Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 20 August 2026

Showing 101-150 of 1,593 articles

Ministry of Cooperatives honours Indonesian cooperative champions

The Ministry of Cooperatives has presented the 2026 Koperasi Award to individuals, cooperatives, and public officials for their dedication to strengthening Indonesia's people-based economy. Minister Ferry Juliantono emphasised that cooperatives remain relevant and must modernise to work alongside state-owned and private enterprises. The awards recognised leaders from cooperatives, regional governments, state-owned enterprises, and national figures.

Purbaya: Rp44 Billion for NTT Disaster Already Transferred Since Early August

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has clarified that the Rp44 billion in disaster relief funds for East Nusa Tenggara was not a new allocation, but part of emergency response funding transferred to regional governments in early August 2026. The clarification follows confusion after his visit to earthquake-affected areas, where a local regent appeared unaware of the recent transfer. The government is now calculating additional funding needs for recovery and rehabilitation phases.

PT MPG enhances preparedness through Class D firefighter training

PT Meulaboh Power Generation has conducted Class D firefighter training for 24 employees to strengthen workplace fire emergency preparedness. The three-day programme covered fire safety fundamentals, protection systems, evacuation procedures, and practical extinguishing exercises. The initiative forms part of the company's commitment to occupational health and safety management at its power plant in Nagan Raya, Aceh.

Omoda O4 Features: AI Electric Car Priced at Rp400 Million with 611 Km Range

OMODA & Jaecoo Indonesia is preparing to launch the Omoda O4, an AI-equipped electric crossover with a claimed range of 611 kilometres, in the fourth quarter of 2026. Priced at around Rp400 million, the vehicle features a single electric motor producing 160 kW and 275 Nm of torque. The company positions the model as 'The First AI Car for Everyone', targeting the growing Indonesian EV market.

US Doubles Bond Buybacks, Purbaya: Following Indonesia's Lead

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has stated that the United States' decision to double its government bond buyback programme validates Indonesia's earlier adoption of the same policy. He noted that both countries are using buybacks to maintain liquidity and prevent economic disruption. The US Treasury has increased its buyback ceiling from $2 billion to at least $4 billion per operation.

DEN Criticises Regional Government as Renewable Energy Achievement in NTB Reaches Only 17 Percent

The National Energy Council (DEN) has questioned West Nusa Tenggara's renewable energy progress, which stands at just 17 percent despite ambitious targets set out in the regional energy plan. The province aims for 100 percent renewable energy by 2050, a decade ahead of the national net zero target, but implementation has lagged significantly. The University of Mataram has developed numerous renewable energy innovations, though scaling them up to industrial level remains a challenge.

House member urges government to evaluate components of proposed 2027 Hajj costs

A member of House Commission VIII has called for a thorough evaluation of the proposed 2027 Hajj pilgrimage costs, insisting that efficiency and transparency must be prioritised before any increase is approved. Selly Andriany Gantina stressed that the Hajj fund is a public trust and must be managed sustainably and fairly for both current pilgrims and those still on the waiting list.

Bali Electricity Consumption Grows 8.02%, PLN Adds Supply and Strengthens Energy Resilience

Electricity consumption in Bali grew by 8.02 percent in the first half of 2026, one of the highest rates in Indonesia, driven by rising economic activity and tourism. State utility PLN is accelerating additional generation capacity and promoting solar power development to strengthen the island's energy resilience. The company views reliable electricity supply as essential for sustaining Bali's role as a national tourism and economic hub.

Bali's Electricity Reserve Limited, Risk of Rotating Supply; Solar Power Seen as Solution

Bali faces a potential rotating electricity supply scheme by 2027 if no additional energy supply is secured, according to state utility PLN. The island's peak load has reached around 1,300 MW against installed capacity of about 1,477 MW, with dependence on subsea cables from Java. PLN is prioritising solar power development, targeting around 600 MW of new capacity to enter the Bali system by 2027.

Bali's Electricity Reserve Limited, Risk of Rotating Supply

State electricity firm PLN has warned that Bali could face rotating electricity supply by 2027 if no additional energy capacity is added, as the island's reserve margin has become critically thin. Peak demand has reached around 1,300 MW against installed capacity of 1,477 MW, while a 100 MW diesel unit is undergoing maintenance. PLN and the government are prioritising solar power development, targeting around 600 MW of new capacity to enter the Bali system by 2027.

High Economic Growth, but the Lower Classes Have Not Felt It

The Indonesian Islamic Business Forum (IIBF) has highlighted a divergence in Indonesia's economy, where national growth above 5 percent has not been felt by the lower classes. The organisation points to soaring corporate credit while MSME lending remains minimal, and rising consumption alongside falling public savings. IIBF is positioning itself as an economic sensor and honest partner to the government, promoting its 'Buy Indonesian' movement to distribute welfare more evenly.

Jakarta Customs Destroys 12.9 Million Illegal Cigarettes

The Jakarta Regional Customs Office has destroyed illegal excisable goods worth Rp20.18 billion, including nearly 13 million illegal cigarettes, seized during operations up to July 2026. The action prevented an estimated Rp11.81 billion in potential state losses. The Director General of Customs and Excise also revealed that illegal cigarette smuggling interceptions doubled year-on-year to 1.2 billion sticks in the first seven months of 2026.

Mimika Regency Government: Health workers and teachers evacuated from Jila District

The Mimika Regency Government in Central Papua has evacuated health workers, teachers, and civil servants from Jila District following a hostage-taking incident by an armed group on 17 August 2026. The evacuation was carried out by Indonesian Air Force helicopter on 18 August, temporarily halting public services in the area. Local officials have urged residents to remain calm and trust the security forces to restore order.

West Jakarta PPAPP strengthens role of youth counselling centres

The West Jakarta Child Protection and Population Control Sub-agency (PPAPP) has held a workshop to strengthen the role of Youth Information and Counselling Centres (PIK-R). The initiative aims to equip youth organisers with knowledge and skills on adolescent issues, including reproductive health and life planning. Officials emphasised that adolescents are a vital part of national development and need safe spaces for discussion and guidance.

Gajah Mada Plaza Transformation Ready to Embrace Area Development

Gajah Mada Plaza has been rebranded as Lippo Icon Gajah Mada after a comprehensive renovation, marking 44 years of the shopping centre's operation. The transformation includes a 90 per cent occupancy rate with over 60 per cent new tenants, positioning the mall as a modern lifestyle destination. The revamp is strategically aligned with the planned MRT Jakarta Corridor 2 development, which will connect the Kota area to West Ancol via Gajah Mada and Harmoni.

Indonesia's free health checks reach 82 million participants

Indonesia's free health screening programme has reached 82 million participants, with the government targeting 130 million people by 2026. The initiative has detected significant cases of diabetes and hypertension, underscoring the importance of early diagnosis. Patients diagnosed through the programme will receive tailored treatment at community health centres or hospitals, as part of efforts to reduce preventable diseases nationwide.

Israel Hit by New 'Tsunami' of Emigration, Country Could Be Severely Shaken

A Tel Aviv University study reveals that nearly 270,000 Israelis left the country between 2023 and 2025, with emigration rates remaining consistently high. Experts warn that the outflow is increasingly dominated by highly educated, high-income families, driven by security uncertainty, political polarisation, and judicial reforms. The trend raises serious concerns about Israel's long-term social, political, and economic stability ahead of crucial elections.

Vice President Gibran Cradles Baby Injured in NTT Earthquake

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka visited earthquake victims in Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, on Thursday, cradling a baby being treated in an emergency tent at TC Hillers Hospital. He assured that the needs of children in evacuation shelters, including food and safety, are being met. The visit was part of government efforts to ensure post-disaster handling runs smoothly.

Expert Highlights Importance of Predicate Offence in Gold Discovery at Febrie's Residence

A criminal law expert has stressed that investigators must first establish a predicate offence before proceeding with money laundering charges against former junior attorney general Febrie Adriansyah. The testimony was given during a pretrial hearing at the South Jakarta District Court, where the Attorney General's Office defended its decision to name Febrie a suspect. The case centres on gold found at his Sentul residence.

Contributing to geothermal development, ATR/BPN receives award

The Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) has been recognised by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources for its role in supporting geothermal development in Indonesia. The award acknowledges the ministry's contribution to land acquisition, legal certainty, and dispute resolution for geothermal projects, including those classified as National Strategic Projects. The recognition is expected to strengthen collaboration between the two ministries in advancing renewable energy.

SRT Soppeng postpones MPLS due to incomplete facilities

Sekolah Rakyat Terintegrasi (SRT) in Soppeng Regency, South Sulawesi, has delayed its school orientation programme for new students by one week due to unfinished dormitory facilities. The school prioritises student safety and comfort, with electricity, water and furniture still being installed in one dormitory. Meanwhile, 84 existing students have been learning at a temporary site since July, and the school has enrolled 270 new students for the 2026-2027 academic year.

Viral Vehicle Chassis Number Checks at GBK: DPR Demands Criminal Penalties for Illegal Perpetrators

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III has called for criminal prosecution of individuals who illegally inspect vehicle chassis numbers, a practice known as 'ngolong'. The demand follows a viral video showing two men checking a car's chassis number at the Gelora Bung Karno complex, which is now under investigation by Polda Metro Jaya. The legislator also urged authorities to pursue the leasing companies that employ such debt collectors and impose sanctions ranging from administrative penalties by the OJK to criminal charges.

Filthy! Boarding Room in Condongcatur, Sleman, Full of Rubbish Left by Tenant

A boarding house owner in Sleman, Yogyakarta, was shocked to discover a room left by a long-term tenant filled with rubbish, including plastic bottles, broken furniture, and bottles of urine. The tenant, identified as Faisal, had claimed to be moving to Australia on a scholarship but left the room in a severely neglected state. The owner has shared the incident on social media in an effort to hold the former tenant accountable.

OJK Kediri encourages students to save through 'Kejar' programme

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) in Kediri has partnered with the Trenggalek Regency Government to promote saving habits among students through the 'One Student One Account' (Kejar) programme and the 'Sangu Sampah' waste-saving initiative. The collaboration combines financial literacy with environmental awareness, aiming to build prudent financial management skills from an early age. The initiative was highlighted during the 2026 Indonesia Savings Day commemoration, attended by 853 junior and senior high school students.

Bank BSN Posts Rp643.6 Billion Profit, Up 40 Percent

PT Bank Syariah Nasional (Bank BSN) reported a gross profit of Rp643.6 billion up to July 2026, a 40 percent year-on-year increase, driven by strong growth in assets, financing, and third-party funds. The performance marks a successful first year following its institutional transformation from the acquisition of Bank Victoria Syariah and the spin-off of BTN's sharia unit. Bank BSN has also expanded its subsidised mortgage distribution and digital banking services, with leadership emphasising continued focus on housing finance and economic empowerment.

PAM Jaya targets all residents of Untung Jawa Island to use piped water

Jakarta's water utility PAM Jaya is aiming to connect all households on Untung Jawa Island in the Seribu Islands regency to piped water, moving residents away from groundwater use. Currently 170 homes are connected to the Sea Water Reverse Osmosis (SWRO) system, while 370 remain to be connected. The initiative supports a broader push towards a 100 per cent piped water coverage target and aligns with Jakarta's planned ban on groundwater extraction.

PDIP Dispatches Laksamana Malahayati Ship Carrying Aid for NTT Earthquake Victims

The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) has deployed the Laksamana Malahayati vessel to deliver medical and logistical aid to earthquake-hit Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. The mission, ordered by party chair Megawati Soekarnoputri, includes supplies specifically for women and children. Party secretary-general Hasto Kristiyanto also urged the government to prioritise disaster funding in the state budget given Indonesia's vulnerability to natural hazards.

Bandung Mayor to Borrow Money Amid APBD Deficit Concerns, How Are Civil Servant Salaries?

Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan has confirmed that civil servant salaries remain secure despite concerns over a potential regional budget deficit. The city administration is exploring financing options, including borrowing, to meet its expenditure needs. Farhan cited West Java Province's plan to borrow Rp 3.7 trillion as an example of the approach being considered.

To Prevent Corruption, Deputy Home Affairs Minister Stresses the Importance of Regional Heads' Integrity

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Akhmad Wiyagus has urged all regional heads to uphold integrity to achieve clean, corruption-free governance. Speaking at a coordination meeting in Semarang, he highlighted that many regional leaders from political or business backgrounds lack familiarity with public financial management regulations. The initiative aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's Asta Cita priority on bureaucratic reform and anti-corruption.

Price Ceiling Setting Can Prevent Market Failure

A discussion at the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Law examined the government's constitutional authority to intervene in markets through price and tariff setting. Experts argued that such interventions are necessary responses to market failures and should not automatically be classified as cartel practices. The debate highlighted tensions between the OJK's consumer protection stance on online lending interest rate caps and the KPPU's competition law assessment.

Illiza Inaugurated as Coordinator of FKKA 2025-2030

Banda Aceh Mayor Illiza Sa'aduddin Djamal has been inaugurated as Coordinator of the Aceh Regency/City Government Communication Forum (FKKA) for the 2025-2030 period. The inauguration was conducted by Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya. Illiza expressed hope that the forum would strengthen inter-regional synergy in policy-making and support efforts to revise the Aceh Government Law.

Village Fund Allocation in 2027 State Budget Draft Rises by Rp21.7 Trillion: Focus on KDMP

The Indonesian government has proposed a Village Fund allocation of Rp77.0 trillion in the 2027 State Budget Draft, an increase of Rp21.7 trillion or 39.3 per cent from the 2026 outlook. The additional funding is primarily intended to meet maturing obligations for the accelerated physical development of Koperasi Desa Merah Putih (KDMP) outlets, warehouses, and related facilities. The government also outlined five policy directions for the 2027 Village Fund, including support for sustainable development and strengthened governance.

Jakarta regional enterprises collect aid for NTT earthquake victims

Jakarta's regional-owned enterprises and government agencies have contributed Rp1.11 billion in cash and other assistance for victims of the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The aid, part of a total Rp5.85 billion package, includes water tanks, a mobile water treatment plant, food, medical supplies, and non-food items. Distribution will be coordinated with the national disaster management system via air and sea routes.

Police evacuate elderly woman and pregnant mother in NTT by air

The Indonesian National Police evacuated an elderly earthquake victim and a pregnant woman from Palue, Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, using helicopters due to limited land and sea access. The operation was part of a coordinated emergency response with BNPB and local authorities to ensure urgent medical care for those affected by the earthquake.

Inaugurated as FKKA Coordinator, Illiza: Forum to Realise Synergy between Regencies and Cities

Banda Aceh Mayor Illiza Sa'aduddin Djamal has been inaugurated as Coordinator of the Aceh Regency/City Government Communication Forum (FKKA) for the 2025-2030 period. She expressed hope that the forum will strengthen synergy and harmonisation among local governments in formulating regional policies. Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya, who officiated the ceremony, described the forum as strategically important for channelling on-the-ground realities to the central government.

South Sumatra Governor Receives Bakti Koperasi Nayaka Mahambara Award: Motivation for Us

South Sumatra Governor Herman Deru received the Bakti Koperasi Nayaka Mahambara award at the 2026 Koperasi Awards, viewing it as motivation to further develop cooperatives in the province. He outlined efforts to integrate cooperative education into school curricula from primary to secondary level. Deru also emphasised the cooperative movement's role as a moral and mutual-aid stronghold, urging young people to embrace its values alongside digital convenience.

Police to summon Ruben Onsu next week over investment fraud case

South Jakarta Metropolitan Police will summon celebrity Ruben Onsu for questioning as a suspect in an alleged investment fraud and embezzlement case. The case stems from a police report filed on 22 August 2025, and investigators have examined more than six witnesses, including expert witnesses. Onsu was recently named a suspect after the case was upgraded from inquiry to investigation.

Widespread Extortion of Civil Servants by Regional Heads in Central Java, KPK Deputy Chair: Integrity is Key to Preventing All Crimes

KPK Deputy Chair Johanis Tanak has emphasised that integrity is the fundamental key to preventing corruption, responding to the rising number of cases involving regional heads extorting civil servants in Central Java. Speaking after a corruption prevention coordination meeting in Semarang, he expressed hope that outreach and education efforts would be fully effective in stopping such abuses. Tanak also voiced his expectation that there would be no further misappropriation of state funds.

Minister of Immigration and Corrections inaugurates 53 Pimpasa to provide easier immigration services

Minister of Immigration and Corrections Agus Andrianto has inaugurated 53 Village Immigration Officers (Pimpasa) in Medan, North Sumatra, as part of efforts to bring immigration services closer to the public. The ceremony also included the handover of certificates to 171 Immigration-Assisted Villages and the operational launch of three immigration lounges. The programme aims to strengthen public service delivery, prevent human trafficking and people smuggling, and uphold national sovereignty through professional immigration oversight.

OJK: Pawnshop loans in West Papua Region grow 53.71 percent

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) reported that outstanding pawnshop loans in the West Papua Region reached Rp1.48 trillion in May 2026, a 53.71 percent year-on-year increase. Financing companies also posted positive growth, with non-performing financing declining to 2.72 percent. Insurance premiums and fintech lending also recorded growth, indicating broad-based expansion in the region's financial sector.

Riau Police and TNI Battle to Contain Forest and Land Fires in Pelalawan

Forest and land fires in Kerumutan, Pelalawan Regency, Riau have burned an estimated 270 hectares over 23 days, with 81 hectares now brought under control. Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan and Military Commander Major General Agus Hadi Waluyo visited the site to support joint firefighting efforts. Authorities stressed the importance of cross-agency collaboration, rapid response, prevention, and law enforcement against land burning.

Fire destroys resident's house in Kembangan, West Jakarta

A house in the Joglo area of Kembangan, West Jakarta, was completely destroyed by fire on Thursday evening. The West Jakarta Fire and Rescue Service deployed 10 fire engines and 50 personnel to extinguish the blaze. No casualties were reported, but the financial losses are still under investigation.

Police Investigate Viral Video of Two Men Under Car in GBK Parking Area

Jakarta police are investigating a viral video showing two men acting suspiciously beneath a car in the Gelora Bung Karno parking area. Authorities suspect the men may be debt collectors attempting to locate vehicles with outstanding payments. Police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity rather than confront individuals directly.

IRGC to Use Precision Missiles with More Powerful Warheads if War Erupts Again

A senior Iranian Revolutionary Guard commander has warned that Iran has prepared more destructive precision weapons for use if conflict reignites in the Middle East. The statement follows claims by Iranian military officials that over 75 percent of the country's missile and drone stockpiles remain intact, contradicting US President Donald Trump's assertions that Iran's military capabilities have been destroyed.

Cianjur Prosecutor's Office Names Two Suspects in Bank Credit Corruption, State Losses Reach Rp 3.8 Billion

The Cianjur District Prosecutor's Office has named two suspects in a corruption case involving credit facilities at a state-owned bank between 2022 and 2025. The alleged scheme involved fabricating business credentials for 62 debtor accounts, resulting in state losses of approximately Rp 3.86 billion. Both suspects, a bank official and a third party, have been detained.

List of Recipients of the Bakti Koperasi Pradana Nayaka Award at the 2026 Koperasi Awards

The 2026 Koperasi Awards, organised by detikcom and the Ministry of Cooperatives, has announced 14 recipients of the Bakti Koperasi Pradana Nayaka award. The award recognises ministers, deputy ministers, and agency heads for their role in supporting the Koperasi Desa/Kelurahan Merah Putih (KDKMP) programme. The event highlights the government's push to strengthen cooperatives as a pillar of the people's economy.

Verbal Clash Among Solo Palace Family Mars Gamelan Sekaten Tradition

The traditional procession of the Kyai Sekati gamelan from the Surakarta Kasunanan Palace was marred by tension between rival royal family factions. The dispute centres on whether the removal of the gamelan had been authorised by the reigning monarch, with each faction recognising a different claimant to the throne. The incident, which went viral on social media, underscores the ongoing succession conflict within the Solo royal court.

DEN Urges NTB to Harness Geothermal Energy from Mount Tambora and Rinjani

West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) holds an estimated 179 MW of geothermal potential from Mount Tambora and Rinjani, alongside untapped solar, micro-hydro and bioenergy resources. National Energy Council (DEN) members argue the province's active volcanic geology makes it unsuitable for fossil fuel or nuclear development, positioning it instead as a potential pioneer in Indonesia's clean energy transition. They are urging stronger collaboration between local government, universities and private investors to accelerate renewable energy development.

Data Centre Boom Brings Windfall, Here's the List of Beneficiaries

The surge in artificial intelligence-driven data centre construction is boosting American manufacturing, with companies like Generac and Timken seeing soaring demand for generators, bearings, and other industrial equipment. The boom has helped reverse job losses in the US manufacturing sector, though concerns remain about whether the growth is sustainable or a potential bubble.

BRI reports Qlola transaction volume reaches Rp8,799 trillion as of June 2026

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk announced that transaction volume through its digital banking platform for non-individual customers, Qlola by BRI, reached Rp8,799 trillion as of June 2026, a 51 percent year-on-year increase. Active users surpassed 99,000, growing 42.6 percent year-on-year. The bank also unveiled a refreshed interface for Qlola, built on three pillars: personalisation, connectivity, and seamless user experience.