Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 20 August 2026

Showing 1,451-1,500 of 1,593 articles

Two Accidents in Rawabuaya and Cawang Disrupt Morning KRL Services

Morning commuter rail services on the Tangerang and Bogor lines were disrupted on Thursday following two separate accidents. A train struck a motorcycle between Rawa Buaya and Batu Ceper stations, while another hit a person near Cawang station. KAI Commuter apologised for delays and said evacuation and inspection procedures were under way.

Xiaomi Phones Struggle, Replacement Products Sell Strongly

Xiaomi reported a 43% drop in adjusted net profit for the second quarter of 2026, marking its third consecutive quarterly decline, as the global memory chip crisis and weak smartphone demand weigh on earnings. The company is increasingly relying on electric vehicles and new phone models to offset pressure on its core handset business. Despite the challenges, Xiaomi shares have risen nearly 20% since late June, reflecting investor confidence in its growth prospects.

Weapons at South Jakarta School: Police Investigate Company-Foundation Partnership

Jakarta police are investigating a cooperation agreement between PT Lokta Karya Perbakin and the Harapan Ibu school foundation after hundreds of weapons were discovered at a school in Pondok Pinang, South Jakarta. Investigators have questioned 13 witnesses, including foundation officials and company executives, and are examining claims that the weapons were intended for a shooting extracurricular activity. The probe is focused on the origin, ownership, licensing, and storage of the weapons, which include 995 airsoft guns and a Franchi SPAS-15 shotgun.

Ministry of Defence: Kertajati Airport to Become Fighter Jet Maintenance Hub

Indonesia's Ministry of Defence has announced plans to develop Kertajati Airport in West Java into a maintenance and repair facility for Indonesian Air Force fighter jets. The initiative aims to reduce dependence on foreign parties and boost domestic defence industry capabilities through technology transfer. The airport is already being developed as a regional MRO centre for Hercules transport aircraft.

Gold Prices at Galeri 24, UBS, Antam-Antam Retro Today; Up or Down?

Gold bullion prices at Pegadaian's Galeri 24 weakened on Thursday, 20 August 2026, with all major brands including Galeri 24, Antam, UBS, and Antam Mulia Retro recording declines. The one-gram Antam bar fell by Rp51,000 to Rp2,685,000, while Galeri 24's one-gram product dropped to Rp2,645,000. The price movements reflect broader trends in the domestic precious metals market.

Duri-Tangerang KRL Services Also Delayed After Motorcycle Struck at Rawa Buaya

Commuter line services on the Duri-Tangerang route were disrupted on Thursday morning after a train struck a motorcycle at an unofficial level crossing between Rawa Buaya and Batu Ceper stations. The incident damaged the front of the train and required evacuation of the vehicle, prompting KAI Commuter to apologise for delays. It followed a separate incident on the Bogor-Jakarta Kota line where a person was struck near Tebet station.

Part-time PPPK teachers can join 2027 civil service selection, here are their rights and obligations

The government is preparing a pathway for part-time government contract teachers (PPPK) to become full-time PPPK in 2027, with full-time PPPK teachers also eligible to apply for civil servant (PNS) positions. Minister for Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform Rini Widyantini announced the plan, noting there are 955,245 full-time PPPK teachers and 231,246 part-time PPPK teachers. The article outlines the rights and obligations of full-time PPPK under existing regulations, including employment status, salary, leave, discipline, and termination provisions.

Mossad Chief Secretly Contacted This Arab Country, Suddenly Targeting Turkey

Mossad chief Roman Gofman reportedly held a high-level phone call with Syria's Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani on 14 August to discuss Turkey's military presence in Syria. The call preceded an Israeli airstrike on Syria's Abu al-Duhur airbase, which Israel justified as a response to Turkish military entrenchment. Turkey has rejected Israel's accusations, while the US has criticised the strike as an unnecessary escalation.

Koperasi Awards 2026 Held Today, Watch Only on detikcom!

The Koperasi Awards 2026, organised by detikcom and the Ministry of Cooperatives, takes place this evening to honour individuals and institutions contributing to Indonesia's cooperative movement. The event highlights the legacy of Mohammad Hatta and the government's priority programme for village cooperatives. Six award categories will recognise contributions ranging from grassroots development to youth engagement.

BPKH: 2027 Hajj Costs Must Balance Pilgrim Fairness and Financial Sustainability

Indonesia's Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) has urged that the 2027 Hajj pilgrimage cost (BPIH) be set with a balanced consideration of affordability for departing pilgrims, fairness for those still on the waiting list, and long-term financial sustainability. The agency presented simulations showing a potential funding shortfall of Rp6.87 trillion if the proposed cost structure is adopted. BPKH emphasised that decisions made now will affect the financial health of the Hajj fund for years to come.

Netanyahu Admits Striking Base in Syria to Warn Turkey

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has acknowledged that Israel struck an airbase in Idlib, Syria, to send a clear warning to Turkey against establishing a military presence there. The strike has raised concerns about a rapid escalation into direct military confrontation between Israel and Turkey. Ankara has denied any presence at the base and accused Israel of fabricating pretexts to destabilise the region.

JCI Falls Below 6,400 Again, Foreign Investors Caught Selling These Shares

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) closed down 0.86% at 6,394.13 on Wednesday (19/8/2026), despite foreign investors recording a net buy of Rp933.5 billion overall. The net buy figure was heavily skewed by a large transaction in DSSA shares, while foreign investors were net sellers of several major domestic stocks, led by Astra International.

Ministry of Defence Reveals Reasons Government Will Sell KRI Ki Hajar Dewantara

The Ministry of Defence has explained that the training warship KRI Ki Hajar Dewantara is slated for disposal due to its age and rising maintenance costs. The vessel, built in the 1980s, has been proposed for removal since 2017 and is now awaiting approval from the President and the House of Representatives. The sale is being pursued through a sale or auction mechanism.

Aftershocks Continue in NTT, When Will Activity Subside?

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has recorded over 3,000 aftershocks following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, with activity expected to decline significantly within three to four weeks. The death toll has risen to 73, with 931 people injured across seven districts on Flores Island. BMKG officials have sought to reassure the public that a quake of similar magnitude is unlikely to recur for decades.

Viral Video of UNP Freshers Walking Squatting Sparks Debate, Campus Denies Hazing

A viral video showing new students at Universitas Negeri Padang (UNP) walking in a squatting position during orientation has prompted the university to deny allegations of hazing. The university secretary explained that the activity was part of an agreed punishment for latecomers among engineering faculty freshers. The incident has drawn public attention to orientation practices at Indonesian universities.

BI Pushes for One Himbara Bank to Become Renminbi Clearing Bank

Bank Indonesia is accelerating the establishment of renminbi clearing banks in the country, targeting operations by the fourth quarter of 2026. The central bank is encouraging one state-owned bank from the Himbara group to join Bank of China as a second clearing bank. Domestic demand for renminbi has surged to US$38.9 billion by July 2026, nearly matching BI's full-year projection of US$40 billion.

Andre Rosiade Appreciates Government for Providing Certainty on PPPK Teacher Status

Gerindra Party spokesperson Andre Rosiade has praised the House of Representatives and the government for finalising a policy that provides legal certainty for teachers employed as government workers with work agreements (PPPK). The agreement includes a pathway for part-time PPPK teachers to become full-time PPPK in 2027 and the opportunity to apply for civil servant positions. Rosiade stated that Gerindra will oversee the administrative transition to ensure smooth implementation at the regional level.

Mimika Police Confirm 9 Women Held Hostage in Jila

Police in Mimika Regency, Central Papua, have confirmed that nine civilian women, mostly aged between 13 and 17, have been taken hostage by an armed group in Jila District. Authorities are preparing to conduct a crime scene investigation and have requested backup from the Brimob B Battalion to reinforce the local police post.

Prabowo Appreciates Dedication of Paskibraka for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day

President Prabowo Subianto has expressed his appreciation for the dedication of the National Flag Hoisting Team (Paskibraka) and all ceremony personnel involved in the 81st Independence Day commemoration at Merdeka Palace. He conveyed his gratitude through social media and hosted a gathering at his private residence in Hambalang, Bogor. The event was attended by Paskibraka members, ceremony commanders, military officers, and performers.

M 5.8 Aftershock Shakes Flores Island, No Tsunami Potential

A magnitude 5.8 aftershock struck Flores Island in East Nusa Tenggara on Thursday morning, causing residents to flee their homes. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) confirmed the shallow quake resulted from Flores Back-Arc Thrust activity and posed no tsunami risk.

Audit and Assurance Practice Challenges in the AI Era: IAPI and BINUS University Hold CPA Days 2026

The Indonesian Institute of Certified Public Accountants (IAPI) and BINUS University have launched CPA Days 2026 with a pre-event seminar and research workshop addressing the impact of artificial intelligence and data analytics on audit and assurance practices. The event brought together regulators, academics, practitioners, and students to discuss the competencies required for the profession in an increasingly technology-driven environment. Speakers emphasised that technological readiness must be balanced with professional ethics, independence, and sound judgement.

Saudi Sanctions Over Insurance Violations, Health Screening for 2027 Hajj Candidates Tightened

Indonesia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah will tighten health screening for 2027 Hajj candidates after Saudi Arabia blocked 14 million riyal in funds over alleged insurance violations. The move follows the discovery that some pilgrims with disqualifying health conditions had passed screening. Deputy Minister Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak acknowledged the dilemma between strict enforcement and the long waiting periods during which pilgrims' health may deteriorate.

Nurturing Pancasila from the village alley

Surabaya's Kampung Pancasila programme aims to embed the national ideology in everyday community life through a city-wide competition involving all neighbourhood units. The initiative focuses on practical problem-solving in areas such as poverty, education, and unemployment, rather than symbolic displays. The challenge is to ensure the competition fosters lasting solidarity rather than superficial improvements made only for assessment.

Yesterday's economy: Shell petrol station acquisition to Pertalite restrictions

A round-up of key economic developments from Wednesday, 19 August, covering the acquisition of Shell petrol stations in Indonesia by SEFAS Group, a new OJK appointment, Bank Indonesia's inflation mitigation plans and digital transaction growth, and the status of proposed Pertalite fuel restrictions.

BMKG: Rainy Season in Jabodetabek to Begin Mid-October

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has forecast that the rainy season in the Greater Jakarta area will commence gradually from mid-October. The agency noted that northern coastal areas will experience the onset later than other parts of the region. A detailed national prediction is expected to be officially released in early September.

Person Struck Near Tebet Station Disrupts Bogor-Jakarta KRL Services

Commuter line services between Bogor and Jakarta Kota were disrupted on Thursday morning after a person was struck by a train near Tebet Station. KAI Commuter confirmed that train KA 1183 hit an individual between Pasar Minggu and Manggarai stations at 06:35, and the incident is currently being handled by officers. Passengers have been advised to follow instructions from staff while the train undergoes inspection.

UMMADA Cirebon Empowers PKK Women to Develop Watermelon Rind Sweets

Lecturers and students from Universitas Muhammadiyah Ahmad Dahlan (UMMADA) Cirebon have conducted a community service programme in Sarewu Village, Kuningan, to train PKK women in processing watermelon rind into sweets. The initiative aims to reduce agricultural waste while creating value-added products, particularly to help alleviate nausea in pregnant women. The programme is funded by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology under the 2026 Community Partnership Empowerment scheme.

KPK Seizes Rp150 Billion in Assets from Silmy Karim Case, Including Vehicles and Land

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized approximately Rp150 billion in assets linked to an alleged extortion scheme involving foreign nationals' residence permits at the Directorate General of Immigration. The case implicates former Deputy Minister of Immigration Silmy Karim and several immigration officials. Investigators are also examining whether assets registered under other people's names point to money laundering.

Prabowo appreciates Paskibraka dedication in raising the Red and White

President Prabowo Subianto has expressed his appreciation for the dedication of the National Flag Hoisting Troop (Paskibraka) who performed their duties during the 81st Independence Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace. He conveyed his thanks through social media and hosted the ceremony personnel at his private residence in Hambalang, Bogor. The President urged them to carry the spirit of the Red and White in their future service to Indonesia.

Investment Credit Grows 25.13% in July 2026, Working Capital 11.04%

Bank Indonesia reported that bank lending accelerated to 13.58% year-on-year in July 2026, up from 12.67% in June, driven by a 25.13% surge in investment credit. The central bank attributed the growth to loose macroprudential policy and liquidity incentives, while noting that banking resilience remains strong with a capital adequacy ratio of 23.70% and low non-performing loans.

Bareskrim and FBI Uncover Chinese National's Fraud Against US Company

Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) and the FBI have dismantled a business email compromise scheme that defrauded a US company of USD 350,325. Two suspects, an Indonesian and a Chinese national, have been arrested, while the alleged mastermind remains at large in China. The FBI praised the collaboration, noting that most of the stolen funds were recovered.

Prodia Prepares Rp150 Billion Share Buyback, Starting Today

PT Prodia Widyahusada Tbk (PRDA) has announced a share buyback programme worth up to Rp150 billion, citing significant volatility in the capital market. The buyback will run from 20 August to 19 November 2026 and is expected to improve earnings per share and return on equity. The company said the move demonstrates healthy liquidity and will be funded entirely from internal cash reserves.

Agriculture Minister Amran Releases Food Aid Trucks in NTT: 'This Is Humanitarian, We Must Move Fast'

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has dispatched trucks carrying rice, cooking oil, instant noodles and sugar to communities affected by a disaster in East Nusa Tenggara, ordering immediate distribution without waiting for lengthy administrative procedures. He said the rapid response follows a direct instruction from President Prabowo Subianto and that bureaucratic processes must not delay emergency relief. Amran also increased a local request for 20 tonnes of rice to 200 tonnes on the spot and confirmed that regional rice stocks of around 39,000 tonnes are sufficient to cover the estimated 300 tonnes per month needed by roughly 34,000 displaced people.

Protesting Judge's Ruling, Lawyer: KPK Detention Centre Unable to Provide Medical Staff for Yaqut

The legal team of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has objected to a Jakarta court ruling that denied his request to be transferred from KPK detention to house arrest. His lawyer claims the KPK detention centre cannot provide the specialised medical care Yaqut requires, necessitating daily visits from external medical personnel. The judge had previously ruled that his medical needs could still be met within the detention facility.

From 200-Day Verification to 5 Minutes: Indonesia's New Social Assistance Revolution

The Indonesian government has drastically accelerated the verification process for social assistance recipients, reducing the time from 200 days to just five minutes through digitalisation. The new digital social protection system integrates data from eight ministries and agencies to filter eligibility, ensuring aid reaches the intended recipients. A trial in Surabaya identified approximately 51,000 households that were entitled to assistance but had not been receiving it.

Trump Announces Economic Operation Targeting Iran, Threatens Sanctions on Supporting Countries

US President Donald Trump has unveiled a sweeping economic campaign against Iran, warning of severe sanctions on any country that provides financial or logistical support. The announcement follows failed negotiations over the Strait of Hormuz and signals an escalation in US-Iran tensions. Trump described the measures as the most devastating economic operation ever conducted against a nation.

KPK Has Seized Assets Worth Rp150 Billion in Silmy Karim Immigration Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized assets valued at approximately Rp150 billion in the investigation into alleged extortion of foreign nationals' residence permits and gratification between 2022 and 2026. The case implicates former Deputy Minister of Immigration Silmy Karim and seven other suspects. Investigators are also examining whether assets were registered under other people's names, which could lead to money laundering charges.

With a Campaign Fund One-Thirteenth of Her Rival's, Angie Nixon Scores Shock Victory; Here Is Trump's Reaction

Progressive Florida state representative Angie Nixon defeated Alexander Vindman in the Democratic primary for a US Senate seat despite being outspent by more than thirteen to one. Her victory is being seen as evidence that organised grassroots support can overcome establishment backing and financial advantage. The result has drawn attention from national political figures, including former President Donald Trump.

Ruteng Shaken by Dozens of Earthquakes, Largest Tremor This Morning Reaches M 5.6

A series of earthquakes has struck Ruteng in Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, since Wednesday evening, with the strongest tremor on Thursday morning recorded at magnitude 5.6. The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) confirmed the quake posed no tsunami risk, though shaking was felt at intensity III-IV MMI. Seismic activity continued with aftershocks, including a magnitude 4.8 quake just one minute later.

Bad News for Indonesian Coal Entrepreneurs: South Korea Turns to Russia

South Korea's coal imports from Russia surged 89.4% in the first half of 2026, while Indonesian shipments fell 2.5%, signalling a shift in market share. Russia and Australia together added 11 million tonnes of supply, more than offsetting declines from Indonesia, Colombia, and the US. The development highlights growing competition for Indonesian coal in key Asian markets.

Jakarta's air quality ranks third worst in the world on Thursday morning

Jakarta's air quality was ranked the third worst globally on Thursday morning, with an AQI of 162, classified as unhealthy. The DKI Jakarta provincial government is implementing strategies including electric buses and waste-to-fuel facilities to address the issue. Residents are advised to wear masks outdoors.

Mystery Surrounds Arson Attack on Teacher's Room at Yappi Islamic Primary School in Gunungkidul

Police in Gunungkidul are investigating a suspected arson attack at MI Yappi in Nglipar, where a kitchen door and the roof of the teacher's room were set alight using diesel fuel. No casualties were reported, but the school has been repeatedly targeted by break-ins, most recently in July 2026. Lessons have been temporarily relocated to a nearby mosque while investigations continue.

Alert! US Debt About to 'Explode', Reaches Rp 712 Thousand Trillion

The United States national debt has officially surpassed US$40 trillion for the first time in history, triggering warnings of a fiscal crisis. Rising social safety net costs and interest payments now far exceed government revenue, exacerbated by large tax cuts. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has responded with aggressive bond buybacks, while President Trump dismissed market volatility and demanded lower interest rates.

Alert! US National Debt Breaks Threshold, Reaches Rp 712 Thousand Trillion

The United States' national debt has officially surpassed US$40 trillion for the first time in history, triggering warnings of a fiscal crisis. The surge is driven by soaring social safety net costs and interest payments that now far exceed government revenue following massive tax cuts. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has responded by doubling bond buybacks, while President Trump has dismissed concerns and called for lower interest rates.

Ahead of NU Congress, Women Ulama Proposed for AHWA Membership

The Jaringan Nahdlatul Ulama Kultural (Janur) is urging that women ulama be given the opportunity to serve on the Ahlul Halli Wal Aqdi (AHWA) at the 35th NU Congress in Jombang in August 2026. Janur argues that no explicit rule bars women from the body, which plays a strategic role in selecting the Rais Aam of PBNU. Two women ulama, Nyai Sinta Nuriyah Abdurrahman Wahid and Nyai Machfudhoh Aly Ubaid, are named as qualified candidates.

Female Ulama Proposed for AHWA Membership

The Nahdlatul Ulama Cultural Network (Janur) has proposed that female ulama be given the opportunity to serve as members of the Ahlul Halli Wal Aqdi (AHWA) at the 35th NU Congress in Jombang, East Java, in August 2026. Janur argues that no explicit rule bars women from the strategic body, which determines the Rais Aam of PBNU. Two prominent female ulama, Nyai Sinta Nuriyah and Nyai Machfudhoh Aly Ubaid, have been put forward as qualified candidates.

Mobile Samsat outlets available in 14 Jadetabek areas on Thursday

The Metro Jaya Regional Police have deployed mobile Samsat units across 14 locations in Jakarta, Depok, Tangerang and Bekasi on Thursday to facilitate annual motor vehicle tax payments. The service operates at varying times between 08:00 and 18:00 WIB, with locations including markets, malls, sub-district offices and Samsat car parks. Motorists are reminded that five-yearly tax payments and number plate replacements must still be processed directly at a Samsat office.

Tourist destinations still closed in NTT and BTS recovery

Several tourist destinations in East Nusa Tenggara remain temporarily closed following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake as a safety precaution. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs reports that 99.9 percent of Base Transceiver Station infrastructure affected by the quake has been restored.

Three IDF Members Ejected from Bali Gym, Owner Hits Back at One-Star Review

A gym owner in Ubud, Bali, ejected three foreign nationals believed to be members of the Israel Defense Forces after one of them was reportedly rude to staff. The owner said the men entered Indonesia using non-Israeli passports and defended his decision on moral grounds, rejecting accusations of racism and religious discrimination. Indonesian immigration and police are now investigating the incident.

6 Horrific Facts About Indonesian 'Mail-Order Bride' Victims in China Who Were Tortured by Their Husbands

Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has uncovered a human trafficking ring that sent Indonesian women to China as 'mail-order brides'. Victims were promised Rp 10 million per month after marriage but were instead subjected to physical abuse and forced to work as domestic helpers. Two suspects have been named in the case, with investigators highlighting Singkawang in West Kalimantan as a key transit point for the syndicate.