Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 22 August 2026

Showing 751-800 of 939 articles

Antam Gold Price Rises Rp15,000, Now Priced at Rp2,740,000 per Gram

The price of gold produced by PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) strengthened on Saturday, rising Rp15,000 to Rp2,740,000 per gram. The buyback price also increased by the same amount to Rp2,600,000 per gram, maintaining a spread of Rp140,000. Over the last three trading days, Antam's gold price has surged by Rp95,000 per gram.

Two Houses Burn in Bima, Elderly Couple Dies Trapped by Flames

A fire in Langgudu District, Bima Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, destroyed two houses and killed an elderly married couple who were unable to escape. The blaze, which broke out in the early hours of Saturday, caused an estimated Rp 250 million in material losses. Authorities suspect an electrical short circuit as the cause, though an investigation is ongoing.

House member urges Finance Ministry to disburse Rp290 billion emergency budget for forest and land fires

A member of the House of Representatives has called on the Finance Ministry to immediately release Rp290 billion in emergency funds to tackle forest and land fires, citing worsening air quality and impacts on health, education, transport and the economy. The lawmaker also urged ecosystem restoration, stricter patrols and law enforcement against those responsible for the fires.

Dukcapil Mobile Service Ensures NTT Earthquake Victims Do Not Lose Civil Registration Documents

The Directorate General of Population and Civil Registration (Dukcapil) is deploying mobile services to assist victims of the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The initiative aims to ensure that affected residents can retain or replace essential civil registration documents. This effort is part of the government's response to support communities impacted by the disaster.

Bandung Mayor Apologises as BRT Construction Causes Gridlock Until 2027

Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan has apologised to residents for severe traffic congestion caused by the ongoing Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) construction, which is scheduled to continue until 2027. He acknowledged that public complaints have been received since mid-August and that the project is currently viewed negatively by citizens. The mayor has instructed the Transport Agency to address the congestion, including repairs to pavements and median strips.

Malaysia Takes Kalimantan Haze Issue to ASEAN Mechanism

Malaysia has urged ASEAN member states to strengthen prevention and preparedness measures against transboundary haze after air quality in several parts of the country reached unhealthy levels due to forest and land fires in Kalimantan. The call was made as 11 areas in Sarawak and Melaka recorded unhealthy Air Pollutant Index readings, with Serian district recording the highest at 190. Malaysia reaffirmed its commitment to achieving a haze-free ASEAN by 2030 through the effective implementation of the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution.

From Batavia to Baitullah: Remembering the Hajj of the Past at the Onrust Island Exhibition

An exhibition on Onrust Island in the Thousand Islands Regency explores the historical journey of Indonesian pilgrims travelling to Mecca by sea. The temporary exhibition, running from August 2026 to January 2027, highlights Onrust's role as a key departure point and aims to broaden public understanding of the hajj as a cultural and intellectual exchange, not merely a spiritual one.

KP2MI explores expanding migrant worker job market to the US

Indonesia's Ministry for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (KP2MI) is exploring opportunities to expand the job market for Indonesian migrant workers in the United States. Deputy Minister Christina Aryani held an online meeting with the Indonesian Ambassador to the US and all Indonesian consulates general to discuss closer cooperation. The initiative will focus on verifying job orders, understanding US labour regulations, and identifying potential employment sectors while prioritising worker protection.

US Billionaire Amassed Wealth by Holding to the Prophet's Principle

David Steward, founder of World Wide Technology, drew inspiration from the story of Prophet Noah to persevere in building his technology business despite ridicule and racial discrimination. His company now generates around US$20 billion in annual revenue, making him one of the wealthiest Black individuals in the world with a net worth of US$12.4 billion. Steward's journey highlights how conviction in a long-term vision can drive extraordinary business success.

Kalimantan Forest Fires: MP Calls for Immediate Review of Emergency Status

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has urged the government to promptly review the emergency status for forest and land fires in Kalimantan, citing 413 hotspots and nearly 937 hectares burned in East Kalimantan alone. The MP stressed that declining air quality now poses a public health risk, requiring coordinated action on education, healthcare, and fire prevention.

UN humanitarian agency warns settler and Israeli forces' actions endanger Palestinians in West Bank

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has raised alarm over deadly settler violence and the use of live ammunition by Israeli forces in the West Bank. Two Palestinians were killed on Friday in separate incidents, bringing the cumulative death toll since January to at least 22. OCHA stressed that Palestinians must be protected under international law and that lethal force in law enforcement should be a last resort.

Central Papua Health Office Begins Anticipating Rise in Acute Respiratory Infections Due to Forest and Land Fires

The Central Papua Health Office is preparing tens of thousands of masks and intensifying health monitoring to anticipate a potential surge in acute respiratory infection (ISPA) cases caused by widespread forest and land fires and dry weather. Early warning system data shows a slight upward trend in ISPA cases, prompting authorities to take preventive action. Measures include distributing masks, stockpiling medicines, and deploying medical teams to public areas.

BNI wondrX 2026 Presents Travel Zone as a Solution for Travel Needs

PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk is hosting a dedicated Travel Zone at BNI wondrX 2026, offering a comprehensive range of travel services including flight tickets, accommodation, passport processing, and visa applications. The zone features promotional offers such as flight flash sales, cashback, and instalment schemes, alongside partnerships with the Directorate General of Immigration and One Vasco for visa services. The event runs from 21 to 23 August 2026 at ICE BSD City and is open to the public free of charge.

PLN IP strengthens contribution to clean energy power generation

PT PLN Indonesia Power has signed a letter of intent with PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy to purchase electricity from two geothermal projects with a combined capacity of 45 MW. The collaboration, covering the Lahendong and Ulubelu fields, could eventually reach 230 MW of development capacity. The move is part of efforts to optimise Indonesia's geothermal potential and bolster national energy self-sufficiency.

China's Foreign Minister highlights Indonesia's important position in diplomacy

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has emphasised Indonesia's important position in China's diplomacy, particularly with neighbouring countries, following the launch of the first Comprehensive Strategic Dialogue in Jakarta. The two nations agreed to begin drafting the 2027-2031 Action Plan and deepen cooperation across five pillars, including artificial intelligence, energy, minerals, and food security. Both sides also committed to fully implementing the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea and to work towards an early conclusion of a Code of Conduct.

KPK Prosecutors Ask Corruption Court to Reject Yaqut's Legal Challenge

KPK prosecutors have urged the Jakarta Corruption Court to dismiss a legal challenge filed by the defence team of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas in the hajj quota corruption case. The prosecution maintains that the indictment is legally sound and that the court has jurisdiction to proceed. They have requested the trial advance to the evidentiary stage.

Transport Ministry monitors impact of forest fire haze on flight operations

Indonesia's Directorate General of Civil Aviation is closely monitoring smoke from forest and land fires in Kalimantan and its impact on airport operations. Thick haze has already caused flight cancellations at Singkawang Airport, affecting hundreds of passengers. Affected travellers are being offered full refunds or free rescheduling within seven days.

After Eloping, Two Teenagers in South Sulawesi Married Off by Parents

A child marriage involving a 15-year-old boy and a 13-year-old girl has caused concern in Takalar Regency, South Sulawesi. The couple eloped before their families arranged a wedding without involving local authorities. The local religious affairs office has confirmed the marriage took place on 15 August 2026.

M5.1 Earthquake Again Shakes Flores

A magnitude 5.1 earthquake struck off the coast of Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, on Saturday morning, according to BMKG. The shallow quake, caused by Flores Back-Arc Thrust activity, was felt at intensity IV MMI in several areas of Manggarai. It is part of a continuing aftershock sequence following the M7.7 earthquake on 15 August 2026, with over 5,000 aftershocks recorded so far.

Tarakan Environment Agency Says Active Coal Deposits Also Trigger Forest and Land Fires in Kalimantan

The Tarakan Environment Agency has identified naturally occurring active coal deposits as a contributing factor to forest and land fires in the region, alongside human activity. The agency explained that low rainfall and high temperatures can cause the coal to release heat and ignite dry vegetation, particularly in East Tarakan. Officials have advised against using water to extinguish such fires, recommending foam or soil burial methods instead.

Algerian National Deported from Bali After Serving Sentence at Bangli Detention Centre

An Algerian national has been deported from Indonesia after completing a prison sentence at the Bangli State Detention Centre. Immigration authorities escorted the individual from Bali to Algeria via Kuala Lumpur and Doha. The deportation was carried out as part of immigration law enforcement against foreign nationals who violate Indonesian regulations.

Ministry of Transport strengthens low-carbon transport through ITS 2026

Indonesia's Ministry of Transport is using the International Transportation Summit 2026 to advance low-carbon transport development, emphasising collaboration, innovation, and consistent policy. The ministry views transport decarbonisation as integral to national energy sovereignty, efficiency, and sustainable economic growth. The forum brought together international ITS leaders and stakeholders to accelerate a cleaner and smarter mobility ecosystem.

SAR Team Evacuates Body of NTT Earthquake Volunteer Who Died While Delivering Aid

A joint SAR team has evacuated the body of Ahmad Zaki Ali, founder of Relawan Gerak Bareng, who died from exhaustion while distributing aid following the 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. A Basarnas Dauphin helicopter was deployed to retrieve his remains from the remote village of Satar Padut. The body was flown to Komodo Airport and then to a hospital in Labuan Bajo before being repatriated to Jakarta.

Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir Sworn In as 23rd President of Bangladesh

Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has been officially inaugurated as the 23rd President of Bangladesh in a ceremony at Bangabhaban. The former BNP secretary general was elected by parliament under the country's constitution. The inauguration was attended by senior government, military and diplomatic figures.

Police Name One Suspect in East Kotawaringin Forest and Land Fire Case, Two Others Under Investigation

Police in East Kotawaringin, Central Kalimantan, have named one suspect in a suspected land-burning case while two other residents remain under investigation. The case is being processed using scientific investigation methods to ensure a strong legal basis for the suspect designation. The local disaster agency reports that land and forest fire handling in 2026 has been far more severe than in 2023, with over 1,394 hectares burned across 401 incidents as of 20 August.

Pigai: How Can There Be a Human Rights Revolution Without a Legal Basis?

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has urged the acceleration of regulations to strengthen his ministry's authority, stating that he cannot take concrete action against companies suspected of human rights violations without a clear legal basis. He has submitted proposals for laws, presidential regulations, and presidential instructions to relevant institutions. A draft presidential regulation on business and human rights compliance assessment is among the key instruments being prepared.

Worsening Haze Forces Banjarbaru to Shift Schools to Distance Learning

The Banjarbaru municipal government in South Kalimantan has ordered all schools to switch to distance learning for one week due to deteriorating air quality from forest and land fires. The policy, effective from 24 to 28 August 2026, requires students to study from home while teachers must still report to school. Authorities will evaluate the situation before the deadline to determine whether the measure needs to be extended.

Residents in Uproar over Decile Data as Yogyakarta Government Protests to BPS

The Yogyakarta Special Region administration has lodged a protest with the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) after numerous residents complained that their welfare decile classifications had shifted from low to high, making poverty figures appear artificially reduced. The decile system, based on the National Single Socio-Economic Data (DTSEN), is used to determine eligibility for social assistance. BPS has explained that decile positions are based on 41 variables and are updated quarterly, while urging residents to verify their data through official channels.

Andre Rosiade Meets Padang Mayor to Discuss SPAM, Reforestation and Waste

Deputy Chairman of House Commission VI Andre Rosiade met Padang Mayor Fadly Amran to accelerate the Rp400 billion Palukahan drinking water supply system. The project requires an additional 8,000 square metres of land to proceed. The meeting also covered waste management, reforestation and motorised tricycle support for rubbish collection.

BNI wondrX 2026 Presents Complete Travel Solutions in One Zone

State-owned lender Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) is showcasing a dedicated Travel zone at its BNI wondrX 2026 event, offering services ranging from flight tickets and accommodation to passport and visa processing. The initiative aims to streamline travel preparation for holidays, business trips, umrah, and spiritual tourism. The event features flash sales, cashback offers, and instalment schemes, alongside partnerships with the Directorate General of Immigration and visa service provider One Vasco.

Turkey Issues New Arrest Warrant for Netanyahu Over Global Flotilla Interception

Turkey has issued a fresh arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in connection with the interception of the Global Freedom Flotilla, which was attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. The warrant, issued by the Istanbul 11th High Criminal Court, covers charges including crimes against humanity, genocide, torture, and hijacking. Turkish Justice Minister Akin Gürlek said the request has been forwarded to Interpol for a red notice.

Digital Bank CEOs Reveal Business Strategies and Profit Pursuit

At the Digital Banking Forum 2026, executives from Bank Aladin Syariah and Allo Bank outlined their strategies for achieving profitability in Indonesia's competitive digital banking sector. Bank Aladin is leveraging its partnership with Alfamart to serve 3.8 million customers, while Allo Bank is targeting the 'new economy' segment to meet evolving customer needs.

UMY expert: DTSEN decile mapping should not be treated as an absolute label

A development economics expert from Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta has cautioned that welfare decile rankings in the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) should not be viewed as definitive labels of a person's economic condition. Susilo Nur Aji Cokro Darsono emphasised that household circumstances can change rapidly and called for continuous evaluation of the mapping system. He noted that deciles should serve as a screening tool rather than a final judgement.

Plant in Indonesia Mentioned in the Quran, Arabs Flock to Source

The camphor tree (Dryobalanops aromatica), native to Barus in Sumatra, is identified by scholars as the source of the kāfūr mentioned in the Quran. Arab traders travelled to Barus from as early as the 7th century to obtain the prized resin, establishing it as a major port. Their presence also contributed to the early spread of Islam in the Indonesian archipelago.

Iranian President Says It Is Time to End War While in a Position of Strength

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has called for an end to the Middle East war with the United States, arguing that Tehran now holds a stronger and more dignified position than Washington. His remarks follow escalating US threats of unprecedented economic isolation against Iran, including pressure on allies and China to support the measures. The US Treasury Secretary has warned nations to choose sides or face severe consequences.

Antam Gold Price Rises Again, Reaching Rp2.74 Million per Gram, Buyback at Rp2.6 Million

The price of gold bullion produced by PT Aneka Tambang Tbk (Antam) increased by Rp15,000 to Rp2,740,000 per gram on Saturday. The buyback price also rose to Rp2,600,000 per gram. Transactions are subject to income tax, with a 1.5 percent levy on buybacks above Rp10 million and a 0.25 percent tax on purchases.

BI pushes digitalisation of MSME payments to expand financing

Bank Indonesia is encouraging micro, small and medium enterprises to adopt digital payment systems so their transactions become more traceable and measurable, improving their creditworthiness. The central bank cites weak financial record-keeping and information asymmetry as key barriers to MSME financing. Measures include zero merchant discount rates for small QRIS transactions, with MSME credit growth still lagging far behind overall bank lending.

10 Facts About Kalimantan Forest Fires: Smoke Crosses to Malaysia, Volunteer Hospitalised

Forest and land fires across Kalimantan have intensified, with 1,487 hotspots recorded and smoke drifting into Malaysia, where air quality in parts of Sarawak has reached very unhealthy levels. Firefighting efforts are hampered by limited water sources and equipment, while a volunteer required hospital treatment for breathing difficulties. The fires have also killed wildlife, including snakes and a pangolin.

Economy yesterday: marketplace fee discounts to IEU-CEPA ratification

A roundup of key economic news from Friday covers a planned 50 percent marketplace service fee discount for MSMEs selling local products, expected to take effect by late August 2026. Other items include confirmation that online motorcycle taxi drivers will continue receiving holiday bonuses despite their new micro-business status, and the economic impact of forest and land fires in Kalimantan. The government also targets signing the Indonesia-EU Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement by October 2026.

Three Nations Condemn Israel for Releasing Soldier Who Killed Gaza Volunteers

The United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada have jointly condemned the Israeli military's decision not to pursue criminal charges over the April 2024 airstrike that killed seven World Central Kitchen aid workers in Gaza. The three allies described the IDF's administrative sanctions as 'shameful' and insufficient, demanding full accountability for the victims. The statement also highlighted that Gaza remains the deadliest place for aid workers, with at least 186 humanitarian personnel killed in 2025.

Tarakan Environmental Agency Reveals Active Coal Deposits Suspected of Triggering Forest and Land Fires

The Tarakan Environmental Agency has identified active coal deposits beneath the surface as a likely cause of recent forest and land fires in East Tarakan, North Kalimantan. Extreme weather conditions, including low rainfall and high temperatures, are causing the coal to release natural heat, which can ignite dry vegetation without human activity. Officials have advised specific firefighting methods, such as foam application or soil covering, to cut off the air supply to coal-fuelled fires.

Agrominafiber UMKM breaks into US market with Pertamina support

Indonesian SME Agrominafiber has made its first export of woven home decor products to the United States in 2025. The company credits its success to branding, market access expansion, and coaching from Pertamina. Founder Novita Hermawan shared the journey during a Pertamina webinar aimed at helping other SMEs grow.

Parcel Courier Profession Faces Extinction, Signs Growing Clearer in America

Amazon is accelerating the expansion of its Prime Air drone delivery service, targeting up to 500 locations across the United States by the end of 2026. The move could significantly disrupt the conventional courier workforce, though regulatory hurdles, noise complaints, and safety concerns remain key obstacles. The company has already secured FAA approval for most regions and is adjusting flight routes following a recent drone collision incident.

Ministry of Social Affairs Sends Logistics Aid to Fire Victims in Senen

The Ministry of Social Affairs has distributed emergency logistics aid to residents affected by a fire that destroyed 15 homes in Senen, Central Jakarta. A total of 35 families, or 95 people, were impacted, with no casualties reported. The assistance, valued at Rp114 million, includes food, bedding, clothing, and school supplies to support evacuees during the emergency response period.

Colombia earthquake death toll reaches 321

The death toll from the 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck Colombia has risen to 321, with 4,595 injured and 257 still missing, according to the national disaster agency. President Abelardo de la Espriella estimated direct physical losses at around 30 trillion pesos, or approximately 7.5 billion US dollars. The figures remain provisional as surveys continue in the affected regions.

Facts surrounding the death of a British national after being beaten by four foreigners in Bali

British national Paul Innes Dougan died in Bali after allegedly being assaulted by four Australian men at a bar in Kuta. Police have identified the suspects, who have since left Indonesia for Australia, and are planning an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.

BRI Wins Three Prestigious Alpha Southeast Asia 2026 Awards, Reinforcing Leadership in Transaction Banking Services

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk has secured three prestigious awards at the 20th Annual Best Financial Institution Awards 2026 hosted by Alpha Southeast Asia in Jakarta. The awards recognise BRI's strengths in wholesale transaction banking, including its integrated digital platform QLola by BRI. The achievement underscores the bank's competitiveness against leading regional and international financial institutions.

SUMU: The Driving Force of the MSME Economy

Muhammadiyah's Serikat Usaha Muhammadiyah (SUMU) organised a business trip to Yiwu and Hangzhou, China, involving 52 entrepreneurs from across Indonesia. The visit aimed to build networks and learn from Yiwu, the world's largest wholesale market for small and medium-sized commodities. SUMU positions itself as an inclusive platform for fostering resilient and independent Indonesian entrepreneurs.

Government Prioritises Forest and Land Fire Handling in 6 Provinces

The Indonesian government has designated six provinces as priority areas for tackling forest and land fires due to their high risk levels. Cloud seeding operations cannot yet be carried out because of minimal rain cloud formation, leaving ground and air task forces as the main response. Smoke from the fires has crossed into Malaysia, prompting Sarawak to close nearly 600 schools affecting over 197,000 students.

Pos Properti, Pos Indonesia, iGreen+, and PLN Collaborate to Present SPKLU

PT Pos Properti Indonesia is optimising its property assets by supporting the establishment of an iGreen+ public electric vehicle charging station at the Pos Indonesia headquarters in Jakarta. The facility, equipped with six 120 kW ultra-fast chargers, has already served over 200 users per day since its limited opening in mid-July 2026. The collaboration with PLN and PT Niscala Energi Indonesia aims to expand EV infrastructure and support Indonesia's Net Zero Emission target by 2060.