Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 21 August 2026

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Viral! Foreign Tourist Commits Indecent Act in Front of Resident's House in Bali

A CCTV recording showing a foreign national engaging in an indecent act with two women in Canggu, Bali, has gone viral on social media. The incident occurred in the early hours of 20 August 2026 in front of a resident's garage. North Kuta Police have launched an investigation and pledged to increase patrols in vulnerable areas.

Indonesian Podcast Festival 2026 to Tour Cities Across Indonesia

The Indonesian Podcast Festival (IPF) 2026 will be held as a roadshow across several Indonesian cities, starting in Makassar in October 2026. Organisers aim to decentralise the podcast ecosystem, which remains heavily concentrated in Jakarta, by connecting national creators with local talent. The festival is expected to support the growth of the creative economy outside the capital.

Unsoed Rector Akhmad Sodiq Also Caught in KPK Sting Operation

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested the rector and two vice-rectors of Jenderal Soedirman University in a sting operation. The arrests are linked to alleged bribery in the university's independent medical faculty admissions pathway. The suspects were questioned for approximately 11 hours in Banyumas before being transported to Jakarta for further legal proceedings.

Andre Rosiade: In the Prabowo Era, the Limau Gadang Suspension Bridge Is Rebuilt

Deputy Chairman of Commission VI of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Andre Rosiade, has inspected the newly rebuilt Limau Gadang-Batu Kunik suspension bridge in Pesisir Selatan, West Sumatra. The bridge, which collapsed in a 2024 flood, was reconstructed with a contract value of Rp 4.65 billion as part of the Prabowo administration's nearly Rp 19 trillion rehabilitation and reconstruction programme for West Sumatra. Rosiade emphasised that the project demonstrates the government's commitment to delivering large-scale infrastructure funding to the region.

Fire destroys 15 houses in Paseban, Central Jakarta

A fire swept through a residential area in Paseban, Senen, Central Jakarta on Thursday evening, destroying 15 houses and affecting around 120 residents. No casualties were reported, and firefighters brought the blaze under control within about an hour. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

InJourney and Sarinah open market access for MSMEs to tourism ecosystem

State-owned tourism holding company InJourney and its subsidiary Sarinah have launched a programme to strengthen the capacity of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by opening market access within Indonesia's tourism ecosystem. The initiative builds on Sarinah PANDU, which has already trained more than 1,100 MSMEs, and involves 81 MSMEs receiving capacity building, curation, exhibition opportunities and market testing. The programme aims to ensure MSMEs can grow, become competitive and form part of the tourism value chain.

Zulhas Promotes Banyuwangi Hijau Programme as National Model

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan has highlighted the Banyuwangi Hijau programme as a leading example of community-based waste management and circular economy in Indonesia. The programme, supported by Austria, Norway, and the UAE, aims to achieve 100 per cent waste service coverage by 2028. The government is promoting the model for replication in other regions while encouraging waste-to-energy technology for larger cities.

Unsoed Rector Arrested by KPK While in Jakarta

The Rector of Jenderal Soedirman University, Akhmad Sodiq, has been detained by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in a sting operation. The arrest relates to alleged bribery or gratuities in the university's new student admissions process. A total of 14 people were detained, with cash evidence amounting to hundreds of millions of rupiah seized.

Trump: Iran negotiations hampered as many of its leaders have died

US President Donald Trump has said that negotiations with Iran have become complicated because many of the country's leaders have been killed. He made the remarks after announcing the start of an economic operation against Iran and calling on allies to join the United States. The situation follows the reported death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a February attack and the subsequent selection of his son Mojtaba as his successor.

Antam Gold Price Stays Flat Today

The price of gold produced by PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) remained unchanged on Friday, holding at Rp2.725 million per gram after a significant gain in the previous session. The buyback price also stayed steady at Rp2.585 million per gram, leaving the spread at Rp140,000.

BPBD Records 936 Hectares of Forest and Land Burned in East Kalimantan

East Kalimantan's disaster mitigation agency has recorded 413 forest and land fire hotspots, with a total burned area of 936.95 hectares. West Kutai Regency has the largest burned area at 269.34 hectares, while Paser Regency has the highest number of hotspots at 85. The fires are affecting multiple districts across the province, with Berau, East Kutai, and Kutai Kartanegara identified as areas of particular concern.

KPK reveals sting operation at Unsoed Rectorate over new student admissions

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has conducted a sting operation against officials at Jenderal Soedirman University's rectorate over alleged bribery in new student admissions. The KPK expressed regret that corruption has tainted the education sector, particularly at the very gateway to higher education. Those detained include the university's rector and two vice-rectors.

What Is to Come Can Be More Beautiful

An editorial reflection explores the Quranic verse from Surah Ad-Dhuha, which promises that what comes later is better than what came before. Drawing on classical commentaries, the piece argues that Islamic optimism is grounded not in worldly outcomes but in the believer's journey towards God. It encourages readers to trust that closed doors and delayed prayers may be part of a divine plan they cannot yet see.

Zulhas pushes for stronger irrigation and farmer institutions in Banyuwangi

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan has urged improvements to irrigation networks and farmer institutions in Banyuwangi, East Java, to sustain agricultural productivity and support national food self-sufficiency. During a dialogue with farmers, he encouraged them to channel complaints through local government while copying him so he can monitor resolution. Key issues raised included river siltation and sedimentation affecting water distribution across thousands of hectares of rice fields.

House Commission VIII Calls for Evaluation of Proposed 2027 Hajj Costs

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission VIII has urged the government to conduct a thorough evaluation of the proposed 2027 Hajj pilgrimage costs. Selly Andriany Gantina stressed that efficiency and transparency must be prioritised before any fee increase is considered. The government has proposed an average cost of Rp107.34 million per pilgrim for 2027.

Two Suspicious Men Arrested in Depok, Turned Out to Be Selling Synthetic Tobacco

Police in Depok have arrested two young men suspected of distributing synthetic tobacco, a type of narcotic. The suspects allegedly used social media and a drop-off system to avoid direct transactions. Officers seized 79 packets of synthetic tobacco weighing 108.23 grams along with digital scales and mobile phones.

The Story of Indonesia's 'Poorest Minister' Who Worked in a 'Wet Field'

Sutami, who served as Minister of Public Works and Public Housing for 14 years under the New Order, was known as Indonesia's 'poorest minister' for his refusal to exploit his position for personal gain. Despite overseeing major infrastructure projects, he lived modestly, often walking long distances to inspect rural projects and only acquiring a home after leaving office. His legacy includes landmark projects such as the Jagorawi toll road, Semanggi Bridge, and Ampera Bridge.

Customs Destroys Illegal Cigarettes and Alcohol Worth Rp20.18 Billion in Jakarta

The Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC) Jakarta Regional Office has destroyed illegal excisable goods valued at Rp20.18 billion, including 12.97 million cigarettes and 1,506 bottles of illicit alcohol. The goods were seized during operations conducted from 2025 to July 2026, with estimated state losses of Rp11.81 billion. The action underscores the government's commitment to protecting society and maintaining a fair business climate.

Viral Complaint from Ioniq 5 Electric Car Owner: A PR Practitioner's Perspective

A viral complaint from a Hyundai Ioniq 5 owner has highlighted shortcomings in sales staff product knowledge and after-sales service. PR practitioner Bima Marzuki argues that the case should serve as a lesson for automotive companies to better manage sales communication and customer complaint channels. He warns that overpromising during the sales process can lead to disappointed customers and reputational damage.

Ioniq 5 Owner's Viral Complaint: A PR Practitioner's Perspective

A viral complaint from a Hyundai Ioniq 5 owner about misleading sales information and poor after-sales service has prompted a public relations practitioner to call for better product knowledge and communication training for automotive sales staff. Bima Marzuki argues that unaddressed customer complaints can escalate when sales personnel overpromise vehicle capabilities. He stresses that consumers often rely more on verbal promises from salespeople than on technical brochures.

Danantara Housing Expo 2026: Pos Properti Showcases Flagship Housing Projects in 5 Cities

PT Pos Properti Indonesia is participating in the Danantara Housing Expo 2026, presenting premium and subsidised housing projects across five cities. The exhibition, organised by Danantara Indonesia and the Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas, aims to support the Three Million Houses Programme. President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to attend the event, which will feature over 220 developers and more than 200,000 property units.

Antam gold price stable at Rp2.725 million per gram on Friday

The price of Antam gold remained unchanged at Rp2.725 million per gram on Friday morning, with the buyback price also steady at Rp2.585 million per gram. Transactions above Rp10 million are subject to a 1.5 percent income tax, while purchases incur a 0.25 percent tax. The full price list for various gold weights was published.

Wahdah Islamiyah Congress: Time for the Ummah to Collaborate

The fifth congress of Wahdah Islamiyah has emphasised the importance of unity among Islamic organisations in Indonesia. The organisation's Sharia Council chairman called for greater collaboration and synergy between different Islamic groups, setting aside group ego for the greater good. The event was presented as evidence of Wahdah Islamiyah's commitment to inclusive Islamic brotherhood.

When Ojol Became Guests of Honour at Polri's Day of Struggle in Bekasi City Metro Police

Bekasi City Metro Police invited online motorcycle taxi drivers, students, and community volunteers as guests of honour during the 2026 Polri Day of Struggle ceremony. The event commemorated the 1945 Police Proclamation and recognised community partners for their role in maintaining public safety. Police awarded certificates of appreciation to ojol representatives and 'Burgeract' volunteers for their contributions to road safety and security.

Unsoed Rector Arrested by KPK

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested the Rector of Jenderal Soedirman University, Prof. Akhmad Sodiq, along with two vice-rectors in a sting operation. The arrests mark the KPK's 19th such operation in 2026. The KPK has 24 hours to determine the legal status of those detained.

Accelerating Free Nutritious Meals in 3T Regions, Zulhas: Do Not Reduce the Menu

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan inspected the readiness of nutrition service units in Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, as part of efforts to accelerate the Free Nutritious Meals programme in underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost regions. The government is reorganising 8,617 service units in remote areas, including 1,703 in 3T regions, to support stunting reduction. Zulhas stressed that the programme's nutritional standards and menu must not be reduced.

KPK Detains 14 People in Sting Operation Against Unsoed Rector, 9 Questioned in Jakarta

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained 14 individuals in a sting operation involving the Rector of Jenderal Soedirman University, Akhmas Sodiq, over alleged corruption in the new student admission process. Nine people are now being questioned at the KPK's headquarters in Jakarta, while hundreds of millions of rupiah were seized as evidence. The KPK has 24 hours to determine the legal status of those detained.

Rupiah Opens Higher, US Dollar Falls to Rp17,720 This Morning

The Indonesian rupiah strengthened against the US dollar at the opening of trading on Friday, extending its positive trend ahead of the release of Indonesia's balance of payments data. The dollar remains under pressure amid concerns over the US fiscal deficit and uncertainty about Federal Reserve policy. Market attention is focused on the upcoming balance of payments figures and the Jackson Hole symposium for further direction.

KAI North Sumatra: 1.13 million passengers use PSO-subsidised train services

PT Kereta Api Indonesia's Regional Division I North Sumatra recorded 1,130,771 passengers using Public Service Obligation (PSO) subsidised train services between January and July 2026. The KA Putri Deli route from Medan to Tanjungbalai accounted for 67 per cent of total passengers, with 317,326 passengers carried, a 6 per cent increase year-on-year. The company highlighted that affordable fares help reduce daily travel costs and support economic and social mobility across the region.

Indonesia Stock Exchange to Remove Rp50 Minimum Price Limit, Here Are the Stocks in the 'Gocap Club'

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) plans to abolish the Rp50 minimum share price limit to improve liquidity and price discovery. The exchange is consulting with market participants, including securities and investment manager associations, before finalising the policy. A list of 45 stocks currently trading at the Rp50 floor price has been published.

KPK Confirms Sting Operation at Unsoed, Other Parties Under Investigation

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed a sting operation at Jenderal Soedirman University (Unsoed) in Central Java, with at least five people detained, including two vice-rectors. The case is reportedly linked to the independent admission process for the university's medical faculty. KPK Chairman Setyo Budiyanto said investigators are still examining the involvement of other individuals beyond the university leadership.

UN Secretary-General concerned over escalation of Russia-Ukraine conflict

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed deep concern over the continued escalation of the conflict in Ukraine, including attacks extending into Russian territory. The UN has reiterated that attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure violate international humanitarian law wherever they occur. Guterres continues to urge de-escalation and an unconditional ceasefire.

Toshiba Launches Compact 80V Electronic Fuse (eFuse IC) for 48V Power Line Protection in Industrial Equipment

Toshiba Electronic Devices & Storage Corporation has introduced the TCKE1401NM, an 80V electronic fuse IC designed to protect power lines in industrial equipment. The device features an industry-leading compact VQFN24D package and integrates multiple protection functions, including overcurrent, overvoltage, reverse current blocking, and thermal shutdown. It supports a wide operating voltage range of 4.7V to 75V, making it suitable for 24V, 48V, and 54V power systems.

IHSG Continues to Strengthen, Opens Up 0.38% This Morning

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened higher on Friday, extending its rally after reclaiming the 6,500 psychological level. The market's upward momentum was supported by broad-based buying, though investors remain cautious about global geopolitical tensions and upcoming domestic economic data releases.

The Story of Uthman bin Affan's Envoy to China Who Stopped Over in Central Tapanuli

Historical sources indicate that Muslim traders from Arabia had established contact with the Indonesian archipelago as early as the 7th century, during the era of the Rashidun Caliphs. Envoys dispatched by Caliph Uthman bin Affan to China are said to have stopped in the archipelago, with Chinese Tang Dynasty records noting Arab settlements on the west coast of Sumatra by 674 CE. A gravestone in Barus, Central Tapanuli, dated 47 AH (670 CE), further supports the claim that Islam reached the archipelago in the first century of the Islamic calendar.

2027 Civil Service Selection to Open, System Traced to Dutch Origins

The Indonesian government and parliament have finalised policies allowing contract-based government teachers (PPPK) to apply for civil servant positions (CPNS) starting in early 2027. The article traces the roots of Indonesia's civil service system to reforms introduced by Herman Willem Daendels, Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies from 1808 to 1811. Daendels established a centralised, hierarchical bureaucracy with salaried officials, which later became the foundation for Indonesia's post-independence civil service.

804 Educational Facilities Damaged by NTT Earthquake

The earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara has damaged 804 educational facilities, according to the National Disaster Management Agency. The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is preparing 100 emergency school tents to ensure teaching and learning can continue. Damage to schools is a key focus of post-disaster recovery efforts.

MBG and KDMP: Strengthening Policy, Correcting Its Course

An academic argues that Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meal Programme (MBG) should be assessed not only on legal grounds but also on principles of justice and equitable distribution. The author contends that the programme's large budget should generate broader economic benefits for farmers, fishermen, and small businesses rather than concentrating value among established players. The piece calls for a shift from questioning the programme's noble goals to scrutinising its implementation and beneficiaries.

Preventing Stunting with Local Food: UNISA Bandung Introduces OMEGA Innovation

Universitas 'Aisyiyah Bandung has launched the OMEGA programme to train Posyandu cadres in Cibangkong, Bandung, to process local food into nutritious children's menus. The initiative, funded by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, aims to strengthen community capacity for stunting prevention through practical education and ongoing mentoring. The programme includes cooking classes, educational materials, and the handover of kitchen equipment to support sustainable use in Posyandu activities.

KPK Arrests Unsoed Rector in Sting Operation over Alleged Bribery in New Student Admissions

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has conducted a sting operation in Purwokerto, Central Java, detaining the Rector of Universitas Soedirman, Akhmad Sodiq, over alleged bribery linked to new student admissions. Hundreds of millions of rupiah in cash were seized as evidence. A total of 14 people were initially detained, with nine currently undergoing examination in Jakarta.

Saudi Arabia Blocks Rp66.17 Billion Hajj Down Payment for 2027, Indonesia Seeks Clarification

Indonesia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has requested clarification from Saudi Arabia after 14 million riyal (Rp66.17 billion) of down payment funds for the 2027 hajj season was blocked. The blockage is reportedly linked to an evaluation of insurance provisions for the 2026 hajj. Indonesia has sent a diplomatic note through its embassy in Riyadh and is seeking detailed verification of the alleged insurance violations.

KPK Secures Hundreds of Millions of Rupiah in Sting Operation Against Unsoed Rector

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested the Rector of Jenderal Soedirman University, Akhmad Sodiq, in a sting operation in Purwokerto, Central Java. A total of 14 people were detained in connection with alleged corruption in new student admissions. The KPK expressed regret over corruption occurring within educational institutions.

Subsidised fertiliser stocks in Karawang and West Java secure ahead of planting season

PT Pupuk Kujang has confirmed that subsidised fertiliser supplies in Karawang and West Java are sufficient for the third planting season in August-September 2026. Current stocks in Karawang total around 4,829.92 tonnes, comprising urea, NPK, and organic fertiliser. Distribution of subsidised fertiliser across West Java has reached 55 per cent of the 2026 allocation as of the end of July.

SCVC Successfully Performs First M-TEER in Bali Without Open Surgery

Sapporo Cardio Vascular Clinic (SCVC Bali) has successfully performed the first Mitral Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair (M-TEER) procedure at Bali International Hospital, offering a minimally invasive alternative to open-heart surgery for mitral valve leakage. The procedure, carried out on 2 August, involved collaboration between Indonesian doctors and international specialists from Hong Kong and China. SCVC Bali and its partners aim to expand access to advanced cardiovascular care in Indonesia, reducing the need for patients to seek treatment abroad.

Stock Recommendations Today: AMMN, BUMI, to UNVR

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) closed up 1.68% at 6,501.59 on Thursday, with foreign investors recording a net buy of Rp733.69 billion. The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) plans to lower the minimum price limit for equity securities from Rp50 to Rp1 per share, effective 7 September 2026, which is expected to boost transaction frequency and value. Mega Capital Sekuritas issued buy recommendations for AMMN, BUMI, TAPG, LSIP, and UNVR.

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga RU Cilacap Opens Tender for Replacement of Column Assy 11C-1

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga Refinery Unit IV Cilacap has announced an open tender for the replacement of Column Assy 11C-1 in the Fuel Oil Complex I area. The tender, open until 24 August 2026, aims to maintain operational reliability and ensure production continuity. Interested suppliers can register online through the company's official procurement system.

KPK Arrests Unsoed Rector in Sting Operation

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained the rector of Jenderal Soedirman University, Akhmad Sodiq, in a sting operation in Purwokerto. A total of 14 people were taken into custody across Purwokerto and Jakarta in connection with a corruption case. The suspects remain under examination while the KPK determines their legal status within 24 hours.

Unsoed Rectorate Officials, Including Rector, Arrested by KPK in Sting Operation

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has conducted its 19th sting operation of 2026, arresting several senior officials from Jenderal Soedirman University (Unsoed), including the rector. KPK Chairman Setyo Budiyanto confirmed that Rector Prof. Akhmad Sodiq, Vice Rector for Academic Affairs Prof. Noor Farid, and Vice Rector for Student Affairs Prof. Norman Arie Prayogo were among those detained. The operation highlights ongoing anti-corruption efforts targeting higher education institutions in Indonesia.

PLN Confirms Flores Power Generation System Back to Normal After Earthquake

State electricity company PLN has confirmed that power generation systems across Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, have returned to normal less than 24 hours after an earthquake struck the region. With available capacity of 137 MW against peak demand of 93 MW, supply is sufficient to meet community needs. PLN has also restored isolated power plants serving remote areas and distributed food aid to affected residents.

Trade Minister encourages students to start businesses and become exporters

Trade Minister Budi Santoso has urged university students to pursue entrepreneurship and explore opportunities as exporters. Speaking at Universitas Veteran Bangun Nusantara in Sukoharjo, he highlighted programmes such as Campuspreneur and UMKM BISA Ekspor, which aim to equip students and small businesses with export skills. The ministry also offers internships at Indonesian trade representative offices abroad to help students understand international markets.