Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 22 August 2026

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Indonesia Investment Reaches Rp 1,010 Trillion, Business Leaders Highlight Impact on Local Industry

Indonesia recorded Rp 1,010.6 trillion in investment realisation in the first half of 2026, up 7.2% year-on-year and supporting around 1.45 million jobs. The chairman of HIPMI welcomed the milestone but stressed that investment must strengthen domestic industry and create broader opportunities for local entrepreneurs. He called for stronger financing access, regulatory certainty, and partnerships between investors, large companies, MSMEs, and regional businesses.

Indonesia steps up monitoring haze effects on flights in Kalimantan

Indonesia's Ministry of Transport is intensifying monitoring of haze impacts on aviation across Kalimantan, with flight cancellations and rescheduling reported at several airports due to reduced visibility. The Director General for Air Transport stressed that flight safety remains the top priority, while affected passengers are entitled to refunds or free rescheduling. Authorities continue to coordinate with stakeholders as haze from forest fires disrupts air travel in the region.

Indonesia and China prepare working group to discuss AI development

Indonesia and China are establishing a working-level group to advance cooperation in communications and digital technology, including technology transfer and artificial intelligence development. The initiative follows the first Comprehensive Strategic Dialogue hosted by Indonesia, with further sectoral discussions planned for early 2027 in China. Indonesia also reaffirmed its participation in global AI governance through the UN-affiliated World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization.

ICW: Unsoed Rector Sting Operation Exposes Weak Governance in Higher Education

Indonesia Corruption Watch (ICW) has said the KPK's sting operation against the rector of Universitas Jenderal Soedirman over alleged bribery in medical faculty admissions is evidence of systemic governance failures in higher education. The watchdog recorded at least 60 corruption cases in the sector between 2006 and 2025, causing state losses of Rp446.892 billion. ICW is urging systematic governance reform rather than merely prosecuting individual offenders.

Workers Strike! Hyundai Production Threatened and Sales Losses of Rp30 Trillion

Hyundai Motor Co. is facing production losses of around 62,000 vehicles due to ongoing strike action by its labour union amid stalled wage negotiations. The strikes, including the first full-day walkout in a decade, are estimated to have cost the company 2.6 trillion won (approximately US$1.85 billion) in lost sales. The industrial action adds to mounting pressure on Hyundai, which is already grappling with declining global sales and intensifying competition from Chinese manufacturers.

Video: With Tax Incentives, Is Gold ETF Investment Becoming More Attractive?

The CEO of PT Korea Investment Management Indonesia highlights gold exchange traded funds as an alternative gold-based investment instrument. Government tax incentives are expected to boost the penetration and competitiveness of gold ETFs, alongside efforts to improve liquidity and public literacy. The firm projects Indonesia's stock market could grow 8-10% by the end of 2026, with bonds at 5-6% and gold ETFs remaining an attractive option for investors.

Not Always Dhikr or Prayer, These Deeds Also Bring Peace of Mind

An Islamic perspective on achieving inner peace and a tranquil heart through good deeds and concern for others, rather than material wealth or status. The article emphasises that helping others and purifying the heart from hatred and envy are key to attaining spiritual contentment.

Simpeda Savings Reach Rp75 Trillion, Asbanda Reveals New Challenges for Regional Development Banks

The Association of Regional Development Banks (Asbanda) reported that Simpeda savings balances across Indonesia have reached Rp75 trillion, reflecting strong public trust in regional development banks. Asbanda is urging its 27 member banks to strengthen digital services to keep pace with changing customer behaviour and transaction needs. The association also announced the next national prize draw will be hosted by Bank Kalsel in South Kalimantan in April 2027.

Andre Rosiade Proposes Bukittinggi Bypass Route as Solution to Toll Road and Padang Luar Flyover Dispute

Gerindra politician Andre Rosiade has proposed reviving the long-planned Bukittinggi bypass route as a way to resolve the controversy surrounding toll road construction in West Sumatra. The scheme would use toll road land acquisition funds to build approximately six kilometres of the bypass, which would also serve as a toll exit. A meeting is scheduled for 8 September 2026 to discuss the plan with relevant agencies and local governments.

Maulid Nabi 2026 Holiday: 14,000 Passengers Crowd Tegal Station

PT Kereta Api Indonesia's Operational Region 4 Semarang recorded 14,191 passengers using Tegal Station during the extended Maulid Nabi holiday period from 21 to 25 August 2026. The figure includes 6,856 departures and 7,335 arrivals, with numbers expected to rise as the holiday continues. KAI has committed to maintaining safe, comfortable and smooth services amid the surge in passenger volume.

Maybank commits to combining running event with sustainability agenda

Maybank Indonesia has reaffirmed its commitment to integrating its Maybank Marathon with sustainability initiatives through programmes involving communities, MSMEs, business partners and local groups. The commitment was showcased at the Maybank Marathon Sustainability Day 2026 in Bali, which included village transformation, youth empowerment and charity activities. The bank says the approach supports its Humanising Financial Services mission and inclusive growth strategy.

Netanyahu brands Erdogan an anti-Semitic dictator

Israel's prime minister has sharply escalated rhetoric against Turkey, accusing President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of anti-Semitism and of seeking to destabilise the region. The statement follows Turkish moves to seek an international arrest warrant for Benjamin Netanyahu over the Gaza aid flotilla interception. Tensions have also risen over alleged Israeli strikes on a disused Syrian air base near the Turkish border.

PTPN IV PalmCo Plants 1.5 Million Trees, Minister Jumhur: Should Be an Example for Other Companies

State-owned plantation company PTPN IV PalmCo has launched a programme to plant 1.5 million trees across its operational areas in Sumatra, Java, Kalimantan and Sulawesi. The initiative supports the government's target of planting 2 billion trees and focuses on high conservation value areas, including river buffer zones. Environment Minister Mohammad Jumhur Hidayat praised the move and urged private plantation companies to follow the state-owned enterprise's example.

Education Ministry grants BOP-BOS fund flexibility in response to forest fires

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has allowed schools in Kalimantan affected by forest and land fires to use BOP and BOS operational funds for emergency smoke-related needs. Minister Abdul Mu'ti emphasised that pupil safety, continuity of learning, and planned post-disaster recovery remain the three guiding principles. The ministry will also provide learning modules, smoke-safe classrooms, and psychosocial services while monitoring air quality indices until the end of September.

Latest NTT Earthquake Data: 30 Dead in East Manggarai

The East Manggarai Regency government has released updated figures on the impact of the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. As of Saturday afternoon, 30 people have been confirmed dead, 643 injured, and over 31,000 displaced. The disaster has also caused extensive damage to buildings, schools, health facilities, and infrastructure, hampering aid distribution.

Viral Video Shows Visitor Opening Car Window in Tiger Area at Taman Safari Bogor

A video showing a visitor opening a car window in the tiger enclosure at Taman Safari Bogor has gone viral on social media. Taman Safari Indonesia has reiterated that visitor safety is a priority and that keeping windows closed is a mandatory standard operating procedure. The park says it will strengthen safety enforcement and urges the public to report any dangerous behaviour to staff.

Prabowo calls for accurate mapping of forest and land fire conditions in West Kalimantan

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed relevant officials to present a factual assessment of forest and land fires in West Kalimantan to guide response measures based on current field conditions. During a coordination meeting in Kubu Raya, the National Disaster Management Agency reported 198 high-confidence hotspots, concentrated mainly in Ketapang, Kubu Raya and Kayong Utara regencies. Weather modification operations are scheduled to resume between 23 and 27 August after being halted due to insufficient cloud cover.

Pelalawan Education Office Requires Students to Wear Masks Amid Haze from Forest Fires

The Pelalawan Regency Education Office in Riau has restricted outdoor activities and mandated mask-wearing for all students due to deteriorating air quality from forest and land fires. The policy aims to mitigate health risks as the region experiences unhealthy air conditions, though schools remain open for now.

South Kalimantan BPBD: Second weather modification operation awaits potential clouds

South Kalimantan's disaster mitigation agency has confirmed that all equipment for a second round of weather modification operations is ready, pending confirmation of suitable cloud formations from the meteorology agency. The operation aims to support efforts to tackle forest and land fires in the province. BMKG reports no significant rain is expected in the coming week, though localised showers may occur in northern areas such as Tabalong Regency.

Zika Virus Alert in Bali: US CDC Issues Level 2 Travel Advisory

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a Level 2 travel alert for Bali due to the risk of Zika virus transmission. The advisory urges enhanced precautions, particularly for pregnant women and couples planning pregnancy. Indonesian health authorities are still validating local case data while recommending standard mosquito prevention measures.

Indonesia prioritizes ground operations to fight wildfires

The Indonesian government is intensifying ground-based firefighting efforts across six wildfire-prone provinces as the dry season heightens risks, with peak danger expected between August and September 2026. Authorities have deployed 38 aircraft for patrols and water-bombing, while weather modification remains unfeasible until late August due to limited rain clouds. The government also plans to revoke regional regulations that permit land-clearing by burning, as haze has already crossed into Malaysia.

Police distribute logistical aid to residents affected by NTT earthquake

The Indonesian National Police have delivered logistical assistance to communities affected by the 7.7-magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. A CN-295 aircraft landed at Komodo Airport in Labuan Bajo carrying food supplies and cooking equipment for field kitchens. Police officials stated that distribution will be prioritised based on field data and needs, with continued support planned for post-earthquake recovery.

Disaggregated refugee data needed to ensure aid is on target

Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Arifah Fauzi has stressed the importance of disaggregated data on displaced people to ensure aid and protection are properly targeted. Women and children account for 68.6 percent of the 70 fatalities recorded following the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The ministry is coordinating with provincial and district authorities to ensure the specific needs of women, children and vulnerable groups are met in the emergency response.

Environment Minister and Prof Bambang Hero Inspect Kampar Forest Fires, Riau Police Chief Accompanies

Environment Minister Jumhur Hidayat and forest fire expert Prof Bambang Hero Saharjo inspected land and forest fire sites in Kampar Regency, Riau, accompanied by Riau Police Chief Irjen Pol Herry Haryawan. The visit aimed to assess fire characteristics, ecological impacts, and enforcement measures. The minister stressed a comprehensive approach from prevention to environmental restoration, while the police showcased their Green Policing Dashboard for data-driven monitoring.

10 Wooden and Bamboo Bars on Perancak Beach in Badung Destroyed by Fire

A major fire destroyed ten wooden and bamboo bars along Perancak Beach in Badung, Bali, in the early hours of Saturday morning. The blaze is suspected to have been caused by an electrical short circuit at one of the establishments. Police are investigating the incident and assessing the total financial losses.

Indonesia Has a Treasure Under the Pillow, Could Rival China!

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has revealed that around 1,800 tonnes of gold, worth approximately US$252 billion, remains outside Indonesia's formal financial system. He urged Bank Syariah Indonesia and Pegadaian to build public trust so that more of this privately held gold can be brought into regulated financial instruments. If integrated, Indonesia's recorded gold stock would rank among the largest in the world, just behind the United States and China.

Indonesia and Several OIC Countries Reject Israel's E1 Settlement Project

Indonesia and seven other OIC member states have jointly condemned Israel's continued illegal settlement expansion in occupied Palestinian territory, specifically rejecting the E1 settlement project east of East Jerusalem. The foreign ministers warned the project threatens the viability of a two-state solution and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on 1967 borders. They called for accountability measures, including international sanctions against entities and individuals involved in illegal settlement activities.

KPK Investigates Procurement of Goods and Services Case in Bogor Regency

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating alleged corruption in the procurement of goods and services in Bogor Regency, West Java, in addition to a case involving illegal levies by state officials. The anti-graft body has issued a general investigation warrant but has not yet named any suspects. Around Rp1.5 billion in cash was reportedly secured during an operation in the regency.

BNPB: 777 tonnes of aid delivered to NTT via air routes

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has distributed approximately 777 tonnes of humanitarian aid to communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) between 15 and 21 August. The aid, delivered via military and commercial cargo aircraft, includes emergency supplies and thousands of temporary shelter units. Additional flights are planned to strengthen distribution to Labuan Bajo and Maumere.

Remembering Ahmad Zaki Ali: Founder of Punk Muslim and Gerak Bareng, Inspirer of Young Volunteers

Ahmad Zaki Ali, founder of the humanitarian community Gerak Bareng, has died from exhaustion during earthquake relief efforts in East Nusa Tenggara. Zaki was known for pioneering crowdfunding-based humanitarian work in Indonesia, building homes for disaster victims and providing ongoing support for underprivileged patients. His death has been mourned by fellow activists across the country.

BNI Provides KRL and Free Shuttle Access to BNI wondrX 2026 at ICE BSD

PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk is offering multiple transport options for visitors to its BNI wondrX 2026 event at ICE BSD, Tangerang, from 21โ€“23 August 2026. The bank has arranged free shuttle buses from Menara BNI and integrated access via KRL Commuter Line, Transjakarta, and private vehicles. The event is free to the public and features banking services, lifestyle, property, automotive, culinary, and entertainment activities.

Forest fire in Way Kambas National Park still being extinguished

A forest fire has been burning in Way Kambas National Park in East Lampung since Friday afternoon, with joint teams still working to extinguish it. Access difficulties are hampering firefighting efforts, and officials are still assessing the extent of the damage. The park previously suffered a major fire in January 2026 that burned over 2,600 hectares.

Far from the Sea, Inmates at Sukamiskin Prison Build Speedboats

Sukamiskin Prison in Bandung has launched a vocational programme teaching inmates to build speedboats under the Sukaboat brand, despite being located far from any coastline. The initiative, driven by former Garuda Indonesia CEO Emirsyah Satar, has already produced multiple vessels and provides inmates with skills and weekly premiums. Prison authorities plan to expand the programme through a cooperative and offer former inmates continued employment.

Environment Minister: Haze from Forest Fires in Kampar, Riau, Originates from Jambi

Indonesia's Environment Minister Jumhur Hidayat has stated that haze affecting Kampar Regency in Riau is being carried by winds from neighbouring Jambi province. Satellite imagery and wind pattern analysis indicate smoke masses moving from the south towards Riau, with 98 hotspots detected in Jambi. Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation and have advised residents to take precautions.

Bogor Regency Government Proposes Electric Bus Routes from Pakansari to Puncak and Cibinong to Depok

The Bogor Regency administration is planning to expand its electric bus service to Puncak and Depok to support the local tourism sector. New routes under consideration include Cibinong-Kebun Raya Bogor, Cibinong-Stadion Pakansari-Margo City Depok, and Pakansari-Puncak to the Cianjur border. The regency government is also exploring private partnership schemes to minimise the burden on the regional budget.

Video: Digital Banks Drive Growth Through Strategic Collaboration

At CNBC Indonesia's Digital Banking Forum 2026, executives from Allo Bank and Bank Aladin Syariah highlighted the importance of partnerships with fintechs, digital platforms, and retail ecosystems to expand customer reach and improve efficiency. The forum brought together regulators, industry players, and brands to discuss the future of Indonesia's digital banking ecosystem.

200 Pelajar TK-SD Ikuti Lomba Mewarnai Logo OSS Yang Digelar DPM-PTSP Kabupaten Jayapura

The DPM-PTSP of Jayapura Regency held a colouring competition for 200 kindergarten and elementary students to introduce the OSS licensing logo as part of public service education. The event included collaboration with Bank Papua, Telkomsel, and other partners to provide student savings accounts and child identity cards, while also promoting character development towards Indonesia Emas 2045. It reflects a local government effort to combine public service outreach with early childhood creative development.

Pegadaian Gold Prices Saturday 22 August 2026: Antam, UBS, and Galeri24

Gold bullion prices at state-owned pawnbroker PT Pegadaian varied across brands on Saturday, 22 August 2026. Antam was priced highest at Rp2,782,000 per gram, followed by UBS at Rp2,774,000 and Galeri24 at Rp2,710,000. Pegadaian offers a range of weights from 0.5 grams to 1 kilogram, with prices subject to change based on global market movements.

House Member Urges Forestry Ministry to Investigate Suspected Forest Fires for Land Clearing

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called on the Ministry of Forestry to investigate suspected deliberate forest and land fires in Kalimantan. The lawmaker argues that the recurring nature of the fires suggests intentional burning to clear land, and has urged strict sanctions including permit revocation and imprisonment for those found responsible.

Home Affairs Ministry instructs Central Sulawesi regional governments to include TB handling in APBD

The Ministry of Home Affairs has directed all regional governments in Central Sulawesi to incorporate tuberculosis control programmes into their regional planning and budget documents. Deputy Minister Akhmad Wiyagus stressed that health is a mandatory government service and that TB handling must follow minimum service standards, including tracing close contacts. Palu City recorded the highest number of TB cases in the province with 1,075, followed by Parigi Moutong and Banggai regencies.

How a Child Caught the 'Torch Man' Suspected of Burning Land in Central Kalimantan

Police in Palangka Raya have arrested two men suspected of starting forest and land fires after a video recorded by children went viral. The footage shows the children encountering the men, one wearing a headlamp and carrying a machete, before filming the blaze. Authorities are still investigating the suspects' motives.

KPK Reveals Independent Admission Route as Corruption Opportunity

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named the Rector of Jenderal Soedirman University and five others as suspects in an alleged extortion scheme involving independent admission slots. Investigators say the independent selection route has become a breeding ground for corruption, with parents allegedly charged up to Rp650 million per medical faculty place. The KPK plans to strengthen preventive measures in coordination with universities, which hold authority over independent admissions.

Health Ministry prepares 16 X-ray units to strengthen TB detection in Central Sulawesi

Indonesia's Health Ministry is supplying 16 portable X-ray units to Central Sulawesi to accelerate tuberculosis case detection and elimination efforts. The lightweight, rechargeable devices are expected to arrive by September 2026 and will enable active screening in hard-to-reach areas. Central Sulawesi recorded around 10,066 TB cases in 2025 with a treatment rate of approximately 98 percent.

Beyond Basic Necessities, Brantas Abipraya Restores Water Access for NTT Earthquake Victims

State-owned construction firm PT Brantas Abipraya has distributed emergency aid to communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, including food packages, clothing, and water tanks to restore clean water access. The company emphasised that post-disaster needs extend beyond staple goods to supporting recovery efforts. The assistance forms part of its 'Abipraya Peduli' corporate social responsibility programme.

From Aceh to NTT, Safrizal ZA Oversees Acceleration of Earthquake Response

Safrizal ZA, Director General of Regional Administration at the Ministry of Home Affairs, travelled from Aceh to NTT to oversee the government's response to the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Flores. He emphasised that the speed of aid distribution depends on the tiered damage assessment process carried out by local governments. Safrizal also praised the solid management of the emergency command post in Sikka Regency and urged continued coordination given the risk of aftershocks.

Viral: District Head in NTT Loses Temper at BNPB Official over Aid Discrepancy

A district head in East Manggarai, NTT, confronted a BNPB official over earthquake relief supplies that he said did not match the amount reported. The official claimed large volumes of aid had been sent, but the subdistrict post received far less, leaving the district head under pressure to distribute fairly to over 21,000 affected residents across 11 villages.

KPK also investigates alleged corruption in procurement at Bogor Regency Government

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed it is investigating alleged corruption in the procurement of goods and services within the Bogor Regency Government, in addition to suspected illegal fee deductions at the regional revenue agency. No suspects have yet been named as the investigation is still proceeding under a general investigation warrant. The KPK has urged the public not to speculate and promised transparent updates in due course.

Education ministry ready to update emergency learning protocol circular amid forest fires

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is preparing to update its ministerial circular on emergency learning protocols as forest and land fires in Kalimantan affect hundreds of thousands of pupils. More than 3,500 schools have already shifted to distance learning, covering over 571,000 pupils across several regencies and cities. Minister Abdul Mu'ti stressed the ministry's commitment to ensuring affected pupils do not lose their right to education.

Worsening Haze from South Kalimantan Forest Fires Forces Banjarbaru to Shift to Online Learning

The city of Banjarbaru in South Kalimantan has mandated online learning for all students for one week starting 24 August 2026 due to deteriorating air quality from forest and land fires. The decision follows a sharp rise in respiratory infections, with 27,738 cases recorded across the province in July and August. Teachers are still required to report to schools, though with adjusted hours to limit smoke exposure.

Police Line Installed at Jakarta Bapenda Building After Second Fire in a Month

The Jakarta Regional Revenue Agency (Bapenda) building has been cordoned off with police line following a second fire in under a month. Governor Pramono Anung has assured residents that tax data remains secure due to digital backups and that public services continue through remote working arrangements. The cause of the fires remains under police investigation.