Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 22 August 2026

Showing 601-650 of 939 articles

From Local Weaving, Agrominafiber Penetrates the Global Market

Agrominafiber, an Indonesian SME producing woven furniture and home decor, has successfully entered the United States market with its first export shipment in 2025. The company's growth was supported by Pertamina's SME development ecosystem, including training, business matching, and national exhibitions. This success highlights the importance of branding, consumer trust, and market access in elevating local products to international standards.

Manggarai Brawl Erupts Again, Pramono Unveils Long-Term Handling Strategy

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has called for a long-term approach to tackling recurring street brawls in the capital, rather than merely reactive measures. The provincial government is preparing sports facilities across several areas to channel youth energy into positive activities. The remarks follow a brawl near Manggarai Station that disrupted KRL commuter services on Friday.

Bareskrim Hunts Yuwanky, Owner of Planet Batam Nightlife Venues, and Traces Rp7 Billion in Assets

Indonesia's National Police Criminal Investigation Directorate (Bareskrim) is pursuing Yuwanky, the owner of the Planet 1, 2, and 3 nightlife venues in Batam, who has been placed on the wanted list over alleged links to a major narcotics network. Investigators are also tracing around 25 assets worth an estimated Rp7 billion believed to be proceeds from drug trafficking. The case has expanded to include money laundering charges as police continue to dismantle the network operating across the Riau Islands.

Way Kambas National Park on Fire Since Friday Afternoon

A forest fire has been burning in Way Kambas National Park in East Lampung, Lampung, since Friday afternoon, with joint teams still working to extinguish the blaze. The park previously suffered a major fire in January 2026 that burned over 2,600 hectares, and this year's dry season is predicted to see an even larger affected area.

UB Rector: Postgraduate students in Indonesia only reach 0.5 percent

The Rector of Universitas Brawijaya, Prof Widodo, has highlighted that less than 0.5 percent of Indonesia's population are enrolled in postgraduate education. He emphasised the role of postgraduate students as an academic elite expected to drive innovation and solve societal problems. UB is strengthening scholarship schemes and research funding to support these students and contribute to the nation's human resource development.

Public Works Ministry Deploys Dozens of Pumps to Tackle Forest and Land Fires in West Kalimantan

The Ministry of Public Works has mobilised dozens of pumps and other equipment to address drought and forest and land fires across West Kalimantan. The deployment includes firefighting pumps, water tankers, excavators, and clean water distribution vehicles to support affected communities. The ministry is coordinating with local disaster agencies as the prolonged dry season driven by El Niño heightens fire risks, particularly in peatland areas.

Batang Regency Government Optimises Flagship Products for 2026 Desa BRILiaN Programme

The Batang Regency administration has pledged support for sustaining flagship village products under the 2026 Desa BRILiaN programme, aiming to strengthen village governance and village-owned enterprises. The initiative focuses on capacity building, institutional strengthening, and market access expansion. Local commodities such as the Mangunharjo yam bean are being developed through branding, legal certification, and digital promotion to boost rural economic value.

Prabowo arrives in West Kalimantan, leads forest fire handling meeting

President Prabowo Subianto has arrived in West Kalimantan to directly oversee the handling of forest and land fires. He chaired a coordination meeting at Supadio Air Base in Kubu Raya Regency, where he requested updates and a presentation from the National Disaster Management Agency. The visit is part of the government's effort to obtain a first-hand picture of the fire situation in the province.

Odd-Even Policy in Jakarta Suspended for Prophet Muhammad's Birthday Holiday on 25 August

The Jakarta Transportation Agency has announced that the odd-even traffic restriction will be lifted on 25 August 2026, which has been designated a national holiday for the Prophet Muhammad's birthday. The suspension is in accordance with a joint ministerial decree on national holidays and a Jakarta gubernatorial regulation. The agency also noted that the holiday falls on a Tuesday, with no collective leave day attached.

Iranian Foreign Minister says US economic operation against Tehran will surely fail

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has dismissed the latest US economic operation against Iran as doomed to fail, citing the failure of previous sanctions and pressure campaigns. The remarks follow President Donald Trump's announcement of what he called the most crippling economic operation ever against a country aiding Iran. The escalation comes amid uncertainty over the fate of US-Iran negotiations following a memorandum of understanding signed in June.

The Moon Is Moving Away from Earth, and Humanity Will Feel the Impact

The Moon is gradually receding from Earth at a rate of about 3.8 centimetres per year, a phenomenon confirmed by laser ranging experiments since the Apollo missions. Scientists warn that this slow drift will eventually make total solar eclipses impossible to observe from Earth. NASA estimates that in roughly 600 million years, Earth will witness its final total solar eclipse.

What is the fate of Unsoed students who 'paid' money to the rector? Here is what the KPK says

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed that students at Universitas Jenderal Soedirman who gained admission through the independent selection route after allegedly paying the rector will be allowed to continue their studies normally. The KPK stressed that its investigation focuses solely on the criminal conduct of university officials and does not affect the academic status of the students. Six individuals, including the rector and vice rector, have been named suspects in an extortion case related to new student admissions.

Petrokimia Gresik and Pupuk Indonesia Distribute Basic Necessities to Earthquake-Affected Residents in NTT

State-owned fertiliser producer Petrokimia Gresik, together with its holding company Pupuk Indonesia, has delivered Rp75 million worth of basic supplies to communities affected by the 7.7-magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The aid, distributed through Relawan Bakti BUMN volunteers from 16–19 August 2026, includes rice, sugar, cooking oil and blankets. The companies also repurposed an existing community empowerment programme in Ruteng to focus on emergency response following the disaster.

Iranian President: Better to end war while Iran is in a strong position

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has said it is preferable to end the war now while Iran holds a strong and dignified position. He described the June memorandum of understanding with the United States as honourable and stressed that Iran would respond devastatingly if attacked again. The fate of follow-up negotiations remains unclear amid rising tensions between the two countries.

President Prabowo leads forest and land fire handling meeting in West Kalimantan

President Prabowo Subianto chaired a coordination meeting on forest and land fire (karhutla) handling at Supadio Air Base in Pontianak, West Kalimantan. The meeting reviewed the latest data showing over 38,000 hectares burned in the province from January to August 2026. The government is intensifying ground patrols, aerial monitoring, firefighting and weather modification operations to prevent further spread and reduce the impact on communities.

Netherlands fines Uber over automatic deactivation of driver accounts

The Dutch privacy watchdog has fined Uber €825 million for using automated systems to deactivate driver accounts without adequate information or proper review. The authority found the ride-hailing firm violated EU GDPR rules on decisions made solely through automated processing. Uber has said it will appeal the decision.

Died During Humanitarian Mission in NTT, Body of Ahmad Zaki Ali Evacuated by Helicopter

The body of Ahmad Zaki Ali, a humanitarian volunteer who died from exhaustion while distributing aid following the Flores earthquake, has been evacuated by helicopter from East Manggarai Regency. The operation was carried out swiftly by the Maumere SAR Office and local SAR elements to ensure the body could be returned to Jakarta. Ali was the founder of the volunteer organisation Gerak Bareng.

Pezeshkian Calls for End to Iran-US War, Tehran Claims Strong Position

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has urged an end to the months-long armed conflict with the United States, arguing that Tehran is in a strong and dignified position despite stalled diplomacy. Military leaders, however, have reaffirmed Iran's readiness to respond decisively to any new threats. The US is preparing a new sanctions campaign as tensions continue around the Strait of Hormuz.

1,426 BPJS Ketenagakerjaan Beneficiaries Join PEKA Empowerment Programme

BPJS Ketenagakerjaan has launched a national economic empowerment programme called PEKA to help families of deceased or injured workers become self-sufficient. The initiative, inaugurated by Manpower Minister Yassierli, aims to shift beneficiaries from consuming social security payouts to using them productively for entrepreneurship and new livelihoods. A total of 1,426 beneficiaries are participating in training activities across 45 locations nationwide.

National Gathering 'Jaga Jakarta': Metro Jaya Police Provide Services for Online Motorcycle Taxi Communities

The Metro Jaya Regional Police held a 'Kopdar Kebangsaan Jaga Jakarta' event to strengthen ties with online motorcycle taxi (ojol) communities while celebrating Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The gathering featured traditional competitions and free public services including emissions tests, health checks, blood donation, and free driving licence extensions. Police leadership emphasised the strategic role of ojol drivers in maintaining public order and safety across Jakarta.

NTT Police's Water and Air Unit Sends 7 Tonnes of Clean Water to Earthquake Refugees in Reok

The Nusa Tenggara Timur Police's Water and Air Directorate has distributed 7 tonnes of ready-to-drink clean water to residents affected by an earthquake in Reok District, Manggarai Regency. The aid was delivered using a water treatment vehicle to Salama Village, where many drinking water refill stations remain out of operation following the disaster. Residents expressed gratitude for the rapid response from the police.

US Supreme Court temporarily allows White House ballroom construction

The US Supreme Court has temporarily allowed construction of a new White House ballroom to continue, freezing a lower court ruling that would have halted the project. Chief Justice John Roberts issued the stay without addressing the legality of the privately funded US$400 million project, which the Trump administration says is 65 per cent complete. The move follows a federal appeals court ruling that President Donald Trump had built the ballroom unlawfully without congressional approval.

BNPB Detects 198 Hotspots in West Kalimantan, Most in Ketapang

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has detected 198 high-confidence hotspots across West Kalimantan, with the highest concentration in Ketapang Regency. The findings were presented to President Prabowo Subianto during his visit to Kalimantan to oversee forest and land fire handling. Weather modification operations have been temporarily halted due to a lack of suitable cloud formations.

Developing Local Woven Products, Agrominafiber Now Penetrates Global Markets

Agrominafiber, a woven furniture and craft business founded by Novita Hermawan, has expanded into international markets after receiving support from Pertamina's SME development programmes. The company has leveraged training, exhibitions, and business matching opportunities to strengthen its brand and reach global buyers. Novita shared her experience in a Pertamina webinar, emphasising that product quality alone is insufficient without proper positioning and consumer trust.

Bandung Regency Government to verify data on 1,066 civil servants indicated for online gambling

The Bandung Regency administration is verifying data on 1,066 civil servants suspected of online gambling, as the figures may include individuals who merely reside in the regency but work elsewhere. The verification will be coordinated with the regional personnel agency, and any confirmed violations will be handled under civil service disciplinary regulations. The regency is also mapping potential online gambling activity among its 3.9 million residents to support public education and mitigation efforts.

Oman and Iran Foreign Ministers Discuss Restoring Freedom of Navigation in the Strait of Hormuz

The foreign ministers of Oman and Iran have held talks on restoring freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically vital waterway. Both sides stressed the need for continued dialogue to reach practical understandings that would facilitate smooth shipping flows and support regional security and stability. The discussions follow recent progress between the two countries on a new maritime traffic roadmap for the strait.

Transforming Pesantren: NU, the Ministry of Religious Affairs, and Civilisation

The article argues that the traditional view of Nahdlatul Ulama as a 'big pesantren' is outdated and that pesantren should be recognised as independent centres of Islamic scholarship. It calls for greater state support through the Ministry of Religious Affairs to sustain pesantren as vital educational and cultural institutions.

Gold Price Today 22 August 2026: Antam Products Shine Brighter

The price of gold produced by PT Aneka Tambang Tbk (Antam) rose by Rp 15,000 to Rp 2,740,000 per gram on 22 August 2026. Buyback prices were set at Rp 2,600,000 per gram, with various denominations available up to 1,000 grams. Transactions remain subject to tax under Finance Minister Regulation No. 34/PMK.10/2017.

Microbes Devour the Gut Wall

New research from Princeton University and the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research reveals that when dietary fibre and digestion-resistant plant proteins are scarce, gut microbes can turn to consuming proteins from the body's own tissues, potentially damaging the intestinal lining. The study, published in PNAS, highlights the critical role of fibre and plant proteins in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome and preventing harmful metabolic shifts.

Forestry Ministry reveals illegal logging in Riau's Kerumutan Wildlife Reserve

The Ministry of Forestry has uncovered suspected illegal logging in the Kerumutan Wildlife Reserve in Riau during forest and land fire monitoring, naming six suspects. Approximately 60 cubic metres of processed timber were seized along with chainsaws and other equipment. The ministry stressed that protecting the reserve is vital for the Sumatran tiger habitat and the ecological functions supporting surrounding communities.

All Petrol Stations in Flores Back in Operation After Earthquake

Pertamina Patra Niaga has confirmed that all 56 petrol stations on Flores Island have resumed operations following the earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara on 15 August 2026. Electricity supply at the stations has also returned to normal, reducing reliance on generators. The company deployed 33 tanker trucks and coordinated with the military, police, and local governments to restore fuel distribution and support disaster response efforts.

Prabowo Leads Limited Meeting on Forest and Land Fire Handling: I Came to See the Real Situation

President Prabowo Subianto chaired a limited meeting on forest and land fire (karhutla) management at the Air Task Force Post, Supadio Air Base, West Kalimantan. He emphasised that his visit was to observe the actual conditions on the ground. A BNPB expert reported 198 high-confidence hotspots in the region over the past 24 hours.

Andre Rosiade Allocates Rp 700-800 Million for Sports Facilities at GOR Rawang Pariaman

Deputy Chairman of Commission VI of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Andre Rosiade, has announced plans to allocate Rp 700-800 million in 2027 to further develop sports facilities at GOR Rawang in Pariaman. The funding will support the construction of a 'medan bapaneh', public toilets, and outdoor fitness equipment, following the completion of a running track that has revitalised the previously dormant complex. The initiative aims to transform the venue into a central hub for sports and community activities in Pariaman.

TNI Commander and National Police Chief accompany President in handling West Kalimantan forest and land fires

TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto and National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo have arrived in West Kalimantan to accompany President Prabowo Subianto on a working visit to review forest and land fire handling. West Kalimantan Governor Ria Norsan said their presence strengthens cross-sector coordination in responding to the fire threat. The provincial government has expressed readiness to support the central government, TNI and Polri in ensuring a rapid, integrated and sustainable response.

Sharia Finance Professional Certification Body Prepares Transformation into Limited Company After a Decade

LSP Keuangan Syariah (LSP KS) is preparing to transform its legal entity from a foundation to a limited company (PT) as it marks its tenth anniversary. The move is aimed at strengthening institutional capacity, professionalism, and long-term sustainability amid evolving industry dynamics. The organisation reported significant financial growth, with audited assets reaching Rp 11.78 billion and profit rising 214 percent to Rp 1.7 billion in the 2025 fiscal year.

President heads to Kalimantan to lead forest fire response

President Prabowo has flown to Kalimantan to personally oversee coordinated efforts to tackle forest and land fires across four provinces. He has assigned senior TNI and Polri officials to lead containment operations in each region, emphasising rapid and integrated action. The government has also stressed that law enforcement will be pursued against those violating environmental and land-burning regulations.

Education Ministry Issues Emergency Learning Protocol Amid Forest and Land Fires

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is updating its emergency learning protocol as forest and land fires in Kalimantan force over 3,500 schools to adopt distance learning. Minister Abdul Mu'ti emphasised that pupil safety remains the top priority while ensuring the right to education is upheld. The ministry will activate emergency education posts, distribute health supplies, and allow flexible use of school operational funds.

Transmigration Ministry pushes North Maluku to develop new rice fields, strengthen rice self-sufficiency and jobs

The Transmigration Ministry is urging North Maluku to develop 10,000 hectares of new rice fields, with only around 1,900 hectares realised so far. Deputy Minister Viva Yoga Mauladi said the initiative aims to boost rice production, support regional and national self-sufficiency, and create jobs for local communities. Challenges raised by local governments include irrigation problems, mining waste, and flooding.

MyRepublic Air Celebrates Independence with 5G FWA Internet Promo: Rp 170,845 for 2 Months

MyRepublic Air has launched a special Independence Day promotion offering 100 Mbps 5G Fixed Wireless Access internet for Rp 170,845 for two months, valid until 31 August 2026. The package includes a free Vidio Starter subscription and aims to accelerate digital transformation across Indonesia. The service is currently available in 90 cities across Sumatra, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Bali, and Nusa Tenggara.

Indodax Partners with Bank INA to Ease Members' Access to Digital Banking Services

Indonesian crypto exchange Indodax has partnered with Bank INA to offer co-branded cards and digital savings accounts through the bank's Binadigital platform. The collaboration aims to provide Indodax members with easier access to everyday banking services and rewards, including crypto asset benefits. Both companies see the partnership as a step towards more inclusive digital banking in Indonesia.

Story of NTT Earthquake Victim: Continuing to Serve the Public to Maintain Energy Supply

Valentinus Jantur, a petrol station operator in Ruteng, East Nusa Tenggara, returned to work just one day after a magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck Manggarai, despite his own family still living in a temporary tent. He felt a duty to ensure fuel supplies remained available for the community's recovery efforts. Pertamina has provided support to affected operators, acknowledging their crucial role in maintaining energy services during the disaster.

East Manggarai Regency Clarifies Viral Video of Camat vs BNPB over Aid Distribution

The East Manggarai Regency administration has clarified a viral video showing tension between a subdistrict head and BNPB personnel during disaster aid distribution. Officials attributed the incident to communication and coordination challenges in the field rather than inter-agency conflict. The regency has pledged to strengthen cross-sector coordination to ensure aid reaches affected residents effectively.

Gus Ipul: 556 Branches and Regions Eligible to Participate in the 35th NU Congress

The Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU) has finalised the list of permanent participants for the 35th NU Congress, with 556 branches and regions confirmed as eligible. Secretary General Saifullah Yusuf stated that the number may still increase pending verification of NU leadership in Papua. He called on all members to maintain a peaceful atmosphere and avoid hoaxes ahead of the congress.

Viral 'Flashlight Man' Suspected of Forest and Land Fires in Central Kalimantan Arrested

Police in Palangka Raya, Central Kalimantan, have arrested two men suspected of starting forest and land fires after a viral video showed two boys confronting them near a blaze. The video, recorded on Friday night, captured the suspects denying knowledge of the fire before the boys filmed flames raging along the roadside. Authorities confirmed the arrests following a crime scene investigation and witness interviews.

Buying and selling seats in Unsoed's independent admission pathway under Rector Akhmad Sodiq

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named and detained six suspects, including Unsoed Rector Akhmad Sodiq, over alleged corruption in the university's independent student admission process. The case involves the sale of medical faculty places for Rp650 million each and the use of campus projects to repay debts. The scandal has raised questions about whether independent admission pathways should be abolished to prevent further exploitation.

Ministry of Social Affairs selects Banyuwangi as pilot location for PPSE programme

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs has chosen Banyuwangi Regency in East Java as the pilot site for its Socio-Economic Empowerment and Alleviation Programme (PPSE), following the region's success in piloting the digitalisation of social protection. The programme aims to help beneficiary families become economically self-sufficient and graduate from social assistance. Banyuwangi's Regent has welcomed the initiative and pledged to implement the ministry's technical recommendations.

Iran says new US economic sanctions will certainly fail

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has dismissed the latest US threat of large-scale economic sanctions, arguing that previous attempts at 'crippling' and 'maximum pressure' sanctions have all failed. He was responding to President Donald Trump's announcement of a campaign of economic pressure and isolation against Tehran. Araghchi said the new measures would meet the same fate as past US efforts.

BNPB Urges Residents to Report Forest Fire Hotspots Immediately

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has called on residents in fire-prone areas of Kalimantan and Sumatra to promptly report any hotspots or fire incidents to local authorities. The agency has deployed 39 aircraft across six priority provinces for water bombing, patrols, and weather modification operations. The strong El Niño phenomenon since July 2026 is cited as the main trigger for the heightened forest and land fire risk.

Prabowo Arrives in West Kalimantan, Immediately Leads Limited Meeting on Forest and Land Fire Handling

President Prabowo Subianto has arrived in West Kalimantan to personally oversee the response to forest and land fires. He immediately chaired a limited meeting at the Supadio Air Force Base command post, attended by senior ministers, military and police chiefs, and regional leaders. The President stressed that his visit was to assess the real situation on the ground and requested direct situation reports from local officials.

Trump: Iran not ready for a proper deal

US President Donald Trump has said Iran is not yet ready to make a 'proper deal' with Washington as economic pressure on Tehran intensifies. He dismissed suggestions that escalating economic measures limit US military options, while highlighting Iran's severe economic and military strain. Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains around 90 per cent below pre-war levels, according to UKMTO.