Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 21 August 2026

Showing 51-100 of 1,528 articles

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 2023โ€“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.