Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 21 August 2026

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Indonesian Embassy in Bern supports Kadin-Suissenegoce partnership to train trade human resources

The Indonesian Embassy in Bern has backed a partnership between the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) and Swiss commodity trading association Suissenegoce to develop national human resources in global commodity trading. The agreement, signed in Geneva, marks 75 years of Indonesia-Switzerland bilateral relations and follows high-level ministerial visits. The programme will offer certified training in Jakarta to private and state-owned enterprises to boost export revenues.

Logging traces found amid forest and land fires in Batang Hari

Forest and land fires in Tenam, Batang Hari Regency, Jambi, entered their second day on Friday, with around four hectares already burned. Firefighters from Manggala Agni and TNI soldiers discovered charred remains of felled timber at the site, indicating logging activity had occurred before the blaze. Authorities have not yet established whether the logging is linked to the cause of the fires.

Indonesian Embassy in Dakar pushes stronger ASEAN-West Africa partnership

The Indonesian Embassy in Dakar led ASEAN diplomatic missions in Senegal in commemorating the bloc's 59th anniversary, using the occasion to advance strategic cooperation with West Africa. The event brought together Senegalese ministers and representatives of ASEAN dialogue partners to agree on priority areas including capacity-building, technology exchange, and stronger economic ties.

Canada-US intensify trade talks ahead of tariff deadline

Canada and the United States are racing to finalise a trade agreement before a midnight deadline that would see 50 percent tariffs imposed on C$30 billion worth of Canadian goods. Negotiators are reportedly close to a deal that would halve US tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminium to 25 percent. Canada must address US concerns over automotive taxes, dairy market access, and provincial bans on American alcohol sales.

El Nino impact: Panama Canal reduces daily ship transits

The Panama Canal Authority will cut daily vessel transits in two stages from September due to low rainfall and a potentially severe El Nino, raising concerns over water availability. The restrictions come as global shipping already faces disruption from the war in Iran, which has sharply reduced traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. The canal is a vital route for international trade, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.

North Tapanuli DPRD Urges Regional Government to Disclose Regional Transfer Fund Details in Revised Budget Talks

Members of the North Tapanuli Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) are pressing the district government to disclose the allocation of Regional Transfer Funds (TKD) during discussions on the 2026 Revised Regional Budget. Lawmakers argue that transparency is essential for the council to carry out its oversight function, particularly given that parts of the region are still recovering from disasters. The government has cited a Home Affairs Ministry circular as the basis for its handling of the funds, but councillors insist the details must be presented before the revised budget is approved.

KPK Displays Evidence of Hundreds of Millions in Cash During Sting Operation Against Unsoed Rector and Others

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has presented evidence of approximately Rp665 million in cash and Rp99 million in bank balances seized during a sting operation targeting the Rector of Jenderal Soedirman University and five other suspects. The case involves alleged extortion and gratification in the university's independent student admission process. The KPK has detained all six suspects for an initial 20-day period.

Asbanda: Role of Regional Development Banks Must Be Strengthened as Pillars of Regional Development

The Association of Regional Development Banks (Asbanda) is urging the government to strengthen the role of Regional Development Banks (BPD) as key drivers of regional economic development. Chairman Agus Haryoto Widodo called for a level playing field, noting that BPD liquidity is closely tied to regional fiscal cycles and government fund transfers. With combined assets exceeding Rp1,000 trillion, Asbanda is pushing for digital transformation and policy changes to enhance BPD competitiveness and regional financial resilience.

Unsoed Vice-Rector Extorted Rp 650 Million from Medical Faculty Fresher's Parents, but Student Still Failed

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named the Rector and Vice-Rector III of Universitas Soedirman as suspects in an alleged extortion case involving new student admissions. The Vice-Rector allegedly demanded Rp 650 million from the parents of a prospective medical faculty student, but the student was ultimately not accepted. The case has expanded to include six suspects, including university staff and private intermediaries.

Pamekasan Regency Government deploys six tanker trucks for clean water aid

The Pamekasan Regency Government in East Java has deployed six tanker trucks to distribute clean water to drought-affected villages this dry season. A total of 82 villages across 11 sub-districts are experiencing water shortages, an increase from 76 villages in 2025. The government is also drilling wells in cooperation with the central government through the PAMSIMAS programme.

Unsoed sting operation: KPK names rector and five others as suspects

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named the rector of Jenderal Soedirman University and five other individuals as suspects in an alleged corruption case involving new student admissions. The suspects include senior university officials, private parties, and a relative of the rector. They have been detained for an initial 20-day period following a sting operation in Purwokerto and Jakarta.

Tourism Ministry Releases 2025 Statistics for Ten Priority Tourism Destinations

Indonesia's Tourism Ministry has published its 2025 statistics for ten priority and three regenerative tourism destinations under the One Data Indonesia policy. The report tracks arrivals, investment, employment, and regional economic output, with Bali recording 7.04 million foreign visitors and Greater Jakarta attracting IDR 23.74 trillion in tourism investment. Officials say the standardised data will guide more effective, evidence-based tourism policy and ensure public spending delivers measurable economic benefits.

MSME Minister Encourages Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers to Become Micro-Entrepreneurs, Here Are the Business Opportunities

Indonesia's Minister for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, Maman Abdurrahman, is urging online motorcycle taxi drivers to be recognised as micro-entrepreneurs in the transport sector, framing the move as part of a 'levelling up' concept that expands opportunities rather than requiring drivers to abandon their profession. The initiative highlights collaboration with platforms such as GrabAcademy, with data showing thousands of drivers transitioning into food merchants, four-wheeled services, and creative roles. The minister stressed that while stakeholders can open access to learning and business development, individual initiative remains key to progress.

Minister Pigai urges acceleration of human rights protection regulation discussions

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has called for faster processing of proposed regulations to strengthen his ministry's authority in protecting and fulfilling human rights. He argues that without clear legal foundations, the ministry cannot take concrete action such as sanctioning companies or providing humanitarian assistance. The proposals have been submitted to the House of Representatives, the State Secretariat Ministry, and the Law Ministry.

Kowani strengthens food security with first sorghum harvest in Bogor

The Indonesian Women's Congress (Kowani) has harvested its first sorghum crop in Bogor as part of efforts to bolster national food security. The initiative aims to integrate production, processing, women's empowerment, and market access, with plans to develop value-added products such as rica roa chilli paste for export to Singapore and Malaysia.

KPK Detains Unsoed Rector as Suspect in Student Admission Extortion Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained the Rector of Jenderal Soedirman University and five others for 20 days over alleged extortion and gratification in the university's independent student admission process. The suspects are accused of imposing additional fees beyond the official tuition and institutional development charges, placing a heavy burden on prospective students. The KPK seized approximately Rp665 million in cash and Rp99 million in bank balances during the operation.

KUA-PPAS amendment agreed, Bobby calls for accelerated development

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution has urged faster implementation of physical and non-physical development projects after the provincial government and DPRD agreed on the KUA-PPAS amendment to the 2026 provincial budget. The agreement was formalised during a plenary session, with Bobby emphasising the need to avoid year-end bottlenecks. He is currently conducting field inspections across the province, including the Nias Islands, to ensure programmes remain on track.

RI reaffirms accelerated response to NTT quake, Kalimantan wildfires

The Indonesian government is intensifying its response to the NTT earthquake and Kalimantan wildfires, with ministers monitoring developments and Rp44 billion disbursed for earthquake relief. Fire suppression efforts have been prioritised due to El Niño conditions, with over 12,800 personnel deployed across Kalimantan to protect economic activity. Additional funding remains possible as authorities continue to evaluate conditions on the ground.

IMI DKI chairman candidate wants Jakarta to become national motorsport barometer

Rudy, a candidate for chairman of the Indonesian Motor Association (IMI) DKI Jakarta, has outlined plans to make Jakarta the national barometer for motorsport through high-standard events and sustainable athlete development. His proposals include building a semi-permanent circuit in Jakarta, possibly at JIS or PIK, in cooperation with the DKI Jakarta provincial government. Rudy's candidacy is supported by several prominent figures in the Indonesian motorsport community.

Shifana evaluates her team still playing too hastily

Indonesia's U-16 women's national team player Shifana Rizka Nadhifa has assessed that her side played too hastily in possession and finishing during their 3-0 semi-final victory over Jordan in the Srikandi Merdeka Cup 2026. Despite having a numerical advantage after Jordan were reduced to ten players, the team failed to add more goals due to a lack of simplicity in their play. Indonesia will face Thailand in the final on Sunday, with coach Timo Scheunemann viewing the match as a valuable test against a country with a strong women's football ecosystem.

Faunaland and Vantara Drive Improved Animal Welfare at Bandung Zoo

Faunaland, the new operator of Bandung Zoo, hosted a delegation from India's Vantara to review animal welfare and exchange conservation expertise. The visit included a veterinary assessment of Salma, a Sumatran elephant, and discussions on nutrition, habitat management and modern zoo practices. Faunaland aims to develop Bandung Zoo as a modern urban conservation and education space while strengthening its collaboration with Vantara.

Bandung Swelters: BMKG Explains Causes of Hot, Humid Weather

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. Maximum temperatures reached 32 degrees Celsius, with humidity levels between 55 and 80 percent. Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant during the dry season, particularly against land fires and drought, as over 400 sub-districts in West Java face water shortages.

Indonesia's Biochar Industry Urged to Strengthen Quality Standards and Certification

The Indonesian Biochar International Association (ABII) and IDSurvey have signed a memorandum of understanding to develop national biochar standards, laboratory infrastructure, and certification schemes. The collaboration aims to support the growth of the biochar industry, carbon removal, and climate-smart agriculture in Indonesia. Demand for Indonesian biochar is rising from markets including Japan and Saudi Arabia, making credible quality assurance essential for international competitiveness.

Jajar Village Strengthens Maize Downstreaming and Tourism Development

Jajar Village in Trenggalek, East Java, is advancing maize downstreaming and village tourism through a collaboration with UPN 'Veteran' Jawa Timur and Universitas Tulungagung. The third year of the government-backed village empowerment programme introduces popcorn and jenang maize processing technology to add value to raw maize sales. The initiative also expands tourism packages targeting school students after previous packages doubled visitor numbers.

Central Java and BSSN strengthen collaboration to improve cyber security

The Central Java Provincial Government is strengthening its collaboration with the National Cyber and Crypto Agency (BSSN) to enhance cyber security and support the implementation of digital government. Regional Secretary Sumarno emphasised that cyber security is a key challenge requiring joint efforts and broader stakeholder involvement. The partnership is expected to extend beyond the provincial level to include district and city governments across Central Java.

Unsoed Rector Akhmad Sodiq and Vice Rector Named Suspects After KPK Sting Operation

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named six suspects, including the rector and a vice rector of Jenderal Soedirman University, following a sting operation related to alleged extortion and gratification in the university's independent student admission process. The suspects are accused of imposing additional fees beyond the official tuition and institutional development charges, which placed a heavy burden on prospective students. The KPK has detained the suspects and expressed concern that corruption in the education sector undermines fairness and public trust in academic institutions.

Pati Mass Organisations Hold Joint Prayer, United in Maintaining Public Order

Various mass organisations in Pati Regency held a joint prayer and issued a collective statement calling for peace, security, and dignity in the region. The gathering emphasised commitment to constitutional expression of opinions while rejecting provocative, anarchic, or unethical actions that could divide society. Participants also urged residents to prioritise dialogue, respect the law, and avoid being provoked by unverified information.

KPK Names Unsoed Rector and Vice Rector as Suspects in New Student Admission Bribery Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named six suspects, including the rector and a vice rector of Universitas Jenderal Soedirman, in an alleged extortion scheme linked to new student admissions. The suspects are accused of demanding payments, reportedly amounting to hundreds of millions of rupiah, to secure places at the university's medical faculty. All six have been detained for an initial 20-day period.

"Hikayat Srikandi Nusantara" presented at Sabang Merauke Performance

The Sabang Merauke Performance titled "Hikayat Srikandi Nusantara" was held at Indonesia Arena in Jakarta, showcasing a colossal arts production that highlights the role of women and Indonesia's cultural heritage. The performance featured folk tales from across the archipelago, traditional textiles, dance and music, involving around 1,700 artists. Organisers hope the production can become a cultural tourism attraction for both domestic and international visitors.

Kaltara Police Chief strengthens TNI-Polri synergy on Malaysia border

North Kalimantan Police Chief Inspector General Agus Wijayanto has emphasised the importance of solid coordination between the Indonesian military and police in securing the Indonesia-Malaysia border. During a visit to border security personnel in Malinau, he highlighted the need for strong synergy to maintain stability and anticipate illegal cross-border activities. The visit included the handover of basic food packages and sports equipment as a show of support for troops serving in the frontier region.

Terang AI: Indonesian AI Has Ample Room to Grow, Especially in Education and Human Resources

Terang AI's Chief Product Officer Alfian Firmansyah has stated that artificial intelligence in Indonesia still has significant room for growth, particularly in the education and human resources sectors. Speaking at INTI ASIA 2026 in Jakarta, he emphasised that AI adoption must move beyond innovation to deliver practical solutions that are easy for companies and institutions to implement. The company showcased several business-to-business AI products at the event, including an AI Learning Management System, AI Candidate Interview, and AI Event Management.

Police Investigate Two Foreign Nationals for Sock Theft in Kerobokan, Badung

Police in Badung, Bali, are investigating the alleged theft of socks by two foreign nationals at a shop in Kerobokan Kelod. The incident, captured on CCTV, occurred on 16 August 2026 but only gained widespread attention after video circulated on social media. Authorities are coordinating with the Ngurah Rai Immigration Office to track down the suspects.

Full-time PPPK Teachers in Bandung Appreciate CPNS Selection Opportunity, but Question the Mechanism

A full-time government contract teacher (PPPK) in Bandung has welcomed the government and DPR's decision to allow PPPK teachers to participate in the 2027 civil servant (CPNS) selection. However, he expressed uncertainty about the selection mechanism, including whether PPPK teachers would be automatically appointed or still need to undergo testing. He also raised concerns about age limits and the large number of existing PPPK teachers nationwide.

Fire at Jakarta Bapenda Building, Fire Department: Small Flames Due to Hot Weather

A small fire broke out at the Jakarta Regional Revenue Agency (Bapenda) building on Friday evening, with the fire department attributing the incident to hot weather conditions. Smoke was visible from the lobby area around 5 p.m. local time, but no significant flames were observed by witnesses. Fire crews responded quickly and remained on site until approximately 9 p.m., with the smoke having dissipated by 9:55 p.m.

North Kalimantan Police deploy 40 personnel to tackle forest and land fires

The North Kalimantan Regional Police's Samapta Directorate has deployed 40 personnel to combat forest and land fires in Bulungan Regency. The team is working to extinguish fires across three locations covering approximately four hectares, facing difficult terrain and limited water access. Police are coordinating with local residents to monitor affected areas and prevent the fires from spreading further.

Indonesian Air Force deploys CASA aircraft to strengthen weather modification in West Kalimantan

The Indonesian Air Force has deployed a CASA A-2117 aircraft from Squadron 4 to support weather modification operations aimed at tackling forest and land fires in West Kalimantan. The aircraft, brought in from Abdulrachman Saleh Air Base in Malang, will be used for cloud seeding to increase rainfall. The move is part of an integrated effort involving air patrols, water bombing and inter-agency coordination to prevent and control fires.

Residents Scramble for Blanket Aid at Nagekeo Evacuation Post

Displaced residents at the Berdikari Danga field in Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara, scrambled for blankets distributed by the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) on Friday night, having waited five days for such supplies. Evacuees expressed relief at receiving blankets and mats, but noted that basic needs such as clean water, baby nappies and milk remain unmet. They urged the government to continue paying attention to their needs following the earthquake.

Ukhuwah Savings Grow 356.95 Percent, Himbarsi Expands Sharia Rural Bank Business

The Ukhuwah Savings programme developed by the Indonesian Sharia Rural Banks Association (Himbarsi) has recorded significant growth since its 2022 launch, with accounts reaching 55,908 and total funds of Rp417.8 billion by July 2026. Himbarsi is using this momentum to expand joint products and strengthen fund collection through five new partnerships agreed at its 2026 national coordination meeting in Solo. The partnerships involve three sharia commercial banks, a sharia insurance company, and a precious metals vendor.

BPBD: Forest and Land Fires on Mount Arjuno-Welirang Successfully Extinguished

Forest and land fires that swept through the Raden Soerjo Grand Forest Park on Mount Arjuno-Welirang in East Java have been fully extinguished, according to the provincial disaster mitigation agency. Ground teams continue to patrol for residual embers, while aerial water bombing was hampered by thick fog. Hiking routes in the conservation area remain closed until further notice.

KAMMI Rejects 27 August Protest Plan: For the Sake of Public Order

The Indonesian Muslim Student Action Union (KAMMI) has publicly rejected a planned protest by the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB) at the DPR RI building on 27 August 2026. KAMMI argues the demonstration risks provoking unrest and threatening state symbols, urging all parties to prioritise public order and national unity. The organisation also called for national focus to shift towards humanitarian missions amid ongoing disasters in NTT and Kalimantan.

High Gold Investment Interest Means Bullion Ecosystem Has Potential to Keep Growing

Indonesia's bullion ecosystem is expanding rapidly, with gold banks managing around 153 tonnes of gold worth Rp360 trillion since their 2025 launch. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto highlighted strong public demand for gold as a safe-haven asset and the government's push to develop gold-based investment instruments such as ETFs.

Badung DLHK Confirms Dozens of Incinerators Fully Operational After Passing Emission Tests

The Badung Regency Environmental and Hygiene Agency (DLHK) has confirmed that all 12 incinerator units at its waste processing sites are back in full operation after passing emission tests required by the Ministry of Environment's law enforcement division. The machines had previously been sealed but have now received approval to resume operations. The agency says all emission parameters met the required quality standards.

KAMMI urges AMPB protest at DPR to stay within legal boundaries

The Indonesian Muslim Student Action Union (KAMMI) has called on the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB) to avoid provocation and actions outside the law ahead of its planned protest at the House of Representatives (DPR) building. KAMMI affirmed its respect for the constitutional right to free expression but rejected any confrontational narratives that could damage state facilities or threaten national unity. The organisation also reiterated its support for anti-corruption efforts, including the passage of the Asset Forfeiture Bill.

Jakarta Stocks Rise as Balance of Payments Deficit Narrows

The Jakarta Composite Index gained 0.37% to 6,525 on Friday, buoyed by a sharply narrower balance of payments deficit and plans to scrap the minimum share price rule. Bank Indonesia reported the second-quarter deficit narrowed to $0.9 billion from $9.1 billion in the first quarter, while the stock exchange's proposed removal of the Rp 50 price floor aims to improve liquidity. Gains came despite global headwinds from Wall Street volatility, rising oil prices, and US-Iran tensions.

Is Suralaya Coal-Fired Power Plant Really the Cause of Air Pollution in Jakarta?

Energy policy observer Sofyano Zakaria has called for a comprehensive scientific study to determine whether the Suralaya coal-fired power plant in Banten is a significant contributor to air pollution in Jakarta. He urged the DKI Jakarta provincial government to provide transparent data, including emission measurements, wind patterns, and dispersion modelling, rather than relying on unsubstantiated claims. Zakaria emphasised that Jakarta's air pollution is a complex issue influenced by multiple sources, including vehicle emissions, industrial activity, and meteorological factors.

Prabowo Scheduled to Visit Nagekeo, Earthquake Victims Hope for Housing Assistance

President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to visit evacuation posts and inspect damaged facilities in Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara, following a recent earthquake. Displaced residents are hoping the visit will lead to assistance for rebuilding their destroyed homes, as well as repairs to schools, places of worship, and other public facilities. Evacuees have also reported shortages of basic food supplies, including cooking ingredients and vegetables.

Denpasar Immigration tracks Israeli-born foreigners for questioning

Denpasar Immigration has placed two Israeli-born foreign nationals on its wanted list for monitoring and investigation following a viral report about their removal from a Bali fitness centre. The individuals, who hold Bulgarian and Romanian passports, entered Indonesia in August 2026 and are being questioned alongside the fitness centre owner to establish the incident's chronology. Authorities have not yet determined whether any immigration violations occurred and will base any action on investigation findings and applicable laws.

Facing ASN Salary Constraints, 18 Regencies/Cities in Central Java Receive Rp268 Billion Injection from Central Government

The central government has disbursed an additional Rp268 billion in General Allocation Funds (DAU) and Revenue Sharing Funds (DBH) to 18 regencies and cities in Central Java to help cover civil servant salary payments. The funds, allocated through Finance Ministerial Decree 198 dated 5 August 2026, comprise Rp184 billion in DAU and Rp83 billion in DBH. The disbursement follows appeals from regional governments, including Central Java, to the Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Home Affairs regarding payroll shortfalls.

West Papua Police to escort food aid distribution to prevent resale

West Papua Regional Police will escort the distribution of 1,593 tonnes of rice food aid to prevent diversion or resale that harms beneficiaries. Police will work with the military and urge the public to report any irregularities. The rice covers the July, August and September periods, with 53,101 recipients across five districts receiving 30 kilograms each.

West Kalimantan Governor Speaks Out on Forest Fires, Issues Appeal to Residents

West Kalimantan Governor Ria Norsan has addressed the forest and land fires affecting the province, attributing them to a prolonged dry season and the El Niño phenomenon while acknowledging the role of land clearing by burning. He urged residents to stop the practice, report fires promptly, and wear masks outdoors. The Environment Ministry has issued urgent instructions to six governors, and the National Police Chief confirmed several suspects have been identified.

KAI Properti begins developing TOD housing in Manggarai

PT Kereta Api Indonesia's subsidiary KAI Properti has commenced construction of transit-oriented housing in Manggarai, Jakarta, with a groundbreaking ceremony attended by senior government officials. The development will provide 1,276 affordable housing units across two blocks, designed to integrate with public transport via nearby Manggarai Station. The project supports the government's housing programme and aims to improve urban mobility and access to mass transit.

Bulog CEO Ahmad Rizal earns doctorate from University of Indonesia

Perum Bulog President Director Ahmad Rizal Ramdhani has completed a doctoral programme in sustainable development at the University of Indonesia. He said the qualification would strengthen his leadership and the state-owned food company's role in national food security. Rizal also expressed his ambition for Bulog to become a professional national logistics orchestrator with international competitiveness.

Fire at Jakarta Bapenda Building Extinguished, Residents Only Saw Smoke in Lobby

A fire that broke out at the Jakarta Regional Revenue Agency (Bapenda) building on Friday evening has been extinguished. The blaze affected the 11th-floor archive room, with firefighters facing difficulties due to the building's non-functioning water pumps. This is the second fire at the same government building in two weeks.

Prosecutors: Hajj quota corruption robbed citizens' right to worship

KPK prosecutors have argued that alleged corruption in Indonesia's 2023–2024 hajj quota allocation went beyond financial loss, violating citizens' constitutional right to worship. The case involves former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and an alleged state loss of Rp622.09 billion. Prosecutors claim additional hajj quotas meant to shorten waiting times were instead misused for unlawful fees and personal enrichment.

Introducing Old-School Transport, Bulfest Visitors Can Ride a Dokar for Free

The Buleleng Regency Government is offering free traditional horse-drawn cart (dokar) rides at the 2026 Buleleng Festival to introduce heritage transport to younger generations. Two dokars operate daily around Jalan Ngurah Rai and the official residence, reinforcing the festival's old-time theme. One participating driver, Ketut Siara, earns Rp 300,000 per day during the event, significantly more than his usual market earnings.

Danantara's Role in Strengthening the Economy: Focusing Investment on Impactful Industries

President Prabowo Subianto has highlighted the role of Danantara Indonesia in driving national investment, with realised investment reaching Rp1,931 trillion in 2025. The sovereign wealth fund is expected to support downstreaming projects and strategic initiatives, including waste-to-energy plants, while business groups urge that its investments strengthen domestic industrial capacity. Officials emphasise that investment success should be measured by job creation and public welfare, not just financial returns.

MPR urges child protection from climate crisis threats

Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Lestari Moerdijat has called for urgent national action to protect vulnerable groups, particularly children and women, from the impacts of the climate crisis. Citing UNICEF data and Indonesian disaster statistics, she warned that climate-induced livelihood losses could increase risks of human trafficking, child marriage, and school dropouts. She stressed that collaboration between government, private sector, and communities is essential to build preparedness and mitigation systems.

Temporary Cipeundeuy Toll Gate Begins Operation Today

Astra Tol Cipali has commenced operation of the temporary Cipeundeuy toll gate at KM 87+950 Lane A, following a decree from the Minister of Public Works. The access point is intended to improve regional connectivity and support logistics distribution towards the Patimban area. Motorists will enjoy free travel during the initial phase until further notice.

Air Ambulances: A New Path to Saving Lives in Remote Areas

President Prabowo Subianto's proposal to introduce air ambulances and flying doctor teams offers new hope for Indonesia's remote regions, but experts stress the need for a comprehensive medical evacuation system. Aviation medicine specialist Vika Cokronegoro explains that patient conditions, aircraft types, and medical protocols must all be carefully considered to ensure safe and effective air medical transport.

Leadership Offices at Unsoed Rectorate Sealed Following KPK Sting Operation

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has sealed several leadership offices at Jenderal Soedirman University (Unsoed) in Purwokerto, including the rector's and vice-rectors' rooms. The university spokesperson confirmed the sealing but said he had not yet inspected the site personally. The action follows the questioning of Vice Rector I Noor Farid by KPK investigators at the Banyumas Police headquarters.

Immigration Searches for Two Israeli-Born Foreign Nationals After Viral Gym Expulsion in Bali

Denpasar Immigration Office is seeking two Israeli-born foreign nationals holding Bulgarian and Romanian passports after a video of their expulsion from a gym in Bali went viral. The individuals have been placed on a wanted list for monitoring and examination. Authorities are investigating whether any immigration violations occurred and will question both the foreigners and the gym owner.

Indonesia marks fourth year without terrorist attacks

Indonesia has recorded four consecutive years without a terrorist attack, a milestone attributed to collaborative efforts between the National Counterterrorism Agency, police Special Detachment 88, and the public. Authorities have thwarted 28 planned attacks over this period, supported by Law No. 5/2018 which criminalises preparatory acts of terrorism. Officials stress that continued vigilance and inter-agency cooperation remain essential to sustaining this security achievement.

UK to impose sanctions on Israeli settlements in the West Bank

The United Kingdom is preparing to ban trade with illegal Israeli settlements in the West Bank, according to Bloomberg sources. The move follows Israel's approval and tendering of thousands of new housing units in the E1 area, which would split the occupied West Bank. Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband is expected to announce the measures around the UN General Assembly in September.

Cimahi City Government Welcomes Plan to Transfer P3K Teacher Status to Central Government

The Cimahi city government has expressed support for the central government's plan to take over the employment status of government contract teachers (P3K) from regional administrations. While awaiting technical guidance from the Ministry of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform, local officials are seeking clarity on how the transfer will affect the General Allocation Fund (DAU) used to pay civil servant salaries. Cimahi currently employs 1,283 P3K teachers across state primary and junior secondary schools.

Kebumen's 397th Anniversary Steeped in Javanese Tradition and Spirit of Togetherness

Kebumen Regency marked its 397th anniversary with a ceremony rich in Javanese customs, held at the Pendopo Kabumian. Regent Lilis Nuryani used the occasion to call for strengthened unity and mutual cooperation to achieve the region's development vision. The celebration included awards for community achievements, a mass dance performance by 397 students, and a communal meal featuring the local delicacy nasi tempelang.

Jayapura city government builds digital libraries for residents of 14 villages

The Jayapura city government in Papua is expanding digital library access to 14 villages through its Library and Archives Agency. The initiative aims to improve access to information and reading materials while supporting community empowerment and the development of local economic potential. The libraries are intended to function not only as reading spaces but also as integrated public spaces linked to micro, small and medium enterprises.

Indonesia and China push for completion of South China Sea Code of Conduct

Indonesia and China have reaffirmed their support for the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea and urged the completion of the Code of Conduct within the ASEAN-China framework. The commitment was made during the second 2+2 dialogue between the two countries' foreign and defence ministers in Jakarta. Both sides also agreed to strengthen political, security and defence cooperation, including military-to-military ties.

Immigration Services in Labuan Bajo Conducted in Emergency Tents

Immigration services in Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai, have been temporarily relocated to emergency tents following the 7.7 magnitude earthquake on 15 August. The Immigration Office is prioritising safety amid ongoing aftershocks, with services expected to operate from the temporary facilities for up to two weeks. Eight applicants were served on Friday, including passport and stay permit requests.

Pertamina says all petrol stations in Flores operating to serve the public

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has confirmed that all 56 petrol stations across Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara, have resumed operations following the earthquake that struck the region on 15 August 2026. Electricity supply at the stations has also returned to normal, with most no longer relying on generators. The company has deployed 33 tanker trucks and is coordinating with the military, police, and local governments to ensure fuel distribution and disaster response needs are met.

Customs Intercepts MV Ocean Porter, 2.6 Tonnes of Liquid Methamphetamine Seized

Indonesian Customs and a joint task force intercepted the Tanzanian-flagged MV Ocean Porter in Bengkalis waters, Riau, seizing 2.6 tonnes of pure liquid methamphetamine and 1.57 million illegal cigarettes. The vessel, crewed by ten Myanmar nationals, had repeatedly changed its name and disabled its AIS to evade detection. Authorities estimate the drugs could have been processed into 2.82 million vape cartridges worth approximately Rp8.47 trillion.

Green Policing at Pacu Jalur Arena, Riau Police Clean Up Rubbish Along Narosa Riverbank

Riau Regional Police deployed personnel to clean up rubbish along the Narosa riverbank in Teluk Kuantan during the Pacu Jalur event. The Green Policing initiative aims to foster public awareness of environmental responsibility. Police hope the effort will encourage visitors to keep the area clean throughout the national event.

Airlangga: Productivity boost to drive six percent growth

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has emphasised that raising productivity is a key indicator for achieving the government's six percent economic growth target by 2027. He highlighted strategic programmes including national internships for 150,000 fresh graduates and vocational training for up to 250,000 participants. Airlangga also noted a partnership between Danantara Indonesia and UK chip designer Arm Limited to develop 15,000 semiconductor engineers.

Police Arrest Retail Seller of Subsidised Fuel Again

Police in Garut, West Java, have arrested a 38-year-old man for illegally transporting and selling subsidised Pertalite fuel without a permit. The suspect had allegedly been running the operation for three years, buying fuel at a petrol station in Tasikmalaya and reselling it in Garut. Officers seized 560 litres of Pertalite, a van, barcode sheets and a mobile phone.

Indonesian Market Increasingly Attracts Korean Fashion Brands

South Korean fashion brand Fibreno has opened its first permanent store in Jakarta's Plaza Indonesia, citing strong consumer response to an earlier pop-up event. Founder Iris Lim, who grew up in Indonesia, described the country as her second home and highlighted the alignment between Indonesian consumers' affinity for colour and the brand's 'Color for Life' philosophy. The brand is also developing locally inspired products, including a durian-shaped accessory, as part of its expansion strategy.

Unusual Sight as Barito River in Kalimantan Dries Up

The Barito River in Central Kalimantan has receded dramatically during the peak of the dry season, exposing sandbanks and disrupting vital water transport. BMKG officials warn that the extreme low water levels are nearly paralysing river logistics, affecting coal, oil, and timber barges. The phenomenon is attributed to prolonged drought and low rainfall, with potential long-term consequences for regional economic output.

Bach Multi Global (BACH) Commits to Maintaining Performance Until 2030, Here's the Strategy

PT Bach Multi Global Tbk (BACH), a Djarum Group telecommunications infrastructure company, has outlined its growth strategy following its July 2026 IPO on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. The company plans to use IPO proceeds to repay debt and fund working capital, while targeting revenue of Rp 3 trillion and net profit of Rp 401 billion by 2030. BACH is focusing on expanding its power rental capacity, developing new energy lines, and strengthening long-term contract-based revenue.

Bang Japar Reinforces Commitment to Safeguard Jakarta, Calls for Preserving Brotherhood

Fahira Idris, Chairwoman of Bang Japar and DPD RI member for Jakarta, has reaffirmed the organisation's commitment to safeguarding Jakarta through community empowerment, public services, and social harmony. She announced Bang Japar's participation in the Apel Siaga Jaga Jakarta on 27 August 2026, emphasising that the event is a peaceful, collaborative effort rather than a confrontation. Idris also urged residents to avoid provocation and maintain democratic values and brotherhood.

Police Arrest Three Debt Collectors for Extorting Motorcyclist in Tangerang

Police in Tangerang have arrested three debt collectors accused of extorting a student from an Islamic boarding school after forcibly stopping him on a main road. The suspects allegedly intimidated the victim and demanded Rp2.5 million, of which he paid Rp500,000 via e-wallet transfers. Three other suspects remain at large as police continue their investigation.

LKP Nuning Cimahi Equips Graduates with Business Start-up Tools to Create New Entrepreneurs

LKP Nuning in Cimahi has completed its 2026 Entrepreneurial Skills Education (PKW) programme in bridal makeup, graduating 20 participants who received business start-up equipment. The programme, run in cooperation with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, also involved partners from the cosmetics, digital marketing, banking and entrepreneurship sectors. Graduates will receive mentoring for up to one year to help them become independent professional makeup artists.

OJK Tasikmalaya: No additional victims in paylater limit deposit service case

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) in Tasikmalaya has confirmed that no further victims or financial losses have emerged from the illegal paylater limit deposit service scheme in East Priangan, West Java. The case, which involved total losses of Rp500 million across Ciamis, Tasikmalaya City, and Tasikmalaya Regency, has been closed with the suspect already arrested. OJK emphasised that such schemes operate on a Ponzi model and urged the public to improve financial literacy to avoid illegal investments.

At 50 Years of HIPPI, Indonesian Entrepreneurs Urged Not to Be Spectators in Their Own Country

As the Indonesian Indigenous Entrepreneurs Association (HIPPI) marks its 50th anniversary, its South Jakarta chairman Azka Aufary Ramli calls for a shift from fighting for existence to building competitiveness. He urges Indonesian entrepreneurs to move up the value chain, master technology, and become key players in the national economy rather than mere spectators. The next five decades should focus on regeneration, collaboration, and helping small businesses scale up into larger enterprises.

Trump Keen to Meet, Kim Jong Un Sets Extremely Tough Conditions

US President Donald Trump has publicly expressed his desire to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un by the end of the year, but Pyongyang has responded coolly with stringent preconditions. Analysts say Kim has little incentive to negotiate now, given North Korea's growing trade ties with China and Russia. The North has also test-fired around 10 ballistic missiles in apparent protest against US-South Korea military exercises.

Commemorating 57 Years Since the Al-Aqsa Arson, Crowd Holds Rally Outside US Embassy

Members of the Aqsa Working Group staged a rally outside the US Embassy in Jakarta to mark the 57th anniversary of the arson attack on the Al-Aqsa Mosque. The demonstrators urged the United States and Israel's allies to halt what they described as legal violations against the mosque and to return it to Muslim control. The event also served as a platform to express solidarity with the Palestinian struggle for independence.

Tabanan Police Help Ease Burden of Family with Child Suffering from Heart Defect

Tabanan Police have provided milk and nappies to the family of a two-year-old girl diagnosed with double outlet right ventricle, a congenital heart defect. The assistance was delivered through the 'Polres Tabanan Peduli' social programme held at the police headquarters. The initiative forms part of the commemoration of Hari Juang Polri and aims to strengthen ties between the police and the community.

Yaqut's Legal Team Argues Indictment Fails to Specify Defendant's Actions

The legal team of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has argued that the prosecution's indictment does not clearly describe any active wrongdoing by their client. They maintain that the allocation of additional hajj quotas was based on a bilateral agreement with Saudi Arabia and was not a unilateral decision. The defence is urging the panel of judges to consider these points before issuing an interim ruling.

12,880 joint personnel deployed to extinguish forest and land fires in Kalimantan

The Ministry of Forestry has deployed 12,880 joint personnel to combat forest and land fires across Kalimantan, with operations now entering their 48th day. The effort involves Manggala Agni fire brigades, volunteers, the military, police, and local agencies, supported by water bombing and weather modification operations. Officials have urged companies and communities to remain vigilant to prevent new fire hotspots.

Rail Ballast Distribution Reaches 167 Thousand Cubic Metres

KAI Logistik (Kalog) has completed approximately 167,000 cubic metres of rail ballast distribution across Java and Sumatra, out of a total estimated 396,000 cubic metres planned for 2026. The work is being carried out in stages to support railway infrastructure reliability and safety. Kalog is providing a 180-day maintenance guarantee after handover to ensure the quality of the ballast work.

National Jamboree Becomes Platform to Strengthen Students' Spiritual and Intellectual Values

Four students from SMP Labschool Ciracas have been selected to represent DKI Jakarta at the 12th National Jamboree in 2026, held at Buperta Cibubur, East Jakarta. The event, opened by Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir, brought together nearly 20,000 participants from across Indonesia and friendly nations. The school hopes the experience will build independence, leadership, and national spirit in preparation for Indonesia Emas 2045.

OJK: P2P lending to MSMEs grows 23.25 percent as of June 2026

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) reported that peer-to-peer lending to micro, small and medium enterprises grew 23.25 percent year-on-year to Rp35.12 trillion by June 2026. The regulator and lawmakers emphasised the industry's growing role in providing alternative financing for MSMEs. Industry association AFPI called for healthy, responsible and sustainable growth supported by closer stakeholder collaboration.

Airlangga says gold bullion ecosystem adds economic value

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has highlighted the economic benefits of Indonesia's gold bullion ecosystem, which has transformed previously idle gold into productive financial assets. The national gold bank, launched in February 2025, now manages approximately 153 tonnes of gold worth around Rp360 trillion. Customer numbers and gold savings have grown significantly, with Pegadaian's bullion customers rising from 3.2 million to 5.6 million in its first year.

Google users can choose favourite news sources for search results

Google has introduced a new feature allowing users to prioritise their preferred news websites in search results. The Preferred Sources button can be installed by site owners, and when readers click it, articles from those outlets will appear more frequently across Google Search, Top Stories, AI Overviews, and AI Mode. The move comes as referral traffic from Google to news publishers has declined due to AI-generated search features.

Minister wants local MSME products prioritised for marketing in KDKMP

Cooperatives Minister Ferry Juliantono has urged that the Red and White Village/Sub-district Cooperatives (KDKMP) prioritise stocking products made by local micro, small and medium enterprises. He said the cooperatives are intended to absorb community output, curb middlemen and loan sharks, and shorten distribution chains for subsidised goods. The programme will also include clinics, microfinance, warehousing and logistics services.

17 years after Montara, YPTB renews demand for justice for East Nusa Tenggara residents

The Yayasan Peduli Timor Barat (YPTB) has renewed its call for resolution of the 2009 Montara oil spill, which it says damaged more than 60,000 hectares of coral reef and affected over 100,000 coastal livelihoods in East Nusa Tenggara. The foundation says many affected communities are still awaiting compensation and that the disaster has caused long-term social, economic and health problems. YPTB says it will continue to pursue justice through international forums, including the United Nations.

Indonesian Haze Engulfs Neighbouring Countries, Hundreds of Schools Closed

Thick haze from forest and land fires in Indonesian Borneo has forced the closure of 591 schools across Sarawak, Malaysia, affecting nearly 200,000 students. Air quality in several districts has reached 'very unhealthy' levels, with Singapore also shortening Friday sermons due to deteriorating conditions. Indonesian authorities have deployed cloud seeding operations in Central Kalimantan to combat the fires.

Prolonged Drought Threatens 1,400 Hectares of Farmland in Parigi Moutong with Crop Failure

A prolonged drought has struck nine villages in Parigi Moutong Regency, Central Sulawesi, threatening at least 1,400 hectares of agricultural and plantation land. The regional disaster mitigation agency (BPBD) has confirmed that water levels at the main source in Kayu Agung Village have fallen to just 25 percent of normal. Emergency assessments are underway, with residents urgently requiring water pumps, bore wells, and clean water supplies.

Shanghai Electric Supports World's Largest Single Bio-Methanol Bunkering for Ships

Shanghai Electric, in partnership with Shanghai International Port Group and CMA CGM Group, completed the world's largest single bio-methanol bunkering operation at Yangshan Port, Shanghai, with a total volume of 8,000 metric tonnes. The bio-methanol was primarily supplied by Shanghai Electric's Taonan green methanol project in Jilin province, demonstrating the company's large-scale production and supply capabilities. The achievement highlights the integrated green fuel corridor linking Jilin, Dalian, and Shanghai, supporting China's dual-carbon targets and the global transition to low-carbon energy.

Attorney General's Office transfers Yeka Hendra to prosecutors for immediate trial

The Attorney General's Office has handed over former Ombudsman member Yeka Hendra Fatika and evidence to prosecutors for trial on charges of obstructing the investigation into the crude palm oil export facility corruption case. Yeka is accused of providing a manipulated official report in exchange for money, which was then used to influence administrative and civil court rulings. Those rulings were subsequently used to acquit corporate defendants in the underlying corruption case.

DPR RI member urges stronger forest and land fire mitigation for public safety

Hetifah Sjaifudian, a member of House Commission VIII, has called for stronger forest and land fire mitigation across Kalimantan as hotspots rise sharply. She urged cross-sector coordination, rapid response, and public health protections, particularly for vulnerable groups. The appeal follows significant increases in fire hotspots in West, Central, South, and East Kalimantan.

Apindo proposes special team to oversee IEU-CEPA implementation

The Indonesian Employers' Association (Apindo) has proposed establishing a joint task force to monitor the ratification and implementation of the Indonesia-EU Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU-CEPA). The task force would operate at both the EU technical level and individual member state level to ensure the agreement's provisions are effectively applied. Apindo also called for broader outreach on the agreement's benefits, particularly for micro, small, and medium enterprises.

60 Seconds to Tokyo: Japanese Street Food Sensation at Over 130 Archipelago Hotels in Indonesia

Archipelago Hotels has launched '60 Seconds to Tokyo', a Japanese street food culinary programme running from 1 July to 31 December 2026 across more than 130 of its properties in Indonesia. The initiative follows the award-winning '60 Seconds to Seoul' campaign and features signature dishes such as Menchi Chicken Katsu, Sakura Sunset, and Kuromitsu Matcha Puff. The programme is available to both hotel guests and the general public through hotel restaurants, poolside service, room service, and online delivery.

Aeramo Regional Hospital in Nagekeo Needs Portable Toilets and Air Conditioning as It Becomes Emergency Hospital

Aeramo Regional Hospital in Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara, is facing a shortage of portable toilets and air conditioning units after an earthquake damaged its facilities. The hospital is now serving as an emergency facility for earthquake victims, with 35 inpatients and their families sharing only two functioning toilets. Officials are appealing for donations of six portable toilets and air conditioning units for critical care areas.

Immigration searches for two foreign nationals after viral gym expulsion

The Denpasar Immigration Office is searching for two foreign nationals born in Israel holding Bulgarian and Romanian passports after a video of their expulsion from a gym in Bali went viral. The individuals have been placed on an immigration watchlist for monitoring and examination. Authorities are also investigating the gym owner and have not yet determined whether any immigration violations occurred.

Lianlian DigiTech Posts Solid First-Half 2026 Performance

Lianlian DigiTech reported strong interim results for the first half of 2026, with global payment TPV rising 25.9% to RMB249.9 billion and adjusted operating profit more than doubling. The company attributed the growth to its 'AI-Native + Globalization' strategy, which accelerated product launches including Agentic Payment solutions. Lianlian also expanded its global regulatory footprint to 68 payment licences and qualifications.

Insurance Payout of Rp562 Million Helps Sustain Educational Foundation in Bandung

Prudential Syariah has disbursed Rp562 million in life insurance benefits to Auzar, the beneficiary of a deceased policyholder, enabling him to continue managing an educational foundation in Bandung serving around 700 students. The policyholder, a Bank Syariah Indonesia customer, had designated Auzar as beneficiary before dying in an accident. The payout has provided both financial support and peace of mind, ensuring the foundation's operations continue.

Education Minister: Part-time PPPK teachers to become full-time in 2027

Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Abdul Mu'ti has announced that teachers holding part-time government employee (PPPK) status will automatically transition to full-time PPPK positions starting January 2027 without requiring additional tests. The government will also open civil servant (PNS) selection for teachers in 2027, with careful preparation based on accurate data on teacher needs.

US Asks China to Help Isolate Iran's Economy, Beijing Refuses

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has warned allies to join Washington in economically isolating Iran, stating that those who do not will be choosing to oppose the United States. Bessent confirmed the US has asked China to participate in the sanctions effort, though Beijing has declined. The US aims to use maximum economic pressure to cripple Iran's economy and ultimately bring down the Iranian regime without resorting to large-scale military action.

Hyundai Hit by First Full Strike in a Decade as 40,000 Workers Walk Out

Hyundai Motor's union staged its first full-day strike in ten years after wage negotiations broke down, with workers demanding a higher retirement age and job protections against AI and automation. The industrial action, which also involved Kia and parts suppliers, has already disrupted production of 55,200 vehicles worth over 2.3 trillion won. The strike adds to Hyundai's challenges amid intensifying competition from China and falling domestic sales.

Deputy Minister P2MI: Safe Migrant Programme prevents illegal workers

Deputy Minister for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers Dzulfikar Ahmad Tawalla has emphasised that the Safe Migrant Programme is a concrete effort to prevent illegal migrant worker departures. He highlighted the government's focus on ensuring migration procedures are followed and that workers receive proper protection. Tawalla also called on Hasanuddin University alumni networks to support shifting migrant workers from informal to formal sectors.

BSI remains optimistic about achieving double-digit financing target in 2026

PT Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) remains confident it can meet its double-digit financing growth target of 12-15 percent by the end of 2026, supported by strong consumer demand and improving asset quality. The bank reported 15.98 percent year-on-year financing growth to Rp340 trillion in the first half of 2026, with non-performing financing ratios improving and cost of credit falling to 0.62 percent. BSI attributes its performance to its unique position as Indonesia's only bank operating as both a sharia bank and a gold bank.

Insurance Industry Strengthens Partnerships for Sustainable Business Growth

PT Asuransi Ciputra Indonesia (Ciputra Life) is expanding its business partnerships and diversifying its portfolio to sustain growth in the insurance sector. The company reported a 95% increase in net profit for 2025 and a 53% rise in premiums in the first half of 2026. Its Risk Based Capital ratio remains well above regulatory requirements at 315%.

South African Foreign National Found Dead in Bandung Apartment, Body Discovered Decomposing

A 33-year-old South African national was found dead in his apartment at The Jardin in Bandung on Wednesday evening. Police suspect the man died of a heart attack. Authorities are conducting further examinations to confirm the cause of death.

PMI Distributes 2.1 Million Litres of Clean Water to Tackle Drought in East Java Since June 2026

The Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) in East Java has distributed over 2.1 million litres of clean water to communities affected by drought across 18 regencies and cities since June 2026. The aid has reached 135,944 beneficiaries in 113 villages, with PMI coordinating with regional disaster agencies to ensure distribution. PMI has also provided hygiene and health education to around 12,095 people as the peak of the dry season is expected to last until September 2026.

Activist Testimony: Forest Fire Sources Suspected from Land Clearing

Environmental activist Chanee Kalaweit has presented aerial evidence suggesting that forest and land fires in Kalimantan originate from land clearing for oil palm plantations and illegal gold mining. His testimony comes as the National Police Chief announces that several suspects have been identified in connection with the fires. The Ministry of Environment has also issued urgent instructions to six governors in Sumatra and Kalimantan to tighten fire prevention measures amid a strong El Niño phenomenon.

Government Opens SR025 Retail Sukuk Offering Today, Yields at 6.8% and 6.9%

The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Finance, has opened the offering of the SR025 retail sukuk series with two tenors and competitive yields. The SR025T3 (3-year) offers a 6.8% return while the SR025T5 (5-year) offers 6.9%, with monthly coupon payments on the 10th. Investors can purchase through 33 appointed distribution partners via electronic systems.

Part-time PPPK teachers to become full-time, NTB provincial government awaits central directive

The West Nusa Tenggara provincial government is awaiting technical guidance from the central government on converting part-time PPPK teachers to full-time status and subsequently appointing them as civil servants. The move is expected to ease the region's fiscal burden, with teacher salaries potentially shifting from the regional to the state budget. Around 2,240 part-time PPPK teachers in NTB are expected to be accommodated under the new scheme.

US Suddenly Moves Aircraft Carrier Away from Near Indonesia, What's Going On?

The United States has redeployed the USS George Washington aircraft carrier from the Indo-Pacific to the Middle East, prompting warnings from a retired admiral that the move creates a security gap amid rising threats from China. Analysts say Beijing may view the shift as a strategic advantage while Washington's naval presence in the Pacific is reduced for more than 18 months.

BNI WondrX 2026: A Meeting Place for MSMEs, Lifestyle, and Financial Solutions

State-owned bank BNI has launched BNI WondrX 2026 at ICE BSD in Tangerang as part of its 80th anniversary celebrations. The three-day event features around 370 tenants spanning MSMEs, automotive, property, retail, culinary, and lifestyle sectors, and is projected to attract more than 80,000 visitors. Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani attended the opening alongside BNI's board of directors.

West Java Residents Top Indonesia's Online Fraud Victim List

West Java has recorded the highest number of online fraud reports in Indonesia, with 131,445 complaints lodged between November 2024 and June 2026. Bekasi, Bandung, Bogor and Depok are the worst-affected areas, with online shopping scams the most common modus operandi. Total reported losses from online shopping fraud alone reached Rp 1.78 trillion.

British national dies after alleged assault in Bali

Police in Denpasar are investigating the death of a British national, identified by the initials PID, who was allegedly assaulted at an entertainment venue in Legian, Bali. The victim received medical treatment before dying, and his child has filed a report with the police. Four Australian nationals have been identified as suspects but had already left Indonesia for Australia the day after the incident.

BNN RI reveals seizure of 2.6 tonnes of liquid methamphetamine in Karimun waters

Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has announced the interception of a Tanzanian-flagged vessel carrying 2.6 tonnes of liquid methamphetamine in the waters off Karimun. The vessel had changed its name four times and followed an erratic route from Taiwan and Sarawak through the South China Sea and Thai waters before entering the Malacca Strait. A joint task force involving BNN, customs, and regional police deployed three maritime units to apprehend the ship on 17 August.

Why Turkey Did Not Retaliate Against Israel's Attack on Abu al-Duhur Air Base

Turkey and Syria are working to avoid escalation after Israel bombed the Abu al-Duhur air base in Syria near the Turkish border. Damascus believes Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is deliberately provoking a conflict ahead of October 2026 elections. Washington is building diplomatic channels between Turkey, Israel, and Syria to prevent unwanted fighting.

Trade Minister: I-EU CEPA to be agreement with highest tariff commitments

Indonesia's Trade Minister Budi Santoso has stated that the Indonesia-European Union Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (I-EU CEPA) will feature the highest tariff commitment levels Indonesia has ever offered in a trade agreement. The deal is expected to liberalise around 98 percent of tariff lines, covering approximately 99.5 percent of total import value, providing greater access for Indonesian products to the EU market. Both parties are targeting signature in the fourth quarter of 2026, followed by ratification and implementation.

Gontor leader invites global educators to attend GIHES 2026

Pondok Modern Darussalam Gontor is inviting international Islamic education stakeholders to the Global Islamic Holistic Education Summit (GIHES) 2026, scheduled for 5-6 September in Jakarta as part of the institution's centenary celebrations. The forum aims to address the growing mental fragility among young people worldwide, which organisers attribute to rapid technological advancement outpacing character and leadership development. Speakers highlighted the pesantren system's 24-hour holistic approach to nurturing mental, moral, and soft skills as a model for preparing future leaders.

Sleman Regency strengthens film industry ecosystem as creative economy pillar

The Sleman Regency Government in Yogyakarta is reinforcing its film, animation, and video industry ecosystem as a key driver of inclusive creative economy development. The regency has passed the initial national selection for the UNESCO Creative Cities Network in the film category and has allocated over Rp13 billion for training programmes targeting nearly 500 underprivileged high school graduates. Officials highlight the sector's potential to reduce educated unemployment, currently around five per cent, and to position Sleman as a world-class film city.

Giring says women are the vanguard of civilisation building

Deputy Minister of Culture Giring Ganesha has described women as 'Ibu Bumi' who must be at the forefront of building civilisation towards a prosperous Indonesia. He made the remarks after watching the Sabang Merauke performance themed 'Hikayat Srikandi Nusantara' at Indonesia Arena, Jakarta. The production involved around 1,700 artists and was praised by Giring as a display of Indonesia's unique cultural wealth.

Dukcapil Brings Mobile Services to Assist NTT Disaster Victims with Civil Registration

Indonesia's Ministry of Home Affairs is deploying mobile civil registration units to disaster-affected areas in East Nusa Tenggara to help residents replace lost or damaged identity documents. The programme, running from 24 to 28 August 2026, will provide free services across seven regencies. The initiative is based on Home Affairs Ministerial Regulation No. 96 of 2019, which classifies disaster victims as a vulnerable population for civil administration.

Cooperatives Minister pushes cooperative business activities towards production

Cooperatives Minister Ferry Juliantono has urged Indonesian cooperatives to expand beyond savings and loans into production, distribution and industry. He highlighted a palm oil cooperative in South Sumatra that now operates its own CPO mill as a model. The minister said cooperatives should return to the vision of founding father Bung Hatta by entering sectors vital to public welfare.

Drought in Penajam, East Kalimantan: Raw Water Sources Dry Up, Residents Face Clean Water Crisis

Residents of Penajam District in Penajam Paser Utara Regency, East Kalimantan, are experiencing a severe clean water crisis as extreme drought has dried up raw water sources, halting supply from the regional water utility. The utility reports only 30 percent of raw water remains for the Penajam area, prompting rotational distribution and emergency tanker deliveries. Local authorities have formed a disaster task force to coordinate water aid distribution to affected communities.

KAMMI Calls for National Unity, Urges Aspirations Be Channelled Through Official Routes

The Indonesian Muslim Students Action Union (KAMMI) has urged all citizens to strengthen national unity in response to the current democratic climate. The organisation argues that unity is an absolute prerequisite for national development and that criticism should remain rooted in a shared national spirit. KAMMI also encouraged groups such as AMPB and the Arif Coalition to pursue anti-corruption demands through formal legislative and public participation channels.

KAMMI Calls for Unity, Warns Criticism Must Not Divide the People

The Indonesian Muslim Student Action Union (KAMMI) has urged all citizens to strengthen national unity in response to the current democratic climate. The organisation emphasised that differences of opinion and criticism of policy are healthy but must remain rooted in a single national spirit. KAMMI also encouraged civil society groups to channel their demands through official forums and legislative audiences.

Police investigate assault on container lorry driver in Tanjung Priok

Police in Tanjung Priok, North Jakarta, are investigating an assault on a container lorry driver who was attacked after refusing to give lifts to a group of men believed to be street buskers. The incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday near the Jakarta International Stadium, leaving the driver with head injuries from thrown stones. Officers are pursuing the suspects, though no witnesses have been able to identify them.

Forest Fire Instigator for Oil Palm Plantation in Berau Named Suspect, Admits Being Ordered

Police in Berau, East Kalimantan, have named a man identified as BS a suspect for deliberately setting fires that burned approximately 12 hectares of land in Tanjung Batu. BS admitted he was ordered by an individual landowner to clear the area for oil palm cultivation using fire. Authorities have charged him under environmental protection and job creation laws, with a maximum prison sentence of 12 years and fines up to Rp10 billion.

Asperhupiki strengthens lecturers' understanding of new Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code

The Indonesian Association of Criminal Law and Criminology Lecturers (Asperhupiki) is holding a series of national workshops to deepen academics' understanding of the new Criminal Code (KUHP) and Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP). The initiative aims to align teaching approaches around the codes' shift from retributive justice towards restorative and rehabilitative paradigms. The third workshop, held at Diponegoro University, brought together 100 lecturers from across Indonesia.

Pertamina Drives National Geothermal Expansion at IIGCE 2026

PT Pertamina (Persero) is accelerating its geothermal development strategy to support Indonesia's energy transition and national energy security. At the 12th Indonesia International Geothermal Convention & Exhibition (IIGCE) 2026, its subsidiary PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy signed strategic agreements and received a new government exploration assignment. The initiatives include bottoming unit projects with PLN and a preliminary survey assignment in West Sumatra.

Beyond Business, ABMM Strengthens ESG Through Education Investment for Children in Meulaboh

PT ABM Investama Tbk (ABMM) is strengthening the social pillar of its ESG strategy through a sustainable education programme in Meulaboh, West Aceh. Its subsidiary, PT Prima Wiguna Parama, has partnered with SOS Children's Villages Indonesia to provide scholarships up to undergraduate level for fostered children. The initiative aims to develop local talent that can support the industrial sector in the company's operational areas.

IEU-CEPA Expected to Open Wider European Investment Flows into Indonesia

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has expressed optimism that ratification of the Indonesia-European Union Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU-CEPA) will unlock greater European investment into Indonesia. He noted that several European countries have recently brought large business delegations to explore opportunities in the country. The agreement is seen as a way to provide certainty and encourage European businesses to expand their presence in Indonesia.

Creative Economy Ministry ready to support Pawitandirogo creative players to grow the economy

The Ministry of Creative Economy has pledged to support creative economy actors across the Pawitandirogo region of East Java, citing the area's cultural wealth and growing creative communities as promising economic assets. Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya announced programmes including Creative Village activation, Creative Hub activation, and Creative by Indonesia to help local brands reach provincial, national, and global markets. The initiative aims to strengthen collaboration among six districts and cities to drive regional and national economic growth.

Constitutional Court Achieves Unqualified Opinion, 434 BPK Recommendations Fully Resolved

The Constitutional Court (MK) has fully resolved all 434 recommendations from the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK), amounting to Rp4.49 billion, as of the first half of 2026. The BPK also awarded the MK an Unqualified Opinion (WTP) for its 2025 financial report, with no state losses recorded. The achievement reflects the institution's commitment to using audit findings for continuous governance improvement.

Minister Pigai proposes standalone human rights curriculum

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has proposed that human rights education be given its own curriculum and textbooks at all school levels. The proposal has been submitted to the education ministries to strengthen human rights awareness from an early age. Pigai hopes the initiative will encourage broader human rights education and strengthen human rights development across ministries, institutions and the education sector.

Badung Regent Discusses Green Transport Collaboration with British Embassy

Badung Regent I Wayan Adi Arnawa met with a British Embassy delegation to discuss collaboration on developing an organised and environmentally friendly transport system. The initiative aims to support tourist mobility, reduce carbon emissions, and strengthen Badung's position as a world-class destination. The British Embassy expressed readiness to provide technical assistance for the green transport project.

Is the United States Still Capable of Running the World?

The return of Donald Trump to the White House has raised deep concerns among US allies about Washington's actual military capability, not just its political intentions. Depleted weapons stockpiles and slow industrial production have led officials in allied and rival capitals to question whether the US can still provide decisive power in multi-front conflicts. Analysts warn that this capability gap has direct implications for deterrence against China and the defence of Europe and the Middle East.

Bank of Korea Wary of Inflation, Interest Rates Could Rise Again

The Bank of Korea has signalled it may raise interest rates further, citing inflation above target and stronger-than-expected economic growth. Senior Deputy Governor Kwon Min-soo said decisions would be made carefully and flexibly, with inflation, growth, and financial stability as key considerations. The central bank's next policy meeting is scheduled for 27 August.

Police Arrest Man in Berau, East Kalimantan for Burning Land for Palm Oil Plantation

Police in Berau, East Kalimantan, have arrested a man identified as BS for allegedly burning approximately 12 hectares of land in Tanjung Batu to prepare it for a palm oil plantation. The suspect claimed he was acting on the orders of a private landowner who instructed him to clear the land by fire, citing practical reasons for soil fertility. The blaze spread beyond the intended area, damaging a forestry company's concession and causing an estimated Rp1.2 billion in material losses.

Aprobi and BPDP educate Scouts on importance of renewable energy and palm oil

The Indonesian Biofuel Producers Association (Aprobi) and the Oil Palm Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP) have educated 5,000 Scouts at the 2026 National Jamboree about renewable energy and palm oil. The initiative aims to position Scouts as agents of palm oil literacy to counter negative narratives and promote the benefits of biodiesel. Indonesia has implemented a mandatory biodiesel programme up to B50.

CIPS says Indonesia's progress must be accompanied by stronger transparency

The Center for Indonesian Policy Studies (CIPS) has warned that Indonesia's prosperity gains are slowing and require stronger institutional transparency, public participation, and legal certainty to be sustained. While the country climbed 15 places in the Legatum Prosperity Index over the past decade, CIPS highlights declining civil liberties and persistent corruption as key risks. The think tank urges the government to return to the spirit of gotong royong by welcoming community initiatives and ensuring open policymaking.

Air Pollution Control Bylaw Enters 2027 Regional Legislation Programme

The Jakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) has included a draft bylaw on air pollution control in its 2027 Regional Legislation Programme, prioritising it among 16 draft regulations. Lawmakers argue that strengthening environmental regulation is essential to address Jakarta's severe air pollution and its associated public health impacts, including high rates of acute respiratory infections.

Fire Breaks Out at Jakarta Bapenda Building: 11th Floor Archive Room

A fire broke out at the Jakarta Regional Revenue Agency (Bapenda) building on Friday evening, affecting the archive room on the 11th floor. Firefighters have localised the blaze and are currently conducting overhaul operations. No information has yet been released regarding the number of personnel deployed or the cause of the fire.

MP encourages Aceh Scouts to learn about parliament and leadership

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has urged young Scouts from Aceh to understand state institutions and parliamentary life from an early age. Teuku Zulkarnaini Ampon Bang made the remarks while receiving a Scout contingent at the parliament complex in Jakarta. He said the visit would help build national awareness and leadership character among future leaders.

Grief in Gaza: 50 bodies recovered after three years buried under rubble

Palestinian civil defence teams in Gaza have recovered the remains of 50 people from the rubble of homes destroyed nearly three years ago. The bodies, belonging to three families, were buried in a funeral procession attended by mourners. Officials estimate that more than 8,000 people remain buried beneath collapsed buildings across the Gaza Strip.

After 19 Years in Operation, Outsourcing Company Strengthens Business and Innovation

PT Swakarya Insan Mandiri (SIMGROUP) has marked its 19th anniversary by reaffirming its commitment to growth, transformation, and innovation. The outsourcing company highlighted its expanding service portfolio and operational network across Indonesia, alongside its continuous improvement culture. The anniversary celebrations included corporate social responsibility activities and the launch of the fourth batch of its Quality Control Circle convention.

PBNU Targets Final Voter List for 35th Congress by End of This Week

The Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU) reports that the final voter list for its 35th Congress is 95 per cent complete and is expected to be finalised by the end of this week. The congress is scheduled to take place from 27 to 31 August 2026 at Bahrul Ulum Tambakberas Islamic Boarding School in Jombang, East Java. President Prabowo Subianto has been formally invited to open the event.

West Jakarta Mayor explores waste processing technology collaboration in Kembangan

West Jakarta Mayor Iin Mutmainnah is exploring a partnership with the private sector to process inorganic waste into refuse-derived fuel and briquette raw materials for the cement industry. The initiative follows an evaluation showing that inorganic waste with no economic value can be converted into fuel, while organic waste processing into compost still requires improved education, technology, and collaboration.

Viral: Guides Find US Tourist's Money Scattered on Mount Pergasingan in Sembalun

A group of tour guides in Sembalun, East Lombok, went viral on social media after finding and returning money and personal belongings belonging to American tourists. The items, including around Rp 4-5 million in cash, a phone, and a passport, were scattered along the hiking trail on Mount Pergasingan, reportedly stolen by wild monkeys. The guides successfully located the owners and returned everything, declining a reward offered by the grateful tourists.

BNI wondrX 2026 Offers Complete Travel Solutions, from Tickets to Visas in One Travel Zone

PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk is hosting a dedicated Travel zone at BNI wondrX 2026, providing a one-stop service for flight tickets, accommodation, passport processing, and visa applications. The event, held at ICE BSD City from 21–23 August 2026, features flash sales, cashback offers, and instalment plans. BNI has partnered with the Directorate General of Immigration and visa service One Vasco to streamline travel preparations for the public.

Police Begin to Be Replaced, New Phenomenon in China Causes a Stir

China has begun trialling autonomous robots to take over routine traffic police duties in Hangzhou. The T2 robot, developed by SUPCON Information, can detect violations such as riding without a helmet and issue verbal warnings, with the company claiming over 170,000 warnings issued and a 40% reduction in certain offences within a month. The technology is part of a pilot project to shift repetitive traffic management tasks to intelligent machines.

Hundreds of Students in Solo Hold Joint Prayer for NTT Earthquake Victims

Around 300 primary school students in Solo, Central Java, gathered for a solidarity event to pray for victims of the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The event aimed to foster empathy and awareness among pupils towards those affected by the disaster. Students observed a moment of silence and offered prayers for the safety and recovery of impacted residents.

As Business Transactions Grow More Complex, BCA Strengthens Cash Management Services

PT Bank Central Asia Tbk (BCA) is enhancing its cash management services to meet the increasingly dynamic transaction needs of corporate clients. The bank is developing digital services and banking systems to support operational efficiency for business customers. BCA is also running a customer appreciation programme with prizes including a Mercedes-Benz and hybrid vehicles.

Ahead of NU Congress, Gus Ipul urges participants not to be swayed by hoaxes

Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU) Secretary General Saifullah Yusuf has called on all participants of the 35th NU Congress to remain calm and avoid being influenced by hoaxes and misinformation circulating on social media. He emphasised the importance of respecting ulama, kiai, and teachers, and warned against statements that demean religious leaders. The congress is scheduled to take place at Bahrul Ulum Tambakberas Islamic Boarding School in Jombang, East Java, from 27–31 August 2026.

Viral: District Head in East Manggarai Outraged Over Disaster Aid Distribution

A district head in East Manggarai, NTT, has gone viral after a heated exchange with BNPB officials over what he called unfair and insufficient distribution of post-earthquake aid. He demanded transparency and needs-based allocation, while BNPB acknowledged ongoing logistical challenges and reported rising casualty figures.

KAMMI Declares Stance Against Provocative Efforts to Divide the Nation

The Indonesian Muslim Students Action Union (KAMMI) has publicly rejected a planned protest by the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB) at the DPR building on 27 August 2026, warning that it could provoke national division. KAMMI urged citizens to focus on humanitarian missions amid ongoing disasters in NTT and Kalimantan, while acknowledging the constitutional right to free expression.

Facing Protests, Garut Regent Promises Repair of Banjarwangi Road Left Damaged for 11 Years

Garut Regent Abdusy Syakur Amin has pledged to accelerate repairs to the Banjarwangi–Singajaya–Cipendeuy road following protests by residents over its poor condition for the past 11 years. The local government will carry out patching works in the short term and has allocated Rp2.5 billion in 2026 for the 6.5-kilometre Presidential Instruction on Regional Roads programme, with completion targeted by 2027.

Government assures acceleration of NTT earthquake and Kalimantan forest fire handling

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has confirmed the government is accelerating post-earthquake handling in East Nusa Tenggara and forest and land fire mitigation in Kalimantan. The forest fires are disrupting economic activity in affected areas, prompting the deployment of over 12,000 personnel and additional water sources. The Finance Ministry has also disbursed Rp44 billion for emergency disaster response in NTT.

Deputy Foreign Minister Anis Matta Warns Asia Faces Energy Crisis Due to Hybrid War

Deputy Foreign Minister Muhammad Anis Matta has warned that Asia, including Indonesia, faces a potential energy crisis and economic pressure from escalating global hybrid warfare. He highlighted the region's vulnerability due to its dependence on Middle Eastern oil imports and the risk of supply disruptions through strategic chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz. Anis stressed the importance of domestic stability to attract investment amid global uncertainty.

5 Facts About Unsoed Rector Caught in KPK Sting Operation Over Medical Faculty Admission Bribes

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested the Rector of Jenderal Soedirman University (Unsoed), Akhmad Sodiq, along with 13 others in a sting operation related to alleged bribery in new student admissions to the medical faculty. Two vice-rectors were also detained, and investigators seized hundreds of millions of rupiah. The KPK has sealed the rectorate's third floor as the investigation continues.

Mutiara Sani invites young people to explore Asrul Sani's ideas

Mutiara Sani, widow of the late Indonesian literary and film figure Asrul Sani, has called on younger generations to engage with his ideas and creative legacy. Speaking at the opening of an exhibition at Taman Ismail Marzuki, she urged that the event should not be a fleeting tribute but a prompt to read, understand, and revive the values he championed. The exhibition, organised by the Jakarta Arts Council, features archives and documentation of Asrul Sani's contributions to Indonesian culture and cinema.

BSI sustainable financing reaches Rp78.6 trillion in Q2 2026

PT Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) reported sustainable financing of Rp78.6 trillion as of the second quarter of 2026, representing 23.1 per cent of its total financing portfolio. The bank also highlighted its first sustainability-linked financing facility in Indonesia, worth Rp1.5 trillion for the Bali Mandara Toll Road. BSI's net profit grew 11.08 per cent year-on-year to Rp4.16 trillion, supported by strong growth in third-party funds and total financing.

Ahead of NU Congress, voter list preparation reaches 95 percent

The Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU) reports that preparation of the permanent voter list for the 35th NU Congress has reached around 95 percent and is expected to be finalised by the end of the week. The congress is scheduled to take place at Bahrul Ulum Tambakberas Islamic Boarding School in Jombang, East Java, from 27–31 August 2026. PBNU has also invited President Prabowo Subianto to attend the opening ceremony.

Public Works Ministry Confirms Barito River Still Navigable

The Ministry of Public Works has confirmed that the main channel of the Barito River in Central Kalimantan remains navigable despite a drop in water levels during the dry season. Direct monitoring by the Kalimantan III River Basin Agency found the main channel still has water flow about 100 metres wide. The ministry urged the public not to rely on a single video angle that made the river appear dried up.

Saudi Arabia Acquires US Gaming Giant EA for Rp 972 Trillion

Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, alongside a consortium including Jared Kushner's Affinity Partners and Silver Lake, has completed the acquisition of Electronic Arts for US$55 billion. The deal takes the publisher of EA Sports FC private after 36 years as a publicly listed company. The acquisition reflects Saudi Arabia's aggressive push into gaming and entertainment under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Minister: KMP Bontang Express II caught fire in Ketapang while 'off'

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has confirmed that the passenger ferry KMP Bontang Express II caught fire while not in operation near Ketapang Port, Banyuwangi, East Java. The blaze, suspected to have been caused by an electrical short circuit from a fan, was extinguished within 30 minutes by the crew. No casualties were reported as the vessel was empty at the time.

Gorontalo High Prosecutor's Office Detains KONI Chairman as Suspect in PON Grant Fund Corruption

The Gorontalo High Prosecutor's Office has detained the chairman of the provincial National Sports Committee (KONI) and three other suspects over alleged corruption involving grant funds for the 2024 National Games (PON). Investigators estimate state losses of approximately Rp2.3 billion from irregularities in the use of the Rp25 billion grant. The suspects are charged under the new Criminal Code, with the KONI chairman allegedly receiving Rp885 million in illicit funds.

Police Guarantee Search Warrant for Ex-Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie's Sentul Home Is Valid

The Indonesian National Police have defended the legality of the search conducted at the Sentul residence of former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah. Police officials and a criminal law expert stated that the search warrants issued by the South Jakarta and Cibinong District Courts were valid, even though the search was carried out outside the Polda Metro Jaya's usual jurisdiction. They argued that under the new Criminal Procedure Code, court-approved coercive measures can no longer be challenged through pre-trial motions.

Baznas and GPI to Strengthen Zakat Management and Community Empowerment

Indonesia's National Zakat Agency (Baznas) and the Islamic Youth Movement (GPI) have agreed to explore collaboration on zakat governance and community empowerment programmes. The partnership will focus on initiatives such as pocket Qur'an waqf, mangrove planting, scholarships, and a Mualaf Centre. Baznas has also offered to help GPI build professional fundraising capacity.

South Jakarta Immigration Brings Passport Services to Sudirman Car Free Day

The South Jakarta Immigration Office has introduced passport services at the Sudirman Car Free Day area to make public services more accessible. The 'Pasporia' initiative also includes consultations on stay permits for foreign nationals and free health checks. Officials say the move aims to bring immigration services closer to the public without disrupting their weekend activities.

24 million kindergarten children in China benefit from free education policy

China's finance ministry has reported that around 24 million kindergarten children are benefiting from a policy waiving education and childcare fees for the final year of preschool. More than 25 million infants and toddlers under three have also received childcare subsidies for 2026. The measures form part of broader efforts to build a birth-friendly society amid declining birth rates and an ageing population.

Profile of Prof. Akhmad Sodiq, Rector of Unsoed for the 2026-2030 Period

Prof. Akhmad Sodiq, Rector of Universitas Jenderal Soedirman (Unsoed), has been arrested by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in a sting operation, along with two vice-rectors. The arrests are linked to alleged bribery in the admission of new students to the university's Faculty of Medicine. Sodiq, a professor of animal husbandry, was inaugurated for his second term as rector on 21 August 2026.

Febrie Pretrial: Expert Calls Money Laundering a Follow-Up Crime

A criminal law expert testified in the South Jakarta District Court that money laundering cannot stand alone without a predicate offence, supporting former junior attorney general Febrie Adriansyah's pretrial motion. The Attorney General's Office maintains that the suspect determination already clearly cites corruption as the predicate crime and that money laundering investigations need not await proof of the underlying offence.

Strengthening Sales Force Competence Vital for Life Insurance

BRI Life is emphasising the importance of enhancing the competence and professionalism of its sales force to support sustainable growth in Indonesia's life insurance industry. The company's 1,693 licensed agents secured six awards at the Top Agent & Distribution Excellence Awards 2026, reflecting their dedication and professionalism. The achievement underscores BRI Life's commitment to developing human resources and improving customer service.

Rajiv Urges Finance Ministry to Disburse Rp290.9 Billion Budget to Prevent Forest and Land Fires

House Commission IV member Rajiv has called on the Ministry of Finance to immediately release Rp290.9 billion in operational funds for forest and land fire prevention and mitigation. He stressed that the fires have already affected public health, education, transport and economic activity, with conditions worsened by the El Niño dry spell. The budget was agreed during a working meeting between Commission IV and the Forestry Minister on 18 August.

Bang Japar Reaffirms Commitment to Safeguarding Jakarta

Fahira Idris, chairwoman of Bang Japar and a senator for Jakarta, has reaffirmed the organisation's long-term commitment to protecting the capital through community empowerment, public order, and social solidarity. The group will join the Aliansi Masyarakat Jakarta in a readiness assembly on 27 August 2026, which she stressed is not aimed at confronting any party. She also urged residents to avoid provocation from unverified information and to maintain peaceful democratic discourse.

Whitesky targets becoming Indonesia's largest eVTOL operator

PT Whitesky Aviation Group plans to develop up to 200 electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft by 2036 as part of its Advanced Air Mobility expansion. The company aims to build complete operating capabilities, including infrastructure, maintenance, safety and human capital, rather than simply assembling a large fleet. Whitesky sees Indonesia's geographic character as a major opportunity for eVTOL development across economic centres, industrial zones and strategic destinations.

KAMMI rejects planned protest on 27 August 2026

The Indonesian Muslim Students Action Union (KAMMI) has publicly opposed a planned demonstration by the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB) at the DPR/MPR building on 27 August 2026. KAMMI argues the protest risks public order and national unity, particularly after AMPB representatives allegedly threatened to take MPs hostage. The organisation urges civil society to pursue demands such as the Asset Forfeiture Bill through constitutional channels.

Barito River Dries Up Like a Desert, River Transport Nearly Paralysed

The Barito River in Central Kalimantan has receded dramatically due to an extreme dry season, with water levels at Muara Teweh dropping to just 0.6 metres from a normal range of 5 to 11.5 metres. The resulting sandbanks have halted large vessels and coal barges, severely disrupting transport, logistics, and the regional economy. BMKG warns that if the trend continues, it could reduce the contribution of mining and plantation sectors to regional GDP.

US Furious! Trump Prepares Toughest Sanctions in Iran's History

The United States is preparing to intensify economic pressure on Iran, with President Donald Trump threatening sanctions against any country that continues to support Tehran. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described the strategy as an 'Economic D-Day', combining a naval blockade with what he called the harshest sanctions in history. The article also traces the history of US sanctions against Iran dating back to the 1979 hostage crisis.

Pati Community Alliance to Rally at DPR Next Week, Seeks to Give Input to Puan

The Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB) plans to demonstrate outside the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) on 27 August 2026 to demand the immediate passage of the Asset Forfeiture Bill. The group also hopes to meet DPR Speaker Puan Maharani, citing her public statement that the bill's enactment awaited public input. Demonstrators are additionally calling for the death penalty for corruptors and may stay overnight if their demands are not addressed.

The other side of Adam Malik through brushstrokes

An exhibition at the Museum of Fine Arts and Ceramics in Jakarta showcases 22 paintings from the private collection of Adam Malik, Indonesia's former vice president and co-founder of ANTARA news agency. The display reveals Malik's deep friendships with key modern Indonesian artists and highlights how his collection captured the nation's social and political transitions. The exhibition also marks the 50th anniversary of the museum's predecessor institution.

Indonesia and Germany Expand Investment, Vocational Education, and Energy Transition Opportunities

Indonesia and Germany are strengthening their economic partnership, with discussions covering investment, renewable energy, semiconductors, and vocational education. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto highlighted cumulative German investment of USD1.23 billion from 2021 to 2026 and expressed hope that the Indonesia-EU CEPA can be signed this year. Germany also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting sustainable development in Indonesia, particularly in renewable energy.

Cuba condemns new US sanctions against officials and entities

Cuba's foreign minister has denounced Washington's expanded sanctions on Cuban officials and entities, accusing the United States of trying to strangle the island's economy. The measures target the Cuban Institute of Friendship with Peoples and key firms in metals, mining, trade and labour services. Havana says the escalation follows US threats that Cuba would be 'next' after military action against Venezuela and Iran.

Jakarta Volunteer Dies While Distributing Aid to NTT Earthquake Victims

Ahmad Zaki Ali, a 41-year-old volunteer from Jakarta and founder of the Gerak Bareng Foundation, died of a heart attack while delivering aid to earthquake victims in East Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara. The death toll from the M 7.7 earthquake that struck Flores has risen to 83, with hundreds more injured. East Manggarai remains the worst-affected district, with 670 people impacted and 70 fatalities.

Police Uncover Online Fraud Syndicate Posing as TNI for Car Sales

West Java Police's Cyber Crime Directorate has dismantled an online fraud syndicate from Sidrap, South Sulawesi, arresting 12 suspects. The group sold cars on Facebook while impersonating members of the Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI) to gain victims' trust. Police received complaints in late July and traced the operation to Sidrap, where arrests were made on 12 August.

Indonesia and EU Target Signing of IEU CEPA in October 2026

Indonesia and the European Union are accelerating efforts to sign the Indonesia-EU Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU CEPA) by October 2026. The agreement is expected to eliminate tariffs on 90.4% of tariff lines immediately upon implementation, boosting Indonesian exports and attracting European investment. Both sides are preparing ratification mechanisms, with Indonesia planning to use a presidential regulation for faster implementation.

WSJ: US employer healthcare costs projected to see largest increase

US employers expect healthcare costs for their workers to rise by 11.1 per cent in 2027, the highest increase in more than two decades, according to a WTW survey cited by the Wall Street Journal. Workers are also bearing higher costs, with average out-of-pocket healthcare expenses projected to reach $5,297 in 2026. Rising hospital costs, increased use of medical services, expensive cancer treatments, and greater use of GLP-1 drugs are driving the increase.

LPEI case: eight defendants sentenced to up to 13 years in prison

Prosecutors have demanded prison sentences ranging from eight and a half to 13 years for eight defendants in a corruption case involving export financing at the Indonesian Eximbank (LPEI) between 2015 and 2020. The case centres on unlawful disbursements to PT Tebo Indah and PT Pratama Agro Sawit, causing state losses of approximately Rp992.82 billion. Two defendants also face additional penalties including repayment of hundreds of billions of rupiah.

PGN supports Suadesa Festival 2026 in Sleman to expand village MSME market access

PT Perusahaan Gas Negara Tbk (PGN) is backing the Suadesa Festival 2026 in Sleman, Yogyakarta, as part of its corporate social responsibility programme to broaden market access for village-based micro, small and medium enterprises. The festival, scheduled for 22–23 August 2026, will involve 35 local MSMEs and 75 arts and community performers. PGN hopes the event will spark sustainable economic independence for rural communities by connecting local potential with wider business ecosystems.

Yaqut's camp: Prosecutors misinterpreted hajj financing and quota allocation

The defence team for former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas argues that KPK prosecutors have conflated two separate decisions: the government's hajj financing agreement with the DPR and the configuration of additional hajj quota allocation. They contend that DPR authority over quota configuration only exists under the new Hajj Law, and that quota distribution serves broader national interests, including safety and bilateral relations with Saudi Arabia.

Foreign Ministry: MIKTA visit to TNI Peacekeeping Mission Centre shows commitment to world peace

Representatives from the five MIKTA nations visited the Indonesian Armed Forces Peacekeeping Mission Centre in Sentul, West Java, to demonstrate their shared commitment to global peace. The visit included paying respects to fallen peacekeepers and observing pre-deployment training for Indonesian personnel. Indonesian officials emphasised the country's constitutional mandate to contribute to world order through foreign policy and military participation in peacekeeping missions.

Indian tycoon's giant Vantara zoo announces 'reset', rethinks imports

Vantara, the vast animal rescue centre founded by Anant Ambani, has announced a major operational reset under former CITES head John Scanlon, shifting away from importing animals towards supporting in-situ conservation in their countries of origin. The move follows criticism over its rapid acquisition of protected species and a CITES recommendation for serious reforms, with Vantara pledging a moratorium on imports until June 2027. The facility, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2025, will now focus on strengthening rescue centres and conservation programmes globally, including proposed elephant care projects in Indonesia.

Instagram Boss Addresses Engagement Drop When Editing Videos with CapCut

Instagram head Adam Mosseri has clarified that using third-party editing apps such as CapCut will not penalise users, as the platform wants a smooth creative process. However, videos bearing watermarks from other applications will see their ranking reduced to prevent Instagram from becoming a promotional space for rival editing tools.

Six European leaders condemn Israeli settlement draft in West Bank

The leaders of France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway and the United Kingdom have jointly condemned Israel's decision to issue tenders for the E1 settlement project in the West Bank. They described the move as unacceptable, warning that it would sever the West Bank, undermine the contiguity of Palestinian territory and weaken prospects for a two-state solution. The leaders also cautioned companies against participating in the construction tenders, citing potential legal and reputational consequences.

Strengthening Human Capital Transformation, WIKA Wins 2 Awards at Indonesia Human Capital Awards 2026

PT Wijaya Karya (Persero) Tbk (WIKA) has received two awards at the Indonesia Human Capital Awards XII 2026, recognising its human capital transformation efforts. The state-owned construction firm was honoured for Best HC Director 2026 and Best of Company in Human Capital 2026. The awards underscore WIKA's commitment to building an agile, productive and future-ready workforce aligned with its corporate transformation agenda.

Drowning Victim in Kuantan River Found Dead

A 17-year-old boy who went missing while swimming in the Kuantan River in Kuantan Singingi Regency, Riau, has been found dead after a two-day search. The joint SAR team located the victim approximately 800 metres downstream from where he was last seen. The body has been evacuated to Teluk Kuantan Regional General Hospital for further handling.

Vice President seeks to help students from earthquake-hit areas continue education

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming has pledged to find scholarships for university students from earthquake-affected areas in East Nusa Tenggara who are studying outside the region. The commitment came after he spoke with survivors at an evacuation post in East Manggarai, where residents raised concerns about their children's education and their ability to repay loans. The Vice President said he first needs data identifying affected families before assistance can be arranged.

BRI Group Gold Ecosystem Reaches 153 Tonnes, Supporting Optimisation of National Gold Potential

BRI Group's ultra-micro holding, together with Pegadaian, has grown its managed gold ecosystem to 153 tonnes, spanning gold savings, pawning, instalments, deposits, financing, bullion trading and corporate gold custody. The initiative aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's emphasis on the strategic role of a bullion bank in optimising national wealth. BRI, Pegadaian and PNM plan to deepen ecosystem integration and broaden access to gold-based financial services.

BRI Group Wins Six International Awards from Finance Asia, Strengthening Position as World-Class Financial Institution

BRI Group has secured six accolades at the Asia's Best Companies and Finance Asia Awards 2026, underscoring its global competitiveness. The awards recognise the bank's leadership, business transformation, and commitment to financial inclusion. BRI's CEO Hery Gunardi was named Best CEO, while the group also received honours for ESG commitment, investor relations, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Bogor Commuter Line Services Held at Manggarai Due to Street Brawl

Commuter Line services on the Bogor–Jakarta Kota route were temporarily halted on Friday afternoon after a street brawl broke out near a level crossing at Manggarai Station. KAI Commuter prioritised passenger safety, with 14 train journeys delayed while authorities secured the area. Passengers were advised to follow staff instructions and monitor updates through official channels.

Norway raises tariff concerns with US officials

Norway has formally expressed its concerns to the United States over tariffs imposed on Norwegian exports, arguing there is no basis for treating it differently from the European Union. The discussions also covered a possible bilateral trade agreement, though Oslo stressed it would not sign a deal at any cost.

Legislator considers sale of former KRI Ki Hajar Dewantara a sound move

A member of House Commission I has backed the government's plan to sell the decommissioned warship KRI Ki Hajar Dewantara, citing high maintenance costs and safety risks. The proposal was formally submitted by President Prabowo Subianto and will be deliberated by the defence commission.

US Withdraws Aircraft Carrier from Asia to Iran, Allies Wary of China

The United States has redeployed its last aircraft carrier in Asia, USS George Washington, from Japan to the Middle East amid the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict, raising concerns among regional allies about Washington's ability to deter China. Analysts note that while the move is symbolically significant, other strategic assets remain in the Pacific and the US is unlikely to abandon Asia permanently.

MSME Minister Appreciates App Developer's Efforts to Improve Driver Partner Capacity

Minister of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Maman Abdurrahman has praised Grab Indonesia for expanding access to learning and skills development for its driver and merchant partners through GrabAcademy. He emphasised that 'moving up a class' should be understood as broadening capabilities and choices rather than leaving one's current profession. The programme has reached over 1.15 million driver partners in 2025, with more than 204,000 completing all mandatory modules.

Morphosyntax: The Invisible Engine of Daily Communication

The article examines how morphosyntax, the linguistic system governing word formation and sentence structure, underpins clarity and diplomacy in everyday communication. It highlights research linking poor communication to significant productivity losses and workplace conflict, and argues for strengthening applied morphosyntactic literacy in education and public life.

NTT Police Chief Visits Ngada Earthquake Victims, Distributes 150 Food Packages

East Nusa Tenggara Police Chief Inspector General Rudi Darmoko visited earthquake victims in Ngada Regency on Friday, inspecting evacuation sites and assessing preparations for a planned presidential visit. During the visit, he distributed 150 basic food packages to displaced residents in Tadho Tengah village. The police chief also offered encouragement to the community, urging them to remain resilient and vigilant.

Flights to Muhammad Sidik Muara Teweh Airport cancelled again due to thick haze

Flights to and from Haji Muhammad Sidik Airport in Muara Teweh, North Barito Regency, Central Kalimantan, have been cancelled for three consecutive days due to thick smoke haze reducing visibility to unsafe levels. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) reported visibility ranging from 1.5 to 4 kilometres and detected numerous hotspots across Central Kalimantan, though the exact source of the haze affecting Muara Teweh remains unconfirmed.

Ministry of Human Rights oversees agreement in Lelayang villagers and PT Mayawana dispute

Indonesia's Ministry of Human Rights is facilitating a phased settlement of a 16-year land dispute between Lelayang villagers and PT Mayawana Persada in West Kalimantan. A multi-party meeting produced commitments including a compensation scheme for affected residents and restorative justice for a customary leader. The ministry stressed that the resolution must respect indigenous rights and human rights principles.

Satpol PP detains couple who forced other people's children to become street buskers in North Jakarta

Public order officers in North Jakarta have detained a married couple suspected of exploiting two children, aged eight and nine, by forcing them to work as street buskers and scavengers. The children were not the couple's own and have since been returned to their biological mother in good health. Authorities plan to provide protection and enrol the children in school to prevent further trauma and repeat exploitation.

PLN Aceh launches Disaster Recovery Center to safeguard electricity reliability

State electricity firm PLN has established an integrated Disaster Recovery Center in Aceh to ensure power supply continuity and accelerate restoration during emergencies. The facility is coordinated with regional disaster agencies and follows the collapse of 14 high-voltage transmission towers during extreme weather in late November 2025. PLN is also relocating vulnerable transmission infrastructure and building new 275 kV backbone networks to strengthen the province's grid resilience.

France Investigates Suspected Russian Disinformation Operation Targeting Gabriel Attal

French authorities are investigating a series of suspected Russian disinformation operations targeting Renaissance party leader and presidential candidate Gabriel Attal. The latest incidents bring the total to four alleged operations against the former prime minister within two weeks. Legal complaints have been filed by Attal and other political figures over foreign interference.

Kuningan Regency receives Rp1.48 billion JIAT well grant

The Kuningan Regency Government in West Java has received a state asset grant in the form of a groundwater irrigation network well valued at Rp1.48 billion. The asset, located in Ciawi Lor Village, is intended to support agricultural irrigation and food security in the region. The grant aligns with Presidential Instruction No. 2 of 2025 on accelerating irrigation network development to support food self-sufficiency.

Understanding Implied Meaning: A Vital Skill in the Era of Fast Information

The article explores the importance of understanding implied meaning in human communication, arguing that it is a crucial cognitive and life skill in the modern era. It discusses the pragmatic mechanisms behind implied meaning, its role in social diplomacy, and the challenges posed by digital communication. The piece also offers strategies for sharpening interpretive sensitivity to build more precise, adaptive, and empathetic interactions.

Minister prioritises student safety amid Kalimantan forest fires

Primary and Secondary Education Minister Abdul Mu'ti has stressed that student health and safety must take priority in areas of Kalimantan affected by forest and land fire haze. He said regional governments may switch to home or distance learning if conditions do not allow face-to-face teaching. The ministry is also responding to the impact of a significant earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara.

From Prison Nurse to Head of Work Activities: The Transformation of Garut Prison

Asep Supriatna, a 21-year veteran of Garut Prison, reflects on the institution's evolution from a security-focused facility to one that prioritises inmate rehabilitation and economic independence. He highlights improvements in healthcare, the expansion of work programmes, and a shift in mindset among prison officers. The changes are attributed to inter-ministerial cooperation and recent policy directives from the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections.

Ministry of Human Rights Breaks World Record for Largest Human Rights Lesson

Indonesia's Ministry of Human Rights has broken a Guinness World Record for the largest human rights lesson, surpassing a record previously held by Ecuadorian police since 2018. The achievement was confirmed after a mass education and outreach programme involving around 6,000 participants across several provinces. Minister Natalius Pigai said the recognition reflects the ministry's commitment to building human rights awareness nationwide.

Insurance Performance Strengthens, Service Revenue Reaches Rp1 Trillion

PT Asuransi Tri Pakarta reported service revenue of Rp1.027 trillion for January–July 2026, up 13.9% year-on-year and exceeding its target. The company's risk-based capital ratio also improved to 144.29%, while it signed new bancassurance partnerships with two banks and a cooperative council. Tripa is also advancing its digital transformation with a soft launch of its website and mobile apps.

Exploring Diverse Aromas Through a Sensory Experience at Secret Garden Parascentalia

Indonesian fragrance brand Secret Garden is hosting a sensory exhibition at Central Park Mall in Jakarta to help visitors discover scents that match their personalities. The event showcases local wellness products and aims to build pride in Indonesian brands amid competition from foreign products. The company's CEO emphasised that local products meet international standards and called for strategic government support to help local brands expand nationally and globally.

Around 85-90 percent of Ciniru landfill area burned in Kuningan

A major fire has destroyed an estimated 85 to 90 percent of the Ciniru final waste disposal site in Kuningan Regency, West Java. The local environmental agency is still investigating the cause and has not ruled out any possibilities. Officials say the priority now is to improve waste management practices to reduce future fire risks.

Agincourt Resources develops mycorrhizal bioagents to boost mine land reclamation

Agincourt Resources is developing mycorrhizal fungi as biological agents to improve the success of land reclamation and restoration around the Martabe Gold Mine in South Tapanuli, North Sumatra. The company has increased spore density from under 100 to 400–1,000 spores per 100 grams of soil through enrichment processes. The programme aims to support local plant nurseries and reduce reliance on fertilisers in land recovery.

QRIS reaches 65.77 mln users, accepted by 44.86 mln merchants: BI

Bank Indonesia reports that the QRIS payment system now has 65.77 million users and is accepted by 44.86 million merchants, positioning it as a key entry point for MSMEs into the digital financial ecosystem. The central bank is pursuing digital transformation through e-farming, e-commerce, and e-financing initiatives, supported by the Indonesian Digital Innovation Centre. BI aims to accelerate MSME digitalisation to boost productivity, expand market access, and strengthen financing opportunities.

Iran's Pezeshkian says war must end while Tehran is in a strong and dignified position

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has defended the latest agreement between Tehran and Washington, calling it a major achievement approved by Iran's Supreme National Security Council. He rejected criticism that Iran made concessions and insisted the country would not submit to intimidation. Pezeshkian argued the current situation offers the right moment to end the war from a position of strength and dignity.

Indonesia ready to welcome advanced air mobility era, says Ministry of Transportation

Indonesia's Ministry of Transportation has declared the country ready to embrace advanced air mobility, citing experience with over 10,000 registered drones. The government is coordinating across ministries and supporting local developers such as PT Vela Prima Nusantara, whose VELA Alpha hybrid aircraft is now undergoing certification. Regulatory frameworks covering airworthiness, pilot licensing, airspace use, and cybersecurity are being prepared to support the new technology.

Fire breaks out again at Jakarta Regional Revenue Agency building

A fire broke out on the 11th floor archive room of the Jakarta Regional Revenue Agency (Bapenda) building in Central Jakarta on Friday afternoon. Firefighters deployed eight units and 30 personnel to contain the blaze. This follows a larger fire at the same building earlier in August.

West Java targets Youth Development Index of 90 by 2029

The West Java provincial government aims to raise its Youth Development Index from 62.96 to 90 by 2029. Regional Secretary Herman Suryatman stressed that improving education, health, employment, political participation and equality for young people requires collaboration between government and youth organisations. He urged the newly formed KNPI West Java leadership to take a strategic role in achieving the goal.

Bank Indonesia's Karya Kreatif Indonesia 2026 Opens in Jakarta, BI Tegal Participates

Bank Indonesia has launched Karya Kreatif Indonesia (KKI) 2026 at the Jakarta International Convention Center, showcasing over 550 MSMEs in person and more than 1,300 online. The event aims to strengthen MSMEs through capacity building, financing access, digitalisation, and market expansion, with a particular focus on regions affected by natural disasters. BI Tegal is participating with nine textile MSMEs from the former Pekalongan Residency, recording Rp1.188 billion in transactions on the first day.

Surabaya City Government Strengthens Waste Reduction at Source through Pisang Danor Programme

The Surabaya city government has launched the Pisang Danor programme to encourage households to sort and process organic and inorganic waste before disposal. Mayor Eri Cahyadi said reducing waste must start with changing community behaviour, as organic waste is the largest component and can be processed at home. The initiative aims to cut tipping fees at Benowo landfill and redirect savings to priority programmes such as free education.

Freeport Indonesia Provides Nutritious Meals at Papua Boarding School

PT Freeport Indonesia is providing free nutritious meals to students at the Taruna Papua Boarding School as part of its social investment in education. The programme includes five meals daily and is supported by a dedicated kitchen with strict quality control. The company aims to develop outstanding human resources in Papua through improved nutrition and a enhanced curriculum.

World Condemns Israel's Plan to Build Illegal E1 Settlement in the West Bank

The international community has strongly condemned Israel's plan to build over 1,200 new homes in the illegal E1 settlement project in the occupied West Bank. Seven European nations plus Canada issued a joint statement calling the move unacceptable and warning of legal and reputational consequences. The project is seen as a strategic effort to divide the West Bank and undermine the viability of a contiguous Palestinian state.

Indonesia-Malaysia border post Temajuk-Telok Melano officially reactivated

Indonesia has officially reactivated the Temajuk-Telok Melano cross-border post in West Kalimantan, restoring a formal crossing point for communities on both sides of the Indonesia-Malaysia border. The move follows the 2023 Border Crossing Agreement and is expected to boost economic, social, cultural, trade, and tourism links. The government also sees potential for developing the area into a maritime tourism corridor and an integrated border economic zone.

Indonesian Students Experience Palestine Day at the Palestinian Embassy in Jakarta

Sixty Indonesian junior and senior high school students took part in Palestine Day at the Palestinian Embassy in Jakarta, an event held to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The programme combined educational games, exhibitions, and cultural activities to introduce Palestinian cities and current realities. Students received symbolic Palestinian passports and engaged in activities designed to build awareness and solidarity.

USS George Washington Arrives in Middle East to Replace USS Abraham Lincoln Amid Crew Welfare Concerns

The US military has deployed the USS George Washington carrier strike group to the Middle East to relieve the USS Abraham Lincoln, which has been operating in the region since January. The move follows media reports of deteriorating conditions aboard the Lincoln, including food shortages, sanitation problems, and mental health concerns among crew members. President Trump had ordered the replacement after the reports drew criticism in Washington.

Police arrest several suspects in Central Kalimantan forest and land fires

Indonesian police have arrested several individuals suspected of involvement in forest and land fires in Central Kalimantan. Around 12 people have been named as suspects following investigations into the incidents. Authorities are continuing to examine the causes and identify those responsible.

Solar Energy Association Supports 30 GW First Phase of National Solar Power Development

The Indonesian Solar Energy Association (AESI) has pledged support for accelerating the development of 30 gigawatts of national solar power capacity as the first phase of a 100 GW project. AESI has formed four task forces covering the 100 GW roadmap, rooftop solar, independent power producers, and green workforce development. The association is also exploring cooperation with the Ministry of Cooperatives to use village cooperative networks as service centres for solar installations.

Gajah Tunggal Opens First Giti Tyre Store in South Jakarta

PT Gajah Tunggal Tbk has opened its first Giti tyre store in South Jakarta in partnership with Halo Ban. The store aims to introduce the Giti brand to a wider Indonesian audience and offers premium tyres along with maintenance and consultation services. The company says the outlet is supported by professional technicians and equipment for tyre fitting, wheel alignment, and balancing.

KMP Bontang Ekspress II Catches Fire While Docked in Banyuwangi Waters

A passenger ferry, KMP Bontang Ekspress II, caught fire while docked in the waters off Ketapang, Banyuwangi, on Friday afternoon. The blaze, believed to have been caused by an electrical short circuit, was extinguished by the crew with assistance from nearby vessels. No casualties were reported, though material damage occurred to the nursing room on the vessel's upper deck.

Nagekeo Health Workers' Stories of Caring for Patients Amid Aftershocks

Health workers at Aeramo Regional General Hospital in Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara, continue to treat patients despite ongoing aftershocks following the earthquake. Many medical staff, including nurse Maria Rosari Tjeme, are themselves earthquake victims whose homes were destroyed. The hospital director has allowed affected staff to take rest days to recover and attend to their families.

LRT Jabodebek records highest monthly ridership in nearly three years

LRT Jabodebek served 3.06 million passengers in July 2026, the highest monthly figure since the light rail service began operating in August 2023. Total ridership for the first seven months of 2026 reached 19.08 million, up about 21% compared with the same period last year. Harjamukti Station in Depok was the busiest station during the month.

Dozens of Flores Earthquake Refugees Suffer from Diarrhoea

Dozens of earthquake refugees in Reo, Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, have contracted diarrhoea, with 31 cases reported at the Barongkolong evacuation post. Health workers have been treating patients, mostly children, but the post is severely short of functioning toilets, with only one portable toilet serving over 1,500 displaced people. The situation is compounded by ongoing aftershocks, forcing some refugees to return to their damaged homes to use toilet facilities.

Minister confirms digital transport regulation will govern partnership between online motorcycle taxi drivers and app companies

The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises will oversee the development, empowerment, protection and supervision of partnership relations between online motorcycle taxi drivers and application companies under a forthcoming presidential regulation. The government aims to help drivers grow beyond transport income by enabling them to develop other micro businesses. Details of the partnership arrangements will be explained more comprehensively after the regulation is enacted.

Indonesia targets Bahasa Indonesia as official UN language by 2045

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education aims to elevate Bahasa Indonesia to official language status at the United Nations by 2045, coinciding with the centenary of Indonesian independence. The language programme for foreign speakers is now offered in 62 countries, reflecting growing global interest. A dedicated class for diplomats in Jakarta has attracted 181 participants from 67 foreign missions and international organisations.

Half of Ebola deaths in DR Congo occurred in last 20 days, says UN official

A senior UN coordinator has warned that the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo is spreading rapidly, with half of all recorded deaths occurring in the past 20 days. Julien Harneis said additional resources are urgently needed to control the outbreak in a region already affected by decades of armed conflict. The outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain, for which no approved vaccine or treatment currently exists.

Chinese Defence Minister: Indonesia Must Be Strong to Counter Regional Threats

Chinese Defence Minister Admiral Dong Jun has emphasised the importance of modernising Indonesia's and China's national defence systems to counter regional threats. Following a meeting with Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin in Jakarta, both sides agreed to deepen military cooperation and accelerate defence modernisation. The ministers expressed confidence that bilateral defence relations can be elevated to a higher level under the direction of their respective heads of state.

ITB Study: Jabodetabek Air Pollution Requires Cross-Sector Handling

A new study from the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) finds that air pollution in the Greater Jakarta area cannot be tackled partially and demands integrated collaboration across administrative boundaries. The research maps differing pollution sources across the region, with industry, power plants, and transport as the largest contributors. The findings are intended to guide local governments in formulating air quality protection and management plans under Environment Ministry Regulation No. 5 of 2026.

No J-10 Talk: Indonesia, China to Build Ammunition Factory

Indonesia and China have agreed to jointly build an ammunition factory in Indonesia, with technology transfer covering missiles and rockets, following high-level defence talks in Jakarta. Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin confirmed that state-owned Pindad and Len Industri will participate in the venture, with operations expected to begin by 2027. The announcement came amid clarification that no discussions were held regarding the potential purchase of Chinese J-10 fighter jets.

Google to Buy Shares in Marvell, Founded by Indonesian-born Sehat Sutardja, for Rp 190 Trillion

Alphabet, Google's parent company, has agreed to purchase up to US$12.2 billion worth of shares in Marvell Technology, a semiconductor firm founded by Jakarta-born Sehat Sutardja. The deal will see Marvell supply custom chips for Google's AI infrastructure, including its Tensor Processing Units. The move signals Google's shift towards diversifying its chip suppliers beyond Broadcom.

Citarum River flow shrinks amid prolonged dry season

The Citarum River in West Bandung Regency has seen a significant drop in water levels due to a dry spell lasting about a month. Sediment and waste deposits that were previously submerged are now visible, narrowing parts of the river channel. The river is a key water source for the Saguling Reservoir, drinking water supply, and agricultural irrigation.

Understanding the Prophet's Precious Advice on Patience in Losing Sight

This article discusses Islamic teachings on patience when facing the loss of eyesight, drawing on hadith and examples from pious figures. It emphasises that Allah's reward for those who endure such trials with patience is far greater than what was lost.

West Jakarta Health Office Holds Free Health Check Service for 100 Residents in Cengkareng

The West Jakarta Health Office has provided free health check services for 100 residents in Cengkareng as part of efforts to improve access to healthcare. The initiative was launched alongside a dengue prevention programme using the Wolbachia method. Officials hope residents will take advantage of the free service, which is available at all community health centres in West Jakarta.

Social Ministry Intensifies Emergency Response for Earthquake-Affected Areas in East Nusa Tenggara

The Ministry of Social Affairs is intensifying emergency response efforts across seven districts in East Nusa Tenggara following the earthquake on 15 August 2026. The focus is on meeting basic needs, accelerating logistics distribution, operating public kitchens, and providing psychosocial support. The ministry has distributed 48 tonnes of rice and 13,100 basic food packages, while also preparing additional buffer stock and coordinating with local authorities.

Jakarta Proposes Regional Regulation on Flats to Address Housing Gap

The Jakarta provincial government has proposed a regional regulation on flats (rusun) to address the housing access gap faced by middle-transition residents. The regulation aims to shift development from purely physical property towards public housing that accommodates both low-income and middle-transition groups. It also includes vertical land consolidation to enable urban renewal without evictions.

Former Director of Investigation Testifies in Febrie Adriansyah Pretrial Hearing

A former senior prosecutor has testified in the pretrial hearing of Febrie Adriansyah, describing him as an honest and obedient subordinate. Jasman Panjaitan also explained the internal mechanism for handling corruption cases at the Attorney General's Office, including the mandatory exposure process before naming suspects.

Indonesia and China Hold First Comprehensive Strategic Dialogue

Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held the inaugural Comprehensive Strategic Dialogue in Jakarta. The meeting covered cooperation across economic, maritime, political, socio-cultural, and educational sectors. Both sides agreed to address the partnership comprehensively without focusing on any single issue in detail.

Jakarta Regional Revenue Agency Building Catches Fire Again

The Jakarta Regional Revenue Agency (Bapenda) building on Jalan Abdul Muis caught fire on Friday afternoon, burning the archive room on the 11th floor. Firefighters deployed eight units and 30 personnel to tackle the blaze, though efforts were hampered by the building's malfunctioning water pump. This is the second fire at the building in recent weeks, following a previous incident on 7 August 2026.

Forest and Land Fires Threaten Central Papua, BMKG Detects 279 Hotspots in Nabire

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has reported a sharp rise in hotspots across Central Papua, with 279 detected in Nabire Regency alone between 20-21 August 2026. The total of 512 hotspots province-wide represents a 108.1 per cent increase from the previous monitoring period. Authorities have urged residents to cease open burning and remain vigilant against the spread of forest and land fires.

Pertalite Restriction Plan: Fiscal Savings vs Inflation and Middle-Class Purchasing Power Risks

The government is considering restricting subsidised Pertalite fuel purchases based on socio-economic welfare rankings, potentially saving Rp10–15 trillion annually. However, the policy is still under review, with concerns over data readiness, inflation, and the impact on middle-class purchasing power. Three key areas require attention before implementation: technical and data validity, inflationary effects, and pressure on middle-class households.

DEN calls for overhaul of free meal program management

The National Economic Council has urged a comprehensive overhaul of Indonesia's free meal programme, with Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan calling for data-driven site selection and prioritisation of underdeveloped regions with high stunting rates. He emphasised that hygiene and quality standards must be non-negotiable, praising the closure of 1,300 non-compliant service units. The council will support the programme's digital integration to enable real-time monitoring of the supply chain and performance.

Minister Supratman: Limited dual citizenship proposal prioritises diaspora, not only foreigners

Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas has clarified that the proposed limited dual citizenship scheme for select talent is not intended solely for foreign nationals. He stressed that qualified members of the Indonesian diaspora would be prioritised. The policy remains a proposal and is still open to input for the planned citizenship bill.

Vice President Gibran seeks credit grace period for NTT earthquake victims

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has pledged to arrange a grace period for loan repayments to ease the burden on communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. During a visit to evacuation posts in Manggarai and East Manggarai, he also instructed that patients requiring further treatment be referred to hospitals with adequate facilities. The earthquake has so far killed 83 people and injured 986, according to the national disaster agency.

Sumatra Disaster Task Force Urges Faster Realisation of Recovery Budget

The Sumatra Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Task Force has urged regional governments and ministries to accelerate the realisation of recovery budgets in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra. With only around four months remaining in the 2026 fiscal year, the task force stressed that additional regional transfer funds must be quickly converted into tangible programmes. The government has allocated Rp10.6 trillion in additional regional transfers and around Rp38.9 trillion through additional spending for post-disaster recovery.

Indonesia-China defence cooperation covers ammunition, missiles, and rockets

Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin has outlined two main areas of defence cooperation with China: continuing existing defence industry projects and developing new capabilities in missiles, rockets, and other weapons. The cooperation will involve technology transfer and joint factory construction in Indonesia, with state-owned enterprises Pindad and LEN taking part. Sjafrie stressed that the talks did not cover any US proposal or the Chengdu J-10 fighter jet.

Iran President: We Are in a Strong and Dignified Position to End War with US

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has stated that Tehran is now in a position of strength and dignity to end its months-long war with the United States. He defended the June memorandum of understanding with Washington, rejecting claims that it represents capitulation. Meanwhile, the US is preparing to tighten economic sanctions, a move Iran has condemned as economic terrorism.

Fire breaks out at Jakarta Regional Revenue Agency building

A fire broke out on the 11th floor of the Jakarta Regional Revenue Agency (Bapenda) building on Friday afternoon. Firefighters were able to localise the blaze within 15 minutes, though the building's non-functioning pump hindered the extinguishing process. This is the second fire at the same building in two weeks.

Video: 1% Down Payment Becomes Main Attraction at Danantara Housing Expo

The Danantara Housing Expo is showcasing a range of property options with more affordable financing schemes for the public. State-owned banks under Himbara, including BRI, are providing financing support, with BRI highlighting the expo's advantages such as low down payments, diverse property choices, and tiered interest rate schemes.

Indonesia enters fourth year of zero terror attacks, urges continued vigilance

Indonesia has entered its fourth consecutive year without a terror attack, according to Deputy Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Lodewijk F. Paulus. He called on the public to maintain national vigilance to preserve this achievement. BNPT chief Eddy Hartono credited inter-agency collaboration and noted that 28 planned attacks were foiled over the past four years.

Bogor Regency's Permanent People's School provides free education to 270 students

The Permanent People's School in Jasinga, Bogor Regency, has begun its first academic year with 270 students from disadvantaged backgrounds. The boarding school provides free education, accommodation, meals, uniforms, and learning materials, all funded by the state. The programme targets children from families listed in the Integrated Social Welfare Data, particularly those at risk of dropping out.

Only 64 Percent of Health Workers Registered with BPJS Ketenagakerjaan

BPJS Ketenagakerjaan has revealed that only 64 percent of Indonesia's 969,000 health workers are enrolled in its social protection programmes. Around 300,000 medical personnel remain uncovered by work accident and death insurance, partly due to ambiguous employment relationships. The agency is urging stronger compliance, particularly for doctors practising at multiple institutions.

Different Schemes Prepared to Regulate Online Motorcycle Taxi Services for Passengers and Goods

The Indonesian government is developing separate regulatory schemes for online motorcycle taxi services, distinguishing between passenger transport and goods or food delivery. The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs will oversee goods and food delivery, while the Ministry of Transportation will regulate passenger transport. A fixed commission split of 92% for drivers and 8% for platforms will apply only to passenger services, with more flexible arrangements planned for goods and food delivery.

Putin Reveals Plan to Meet Prabowo in Vladivostok, Russia, in Early September

Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced plans to meet Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto in Vladivostok in early September. The announcement came in Putin's congratulatory message on Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, in which he highlighted the strengthening bilateral relationship. Putin emphasised Russia's commitment to expanding mutually beneficial cooperation with Indonesia across bilateral, BRICS, and ASEAN frameworks.

Hundreds of Junior High School Classrooms in Cianjur Severely Damaged, Disdikpora Carries Out Revitalisation

Hundreds of junior high school classrooms in Cianjur Regency, West Java, are reported to be in a state of severe disrepair. The local government is undertaking phased repairs funded by central and regional budgets, targeting 33 classroom renovations and seven new classrooms this year. Data also reveals significant shortages in supporting facilities such as laboratories and teachers' rooms.

South Tangerang City Government Launches TARA C-MORE Daycare for Employees

The South Tangerang City Government has introduced TARA C-MORE, a daycare facility within the city's government centre, to support employees with childcare needs. The service is designed to provide safe and comfortable care while promoting children's development. Officials say the initiative is part of efforts to create a family-friendly working environment.

Minister targets 50% marketplace service fee discount for MSMEs to start end of August 2026

Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Maman Abdurrahman aims to implement a 50 percent service fee discount for MSMEs selling local products on marketplaces by the end of August 2026. The policy has completed review and revision and is awaiting the signing of a ministerial decree. Technical integration with platforms such as Shopee, Tokopedia and TikTok Shop has reportedly been completed.

Prabowo allocates Rp220 billion for permanent recovery of Batu Busuk in Padang

President Prabowo Subianto has committed Rp220 billion to rebuild the Batu Busuk area in Padang as part of permanent post-disaster recovery for the upper Kuranji river basin. The project is expected to begin in November 2026, with tendering already underway. The funding is part of a broader Rp19 trillion rehabilitation and reconstruction package for West Sumatra.

Hezbollah backs Iran-US talks mediated by Pakistan

Hezbollah's parliamentary bloc has voiced support for the Iran-US negotiations being mediated by Pakistan in Islamabad, saying the process helped halt the war in Lebanon. The group also warned that continued Israeli strikes could trigger Iranian retaliation. Lebanese authorities were criticised for failing to prevent ongoing Israeli attacks in the south.

Medverse Launches End-to-End Digital Health Ecosystem

PT Medika Konsultama Adidayas has launched Medverse, an integrated digital health ecosystem designed to address fragmentation across Indonesia's healthcare industry. The platform aims to connect hospital owners, medical professionals, and new talent through career, education, and operational management solutions. Its features include verified HR supply, continuous professional education, integrated personal health records, and AI-powered business analytics.

Forest Fire Haze in Kalimantan Disrupts Flights at Supadio Airport

Thick haze from forest and land fires in Kalimantan has reduced visibility at Pontianak's Supadio International Airport to below 1,000 metres, forcing the diversion of a Jakarta-Pontianak flight to Batam and delaying five departures. Airport authorities are coordinating with the meteorology agency, AirNav Indonesia, airlines, the national disaster agency and local police to monitor conditions in real time. A joint team has been tackling a four-hectare fire burning for five days within one to two kilometres of the airport.

From QRIS to KKI: Building Sovereignty in Digital Financial Infrastructure

Indonesia is developing its own credit card infrastructure, the Kartu Kredit Indonesia (KKI), to strengthen national sovereignty over digital payments. The article argues that combining KKI with existing systems like QRIS and GPN could create a fourth model of payment sovereignty, distinct from those of India, China, and Europe. It highlights the strategic importance of controlling transaction infrastructure as digital economies grow.

Gilimanuk Port Pier II Closed from 21 August, Here's ASDP's Reason

Pier II at Gilimanuk Port in Jembrana, Bali, has been closed from 21 August 2026 to allow capacity upgrade works ahead of the Christmas and New Year holiday period. The project will increase the pier's load capacity from 20 tonnes to 50 tonnes, enabling it to handle larger trucks. ASDP has prepared special operational schemes to manage traffic flow and prevent vehicle congestion during the closure.

Unhas Disaster Response KKN Team Provides Basic Health Services in East Manggarai

A disaster response team from Hasanuddin University has provided basic health services to residents affected by a disaster in East Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara. The team, which includes student executive body leaders, treated 60 residents and provided wound care to 10 others. The initiative highlights the active role of student organisations in humanitarian missions.

DPR Member Highlights Proposed 2027 Hajj Cost Increase, Calls for Component Evaluation

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has urged the government to ensure efficiency and financial mitigation before raising the 2027 Hajj pilgrimage cost to Rp 107 million. Selly Andriany Gantina called for transparent calculations and a thorough evaluation of accommodation, consumption, and transport components. She also stressed that the use of benefit funds must be managed carefully as they belong to prospective pilgrims still waiting to depart.

Airlangga Says IEU CEPA Will Cut Tariffs on 90 Percent of Indonesian Products to Europe to Zero

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has said the Indonesia-European Union Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement will eliminate tariffs on 90.4 percent of Indonesian tariff lines once implemented. The agreement is expected to boost exports of key commodities such as palm oil, footwear, coffee, furniture, and fisheries products. The government targets signing the deal in October 2026, after which it will proceed to the European Parliament for ratification.

All hotspots and forest fires on Mount Arjuno-Welirang extinguished

The East Java Regional Disaster Management Agency has confirmed that all hotspots and forest fires on Mount Arjuno-Welirang have been extinguished. Ground teams carried out patrols and damping operations to prevent any new fires from emerging. Personnel remain on standby in affected areas to monitor for further smoke or hotspots.

National Police Headquarters confirms legality of search warrant for Febrie Adriansyah's Sentul residence

The National Police Headquarters has affirmed that the search warrant for the Sentul residence of former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah, is legally valid despite being issued by a court outside the search location's jurisdiction. Police legal officials and criminal law experts argued that the unitary nature of the Indonesian police system and court approval override territorial concerns. The search is part of a money laundering investigation involving 74 kilograms of gold and Rp543 billion in cash.

ISS Indonesia urges banks to adopt workplace solutions for lean, smart operations

ISS Indonesia has called on the banking industry to embrace workplace transformation to improve productivity, efficiency and compliance. The company hosted the Banking Connect 2026 forum in Jakarta, bringing together regulators, business associations and banking industry players. The event focused on labour regulation developments, outsourcing management and the use of technology to build more efficient banking operations.

World First: A Nation Paralysed by AI Hack Without Human Assistance

Taiwan has reportedly suffered the world's first fully autonomous AI-driven cyberattack against government institutions, with AI agents breaching 21 systems and 85 user accounts in just four days. Experts suspect Beijing's involvement, citing the use of Simplified Chinese in internal hacking documents. The incident highlights a dramatic drop in the cost of sophisticated cyberattacks and exposes significant gaps in global AI defence strategies.

TNI and Joint Team Extinguish Forest Fire in Central Kalimantan Village

Indonesian military personnel and a joint task force have extinguished a fire in Tambang Nusa village, Central Kalimantan. The operation was launched after the local military district command received reports of potential fires in the area. The team successfully brought the blaze under control before it could spread further.

Ibas: 100 GW Electricity Target Is Not Just About Power Plants, but a Foundation for a Resilient Economy

Deputy Speaker of the MPR and Chair of the Democratic Party Faction in the DPR, Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono (Ibas), has urged that Indonesia's 100 GW electricity capacity target be treated as a strategic opportunity to attract investment, strengthen domestic industry, and create jobs. Speaking at a national discussion in Jakarta, he proposed four strategic shifts, including a focus on transmission, storage, and smart grids rather than solely building power plants. Ibas also stressed that renewable energy development must remain clean, affordable, and reliable, in line with Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution.

TNI mobilizes 14,167 soldiers to support firefighting operations

The Indonesian military has deployed over 14,000 personnel to assist in wildfire suppression across the country, working alongside police, forestry units, and regional agencies. The government has prioritised six peatland provinces—Riau, Jambi, South Sumatra, West Kalimantan, Central Kalimantan, and South Kalimantan—due to heightened fire risks exacerbated by El Niño. Additional fires on Mount Bromo, Mount Pangrango, and Mount Rinjani underscore the scale of the national emergency response.

Not Just an Exchange, Indonesia Is Building Price Sovereignty

Indonesia is entering a new phase in its economic policy, with President Prabowo Subianto pushing for a Strategic Mineral and Commodities Exchange to be operational by 1 January 2027. The ambition is to move beyond being a price taker and establish an Indonesia Reference Price, though the author argues that building an exchange does not automatically create a world reference price. The piece contends that Indonesia must build a credible price-discovery ecosystem, not merely a trading platform, to convert its market power into genuine price sovereignty.

Yogyakarta intensifies active case finding to accelerate TB elimination

The Yogyakarta city government is stepping up active case finding for tuberculosis by integrating screening with free health checks. The programme targets 52 locations across 45 sub-districts, including workplaces and correctional facilities, from 31 July to 19 November 2026. Officials report around 680 TB cases up to July 2026, with a cure rate of 80-85 per cent.

Tourism Minister urges Indonesian tourism students to seize global job opportunities

Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana has called on Indonesian tourism students to prepare for growing global demand in the hospitality sector, particularly from ageing populations in developed countries. She emphasised the need for competency, foreign language skills, and understanding of legal overseas work procedures. The ministry is also aligning tourism polytechnic curricula with global occupational standards and cooperating with the migrant workers protection ministry.

Bank Indonesia: QRIS Becomes Main Entry Point for MSMEs into Digital Financial Ecosystem

Bank Indonesia reports that QRIS has been adopted by 65.77 million users and accepted by 44.86 million merchants, with 96.68 per cent being MSMEs. The central bank views QRIS expansion as crucial for connecting small businesses to the digital economy. BI is promoting digital transformation through e-farming, e-commerce, and e-financing strategies to help MSMEs grow.

Kantar: Value of 30 Brands in Southeast Asia Reaches US$165.3 Billion

Kantar's Onward 2026 forum in Jakarta highlighted the strong growth of Southeast Asian brands, with the top 30 most valuable brands now worth US$165.3 billion, up 26% from 2024. Indonesian consumers show the world's highest adoption of generative AI, which is reshaping brand awareness and interaction. Kantar executives stressed that meaningful differentiation and deep consumer understanding are key to sustainable long-term growth.

Jakarta Arts Council exhibition traces Asrul Sani's creative journey

The Jakarta Arts Council has opened an exhibition exploring the life and work of Asrul Sani, a key figure in Indonesian literature, theatre and film. Running from 21 to 30 August 2026 at Taman Ismail Marzuki, the event features archives, film screenings, cross-generational discussions and dramatic readings. The programme highlights Sani's contributions as a screenwriter, director, poet and cultural institution builder.

Onrust Island exhibition traces the history of the hajj pilgrimage from Batavia to Mecca

An exhibition on Onrust Island in the Thousand Islands regency explores the historical hajj journey from the Dutch East Indies to Mecca. The display highlights the island's role as a hajj quarantine centre from 1911 to 1933. It is a collaboration with several Indonesian universities and the Sultanate of Oman.

Introduction and Trends in Sustainable Investment

Sustainable investment has evolved from religious and ethical exclusions to a global ESG-based framework. The article outlines the history, definitions, and importance of sustainable finance, noting that global sustainable investment reached USD 16.7 trillion in 2024. Indonesia has played a pioneering role, becoming the first country to issue green sukuk in 2018, with cumulative issuance reaching Rp185.6 trillion by 2025.

Business Prospects for Data Centres

Indonesia's digital economy has transformed rapidly over the past decade, with the Covid-19 pandemic accelerating the shift to digital activity. Rising mobile phone usage and internet penetration are attracting investor interest in data centre projects. The government is seeking new engines of economic growth to capitalise on this momentum.

Mandalika MotoGP 2026 Tickets Claimed 50% Sold

Ticket sales for the 2026 Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia at the Mandalika Circuit have reportedly reached 50% of the 145,000 spectator target. The West Nusa Tenggara provincial government is finalising infrastructure preparations, including road repairs and airport services, ahead of the event. Organisers are also arranging cultural side events and concerts to boost the local economy.

BNN RI: Liquid methamphetamine and ketamine smuggling cases in Riau Islands are linked

Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has confirmed that the seizure of 2.6 tonnes of liquid methamphetamine in the Riau Islands is connected to the earlier interception of nearly 1.3 tonnes of ketamine. Investigators are still working to uncover the wider network behind both operations. The agency has also called for a total ban on vapes, citing the evolving smuggling method of concealing liquid narcotics in e-cigarette cartridges.

Danantara Housing Expo Tebar Bunga KPR 2,75%, DP 1%, Tenor hingga 30 Tahun

Danantara Indonesia is hosting the Danantara Housing Expo 2026 in Jakarta, offering mortgage rates from 2.75%, down payments from 1%, and tenors up to 30 years. The expo features over 100,000 housing units from more than 100 developers, supporting the government's Programme of 3 Million Homes. The initiative aims to improve access to affordable housing through collaboration between state-owned enterprises, banks, and private developers.

Chinese Foreign Minister Visits Indonesia, Invites Dialogue on Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Rail

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited Jakarta for the inaugural Comprehensive Strategic Dialogue with Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono. The talks focused on the future of the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Rail project, including financing sustainability and passenger volume strategies. Both nations also agreed to strengthen economic cooperation, local currency transactions, and collaboration in energy, education, and health sectors.

KRL Jakarta Kota–Bogor services disrupted by brawl near tracks, passengers pile up at Cawang Station

Commuter line services between Jakarta Kota and Bogor were temporarily disrupted on Friday evening after a brawl broke out beside the railway tracks between Manggarai and Pasar Minggu stations. The incident caused large crowds of passengers to build up at Cawang Station, particularly on the platform towards Bogor. KAI Commuter later confirmed that services had resumed and that queue dispersal was underway.

Drought in North Kayong, West Kalimantan: Residents Forced to Drink Ditch Water

A prolonged dry season has caused a severe clean water crisis in five villages in Pulau Maya District, North Kayong Regency, West Kalimantan. With wells dried up and rainwater reserves depleted, residents have been forced to use muddy, smoke-contaminated ditch water for daily needs. Local officials are urging the regency government and private companies to urgently distribute clean water and build boreholes as a long-term solution.

Indonesia Surrounded by Thousands of Hotspots

More than 2,000 hotspots have been detected across Indonesia, with Sumatra alone recording 733 as of Friday afternoon. South Sumatra has the highest concentration with 377 hotspots, while Riau has seen over 700 hectares of land burned in recent days. Firefighting teams from Jambi have been deployed to assist South Sumatra, where fire frequency is rising.

Indonesia Marks Fourth Year of Zero Terror Attacks, Vows to Maintain Status

Indonesia has achieved four consecutive years without a terrorist attack, according to Coordinating Ministry for Political and Security Affairs Deputy Minister Lodewijk F. Paulus. The government is calling for continued public involvement to sustain this zero-attack status. The National Counterterrorism Agency (BNPT) reported that 28 planned terror attacks were foiled over the past four years.

Cheap Staple Food Packages Reach Residents of North Thousand Islands

PT Pertamina Hulu Energi OSES has distributed 1,000 subsidised staple food packages to underprivileged residents in the North Thousand Islands. Each package, worth around Rp220,000, was sold for just Rp30,000, with the Rp30 million raised donated to local religious foundations. The programme aims to ease household spending and strengthen food security in the area.

Why the Copyright Law Revision Must Firmly Protect Software

The article argues that Indonesia's ambition to become a digital economic power is undermined by weak legal protection for software. It contends that software piracy acts as an invisible subsidy, distorting fair competition and eroding tax revenue and economic activity. The author urges lawmakers to use the ongoing revision of the Copyright Law to address this gap.

Jakarta Information Commission opens consultation clinic for SAQ E-Monev completion

The Jakarta Information Commission (KI DKI) is assisting public bodies in preparing documents and data for the 2026 Public Information Openness E-Monev Self Assessment Questionnaire. The coaching clinic aims to ensure that responses are not only answered but substantiated with verifiable evidence. The initiative focuses on sub-district level bodies, which are seen as frontline government services.

Coordinating Political and Security Deputy Minister: Presidential Regulation on Preventing Extremism Proof of Prabowo's Care for Terrorism Victims

Deputy Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Lodewijk Friedrich Paulus has stated that Presidential Regulation Number 8 of 2026 demonstrates President Prabowo Subianto's commitment to victims of terrorism. The regulation contains the second phase of the National Action Plan for the Prevention and Countering of Extremism (RAN PE) for 2026-2029. Lodewijk emphasised that the state is responsible for the protection, recovery and fulfilment of rights of victims of violent extremism.

Lestari Moerdijat Urges Child Protection Amid Climate Crisis Threats

Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly Lestari Moerdijat has called for stronger protection of vulnerable groups, particularly children, as Indonesia faces increasingly complex climate risks. She cited UNICEF data showing nearly half of the world's children are exposed to simultaneous climate threats, with Indonesia ranked 46th out of 163 countries on the Children's Climate Risk Index. Moerdijat stressed that collaboration between government, private sector, and communities is no longer optional but essential to build preparedness and mitigation systems.

BNPP reactivates Temajuk–Telok Melano border post to open economic access

Indonesia's National Border Management Agency (BNPP) has officially reactivated the Temajuk–Telok Melano cross-border post in Sambas, West Kalimantan, following the 2023 Border Crossing Agreement with Malaysia. The reopening aims to boost economic and tourism access for communities on both sides of the border. Long-term plans include developing Temajuk as an integrated economic zone and potentially a special economic area for border tourism.

South Sumatra Police Chief Urges Ranks to Strengthen Forest and Land Fire Mitigation Measures

South Sumatra Police Chief Inspector General Sandi Nugroho has instructed all district police forces to heighten vigilance and reinforce prevention, mitigation, and response efforts against forest and land fires amid increasingly dry weather conditions. The directive follows an evaluation meeting with Deputy National Police Chief Commissioner General Dedi Prasetyo, during which 31 hotspots were reported across the province. The police are coordinating with the military, provincial government, and other stakeholders, including conducting weather modification operations to address the escalating fire risk.

Defence Minister Sjafrie Says TNI Personnel to Undergo Education at Chinese Military Schools

Indonesia's Ministry of Defence will send TNI personnel from officer, non-commissioned officer, and enlisted ranks to undertake military education and training in China. The move follows a meeting between Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and Chinese Defence Minister Admiral Dong Jun in Jakarta, as part of strengthened defence cooperation. Both countries also agreed to expand collaboration in defence industry development and joint military exercises.

Data Centres Damage the Earth and Make Residents Suffer, Singapore Has a Solution

Singaporean researchers have unveiled a prototype biological data centre powered by human brain cells, aiming to reduce the massive energy consumption of conventional facilities. The project involves NUS Medicine, data centre operator DayOne, and Melbourne-based Cortical Labs, though efficiency claims remain unverified. The technology still faces significant hurdles, including a six-month lifespan for the neuron-based systems.

TNI Deploys 14,000 Troops to Help Fight Forest and Land Fires in Several Regions

The Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI) has deployed 14,167 personnel to assist in tackling forest and land fires across Indonesia, particularly in Kalimantan and Sumatra. The military is working alongside local governments, police, and disaster agencies, while also supporting weather modification operations with three Cassa-212 aircraft. The Environment Ministry has issued urgent instructions to six governors to tighten fire handling, and a lawmaker has called for the Kalimantan fires to be declared a national disaster.

Criminalisation of Policy in Spotlight, Indonesia's Legal Certainty and Investment Questioned

A national webinar has raised concerns that the criminalisation of policy and business decisions is threatening legal certainty and Indonesia's investment competitiveness. Legal experts argued that state losses do not automatically constitute corruption and called for clearer boundaries between business judgement, administrative error, and criminal acts. Participants stressed that fair and predictable law enforcement is essential to restore investor confidence and support economic transformation.

Indonesian shrimp face 13.9 pct US tariff, lower than Vietnam: Gov't

Indonesia's shrimp exports to the United States face a total tariff of 13.9 percent, comprising a 10 percent Section 301 tariff and a 3.90 percent anti-dumping duty, which is lower than tariffs imposed on India and Vietnam. The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries sees this as an opportunity to strengthen Indonesia's competitiveness and expand its market share in the US, where shrimp exports reached US$1.15 billion last year. The government is also assisting exporters with anti-dumping administrative reviews and exploring tariff advantages for other fishery commodities such as crab, tuna, and squid.

Greenwashing Risk in Indonesian Capital Market, IDX Implements Mitigation

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has confirmed that its Green Equity Designation (GED) for listed companies follows international principles to maintain credibility and reduce greenwashing risks. The framework aligns with the World Federation of Exchanges Green Equity Principles and draws comparisons with Nasdaq, Brazil, Switzerland, and the Philippines. The assessment covers financial aspects, taxonomy alignment, third-party assessment, corporate governance, and disclosure.

Defence Minister Reveals Indonesia-China Cooperation to Build Missiles, Rockets, and Ammunition

Indonesia's Defence Minister has announced that defence cooperation with China will include the construction of missile, rocket, and ammunition factories in Indonesia. The partnership will involve technology transfer from China to enable joint production facilities. The discussions with China's Defence Minister focused on developing Indonesia's military technology capabilities.

Police Confirm Residents Struck by KRL in Tebet and Kalideres Were Not Suicides

Police have confirmed that two separate incidents in which pedestrians were struck by commuter trains in Kalideres and Tebet were accidents, not suicides. A high school student died while crossing the tracks on his way to school, and an elderly man was killed while walking along the railway line. Both incidents occurred at around the same time on Thursday morning.

Unsoed Rector Sting Operation: Observers Demand Total Evaluation of University Governance and Financing

Anti-corruption observers are calling for a systemic overhaul of university governance and financing following the Corruption Eradication Commission's (KPK) sting operation against the rector and vice-rectors of Jenderal Soedirman University. The case, linked to alleged manipulation of independent admission routes, highlights recurring problems in state universities' autonomous funding models. Experts urge greater transparency, independent oversight, and a review of higher education financing standards to prevent similar cases.

Oil and Gas Law Revised, DPR Targets Increase in Oil and Gas Lifting

Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) is accelerating the revision of the Oil and Gas Law to boost national oil and gas lifting and attract major investors to the upstream energy sector. The revised law aims to consolidate state control over oil and gas management in line with a Constitutional Court ruling, replacing the previous separation of regulatory and commercial functions. Lawmakers are also proposing a Special Business Entity (BUK) to replace SKK Migas and a Petroleum Fund to support energy research, with the bill targeted for enactment by mid-October 2026.

PMI serves hundreds of residents in five days after NTT earthquake

The Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) has provided mobile health services, psychosocial support, clean water and emergency supplies to hundreds of people affected by the 7.7-magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. PMI has mobilised personnel, ambulances, tents and relief goods, while facing challenges from damaged roads, disrupted communications and continuing aftershocks. The organisation is prioritising search and rescue, health services, shelter and basic needs as it coordinates with government agencies.

13 Ujung Pandang State Polytechnic study programmes achieve superior accreditation

Thirteen of the 40 study programmes at Ujung Pandang State Polytechnic (PNUP) in Makassar have been awarded 'Unggul' (Superior) accreditation by Indonesia's national accreditation bodies. The achievement spans six departments, including Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Accounting, reflecting broad quality across the institution. PNUP leadership says the accreditation will boost graduate competitiveness, scholarship access, and the polytechnic's reputation in eastern Indonesia.

On Victims of Terrorism Day, BNPT and LPSK Provide Rp 475 Million Compensation to 4 People

Indonesia's National Counterterrorism Agency (BNPT) and the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) have distributed Rp 475 million in compensation to four victims of past terrorist attacks. The payments were made on the International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism, covering victims of the 2004 Australian Embassy bombing and the 2011 Utan Kayu book bomb. BNPT has issued 134 victim determination letters since a Constitutional Court ruling extended the deadline for past terrorism victims to apply for compensation, with applications open until 8 June 2028.

BSI gold financing grows 80.52 percent to reach Rp30.48 trillion as of June

PT Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) reported that its gold business financing surged 80.52 percent year-on-year to Rp30.48 trillion by the end of June 2026, driven by strong growth in gold pawn and gold instalment products. The segment's non-performing financing ratio remained low at 0.11 percent with a yield of 12.45 percent. Gold-related fee-based income also jumped 92.45 percent year-on-year to Rp1.3 trillion, helping BSI achieve a fee-based income ratio of 22.54 percent for the first time.

Government pushes for MSME credit allocation to rise to Rp2,000 trillion

The Indonesian government is encouraging banks to increase credit allocation for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from around Rp1,500 trillion to Rp2,000 trillion by 2027. The move aims to broaden financing access for business actors, with the government still reviewing the composition of financing, including the possibility of raising the portion of People's Business Credit (KUR). Officials cautioned that increased lending must be accompanied by sound management and stronger market access to prevent a rise in non-performing loans.

Febrie pretrial hearing underway, expert opens possibility of new investigation order

A criminal law expert has said the Attorney General's Office could issue a new investigation order against former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah if the current one is annulled by the South Jakarta District Court. Febrie's legal team claims there were 30 procedural violations in the corruption and money laundering case against him. The pretrial hearings are examining the validity of the investigation, seizure, suspect designation, and travel ban.

OJK Reveals West Java Residents Are the Most Frequent Victims of Online Fraud

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has reported that West Java accounts for the highest number of online fraud complaints in the country, with 131,445 reports out of a national total of 637,055. The cities and regencies of Bekasi, Bandung, Bogor and Depok recorded the most victims. Online shopping scams were the most common modus operandi, while fake calls and investment fraud caused the largest financial losses.

From World War II to the Boardroom: The Long History of Outbound

Outbound training, now a staple of corporate and government team-building in Indonesia, has its roots in survival training for young British sailors during World War II. The method evolved from Kurt Hahn's Outward Bound school into a structured experiential learning approach, later adopted by the corporate world. Experts caution that without proper facilitation and reflection, outbound risks becoming mere entertainment rather than a meaningful learning experience.

BSI Posts Rp4.15 Trillion Profit, Boosted by Stellar Gold Business

PT Bank Syariah Indonesia Tbk (BSI) reported a net profit of Rp4.15 trillion for the first half of 2026, an 11% year-on-year increase. The growth was driven by a more than 38% surge in fee-based income, particularly from its gold business, which saw revenue rise 92%. Financing also expanded by nearly 16%, led by corporate and MSME segments.

Galeri24 Pegadaian Auction Announcement

PT Pegadaian's Galeri24 unit has announced a public auction for the procurement of goods and services, to be held at its Jakarta headquarters. The announcement comes amid broader corporate developments, including a strategic partnership with the South Jakarta District Attorney's Office to strengthen governance and asset protection. Pegadaian has also reported strong financial performance, with national net profit reaching Rp6.59 trillion and gold savings growing from 10.5 to 19.25 tonnes.

Pefindo EGM appoints new board of directors

PT Pemeringkat Efek Indonesia (Pefindo) has appointed Ignatius Girendroheru as President Director and Vera Florida as Director of Compliance and Risk Management following an Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders. The new leadership is expected to strengthen Pefindo's role in supporting capital market transparency and stability. The company has also expanded its services to include green and social bond verification and investment manager assessments.

Families of two victims of car fire on Jagorawi Toll Road identified

The families of two men who died when their Mercedes-Benz caught fire after colliding with a container lorry on the Jagorawi Toll Road have come forward to assist police with identification. The accident occurred in the early hours of Friday when the car struck the rear of the lorry at high speed. Police are continuing to investigate the cause of the crash and will accompany the families in collecting the bodies from the Police Hospital.

Latest Condition of Baby Gempita Born Prematurely During Flores Earthquake

Baby Gempita, born prematurely during the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, on 15 August, is showing signs of improvement but remains under medical care. Her mother, Maria Florida Nogo Kelen, also survived an emergency caesarean section performed amid aftershocks and a power cut. Medical staff at RSUD Aeramo continue to provide specialist neonatal care, including phototherapy and incubator treatment.

IEU-CEPA Opens Path for European Investment, Indonesia Targets Energy, Manufacturing and Technology Sectors

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has stated that the Indonesia-European Union Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU-CEPA) will strengthen economic ties and unlock European investment in strategic sectors. Around 90% of tariff lines are expected to be eliminated immediately upon implementation, with the remainder reduced gradually. Growing business delegations from Germany, France and other EU countries signal rising European interest in the Indonesian market.

Suspect Determination in Doctor Icha Death Case Postponed Due to NTT Earthquake

The case title hearing to determine suspects in the alleged intimidation of doctor Eliza Princila Utami Pakaenoni, known as Doctor Icha, at Leona Hospital in Timor Tengah Utara Regency has been postponed. The postponement was due to NTT Police's criminal investigation directorate being deployed to Nagekeo Regency for earthquake response. The hearing is now scheduled for Monday, 24 August 2026.

Family Demands Indonesia Repatriate Karim Miqdad

The family of Palestinian national Abdul Karim Raed Miqdad has issued an open letter demanding that Indonesia repatriate him after he was deported to Cyprus. They argue that the deportation, allegedly carried out at the request of Israel, represents a betrayal by the world's largest Muslim-majority nation. The family has called on Jakarta to intervene directly with Cypriot authorities to secure his release.

BPBD records 112 forest and land fire incidents in South Sulawesi

The South Sulawesi Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has recorded 112 forest and land fire incidents across 15 districts and cities during the 2026 dry season, burning a total area of 1,613.67 hectares. The fires have affected 12 families, caused four casualties, and damaged 39 physical facilities. Authorities warn that legal action will be pursued and urge the public to remain vigilant against new fire outbreaks.

Oona Insurance (ABDA) Records 40% Premium Growth

PT Asuransi Bina Dana Arta Tbk, operating as Oona Insurance Indonesia, reported a 40% year-on-year increase in gross written premiums for the first half of 2026, with net profit rising 55%. The company's performance contrasts with a broader contraction of around 2% in Indonesia's general insurance industry, driven by underwriting discipline and diversified distribution channels.

National Police Chief Investigates Kalimantan Forest Fires: Several Names Already Detained

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has confirmed that several individuals suspected of involvement in the forest and land fires in Kalimantan have been detained following investigations. The Environment Ministry has issued urgent instructions to six governors in Sumatra and Kalimantan to tighten handling of the fires, which have been exacerbated by a strong El Niño phenomenon since July 2026. Air quality monitoring shows elevated PM2.5 concentrations in several affected regions, with Central Kalimantan recording the highest number of hotspots at 767.

Transport Ministry optimises sea transport to deliver earthquake aid in NTT

Indonesia's Ministry of Transportation is prioritising maritime transport to accelerate the distribution of humanitarian aid and personnel to areas affected by the earthquake in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. The ministry has waived all tariffs for aid shipments and relief personnel using state-owned Pelni vessels, while also deploying state vessels to deliver supplies and repair navigation aids. Aid shipments have already departed from Surabaya and Kupang, with further deliveries scheduled from Jakarta.

BGN Head: SPPG Chiefs Causing Fatal Incidents Will Be Dismissed

The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sudaryono, has warned that heads of Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) responsible for fatal incidents in the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme will face dismissal. Civil servant status holders will be dishonourably discharged through the National Civil Service Agency (BKN). He stressed that food safety is a matter of life and death, urging any staff unable to perform their duties to resign rather than endanger beneficiaries.

Swedish Minister of Palestinian and Lebanese Descent Sparks Controversy by Wearing Star of David

Sweden's Education and Integration Minister Simona Mohamsson has drawn widespread attention after wearing a Star of David pendant during an election debate. French magazine Le Point interpreted the gesture as a political statement against rising antisemitism in Sweden and a criticism of the Left Party. The controversy comes ahead of Sweden's legislative elections scheduled for 13 September.

Ten Myanmar nationals arrested attempting to smuggle 2.6 tonnes of liquid methamphetamine into Indonesia

A joint operation by Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN), Customs and Excise, and Riau Islands Police has intercepted a Tanzania-flagged vessel carrying 2.6 tonnes of liquid methamphetamine and 1.57 million illicit cigarettes. Ten Myanmar crew members were detained in Batam. The seizure represents a major blow to transnational drug trafficking networks targeting Indonesia.

MSME Minister: Online motorcycle taxi drivers will still receive holiday bonus despite micro business status

Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Maman Abdurrahman has confirmed that online motorcycle taxi (ojol) drivers will continue to receive holiday bonuses from app companies even after they are formally classified as micro business operators. The government is preparing a Presidential Regulation on digital transport that will define the position of ride-hailing drivers as micro entrepreneurs. The ministry will provide coaching, empowerment, protection and access to incentives while monitoring partnership agreements between drivers and app companies.

Bandung city government opens credit access for MSMEs through Bank BJB

The Bandung city government is expanding financing access for micro, small, and medium enterprises through a partnership with Bank BJB, offering loans ranging from Rp5 million to Rp1.5 billion. Mayor Muhammad Farhan emphasised that access to capital is a key need for MSMEs to grow and absorb more workers, with around 12,000 MSMEs currently registered in the city. The initiative is part of broader efforts to build a stronger MSME ecosystem and reduce the city's open unemployment rate of around 7 percent.

Eight KRL journeys disrupted following brawl

Eight KRL Commuter Line journeys on the Bogor–Jakarta Kota route were delayed on Friday afternoon after a brawl broke out near a level crossing at Manggarai Station. KAI Commuter temporarily halted services in both directions for passenger safety. Services resumed after security personnel secured the area.

Several Shop Houses Collapse in Bekasi, Injuries Reported

A row of shop houses in Mustikajaya, Bekasi, West Java, partially collapsed on Friday afternoon, injuring at least one person. Emergency services evacuated the victim to a nearby health facility, while around six businesses selling groceries and food were affected by the debris. The cause of the collapse remains under investigation.

Central Jakarta KPKP Sub-department vaccinates 3,127 rabies-carrying animals

The Central Jakarta Food Security, Marine and Agriculture Sub-department has vaccinated 3,127 rabies-carrying animals between January and the third week of August 2026. The free vaccination programme targets around 6,000 animals across 44 urban villages by December 2026. Officials say the initiative aims to maintain Jakarta's rabies-free status and support its development as a healthy global city.

No Joke, Indonesia's Copper Mine Is a World Barometer!

PT Freeport Indonesia's Grasberg mine in Papua is regarded internationally as a barometer for global copper mining, having been the world's second-largest open-pit copper mine and a top gold producer. Operational disruptions at Grasberg directly affect global commodity prices, as seen after a September 2025 underground landslide halted production and pushed copper prices higher. The company is now focused on restoring full capacity and developing the Kucing Liar underground block, while emphasising the importance of securing an extension of its special mining permit beyond 2041.

Haze from Forest Fires Blankets Palangka Raya, Schools Suspend Outdoor Activities

Schools in Palangka Raya, Central Kalimantan, have adjusted their activities due to deteriorating air quality caused by haze from forest and land fires. The local education office has delayed school start times, suspended outdoor activities, and required students to wear masks. Early childhood education has shifted to distance learning to reduce exposure to the haze.

PMI Continues Sending Logistics for Earthquake-Affected Residents in NTT, Strengthens Humanitarian Operations

The Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) has dispatched around 20 tonnes of aid to support communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). The organisation is mobilising supplies from central, regional, and subregional warehouses, and has established a logistics hub in Labuan Bajo to improve distribution. The humanitarian operation is expected to last two to three months, focusing on the emergency response phase.

Brawl Erupts in Manggarai, Bogor-Jakarta Kota KRL Services Temporarily Halted

Commuter Line services between Bogor and Jakarta Kota were temporarily suspended on Friday afternoon due to a brawl near a level crossing at Manggarai Station. KAI Commuter halted eight services to Jakarta Kota and six to Bogor as a safety precaution. Services resumed after security personnel secured the area.

Yasonna Laoly Supports Dual Citizenship to Bring Home Talent

Yasonna Laoly, deputy chairman of the House's special committee on the private international law bill, has backed President Prabowo Subianto's proposal for limited dual citizenship. He argues the policy could attract diaspora and world-class talent in science, health, technology, business, arts and sport to contribute to national development. The government is preparing a citizenship bill that would grant dual nationality selectively, with safeguards for national security and legal clarity.

FIF restructures credit for 400 debtors affected by Aceh disaster

PT Federal International Finance (FIF) Group has provided credit relief or payment deferrals to around 400 debtors affected by the hydrometeorological disaster in Aceh, in line with Financial Services Authority (OJK) policy. The programme, running from November 2025 to January 2026, is concentrated in Aceh Tamiang and forms part of risk mitigation to prevent systemic impact and support regional economic recovery. The Aceh disaster damaged over 144,000 homes and extensive agricultural land, with the government allocating Rp58.9 trillion for rehabilitation through 2028.

PGE: Ulubelu and Lahendong geothermal development strengthens energy security

PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy (PGE) has welcomed the signing of a Letter of Intent with PLN and PLN Indonesia Power for the development of bottoming units at the Ulubelu and Lahendong geothermal plants. The projects aim to optimise existing assets and accelerate the energy transition. The additional units are expected to reach commercial operation in 2028.

Pekalongan Regent Corruption Trial: Witness Says Holiday Bonus Money from Agency Heads Was a Tradition

A witness in the corruption trial of suspended Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq testified that providing holiday bonus (THR) money from agency heads to the regent was a long-standing tradition predating her administration. The witness, Robby Darussalam, denied personally receiving such funds during Fadia's tenure, contradicting statements from several agency heads. Fadia maintained that the collected money was used for social purposes, such as distributing gift parcels and food packages to the public, rather than personal enrichment.

DPR Accelerates Oil and Gas Bill Deliberation, Targets Completion by October 2026

Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) is fast-tracking the revision of the Oil and Gas Law, aiming to pass the bill by mid-October 2026. The legislation seeks to provide legal certainty for the upstream sector and strengthen national energy security amid global geopolitical tensions. A key provision involves establishing a Special Business Entity (BUK) to replace SKK Migas, with full authority over upstream oil and gas management.

DSI Case Hearing: OJK Witness Reveals Supervision and Three Vehicle Accounts

A witness from the Financial Services Authority (OJK) testified about the supervision of PT Dana Syariah Indonesia, including direct inspections and three vehicle accounts allegedly linked to Taufiq Aljufri. The testimony was given at the Depok District Court, where three of five scheduled OJK witnesses appeared. The defence for co-defendant Mery Yuniarni noted that no testimony implicated her in the supervisory activities.

31 daycare centres in Yogyakarta unlicensed, FPAY urges overhaul of childcare services

The Yogyakarta Advocates' Fraternity (FPAY) has called for the Little Aresha daycare abuse case to become a catalyst for nationwide reform of childcare governance. Data from the local child protection agency shows 31 of 68 daycare centres in Yogyakarta city are operating without permits. The group is urging the government to audit all facilities, establish national standards, and ensure corporate accountability for child safety.

Witness: Money from Regional Agency Heads Distributed to Regent Fadia Arafiq's Campaign Team

A witness in the corruption trial of suspended Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq testified that funds provided by heads of regional agencies were distributed to her election campaign team. The aide said the money was used for basic food packages and hampers, while another official claimed to have deposited over Rp2 billion into the regent's account. Fadia denied taking the money for herself, saying civil servants also received benefits and that she had to cover additional costs personally.

Minister urges creative industry communities to form cooperatives to support production

Cooperatives Minister Ferry Juliantono has called on creative industry communities, including content creators, animators and illustrators, to establish cooperatives to gain quicker access to initial capital for production. He said cooperatives would allow members to be financed before securing contracts from production houses. The minister also proposed a similar scheme for prospective Indonesian migrant workers to cover pre-departure costs.

Flores quake damages 1,378 schools, affecting 177,678 students: BNPB

The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has reported that 1,378 schools in Flores were damaged by the recent earthquake, with 5,521 classrooms and 502 school facility buildings severely affected. Around 177,678 students and 21,166 teachers have been impacted, prompting the government to prepare emergency facilities and accelerate education recovery measures. While 923 schools have temporarily closed, others are operating through emergency facilities, remote learning, or normal classes as assessments continue.

US Citizens Face 11 Major Threats, Most Dangerous Is Not War

A survey of US financial economists identifies a correction in artificial intelligence investment as the greatest downside risk to the American economy in 2026, surpassing geopolitical escalation and energy price rises. At the same time, AI-related capital expenditure is viewed as the largest potential source of growth, highlighting the economy's growing dependence on the technology sector.

South Jakarta City Government Ensures Access Around Haji Nawi MRT Station to Darul Ma'arif

The South Jakarta City Administration has confirmed that fences and pavements around Haji Nawi MRT Station will be adjusted to provide vehicle access to Darul Ma'arif Islamic educational institution. The access will operate on an open-close system, primarily for religious events held about six times a year. The adjustment aims to accommodate worshippers and visitors without compromising public facilities or security.

BI Records QRIS Users Reach 65.77 Million

Bank Indonesia has reported that the number of QRIS users reached 65.77 million by June 2026, with 44.86 million merchants integrated, 96.68 per cent of which are MSMEs. Deputy Governor Filianingsih Hendarta stated that QRIS has become a key entry point for MSMEs to access the broader digital financial ecosystem. The central bank is pursuing three main strategies and developing the Digital Innovation Centre of Indonesia to accelerate MSME digitalisation.

Medan police seize 93 kg of cannabis after car chase

Medan City Police arrested two men from Aceh and seized 93 kilograms of cannabis following a car chase along AH Nasution Road. The operation stemmed from intelligence gathered during an earlier raid on a suspected drug den in the Tembung railway corridor. Police are continuing to pursue other suspects linked to the trafficking network supplying narcotics to Medan.

BNPB Chief Admits Shortcomings in Handling NTT Earthquake Victims

The head of Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has acknowledged deficiencies in the response to the 7.7 magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, including complaints over clean water and electricity at evacuation posts. The government is accelerating the distribution of 411 tonnes of presidential aid, with 72.77 tonnes delivered by air on 19 August alone. The death toll has risen to 75, with 907 injured and over 92,000 people displaced.

Economist says rice surplus must be followed by equitable distribution

A CORE Indonesia researcher has cautioned that Indonesia's projected rice surplus will only be meaningful if it is accompanied by equitable distribution and affordable prices across the archipelago. Eliza Mardian highlighted persistent logistical and storage challenges in remote areas, urging the government to prioritise domestic distribution before expanding exports.

Indonesia's BNN says 2.6 tons of liquid meth could affect 14.1 million

Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has seized 2.6 tons of liquid methamphetamine from a Tanzania-flagged vessel in the Riau Islands, estimating it could have produced 2.8 million vape cartridges and affected over 14 million people. The operation, conducted with Customs and the Riau Islands Police, also uncovered 1.57 million unstamped cigarettes and led to the arrest of ten Myanmar nationals. Authorities valued the drugs at nearly Rp8.5 trillion and emphasised the seizure as a major protection of public health and state revenue.

Kalimantan Fires Disrupt Flights, Hundreds of Passengers Affected

Thick haze from forest and land fires in Kalimantan has severely reduced visibility, forcing airlines to delay or cancel flights and affecting hundreds of passengers. The Ministry of Transportation is closely monitoring conditions at affected airports, with Singkawang and Pangkalan Bun among the worst hit. Affected passengers are being offered full refunds or free rescheduling.

Witness says giving THR money to Pekalongan Regent has become a tradition

A witness in the corruption trial of suspended Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq testified that regional work unit heads giving money for the regent's holiday bonus (THR) had been a long-standing tradition since the previous administration. The witness, a former aide to the previous regent, said the practice occurred during both the Asip Kholbihi and Fadia Arafiq administrations. Fadia confirmed the tradition but insisted the funds were used to buy gift parcels and basic food packages for the public, not for personal gain.

Ministry of Hajj and Umrah activates emergency service scheme to ensure needs of prospective pilgrims

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has activated an emergency service scheme to guarantee that prospective hajj pilgrims in East Nusa Tenggara continue to receive administrative services following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake. Secretary General Teguh Dwi Nugroho assured that pilgrim data remains secure and accessible through the centralised digital Siskohat system. Emergency posts, hotlines, and flexible document handling have been deployed to support affected pilgrims.

Norwegian Woman Deported After Viral Salon Dispute in Canggu

A Norwegian woman identified as NF has been deported from Bali after a video of her arguing with staff at a beauty salon in Canggu went viral. Immigration checks revealed she had overstayed her visa on arrival by 34 days and was unable to pay the resulting fine. She was deported via Ngurah Rai Airport to Oslo and is subject to a re-entry ban.

Ministry of Culture pushes data-driven strengthening of cultural ecosystem

Indonesia's Ministry of Culture is backing the 2026 Economic Census as a means to build a more precise data foundation for the cultural economy. Minister Fadli Zon said accurate data would enable better-targeted policies and measurable interventions for cultural advancement. The census is expected to capture the structure, scale and contribution of culture-based economic activity to the national economy.

Education Ministry appreciates foreigners proficient in Indonesian

Indonesia's Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has praised foreign nationals who are proficient in Indonesian and understand the country's civilisation, society and culture through the 2026 Handai Indonesia Festival. The event, now in its seventh year, attracted 542 participants from 79 countries, with 25 finalists from 21 nations competing in five categories. The ministry highlighted the growing global interest in the Indonesian language, which now exceeds the number of countries hosting BIPA programmes.

Klaten Regency Government and OJK Launch Inclusive Financial Ecosystem Programme

The Klaten Regency Government and the Surakarta Financial Services Authority (OJK) have launched the Inclusive Financial Ecosystem (EKI) Programme for 2026 in Sidowarno Village. The initiative aims to expand public access to formal financial services, including financing, insurance, and investment, while strengthening the savings culture. The programme is expected to support local micro, small, and medium enterprises, particularly in the village's traditional craft sectors.

IDX ensures Green Equity Designation adheres to global standards

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has confirmed that its Green Equity Designation (GED) framework for listed companies is aligned with international principles, including the World Federation of Exchanges Green Equity Principles. The move aims to safeguard the credibility of green instruments and mitigate greenwashing risks in the Indonesian capital market. The IDX benchmarked its approach against exchanges such as Nasdaq, Brazil, Switzerland and the Philippines.

Beware of Missed Calls from This Number, Do Not Call Back!

The Indonesian Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi) has warned the public about the 'wangiri' phone scam, where fraudsters make brief missed calls from foreign numbers to lure victims into calling back. Victims risk incurring exorbitant international or premium call charges and having their personal data harvested and sold. The ministry advises checking country codes, never returning calls from unknown international numbers, and verifying suspicious numbers independently.

West Jakarta expands Wolbachia implementation to Cengkareng to tackle dengue

The West Jakarta administration has extended its Wolbachia mosquito programme to Cengkareng district, which has the highest dengue incidence rate in the municipality. The initiative follows West Jakarta ranking third in dengue cases across DKI Jakarta, with 1,591 cases reported as of 20 August 2026. Officials hope the programme will yield results faster than the two years typically required, while stressing that routine mosquito nest eradication must continue alongside the biological control method.

Eight Defendants in LPEI Rp 992 Billion Corruption Case Sentenced to 8.5 to 13 Years in Prison

Prosecutors have demanded prison sentences ranging from 8.5 to 13 years for eight defendants accused of corruption involving export financing from the Indonesian Export Financing Institution (LPEI) between 2014 and 2015. The case is said to have caused state losses of Rp 992.8 billion, with two defendants also ordered to pay restitution totalling nearly Rp 1 trillion. The defendants include former LPEI executives and directors of PT Tebo Indo and PT Pratama Agro Sawit.

BPKH Urges Affordable, Fair, and Sustainable 2027 Hajj Cost Formula

Indonesia's Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) has called for a carefully calculated 2027 Hajj cost formula that balances affordability for departing pilgrims with fairness for those on the waiting list and the long-term sustainability of hajj funds. The proposed 60 percent funding from investment returns would create a shortfall of approximately Rp 6.87 trillion, according to BPKH projections. The agency is urging the government and parliament to seek efficiency in real hajj costs alongside a healthy and equitable funding composition.

Minister urges ASEAN to anticipate youth development challenges

Indonesian Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir has called on ASEAN member states to strengthen cooperation in preparing young people for a rapidly changing world. Speaking at the 14th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Youth, he highlighted challenges including artificial intelligence, technological shifts, employment conditions, social issues and mental health. He also outlined Indonesia's national youth development framework and welcomed the proposed ASEAN Work Plan on Youth 2026-2030.

Law Minister: Rapid issuance of IP certificates result of digital transformation

Minister of Law Supratman Andi Agtas has attributed the swift issuance of intellectual property certificates to the digital transformation of services at the Ministry of Law. The ministry aims to encourage more regions to register communal intellectual property, such as traditional cultural expressions, to secure legal protection and economic benefits. A recent example is the registration of Gambus Lae Sukhaya from Aceh as a traditional cultural expression.

List of Electric Cars Priced Around Rp100 Million in August 2026

Indonesia's electric vehicle market has become increasingly competitive by mid-2026, with several models now available below Rp200 million. The Wuling Aira ev leads the segment at Rp155 million, while BYD's Atto 1 offers more space at the upper end of the price range. Consumers are advised to check whether prices include the battery or use a subscription scheme.

Ministry of Environment partners with universities to study ecoregion for post-disaster recovery in West Sumatra

Indonesia's Ministry of Environment is collaborating with Andalas University, University of Indonesia, and Gadjah Mada University to conduct an ecoregion study aimed at strengthening post-disaster recovery in West Sumatra. The initiative involves biophysical and socio-cultural verification across 14 regencies and cities to ensure rebuilding aligns with environmental characteristics and local wisdom. The resulting data will inform recommendations for sustainable recovery of disaster-affected areas.

Temporary Cipeundeuy Subang Toll Gate on Cipali Toll Road officially operational

Astra Tol Cipali has officially opened the temporary Cipeundeuy toll gate at KM 87+950 on the Cikopo-Palimanan toll road to improve regional connectivity and support logistics distribution to Patimban Port. The gate will operate free of charge until the Patimban Access Toll Road Package 1 is completed. The opening was formalised through Minister of Public Works Decree Number 7428/KPTS/Mn/2026.

Government prepares volunteer registration service for NTT earthquake response

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has launched an integrated online registration system for volunteers wishing to assist with the earthquake response in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. The death toll has risen to 83, with nearly 1,000 injured and over 110,000 displaced. Damage assessments show almost 45,000 homes affected, with the heaviest destruction concentrated in East Manggarai, Manggarai, and West Manggarai regencies.

Devastating Effect If Freeport Mine Stops Operating: World Market Shaken!

PT Freeport Indonesia warns that any halt in operations at the Grasberg mine in Papua could destabilise the global mineral market. The company cites last year's underground landslide, which temporarily stopped production and pushed copper prices higher, as evidence of the mine's critical role. Freeport is therefore urging certainty over the extension of its special mining permit beyond 2041 to secure future global copper supply.

40-Year Mortgage Becomes an Option for Buying a Home in Jakarta

State-owned Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) is offering a 40-year mortgage with a fixed 6% interest rate for the Hunian Manggarai transit-oriented development in Jakarta. The scheme aims to make city-centre housing more affordable, with unit prices kept below Rp600 million. The project, developed with KAI Properti, will provide 3,784 units across eight towers and is intended as a model for affordable vertical housing near public transport.

Viral Denpasar Petrol Station Attendant Accused of Cheating Customer, Immediately Dismissed

A petrol station attendant at SPBU 54.801.42 on Jalan Tukad Yeh Aya in Denpasar, Bali, has been dismissed after a customer's complaint about being short-changed went viral on social media. The customer claimed he paid Rp50,000 for fuel but only received Rp30,000 worth, while the station manager said the attendant forgot to return Rp20,000 in change. The owner issued a termination letter on Thursday following the incident.

Debt Collectors Arrested in Cikupa for Extorting Motorist with Stolen Vehicle Accusation

Police in Tangerang have arrested three debt collectors who allegedly stopped a motorcyclist in Cikupa and extorted money from him by falsely accusing him of riding a stolen motorcycle. The suspects claimed to work for PT APL BM and demanded Rp2.5 million, though the victim only transferred Rp500,000. The three face charges under Article 482 of the Criminal Code on extortion, carrying a maximum sentence of nine years.

Surabaya City Government Supports Strengthening Investment Ecosystem Through Digital Innovation

The Surabaya city government is strengthening its investment climate through digital innovation, including an AI-based integrated system and an Investment Clinic to assist business actors. Mayor Eri Cahyadi stated that these measures aim to provide legal certainty and transparency, with the city targeting investment realisation of Rp43 trillion this year. The initiatives are being assessed as part of the 2026 Investment Service Award.

After NTT Earthquake, 56 Fuel Stations in Flores Back to 100 Percent Operation

Pertamina has confirmed that all 56 fuel stations on Flores Island have resumed full operations following the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara. The company has also restored operations at 17 subsidised kerosene agents and five LPG agents, while implementing alternative supply routes to maintain energy security. Four major fuel terminals in Flores are being prepared to back each other up in case of further disruption from aftershocks or volcanic activity.

Forest and Land Fire in Banjarbaru Spreads to Sekolah Rakyat Terpadu 9 Area

A forest and land fire spread to the grounds of Sekolah Rakyat Terpadu 9 in Banjarbaru, South Kalimantan, on Friday afternoon, driven by strong winds from a neighbouring plot. School staff and related parties extinguished the flames before they could damage main facilities, though electricity and Wi-Fi infrastructure were affected. An excavator has been deployed to clear remaining dry grass as a precaution against further outbreaks.

Brawl in Manggarai Disrupts Jakarta-Bogor Commuter Line Services

Commuter line services between Jakarta and Bogor were disrupted on Friday afternoon due to a brawl near the railway tracks between Manggarai and Pasar Minggu stations. Operator KCI apologised for the delays and said trains were being held until authorities declared the area safe. Passengers were advised to follow instructions from on-site personnel.

OJK Encourages Pindar Growth as Contribution to MSMEs Continues to Rise

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) reported that fintech lending to micro, small and medium enterprises grew 23.25% year-on-year to Rp35.12 trillion by June 2026. The regulator and lawmakers see the industry as increasingly vital for expanding access to financing for MSMEs. Industry leaders called for supportive regulation and stronger collaboration to ensure sustainable growth.

Regulator and Industry Synergy Key to Strengthening Digital Assets

Indonesia's digital financial asset industry requires closer coordination between regulators, infrastructure providers, and market participants to navigate regulatory adjustments under the P2SK Law. CFX, KKI, and ICC hosted discussions at Coinfest Asia 2026 in Bali to address industry challenges and explore collaboration. The forums emphasised the importance of dialogue in ensuring growth alongside governance, transparency, and user protection.

Assessing the Design of Separate Elections

An Indonesian legislator argues that the country's electoral system should be separated, with legislative elections held independently from presidential and regional head elections. He contends that the current simultaneous model diminishes the role of political parties and places excessive focus on the presidential race. The article calls for a broader constitutional discussion beyond recent Constitutional Court rulings.

Indonesia steps up weather modification to fight Kalimantan wildfires

The Indonesian government is intensifying weather modification operations across Kalimantan to combat forest and land fires, with cloud seeding conducted in West and Central Kalimantan and further operations planned. The strategy combines aerial water bombing, ground-based firefighting, patrols, and inter-agency coordination, though dense smoke has periodically limited air operations. The Forestry Ministry is also working with the National Disaster Mitigation Agency to expand aerial support for hard-to-reach hotspots.

Nahdliyin Urge Evaluation of Accountability Report at 35th NU Congress

Ahead of the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress in Jombang, activist Gus Lilur has called on delegates to critically assess the outgoing leadership's accountability report rather than accepting it as a mere formality. He highlighted internal frictions, legal issues involving NU figures, and the need to measure tangible grassroots impact. The push reflects broader calls within NU for transparency and a return to the organisation's core mission.

BMKG detects 733 hotspots across Sumatra

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has identified 733 hotspots across nine provinces in Sumatra, with South Sumatra recording the highest number at 377. Riau province alone accounts for 69 hotspots, while recent land fires have already scorched more than 700 hectares. Firefighting teams from Manggala Agni are being reinforced as fire frequency rises in Riau and South Sumatra.

Chronology of Foreign Vessel Smuggling 2.6 Tonnes of Liquid Methamphetamine Seized in Riau Islands

Indonesian authorities have intercepted a Tanzanian-flagged cargo ship, MV Ocean Porter, in the waters of the Riau Islands, seizing 2.6 tonnes of liquid methamphetamine and over 1.5 million illegal cigarettes. The operation, based on joint intelligence analysis by Customs and the National Narcotics Agency, is estimated to have saved around 13 million lives and prevented state losses of approximately Rp25.9 trillion in rehabilitation costs. The vessel is believed to have conducted a ship-to-ship narcotics transfer in the Andaman-Malacca Strait area before entering Indonesian waters.

Building Economic Resilience Through Sharia Economy

Indonesia's sharia finance industry continues to grow, with total assets reaching Rp3,131.02 trillion in 2025 and sharia banking assets growing 10.49% year-on-year by March 2026. However, the author argues that asset growth alone does not equate to deeper economic resilience. The piece calls for sharia finance to move beyond asset accumulation and into productive sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, MSMEs, and manufacturing through risk-sharing models like mudharabah and musyarakah.

Climate index insurance can protect agricultural sector, says expert

IPB University climatologist Prof Rizaldi Boer has proposed climate index insurance as a solution to shield farmers and the agricultural sector from crop failure caused by extreme weather. Unlike conventional crop insurance, claims would be triggered by measurable climate indices such as rainfall below 200 millimetres, rather than actual crop losses. The scheme has already been adopted in countries including the Philippines and several African nations.

DIY Social Agency Criticises Fluctuating Desil Data: 'Not Proper'

The Yogyakarta Special Region (DIY) Social Agency has criticised the frequent changes in the national desil welfare classification data, calling the instability 'not proper'. The agency suspects that additional data sources, such as those from the National Population and Family Planning Board (BKKBN), may be distorting the Data Tunggal Sosial Ekonomi Nasional (DTSEN). The DIY regional government and the local statistics agency have held a closed meeting to align their understanding of the data used for poverty alleviation.

Education Ministry strengthens language diplomacy through Handai Indonesia

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is intensifying efforts to internationalise the Indonesian language through the 2026 Handai Indonesia Festival. The festival serves as a competitive platform for foreign nationals learning Indonesian to showcase their proficiency and cultural understanding. Minister Abdul Mu'ti emphasised that these learners act as friendship ambassadors, promoting Indonesia globally through their language skills and cultural appreciation.

Police Chief Says Several Names Arrested in Connection with Forest and Land Fires in Kalimantan

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has confirmed that several individuals have been detained in connection with forest and land fires in Kalimantan. Investigations are being conducted simultaneously with firefighting efforts, with regional police units leading the inquiries. The police are also deploying additional personnel to assist in extinguishing the fires.

LPDB Koperasi Marks 20th Anniversary with Social Assistance for Elderly at Care Home

Lembaga Pengelola Dana Bergulir (LPDB) Koperasi celebrated its 20th anniversary by donating health and hygiene supplies to elderly residents at Panti Sosial Tresna Werdha Budi Mulia 3 in South Jakarta. The initiative reflects the cooperative's commitment to social solidarity alongside its core role in revolving fund financing. The assistance included medicines, care equipment, and 360 meal and snack packages.

East Java Brimob Provides Trauma Healing for Child Earthquake Victims in NTT, Smiles Return

Personnel from the East Java Police Mobile Brigade (Brimob) have been providing psychosocial support and trauma healing to children affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). Through games, singing, and educational activities, officers are helping to reduce anxiety and restore a sense of safety among young survivors in evacuation shelters. The humanitarian assistance is set to continue throughout the post-disaster recovery period.

BNN: Seized 2.6 Tonnes of Liquid Meth Linked to 1.3 Tonne Ketamine Case

Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has revealed that the recent seizure of 2.6 tonnes of liquid methamphetamine in the Riau Islands is connected to an earlier interception of 1.3 tonnes of ketamine. The link extends beyond the shared nationality of the suspects from Myanmar, with ongoing investigations targeting higher-level figures in the network. The operations involved coordinated efforts by the police, customs, BNN, and the navy.

Subsidised Fuel Scarcity in Aceh: Potential State Losses of Rp1 Trillion

The chronic scarcity of subsidised fuel in Aceh, particularly along the Malacca Strait coast, has been linked to widespread illegal practices at petrol stations. The Aceh government estimates that misuse of subsidised fuel could cost the state up to Rp1 trillion annually, with around 885,000 litres diverted each day. Authorities have identified repeated filling by modified vehicles and the use of fake number plates as key factors behind the shortages and long queues.

Targeting Rp106 Trillion in Exports, Furniture Industry Boss Says No Need for Government Pampering

Indonesia's furniture and craft industry is targeting US$6 billion in exports by 2031, with a long-term ambition of US$25 billion by 2045. Industry leaders argue that rather than special treatment, businesses need open market access and fair trade policies to compete globally. A joint task force between the Trade Ministry and HIMKI has been established to drive measurable export growth.

TNI Deploys 3 Weather Modification Aircraft to Combat Kalimantan Forest Fires

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has deployed three Cassa-212 aircraft to support weather modification operations aimed at tackling forest and land fires in Kalimantan. The aircraft are positioned across East Kalimantan, South Kalimantan, and the Nusantara Capital City (IKN) area. Ground teams have also been mobilised to extinguish peatland fires in Central Kalimantan.

Is Indonesia's Perfume Industry Ready to Make the Nation's Name Fragrant?

Indonesia's essential oil exports reached US$348.7 million in 2025, placing it fifth globally, with nearly 90% of the world's patchouli oil supplied by the archipelago. Despite this dominance in raw materials, the country has historically struggled to convert its advantage into downstream manufacturing, suffering from premature deindustrialisation and a persistent trade deficit in finished perfume products. Recent growth in local brands and government revitalisation programmes suggests a potential shift towards capturing more value from the fragrance supply chain.

Budiawansyah Resigns from Vale Indonesia (INCO) Board of Directors

PT Vale Indonesia Tbk (INCO) has announced the resignation of Budiawansyah from his position as Director and Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer. The resignation, submitted on 20 August 2026, was described as a personal decision related to family considerations. The company stated that the departure will not adversely affect its operations, legal standing, financial condition, or business continuity.

DAMRI reopens Kalianda-Jakarta route from 21 August 2026

State-owned bus operator DAMRI will resume its intercity service between Kalianda, South Lampung, and Jakarta via the Trans-Sumatra route starting 21 August 2026. The service offers fares from Rp215,000 and connects Kalianda and Tanjung Karang railway station with Serang, Poris, BSD, and Gambir. Local officials say the reopening aims to improve transport connectivity and support tourism and economic growth in South Lampung.

Djamari: Preventing transnational crime requires involvement of all law enforcement agencies

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago has stressed that preventing transnational crime requires the involvement of all law enforcement agencies, not just a single institution. Speaking at the unveiling of a foiled attempt to smuggle 2.6 tonnes of liquid methamphetamine in Batam, he highlighted the importance of inter-agency collaboration. Djamari also noted that successful interdiction saves the state significant rehabilitation costs, potentially up to Rp140 trillion.

National Police Chief Urges Workers and Employers to Maintain Solidarity, Prioritise Dialogue

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has called on workers and employers to preserve their solid relationship, emphasising that a conducive industrial climate is vital for Indonesia's business environment. Speaking at the inauguration of a KSPSI AGN building in Surabaya, he highlighted the need for workers to adapt to technological changes and strengthen their skills. He also noted that the Police Labour Desk has handled 324 industrial relations cases since 2025, facilitating the return to work of 4,505 affected employees.

Sports Minister Supports Legal Process in Sexual Violence Case Involving Former Climbing Federation Coach

Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir has voiced full support for the police investigation into alleged sexual violence committed by a former national climbing coach against five female athletes. The case has been declared complete and transferred to the Bekasi District Prosecutor's Office. Thohir emphasised that athlete safety must become a priority across all national sports federations.

France investigates suspected Russian operations targeting Gabriel Attal

French authorities are investigating two new suspected Russian interference operations against Renaissance party leader and presidential candidate Gabriel Attal, bringing the total to four in two weeks. The operations reportedly involved fake newspaper front pages, false corruption allegations, and an AI-generated video projected onto the Pantheon in Paris. Other potential presidential candidates, including Edouard Philippe and Raphael Glucksmann, have also been targeted recently.

South Jakarta Dukcapil Holds Door-to-Door Service to Ease Residents' Civil Administration

The South Jakarta Population and Civil Registration Agency (Dukcapil) has launched a door-to-door service in Pasar Manggis, Setiabudi, to bring civil administration services closer to residents. The Bina Kependudukan (Binduk) programme allows residents of RW 12 to process various population documents without travelling to a service office. The initiative is part of the government's effort to make public services more accessible within communities.

Ministry of Religious Affairs prepares temporary classrooms for madrasah students in NTT

The Ministry of Religious Affairs is setting up temporary learning spaces for madrasahs affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara as part of its emergency response. The ministry has identified 72 affected institutions, with 32 schools serving 5,523 students classified as Priority I due to severe or total damage. Data verification and coordination with local authorities are ongoing to ensure aid is accurately targeted.

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Reviews Sikka Earthquake Impact in NTT

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka visited Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, to assess the handling of the recent earthquake disaster. He inspected damaged schools, ports, churches, and hospitals, and distributed aid to affected residents. The visit aimed to reassure the community that the state is present and committed to supporting recovery efforts.

MPR Deputy Speaker: Upstream oil and gas exploration remains key to energy sovereignty

Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Eddy Soeparno has stressed that aggressive upstream oil and gas exploration is essential for reducing Indonesia's dependence on crude oil and fuel imports and for securing national energy sovereignty. He called for a healthy investment climate, regulatory certainty, and fiscal incentives to accelerate exploration and production. ReforMiner Institute also praised SKK Migas' strategy of pursuing offshore projects and legalising community oil wells.

BP Batam and National Police expand security cooperation to 22 islands

BP Batam and the Indonesian National Police have renewed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen security across BP Batam's expanded working area, which now covers 22 islands totalling approximately 152,000 hectares. The expansion follows Government Regulation No. 46 of 2007 and increases BP Batam's jurisdiction from the previous eight islands. Police officials emphasised that security is essential for providing certainty to the public, businesses, and government development efforts.

VP Gibran assures equal aid for NTT quake victims

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has assured residents affected by the magnitude 7.7 earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara that government assistance will be distributed equally, including to independent evacuees. During visits to evacuation centres and health facilities in Manggarai and East Manggarai districts, he urged displaced residents to move to communal shelters for better access to food, medicine and services. The government has deployed thousands of personnel and delivered hundreds of tons of supplies, with ongoing assessments of damaged homes to support housing assistance.

Premature Baby Born in Emergency Tent in Manggarai, NTT, Dies

A baby born prematurely at the Barongkolo evacuation post in Reo, Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, died while being referred to Ruteng Regional Hospital. The infant suffered from asphyxia and hyperthermia shortly after birth. The post is the main shelter for over 1,500 victims of the Flores earthquake.

Flores Earthquake Damages 1,378 Schools, Affects Over 100,000 Students

The 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, has damaged 1,378 schools, disrupting education for 177,678 students and 21,166 teachers. The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) reports that 923 schools have temporarily closed, while others are operating in emergency rooms or through distance learning. The disaster has also damaged nearly 45,000 homes and displaced over 110,000 people.

Yogyakarta Residents Alarmed by Loud Bangs During M3.5 Earthquake, BMKG Explains

Residents of Yogyakarta reported hearing loud bangs and rumbling during a magnitude 3.5 earthquake on 20 August 2026, prompting fears of a larger event. The BMKG explained that the shallow quake was triggered by the active Opak Fault and that such sounds are common in shallow crustal earthquakes. Officials urged the public to learn from the destructive 2006 Opak Fault earthquake and to strengthen disaster mitigation and preparedness.

Customs and Excise Foils Smuggling of 2.6 Tonnes of Liquid Methamphetamine During Indonesia's 81st Independence Day

Indonesia's Directorate General of Customs and Excise, together with the National Narcotics Agency and Riau Islands Police, intercepted a Tanzanian-flagged vessel carrying approximately 2.6 tonnes of liquid methamphetamine and 1.57 million illicit cigarettes. The operation took place in Riau Islands waters on 17-18 August 2026, coinciding with Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations. Authorities estimate the drug seizure potentially saved 14.15 million lives from substance abuse.

Minister: Limited dual citizenship proposal not only for foreign nationals

Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas has clarified that the proposed limited dual citizenship scheme for exceptional talent is not exclusively aimed at foreign nationals, responding to concerns from the Indonesian diaspora. He stressed that President Prabowo Subianto prioritises qualified diaspora members and that the policy will be highly selective, with applications likely to be made by institutions rather than individuals. The proposal is still under discussion and will be incorporated into the Citizenship Bill.

Indef Supports Reduced Electric Motorcycle Incentives to Strengthen Fiscal Position

Economist M Rizal Taufikurahman of Indef has backed the government's plan to reduce electric motorcycle purchase incentives to Rp3 million, arguing it will ease pressure on the state budget. He noted that the incentive serves more as a sweetener than a primary driver for switching to electric vehicles. The government has allocated Rp3 trillion for the programme, targeting one million units.

WIKA Wins 2 Awards at Indonesia Human Capital Awards for Strengthening HR

State-owned construction firm PT Wijaya Karya (WIKA) has received two accolades at the Indonesia Human Capital Awards XII 2026, recognising its human capital transformation efforts. The awards highlight the company's commitment to building an agile, productive workforce aligned with its broader corporate restructuring agenda.

BI: QRIS used by 65.77 million users and accepted by 44.86 million merchants

Bank Indonesia reports that by June 2026, QRIS has been adopted by 65.77 million users and 44.86 million merchants, with 96.68 per cent of merchants being MSMEs. The central bank views QRIS as a key entry point for MSMEs into the digital financial ecosystem. BI is promoting digital transformation through e-farming, e-commerce, and e-financing initiatives to help MSMEs scale up.

National Police Chief encourages good and constructive industrial relations

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has called for constructive industrial relations between workers and employers amid rapid changes in the world of work. Speaking at the inauguration of the KSPSI AGN building in Surabaya, he highlighted the importance of dialogue and noted that the Police Labour Desk has handled 324 industrial relations cases since 2025. He stressed that resolving labour issues through open communication serves the shared interests of workers, businesses, and the national economy.

Indonesian Business Association Reassures EU Investors as Technical Hurdles Are Quickly Resolved

APINDO chairwoman Shinta Widjaja Kamdani says the association has successfully convinced European Union investors that Indonesia is a comfortable place to invest. A dedicated debottlenecking task force is addressing technical obstacles in implementing the Indonesia-EU CEPA, including regulation, licensing, registration, certification and standards. The EU Ambassador to Indonesia welcomed APINDO's initiative in promoting the task force to businesses.

This Week in the Indonesian Economy (14-20 Aug 2026)

The week of 14 to 20 August 2026 proved to be one of the most consequential in recent memory for the Indonesian economy, encompassing a devastating natural disaster, a raft of ambitious policy announcements, renewed momentum in the energy transition, and persistent questions about whether the country's robust headline growth is being felt by ordinary households.

This Week in Indonesian Politics (14-20 Aug 2026)

Indonesia's 81st Independence Day week unfolded against a backdrop of natural disaster, judicial drama, security crises in Papua, and the stirrings of electoral politics -- a characteristically dense stretch for a nation that rarely affords itself a quiet moment. The magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara on 15 August cast a long shadow over the Independence Day celebrations.

This Week in Indonesian Business and Investment (14-20 Aug 2026)

The week of 14 to 20 August 2026 proved to be one of the busiest in recent memory for Indonesian business and investment, with major policy announcements, capital market reforms, surging financial sector performance, and a flurry of foreign investment signals all converging in the days surrounding the nation's 81st Independence Day.

Myanmar Deploys Troops to Seize Civilian Land for Russian-Backed Project

Myanmar's military has deployed hundreds of soldiers to forcibly clear villages around the Dawei Special Economic Zone, a stalled deep-sea port project now being revived with Russian backing. The operation has reportedly involved burning homes and killing aid workers, as the junta seeks to secure the strategic corridor as an alternative to the Malacca Strait. The push comes amid renewed diplomatic engagement between junta leader Min Aung Hlaing and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Coordinating Ministry for Political and Security Affairs: RAN PE Phase II strengthens protection for terrorism victims

The Indonesian government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting victims of terrorism through the second phase of the National Action Plan for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (RAN PE) 2026–2029. Deputy Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Lodewijk F. Paulus highlighted the state's responsibility to provide compensation, medical assistance, and psychosocial rehabilitation. He also warned of emerging challenges, including radicalisation in digital spaces targeting vulnerable groups.

Bekasi City Metro Police Commemorate Police Service Day with Community Elements

The Bekasi City Metro Police marked Police Service Day 2026 with a ceremony involving online motorcycle taxi communities, students, and volunteers. The event highlighted the strategic partnership between the police and the public in maintaining security and public order. Awards were presented to community representatives for their active role in neighbourhood safety and road user awareness.

Andrea Bocelli to Hold Two Concerts in Indonesia, Here is the Schedule

Italian maestro Andrea Bocelli will perform at Borobudur Temple and Jakarta International Expo in late 2026 as part of his Romanza 30th Anniversary World Tour. Bank SMBC Indonesia is the presenting partner, offering presale tickets and discounts to its customers. The bank says the collaboration aims to connect world-class music with Indonesia's cultural heritage while supporting economic growth.

Ministry of Religious Affairs affirms penghulu as caretakers of the community in KUA transformation

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has emphasised that penghulu (Islamic marriage officiants) must evolve beyond their traditional role as marriage registrars to become 'caretakers of the community' amid the ongoing transformation of Kantor Urusan Agama (KUA) services. Speaking at a capacity-building short course in Yogyakarta, officials stressed the need for penghulu to develop social sensitivity, contemporary fiqh knowledge, and digital literacy to meet changing public expectations. The initiative aligns with the ministry's broader agenda to strengthen religious services and digitalise governance.

Ruben Onsu named suspect in alleged investment fraud, here is the chronology

Presenter Ruben Onsu has been named a suspect in an alleged investment fraud and embezzlement case by the South Jakarta Metropolitan Police. The case stems from a business investment offer that allegedly failed to deliver promised returns or return the principal. Police have examined more than six witnesses and experts since the case was reported in August 2025.

Aceh Police Chief and Deputy Receive Gold Pin from National Police Chief for Handling Crescent Star Flag Incident

The Indonesian National Police has awarded its gold pin to Aceh Police Chief Inspector General Ruddi Setiawan and Deputy Chief Brigadier General Ari Wahyu Widodo for their handling of the Crescent Star flag incident at Baiturrahman Grand Mosque in Banda Aceh. Several officers also received extraordinary promotions for their roles in negotiating with the public, calming tensions, and ensuring the flag removal proceeded safely. The police leadership stated the awards are intended to motivate personnel to serve professionally and responsibly.

House Commission X updates data on schools damaged by NTT earthquake

House of Representatives Commission X is updating data on schools damaged by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara to ensure post-disaster assistance is accurately targeted. The commission is also inventorying affected students, teachers, and education staff, while emphasising the importance of trauma healing. A direct inspection with relevant ministries is planned to distribute aid.

Baznas strengthens human resource capacity to boost national ZIS collection

Indonesia's National Alms Agency (Baznas) is enhancing its human resources and innovation capabilities to increase the collection of zakat, infak, and sedekah (ZIS). The agency is focusing on five key pillars, including HR development, expanded collaboration, and maximising fund mobilisation. Baznas also reported that its empowerment programmes lifted 302,994 mustahik out of poverty last year, a 5.84 percent year-on-year increase.

Revealed: How a Brawl at a Kuta Bar Led to the Death of a British Man

Police in Denpasar have disclosed the initial trigger of a fatal assault at a Kuta bar that led to the death of British national Paul Innes Dougan. The altercation reportedly began after Dougan reprimanded a man who had earlier confronted a woman at the venue, prompting four Australian nationals to beat him. The suspects have since left Indonesia, and an autopsy is being conducted to determine the exact cause of death.

Ahead of Three Years of Operation, LRT Jabodebek Sets Record of 3 Million Users in a Month

LRT Jabodebek recorded its highest monthly ridership of 3,060,436 users in July 2026, marking a significant milestone ahead of its third anniversary. Cumulative ridership for the first seven months of 2026 reached 19,079,347, a 21 per cent increase compared with the same period last year. The operator says the growth reflects rising public confidence in the light rail system as a key urban mobility option.

Resident Complains About Delays in Renouncing Indonesian Citizenship, Law Minister Orders Follow-up

An Indonesian citizen residing in Taiwan has faced prolonged delays in obtaining a decree to renounce his citizenship despite applying in June 2025. Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas acknowledged the issue during a public forum and instructed his staff to expedite the verification process involving 14 ministries and agencies.

Yosep Anggi Noen adapts Laut Bercerita with a popular approach

Director Yosep Anggi Noen has adapted Leila S. Chudori's novel Laut Bercerita into a film using a popular, accessible approach rather than a rigid historical style. The film aims to bridge historical events with contemporary audiences through music and emotional storytelling. Cast members Yunita Siregar and Dewa Dayana discussed how the novel's characters remain relevant across generations, particularly in portraying the 1998 activist movement.

Drought Hits 42 Villages in Pandeglang, 24,000 Residents Face Clean Water Shortage

Prolonged dry season conditions have left approximately 24,000 people across 15 sub-districts in Pandeglang Regency, Banten, struggling to access clean water. The local government has distributed 313,000 litres of water to affected residents so far. Officials are urging residents to use the available water wisely as wells run dry.

US Threatens Severe Sanctions Against Iran, Warns Allies and China

The United States has warned its allies and China to join a new economic pressure campaign against Iran or face consequences. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described the planned measures as the largest coordinated economic isolation in history. China, which buys over 80% of Iran's oil exports, has rejected sanctions as a solution and called for political and diplomatic resolution.

Forest fires push Palangka Raya air quality into hazardous zone

Forest and land fires in Palangka Raya, Central Kalimantan, have driven air quality into the hazardous category, with PM2.5 readings peaking at 290.2 early in the morning. Local officials warn that peatland burning poses serious risks to public health, visibility, and transport, and have called for greater public participation in fire prevention. The city has recorded 298 fires burning 261.41 hectares since June, with Jekan Raya subdistrict the worst affected.

Prabowo to Rebuild Anduriang Bridge, Andre Rosiade: Construction to Begin February 2027

The Anduriang Bridge in Padang Pariaman, West Sumatra, will be rebuilt using approximately Rp47 billion from the state budget, with tendering expected in January 2027 and physical works starting in February 2027. The project is part of President Prabowo Subianto's Rp19 trillion commitment to post-disaster recovery in West Sumatra. River normalisation works worth Rp218 billion and water supply system repairs worth Rp133 billion are also planned for the affected areas.

Arthatel and AGP Educate Children on Smart, Safe, and Responsible Internet Use

PT Artha Telekomindo (Arthatel) and Artha Graha Peduli have conducted a digital literacy programme for pupils at SDN 01 Kuningan Barat in South Jakarta. The initiative taught children about the benefits and risks of the internet, including data protection, hoaxes, cyberbullying, and the responsible use of artificial intelligence. Company officials and local representatives expressed hope that such education will help children use technology safely and pursue their aspirations.

Ciputra Life records positive performance in 2025, business growth continues in H1 2026

PT Asuransi Ciputra Indonesia (Ciputra Life) reported a 95% increase in net profit to Rp99.3 billion for 2025, with total assets and investments each surpassing Rp1 trillion. The insurer's premium income grew 53% year-on-year in the first half of 2026, driven by credit life insurance and corporate solutions. The company also completed its implementation of PSAK 117, the Indonesian adoption of IFRS 17.

Hutama Karya Supports Emergency Earthquake Response in NTT

State-owned construction firm PT Hutama Karya has delivered emergency aid to communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, including food, sanitation supplies, medicines and heavy equipment. The assistance is being channelled through the national disaster agency's coordination post in Jakarta and distributed by air to affected districts on Flores Island. The company is also mapping needs in Ende-Maumere and Sikka to determine further heavy equipment deployment.

KPK Urged to Uncover Alleged Bribery in Unsoed Student Admissions

A researcher from Mulawarman University's Anti-Corruption Study Centre has called on the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) to fully investigate alleged bribery in the independent admission pathway at Jenderal Soedirman University's Faculty of Medicine. Herdiansyah Hamzah stressed that both bribe givers and receivers must be identified, noting that such practices are not new in state universities. The call follows a sting operation that ensnared several university leaders, including the rector and vice-rectors.

DPR member: Transfer of central government assets to regions helps provide benefits

House of Representatives (DPR) Commission VII member Hendry Munief has voiced support for transferring central government assets in Pekanbaru, Riau, to local government ownership, arguing it would clarify management authority and benefit the public. He pledged to push for the grant process through coordination with relevant central government institutions. Pekanbaru Deputy Mayor Markarius Anwar said several central government assets are already being used by the city but their ownership status has not been fully resolved.

Europe and Canada Furious with Israel Over West Bank Settlement Tender

Britain, France, Germany, Italy and Canada have issued a joint statement condemning Israel's plan to tender construction of 1,200 settlement units in the strategic E1 area of the occupied West Bank. The allies warn the project would effectively bisect the West Bank, isolate East Jerusalem and deal a severe blow to the two-state solution. Israel's housing ministry formally released the tender for 1,234 units on Wednesday, with a bidding deadline set just days before the Israeli general election.

Brawl Near Railway Tracks Disrupts Jakarta-Bogor Commuter Line Services This Afternoon

Commuter Line services between Jakarta Kota and Bogor were disrupted on Friday afternoon after a brawl broke out near the railway tracks between Manggarai and Pasar Minggu stations. KAI Commuter advised passengers that trains were being held until the area was deemed safe, with security personnel handling the situation.

National Police Chief hopes new KSPSI AGN East Java building becomes a home for workers' struggle

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has inaugurated the revitalised KSPSI AGN East Java building in Surabaya, expressing hope that it will serve as a hub for workers to advocate for their rights and welfare. The building, whose construction began in 1988 but stalled for over three decades, was completed in 2026 following a revitalisation initiative led by KSPSI President Andi Gani Nena Wea. Sigit emphasised that the facility should also foster constructive dialogue between employers and workers to support conducive industrial relations and a better investment climate.

Three ASEAN country delegations study Indonesia's cross-cultural religious literacy

Delegations from Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam visited Jakarta to study Indonesia's Cross-Cultural Religious Literacy Programme (LKLB), initiated by the Leimena Institute. The programme has trained over 11,000 teachers and educators and has been incorporated into the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 blueprint. Officials highlighted its role in building social cohesion, tolerance, and sustainable peace across Southeast Asia.

Video: Attracting Investors to Mandalika, ITDC Offers Tax Holiday and Prepares Human Resources

State-owned tourism developer ITDC is stepping up efforts to draw investment into the Mandalika special economic zone, targeting around Rp6 trillion with an additional Rp3.7 trillion focused on the MotoGP circuit area. The company is offering incentives such as tax holidays while improving infrastructure and workforce readiness. ITDC also aims to use the 2026 MotoGP event to strengthen Mandalika's role as a driver of national branding.

Riau Police Chief: Forest and Land Fires in Riau Under Control Thanks to Cross-Sector Collaboration

Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan has stated that forest and land fires in Riau Province remain under control due to strong inter-agency collaboration. He highlighted that 81 hectares of the 270 hectares burned in Kerumutan, Pelalawan, have been extinguished, with law enforcement and environmental restoration efforts also underway.

BNPB: 1,378 schools in Flores, NTT affected by earthquake

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has recorded that 1,378 schools on Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara, sustained damage from the 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck the region a week ago. Data collection on the damage is 92 percent complete, with 5,521 classrooms and 502 school facility buildings reported damaged, including severe cases. The government is working to provide emergency facilities so that 177,678 students and 21,166 teachers and education staff can continue teaching and learning activities.

Baznas RI sets up medical post to serve NTT earthquake victims

The National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) has established a medical service post at an Islamic boarding school in Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, to treat victims of the recent earthquake. Around Rp6 billion in aid funds have been collected for emergency and recovery programmes. The government has also reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating emergency response and post-earthquake recovery in the Flores region.

Riau police deploy five experts to probe forest fire case

Riau Police have deployed five specialists to investigate a forest fire in the concession area of PT Teguh Karsa Wana Lestari, aiming to establish the cause and extent of environmental damage through scientific evidence. The experts, including fire and environmental damage specialists, will assess ignition points, fire patterns, and land conditions to strengthen the case. Their findings are expected to support a comprehensive investigation into the incident.

Tangerang DPRD urges city government to map damaged roads and accelerate repairs

The Tangerang City DPRD has called on the municipal government to conduct a comprehensive inventory of road conditions across the city to prioritise and expedite repairs. The council emphasised that road maintenance affects public safety, traffic flow, and economic activity, and pledged to oversee that works meet budget and specification requirements. The Public Works Department reported handling 1,024 damaged road points between January and June 2026, with repairs on major routes scheduled until October 2026.

BNN saves 14.1 million lives from smuggling of 2.6 tonnes of liquid methamphetamine

Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has thwarted the smuggling of 2.6 tonnes of liquid methamphetamine aboard the MV Ocean Porter, potentially saving an estimated 14.1 million people from drug abuse. The operation, conducted jointly with Customs and the Riau Islands Police, also uncovered 1.57 million illegal cigarettes. The seized narcotics have an estimated economic value of nearly Rp8.5 trillion.

Floating Hospital Ship Arrives at Reo Port in NTT, Accommodates 75 Patients

The Indonesian Navy's hospital ship KRI dr Soeharso 990 has docked at Reo Port in East Nusa Tenggara to support earthquake relief efforts. The vessel can perform major operations and has inpatient capacity for 75 patients. The death toll from the earthquake has risen to 83, with the number of injured now at 986.

Nabire Airport cancels two Flights as wildfire smoke cuts visibility

Nabire's Douw Aturure Airport was forced to cancel two flights and temporarily close after smoke from a nearby land fire reduced visibility to below 70 metres, far short of the five kilometres required for safe operations. Airport authorities and firefighters are working to prevent the fire from spreading onto the runway, though conditions remain too poor to confirm when normal flight schedules can resume. The disruption highlights the ongoing operational risks that wildfires pose to regional air transport in Indonesia.

Trade Minister Invites Businesses to Strengthen 41st Trade Expo Indonesia

Trade Minister Budi Santoso has called on Indonesian businesses to maximise the 41st Trade Expo Indonesia (TEI) in October 2026, targeting USD 17.5 billion in transactions. The Ministry of Trade is intensifying business matching through overseas trade representatives before the event. The approach follows the success of TEI 2025, which saw USD 9.8 billion in contracts signed on its first day.

East Kalimantan battles 24 hotspots as fire risk rises

East Kalimantan is facing a growing forest and land fire threat, with 24 hotspots recorded across several districts, particularly in Paser and Berau. The provincial disaster agency is strengthening patrols and deploying joint teams, while also preparing a weather modification proposal to wet fire-prone areas and replenish reservoirs near the new capital Nusantara. Poor road access remains a key challenge for firefighting efforts, forcing crews to use portable water tanks and long hose lines.

ITB study: Jabodetabek air pollution cannot be tackled by one sector

A new study by Institut Teknologi Bandung finds that air pollution in the Greater Jakarta area is driven by a combination of heavy vehicles, commuter mobility, industry and power plants, with sources varying by region. The researchers argue that policy responses must therefore move beyond administrative boundaries and treat Jabodetabek as a single integrated air quality management area. The study recommends cross-regional governance, low-emission vehicles, stronger industrial controls and expanded public transport.

Russia Tests Missiles off Kuril Islands, Japan Protests

Japan has lodged a formal protest with Russia after Moscow conducted missile tests in waters near the disputed Kuril Islands, known in Japan as the Northern Territories. The tests, which simulated attacks on enemy ships and reportedly hit targets at distances of at least 300 kilometres, follow President Vladimir Putin's first official visit to the islands earlier in August. The incident has further heightened tensions between the two countries over the long-standing territorial dispute.

Farhan Urges Zakat to Move Beyond Aid, Impact Must Be Measurable

Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan has called for zakat management to focus on measurable impact rather than simply distributing aid. He emphasised that assistance to mustahik should be evaluated based on improvements in recipients' welfare within a set timeframe. Farhan also highlighted the importance of collaboration between government structures and religious and community organisations to achieve more targeted distribution.

Elon Musk Brings New Disaster, This Profession Is Threatened with Extinction

Nevada transport authorities have approved up to 8,000 robotaxis from Tesla, Uber, and Waymo to operate in Clark County over the next year, with Tesla receiving the largest allocation of 5,000 units. The move is expected to significantly reshape the local labour market, creating maintenance jobs while threatening conventional taxi drivers with redundancy. Local transport operators and taxi companies have strongly opposed the permits, citing concerns over market saturation and severe traffic congestion.

BSI Hajj Savings Grow 24 Percent, Accounts Reach 7.69 Million

PT Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) reported a 23.8 percent year-on-year increase in hajj savings accounts to 7.69 million as of June 2026, with funds raised from the hajj and umrah ecosystem reaching Rp16.7 trillion. The growth contributed to a 21.81 percent rise in third-party funds to Rp393 trillion and helped lower the bank's cost of funds to 2.19 percent.

Barito River Dries Up, Exposing Stretches of Land Like a Desert

Prolonged drought in Central Kalimantan has caused severe shallowing of the Barito River, exposing sandbanks and new land formations in the middle of the waterway. The receding water levels are disrupting cargo and barge transport, forcing vessels to slow down or halt where depths are insufficient. Local residents report the river has been visibly receding since early August, raising concerns about wider distribution impacts if the dry conditions persist.

Komnas Haji Calls Proposed 60% Hajj Cost Subsidy from Benefit Funds a Time Bomb

The National Hajj and Umrah Commission (Komnas Haji) has warned that the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah's proposal to fund 60% of the 2027 Hajj pilgrimage costs from the benefit value managed by BPKH could create serious financial problems within one to two years. Chairman Mustolih Siradj described the scheme as a 'time bomb', citing unstable global economic conditions and geopolitical conflicts. He also noted that Saudi Arabia's removal of the D service in Armuzna is likely to push costs higher for pilgrims.

Swiss Tourist Sentenced to One Year in Prison for Insulting Nyepi

A Swiss tourist has been sentenced to one year in prison in Bali for posting social media content deemed insulting to the Hindu holy day of Nyepi. Luzian Andrin Zgraggen was found guilty of spreading religious hate content while Balinese Hindus were observing their day of silence. The case serves as a stern warning to foreign visitors to respect local customs and religious traditions.

MyCEB opens new sustainable business opportunities between Indonesia and Malaysia

The Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB) is strengthening business ties with Indonesia through a promotional roadshow under the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign. The initiative brought together 20 Malaysian industry partners with Indonesian travel agents, corporate meeting planners and business events stakeholders. MyCEB views Indonesia as a key regional market and aims to attract more quality business events to Malaysia while fostering long-term economic collaboration between the two countries.

Palangka Raya's air quality reaches hazardous levels amid haze

Palangka Raya is experiencing hazardous air quality due to extensive forest and land fires, with particulate matter levels reaching as high as 290.2. The city has recorded 298 fires burning 261.41 hectares since June, prompting officials to call for public participation in prevention efforts. The situation highlights the ongoing environmental and public health challenges posed by peatland fires in Central Kalimantan.

Jambi Concession Holders Told to Stay Alert and Step Up Forest Fire Prevention

The Jambi Forest and Land Fire Task Force has warned all concession holders in the province to actively engage in fire prevention and response. Companies are required to maintain their own firefighting teams and equipment, and to monitor at least five hectares beyond their concession boundaries. The Merangin regency government has also prepared contingency funds and urged residents not to use fire for land clearing.

Law Minister receives 322 complaints through Pasti Ada Solusi, what are the most common?

Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas reported that 322 public complaints were received across 12 episodes of the Pasti Ada Solusi programme. The most common issues raised were citizenship and notarial services, including notary conduct and the new non-tax state revenue (PNBP) tariffs. The minister emphasised the government's commitment to responsive bureaucracy and explained that the new tariffs will help fund the e-Notary system.

TNI deploys 14,167 personnel to tackle forest and land fires across Indonesia

The Indonesian Military (TNI) has deployed 14,167 personnel to combat forest and land fires nationwide, with operations including firefighting, patrols, monitoring, prevention and impact mitigation. The government is focusing on six high-risk provinces with vulnerable peatland areas, while also addressing fires in several national parks. Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago said around 43 helicopters and 10 to 15 fixed-wing aircraft have been mobilised to support the effort.

Indonesia and China Commit to Advancing Economic Cooperation

Indonesia and China have agreed to deepen economic ties through increased trade, investment, and new cooperation in areas such as artificial intelligence and maritime affairs. The two foreign ministers met in Jakarta for the first Comprehensive Strategic Dialogue, where they discussed the Action Plan 2027-2031 and efforts to address Chinese investors' concerns about Indonesia's regulatory environment. The partnership is framed as having regional significance, with both sides reaffirming commitments to ASEAN-China cooperation and APEC.

BMKG records 279 hotspots in Nabire, the most in Central Papua

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has recorded 279 hotspots in Nabire Regency between 20-21 August 2026, making it the area with the highest number of hotspots in Central Papua. The total number of hotspots across Central Papua reached 512, a significant increase of 108.1 percent compared to the previous monitoring period. Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and avoid burning activities that could trigger land and forest fires.

Central Government to Cover PPPK Teacher Salaries, Easing Bangka's Financial Burden

The central government plans to assume responsibility for salaries of teachers with government work agreements (PPPK) across all regions by 2027. Bangka Regency has welcomed the move, citing significant fiscal strain from paying its large number of PPPK teachers. The regency has already received Rp19 billion in central transfers to cover part-time PPPK salaries and has raised their monthly pay to Rp1.5 million.

Decile Polemic: Differences Between Central Government and Yogyakarta Regional Government Poverty Data

The Yogyakarta Special Region government has clarified that while it maintains its own detailed poverty intervention data, it still refers to the central government's DTSEN indicators for defining poverty. The regional data focuses on aid recipients and programme interventions, while the central BPS data remains the authoritative source for poverty classification.