Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 20 August 2026

Showing 151-200 of 1,593 articles

Severe Traffic Congestion on Main Cimahi Roads, Here's the Cause

Two major infrastructure projects in Cimahi have caused severe traffic congestion on main roads, forcing motorists to seek alternative routes. The construction of the Gatot Subroto Underpass and repairs to a bridge near the municipal government office have led to temporary road closures starting 19 August 2026 for approximately three months. The local transportation agency has implemented traffic diversions and opened a two-way lane at Underpass Dustira to ease congestion, while the mayor has defended the simultaneous execution of both projects citing funding deadlines and urgent safety concerns.

Feeling Hot and Humid in Bandung, Here's BMKG's Explanation

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) in Bandung has attributed the recent hot and humid conditions in Greater Bandung to local convective cloud growth and warm sea surface temperatures. The agency has urged residents to remain vigilant during the dry season, warning against open burning and preparing for drought. Over 400 sub-districts in West Java are reportedly experiencing drought, with the regional disaster agency continuing to distribute clean water.

Garuda Party Supports and Monitors President Prabowo's MSME Financing and Digitalisation Programme

The Garuda Party has pledged to support and monitor the government's programme to strengthen micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) under President Prabowo Subianto. The party highlighted that MSME financing has reached nearly Rp2,000 trillion as of June 2026, while QRIS digital payment adoption has surpassed 45 million merchants. The party views expanded access to capital and accelerated digital transformation as concrete steps to reinforce the people's economy.

Bareskrim Hunts Yuwanky, Nightclub Drug Kingpin Who Fled to Singapore

Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has placed Yuwanky, owner of the Planet Batam nightclub, on its wanted list for allegedly operating as a drug kingpin. The suspect, a repeat drug offender, is believed to have fled to Singapore. Police are coordinating with Interpol to pursue him.

Harris Abdi Sembiring Meliala inaugurated as President Director of PTK

PT Pertamina Trans Kontinental (PTK) shareholders have inaugurated Harris Abdi Sembiring Meliala as the company's new President Director. Harris outlined a strategic framework called SIAP, focusing on operational reliability, adaptability, and synergy to strengthen PTK's integrated marine logistics services. The appointment is expected to bolster operational integration and business expansion within Pertamina's Integrated Marine Logistics subholding.

Attorney General's Office Says Febrie Adriansyah's Testimony During Examination Was Not Factual

The Attorney General's Office has argued that former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah provided information inconsistent with facts discovered during the investigation. The office maintains his detention is lawful and meets the requirements of the Criminal Procedure Code. The statement was made in response to Febrie's second pre-trial motion challenging the legality of his suspect designation.

Legislator: US-Iran conflict a momentum to strengthen food and energy security

House of Representatives Commission IV member Johan Rosihan has urged the government to use the US-Iran conflict as a catalyst to bolster Indonesia's food and energy resilience. He warned that geopolitical tensions in the Middle East could trigger a domino effect on oil prices, logistics costs, the rupiah exchange rate, and food production and distribution expenses. Rosihan called for measured mitigation measures, including securing fuel stocks, strengthening food reserves, stabilising the exchange rate, and protecting farmers, fishermen, MSMEs, and low-income communities.

UPI hands over 1,018 Sekolah Rakyat learning modules to Ministry of Social Affairs

The Ministry of Social Affairs has received 1,018 learning modules covering 177 subjects for Sekolah Rakyat, developed in collaboration with Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia. The modules will be delivered through a digital Learning Management System to improve access and efficiency. Officials emphasised that the programme focuses not only on academic achievement but also on character building and psychosocial support.

Hotel Guest Makes Off with Three TVs from Rooms in Bandung

A man has been caught on CCTV stealing three televisions from a hotel in Bandung after booking three rooms using a fake identity. The suspect, who wore a cap and mask, was seen calmly carrying the TVs in large bags to a waiting car before leaving the premises. The incident, which occurred on Monday, has gone viral on social media and is under investigation.

Citi Indonesia Reveals Global and Domestic Factors That Could Ease Pressure on the Rupiah

Citi Indonesia's chief economist has outlined several global and domestic factors that could reduce pressure on the rupiah, including lower oil prices, a weaker US dollar, and a narrowing current account deficit. The bank also expects US Treasury yields to fall and foreign investor appetite for Indonesian government bonds to improve. Domestically, a smaller-than-expected 2026 state budget deficit is seen as reducing the risk of oversupply in the bond market.

Former Liberian Vice President Arrested at Airport on Drug Charges

Liberia's former Vice President Jewel Howard-Taylor has been formally charged with involvement in a drug trafficking network, money laundering, and other criminal offences. She was detained at Roberts International Airport just before boarding a flight. The arrest forms part of a wider government crackdown on transnational cocaine trafficking through West Africa.

Geological Agency Inspects Earthquake, Tsunami and Ground Movement in NTT

The Geological Agency has reported three disaster events following the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara: the earthquake itself, a tsunami, and ground movement. Damage assessments in Nagekeo and Sikka have forced residents to evacuate, while tsunami traces and landslides have been documented across several regencies. The agency has called for immediate building safety assessments and repairs to affected infrastructure.

PT PAL: Kamikaze USV capable of carrying out attack to reconnaissance missions

PT PAL Indonesia has developed the Kamikaze Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV), which is capable of both attack missions and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) operations. The vessel, which can reach speeds of up to 55 knots, successfully completed an attack scenario during the 2026 TNI Joint Exercise. The company's president director emphasised that the development is part of efforts to build domestic defence technology capabilities.

Bantul Regent Receives 2026 Koperasi Awards in Bakti Koperasi Nayaka Mahambara Category

Bantul Regent Abdul Halim Muslih has been honoured with the 2026 Koperasi Awards in the Bakti Koperasi Nayaka Mahambara category, recognising his contribution to Indonesia's cooperative movement. The award, presented at the St Regis Hotel in South Jakarta, acknowledges state officials who have delivered policies and programmes supporting economic welfare and self-reliance. The event was organised by the Ministry of Cooperatives and detikcom, with support from major state-owned enterprises.

House Commission IV Urges Government to Involve Communities in Tackling Forest and Land Fires

Deputy Chairman of House Commission IV Hanan A. Razak has called for stronger cross-ministerial coordination and community involvement to address the threat of forest and land fires in Kalimantan. He emphasised the need for integrated prevention and response measures, particularly given the heightened risk posed by El Niño. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency reported 1,487 hotspots across Kalimantan, with Central Kalimantan recording the highest concentration.

PKK Women in Banjar Create Business Opportunities Through Pumpkin Crisps

Twenty-one PKK members in Sungai Batang Ilir Village, Banjar Regency, have completed a three-month training programme to turn pumpkins into economically valuable crisps. The initiative, funded by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology, was led by Lambung Mangkurat University's Pharmacy programme. Participants also received training in financial administration and digital marketing to support sustainable small enterprises.

Cimahi Adjusts Traffic Management as Underpass Construction Congestion Eases

Cimahi's transportation agency has revised traffic diversion schemes around the Gatot Subroto underpass construction after severe congestion on the first day. The new contraflow arrangement and additional personnel have alleviated the gridlock, with the deputy mayor seeking further measures to open one lane during construction.

United States Urges UAE to Increase Economic Pressure on Iran

The United States has been pressing the United Arab Emirates to intensify economic pressure on Iran, according to sources cited by The Wall Street Journal. UAE officials are concerned that Washington's strategy could harm Gulf economies reliant on tourism and trade, while also seeking to maintain diplomatic channels with Tehran. President Donald Trump has announced what he called the most devastating economic operation ever conducted against any nation.

Fire Destroys Restaurant Project Barracks in Canggu, Car Gutted and Losses Reach Rp 500 Million

A fire broke out at a restaurant project barracks in Canggu, Bali, on Thursday afternoon, destroying the building, a car, a motorbike, and various equipment. The blaze, believed to have started from an electrical cable spark, caused an estimated Rp 500 million in losses. No casualties were reported.

Not Just Financing, Retirement Programme Now Focuses on Mentoring

Bank Mandiri Taspen and PT Petrokimia Gresik have signed a memorandum of understanding to build a sustainable mentoring ecosystem for employees approaching retirement. The partnership aims to keep retirees economically productive through entrepreneurship development and agro-industry business opportunities. The collaboration also covers banking services, supply chain development, and corporate social responsibility programmes.

Global Investing Platform XTB Marks New Growth Phase in Indonesia

XTB, a Warsaw-listed global investing platform, has launched CFD trading in Indonesia after securing approval from BAPPEBTI, expanding its product range beyond US stocks and ETFs. The company reported a 741.51% increase in funded accounts in Indonesia during the first half of 2026, driven by a young, digitally connected population seeking regulated access to international markets. XTB Indonesia operates under the supervision of BAPPEBTI, OJK, and Bank Indonesia, positioning itself to capitalise on rising retail investor demand across Southeast Asia.

Despite Global Crisis, Sales of This Brand's ACs and TVs Remain Profitable

Samsung Electronics' consumer electronics and home appliances division posted an operating loss in the second quarter of 2026, while rival LG Electronics recorded a significant operating profit from a similar revenue base. LG's resilience is attributed to its premium product portfolio, cost reduction measures, and operational efficiency amid macroeconomic pressures and aggressive competition from Chinese manufacturers.

Lampung's PM AAS target reaches 35,100 hectares in 2026

Lampung Province has been set a target of implementing the Advanced Agriculture System (PM AAS) modern farming programme across 35,100 hectares by December 2026. The programme, a national government priority, will be rolled out in 15 regencies and cities across the province. Officials estimate average production of 10 tonnes per hectare could generate revenue of Rp65 million per season.

House Fire in Paseban, Central Jakarta: 115 Firefighters Deployed

A residential building in Paseban, Senen, Central Jakarta caught fire on Thursday evening, prompting a large-scale response from the Jakarta Fire and Rescue Service. More than 100 firefighters and 23 fire engines were deployed to tackle the blaze and prevent it from spreading to nearby homes. The cause of the fire and whether there were any casualties remain unknown.

Authority Unveils Plans to Drive Nusantara Economic Super Hub

The Nusantara Capital City Authority (OIKN) is preparing to offer investment opportunities for the Nusantara Economic Super Hub, an integrated economic ecosystem linking the new capital with Balikpapan, Samarinda, and other parts of East Kalimantan. The initiative forms part of the broader IKN development strategy, positioning the new capital as a growth centre rather than a competitor to Jakarta. Investment in IKN has reached Rp 208.76 trillion, with foreign investors from China, South Korea, and the UAE now entering the realisation phase.

Sleman Regent Harda Kiswaya Receives Koperasi Awards 2026

Sleman Regent Harda Kiswaya has been honoured with the Bakti Koperasi Nayaka Mahambara award at the Koperasi Awards 2026, recognising his contribution to the cooperative movement. The event, organised by detikcom and the Ministry of Cooperatives, celebrated figures who have advanced cooperatives as part of Indonesia's people's economy. The awards also highlighted the legacy of Bung Hatta and current government programmes such as the Koperasi Desa/Kelurahan Merah Putih.

Gibran and the Yellow-Wrapped Baby in the Emergency Tent at TC Hillers Hospital Maumere

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka visited TC Hillers Regional Hospital in Sikka, East Nusa Tenggara, to inspect emergency care facilities following the earthquake that struck the region. During the visit, he held a newborn baby in the emergency tent and instructed hospital officials to improve the tent's covering to ensure basic comfort for mothers and infants. The visit formed part of a broader government effort to assess damage and coordinate post-disaster recovery across the affected areas.

Senior Kiai Issue Moral Appeal Ahead of 35th NU Congress

Senior Nahdlatul Ulama clerics have issued a seven-point moral appeal calling for the 35th NU Congress to be conducted with integrity, honesty and dignity. The appeal, delivered after a forum at the PBNU headquarters in Jakarta, expresses concern over worrying developments and unworthy tactics ahead of the congress. The clerics emphasised that the Ahlul Halli wal Aqdi mechanism must remain free from external interference or vested interests.

Balikpapan Fire Destroys 11 Homes

A fire swept through a densely populated residential area on Jalan Dahor II in West Balikpapan, East Kalimantan, on Thursday, destroying an estimated 11 homes. The Balikpapan Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) said narrow access lanes and wooden building materials hampered firefighting efforts. No casualties have been reported so far, with cooling operations still under way.

Alasmalang Residents Turn Durian Peel Waste into Economically Valuable Products

Villagers in Alasmalang, Banyumas, Central Java, have developed a programme to convert durian peel waste into fibre, snacks and other saleable goods. The initiative, supported by the local government, Jenderal Soedirman University and Pertamina, addresses a long-standing environmental problem while creating new income streams. Products include cushion filling, key chains, planting media, oil absorbents, crisps and dodol.

Jakarta Regional-Owned Enterprises Raise Aid for NTT Earthquake Victims

Regional-owned enterprises (BUMD) in Jakarta have mobilised Rp1.11 billion in cash donations and other relief supplies for victims of the earthquake in Nusa Tenggara Timur. The aid, coordinated with the national disaster management system, includes water treatment equipment, food, and medical supplies. The total value of assistance dispatched by the Jakarta provincial government is estimated at Rp5.85 billion.

Minister Ferry: Cooperative Success Must Also Be Measured by Benefits to Society

Cooperatives and SMEs Minister Ferry Juliantono has called for a return to the founding spirit of Bung Hatta, arguing that cooperative success should be judged by tangible benefits to the public rather than organisational size alone. Speaking at the Koperasi Awards 2026, he highlighted the government's priority programme to establish Koperasi Desa/Kelurahan Merah Putih across Indonesia. The minister also urged the cooperative movement to modernise so it can stand alongside state-owned and private enterprises in strengthening the national economy.

Public benefits from scheduled land measurement for certification

Indonesia's Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency has rolled out scheduled land measurement services at 446 land offices nationwide. Citizens report faster processing times and greater certainty over when their land will be surveyed. The programme is part of broader efforts to improve land registration services and encourage certification of uncertified land.

Malang Regency Welcomes Beiersdorf Investment to Strengthen Industrial and Economic Growth

The Malang Regency Government has welcomed the inauguration of PT Beiersdorf Indonesia's new Production Center in Singosari, viewing it as a catalyst for regional industrial growth and community welfare. Deputy Regent Lathifah Shohib highlighted the expected multiplier effects, including job creation, workforce upskilling, and opportunities for local SMEs. The investment aligns with the regency's 2025-2029 development plan focused on inclusive economic growth.

DPR urges Forestry Ministry to tackle Kalimantan forest fires before they spread

A senior lawmaker has called on the Ministry of Forestry to take immediate, coordinated action against forest and land fires in Kalimantan, warning that El Niño could worsen drought and fire risk. The appeal follows a sharp deterioration in air quality in Palangka Raya, where the Air Quality Index reached a hazardous 487 and visibility dropped to around 1.4 kilometres.

Nuclear energy potential 'dark horse' for net-zero target: DEN

Indonesia's National Energy Council now views nuclear power as a key accelerator for reaching net-zero emissions, shifting away from its previous 'last resort' status. The government has integrated a 500 MW nuclear roadmap into PLN's 2025–2034 electricity plan, with initial capacity expected online by 2032. BRIN has identified 28 potential plant sites, prioritising West Kalimantan and Bangka Belitung, as the country seeks to meet rising industrial energy demand.

Business Legality Becomes Foundation of Good Corporate Governance

BrightMinds Legal, a platform founded by legal practitioner Handika Faqih Nugroho, is promoting the view that business legality extends beyond administrative compliance to form a core pillar of good corporate governance. The firm offers legal assistance and education services to help companies integrate legal considerations into their business strategy from the outset. This approach aims to help businesses anticipate risks, strengthen decision-making, and build sustainable operations.

Dari Saham AS ke Emas, XTB Indonesia Perluas Pilihan Produk lewat CFD

PT XTB Indonesia Berjangka has launched CFD trading on commodities including gold, silver, oil, palladium and natural gas after receiving regulatory approval from BAPPEBTI. The new offering complements its existing range of over 650 US stocks and global ETFs, allowing users to access both long-term investment and short-term trading instruments on a single platform. The launch follows rapid growth in Indonesia, with funded accounts rising 741.51% in H1 2026 compared to H2 2025, reflecting growing demand among Indonesian investors for global market access and portfolio diversification.

Netanyahu Increasingly 'Reckless' Before Trump, Brazenly Attacks NATO Ally

Israel's airstrike on a Syrian military base hosting Turkish delegates has escalated tensions between Benjamin Netanyahu and Donald Trump, drawing sharp criticism from both Ankara and Washington. The incident highlights a growing divergence in US and Israeli policy towards Syria and Turkey, with Trump favouring de-escalation and engagement with Ankara. Regional powers are responding by accelerating new security alignments, including the so-called 'Mecca Pact' between Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan.

East Java BPBD prepares water bombing to extinguish Arjuno-Welirang forest fires

The East Java Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) is preparing a water bombing operation to tackle forest and land fires on the slopes of Mount Arjuno and Mount Welirang. Helicopter operations have been hampered by weather conditions, with the aircraft on standby at Kaliandra Field. Ground teams are currently using manual firefighting methods while coordination continues with local agencies.

Eggs at Rp 39,000 and MinyaKita at Rp 15,700: Mataram's Cheap Market Swamped by Shoppers

A series of low-cost markets in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, generated around Rp 300 million in transactions ahead of the Prophet Muhammad's birthday celebrations. Residents flocked to the markets to secure staple goods such as eggs, cooking oil and rice at prices significantly below traditional market rates. The initiative was organised across six densely populated sub-districts to ease the burden of rising food prices.

The Dudas Minus One Plan Asia Tour with Education and Migrant Worker Advocacy Mission

Indonesian celebrity motorcycle group The Dudas Minus One, whose members include Raffi Ahmad and Ariel NOAH, have announced plans for a cross-country tour of Asia. The group says the journey will combine cultural diplomacy, tourism study, and advocacy for Indonesian migrant workers. Raffi Ahmad, who serves as a special presidential envoy, said the tour aims to expand friendship networks and deliver tangible benefits to the public.

NTT Governor Receives Bakti Koperasi Nayaka Mahambara Award

East Nusa Tenggara Governor Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena has been honoured with the Bakti Koperasi Nayaka Mahambara award at the 2026 Koperasi Awards for his support of cooperative development in the province. The event, organised by the Ministry of Cooperatives and detikcom, recognised officials and individuals contributing to the strengthening of cooperatives as a people's economic movement. Minister Ferry Juliantono emphasised that cooperatives embody the principles of togetherness and mutual assistance championed by Indonesia's founding figures.

Bali Risks Drought In Top Tourism Destinations: Here’s What Tourists Need To Know

The Bali provincial government is implementing anticipatory measures, including clean water distribution and agricultural irrigation support, as the island faces an increasingly extreme dry season and rising drought risk. Over 529 families have been affected and 305,000 litres of water distributed so far, with authorities coordinating across agencies to mitigate impacts on communities and tourism areas. Tourists are advised to be mindful of water consumption, particularly in drought-prone northern, eastern and western regions.

21 Regional Leaders Receive Bakti Koperasi Nayaka Mahambara at Koperasi Awards 2026

Twenty-one regional leaders have been recognised at the Koperasi Awards 2026 for their contributions to accelerating the establishment of Koperasi Desa/Kelurahan Merah Putih and developing cooperatives in their regions. The awards, organised by detikcom and the Ministry of Cooperatives, honour state officials who have provided broad support for the cooperative movement. The event highlights the government's priority programme to strengthen the people's economy through cooperatives.

Estella joins Dewa United, Isabelle moves to Persikad

PSSI Executive Committee member Vivin Cahyani Sungkono has confirmed that Indonesian diaspora players Estella Loupatty and Isabelle Nottet will join Dewa United and Persikad Depok respectively for the 2026/27 Indonesia Women's League. The league returns after a seven-year hiatus with six participating clubs and a centralised triple round-robin format in Jakarta. Diaspora players are classified as foreign players in this inaugural edition, with the competition set to begin on 17 October.

Bekasi River Pollution Leads to Sanctions Against 4 Laundry Businesses in Bogor

The Ministry of Environment has sealed four laundry businesses in Bogor Regency suspected of causing pollution in the Bekasi River. The pollution has resulted in blackened water, extensive foam, and foul odours, prompting complaints from residents and disrupting clean water production by the regional water company. Authorities are continuing investigations and have not ruled out action against other parties.

BPJS Ketenagakerjaan Transforms Benefits into Productive Capital

BPJS Ketenagakerjaan has launched a national programme to convert social security payouts into productive capital for 1,426 beneficiaries. The Peka initiative provides training and mentoring in entrepreneurship, digital marketing, and other skills to help recipients build sustainable livelihoods. The programme aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's sixth Asta Cita goal of promoting economic equity and poverty reduction.

Deputy Social Affairs Minister Invites Banten Youth Organisation to Collaborate on Poverty Eradication

Deputy Social Affairs Minister Agus Jabo Priyono has called on Karang Taruna in Banten to support President Prabowo Subianto's priority programmes, particularly poverty eradication. Speaking at the inauguration of the Banten Provincial Karang Taruna board for 2026-2031, he highlighted initiatives such as Sekolah Rakyat, free nutritious meals, and village cooperatives. Banten Governor Andra Soni also urged the youth organisation to become a strategic partner in strengthening social welfare.

Slangit Village in Cirebon Faces Annual Clean Water Crisis

Around 1,700 households in Slangit Village, Cirebon Regency, experience severe clean water shortages every dry season due to the absence of natural water sources. The village has proposed drilling a 185-metre borehole to the local government, but the project remains unrealised, reportedly due to budget constraints. Police have distributed 6,000 litres of clean water along with food and milk as emergency relief.