Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 20 August 2026

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Palangka Raya provides free health checks for forest and land fire task force members

The Palangka Raya city government has provided free health checks for members of its forest and land fire task force, finding several with mild coughs due to smoke and dust exposure. The initiative aims to maintain personnel readiness amid high fire activity, with 298 incidents recorded between 1 June and 19 August 2026. Officials emphasised the importance of regular health monitoring and protective equipment for firefighters.

Gibran arrives in NTT to review post-earthquake handling

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka visited Maumere, Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, to inspect post-earthquake response efforts alongside Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno. The visit comes as the National Disaster Mitigation Agency reported 71 fatalities and nearly 60,000 displaced people following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake. The government has allocated approximately Rp44 billion for disaster management in the province.

Rumour Haji Isam to Control 62.2% of BYAN Shares, JARR Finally Speaks Out

PT Jhonlin Agro Raya Tbk (JARR), owned by conglomerate Haji Isam, has denied rumours that Jhonlin Group plans to acquire a majority stake in PT Bayan Resources Tbk (BYAN). The company stated it has no such plan and has not received any official confirmation from its controlling shareholder or ultimate beneficial owner. BYAN management has also said it is unaware of any takeover plan.

Health minister says bone fractures common among NTT earthquake survivors

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has reported that many survivors of the 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Nusa Tenggara Timur are suffering from bone fractures. Two field hospitals are now operational and performing surgery, with around 40 families already treated. The Ministry of Health is also deploying emergency medical teams to hard-to-reach health centres in the affected areas.

IBMA officially formed, ready to accelerate deepening of national bullion market

The Indonesia Bullion Market Association (IBMA) has been officially established to accelerate the development of a transparent and globally competitive national bullion trading and services ecosystem. The association brings together 11 companies across the gold value chain, from mining and refining to trading and financing. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto said the formation marks a new phase in developing Indonesia's bullion industry, focusing on creating a more efficient, liquid, transparent and integrated market.

Trump Threatens Severe Economic Sanctions Against Countries Aiding Iran

US President Donald Trump has announced what he describes as the most devastating economic operation ever directed at a single country, threatening severe sanctions against any nation, company, or financial institution that provides assistance to Iran. The announcement comes as the regional conflict enters its sixth month and tensions remain high in the Strait of Hormuz. Trump also made the controversial suggestion that the strategic waterway could become a new US territory.

The Constitutional Court, the constitution, and social justice

The article examines the historical and constitutional foundations of Indonesia's Constitutional Court (Mahkamah Konstitusi), tracing its origins to the 1999–2002 constitutional amendments. It highlights early debates between Mohammad Yamin and Soepomo on judicial review, and frames the Court as a key institution for upholding constitutionalism and social justice.

El Niño Wreaks Havoc, Raja Ampat - Maratua 'Scorched': Under Threat of Destruction

The 2026 El Niño is posing a serious threat to Indonesia's marine ecosystems, with rising sea temperatures triggering coral bleaching and death. A recent incident in Maratua, East Kalimantan, where a liveaboard vessel ran aground on a reef, has compounded the damage, leaving a recovery process that could take over a decade. The government is exploring biodiversity finance mechanisms, including green sukuk and debt-for-nature swaps, to support conservation and restoration efforts.

Indonesian Air Force C-130H Hercules Modernised, Extending Operational Life by Up to 20 Years

PT GMF AeroAsia has completed the modernisation of an Indonesian Air Force C-130 Hercules, extending its operational life by 15 to 20 years. The project marks the first major modification of a C-130 outside Lockheed Martin's facilities in the United States. The work forms part of a defence offset scheme and was carried out entirely by local personnel.

Lawyer Appreciates Police, Hopes Sheikh Ahmad Al Misry Is Repatriated Soon

The legal representative of the victims of alleged sexual abuse by Sheikh Ahmad Al Misry has welcomed the National Police's decision to name him a suspect and issue a red notice. He urged Egyptian authorities to cooperate in repatriating the suspect to Indonesia. Police have cited dual citizenship and the absence of an extradition treaty as key obstacles.

BPKH Reveals Hajj Fund Simulation if 2027 BPIH Is Approved: There Is a Minus Difference of Rp6.87 Trillion

The Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) has warned that approving the proposed 2027 Hajj Travel Cost (BPIH) would create a negative balance of Rp6.87 trillion in the hajj fund. The agency stressed that any BPIH decision must balance affordability for departing pilgrims, fairness for those still on the waiting list, sharia compliance, and long-term financial sustainability. As of July 2026, the hajj fund balance stood at Rp182.34 trillion, with value benefits of Rp7.01 trillion recorded for the year.

Ruteng Hospital Health Workers Struggle to Care for Patients Amid Extreme Cold After Earthquake

Medical staff at Ruteng Regional General Hospital in Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, are working under severe strain following the 7.7 magnitude earthquake, with services moved to emergency tents in extreme cold. Several doctors and nurses have fallen ill themselves, some receiving IV drips while continuing to work due to staff shortages. Additional medical personnel have been deployed from Surabaya, Kupang, and other regions to support the emergency response.

Pertamina Partners with Attorney General's Intelligence Division to Closely Monitor Fuel and LPG Imports

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has signed an integrity pact with the Attorney General's Office intelligence division to oversee its crude oil, fuel, and LPG import procurement for 2026-2027. The partnership aims to enhance transparency and mitigate legal risks amid global geopolitical uncertainty. The Attorney General's Office views the energy procurement as part of a national priority project under President Prabowo Subianto's Asta Cita programme.

Sahroni Urges Police to Eradicate Counterfeit Stamp Duty: Not Only State Losses but Also Public Trust

House of Representatives Commission III Deputy Chairman Ahmad Sahroni has praised a joint police and Finance Ministry operation that dismantled a cross-province syndicate producing and distributing counterfeit stamp duty. He stressed that the circulation of fake stamps not only harms state revenue but also undermines public confidence in official documents. Sahroni urged law enforcement to pursue the entire criminal network, from production to distribution.

UBSI and UNDIP Open Academic Collaboration Opportunities

Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) and Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to foster academic collaboration. The partnership aims to develop joint research, scientific publications, seminars, and community service programmes. Both institutions expect the agreement to lead to concrete activities benefiting lecturers, students, and society.

Identity of Victim Killed by KRL Train in Tebet: 80-Year-Old Grandfather

An 80-year-old man named Ishak has been identified as the victim of a fatal train incident in Tebet, South Jakarta. The incident disrupted morning commuter services on the Bogor-Jakarta Kota line. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death.

Following New Criminal Procedure Code, Supreme Court Issues Regulation Prohibiting Cassation of Acquittals

The Indonesian Supreme Court has issued Circular Letter (SEMA) No. 4 of 2026, which firmly prohibits appeals and cassation against acquittals in criminal cases. The regulation aligns with the new Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP) under Law No. 20 of 2025 and revokes the previous SEMA No. 8 of 2011. It also mandates the immediate release of defendants who receive a discharge verdict, with detention authority transferring to the High Court if prosecutors appeal.

BBPPMD Jakarta urges villages to become frontline in disaster management

The Jakarta-based Centre for Village Community Training and Empowerment (BBPPMD) has called for villages to take a leading role in disaster risk identification and preparedness. The agency argues that local communities possess the best understanding of their territory, risks, and resources, making community-based disaster management essential. It also stressed that disaster response cannot rely solely on government institutions.

Toll Road Preservation Works Continue, Jasa Marga Commits to Ensuring 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, scraping and filling, and pavement reconstruction. The company says the programme supports national connectivity and aligns with the government's infrastructure development agenda.

Airlangga says location of PFII in Bali still under evaluation

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has stated that the location of the International Financial Centre of Indonesia (PFII) in Bali is still under evaluation. He declined to specify the exact site, saying only that it would be on land owned by Danantara. The government previously announced that Jakarta would serve as the initial location, with Bali as the next development site.

Garuda Indonesia Prepares Ticket Promotions, Umrah Packages from Rp13.7 Million

Garuda Indonesia is combining its Garuda Indonesia Travel Festival and Umrah Travel Fair for the first time, offering domestic and international flight deals alongside umrah packages starting at Rp13.7 million. The state-owned airline is partnering with Bank Mandiri and Bank Syariah Indonesia to provide cashback, instalment plans, and other incentives, with travel periods extending to August 2027.

Employee Sacked Over Worship Leave, Company Fined Rp 2.6 Billion

Apple has agreed to pay US$150,000 (approximately Rp 2.6 billion) to settle a religious discrimination lawsuit brought by a former employee who was dismissed after repeatedly requesting Sabbath leave. The settlement includes back pay and non-material damages, though Apple made no formal admission of wrongdoing. The company has also committed to providing religious discrimination prevention training for all employees.

Ministry of Manpower Reopens MagangHub Internship Vacancies with UMP-Equivalent Salary, Here Are the Dates

Indonesia's Ministry of Manpower will open registration for the second batch of the 2026 National Internship Programme (MagangHub) from 3 to 8 September 2026. Minister Yassierli emphasised that participants should prepare early to select placements matching their interests and competencies. The programme offers internship opportunities with salaries equivalent to the provincial minimum wage (UMP).

Robots poised for 'ChatGPT moment', says Unitree CEO

Unitree CEO Wang Xingxing believes the humanoid robot industry is approaching a 'ChatGPT moment' for embodied intelligence, where robots can handle most tasks in unfamiliar environments through simple voice or text commands. Speaking at the World Robot Conference in Beijing, he cautioned that a major software breakthrough could still be two to ten years away, even as China dominates global humanoid shipments with 97 per cent of the market. The sector is also becoming a new front in US-China technology rivalry, with Washington recently banning imports of foreign-made humanoid and quadruped robots on national security grounds.

Pertamina awaits Reo jetty structural strength test results following earthquake

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga is waiting for structural strength test results on the Reo fuel terminal jetty in Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, before resuming operations following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake. The company has redirected fuel supplies from other terminals in Flores and Bima to ensure continued distribution. Sixteen tanker trucks have already arrived in Labuan Bajo to support fuel delivery.

DPR Budget Committee Demands Debt Profile, Purbaya Promises Completion in 10 Days

The Indonesian House of Representatives' Budget Committee (Banggar) has pressed Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa to submit the government's debt profile report, which has been outstanding for a month. Purbaya initially proposed a deadline of late November but, following pushback from lawmakers, committed to delivering the report within ten days.

Transmigration Ministry and Villages Ministry Unite for the People and NTT Earthquake Victims

Indonesia's Ministry of Transmigration and Ministry of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions have reaffirmed their commitment to collaboration despite their institutional separation. Minister M. Iftitah Sulaiman Suryanagara announced an initial staff donation of around Rp100 million for earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara and highlighted the creation of 1,567 new villages through transmigration programmes. The two ministries aim to ensure sustainable development and tangible benefits for communities.

Bengkulu seeks two more tsunami warning sirens from BNPB

The Bengkulu city government has requested two additional tsunami warning sirens from the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) to strengthen coastal disaster preparedness. The sirens are planned for Lempuing and Teluk Sepang villages, both identified as tsunami-prone areas. Local officials also emphasised the importance of disaster education and drills, with plans to expand simulations in schools and communities by 2027.

Cilacap Dried Taro Leaf Shreds Ready to Enter International Market

PT Setia Agro Internasional in Cilacap, Central Java, is preparing to export 800 kilograms of dried shredded taro leaves to Jordan, marking the product's first entry into the international market. The commodity is used as a food ingredient and as a tobacco substitute for herbal cigarettes. Bea Cukai Cilacap has provided export assistance and mentoring to support the company's international expansion.

Air Force chief shares story of intercepting foreign aircraft with Sukhoi

Air Chief Marshal Mohamad Tonny Harjono recounted an incident from 15 years ago when Sukhoi jets under his command intercepted and forced down a foreign aircraft crossing Indonesian airspace without proper clearance. The episode exposed a legal vacuum, prompting him and other officers to push for the creation of Indonesia's Airspace Management Law. He credited Deputy Law Minister Eddy Hiariej and the working group for helping realise the legislation.

Not 74 kg of Gold: Febrie Adriansyah Only Requests Return of Personal Items and Family Photos

Febri Diansyah, lawyer for former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah, has clarified that his client is not seeking the return of 74 kilograms of gold or foreign currency seized by police. The pre-trial motion at the South Jakarta District Court only requests the return of personal belongings such as family photos seized from a family home in Sentul, Bogor. The legal team is also challenging the legality of the search at that property.

Two Youths Arrested in Lubang Buaya for Carrying Sickles Ahead of Planned Brawl

Police in East Jakarta have arrested two young men found carrying sickles during an early morning patrol in Lubang Buaya, Cipayung. The suspects were handed over to Cipayung Police for further investigation, while officers also seized three motorcycles and three mobile phones. Senior police officials have urged parents to monitor their children's activities at night to prevent street brawls and knife crime.

National Gold Bank Association Formed with BSI, Pegadaian, and Amman

The Indonesia Bullion Market Association (IBMA) has been officially established as a coordinating body for the national gold ecosystem, bringing together 11 founding companies from mining, financial services, refining, retail, and supporting sectors. The association aims to serve as a strategic partner to the government and a bridge between industry players and regulators. Its supervisory board includes top executives from BSI, Pegadaian, Amman Mineral Internasional, UBS Gold, and Laku Emas.

Indonesia seeks global markets for creative products via ION

Indonesia's Creative Economy Ministry is partnering with the Indonesia Open Network to expand global market access for local creative products and strengthen the sector's competitiveness. The collaboration will focus on digital marketing, cross-border trade, financing, intellectual property protection, and AI integration. The creative economy attracted 183 trillion rupiah in investment and generated $31.94 billion in exports in 2025, employing 27.4 million people.

Indonesia Has Only Utilised 11% of Its 24 GW Geothermal Potential

Indonesia has tapped just 11% of its 24 gigawatt geothermal reserves, according to Pertamina Geothermal Energy CEO Ahmad Yani. He called on investors, stakeholders and the government to work together to create a feasible and bankable geothermal business climate. PGE aims to reach 1 GW of capacity by 2028 and become the world's largest geothermal company by 2034 with 1.8 GW.

Aftershocks in NTT Possible for Up to 3 Weeks, Residents Urged Not to Panic

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has warned that aftershocks may continue in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) for up to three weeks following the 7.7 magnitude earthquake. Residents have been advised to remain calm but vigilant, avoid damaged buildings, and rely only on official information. The provincial government has declared a 14-day emergency response period, with the death toll now at 71 and nearly 60,000 people displaced.

Fadli says music performances can strengthen Indonesian culture globally

Minister of Culture Fadli Zon has highlighted the strategic role of music performances in promoting Indonesian arts and culture internationally. Speaking at the 'Strings of Equator' concert tour in Europe, he said such initiatives align with the ministry's mission to advance national culture. The tour, featuring Tantowi Yahya and Thomshell Band, aims to introduce Indonesia's diverse musical heritage to European audiences.

Two protected elephants relocated to E Kalimantan zoo

Two protected elephants, Deo and Sinta, have been relocated to a newly built conservation facility at Tabang Zoo in East Kalimantan after their previous temporary home exceeded capacity. The move, overseen by the East Kalimantan Natural Resources Conservation Agency, aims to improve animal welfare and breeding opportunities. Government authorities will continue to monitor the elephants through mandatory annual health and welfare reports.

Viral Mosque Carpet Used as Stage Mat at Independence Day Ceremony, Sub-district Head in Southeast Sulawesi Clarifies

The Mawasangka sub-district government in Central Buton Regency, Southeast Sulawesi, has apologised after a carpet perceived to be from a mosque was used as a stage covering during the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony. Sub-district head Imaduddin clarified that the carpet was old village property no longer used in the mosque. He nonetheless expressed regret over the incident.

North Maluku fisherman survives 26 days adrift in Pacific Ocean after boat breaks down

Esau Sidemo, a 57-year-old fisherman from Ternate, North Maluku, was rescued by a French LNG carrier after drifting for 26 days in the Pacific Ocean when his boat suffered engine failure. He survived by catching fish and birds and drinking rainwater, and was found approximately 800 nautical miles from his home island. The Indonesian Consulate General in Shanghai coordinated with Chinese immigration authorities to repatriate him.

KPK Seizes Rp150 Billion in Assets in Silmy Karim Foreigner Residence Permit Extortion Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized assets worth approximately Rp150 billion in its investigation into alleged extortion and gratuities related to foreign nationals' residence permits from 2022 to 2026. The case implicates former Deputy Minister of Immigration Silmy Karim and seven other immigration officials. Investigators are also examining assets registered under other parties' names for potential money laundering offences.

Governor Pramono Inaugurates 7 Senior Officials of Jakarta Provincial Government

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has inaugurated seven senior officials as part of a bureaucratic restructuring aimed at improving governance and public services. The appointments were made through a talent management process with technical considerations and recommendations from the National Civil Service Agency. The Governor urged the new officials to accelerate priority programmes and respond swiftly to economic and geopolitical challenges facing the capital.

Bogor City Officials Raid Cafes and Stalls, Seize 277 Bottles of Illegal Alcohol

Joint enforcement officers in Bogor City raided seven cafes and roadside stalls suspected of selling alcohol without proper permits, confiscating 277 bottles across categories A, B, and C. The operation was conducted to enforce local regulations and follow up on public complaints about illegal alcohol distribution. Seized items are to be destroyed, according to the municipal civil service police chief.

Palangka Raya city government proposes boreholes to tackle land fires

The Palangka Raya city administration has proposed adding boreholes and water storage facilities to strengthen the handling of forest and land fires, particularly in peatland areas with limited water access. Mayor Fairid Naparin said the lack of water sources remains a key obstacle in firefighting efforts. The proposals include boreholes, embung reservoirs, portable embung units, and adequate piping systems to support peatland wetting and fire prevention.

Home Affairs Ministry: Integrated data key to rapid emergency response

The Home Affairs Ministry has emphasised that integrated disaster data management and solid command post operations are crucial for accelerating emergency response following the earthquake in Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. Director General Safrizal Zakaria Ali made the remarks after accompanying Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian on an inspection visit to the affected area. The visit confirmed that emergency measures are running optimally and public services remain operational.

1,800 Tonnes of Indonesian Gold 'Under the Mattress' Exceeds Bank Indonesia and India's Reserves

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has revealed that Indonesian households hold an estimated 1,800 tonnes of gold outside the formal financial system, valued at US$252 billion. If brought into the system, this would place Indonesia among the world's largest gold holders, behind only the United States and China. He urged bullion service providers such as Pegadaian and Bank Syariah Indonesia to build public trust and attract even a fraction of these private holdings.

Services Become Mitra10's Mainstay as Business Expansion Continues in Bandung

Mitra10 has opened a new express store in Pasir Kaliki, Bandung, as part of its strategy to strengthen its position in the modern retail market for building materials and home improvement. The store, the 61st under PT Catur Mitra Sejati Sentosa, a subsidiary of PT Catur Sentosa Adiprana Tbk, features a hybrid service concept aimed at providing faster and more efficient customer service. The company plans to continue expanding across Indonesia, targeting growth in membership and contributing to national development.

Ministry guarantees medical equipment for NTT emergency response

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has pledged essential medical equipment for the Nagekeo field hospital following the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, prioritising emergency care after two main hospitals were paralysed. The government's response focuses on triage and patient referral within days, rehabilitation of damaged health facilities within eight to twelve months, and trauma healing through professional counsellors.

Indonesia seeks global markets for creative products via ION

Indonesia's Deputy Creative Economy Minister Irene Umar has announced a partnership with the ION digital platform to expand global market access for Indonesian creative products. The collaboration will focus on digital marketing, cross-border trade, financing, intellectual property protection, and AI integration. The creative economy attracted 183 trillion rupiah in investment in 2025, with exports reaching $31.94 billion and employing 27.4 million people.

Ibas pushes for quality-oriented education budget discussions

Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono, known as Ibas, has urged that discussions on the education budget in the 2027 State Budget Draft (RAPBN) focus on improving learning quality. He emphasised that budget success should be measured by its impact on students, teachers, schools, and equal access to education, rather than merely by spending levels. Ibas also called for data-driven school revitalisation, improved teacher welfare and competence, and preparing youth for the era of artificial intelligence.