Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 20 August 2026

Showing 251-300 of 1,593 articles

Pramono Releases Rp5.8 Billion in Jakarta Provincial Government Aid for NTT

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has dispatched Rp5.8 billion in aid for earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara, sourced from civil servants, regional agencies, municipal enterprises and Baznas DKI Jakarta. The assistance includes cash, food, mattresses, medical equipment, blankets, water tanks and other non-food items, sent by air and sea. Jakarta is the first regional government to send aid, with collections remaining open until 25 August.

Iran: Total US Economic War Will Backfire

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has dismissed President Donald Trump's 'Economic D-Day' campaign against Tehran as a doomed diversion from America's own fiscal troubles. Araghchi accused Washington of economic terrorism that threatens global stability and warned the policy would only deepen Iranian hostility towards the US.

Dual Citizenship Discourse Should Prioritise Children of Indonesian Descent

The Indonesian Mixed Marriage Society (Perca) has urged the government to prioritise children of Indonesian descent in its proposed dual citizenship policy. The organisation highlighted administrative hurdles faced by children of mixed marriages, including cases where individuals lost their Indonesian citizenship due to missed deadlines. Perca called for equal treatment between foreign talents and those with Indonesian blood ties.

Gibran conveys empathy and apologises to earthquake evacuees in NTT

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka visited earthquake evacuees in Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, expressing empathy and apologising for any shortcomings in the government's emergency response. He stressed that public safety and meeting urgent needs remain the top priority, with special attention required for vulnerable groups. The Vice President assured residents that the state would continue to support them through the emergency phase and subsequent recovery.

Viral Armed Teen Brawl in Cileungsi, 5 Perpetrators Arrested

Police in Cileungsi, Bogor Regency, have arrested five students following a viral video showing an armed brawl involving teenagers on Jalan Kampung Kubang. The incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon and involved junior high school students from Bekasi and Cikarang. Authorities are continuing their investigation at the Cileungsi police station.

East Java BPBD: One hotspot remains in Mount Arjuno fire

The East Java Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) reports that two of three fire locations on Mount Arjuno have been extinguished, with one remaining hotspot inaccessible to ground teams. Thick fog and the remote location of the final fire point in Prigen, Pasuruan Regency, are hampering both ground and aerial firefighting efforts.

Sophisticated! Pleret Bantul Creates Modern Farming, Watering and Fertilising Crops Assisted by AI

Kalurahan Pleret in Bantul has launched an integrated farming system using Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence to automate crop watering and fertilising. The pilot project on half a hectare of land aims to attract younger generations and existing farmers by demonstrating the benefits of technology-driven agriculture. The initiative is funded through the Special Autonomy Fund (Danais) via the Desa Mandiri Budaya special financial assistance scheme.

Rice Production Disruptions Loom Over North Sumatra Until Early 2027

North Sumatra is expected to face rice shortages and price increases until the first quarter of 2027 due to the prolonged El Nino phenomenon. Despite a projected peak harvest in September and October, local supply is unlikely to meet demand through February or Idulfitri. An economist has urged swift government intervention and better data governance to mitigate the risk to regional food security.

Iran Responds to Trump's 'Most Devastating' Sanctions: Economic Terrorism

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has dismissed US President Donald Trump's newly announced 'Economic D-Day' campaign as a diversion from America's own fiscal crisis. Araghchi warned that continuing failed policies would only deepen Iranian hostility towards Washington. He described the US measures as economic terrorism threatening the global economy and the sovereignty of other nations.

USU strengthens position as globally competitive university

Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU) has entered the 401–600 band in the THE Impact Rankings 2026, marking a significant milestone in its transformation towards global competitiveness. The university reported substantial growth in student achievements, accredited study programmes, doctoral faculty, and research funding. USU is also directing research towards societal needs, including soybean variety development and B-50 fuel testing for energy resilience.

DEN member: Rapid power restoration after NTT earthquake accelerates community recovery

National Energy Council member M Kholid Syeirazi has praised the swift restoration of electricity in East Nusa Tenggara following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake, noting that all affected substations were back online within 12 hours. He emphasised that rapid power recovery is essential for hospitals, public services and disaster posts to resume operations. The achievement, he said, should inform national energy resilience planning for future natural disasters.

Batang Strengthens Role as New Industrial Growth Centre

The Batang Industropolis Special Economic Zone is enhancing its corporate communications strategy to position itself as a future industrial hub, earning recognition at the PR of The Year 2026 awards. The zone's programmes, including 'The Shenzhen of Indonesia' and PRIMA, aim to build stakeholder trust and highlight its contribution to national industrial growth. The 4,300-hectare zone in Central Java is being developed as a competitive, integrated, and sustainable investment ecosystem.

270 students at Jepara's Sekolah Rakyat begin school orientation

A total of 270 students from underprivileged families have begun their school orientation at the newly built Sekolah Rakyat Terpadu in Jepara, Central Java. The programme, aimed at children from the poorest households, is part of a national initiative with 166 pilot schools across 34 provinces. Officials expressed optimism that the state-funded facilities will help lift families out of poverty through quality education.

120 PPSU workers donate blood in Kembangan, West Jakarta

A total of 120 public infrastructure workers and RPTRA managers in Kembangan sub-district participated in a blood donation drive at Al Hikmah Mosque, collecting 78 bags of blood. The initiative was a collaboration between the Indonesian Red Cross, Democare, and local community organisations. Officials expressed hope that such social welfare activities would continue regularly to help meet Jakarta's blood supply needs.

Reviewing Sikka Earthquake, Vice President Gibran Calls for Response Without Bureaucratic Barriers

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has urged that basic needs fulfilment be the top priority in post-disaster handling during a visit to earthquake-affected Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. He instructed regional leaders and the Forkopimda to go directly to the field and ensure aid reaches all residents, including those in hard-to-access mountainous areas. Gibran stressed that bureaucracy must not hinder emergency response and said he would report all developments and obstacles directly to the President.

Wuling Aira EV 2026: Specifications and Prices

Wuling has launched the Aira EV at GIIAS 2026, positioning it as one of the most affordable electric vehicles in the Indonesian market. The model is offered in Standard Range and Long Range variants, priced at Rp155 million and Rp175 million respectively. Both variants feature DC fast charging, a notable inclusion for EVs in this price segment.

Eight Recipients of the 2026 Cooperative Awards in the Bakti Koperasi Makarti Guna Swasembada Category

The 2026 Cooperative Awards, held by detikcom and the Ministry of Cooperatives, has announced eight recipients in the Bakti Koperasi Makarti Guna Swasembada category. The award recognises cooperative figures whose tangible activities and operations have successfully fostered economic self-reliance. The event also highlighted the government's priority programme, Koperasi Desa/Kelurahan Merah Putih, as part of the broader people's economy movement.

MSIG Life Prioritises Individual Customer Death Claims

PT MSIG Life Insurance Indonesia Tbk paid out Rp 545 billion in health and death claims during the first half of 2026, with 55% of individual death claims occurring among those of productive age. The company highlighted its strong Risk Based Capital ratio of 1,382% and introduced the Smile Wealth Protection product with premium waiver benefits. A beneficiary received Rp 1.27 billion, demonstrating the company's commitment to responsive claim processing.

Barantin: MSME mentoring improves Indonesia's export quality

Indonesia's Quarantine Agency (Barantin) is stepping up mentoring for micro, small and medium enterprises to help them meet international export standards. The agency plans to map high-potential commodities, provide training, and consolidate smaller businesses under larger parent companies to integrate them into export supply chains. The initiative aims to boost the competitiveness of national commodities and expand access to global markets.

Lippo General Insurance posts Rp2.32 trillion revenue in first half

PT Lippo General Insurance Tbk (LPGI) reported a 33.9 percent year-on-year increase in revenue to Rp2.32 trillion for the first half of 2026, with pre-tax profit rising 10.2 percent to Rp130.5 billion. The company also secured an A– (Excellent) financial strength rating from AM Best, reinforcing its strong financial position. LPGI is now under majority ownership of Hanwha General Insurance, which is expected to support its growth and digital transformation ambitions.

Minister Ferry Juliantono and Chairul Tanjung Attend 2026 Cooperative Awards

The 2026 Cooperative Awards brought together senior government officials and business leaders to recognise individuals and institutions contributing to the development of Indonesia's cooperative movement. The event, held in Jakarta, featured six award categories aimed at strengthening the cooperative ecosystem and inspiring further progress across the regions. It was organised by the Ministry of Cooperatives with detikcom and supported by major state-owned enterprises.

APEC advances safe genome technologies for food security

APEC economies are promoting agricultural biotechnology, including gene editing and synthetic biology, to strengthen food security and address climate change. Delegates at a high-level dialogue in Dalian highlighted advances such as drought-tolerant crops and rice with lower glycemic indexes, while stressing the need for science-based, case-by-case regulations and public education to overcome consumer scepticism. The discussions set the stage for the APEC Food Security Ministerial Meeting in Hangzhou in August.

Aceh distributes 50,000 Qurans from Saudi Arabia to disaster-affected areas

The Aceh provincial government has distributed 50,000 Qurans donated by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to disaster-affected areas across the province. The religious texts are intended for mosques, prayer rooms, Islamic boarding schools, and the general public as part of the region's recovery efforts. Officials emphasised that post-disaster recovery must address both physical reconstruction and the spiritual wellbeing of affected communities.

Japan's 'Ice Age' Generation: Working Through Crisis, Retiring on Thin Wallets

Japan's 'ice age' generation, who entered the workforce between 1993 and 2004 after the economic bubble burst, continue to face lower wages and weaker job security decades later. An estimated 17-20 million people in their 40s and 50s remain trapped in non-regular employment or lagging pay, even as Japan's economy recovers. Their struggles highlight the long-term scarring effects of economic crises on career progression, savings, and retirement prospects.

NTB has the capital to be a national clean energy transition pioneer

West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) possesses strong renewable energy potential, including geothermal, hydro, and solar resources, positioning it as a potential pioneer in Indonesia's clean energy transition. National Energy Council members highlighted that renewables already account for 25.07 percent of the province's energy mix. They urged greater collaboration with universities and other sectors to optimise these resources and strengthen energy security.

DIY Government Aligns Data with BPS Following Desil Classification Changes

The Yogyakarta Special Region (DIY) administration is working to align its regional poverty data with the central government's updated desil welfare classification system. Regional Secretary Ni Made Dwi Panti Indrayanti emphasised that the desil determination is a central government authority, while DIY's integrated poverty data provides more detailed local insights. The Statistics Indonesia (BPS) office explained that the National Socio-Economic Data (DTSEN) integrates multiple data sources and is updated quarterly, with desil positions reflecting relative welfare rather than absolute income labels.

IPB Expert Reveals Facts About Mixing Eucalyptus Oil with Petrol for Fuel Efficiency

An IPB University expert has cautioned against viral social media claims that adding eucalyptus oil to petrol improves fuel efficiency. Leopold Oscard Nelwan stated there is no adequate scientific evidence that adding small amounts of commercial eucalyptus oil to standard vehicle tanks consistently boosts efficiency. He also warned of potential risks including deposit formation and long-term engine component damage.

Indonesia's Anti-Colonial Solidarity for Palestine Reaffirmed at University of Indonesia

The University of Indonesia has reaffirmed its support for Palestinian independence, framing it as part of Indonesia's consistent anti-colonial principles and the right of all nations to self-determination. The message was delivered during a book discussion and exhibition titled 'Towards Palestinian Liberation: Anti-Colonialism Solidarity from Indonesia for Palestine' held at FISIP UI. Speakers emphasised that solidarity must be built on knowledge and sustained beyond momentary sympathy.

Human Rights Ministry prepares 10-year projection for economic rights fulfilment

Indonesia's Ministry of Human Rights is developing a 10-year study and projection on the fulfilment of economic, social and cultural rights to strengthen government policy. The ministry says many such rights remain inadequately fulfilled and that the projection will map conditions and identify priority groups for short, medium and long-term action. The results are intended to feed into national development planning, including the long-term and medium-term national development plans.

Tabanan Police Chief Hands Over Wheelchair and Food Aid to Residents

Tabanan Police Chief AKBP I Putu Bayu Pati, together with the Tabanan branch of Bhayangkari, delivered a wheelchair, cash assistance, and basic food packages to residents in need in Dauh Peken, Tabanan, Bali. The initiative is presented as a tangible demonstration of the National Police's presence and concern for the community. The village head of Dauh Peken expressed appreciation and voiced hope for continued synergy between the police, village government, and residents.

Firefighters Spray Surabaya Roads to Combat Extreme Heat

Surabaya's fire department has begun spraying major asphalt roads with water to reduce extreme heat and dust during the dry season. The measure follows public complaints about scorching temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius and the appearance of mirages caused by expanding asphalt. Officials have also urged residents to use sunscreen and stay hydrated when outdoors.

Observer says illegal mining crackdown improves Indonesia's tin governance

A University of Indonesia state-owned enterprise observer says the crackdown on illegal tin mining and smuggling routes in Bangka Belitung is a key moment to improve national tin industry governance and strengthen PT Timah's performance. The company reported significant increases in production, sales, and profit in the first half of 2026. The observer stressed that success must be measured by higher state revenue, legalisation of community mining, and environmental restoration.

Police arrest suspect in assault of Navy member in Matraman

Police have arrested a man identified as R for his alleged involvement in the assault of an Indonesian Navy member in Utan Kayu Utara, Matraman, East Jakarta. The incident occurred on Monday morning when the victim's motorcycle collided with another rider, leading to the attack. The suspect is being held at the East Jakarta Metro Police and faces charges under Article 446 of the new Criminal Code.

PKS President: MSME Entrepreneurs Play a Role in Realising Public Welfare

Almuzzammil Yusuf, president of the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS), encouraged micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) entrepreneurs at the UMKM Summit 2026 to view their work as a contribution to social welfare. He emphasised that entrepreneurial activity not only builds personal financial independence but also serves the surrounding community. Yusuf urged participants to broaden their intentions in line with the teachings of Imam Al Ghazali.

Government boosts family incomes through Zakat Community Development

The Ministry of Population and Family Development (Kemendukbangga/BKKBN) has partnered with the National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) to help small family businesses increase their income through the Zakat Community Development (ZCD) programme. The initiative targets UPPKA groups, particularly family planning acceptors, providing funding and business mentoring to overcome difficulties in accessing conventional financing. Beneficiaries in South Sumatra and Central Java have reported increased confidence, independence, and improved household finances.

Surabaya City Government Targets Rp43 Trillion Investment in 2026, Strengthens Digital Services

The Surabaya city government is aiming for investment realisation of Rp43 trillion in 2026, up from around Rp35-36 trillion in previous years. To achieve this, it is strengthening digital licensing services, including the use of artificial intelligence, and providing an Investment Clinic to assist investors. The innovations are being verified by the Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming/BKPM as part of the 2026 Investment Service Award assessment.

From Post to Post, PNM Distributes Aid for NTT Earthquake Victims

State-owned enterprise PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) has mobilised its PNM Peduli programme to deliver emergency aid to communities affected by the earthquake in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. The company has confirmed the safety of 792 employees and is distributing tailored assistance, including food, hygiene supplies, and baby necessities, across multiple evacuation posts. PNM is also monitoring the longer-term recovery needs of its Mekaar microfinance customers whose businesses have been disrupted.

ASDP deploys two ferries to aid post-earthquake recovery in NTT

State-owned ferry operator PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry has deployed two vessels to support post-earthquake recovery efforts in East Nusa Tenggara. The ferries are transporting personnel, vehicles, heavy equipment and relief supplies free of charge to affected areas. The company says maritime connectivity is playing a strategic role in ensuring aid reaches communities in need.

Bank BSN Posts 40% Profit Growth to Rp643.6 Billion in First Year of Operations

PT Bank Syariah Nasional (Bank BSN) reported a gross profit of Rp643.6 billion for the first seven months of 2026, up 40% year-on-year, with assets rising 22.2% to Rp81.1 trillion. The growth was driven by a 25.7% increase in financing to Rp62 trillion and a 14.8% rise in third-party funds to Rp64.1 trillion. Bank BSN, formed through the spin-off of BTN's sharia unit and the integration of Bank Victoria Syariah, aims to become Indonesia's second-largest sharia bank.

Toyota Secures 6,175 SPKs at GIIAS 2026, Electrified Vehicles Contribute 56 Percent

PT Toyota-Astra Motor recorded 6,175 vehicle orders during the 11-day Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show 2026, with electrified vehicles accounting for 56 percent of total bookings. The Kijang Innova family led sales with 2,221 units, including 1,669 Innova Zenix Hybrid EVs. Toyota highlighted the result as evidence of growing consumer acceptance of its multi-pathway electrification strategy in Indonesia.

Dual Citizenship Policy Could Strengthen Indonesia's Competitiveness Amid Global Competition

The Indonesian Mixed-Marriage Association (PerCa Indonesia) has welcomed the government's plan to introduce selective dual citizenship for foreign nationals with talent and contributions to Indonesia. The organisation urges a comprehensive review to ensure the policy is grounded in fairness, legal certainty, and national interest. It also calls for equal treatment of Indonesian citizens and children of mixed marriages in the reform.

Finance Minister Purbaya Evaluates FTAs to Pursue 6 Percent Economic Growth

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa is conducting a thorough evaluation of Indonesia's free trade agreements to unlock new economic potential and drive growth. The ministry will adopt a new approach from September, targeting a minimum growth rate of 6 percent by the end of 2026. The strategy includes mapping industries by real impact, supporting high-potential sectors like data centres, and leveraging renewable energy to boost export competitiveness.

Video: 2026 Economic Census Records the Pulse of Indonesia's Economy

The Central Statistics Agency (BPS) of Kudus Regency is mapping the foundations of the national economy through the 2026 Economic Census. The census captures all non-agricultural activity, from micro-scale enterprises in residential alleys and the Jenang Mubarok SME centre to manufacturing giants Djarum and Sukun. The data will serve as a precise basis for policy direction and investment navigation in Indonesia over the next decade.

Lampung PAUD Chair Urges Parents to Model Healthy Living for Children

Purnama Wulan Sari Mirza, Bunda PAUD of Lampung Province, has called on parents and teachers to instil healthy habits in children from an early age through consistent role modelling. Speaking at a mass exercise event in Bandar Lampung, she emphasised that physical activity, nutrition, and adequate rest must be balanced to support children's development. She also praised the government's Free Nutritious Meals programme and highlighted the role of early childhood educators in nurturing the golden age of child development.

Gibran Apologises for Shortcomings in NTT Earthquake Response

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming has apologised to communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, acknowledging that the emergency response still has shortcomings. During a visit to evacuation shelters in Sikka Regency, he stressed that public safety and meeting urgent needs must be the top priority. The death toll from the disaster has risen to 75, according to the National Disaster Management Agency.

Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X Launches Guidebook for Yogyakarta-Specific Education

Governor of the Special Region of Yogyakarta, Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X, has officially launched a guidebook for Yogyakarta-Specific Education (PKJ) at the higher education level. The initiative aims to ensure that scientific and technological progress remains aligned with the safety of the earth, justice, and human welfare. The Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Prof. Brian Yuliarto, welcomed the move as a positive step in integrating education, science, and culture.

KAI Daop 2 Prepares Over 60,000 Seats for Long Weekend

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) Operational Area 2 Bandung has prepared 60,717 long-distance train seats to accommodate passengers during the extended Prophet Muhammad's birthday holiday. The seats are available across 24 regular departures from various stations in the Daop 2 Bandung region. KAI has emphasised its commitment to safety, security, comfort, and punctuality, while urging passengers to plan ahead and purchase tickets through official channels.

China's New 'Treasure Trove' Worth Over Rp 3,000 Trillion

China's artificial intelligence industry has surpassed 1.2 trillion yuan (approximately Rp 3,166 trillion) in market value in 2025, marking a 40% year-on-year increase. The country now hosts over 6,600 AI companies, representing about 15% of the global total. The China Academy of Information and Communications Technology is drafting new industry standards to regulate the rapidly expanding sector.

PNM Bergerak Distributes Aid and Assists Earthquake Victims in NTT

State-owned enterprise PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) has mobilised its PNM Peduli programme to deliver emergency aid to communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The company has distributed hundreds of aid packages worth millions of rupiah across multiple evacuation sites, while also monitoring the welfare of its employees and customers. PNM has committed to supporting affected communities beyond the emergency phase, including helping its Mekaar customers resume their business activities.

Surabaya DPRD supports low-income rusunami in three areas

The Surabaya Regional House of Representatives has backed Mayor Eri Cahyadi's plan to build low-cost vertical housing for low-income residents. Deputy Speaker Bahtiyar Rifai said the scheme would help residents who currently have to buy homes outside the city. Three locations have been earmarked: Ngagel, Tambak Wedi and Sememi.