central and regional environmental agencies. Further monitoring and possible enforcement actions are expected through Friday.

Indonesia Ramps Up Geothermal Power, PGE Net Profit Grows 15.48%

PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy (PGE) reported a 15.48% year-on-year increase in net profit for the first half of 2026, reaching USD 79.605 million, as Indonesia accelerates geothermal development. The company aims to expand installed geothermal capacity to 1 GW by 2028 and 1.8 GW by 2033, positioning Indonesia as a global centre of excellence for geothermal energy.

Police Coordinate with KPAI over Bigmo Case Involving Children in Vape Promotion During Live Stream

Jakarta police are coordinating with the Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) as they investigate YouTuber Muhammad Jannah, known as Bigmo, for allegedly involving minors in promoting vape liquid during a live stream. The case has prompted police to schedule questioning of another content creator, Melvin, while Bigmo has apologised and pledged to produce more positive content.

Lungs Filled with Water, KMP Putri Yasmin Victim Dies After 8 Days of Treatment

Ardiyansyah, a 37-year-old victim of the KMP Putri Yasmin ferry fire, has died after eight days of treatment at RSUD Patut Patuh Patju in West Lombok. Doctors attributed his death to respiratory failure caused by aspiration pneumonia, after seawater entered his lungs during the incident. The case highlights the severe medical complications faced by survivors of the ferry disaster.

Indonesia Set to Offer 12 Geothermal Areas by 2026

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is preparing to offer 12 geothermal areas by 2026, comprising three Geothermal Working Areas, seven Preliminary Survey and Exploration Assignment Areas, and two areas assigned to state electricity company PLN. The initiative aims to accelerate geothermal development and attract new investment, with the three main working areas targeting a combined capacity of 130 megawatts and an investment value of around US$741 million. The government expects these projects to create significant direct and multiplier-effect employment while supporting the country's renewable energy goals.

BMKG: Rainfall in Yogyakarta Below Normal for Next Three Months

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has forecast below-normal rainfall across the Special Region of Yogyakarta for the next three months, driven by a very strong El Niño expected to persist until December 2026. The agency has issued an early warning for meteorological drought, with several districts placed on alert status. Authorities are urging local governments and residents to prepare for heightened risks of forest fires and water shortages.

Maguwoharjo Ring Road Separator Removed

The central separator on the Maguwoharjo ring road in Sleman has been dismantled to prepare for the continuation of the Purwomartani-Maguwoharjo toll road section. The work, carried out by PT Jasamarga Jogja-Solo, covers approximately 1.5 kilometres and is part of the broader Jogja-Solo toll road project. The segment is currently 47 percent complete, with completion estimated for 2027.

Citi Indonesia Posts Strong Credit and Third-Party Fund Growth in First Half of 2026

Citi Indonesia reported solid first-half 2026 results, with third-party funds rising 23.29% year-on-year to Rp72.6 trillion and lending growing 8.05% to Rp29.9 trillion. Net profit reached Rp994 billion, while asset quality remained excellent with a non-performing loan ratio of 0.19% and a capital adequacy ratio of 31.43%. CEO Batara Sianturi attributed the performance to client trust and the bank's integrated Banking, Markets, and Services business lines.

Transjakarta Corridor 13 route temporarily diverted

PT Transjakarta has temporarily diverted Corridor 13, Route 13B, and Route L13E due to technical issues near Petukangan, South Jakarta. Services have been shortened to JORR Bus Stop, affecting passengers travelling towards Petukangan, Puri Beta, and Ciledug. The disruption was caused by water channel excavation works that led to traffic congestion in the area.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Chronology of Heru Choosing a Random House to Burgle Before Killing Politician's Child

Heru Anggara has been charged with the murder of MAH (9), the son of PKS Cilegon politician Maman Suherman. Prosecutors detailed how Heru, bankrupt from cryptocurrency losses, randomly selected the house using Google Maps after abandoning a plan to rob a bank. The defendant allegedly stabbed the child five times after the victim resisted being tied up, then fled without finding valuables.

10,000 electric buses targeted to operate in Jakarta by 2030

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has set a target of operating more than 10,000 electric, hydrogen, and hybrid buses in the capital by 2030, up from around 500 currently. The initiative aims to reduce emissions and air pollution in Jakarta. Operational cost savings per unit over 5.5 years are estimated at Rp3.9 billion, equivalent to the price of one 12-metre electric bus.

PNM prepares financing ecosystem for Mekaar at eight percent interest

PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) is accelerating preparations to implement the new eight percent interest rate for its Mekaar ultra-micro financing programme, targeting rollout by early September 2026. The state-owned enterprise is working with the Ministry of Finance and other agencies to ready regulations, IT systems, cooperation agreements, and liquidity support. The move aims to make capital more affordable for grassroots entrepreneurs while integrating financing with business mentoring and empowerment.

Two People Struck by Trains, Pramono Urges Jakarta Provincial Government and KAI to Strengthen Rail Safety

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has called for closer coordination between the Jakarta provincial government and state railway operator PT KAI following two separate incidents in which people were struck by trains in the capital. He noted that fencing has been installed along some rail sections to deter unauthorised crossings, but stressed that further measures are needed to improve safety around railway lines.

Kim Jong Un's Sister Admits She Was Unaware of His Communications with Trump

Kim Yo Jong, the influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, has said she was unaware of any communications between her brother and US President Donald Trump. Her remarks follow Trump's claims of a strong relationship with Kim and his announcement of a possible meeting later this year. She also dismissed the reduction of US-South Korea military exercises as unworthy of comment.

Aceh proposes economic working group within Coordinating Ministry for Political and Security Affairs coordination desk

Aceh Deputy Governor Fadhlullah has proposed the establishment of an economic development working group within the planned Aceh Coordination Desk being discussed with the Coordinating Ministry for Political and Security Affairs. The working group would focus on addressing poverty and unemployment and improving public welfare in Aceh. The coordination desk is intended to strengthen cross-ministerial coordination on strategic issues in the province.

Environment Ministry promotes community-based waste sorting through religious organisations

Indonesia's Environment Ministry is strengthening the national waste sorting movement by engaging religious communities to build moral awareness at household level. Minister Jumhur Hidayat highlighted the role of organised religious bodies such as HKBP in implementing environmental policy. The ministry is also preparing Extended Producer Responsibility regulations requiring plastic producers to manage their own waste.

Warning America, Iran to Produce Missiles with Greater Warhead Destructive Power

Iran has signalled it will deploy more destructive weaponry in any future conflict, with an IRGC spokesman stating that fragmentation warheads now far exceed those used in previous wars. The announcement comes amid ongoing hostilities that began in February 2026, with Tehran claiming it is acting in self-defence against ISIS and Israel. Israeli defence officials have reportedly expressed surprise at the speed of Iran's military recovery following early-stage attacks.

Andrea Bocelli to Perform in Jakarta and Borobudur Temple, Mark Your Calendars!

Legendary Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli will perform in Indonesia in October and November 2026 as part of his 'Romanza 30th Anniversary World Tour'. The concerts will take place at two iconic locations: Borobudur Temple in Magelang and Jakarta. Indonesia has been selected as the only public destination in Southeast Asia for the tour in 2026, making it an exclusive regional event.

Home Affairs Minister inspects Laurentius Say Maumere Port services after earthquake

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian has inspected the Laurentius Say Port in Maumere, Sikka Regency, following a recent earthquake that killed three people. Port operations have returned to normal thanks to digital backup systems, though some buildings sustained damage. The government is coordinating post-disaster relief efforts and will conduct structural assessments once aftershock risks subside.

Jakarta Air Quality Among World's Worst, Pramono Highlights Coal-Fired Power Plants

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has acknowledged that the capital remains one of the world's most polluted cities, despite significant improvements in public transport usage. He pointed to coal-fired industrial activity around Jakarta, particularly the Suralaya power complex, as a major contributor. The provincial government plans to coordinate with central authorities to address emissions from these sources.

Police Officer in Bulukumba Arrested for Alleged Attempted Rape

A police officer in Bulukumba, South Sulawesi, has been detained by the internal affairs division following allegations of attempted sexual assault against a 26-year-old woman. The officer, identified as Bripda AS, allegedly met the victim through social media before the incident occurred at her boarding house. He is currently under internal police supervision and will be held for seven days pending further investigation.

Property Tycoon Sentenced to Life Imprisonment, Here Is the Case

Evergrande founder Hui Ka Yan has been sentenced to life imprisonment by a Chinese court, five years after the property giant's collapse shook the world's second-largest economy. The former Asia's richest man pleaded guilty to eight charges including fund misuse, fraud, and bribery. The verdict marks a dramatic fall for Hui but offers little relief to Evergrande's creditors, who are still owed around US$300 billion.

West Java Anniversary: Sidkon Djampi Urges Reduction of Urban-Rural Disparity

West Java DPRD member Sidkon Djampi has called for more equitable development between urban and rural areas as the province marks its 81st anniversary. He stressed that progress should not be measured solely by economic growth in cities, but must also deliver tangible benefits to villages in education, health, infrastructure and public services. Djampi urged the provincial government to tailor development programmes to the specific needs of each region.

Import and Export Goods Transport Rules Change, Here Are 5 Points to Know

Indonesia's Ministry of Finance has issued Regulation PMK No. 51 of 2026, replacing the 2019 rules on the onward carriage of imported and exported goods. The new regulation, effective 30 August 2026, aims to improve customs services and oversight while providing legal certainty for businesses. Key changes include expanded document functions, accommodation of spare parts for international transport repairs, and broadened multimodal transport coverage.

Tanjung Priok Police educate students on artificial intelligence utilisation

The Tanjung Priok Port Police have launched an educational programme to teach vocational high school students about the responsible use of artificial intelligence. The initiative aims to equip young people with digital literacy skills while raising awareness of cybercrime risks. Eighty students from SMK Al Jihad in North Jakarta participated in the session, which included assessments and certification.

KUR disbursement in West Kalimantan reaches Rp2.60 trillion in first half of 2026

West Kalimantan disbursed Rp2.60 trillion in People's Business Credit (KUR) in the first half of 2026, reaching 57.91 percent of the annual target. The highest regular KUR realisation was recorded in Sambas Regency, while Pontianak led in housing and agriculture cluster KUR. The provincial treasury office is urging local governments to submit more potential debtor data to expand access to financing for MSMEs.

SAR Team Evacuates Elderly and Pregnant Woman Following NTT Earthquake

Joint SAR teams have intensified medical evacuation and search operations across four districts in East Nusa Tenggara following a series of aftershocks. An elderly resident and a pregnant woman were evacuated to safer facilities for medical care. Authorities remain on high alert after aftershocks reached magnitude 6.0.

Indonesia Bullion Market Association Launched as Catalyst for Bullion Industry Strengthening

The Indonesia Bullion Market Association (IBMA) has been officially launched, one year after President Prabowo Subianto introduced bullion banking activities. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto said the association is expected to create a more efficient, liquid, transparent and integrated gold market. The government hopes the initiative will unlock the potential of an estimated 1,800 tonnes of informally held public gold and support downstreaming policies.

Pramono Instructs Cloud Seeding Operation in Jakarta Skies on 21 August

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has ordered a cloud seeding operation for Friday, 21 August, to induce rainfall over the capital. The operation aims to increase precipitation for public benefit while remaining mindful of flood risks. Pramono acknowledged that cloud seeding is a technical effort without guaranteed success, but stressed the government must still make maximum efforts.

Black Sea Becomes a War Zone, Global Wheat Supply in Danger Zone

Russian and Ukrainian attacks on ports and vessels in the Black Sea and Azov Sea have halted more than 97% of the two countries' wheat export capacity, removing a major source of cheap grain from world markets. Global wheat prices have risen about 6.5% this month and are roughly 30% higher than a year earlier. Importers in the Middle East, Africa and Asia are expected to turn to Australia and the United States, but at higher logistics costs.

AI Technology to Keep Growing, MTDL Targets 10% Profit Growth This Year

PT Metrodata Electronics sees rising corporate adoption of AI in Indonesia, with 56.7% of organisations planning to raise GenAI budgets by more than 50%, far above the Asia Pacific average. The company notes a gap between investment and AI maturity, which stands at just 2.03 out of 5. MTDL is targeting 10% growth in revenue and net profit for 2026, expecting its solutions and consulting units to support the bottom line in the second half.

IIBF Strengthens Role of Muslim Entrepreneurs in National Economic Development

The Indonesian Islamic Business Forum (IIBF) has reaffirmed its commitment to becoming a more institutional organisation that contributes to national economic development. At its 17th National Gathering in Lembang, the organisation highlighted its role as a strategic partner to the government and a platform for nurturing entrepreneurs. IIBF leaders also pointed to economic disparities, including low lending to MSMEs, as areas requiring attention.

Colombia declares state of emergency in regions affected by 10 August earthquake

Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella has signed a decree declaring a 30-day economic, social and ecological state of emergency across 15 departments hit by the 10 August 2026 earthquake. The measures aim to rebuild damaged homes, restore businesses and repair critical public infrastructure such as schools and hospitals. The government cited the country's most complex fiscal situation in its republican history as justification for the extraordinary steps.

Minister: Ministry of Transportation's 2025 budget realisation reaches Rp28.68 trillion

Indonesia's Ministry of Transportation realised Rp28.68 trillion of its 2025 budget, equivalent to 88.88 percent of the effective ceiling. Minister Dudy Purwagandhi presented the figures to House Commission V, noting that personnel and goods spending exceeded 95 percent while capital expenditure lagged at 72.75 percent. The ministry's revenue has consistently exceeded targets since 2022.

Bayan Mulud Tradition ready to be held 26 August 2026

The annual Mulud Adat Bayan tradition will take place from 26–29 August 2026 at the ancient Bayan Beleq Mosque in North Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. For the first time, the event has been officially included in the national tourism calendar, Karisma Event Nusantara (KEN) 2026. Organisers emphasise that tourism must follow culture, not the reverse, with strict rules to protect the sanctity of rituals.

Frequency spectrum auction seen as positive momentum to accelerate 5G adoption in Indonesia

The Indonesian government's auction of the 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz frequency spectrum is viewed as a key opportunity to accelerate 5G adoption, with projections suggesting coverage could grow more than sixfold by 2030. GSMA Asia Pacific head Julian Gorman said the spectrum release and regulatory updates would also support industry investment and create balanced economic value. However, rising global memory and chip prices could slow adoption by making 5G-capable devices more expensive.

Genburgeract, the 'Pothole Patching Critique' Movement from Bekasi

A group of young people in Bekasi has formed Genburgeract, a volunteer movement that repairs public facilities and damaged roads as a form of constructive criticism towards the local government. The group, which began in January 2026, has gained significant social media followings and now receives donations and brand collaborations to fund its activities. Members say their work is a direct statement against the government's failure to maintain public infrastructure.

Bamsoet Urges Acceleration of Central-Regional Bureaucratic Reform

Golkar Party politician Bambang Soesatyo has called on central and regional governments to accelerate results-oriented bureaucratic reform, framing it as essential for achieving the Indonesia Emas 2045 vision. Speaking at a national coordination meeting of regional secretaries, he highlighted persistent challenges including siloed working practices, fragmented data and weak digital governance. He also proposed a real-time National Bureaucratic Reform Dashboard to strengthen oversight and identify regions requiring policy intervention.

Non-Tax State Revenue Target from Natural Resources Declines in 2027, Purbaya Reveals the Culprit

Indonesia's non-tax state revenue (PNBP) target from oil and gas natural resources is set to fall to Rp 129.9 trillion in 2027, down 5.9% from the 2026 outlook of Rp 138.1 trillion. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa attributed the decline to a lower Indonesian Crude Price assumption of US$75 per barrel, compared with the 2026 outlook of US$85 per barrel. The overall PNBP target for 2027 is Rp 517.4 trillion, a 10% drop from the 2026 outlook.

108 Schools in Malaysia Closed Due to Haze from Kalimantan Forest Fires

More than 100 schools in Sarawak, Malaysia, have been temporarily closed after air pollution levels exceeded safe thresholds due to haze from forest and land fires in Kalimantan. The Sarawak State Disaster Management Committee has ordered home-based learning for affected students and advised residents to limit outdoor activities. Air quality readings in several areas have reached 'very unhealthy' levels, with the committee warning that high-risk groups should minimise exposure to polluted air.

Jakarta to Attempt Heavy Rain via Weather Modification on Friday, Pramono: The Key Is No Flooding

The Jakarta provincial government will conduct weather modification operations on Friday, 21 August 2026, to induce rainfall over the capital. Governor Pramono Anung has ordered the operation after forecasts indicated cloud cover, though he acknowledged the technique does not guarantee rain. The move follows a similar operation on Wednesday that brought showers to Jakarta.

Two foreign nationals deported from Tanjungpinang for immigration violations

Indonesian immigration authorities in Tanjungpinang have deported two foreign nationals, one Palestinian and one Nigerian, for breaching residence permit and travel document regulations. The deportations were carried out via Soekarno-Hatta International Airport on Tuesday, 18 August. Officials emphasised that the action forms part of immigration law enforcement aimed at maintaining order and upholding state sovereignty.

1,354 Hectares of Rice Fields in Bekasi Regency Threatened by Drought

Bekasi Regency is racing to prevent a drop in agricultural output as drought threatens 1,354 hectares of productive rice fields across 41 villages and 15 sub-districts. The local agriculture office has distributed water pumps and is normalising irrigation channels to safeguard the 2026 production target of 503,000 tonnes of dry unhusked rice.

Minister Ara Needs Rp 106 Trillion Budget in 2027, Only Rp 11.77 Trillion Approved

Minister of Housing and Settlement Areas Maruarar Sirait has revealed that his ministry's 2027 budget ceiling of Rp 11.77 trillion falls far short of the Rp 106 trillion required to meet development targets. The ministry is seeking support from House Commission V to address the Rp 94.23 trillion shortfall. The minister also reported progress on budget execution and regulatory reforms to accelerate the home renovation programme.

Bogor DLH Garbage Truck Driver Found Dead 'Asleep' in Cabin

A 73-year-old garbage truck driver employed by the Bogor Regency Environmental Agency was found dead inside his vehicle in Bogor Barat. The driver, Atim Rastim, is believed to have died from illness after complaining of chest pain. His family has accepted the death as a misfortune and declined an autopsy.

Indonesia prioritizes solar power in green industry transition

Indonesia is accelerating its shift to solar energy, with Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto announcing a target of around 100 GW of solar capacity within two to three years under President Prabowo Subianto's direction. The plan includes prioritising de-dieselization on small islands and is supported by international partnerships, notably with Germany under the Just Energy Transition Partnership. Despite a US$21.4 billion funding commitment, only about US$4 billion has been utilised so far, prompting calls for faster implementation.

Indonesian Agriculture Minister deploys expert team to tackle durian disease in Central Sulawesi

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has ordered a team of experts to address the 'bangkalan' disease affecting durian crops in Central Sulawesi, which causes fruit to drop prematurely and reduces production. The move responds to appeals from local durian farmers, as the province's durian has already entered the Chinese export market. The provincial government is also collaborating with a local university on research to combat the disease.

MPR Deputy Speaker: Young Legislators Must Help Improve Democratic Quality

Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Eddy Soeparno has urged young parliamentarians to play a greater role in strengthening Indonesia's democracy. Speaking at a Habibie Center dialogue, he called for a shift from procedural to substantive democracy, where elected representatives deliver tangible policy outcomes. He highlighted climate change, energy transition, digitalisation, and economic inequality as issues requiring long-term legislative perspectives.

ParagonCorp and ARC USK Explore Aceh Patchouli Potential for Cosmetic Active Ingredients

ParagonCorp has signed a memorandum of understanding with Atsiri Research Center (ARC) at Universitas Syiah Kuala to research Aceh patchouli, particularly patchouli alcohol crystal, as a natural active ingredient for cosmetics. The collaboration combines ARC USK's expertise in essential oils and natural materials with ParagonCorp's cosmetic R&D capabilities. The partnership also covers education, research, and community service, aligning with ParagonCorp's goal of strengthening Indonesia's science and innovation ecosystem.

Trucks Account for 34.96% of PM2.5 Emissions from Jakarta's Transport Sector

A study by the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) has identified diesel vehicles, particularly trucks, as the main source of PM2.5 emissions from Jakarta's transport sector. The findings indicate that transport contributes 59.3% of the capital's air pollution, with diesel vehicles accounting for 33.1% and petrol vehicles 26.2%. Researchers are urging targeted policies, including the installation of diesel particulate filters and fleet renewal, to address the regional challenge posed by heavy vehicle mobility.

Video: Medical Tourism, World-Class Beauty Clinic Invests in Bali

The Indonesian government is promoting Sanur, Bali as a Special Economic Zone for health and medical tourism. The Solitaire, a plastic surgery and aesthetic medicine clinic, has opened in the zone to support the development of a world-class health and wellness area. Its strategy and operational director discusses the clinic's investment approach in an interview with CNBC Indonesia.

Muhammadiyah Kicks Off 'Rojolele Reborn' to Revive Klaten's Legendary Rice

Muhammadiyah's Community Empowerment Council has launched a programme to revive the legendary Rojolele rice variety in Klaten, Central Java, in collaboration with PT Danone Indonesia. The initiative aims to rebuild the agricultural ecosystem from upstream to downstream, with an initial target of five hectares and a guaranteed market through pre-orders from Muhammadiyah institutions. The programme seeks to restore farmer confidence after the Covid-19 pandemic caused a sharp decline in Rojolele cultivation.

Rupiah Closes 0.48% Stronger, US Dollar Falls to Rp17,740

The Indonesian rupiah extended its gains for a second consecutive day, appreciating 0.48% to close at Rp17,740 per US dollar on Thursday. The currency was supported by a weaker dollar after the US Treasury announced plans to double its long-term bond buyback operations to ease market volatility. Bank Indonesia's decision to hold its benchmark rate at 5.75% also provided policy certainty for investors.

Bank Aceh Syariah disburses Rp157.4 billion in civil servant pension funds in Aceh

PT Bank Aceh Syariah has disbursed Rp157.4 billion in pension payments to 45,688 civil servants in Aceh as of August 2026, following a strengthened partnership with PT Taspen. The bank received a 'very good' rating in evaluations of its cooperation with Taspen, which covers old-age savings, pensions, work accident insurance and death benefits. Bank Aceh also plans to empower pensioners through MSME activities and expand collaboration with district and city governments.

Bekasi River Polluted Again, Water Turns Black and Foamy

The Bekasi River in West Java has been polluted once more, with residents reporting blackened water, extensive foam, and foul odours. Local water utility Tirta Patriot has warned that the decline in raw water quality is affecting production at its Teluk Buyung treatment plant and reducing clean water supply to customers. The central and regional environmental agencies are coordinating a response.

Bandung Mayor Welcomes Central Government Plan to Take Over PPPK Teachers: We Await Its Realisation

Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan has welcomed the central government's plan to take over the authority for part-time and full-time PPPK teachers, saying it would ease the city's fiscal burden. He noted that Bandung spends hundreds of billions of rupiah annually on PPPK teachers. Farhan also proposed making Bandung a destination for Indonesia's International Financial Centre and said the city would adopt a budget deficit concept similar to West Java Province.

Indonesia-China to Meet Tomorrow, Taiwan and Natuna in Focus

Indonesia and China are set to hold their first Comprehensive Strategic Dialogue and a 2+2 meeting of foreign and defence ministers, with economic cooperation, investment, and regional security on the agenda. Officials stressed that the timing is a scheduled diplomatic engagement rather than a response to recent tensions around Taiwan. Maritime cooperation, including the Natuna issue and joint development commitments, will also be discussed.

West Java BPBD deploys 20 personnel to assist NTT earthquake victims

The West Java Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has dispatched 20 personnel to Nusa Tenggara Timur to support earthquake response efforts. The team will conduct assessments and coordinate with local authorities to ensure aid from West Java is distributed effectively. The deployment follows a directive from the West Java Governor to ensure community donations are channelled in a planned and needs-based manner.

Bakom affirms no discourse on making BI part of government

The Indonesian Government Communication Agency (Bakom RI) has dismissed speculation about placing Bank Indonesia under government control, citing constitutional protections for the central bank's independence. Senior expert Fithra Faisal Hastiadi emphasised that independence does not preclude coordination between fiscal and monetary authorities. He noted that the government and BI pursue different objectives, with the former focused on growth and welfare and the latter on monetary stability.

Bareskrim Dismantles Drug Network in Riau, Seizes 1,400 Etomidate Vapes

The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Department (Bareskrim) has arrested three suspects and seized 1,400 ready-to-use vapes containing the narcotic etomidate in Bengkalis, Riau. The operation also uncovered 118 ecstasy pills and led to the identification of three fugitives, including a Malaysian national. Authorities are continuing to pursue the remaining suspects as part of an ongoing investigation into the drug distribution network.

Israel Finally Admits Shooting at Car Carrying Hind Rajab, 5-Year-Old Girl in Gaza

The Israeli military has acknowledged that its forces opened fire on the vehicle carrying five-year-old Palestinian girl Hind Rajab in Gaza in 2024, prompting a formal criminal investigation. The admission follows international outrage over the child's desperate calls for help before she was found dead alongside six family members and two paramedics. The military has also announced a separate criminal probe into the deaths of 15 medics and aid workers in southern Gaza in March 2025.

Police deliver aid to NTT earthquake victims by air

The Indonesian National Police have deployed aircraft and helicopters to distribute humanitarian aid to communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The airlift aims to accelerate logistics delivery during the post-disaster response and recovery period. Shipments include medicines, blankets, sarongs, folding mattresses, clothing and other essential supplies.

Nagekeo Earthquake Survivors Forced to Buy Clean Water at Rp 2,000 per Jerry Can

Displaced residents in Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, are struggling to access clean water following a recent earthquake, with many forced to purchase water at Rp 2,000 per five-litre jerry can. Local police have begun distributing free water and basic supplies to affected villages, but demand remains urgent across makeshift evacuation posts.

BI and Navy Sovereign Rupiah Expedition Targets Five Islands Affected by NTT Earthquake

Bank Indonesia and the Indonesian Navy have launched the 2026 Sovereign Rupiah Expedition to five islands in East Nusa Tenggara affected by earthquakes. The mission combines currency exchange services under the clean money policy with humanitarian aid distribution. The expedition carries Rp4.3 billion in cash and approximately three tonnes of basic food packages and drinking water.

Thousands of PPPK in Central Java Breathe Easier as DAU and DBH Funds Are Disbursed

Eighteen local governments in Central Java have received Rp268 billion in additional central government transfers to cover salary payments for government contract workers (PPPK) after facing fiscal difficulties. The funds, comprising Rp184 billion in General Allocation Funds (DAU) and Rp83 billion in Revenue Sharing Funds (DBH), follow a Finance Ministry decree issued in August 2026. Central Java's deputy governor welcomed the relief but noted that a proposal to convert PPPK teachers into central government employees is still awaiting technical guidance from the Home Affairs Ministry.

Riau Drug Syndicate's Tactic: Hiding Etomidate in Bushes Using a 'Map'

The National Police's Criminal Investigation Directorate (Bareskrim) has uncovered an etomidate trafficking operation in Rupat, Bengkalis Regency, Riau, where a hand-drawn map was used to locate drugs hidden in undergrowth. Three suspects have been arrested, with police estimating the seized narcotics to be worth over Rp 4.3 billion. Authorities are still pursuing three fugitives, including a Malaysian national.

PGE Pursues 1 GW Geothermal Target and Aims to Become No. 1 Geothermal Company by 2028

PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy (PGE) is confident of adding 1 gigawatt of geothermal power capacity by 2028 and up to 1.8 GW by 2033. The company acknowledges significant capital expenditure and drilling risks but is actively engaging global financial institutions for green financing. PGE's expansion aligns with the government's Asta Cita goal of national energy security.

Distant Water Sources Hamper Forest and Land Fire Suppression in East Kotawaringin, Central Kalimantan

Firefighters and volunteers in East and West Kotawaringin, Central Kalimantan, are struggling to contain forest and land fires as distant water sources and equipment shortages hinder operations. At least 22 fire points were tackled simultaneously in one day, while accumulated hotspots this year have reached 3,840 and burned area stands at around 1,317 hectares. A volunteer required hospital treatment after suffering breathing difficulties and exhaustion during firefighting efforts.

Purbaya Confident Cigarette Excise Revenue Will Rise in 2027

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has expressed confidence that cigarette excise revenue will increase in 2027, supporting overall customs and excise receipts in the 2027 State Budget Draft. The government targets excise revenue of Rp 235.3 trillion, up 0.4% from the 2026 outlook, backed by strengthened supervision and risk-based management at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise.

Central Java Government Holds MSME Exhibition to Celebrate 81st Anniversary

The Central Java provincial government organised an MSME exhibition featuring over 100 tenants from various regions as part of the province's 81st anniversary celebrations. Governor Ahmad Luthfi emphasised that MSMEs are the backbone of the regional economy, with nearly 4.8 million enterprises across 35 regencies and cities receiving priority support in capital access, marketing, and packaging. The event also included a job fair and other activities aimed at fostering economic growth and collaboration.

Targeting 6% Growth, Government Invites German Companies to Invest in Indonesia

Indonesia is seeking to accelerate economic growth to 6% by attracting strategic investment from German companies. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto highlighted first-half growth of 5.05% and outlined partnership opportunities in renewable energy, precision manufacturing, and vocational education. German Minister Reem Alabali Radovan responded positively, noting that over 250 German firms already operate in Indonesia and expressing interest in long-term partnerships.

Batam Cooperative Office records 57 micro businesses utilising Rp20 million loans

The Batam Cooperative and Micro Enterprise Office (Diskum) has recorded 57 micro business operators taking advantage of a zero-interest loan programme of up to Rp20 million as of 19 August 2026. The programme, supported by Rp3 billion from the 2026 regional budget, involves three partner banks and requires no collateral or administrative fees. Diskum is also expanding market access for local products through the newly inaugurated D'KUMI Gallery at Sekupang International Ferry Terminal.

China charges 17 members of Myanmar-based human trafficking ring targeting Chinese citizens

Chinese prosecutors have charged 17 members of a Myanmar-based human trafficking syndicate accused of luring citizens abroad and selling them to scam compounds, with actor Wang Xing among the victims. The case highlights Beijing's ongoing pressure campaign against Southeast Asian scam hubs, which continue to pose a significant cross-border security challenge despite crackdowns.

Karangasem Flag-Raising Squad to Receive Hundreds of Millions in Appreciation Money

The Karangasem Regency Government will provide appreciation payments of Rp 6 million per person to 50 members of the local flag-raising squad (Paskibra) who served at the 81st Independence Day ceremony. The Head of the National Unity and Politics Agency stated the payment reflects the government's recognition of the squad's performance. A study tour may also be arranged pending budget approval in the revised regional budget.

NTB High Prosecutor's Office Appeals Acquittal of MXGP Samota Land Appraisal Team

The West Nusa Tenggara High Prosecutor's Office has filed an appeal against the acquittal of two defendants in the MXGP Samota land procurement corruption case. The Mataram Corruption Court ruled that the actions of the two public appraisal professionals constituted only an administrative violation, not a criminal offence. The defendants have been released from custody pending the appeal.

Import and Export Goods Transport Rules Change, Businesses Need to Know These Five Points

Indonesia's Ministry of Finance has issued Regulation No. 51 of 2026 on the onward carriage of imported and exported goods, replacing the 2019 rules. The new regulation, effective 30 August 2026, introduces five key improvements covering document functions, spare parts for international transport, multimodal transport, administrative oversight, and technical provisions. Customs authorities are urging businesses to use the 30-day transition period to familiarise themselves with the changes.

Macau SAR releases development plan for 2026-2030 period

The Macau Special Administrative Region has unveiled its Third Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development (2026-2030), setting eight development goals including economic diversification and deeper integration with mainland China. Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai outlined four key tasks for the period, emphasising major projects, government guidance funds, and enhanced connectivity with both mainland China and the world. The plan was finalised following a public consultation held from 20 May to 28 June.

Three Argo Trains on Jakarta–Semarang Route to Be Renamed KA Muria from October 2026

State railway operator KAI will consolidate three existing Argo-branded services between Semarang Tawang and Gambir, Jakarta, under a single name, KA Muria, starting 1 October 2026. The change is part of a broader effort to simplify service identity. Passengers have responded by calling for service improvements and fleet renewal alongside the rebranding.

PGE Boss Unveils Series of Geothermal Projects to Pursue 1 GW Target

PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy (PGE) is advancing multiple geothermal power plant projects to reach 1 GW of installed capacity by 2028, up from the current 727 MW. The company also aims to become the world's largest geothermal firm by 2034 with 1.8 GW capacity. Beyond electricity, PGE is piloting green hydrogen production at Ulubelu, scheduled to begin in November.

Bali and NTB Governors Personally Deliver Aid to NTT Earthquake Victims

The governors of Bali and West Nusa Tenggara travelled to Labuan Bajo to hand over humanitarian assistance for communities affected by the recent earthquakes in East Nusa Tenggara. Bali provided aid worth Rp1 billion, while NTB delivered basic logistics including rice, drinking water and tents. Bank Mandiri also contributed around Rp300 million in donations collected from employees and customers.

Electric Vehicles, Oil Demand, and the Future of Energy Security

China's rapid adoption of electric vehicles is fundamentally reshaping global oil demand, displacing an estimated 1.35 million barrels per day in the first half of 2026 alone. This shift is moving the centre of gravity in energy markets from supply-side concerns towards demand destruction, with significant implications for investors and national energy security strategies. The article argues that energy security is no longer solely about securing oil supply but increasingly about reducing oil demand through transport electrification.

Fearful of Aftershocks, Manggarai Residents in NTT Need Tents

Residents of Manggarai Regency in East Nusa Tenggara are in urgent need of emergency tents after a magnitude 7.7 earthquake, as continuing aftershocks have made them afraid to return to their homes. A local legislator says tent stocks in Ruteng are exhausted and prices have soared, while the meteorology agency expects aftershocks to continue for up to 30 days. The central government has dispatched 253 tonnes of relief supplies, but residents say tents remain the most critical unmet need.

Electric Motorcycle Incentive Reduced to Rp3 Million per Unit

The Indonesian government has reduced the incentive for electric motorcycle purchases from Rp5 million to Rp3 million per unit, with a total budget of Rp3 trillion targeting up to 1 million units. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa indicated that full disbursement is unlikely this year due to limited national production capacity. The government will evaluate the programme's uptake before considering any budget adjustments.

Airlangga: Bali Location for Financial Center Under Review

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has confirmed that the proposed site for the Indonesian International Financial Centre in Bali is still under evaluation, with the location tied to land owned by Danantara. The government had targeted completion of the technical regulation by August 2026, but Airlangga indicated he has not yet reviewed the details. The financial centre is planned for both Jakarta and Bali, with a range of incentives being prepared to attract global investors.

What property giant Evergrande's sentence means for China's economy

A Shenzhen court has sentenced Evergrande founder Xu Jiayin to life in prison and fined the group over US$2 billion for fraud, capping a years-long saga that has come to symbolise China's property sector crisis. The ruling signals Beijing's continued refusal to bail out indebted developers, even as the real estate slump continues to weigh on consumer confidence and economic growth. With new-home prices falling and property investment down sharply, the case underscores the structural challenges facing China's shift towards a consumption-driven economy.

Gold Bank Development Begins with Sharia Aspect, BSI Prepares Products

Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) is integrating sharia principles from the outset of Indonesia's bullion ecosystem development. The Indonesia Bullion Market Association (IBMA) aims to integrate gold industry players and strengthen public literacy to bring gold further into the financial industry.

Basarnas evacuates elderly and pregnant women in NTT suffering illness and earthquake trauma

Indonesia's National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) has intensified medical evacuations for vulnerable groups in East Nusa Tenggara following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake and ongoing aftershocks. Two survivors requiring special medical attention have been evacuated, including an elderly person and a pregnant woman suffering psychological trauma. SAR teams remain on full alert across four affected regencies, coordinating with local disaster agencies and the Health Ministry.

Semarang's Sampangan Merah Putih Cooperative Emptied, Management Questions Status

The management of the Sampangan Merah Putih Village Cooperative (KKMP) in Semarang has been ordered to vacate its premises, reportedly on instructions from central command, with PT Agrinas Pangan Nusantara expected to restock the outlet. The five managers and three supervisors now face uncertainty over whether they will be retained or replaced. The Semarang Cooperatives and SMEs Office is seeking an alternative location for the cooperative to resume operations.

Cambodia's tax revenue rises 8.4 percent in first half of 2026

Cambodia collected $3.58 billion in tax revenue during the first half of 2026, an 8.4 percent increase year-on-year. The Ministry of Economy and Finance attributed the growth to stronger tax enforcement, improved customs governance, and robust revenue from sand export taxes. The performance remained solid despite global fuel price pressures linked to the Middle East conflict.

Handling NTT Earthquake Victims, Indonesia Does Not Yet Need US Assistance

Indonesia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that the country is still relying on its own national capacity and resources to deal with the aftermath of the 7.7 magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. While appreciating offers of solidarity and assistance from friendly nations, the government has indicated that foreign aid is not yet required. Foreign Minister Sugiono has personally conveyed the government's gratitude to several ambassadors for their expressions of concern.

Flagship products of 550 MSMEs enliven Karya Kreatif Indonesia 2026

Bank Indonesia has opened the Karya Kreatif Indonesia 2026 exhibition in Jakarta, showcasing flagship products from 550 micro, small and medium enterprises across the country. The event, themed 'Strengthening Synergy to Drive MSMEs to Rise, Be Resilient and Competitive', was attended by several ministers and the Chairwoman of the National Crafts Council. It aims to promote Indonesian craftsmanship and support the recovery and competitiveness of the MSME sector.

Batam Curly Red Chilli Prices Rose 15.3% in July, Now Beginning to Fall

The price of curly red chillies in Batam surged by 15.3% in July 2026, peaking at Rp50,350 per kilogram due to supply shortages from outside the region. Prices have since begun to ease in August as supply flows recover, though the spike contributed 0.20% to Batam's inflation rate. Local authorities continue to monitor distribution to prevent excessive price increases.

Severe Forest Fires Engulf Kalimantan, BNPB Responds

Satellite imagery from Google Maps shows widespread severe fire indicators across Kalimantan, with the highest concentration in South Kalimantan, prompting public concern over smoke haze and drought risks. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has confirmed that ground and air task forces are working to extinguish the fires, though no airport closures have been reported. The article also reviews the historical record of forest and land fires in Indonesia, noting that the 1982-1983 Kalimantan fires caused an estimated US$9 billion in economic losses.

House Commission VII pushes for stronger national electric vehicle industry

Deputy Chair of House Commission VII Chusnunia has urged the government to accelerate development of Indonesia's battery-based electric vehicle industry to support transport decarbonisation and boost domestic economic value. She called for policy support to enable mass production and competitiveness against foreign brands. The push follows President Prabowo Subianto's launch of the National Electric Motorcycle (MoLiNas) and its supporting ecosystem.

Passengers recount running between platforms as KRL to Jakarta Kota disrupted

Commuters on the Bogor–Jakarta Kota KRL line faced significant disruption on Thursday morning after a person was struck by a train near Tebet Station. Passengers were redirected to a single platform, causing overcrowding and chaotic scenes as people ran to cross between platforms. KAI Commuter apologised for the delays and said services gradually returned to normal after the victim was evacuated.

Pramono Says Suralaya Contributes to Jakarta Pollution, Urges Central Government to Intervene

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has highlighted that air pollution in the capital is not solely caused by transport, pointing to industrial activity in surrounding areas such as the Suralaya complex in Banten. He called for central government coordination to address emissions from the wider agglomeration, particularly the use of coal by industries in buffer zones. Pramono argued that restricting coal use in these areas would significantly improve pollution control efforts.

Jakarta Provincial Government to Conduct Weather Modification Operation on Friday to Trigger Artificial Rain

The Jakarta Provincial Government will carry out a weather modification operation (OMC) on Friday, 21 August 2026, to induce rainfall over the capital. Governor Pramono Anung has ordered the operation after forecasts indicated cloud cover, with the aim of turning light drizzle into heavier, more beneficial rain while avoiding flooding. A similar operation on Wednesday already brought rain to Jakarta.

CBL International Reports Strong 1H 2026 Results

CBL International, the listing vehicle of marine fuel logistics firm Banle Group, returned to profitability in the first half of 2026 with net income of $1.50 million, driven by a 49.2% revenue increase and a more than doubling of gross profit. The company expanded its global port network to over 70 locations and acquired a majority stake in Green Marine Energy Holdings, strengthening its upstream capabilities. A special cash dividend of $0.10 per share was declared, and a reverse share split helped the company regain Nasdaq listing compliance.

Attorney General's Office Awaits Judge's Ruling on Request to Return Febrie Adriansyah's Seized Evidence

The Attorney General's Office has said it will await the pretrial judge's decision on a request by former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah's legal team for the return of evidence seized from his family home. The request was made during a pretrial hearing at the South Jakarta District Court, with the AGO maintaining that the seizure was part of its investigative strategy. The judge will now consider objections relating to both the seizure and Febrie's suspect status.

House member urges government to prioritise PPPK teachers in 3T regions for civil service appointment

A member of House Commission X has called on the government to prioritise teachers with government work agreements (PPPK) serving in frontier, outermost, and disadvantaged (3T) regions for selection and appointment as civil servants (PNS). The lawmaker argued that such regions face greater educational challenges and that prioritising them would recognise teachers' service and help retain quality educators. The House and government have previously finalised plans for PPPK teachers to become PNS through selection in 2027.

Hong Kong emerges as top professional services platform for Mainland enterprises going global

New research from the Hong Kong Trade Development Council shows that Mainland Chinese enterprises are increasingly using Hong Kong as their primary professional services hub for international expansion, with 83% of surveyed firms naming it their first choice. The survey highlights growing interest in Belt and Road Initiative markets, ASEAN economies, and emerging regions such as the Middle East and Latin America. Hong Kong's role is seen as pivotal in helping businesses navigate challenges including shifting trade policies, rising protectionism, and supply chain reconfiguration.

NTB High Prosecutor's Office appeals release of two defendants in MXGP land case

The NTB High Prosecutor's Office has filed an appeal against a court ruling that released two defendants from all legal charges in a corruption case involving land procurement for the MXGP circuit in Samota, Sumbawa Regency. The Mataram Corruption Court found the defendants' actions proven but ruled they did not constitute a criminal offence, prompting the prosecution to challenge the decision. The case involves state losses of Rp6.7 billion, which the court ordered to be returned to the Sumbawa Regency government.

Not Bekasi-Karawang! Factories Flock to Subang, What's Going On?

Industrial activity around Greater Jakarta is expanding eastwards beyond traditional hubs like Bekasi and Karawang, with Subang emerging as a new destination. Knight Frank Indonesia notes that new land supply and more competitive prices are attracting manufacturers to the region. Land prices in Subang and Sukabumi are below the typical range of Rp2 million to Rp3 million per square metre.

After Several Ship Accidents, Transport Minister Strengthens Maritime Safety System

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has pledged a comprehensive overhaul of maritime safety following a series of ship accidents. Speaking before House Commission V, he stressed that safety must be ensured at every stage of a voyage, not just after incidents occur. The ministry is strengthening layered prevention measures, including stricter inspections and enforcement, with major deficiencies resulting in departure delays or sailing bans.

BNPB steps up aid delivery to remote earthquake-hit villages

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) is intensifying aid distribution to remote villages in West Manggarai, Flores, that had not received assistance four days after a magnitude-7.7 earthquake. The agency recorded 148 damaged houses and over 1,100 displaced people, while acknowledging logistical challenges posed by limited access and residents self-evacuating due to aftershock trauma. The government has pledged housing repair grants of up to Rp30 million for damaged homes and will fund permanent housing for severely affected families.

BNPT: Economic empowerment ensures sustainable deradicalisation

Indonesia's National Counter-Terrorism Agency (BNPT) has emphasised that economic empowerment is essential for ensuring the deradicalisation process remains sustainable. The agency, together with other ministries and institutions, is developing entrepreneurship among former terrorism convicts through farming, livestock and fisheries programmes on land owned by state-owned PT Sang Hyang Seri. The initiative aims to support social reintegration, economic independence and the national food security agenda.

Health Ministry expands free TB screening coverage to Islamic boarding schools

Indonesia's Health Ministry is extending free tuberculosis screening to Islamic boarding schools, starting with Tebuireng in Jombang, East Java, where 26 students were found to have indications of TB. The ministry plans to purchase thousands of portable X-ray devices to reach schools, pesantren and prisons, particularly densely populated residential settings. Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin stressed that TB should not carry stigma, as treatment is free and effective, and that early detection is key to reducing Indonesia's annual TB death toll of 120,000–140,000.

OJK Tasikmalaya educates Sekolah Rakyat students on saving culture

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) in Tasikmalaya has provided financial literacy education to 80 students at Sekolah Rakyat Terintegrasi 41, covering saving habits, money management, and the risks of online gambling. The programme, held to mark Indonesia Saving Day 2026, aims to equip students with life skills for better financial decision-making. The school's head teacher welcomed the initiative as an important complement to academic learning.

Indonesia Bullion Market Association Officially Formed, Aims to Create Gold Hub

The Indonesia Bullion Market Association (IBMA) has been officially established to coordinate the national gold ecosystem and serve as a strategic partner to the government. The association plans to build an Indonesia Gold Hub, enhance cross-border market connectivity, and align domestic bullion standards with international benchmarks. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto emphasised the need for improved traceability in the gold supply chain, noting that illegal mining remains a challenge.

Attending Singapore's 61st National Day, Khofifah Encourages Expansion of Investment Cooperation

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has reaffirmed her province's commitment to strengthening ties with Singapore through concrete collaboration in investment, trade, and human resource development. Speaking at Singapore's 61st National Day reception in Jakarta, she highlighted that Singaporean investment in East Java ranked among the top three over the past three years. A trade and investment mission to Singapore in November 2025 recorded transactions exceeding Rp4.163 trillion across 21 deals.

Surabaya City Government Intensifies AI-Based Digital Innovation to Pursue Rp43 Trillion Investment Target

The Surabaya city government is accelerating its investment climate to reach a Rp43 trillion realisation target in 2026, a significant increase from previous years. Mayor Eri Cahyadi is relying on digital licensing transparency and speed, including artificial intelligence and an Investment Clinic, to build investor trust. The initiative is being assessed by the Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming/BKPM for the 2026 Investment Service Award.

Baznas studies muzaki management reorientation to boost public trust

Indonesia's National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) is reviewing its muzaki management approach, shifting towards value-driven fundraising to strengthen public confidence in zakat, infak and sedekah collection. The strategy has already lifted muzaki retention from 17 per cent to 80 per cent, according to agency officials. Baznas is focusing on four pillars: zakat propagation, zakat impact, muzaki management and muzaki engagement.

Elderly Man Dies After Being Grazed by Commuter Line Train in Tebet, Services Disrupted

An 80-year-old man died after being struck by a Commuter Line train on the Bogor–Jakarta Kota route in Tebet, South Jakarta, on Thursday morning. The incident caused temporary disruption to train services due to damage to the train's braking system. KAI Commuter also reported a separate incident on the Tangerang line involving a motorcycle at an unofficial crossing.

PUMK programme helps micro and small enterprises move up a class

Pertamina's Micro and Small Enterprise Funding (PUMK) programme has enabled small businesses to survive global challenges and expand their market reach. A batik entrepreneur in Batu, East Java, used the funding to maintain operations during the pandemic and now exports to countries including the United States, Japan, Germany, and Russia. Although the programme ended in 2022 and was transferred to Bank BRI, Pertamina continues to provide mentoring through its UMKM Academy.

Jasa Marga strengthens toll road reliability through sustainable preservation

State-owned toll road operator PT Jasa Marga is carrying out routine preservation works across its network to maintain pavement quality and ensure safe, smooth mobility. The works, mostly conducted at night to minimise disruption, include patching, scrapping and filling, and pavement reconstruction. The company says reliable toll roads are vital for supporting economic activity and logistics distribution between regions.

Foreign aid for NTT: Foreign Ministry says focus on national capacity

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has stated that foreign assistance is not yet needed for the 7.7 magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, as the government prioritises using national capacity and resources. Spokesperson Yvonne Mewengkang expressed appreciation for international solidarity and offers of help, while confirming that discussions with China on potential aid may continue during upcoming strategic dialogue. The death toll from the 15 August earthquake has reached 71, with 398 tonnes of aid already distributed.

PJT I prepares SWMS to prevent recurrence of major Bali floods

State-owned water resources company Perum Jasa Tirta I is deploying a Smart Water Management System in Bali to mitigate future flooding, following the severe floods that hit Denpasar in September 2025. The system will replace manual monitoring with real-time telemetry and automated early warning alerts. Initial installations will focus on critical points in Denpasar and Badung, including Tukad Mati and Muara Reservoir.

Health Ministry Confirms Ruteng Field Hospital in NTT Operational After Earthquake

The Ministry of Health has activated a field hospital in Ruteng, East Nusa Tenggara, to support medical services following a recent earthquake. The facility has already performed its first surgery, treating an 11-year-old boy with a fractured femur. The hospital was rapidly deployed through the Health Emergency Operation Center to maintain healthcare capacity in the affected area.

Bridge on Trans Flores Road Damaged, Aid Delivery Access Disrupted

A bridge on the northern Trans Flores route in East Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, is at risk of collapse following a 5.8 magnitude aftershock on Thursday. The bridge, which connects Reo to Dampek, is a vital route for delivering logistics and medical personnel to earthquake-affected areas. Local residents report that four-wheeled vehicles can no longer cross the 30-metre bridge, threatening the flow of aid to victims in Dampek and surrounding areas.

Riau Police Chief and Military Commander Join Direct Effort to Extinguish Forest Fires in Pelalawan

Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan and Military Commander Major General Agus Hadi Waluyo conducted an aerial patrol and joined ground crews to fight forest and land fires in Pelalawan Regency. The officials emphasised the need for rapid, coordinated response involving police, military, local government and other agencies. They also highlighted prevention, early detection, public education and law enforcement as key parts of the broader strategy.

Nagekeo Earthquake Evacuees Still Lack Clean Water and Baby Nappies

Displaced residents affected by the Nagekeo earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara continue to face shortages of basic necessities, including clean water, sleeping mats, baby nappies and blankets. Evacuees at Berdikari Danga Field in Mbay have also reported that specific needs for pregnant women and infants remain unmet. The situation is compounded by ongoing aftershocks, which have left many, particularly children, traumatised.

Key Lessons from the Iran–US War: Logistics

The ongoing conflict between Iran and the United States and Israel has exposed significant logistical and strategic weaknesses, particularly for Washington. Shifting war aims, depleted munitions stockpiles, and crew fatigue aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln highlight the challenges of a prolonged, unplanned campaign.

PB Akuatik develops talent through diaspora and student-athlete programme

The Indonesian Aquatics Federation (PB Akuatik) is pursuing a two-way talent development strategy in the United States, scouting young diaspora athletes of Indonesian descent while also sending domestic athletes through a student-athlete programme. The federation has been monitoring some diaspora talents for around two years, with a focus on performance and long-term potential rather than heritage alone. Five Indonesian student-athletes have been sent to the US this year, all receiving scholarships.

EMPOWER Programme Concludes in Sulawesi, StC and Cargill Honour Three Partner Organisations

Save the Children and Cargill have recognised three local partner organisations for their role in implementing the EMPOWER Programme, which tackled child labour in Sulawesi's cocoa-producing communities. The appreciation was delivered during a learning workshop in Palu attended by government officials and supply chain stakeholders. The programme focused on strengthening community-based child protection systems, livelihoods, and the empowerment of women and youth.

PT Petrokimia Gresik encourages farmers to boost chilli productivity

State-owned fertiliser producer PT Petrokimia Gresik is helping chilli farmers in East Java raise yields through its 'Pestani Rawit Groo Festival' programme. Demonstration plots achieved harvests of 11.5 tonnes per hectare, up 13–15 per cent from the previous 10 tonnes. The initiative supports national food security, as East Java accounts for around 35 per cent of Indonesia's bird's eye chilli production.

Former PGN President Director sentenced to four years in prison over gas trading case

Hendi Prio Santoso, former President Director of state gas company PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (PGN), has been sentenced to four years in prison for corruption related to a gas sale and purchase agreement between PT PGN and PT IAE. The Jakarta Corruption Court also imposed a Rp200 million fine and ordered him to pay S$500,000 in restitution. The case concerns gas trading cooperation at PGN between 2017 and 2021.

Purbaya Reveals US Imitates Indonesia in Managing Bond Market Pressure

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has claimed that the United States is following Indonesia's lead in using budget instruments to stabilise its bond market. He pointed to Indonesia's earlier implementation of a bond buyback scheme as an example of international best practice. The US Treasury has announced it will double the size of its long-dated debt buyback operations to support market liquidity.

Purbaya: US Imitates Indonesia in Managing Bond Market Pressure

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has claimed that the United States is following Indonesia's lead in using budget instruments to stabilise its bond market. He pointed to Indonesia's earlier implementation of a bond buyback scheme as an example of international best practice. The US Treasury recently announced it would double the size of its long-dated bond buyback operations to support market liquidity.

Reading BPS Data: Who Will Speak Regional Languages in 30 Years?

New data from Statistics Indonesia (BPS) reveals a clear generational decline in the use of regional languages, with only 60.93 percent of children aged 5–9 using them compared to 86.56 percent of those aged 75 and above. The consistent downward trend across age groups indicates a language shift is underway, as older generations remain fluent but are increasingly failing to transmit their mother tongues to younger Indonesians. The findings raise concerns about the long-term viability of Indonesia's hundreds of regional languages.

BRIN stresses post-disaster disease control cannot be uniform

A National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) researcher has warned that post-disaster disease intervention must be tailored to each type of natural disaster, as volcanic eruptions, floods and tsunamis carry distinct risk profiles. Ristiyanto urged policymakers to conduct rapid transmission studies and implement early, targeted measures to prevent outbreaks of vector-borne and reservoir-borne diseases.

Indonesian Agriculture Minister motivates Tadulako University graduates to achieve success through hard work

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman encouraged graduates of Tadulako University in Palu, Central Sulawesi, to pursue success through self-confidence, perseverance, and hard work. Speaking at the university's 45th anniversary and 138th graduation ceremony, he shared his own story of overcoming economic hardship and rejection. He also highlighted the broad opportunities in the agricultural sector, particularly in Central Sulawesi.

Andre Rosiade Confirms Three Suspension Bridges in Pesisir Selatan Completed

Deputy Chairman of House Commission VI Andre Rosiade has confirmed the completion of the Koto Rawang suspension bridge in Pesisir Selatan, West Sumatra, which was destroyed by a galodo disaster. Three of five proposed suspension bridges in the regency are now finished, with the remaining two targeted for completion by December 2026. The project forms part of the central government's Rp18 trillion rehabilitation and reconstruction programme for West Sumatra following recent disasters.

Open to People with Disabilities, Central Java Anniversary Job Fair Offers 4,817 Vacancies

The Central Java provincial government held a job fair on 20-21 August 2026, offering 4,817 vacancies from 48 companies across various sectors. The event was notably inclusive, with curated positions specifically available for job seekers with disabilities. Officials highlighted that investment realisation in Central Java reached Rp 59.94 trillion in the first half of 2026, absorbing 213,217 workers.

Bank Credit Growth Soars 13.6%, but Businesses Hold Back Borrowing

Indonesia's bank credit growth accelerated to 13.58% year-on-year in July, exceeding Bank Indonesia's target range, yet Rp 2,548 quadrillion in approved credit facilities remained undisbursed as businesses stayed cautious amid economic uncertainty. Investment loans led the expansion at 25.13%, while consumer lending remained weak at 5.38%, and banks' liquidity buffers declined. Economists expect corporate lending to continue driving growth in the second half of 2026, with manufacturing and construction among the most attractive sectors.

Mataram Agriculture Office assures safe cattle supply ahead of Prophet Muhammad's Birthday 1448 H

The Mataram Agriculture Office in West Nusa Tenggara has confirmed that live cattle supplies are sufficient to meet increased demand for the Prophet Muhammad's Birthday celebrations in 2026. The office is increasing weekly cattle shipment quotas from Sumbawa and issuing permits for frozen meat imports to help stabilise supply. Slaughter rates at the city's two abattoirs are expected to rise from 35-40 to 50-60 head per day during the peak celebration period.

Pondo Village Residents in West Manggarai Hold On Amid Threat of Hunger and Aftershocks

Five days after the earthquake that struck Lembor, residents of Pondo Village in Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, remain in emergency tents as aftershocks continue. Food and clean water supplies are running low, with children and the elderly most vulnerable. Residents are appealing for immediate distribution of basic necessities.

Purbaya Prepares Rp 31 Trillion for Transfer of PPPK Status to Central Government

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa announced that the government has allocated approximately Rp 31 trillion to convert part-time government contract workers (PPPK) into central government employees. The transfer will be phased, with around 541,000 PPPK expected to be converted initially, while the overall process may take up to three years. The minister assured that the allocation will not alter the 2.4 percent budget deficit target for the 2027 state budget.

Batam Trade Office deploys mobile grocery van to meet residents' needs

The Batam Industry and Trade Office has launched a mobile grocery service, Mobil GASING, to sell staple goods at crowded locations across the city. The initiative aims to stabilise prices and ensure residents can access essential commodities such as cooking oil, eggs and rice. It is part of broader efforts to control local inflation, which eased to 4.33 per cent year-on-year in July 2026.

Don't Misread Economists

An opinion piece argues that Indonesian economic debate is too often reduced to a simplistic choice between free markets and state intervention. The author contends that different economic thinkers address different questions, and that the key issue for Indonesia is whether its rules reward innovation and productivity over rent-seeking and privilege.

Indonesia's Geothermal Development Still Facing Obstacles, PGE Chief Offers These Suggestions

Indonesia has only tapped 11% of its 24 GW geothermal potential despite holding 40% of the world's resources. The president director of Pertamina Geothermal Energy has called for improved investment conditions and policy revisions to accelerate development. He highlighted the upcoming Indonesia International Geothermal Convention & Exhibition 2026 as a key opportunity to address bottlenecks and attract investors.

Tasting Jogja's Sekaten Sego Gurih, Available Only Once a Year

Sego gurih, a savoury rice dish, is being sold only during the week-long Hajad Dalem Sekaten celebration at the Yogyakarta Palace, marking the Prophet Muhammad's birthday. Vendors like Iin, who inherited the trade from her mother-in-law, sell the dish for Rp10,000 per portion, continuing a tradition dating back to Sultan Agung's era. The dish, adapted from Arab nasi samin, is eagerly awaited by locals as an annual family tradition.

Fadli Zon Visits Soekarno and Hatta Villas in Puncak, What's Happening?

Culture Minister Fadli Zon has inspected two historic villas in Puncak, Bogor, linked to Indonesia's first president and vice president, Soekarno and Mohammad Hatta. The government is pushing for both properties to be designated as cultural heritage sites and developed into historical tourism destinations. The initiative aims to preserve national history while generating economic benefits for surrounding communities.

Schools in South Kalimantan Instructed to Implement Health Protocols Amid Forest Fire and Haze Impacts

The South Kalimantan Education Office has issued a circular requiring all schools to implement strict health protocols in response to worsening air quality from forest and land fires. Schools are advised to reduce outdoor activities, require masks, and may shift to online learning if haze conditions deteriorate. The provincial health office has also reported a rise in respiratory illnesses, including ISPA and pneumonia, linked to the haze.

Pekanbaru Mayor Ensures No More Withholding of School Certificates

Pekanbaru Mayor Agung Nugroho has pledged to end the practice of schools withholding student certificates over unpaid fees. Residents facing such issues are urged to report them at district offices. The policy supports the city's Zero Dropout programme, ensuring financial or administrative problems do not block children's access to education.

Drought Hits IKN Residents in Karang Jinawi Village, PPU, Causing Clean Water Crisis

Residents of eight neighbourhood units in Karang Jinawi Village, located within the Nusantara Capital City (IKN) area in Penajam Paser Utara, East Kalimantan, are facing a clean water crisis due to a prolonged dry season. The drought has dried up rivers and absorption wells, forcing residents to buy water or rely on aid from companies and government agencies. Local authorities have distributed over 62,000 litres of water and are calling for continued regular supplies throughout the dry season.

Not Rp 480 T, Purbaya Confirms 2027 MBG Budget at Rp 240 T

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has clarified that the budget for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme in the 2027 Draft State Budget is Rp 240.2 trillion, not Rp 480 trillion as previously reported. The allocation is intended for 60.6 million to 72.1 million beneficiaries and forms part of the total education budget of Rp 820.9 trillion. The Ministry of Finance will also strengthen oversight of the programme through its regional treasury offices.

BRIN warns of ecological amplification and post-disaster outbreak risks

A researcher from Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has warned that natural disasters can trigger ecological amplification, sharply increasing the risk of vector-borne disease outbreaks. Ristiyanto explained that disasters create ideal conditions for disease vectors and reservoirs to multiply, potentially leading to diseases such as dengue, malaria, leptospirosis, and salmonellosis. He urged rapid monitoring of ecological changes as an early warning signal before case numbers rise.

Red and White Parade Urges Young Generation to Preserve Unity and Tolerance

Youth organisations in Jakarta held a Red and White Parade to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, calling on young people to safeguard unity and tolerance amid the nation's diversity. Participants highlighted the importance of combating corruption and drug abuse while strengthening brotherhood across ethnic, religious, and cultural lines. The event featured cultural performances and the unfurling of an 81-metre national flag.

Academics say certainty of electricity buyers strengthens renewable energy investment

An academic from Bandung Institute of Technology argues that guaranteed electricity offtakers are crucial for making renewable energy projects bankable and attractive to investors. She highlights the importance of risk-sharing, investor technical expertise, and blended financing instruments in lowering project costs. The government is targeting 100 GW of solar power capacity as part of its net zero emission goals.

Immigration Investigates Three Israeli Men Expelled from Gym in Bali

Denpasar Immigration is investigating the identity and immigration status of three foreign nationals from Israel who were expelled from a gym in Ubud, Bali. The probe includes examining alleged links to the Israel Defense Forces and claims they entered Indonesia using passports from other countries.

IBMA focuses on integrating gold industry players in first year of establishment

The Indonesia Bullion Market Association (IBMA) has announced its priority for its first year is to integrate all gold industry players into the national bullion ecosystem. The association, which was formally established on Thursday, aims to educate the public and accelerate gold inclusion to support financial system stability and sustainable economic growth. Eleven industry players have already joined IBMA, including PT Pegadaian, Bank Syariah Indonesia, and PT Hartadinata Abadi.

Iqbal and Koster Visit NTT Earthquake Victims, Welcomed by Laka Lena

West Nusa Tenggara Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal and Bali Governor Wayan Koster visited East Nusa Tenggara to show regional solidarity following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake. They were welcomed by NTT Governor Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena at the main disaster response post in West Manggarai. NTB has deployed medical teams, field kitchens, and substantial relief supplies including 34 tonnes of rice to assist affected communities.

At EKONIKLIM Summit, KLH and Coordinating Ministry for Food Highlight Carbon Economic Value and Climate Governance

Officials from Indonesia's Ministry of Environment and the Coordinating Ministry for Food have underscored the importance of carbon economic value (NEK) and robust climate governance in supporting energy security, food security, and green economic growth. Speaking at the closing episode of the EKONIKLIM Podcast Season 2, they emphasised the need for transparent, accountable systems such as the Carbon Unit Registry System (SRUK) to build market confidence. The discussion also highlighted the role of cross-ministerial coordination and the upcoming Climate Change Bill in strengthening Indonesia's industrial competitiveness.

America on Emergency Alert: Covert Attacks from Within Revealed

The United States government has issued a joint cybersecurity advisory warning of active threats against Siemens S7 programmable logic controllers used in critical infrastructure, including water facilities. Hackers are reportedly using artificial intelligence to accelerate attacks, raising concerns about operational disruption and safety incidents. The warning follows a series of cyberattacks on local water systems in several US states.

DPLK Syariah Muamalat enters gold ETF investment instrument

DPLK Syariah Muamalat has become the first investor in the sharia-compliant gold exchange-traded fund XGLD, marking a diversification of its investment strategy. The move is intended to provide participants with a sharia-compliant alternative offering potentially higher returns. The pension fund's assets have reached Rp2 trillion, supported by growth in both corporate and individual participants.

Residents Panic Again as Flores Hit by Aftershocks

More than 3,400 aftershocks have been recorded in Flores and East Nusa Tenggara following the main earthquake, with the death toll rising to 72. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) warns that aftershocks may continue for another two to three weeks, though they are generally weaker than the main quake. Residents have been urged to remain calm but vigilant.

70.5 tonnes of maize seed distributed to 14 sub-districts in Bengkayang

The Bengkayang Regency Food Security and Agriculture Office has distributed 70.5 tonnes of Hebat R212 hybrid maize seed to support planting on approximately 4,700 hectares across 14 sub-districts in West Kalimantan. The seed passed quality testing before distribution, which was escorted by local police as part of support for the government's food security programme. Officials expressed hope that the assistance will boost maize productivity and farmer welfare while contributing to national food self-sufficiency.

House Commission III Disappointed as National Police Criminal Investigation Chief Skips Agrarian Conflict Meeting

House of Representatives Commission III postponed a meeting on agrarian conflicts after National Police Criminal Investigation Chief (Kabareskrim) Commissioner General Syahardiantono failed to attend. Lawmakers expressed frustration over the absence, stressing the importance of the issue for public welfare. The Consortium for Agrarian Reform (KPA) also voiced disappointment, urging the police to adopt a more humane approach in handling land disputes.

Still in a dilemma, Pram to consider Jakarta cycle lanes carefully

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo says he will carefully weigh whether to remove or retain the capital's cycle lanes, acknowledging conflicting public views. Cycling communities want the lanes kept, while many residents argue they are mostly used by motorcycles. A DPRD member has urged the provincial government to preserve the lanes for environmental and public health reasons.

International concerts open opportunities for 27.4 million creative economy workers

Creative Economy Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya has said that upcoming international concerts in Indonesia can create economic opportunities for 27.4 million creative workers across various subsectors. He highlighted the multiplier effect of events such as Andrea Bocelli's concert, which involves performers and backstage professionals while also showcasing local products through a Creative Village concept. The minister noted that international events can expand creative economy activity by creating jobs, enabling knowledge transfer, and connecting local products with wider markets.

South Korea ready to support efforts to open shipping in the Strait of Hormuz

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has stated his country's intention to participate actively in international efforts, including with the United States, to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Seoul is discussing possible practical contributions while remaining within the bounds permitted by law and its basic policy principles. The statement follows reported US requests for allies, including South Korea, to consider sending warships to secure shipping through the strategic waterway.

Developer Day Seeks Talent in Technology Sector

Pandi, FTII, and ASPILUKI are collaborating to hold developerday.id 2026, the second edition of an event aimed at connecting Indonesian tech talent with communities, industry players, and potential investors. The initiative seeks to strengthen the national digital innovation ecosystem and prepare local developers for the APICTA Award 2026. Organisers highlight the growing app sector, with investment reaching around Rp54.18 trillion in 2025 and an estimated two million developers in Indonesia.

MedcoEnergi sends logistical aid to residents affected by NTT earthquake

PT Medco Energi Internasional Tbk has delivered humanitarian assistance, including logistical supplies and basic necessities, to communities affected by the 7.7-magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The aid was handed over to the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) and will be distributed according to needs on the ground, prioritising vulnerable groups. Local officials expressed appreciation for the company's contribution to the disaster response effort.

Jakarta LRT to Extend from Manggarai to Dukuh Atas, Construction to Begin in 2027

The Jakarta LRT network is set to expand further with the Manggarai-Dukuh Atas corridor, with construction planned to commence in 2027. The 2.4 km extension, part of Phase 1C, will connect the LRT to the Dukuh Atas transport hub, integrating it with MRT, airport rail, KRL Commuter Line, LRT Jabodebek, and TransJakarta services. The project is estimated to require Rp2.9 trillion in investment and is projected to serve an average of 20,554 passengers daily.

Vice President visits evacuees, inspects damaged port in Sikka

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming visited earthquake-affected areas in Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, to inspect damage to Laurentius Say Port and meet with displaced residents. He distributed toys and books to children at an evacuation shelter and handed over baby supplies to a mother. The visit aimed to ensure government attention to education and post-disaster recovery remains a priority.

MAKI: Pretrial Motion Actually Proves 74 Kilograms of Gold Belong to Febrie

The Indonesian Anti-Corruption Society (MAKI) argues that a pretrial motion filed by former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah inadvertently confirms his ownership of 74 kilograms of gold and nearly Rp500 billion in cash seized by police. MAKI coordinator Boyamin Saiman said the request for the return of the assets strengthens the case for investigators. He added that the motion could provide further evidence in the ongoing corruption and money laundering investigation.

Baznas distributes 48,000 litres of water to drought-hit Kulon Progo residents

The National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) and Kulon Progo Regency Baznas have distributed 48,000 litres of clean water to residents affected by drought in Kulon Progo, Yogyakarta. The aid targets villages where water sources have become increasingly difficult to access. Baznas has also distributed 1.5 million litres of clean water across 72 villages in six provinces and built bore wells at 37 locations.

Pertamina ensures fuel supply for power plants in Flores after earthquake

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has confirmed that fuel supplies for power plants in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, remain secure following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake on 15 August 2026. The company is currently serving power plant needs from the Reo Fuel Terminal while preparing alternative routes, including via the Tanjung Wangi Integrated Terminal, in case aftershocks disrupt distribution. Pertamina is also coordinating fuel support for the military and police to aid disaster response and recovery efforts.

Indictment Reveals Heru Went Bankrupt from Crypto Before Robbing and Killing Politician's Child

The indictment of Heru Anggara reveals that he lost his entire savings of Rp 400 million in cryptocurrency trading before resorting to robbery and murder. After his crypto investments collapsed and his wife left him, Heru targeted the home of PKS politician Maman Suherman in Cilegon, where he killed Maman's nine-year-old son during a botched robbery attempt. The case highlights the severe personal consequences of speculative crypto trading and has drawn significant public attention.

Proposed Sale of Former KRI Ki Hajar Dewantara Draws Response from House Deputy Chair

Deputy Chair of House Commission I Dave Laksono has called for further deliberation on the government's proposal to sell the former KRI Ki Hajar Dewantara. He stressed the need to assess the vessel's asset value, operational necessity, and historical significance to the Indonesian Navy. Any transfer, he said, must be conducted in an orderly, transparent, and accountable manner.

KPK Summons Three Sukoharjo Public Works Officials in Bupati Etik Extortion Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned nine witnesses, including three officials from Sukoharjo's Public Works and Spatial Planning Agency, as part of its investigation into an alleged extortion scheme involving Bupati Etik Suryani. The case centres on claims that Etik demanded around 40 per cent of incentive payments received by staff at the regional financial and asset management agency. Investigators have also searched the bupati's office and residence, where 2.5 kg of gold suspected to be proceeds of corruption was reportedly stored.

Pidie Launches SIGAP e-SPPT to Ease PBB-P2 Payments

The Pidie Regency Government in Aceh has introduced the SIGAP Pidie application with an e-SPPT feature to digitise access to rural and urban land and building tax (PBB-P2) information. The initiative aims to improve transparency, reduce administrative barriers, and encourage timely tax payments before the 30 September 2026 deadline. Officials emphasise that tax revenue directly supports regional development and public services.

Blocks F and G Mark Initial Phase of Housing Development at Manggarai TOD

State railway operator PT Kereta Api Indonesia is preparing Blocks F and G as the first stage of the Transit-Oriented Development at Manggarai station in South Jakarta. The development will include 1,232 residential units and retail space across approximately 2.19 hectares, with a groundbreaking scheduled for 21 August 2026. KAI is also coordinating the master plan and urban design guidelines to ensure the project aligns with transport connectivity and community needs.

BRI maintains credit growth momentum while prioritising prudence

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk is sustaining credit growth while reinforcing prudent banking and disciplined risk management. The state-owned lender reported improved asset quality, with its non-performing loan ratio easing to 3.01 per cent in March 2026 from 3.07 per cent in December 2025. BRI emphasised selective expansion focused on productive sectors, particularly MSMEs, supported by stronger underwriting, monitoring, and early warning systems.

Partnership Drives Tobacco Farmers' Welfare in Rembang

The Ministry of Agriculture and tobacco industry stakeholders have conducted a field visit to Rembang, Central Java, to review a partnership programme aimed at boosting productivity and competitiveness. The initiative, running since 2009, provides technical assistance and guaranteed market absorption for over 10,000 farmers across Central Java. Farmers report improved incomes and reduced rural crime, while the ministry highlights plans for international exchange opportunities for young farmers.

PKT Distributes Urgent Aid to Residents Affected by NTT Earthquake

PT Pupuk Kalimantan Timur (Pupuk Kaltim) has distributed Rp100 million in aid to communities affected by the earthquake in Nusa Tenggara Timur, focusing on food, sanitation, nutrition, and health needs. The assistance, delivered through the PKT Proaktif programme, targets residents in Manggarai Regency during the emergency response and recovery period. The company coordinated with the Manggarai Regency Government to ensure the aid reached those most in need.

Putin Furious! Russian Ballistic Missiles Explode in Kyiv, People Trapped

Russian ballistic missiles struck Kyiv in the early hours of Thursday, killing at least three people and injuring twenty others. The attack damaged residential buildings, warehouses, and a children's hospital, cutting electricity in parts of the Ukrainian capital. Diplomatic efforts involving the United States and Europe have so far failed to secure a lasting ceasefire.

Israel clashes with Turkey, will Saudi Arabia and Pakistan defend Ankara?

Tensions between Turkey and Israel have escalated after Israeli strikes on a Syrian base in Idlib, which Tel Aviv framed as a warning against Turkish military build-up in Syria. The attack follows the signing of the Makkah Pact, a mutual defence agreement between Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. Ankara-based sources suggest Israel is testing both the new security architecture and the Trump administration's stance, while neither Saudi Arabia nor Pakistan has yet responded publicly.

Israeli curfew forces Palestinians in West Bank to remain at home

An Israeli military operation in the southern West Bank has imposed a curfew on around 40,000 Palestinians, restricting their access to daily necessities and essential services. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported that snipers were positioned on rooftops and roads were blocked with earth mounds. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern over reports of new illegal Israeli settlement outposts in the occupied West Bank.

Beijing commends Malaysia PM Anwar’s ‘One China’ stance following Taiwan’s rebuke

Beijing has praised Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for reaffirming his support of the 'One China' principle and defending China's right to use force if peaceful reunification with Taiwan fails. Anwar's remarks, made during an Al Jazeera interview, drew swift condemnation from Taiwan's foreign ministry, which warned the stance could undermine Taiwanese business confidence in Malaysia. The episode highlights Malaysia's delicate diplomatic balancing act between its close economic ties with China and its broader regional relationships.

People's Party for Independence Day becomes momentum to strengthen South Jakarta MSME economy

The People's Party celebrating Indonesia's 81st Independence Day is being used to strengthen the economy of Jakpreneur-assisted micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in South Jakarta. Selected MSMEs receive operational capital support through a staged payment mechanism, with food and beverages provided free to visitors. The initiative aims to develop business capacity rather than generate direct turnover for participants.

KKI 2026: 'Beudaya Meusare Sare' Spirit Drives MSME Revival and Competitiveness

Bank Indonesia's annual Karya Kreatif Indonesia (KKI) 2026 exhibition opened in Jakarta with the theme of strengthening synergy to help MSMEs recover, become resilient, and competitive. The event features over 550 physical exhibitors and more than 1,300 online participants, with a particular focus on supporting MSMEs in Sumatra and East Nusa Tenggara affected by natural disasters. The central bank is collaborating with 27 ministries and agencies and 34 strategic partners to enhance access to financing, digitalisation, and market expansion.

Kemdiktisaintek and Pertamina develop bioethanol from oil palm empty fruit bunches

Indonesia's Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology and state energy firm Pertamina are exploring second-generation bioethanol production using oil palm empty fruit bunches. The initiative, which includes assessing technology from India's Praj Industries, aims to add value to palm oil industry by-products without opening new land. The project aligns with national priorities on energy security, downstreaming, and domestic resource optimisation.

Electric Motorcycle Incentive Reduced to Rp3 Million per Unit, Purbaya Speaks Out

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that the government's electric motorcycle purchase incentive has been set at Rp3 million per unit, with a total budget of Rp3 trillion for a target of one million units. He acknowledged that domestic production capacity remains a major constraint, with some manufacturers only able to produce around 20,000 units annually. Purbaya estimates that actual uptake by the end of the year will likely reach only around 100,000 units.

IHSG Approaches 6,500! Foreign Investors Scramble for These 10 Shares, Pouring in Rp648 Billion

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) surged more than 1% in the first trading session on Thursday, driven by commodity and mining stocks, closing near the psychological level of 6,500. Foreign investors recorded a net buy of Rp648.22 billion across all markets, with PT Amman Mineral Internasional Tbk leading the purchases. The rally was supported by a weaker US dollar, falling US Treasury yields, and Bank Indonesia's decision to hold the BI-Rate at 5.75%.

Understanding Economic Deciles and Their Link to DTSEN and Social Assistance

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has stated that economic decile categorisation is based on economic surveys and the National Single Socio-Economic Data (DTSEN). The government is currently conducting an economic survey, with social assistance policies now using a single data source from DTSEN. The data is dynamic, and decile positions can change as socio-economic conditions evolve.

Indonesia, Germany partner on MMS for pregnant women to cut stunting

Indonesia and Germany are collaborating to establish local production of multiple micronutrient supplements (MMS) for pregnant women as part of efforts to reduce stunting. The facility in Cimanggis, operated by PT Bayer Indonesia with a Rp99 billion investment, can produce up to 1.2 billion tablets annually, enough to meet domestic demand and supply exports to 42 countries. The initiative is supported by the German government and includes environmentally friendly operations such as rooftop solar panels.

Radea Respati Paramudhita Supports Cross-Sector Collaboration for Inmate Empowerment

Bandung City Council Commission I Chair Radea Respati Paramudhita has called for sustained cross-sector collaboration between universities, local government, correctional institutions, businesses and communities to empower inmates. Speaking at a community service event at the Bandung Class IIA Women's Prison, she stressed that training programmes must be followed by product development, promotion and market access. She highlighted the dual benefits of the ecopreneurship approach in reducing household plastic waste while creating economic opportunities for inmates.

Pramono on Cycle Lanes: I Must Be Careful in Making a Decision

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has said he will be cautious in deciding the fate of the city's cycle lanes, following calls for their closure because they are reportedly used more by motorcyclists. He noted that cycling communities such as Bike to Work want the lanes retained, while some members of the public argue they are misused by motorbike riders. Pramono added that as a keen cyclist himself, he wants to avoid the impression that the decision is driven by his personal hobby.

M6.0 Aftershock in Ruteng, East Nusa Tenggara Today, One Resident Dies

A magnitude 6.0 aftershock struck Manggarai Regency on Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara, on Thursday, causing one fatality. The victim, a 56-year-old man with a history of heart disease, died from a heart attack triggered by panic rather than structural collapse. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm as aftershocks continue following the magnitude 7.7 main earthquake on 15 August.

With Rain Potential, Pramono Orders Jakarta Weather Modification for Tomorrow

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has instructed the weather modification operation (OMC) to be carried out again on Friday, citing the presence of potential cloud formations. He acknowledged that cloud seeding does not guarantee rainfall but stressed that such efforts remain necessary to optimise rain potential. Pramono also expressed hope that the operation would increase rainfall intensity without causing flooding.

DIY Regional Government Questions BPS on Changed Decile Data: Many Protests

The Yogyakarta Special Region (DIY) administration has questioned the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) over changes in the decile classification of citizens' welfare levels, which has triggered public protests. Officials argue that the revised data, based on the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN), does not reflect actual conditions on the ground. Residents whose decile status has changed can request corrections through local operators or the Cek Bansos application.

Agriculture Minister provides farm machinery assistance to Untad Palu graduates and students

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has distributed agricultural machinery and livestock to graduates and students of Tadulako University in Palu, Central Sulawesi, to encourage youth participation in farming. The assistance includes hand tractors, boreholes, combine harvesters, four-wheel tractors and goats, alongside free coconut and cocoa seedlings. The government has allocated Rp9.5 trillion for developing seven strategic commodities across 870,000 hectares of smallholder plantations between 2025 and 2027.

KP2MI strengthens assistance for verification of ship crew documents to China

Deputy Minister for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers Christina Aryani has called for stronger assistance in verifying and endorsing placement documents for Indonesian migrant workers, particularly ship crew bound for China. The move follows an online meeting with the Indonesian Consul General in Shanghai to address administrative obstacles. The ministry aims to establish clear procedures to ensure orderly, safe and compliant placement of workers.

Novo Nordisk and AWS accelerate drug discovery with AI

Danish pharmaceutical firm Novo Nordisk has entered a strategic partnership with Amazon Web Services to speed up drug discovery and modernise operations using artificial intelligence and cloud computing. The collaboration will leverage AWS AI services to shorten the journey from therapeutic target identification to first human dosing. The agreement also extends to other Amazon units, including Amazon Pharmacy and Amazon One Medical, to support new ways of delivering therapies to patients.

As Saguling Reservoir Dries Up, It Turns Into Farmland

Prolonged drought caused by El Niño has drastically reduced water levels at Saguling Reservoir in West Bandung Regency, exposing dry land that local residents are now using for seasonal farming. Farmers are planting quick-harvest crops such as chillies, aubergines, cucumbers and pak choi, with some reporting harvests worth up to Rp30 million. The phenomenon mirrors conditions seen in 2023, when the reservoir also receded for several months.

Iran Warns Gulf States Against Assisting US Military

Iran's armed forces have warned Gulf states that any assistance to the US military will be treated as joint involvement with American forces. The warning follows the UAE's suspension of economic ties with Tehran after accusing Iran of firing ballistic missiles at its vessels. Tensions remain high following the outbreak of war in late February, with Gulf states reportedly striking targets inside Iran in retaliation.

Airlangga Reveals German Investment Potential in Indonesia, Here Are the Sectors

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has highlighted investment opportunities for German companies in Indonesia, particularly in renewable energy, semiconductors, and vocational education. Germany remains a key partner, with cumulative investment of US$1.23 billion from 2021 to 2026 and involvement in the Just Energy Transition Partnership. Both sides also discussed finalising the Indonesia-EU CEPA trade agreement.

Tailless tukong chicken from West Kalimantan now registered as Indonesian Communal Intellectual Property

The West Kalimantan provincial government has registered the tukong chicken as Communal Intellectual Property (KIK) in the genetic resources category. The registration, issued by the Ministry of Law, aims to protect, preserve and develop this distinctive local poultry breed. The tukong chicken is notable for lacking a tailbone and is found across several West Kalimantan districts.

Indonesian Foreign Ministry: Indonesia-China CSD dialogue to focus on economic partnership

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has confirmed that the inaugural Comprehensive Strategic Dialogue (CSD) with China on Friday will prioritise economic partnership, although detailed topics are still being finalised. The dialogue follows the elevation of bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership and stems from agreements reached during Foreign Minister Sugiono's visit to Beijing in April 2025. A '2+2' meeting of foreign and defence ministers is also scheduled for the same day.

US National Debt Tops US$40 Trillion for First Time, Here's the Impact on the Economy

The United States' national debt has surpassed US$40 trillion for the first time, driven by persistent budget deficits and rising interest payments. Fiscal watchdogs warn the milestone signals a deteriorating fiscal outlook that could fuel inflation and constrain future spending. The White House says the Trump administration is focused on cutting waste and accelerating growth to improve the debt-to-GDP ratio.

Hoax! Prabowo did not order TNI-Polri to arrest all Acehnese over Garuda symbol incident

A Facebook post claiming President Prabowo Subianto ordered the military and police to arrest all Acehnese people for stepping on the Garuda symbol has been debunked as false. Officials including the National Police Chief and Presidential Chief of Staff confirmed the situation in Aceh is under control following disturbances on 15 August 2026. They stated the unrest was caused by only a small number of individuals and does not reflect the wider Acehnese community.

Purbaya Allocates Rp31 Trillion to Convert Part-Time PPPK to Full-Time

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has allocated Rp31 trillion in the 2027 state budget to convert part-time government contract workers (PPPK) to full-time status. The conversion will be phased over three years, covering approximately 541,000 part-time PPPK teachers. The government maintains the fiscal deficit will remain at 2.4% of GDP despite the additional spending.

Gibran Inspects School Damaged by NTT Earthquake, Here's Its Current Condition

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming visited SD Inpres LXXVI Wairklau in Sikka Regency, which was damaged by the recent earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The school is now serving as a temporary evacuation post, and Gibran checked on the condition of displaced residents and their children. He emphasised that post-disaster recovery must ensure children can return to learning safely and comfortably.

Kebumen Regency Prepares 3,000 Free Nasi Tempelang Portions for 397th Anniversary

The Kebumen Regency Government is marking its 397th anniversary by serving 3,000 free portions of nasi tempelang to the public. The celebration includes cultural and religious activities, culminating in a communal meal intended to symbolise the closeness between the government and its citizens. The anniversary date was changed to 21 August following Regional Regulation No. 3 of 2018.

Kinerja Investasi Bagus, DPLK Syariah Muamalat Jadi Investor Pertama ETF Emas

DPLK Syariah Muamalat reported strong investment performance with its highest-yield package returning 16.77% annually as of July 2026, and became the first investor in Indonesia's sharia-compliant gold ETF (XGLD) listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. The pension fund's corporate clients grew to 971 companies and individual participants surpassed 125,000, pushing assets under management to Rp2 trillion, up 12% year-on-year. The move into gold ETFs reflects a diversification strategy aimed at offering participants higher potential returns while adhering to Islamic principles.

Electronic KTP recording reaches 208.5 million citizens by first half of 2026

Indonesia's electronic identity card (e-KTP) biometric recording has reached 208.5 million citizens, or 97.28 per cent of the 214.3 million required to hold one, according to Ministry of Home Affairs data for the first half of 2026. The figure represents an increase of over 2 million compared with the second half of 2025. The government attributes the progress to expanded mobile services and direct recording in areas with limited access to civil administration facilities.

PMHU Number 2 of 2026: Between Pilgrim Protection and Business Fairness

The article examines Minister of Hajj and Umrah Regulation (PMHU) Number 2 of 2026 through the lens of legal philosophy, questioning whether its licensing requirements create a fair playing field for businesses. It argues that while the state has legitimacy to regulate for pilgrim protection, such authority must be exercised proportionally and without creating unjustified market barriers. The authors call for a balance between legal certainty, distributive justice, and the principle of fair equality of opportunity.

Hoax! Bahlil did not say many people asked the government to raise fuel prices

A Facebook post falsely claimed that Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said many citizens had asked the government to raise fuel prices. Fact-checking by ANTARA found no such statement, and the photo used was taken from an unrelated article about the formation of a downstreaming task force. The government has maintained subsidised fuel and LPG prices despite global oil price fluctuations.