Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 21 August 2026

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Scientists Reveal New Facts: One Bomb Explodes in Indonesian Waters Every 62 Minutes

A new study using underwater microphones and machine learning has found that blast fishing remains rampant in Indonesia's Spermonde Islands, with an average of one bomb explosion every 62 minutes. Researchers recorded 3,570 explosions over 3,650 hours, projecting approximately 8,500 blasts per year. The practice devastates coral reef habitats, and experts stress the need for both enforcement and sustainable economic alternatives for coastal communities.

BNPB receives Air Force, Jakarta aid supplies for quake-hit NTT

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has received 34.38 tons of relief supplies from the Air Force and Jakarta administration for victims of the 7.7 magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The aid includes staple goods, medical supplies, and water tanks, with 17 tons already dispatched to the affected region. The coordinated effort highlights strong inter-agency cooperation in disaster response.

Polda Metro Jaya foils distribution of 108.23 grams of synthetic tobacco in Depok

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police narcotics directorate has intercepted the circulation of 79 ready-to-sell packets of synthetic tobacco weighing 108.23 grams in Limo, Depok, West Java. Two young men, aged 20 and 19, were arrested for allegedly acting as a dealer and a courier. The suspects used social media accounts and a drop-off system without face-to-face contact to avoid direct transactions.

Forest Fire Hotspots in Kalimantan Quadruple in a Single Day

The Ministry of Forestry has reported a sharp increase in forest fire hotspots across Kalimantan, with the daily count rising more than fourfold to 518 high-confidence detections on 19 August 2026. The ministry emphasised that hotspot data does not directly equate to fire incidents or smoke density, and that field verification remains essential. Authorities have deployed around 12,880 personnel and are continuing water bombing and weather modification operations in the affected provinces.

Shopee doubles donations, strengthens digital mutual aid to recover NTT

Shopee Indonesia has raised Rp150 million through its Shopee Peduli initiative to support earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara, and has doubled the total to Rp300 million for immediate distribution via Rumah Zakat. The donation feature, available in the Shopee app, allows users to contribute easily until September 2026. The company says the programme demonstrates how digital ecosystems can strengthen gotong royong and broaden public participation in disaster recovery.

Parents in Pontianak Anxious Over Haze from Forest Fires, Hope Schools Are Closed

Parents of students in Pontianak, West Kalimantan, are urging local education authorities to close schools or switch to remote learning as thick haze from forest and land fires blankets the city. Air quality in Pontianak has reached hazardous levels, with an AQI of 491 and PM2.5 concentrations far exceeding safe limits. Satellite monitoring has detected 3,759 hotspots across West Kalimantan, with Ketapang regency recording the highest number.

On Police Struggle Day, South Sumatra Police Chief Visits Home of Police Hero

South Sumatra Police Chief Inspector General Sandi Nugroho visited the family home of the late AKBP Agoestjik Bakri in Palembang to mark Police Struggle Day. The visit honoured Bakri's role in the 1947 Five Days and Five Nights Battle and his broader revolutionary service. Police officials said his legacy should inspire current personnel to dedicate themselves to the nation.

Two Victims Killed in Jagorawi Jeep Accident Suffered Severe Burns

Two people died after a Mercedes-Benz Jeep crashed into the rear of a trailer truck on the Jagorawi Toll Road in the early hours of Friday morning. Police said the vehicle was travelling at high speed and burst into flames upon impact, leaving both victims with severe burns and their identities unidentifiable. The case has been handed over to the East Jakarta Traffic Accident Unit.

Depok Chamber of Commerce Holds City Conference, Almer Faiq Urges Closer Strategic Collaboration with City Government

The Depok chapter of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) has held its city conference (Mukota), attended by Mayor Supian Suri and other local leaders. West Java Kadin chairman Almer Faiq Rusydi praised the event and called for closer collaboration between Kadin Depok and the city government to support regional economic growth. He also urged the organisation to adhere strictly to its articles of association in its governance.

25 Countries Offering Visa on Arrival for Indonesian Passport Holders

Indonesian passport holders can access Visa on Arrival (VoA) facilities in 40 destinations worldwide, according to the Passport Index 2026. The index shows Indonesian citizens have visa-free access to 42 destinations, VoA access to 40, and Electronic Travel Authorization to 7, while 109 destinations still require a conventional visa. The article lists 25 countries offering VoA or combined eVisa/VoA options, with stay durations ranging from 30 to 150 days.

Farmers utilise receding Gajah Mungkur reservoir area to plant rice

Farmers in Wonogiri, Central Java, are converting unproductive land exposed by the receding waters of the Gajah Mungkur reservoir into new rice fields during the dry season. The initiative is expected to yield a harvest within three months and aims to boost the local agricultural economy.

Flores Power Generation System Back to Normal After Earthquake

PLN has restored the electricity generation system in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, less than 24 hours after a major earthquake struck the region. The state-owned utility confirmed that available capacity of 137 MW is sufficient to meet the peak load of 93 MW. PLN is also conducting further assessments to strengthen infrastructure resilience in the disaster-prone island region.

Desil Mismatch? Here's How to Change Your Kemensos Desil Online and Offline

The Ministry of Social Affairs has introduced a ten-tier welfare classification system, known as desil, to guide social assistance distribution. Citizens who believe their assigned desil does not reflect their actual economic circumstances can request a data correction. The ministry provides both online and offline mechanisms for submitting these appeals.

Strengthening Strategic Partnership to Accelerate Cloud Transformation in Indonesia

IDstar has deepened its collaboration with Tencent Cloud to support enterprise cloud transformation in Indonesia, including a major migration project for a leading telecommunications company. The partnership combines Tencent Cloud's scalable infrastructure and migration tools with IDstar's implementation and managed services expertise. The companies plan to expand their collaboration across telecommunications, BFSI, manufacturing, and other enterprise sectors.

TNI coordinates efforts to secure Jila residents held hostage

The Indonesian military is coordinating with local authorities in Mimika, Central Papua, to locate and secure residents reportedly abducted by an armed group. Nine women and girls were taken from Pasir Putih Village on 17–18 August, prompting a joint response involving the 173/PVB Military Resort Command and the TNI Joint Operations Command. Security measures are being implemented to restore stability in the Jila area.

Unsoed Speaks Out After Rector Caught in KPK Sting Operation

Jenderal Soedirman University (Unsoed) has responded after several of its officials, including the rector, were detained in a Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) sting operation. The university says it is awaiting official clarification from the KPK before taking a formal stance. The KPK has confirmed that 14 people were arrested in connection with alleged manipulation of the new student admissions process.

South Korean Restaurant Owner in Surabaya Accused of Raping Employee, Victim Reports to Police

A 28-year-old female employee of a Korean restaurant in Surabaya has filed a police report against her South Korean employer, alleging repeated sexual assault between March and July 2026. The victim claims she was plied with alcohol, taken to hotels, and threatened with dismissal and violence against her family. A second report has also been lodged by a 24-year-old domestic worker from Malang.

BPJPH affirms readiness of halal product assurance ecosystem ahead of mandatory halal implementation

Indonesia's Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) has confirmed that the entire halal certification ecosystem is prepared for the mandatory halal certification deadline on 18 October 2026. The agency stressed that enforcement will be carried out consistently in accordance with prevailing laws and regulations. BPJPH also emphasised the importance of strengthening collaboration with Halal Inspection Bodies (LPH) and other stakeholders to ensure effective implementation while maintaining proportionality for micro and small enterprises.

DPR Suddenly Accelerates Oil and Gas Bill Deliberation, Here Is the Explanation from Lawmakers

Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) is accelerating the long-delayed revision of the 2001 Oil and Gas Law, aiming to complete it before the current sitting period ends in mid-October. The new bill follows a 2012 Constitutional Court ruling that dissolved BP Migas and mandates the creation of a Special Business Entity (BUK) to replace SKK Migas, with the goal of boosting oil lifting and strengthening energy security.

Marines deploy 217 personnel to assist recovery efforts in NTT

The Indonesian Marine Corps has dispatched 217 personnel to Nusa Tenggara Timur to support medical treatment and accelerate recovery following the recent earthquake. The task force includes health workers, field support, and construction engineers, along with heavy equipment and field facilities. They are expected to remain in the area until conditions stabilise and recovery is complete.

BPS Clarifies Decile System to Yogyakarta Government: Not an Absolute Rich-Poor Label

Statistics Indonesia (BPS) has explained its decile-based welfare classification system to the Yogyakarta Special Region administration following protests over apparent inconsistencies in the data. The agency stressed that decile rankings are based on 41 variables rather than income alone and do not constitute an absolute label of wealth or poverty. The regional government is seeking to align its own poverty data with the central government's system to ensure coherent policy implementation.

BMKG: Air Quality in Kubu Raya, West Kalimantan Reaches Hazardous 'Black' Category

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has reported that air quality in Kubu Raya, West Kalimantan, has deteriorated to the hazardous 'black' category, with PM2.5 concentrations reaching 276 µg/m³. The severe pollution is largely attributed to forest and land fires, particularly in the region's extensive peatland areas. Authorities have activated task forces at district and village levels to accelerate prevention and response efforts.

Indonesian Baby Food Issuer Acquired, Has New Controller

PT Hassana Boga Sejahtera Tbk (NAYZ), an Indonesian baby food issuer, has announced that Saiko Consultancy Pte Ltd acquired 750 million shares from Asia Intrainvesta at Rp23.5 per share, making Saiko the new controlling shareholder with a 29.41% stake. The acquisition price represents a steep discount to both the IPO price and the prevailing market price. Saiko will proceed with a mandatory tender offer through its subsidiary Saiko Consultancy Grand.

15 MSMEs and 3 baristas from East Kalimantan participate in Karya Kreatif Indonesia 2026

Fifteen leading micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and three top baristas from East Kalimantan are competing in the prestigious Karya Kreatif Indonesia (KKI) 2026 event in Jakarta. Bank Indonesia's East Kalimantan representative emphasised that participation aims to expand local product exposure, build business networks, and open wider market access at national and export levels. The annual event, now in its 11th year, runs from 20–23 August 2026.

Practitioner Says Resort Business Model Determines Input Tax Credit Rights

A tax practitioner has explained that the choice between traditional and hybrid business models in resort development determines whether input VAT on construction can be credited. The hybrid model, where units are sold to buyers but managed by a hotel operator, allows input tax credits because the sale is a VAT-able supply, unlike traditional hotel operations which are not subject to VAT. The discussion covered tax implications from land acquisition through to exit strategy.

President's muted Nusantara support chills investment

President Prabowo Subianto's omission of the Nusantara capital project from his State of the Nation address and 2027 budget speech has dampened investor confidence in the megaproject. The 2027 budget allocates only Rp 6.7 trillion to the IKN Authority, a fraction of the Rp 89 trillion spent under the previous administration, while analysts warn the project risks becoming a costly drain on state finances without significant new investment.

Won and Rupiah Lead Asia in Pushing Back Against Dollar, Ringgit Lags

Most Asian currencies strengthened against the US dollar on Friday as the greenback weakened in global markets. The South Korean won posted the sharpest gain, while the Indonesian rupiah also advanced. The Malaysian ringgit bucked the trend, recording the deepest decline in the region.

Oncom Factory in Bogor Destroyed by Fire, Owner Suffers Rp 200 Million Loss

A fire destroyed an oncom factory in Pasir Jaya, West Bogor, in the early hours of Friday morning. Firefighters extinguished the blaze within 25 minutes and no casualties were reported. The owner is estimated to have suffered material losses of around Rp 200 million, with the cause still under investigation.

IHSG Continues Rally, Opens Up at 6,524

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened higher on Friday, rising 0.35 percent to 6,524.07, as investors weighed domestic regulatory changes and global market sentiment. The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) plans to revise minimum share price rules and auto rejection thresholds, with implementation targeted for 7 September 2026. Rising US Treasury yields and oil price gains following US sanctions threats against Iran are among the external factors being monitored.

Supreme Court issues SEMA 3/2026 guidance for judges handling pretrial motions

Indonesia's Supreme Court has issued Circular Letter (SEMA) Number 3 of 2026 to guide judges in general courts on handling pretrial motions that intersect with main cases. The circular aims to provide legal certainty and uphold the principles of simple, speedy, and low-cost justice. It clarifies when a main case may proceed or be halted depending on the timing of a pretrial filing.

Indonesia Invites Germany to 'Plant Money' in Green Energy and Semiconductors

Indonesia and Germany are strengthening economic ties by targeting strategic sectors including renewable energy, semiconductors, and vocational education. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto highlighted that German investment in Indonesia reached US$1.23 billion from 2021 to 2026, with further opportunities in green energy projects and the Just Energy Transition Partnership. Both countries are also pushing to finalise the Indonesia-European Union Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement this year.

Dark Matter Suspected as 'Driver' of Supermassive Black Hole Energy Jets

A new astronomical study suggests dark matter may interact in previously unimagined ways, potentially amplifying the jets of radiation and matter emitted by supermassive black holes. The findings could help researchers understand how galaxies evolve and how large-scale structures in the universe formed. Astronomers hope future telescope observations will verify the effect and shed light on the true nature of dark matter.

BCA Appreciates Business Customers Through Gebyar Badan Usaha

PT Bank Central Asia Tbk (BCA) has launched its Gebyar Badan Usaha prize draw programme to reward business customers who consistently use its Giro Rupiah and other banking services. The programme, running from 1 December 2025 to 30 June 2026, offers 105 prizes including a Mercedes-Benz and hybrid vehicles. BCA emphasised its commitment to strengthening cash management services and warned customers to be vigilant against fraud attempts using the programme's name.

Judge Declares Dr Tifa's Pretrial Motion Null and Void

The South Jakarta District Court has ruled that the pretrial motion filed by Tifauzia Tyassuma, known as Dr Tifa, is null and void. The judge stated that since the case file has already been transferred to the East Jakarta District Court, Tifa's legal standing is now that of a defendant, and she should have raised her objections during the main examination rather than through a pretrial motion. The case relates to alleged defamation concerning the academic credentials of former President Joko Widodo.

Forest Fire Haze Delays 21 Flights at Pontianak Airport in 4 Days

Haze from forest and land fires has disrupted operations at Supadio Airport in Pontianak, West Kalimantan, causing 21 morning flights to be delayed between 18 and 21 August 2026. Visibility dropped to between 400 and 800 metres, below the minimum required for safe landings. Airport authorities are coordinating with BMKG and BNPB to monitor conditions and have urged passengers to check flight statuses regularly.

Pope Leo XIV Mourns NTT Earthquake, Expresses Solidarity with Victims

Pope Leo XIV has expressed deep sorrow and spiritual solidarity with the people of East Nusa Tenggara following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck the region on 15 August 2026. In a telegram to Archbishop Paulus Budi Kleden of Ende, the Pope encouraged Church leaders and civil authorities to continue humanitarian efforts. The disaster has claimed at least 75 lives, with 907 people injured and thousands of aftershocks recorded.

Israel converts UNRWA school in Jerusalem into state school

Israeli authorities have converted a former UNRWA school in the Shu'fat refugee camp in occupied Jerusalem into a school run by the Israeli education department and Jerusalem municipality. Deputy Mayor Aryeh King posted a video showing the removal of UNRWA signage, stating the aim was to erase all traces of the agency from Jerusalem. The move follows the closure of six UNRWA schools in Jerusalem in May 2025, affecting around 800 Palestinian children.

Jambi Customs and Kerinci Police Seize 499,200 Illegal Golden Long Cigarettes

Jambi Customs and Kerinci Police have confiscated 499,200 sticks of Golden Long cigarettes lacking excise stamps. The operation highlights inter-agency cooperation in combating illegal excisable goods. Authorities emphasised their commitment to protecting state revenue and ensuring fair business competition.

YUPI Gum Confectionery Issuer Distributes Rp145.36 Billion Dividend

PT Yupi Indo Jelly Gum Tbk (YUPI) has announced an interim dividend of Rp145.36 billion for the 2026 financial year, equivalent to 45 percent of its first-half net profit. The dividend, approved by the board on 18 August 2026, amounts to approximately Rp17 per share. Based on the closing share price of Rp1,305, the payout represents a yield of around 1.3 percent.

Minister strengthens guidance for 130,000 cooperatives to boost national economy

Cooperatives Minister Ferry Juliantono has reaffirmed the government's commitment to strengthening the guidance of around 130,000 existing cooperatives across Indonesia. The initiative aims to improve institutional quality, governance, and competitiveness so that cooperatives can contribute more significantly to national economic growth. The minister also highlighted the role of cooperatives in consolidating community economic potential and supporting the national priority programme for village cooperatives.

BPK Launches Thematic Audit to Strengthen National Energy Security

The Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) has commenced a national thematic audit of the country's energy security programme, covering 59 entities across central government, regional governments, and state-owned enterprises. The audit will assess policy design, governance, and implementation across the primary energy, energy transformation, final energy use, and mineral sectors. It will also evaluate follow-up on recurring issues such as energy subsidies, upstream oil and gas lifting, and coal domestic market obligations.

Unpad Rector and Dedi Mulyadi Clarify Viral Video of New Student

A viral video of a new Padjadjaran University student sharing her personal struggles with West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi sparked online speculation that she was distressed and intended to quit her studies. Both the university rector and the governor have firmly denied the claims, stating that her tuition has been fully paid for eight semesters and that she remains enrolled. The student has requested the public to stop sharing clips of her personal story.

East Jakarta PKK cadres become driving force in family stunting prevention

Family Welfare Empowerment (PKK) cadres in East Jakarta are being mobilised to accelerate stunting reduction through education and family mentoring. The city administration is strengthening cadre capacity across all administrative levels, from city to neighbourhood units, to help meet the national target of reducing stunting prevalence to 18.8 per cent by 2026. East Jakarta recorded 812 stunting cases in early 2025, with Cakung district having the highest number.

Indonesia's army in Central Papua calls Jila abductions "inhumane"

The Indonesian military has condemned the abduction of nine women and girls in Jila, Central Papua, describing the act as inhumane and a violation of basic humanitarian principles. Security forces are pursuing the armed group responsible while coordinating with local government to deliver food aid to traumatised residents who have stopped farming. The victims, including children and a pregnant teenager, were taken on 17 August, prompting a continued military and police presence to support the affected community.

Global Inflation and Its Impact on Indonesia's Economy

Global inflation is driving up import costs, weakening the rupiah, and prompting interest rate adjustments that squeeze Indonesian businesses and consumers. However, rising commodity prices for palm oil, coal, and nickel offer export revenue gains, while higher import costs may encourage domestic production. The article argues that strengthening supply chains, supporting small businesses, and balanced monetary policy can help Indonesia turn inflationary pressure into sustainable growth.

NPL Maintained at 0.19% and CASA Ratio 83%, Citi Indonesia Strengthens Institutional Banking Business

Citi Indonesia reported a net profit of Rp994 billion in the first half of 2026, supported by strong growth in lending and third-party funds. The bank's low-cost funding ratio rose to 83.23% while non-performing loans remained very low at 0.19%. Citi Indonesia also played key roles in major national transactions, including bond issuances for Danantara and PLN.

Unsoed awaits KPK explanation over arrest operation involving officials

Jenderal Soedirman University (Unsoed) in Purwokerto is awaiting an official statement from the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) following a sting operation that reportedly ensnared several senior university officials. The university has refrained from taking a formal position until the legal status of those detained is clarified. KPK Chairman Setyo Budiyanto confirmed that Rector Prof Akhmad Sodiq and two vice-rectors were among those apprehended.

IHSG strengthens as market weighs domestic and global sentiment

The Indonesia Stock Exchange Composite Index (IHSG) opened higher on Friday, rising 0.35 per cent to 6,524.07, as investors assessed both domestic and global factors. Analysts noted the index could test 6,600 and potentially close the gap at 6,700 if it holds above the 100-day moving average. The exchange also announced planned changes to minimum share price and auto rejection rules, with implementation targeted for 7 September 2026.

Benny Sinomba, Uncle of Bobby Nasution, Transferred to North Sumatra Provincial Government

Benny Sinomba, Head of the Medan City Library and Archives Service and uncle of North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution, has been officially transferred to the North Sumatra Provincial Government as of 1 August 2026. The Medan City Government has appointed an acting official to fill his former position. Sinomba previously held several strategic roles in the Medan city administration, including Head of the Education and Culture Service.

DPR Suddenly Accelerates Discussion of Oil and Gas Bill, What Is Happening?

Indonesia's House of Representatives is fast-tracking a new Oil and Gas Law to replace the 2001 legislation, aiming to provide permanent legal certainty for upstream investors and comply with a 2012 Constitutional Court ruling. The bill proposes unifying state control over oil and gas management and establishing a special business entity under the direct authority of the President. Parliament targets completing the legislative process before the current sitting period ends in mid-October.