Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 22 August 2026

Showing 101-150 of 939 articles

Bandung Creative Economy Hub Continues to Develop 3D Printer Technology

Bandung's strong creative ecosystem is driving the wider introduction of 3D printing technology to the public in West Java. PT Tek Lab Indonesia has opened a creative hub in Bandung to let people see, try and discuss the technology, aiming to support creativity, education and product development. The company also plans workshops, training and a curriculum for vocational students.

Ministry partners with I4 to strengthen research collaboration with diaspora scientists

Indonesia's Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology is joining forces with the International Association of Indonesian Scientists (I4) to integrate diaspora researchers into the national research and higher education ecosystem. The collaboration introduces structured schemes such as cross-assignment and double affiliation to facilitate direct academic and research involvement. The initiative aims to boost research quality and scientific publications in Indonesia.

Anak Krakatau Volcano Erupts Nine Times, Alert Level III

Mount Anak Krakatau in South Lampung erupted nine times on Saturday, with ash columns reaching up to 400 metres above the crater. The Centre for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation has maintained the volcano at Alert Level III (Siaga) due to fluctuating volcanic activity. Authorities have issued strict safety recommendations, including a 2-kilometre exclusion zone around the crater.

PNM Provides Access to Clean Water for Earthquake Victims in NTT

State-owned enterprise PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) has installed two water tanks at a refugee post in Ruteng, East Nusa Tenggara, to provide clean water for earthquake victims. The initiative, part of the company's corporate social responsibility programme, follows earlier food aid and aims to support sanitation and health during the emergency response period. PNM says it will continue to monitor conditions and adapt further assistance to the needs of displaced residents.

KAI Palembang adds executive train for Prophet Muhammad's Birthday holiday

PT Kereta Api Indonesia's Regional Division III Palembang has added an executive class train to accommodate high travel demand during the long weekend coinciding with the Prophet Muhammad's Birthday commemoration. Ticket sales have already exceeded capacity by 119 percent, with over 22,800 tickets sold for the 21-26 August 2026 period. The company is urging passengers to book early and has assured that safety and security measures remain a priority.

Resident's iPhone Stolen in West Jakarta Supermarket Found in Blitar, Police Trace Device Across Java

A West Jakarta resident reported his iPhone stolen from a supermarket in Mangga Besar on 7 May 2026. Despite the device being switched off and the iCloud account compromised, police traced it to Blitar, East Java, and successfully recovered it. The victim praised the Taman Sari police for their persistence and public service.

Legislator Warns Mastery of Digital Instruments Must Not Lead to Destructive Impact

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has stressed that digital literacy must be paired with strong character education to prevent technology from having a destructive impact on students. The legislator highlighted the need for ethics, mental resilience, and critical awareness alongside technical skills. The government is also pushing for character education to be formally integrated into the national curriculum through revisions to the National Education System Law.

Xiaomi reveals interior of Skynomad N70 Max EREV SUV

Xiaomi has unveiled the interior of its latest extended-range electric SUV, the Skynomad N70 Max, priced at 259,900 yuan (approximately Rp684 million). The vehicle offers spacious rear seating, up to 2,425 litres of storage, and a combined range of 1,461 km. Xiaomi's vehicle deliveries continue to grow, with the company targeting 550,000 units in 2026.

Malang City Government Holds Mentoring for Tobacco Products Industry Production Data Reporting

The Malang city government is assisting tobacco products industry (IHT) operators with reporting production data through the National Industrial Information System (SIINas). The initiative aims to ensure accurate and timely data collection for better policy formulation and industrial development. The programme utilises Tobacco Excise Revenue Sharing Funds (DBHCHT) to strengthen regional industry governance.

Tracing the Bloodiest Conflicts in World History

The article surveys the deadliest wars and political regimes in modern history, highlighting how armed conflict consistently disrupts supply chains, drives up commodity prices, and causes massive civilian casualties. It notes that the greatest loss of life often occurs after combat ends, through famine, disease, and collapsed infrastructure.

BMKG Weather Forecast 23 August 2026: Beware of Thunderstorms in Tanjung Selor

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued a weather forecast for Sunday, 23 August 2026, warning of potential thunderstorms in Tanjung Selor and other parts of Indonesia. Tropical cyclone seed 97W in the Pacific Ocean north of Papua is driving convergence and confluence zones, increasing cloud growth and rainfall across several regions. The public is advised to monitor official BMKG channels for real-time updates.

Police Name 'Flashlight Man' and Landowner as Suspects in Forest and Land Fire

Police in Palangka Raya, Central Kalimantan, have named two suspects in a forest and land fire case: a man known as the 'flashlight man' and the landowner. The suspects face up to nine years in prison for allegedly setting the fire to clear land. The case gained attention after a viral video showed the man confronting teenagers who were attempting to extinguish the blaze.

Online Motorcycle Taxis and the New Path to Digital Economic Justice

President Prabowo Subianto's push to cap platform commission fees at 8 percent for online motorcycle taxi drivers marks a significant shift towards fairer digital economy policies. The move, supported by the House of Representatives, has secured commitments from Gojek and Grab to implement the new revenue split from July 2026. However, the author argues that true justice requires transparency in algorithms and independent dispute resolution mechanisms.

Central Sulawesi Forest Fires 2026: Hotspots Surge 205 Percent and Emergency Status Declared

Forest and land fires in Central Sulawesi have surged dramatically in 2026, with 1,007 hotspots recorded by mid-June—a 205 percent increase on the same period last year—and over 4,147 hectares burned. Tojo Unauna regency has declared a state of emergency, while a coalition of six civil society organisations is urging the government to activate integrated emergency response posts and warning that El Niño conditions could trigger the worst fires in a decade.

Tito Accompanies Prabowo to Palangka Raya to Strengthen Forest Fire Handling

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian accompanied President Prabowo Subianto to Palangka Raya, Central Kalimantan, to review and strengthen forest and land fire management. The meeting at the fire command post addressed the need for additional helicopters and water pumps, with Prabowo taking immediate steps to meet the requirements. Central Kalimantan has recorded nearly 20,000 hotspots and over 1,600 fire incidents this year.

Baznas distributes 1,900 meals to earthquake survivors in East Nusa Tenggara

The National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) has distributed 1,900 ready-to-eat meals to residents affected by the earthquake in East Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. The agency is operating public kitchens and health posts to support evacuees while coordinating with local authorities for further relief efforts. The initiative forms part of the government's broader emergency response to the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck the Flores region.

Central Java Anniversary MSME Exhibition Records Rp 1.165 Billion in Total Transactions

The MSME exhibition held to celebrate Central Java's anniversary recorded total transactions of Rp 1.165 billion, with organisers emphasising the event's role in helping small businesses expand their market reach. Deputy Governor Taj Yasin Maimoen highlighted a jamu producer's plan to sign an MoU with Malaysia as evidence that the exhibition can elevate MSMEs to national and international markets. The provincial government also established a cooperation agreement with the Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) to boost consumer confidence and sales turnover.

KPK Reveals Independent Admission Route for New Students Could Become a Breeding Ground for Corruption

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has warned that the independent admission route for new students at state universities is vulnerable to corruption, citing the financial autonomy granted to universities as public service agencies. The KPK plans to coordinate with its prevention deputy to close loopholes, while a university rector has called for the route to be halted and reformed. The warning follows the naming of six suspects in an alleged extortion case at Jenderal Soedirman University.

Malang City Government Holds Technical Guidance on GMP Implementation to Strengthen Cigarette Industry Governance

The Malang City Government is providing technical guidance on Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to small and medium-scale cigarette factories. The initiative aims to ensure production processes meet standards for quality, hygiene, safety, and orderly procedures. The city targets at least 50 tobacco products industry factories to consistently implement 10 GMP principles to boost competitiveness.

Prasetyo Hadi: Prabowo Adds Helicopters and Personnel to Tackle Kalimantan Forest Fires

President Prabowo Subianto has ordered the deployment of additional helicopters, water pumps, and personnel to combat forest and land fires in Kalimantan amid extreme El Nino weather conditions. State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi said the President made the decision after monitoring affected areas directly. Prabowo also stressed that prevention through public education remains the key to addressing the recurring fires.

BMKG Detects 776 Hotspots in South Kalimantan, Visibility Drops Sharply

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has detected 776 hotspots across South Kalimantan, with the highest concentrations in Banjar, Tapin, and Tanah Laut regencies. Smoke from the fires has spread to Central and East Kalimantan, significantly reducing visibility, particularly in the morning. Authorities have warned that air quality in Banjarbaru has reached hazardous levels, urging residents to wear N95 masks.

Environment Minister Says 335 Companies in Kalimantan-Sumatra Face Sealing

Environment Minister Jumhur Hidayat has warned that 335 concession holders in Kalimantan and Sumatra risk having their operations sealed due to land fires. He stressed that companies using slash-and-burn methods face fines, restoration costs, and potential criminal charges if intent is proven. The minister also praised Riau's improved fire mitigation efforts, noting a significant decline in fires compared to previous years.

Musim Mas, Indonesia-Based Palm Oil Company, Wins Mahayuga Award 2026 Again

PT Musim Mas, an integrated palm oil company based in Indonesia, has received the Mahayuga Award 2026 from Garuda TV in the Green Industry Pioneer category. The award was presented by Indonesia's Minister of Environment, Mohammad Jumhur Hidayat, in recognition of the company's contributions to sustainability and long-term competitiveness. Musim Mas highlighted its ongoing commitment to emissions reduction, smallholder empowerment, and responsible palm oil production.

Bandung Mayor Reveals 14 Trees Stripped of Bark, Some Dead

Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan has reported that 14 trees across several roads in the city were stripped of their bark, resulting in two deaths. The local government is prioritising the recovery of the remaining 12 trees using specialised treatments and wrapping to encourage bark regrowth. Authorities are still investigating the motives behind the vandalism, including the possibility of a commercial angle.

4.3 million cars recalled in China over electronic door handle risk

Chinese authorities have ordered the recall of nearly 4.3 million electric vehicles from 11 manufacturers due to safety concerns over hidden electronic door handles that may impede escape during emergencies. Tesla accounts for the largest share with 2.98 million vehicles affected, while regulators in both China and the United States are moving to tighten standards on electronic door systems.

The Collapse of Our Educational Integrity

The arrest of the Rector of Jenderal Soedirman University by the KPK on corruption charges in student admissions has exposed deep-rooted commercialisation in Indonesian higher education. The article argues that such corruption devalues educational institutions and marginalises poor students while enriching those who can pay. It calls for a total evaluation of the system, drawing comparisons with the integrity standards of Scandinavian countries.

BRIN develops transparent wood innovation from bio-based materials

Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is developing transparent wood as an environmentally friendly alternative to silica-based glass. The innovation utilises renewable timber resources and reduces dependence on quartz sand mining. The material has achieved light transmittance of over 50 percent and is designed with sustainability principles in mind.

Students in Pelalawan Required to Wear Masks Due to Forest Fire Haze

The Pelalawan Regency Education Office has restricted outdoor school activities and made mask-wearing compulsory for students as haze from forest and land fires pushes air quality into the unhealthy category. The policy aims to reduce exposure to poor air quality and will be adjusted according to the situation. Authorities are coordinating with environmental agencies to monitor conditions, with no school closures announced so far.

Prabowo vows action against firms linked to land, forest fires

President Prabowo Subianto has pledged legal action against companies proven to have contributed to land and forest fires in Kalimantan. Four corporations in West Kalimantan are currently under investigation, with possible sanctions including revocation of operating permits. The government is also deploying additional military personnel and helicopters to contain the fires.

Iran Seeks to End War While in a Position of Strength

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has signalled a willingness to end the conflict with the United States, claiming Tehran now holds a stronger and more dignified position. The remarks come as US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent pushes allies and China to support a coordinated economic isolation of Iran. Washington has threatened severe consequences for any nation offering economic relief to Tehran.

Malang City Government Holds Training on Modern Beverage Making for Tobacco Industry Employees

The Malang City Government has provided training in modern beverage making to employees of the tobacco products industry to strengthen their alternative skills. The programme aims to broaden business opportunities and promote economic independence among participants. The initiative is part of local government efforts to empower tobacco industry workers with long-term capabilities.

Baznas distributes 1,000 Qurans to Baduy community in Banten

The National Alms Agency (Baznas) has distributed 1,000 copies of the Quran to residents of Kampung Baduy in Lebak Regency, Banten, with support from International Networking for Humanitarian and Gramedia. The initiative is part of a broader programme funded by donations from Gramedia customers, totalling 4,933 Qurans worth over Rp500 million. Baznas emphasised its commitment to transparent and accountable distribution, targeting recipients across four provinces.

Chronology of Discovery: Children Raped by Biological Father

A mother in Semarang is seeking justice for her two young daughters, who were allegedly raped by their biological father. The case was reported to Central Java Police in October 2024, but the mother claims progress has stalled. Police say the investigation is ongoing and currently at the forensic laboratory examination stage.

Berau Police Name Suspect in East Kalimantan Forest Fire Case, Facing Rp10 Billion Fine

Police in Berau Regency, East Kalimantan, have named a man with the initials BS as a suspect in a forest and land fire case in Tanjung Batu, Pulau Derawan District. The suspect allegedly set fires at five locations on the orders of a landowner to clear land for an oil palm plantation, with the blaze spreading to a nearby forest concession. He faces up to 12 years in prison and a maximum fine of Rp10 billion under environmental protection and forestry laws.

Will Parents of Students Be Pursued by KPK Following Unsoed Rector Case?

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has clarified that parents of students involved in the alleged extortion case surrounding new student admissions at Jenderal Soedirman University will be treated as victims, not suspects. The anti-graft body is investigating alleged abuse of power and gratification by the rector and four other suspects under Articles 12e and 12B of the Corruption Eradication Law.

World's Largest Electric Aircraft Completes Maiden Flight on Just Rp88,000 of Electricity

Heart Aerospace's X1, the world's largest electric aircraft, has completed its first flight powered entirely by batteries at a cost of less than US$5. The Swedish start-up aims to use data from the experimental plane to develop the ES-30, a commercial model expected to carry dozens of passengers by 2031. The company argues that electrification could fundamentally reshape airline economics and reduce carbon emissions from the aviation sector.

Police Raid Counterfeit Money Printing Operation, Seize 360,000 Fake Notes Worth Rp36 Billion

The Economic and Banking Sub-Directorate of Polda Metro Jaya's Special Criminal Investigation Directorate has uncovered a counterfeit money printing operation in Taman Tekno Bumi Serpong Damai, Serpong, South Tangerang. During the raid, officers seized 360,000 counterfeit Rp100,000 notes with a nominal value of Rp36 billion. Police are continuing their investigation and developing the case.

Three battalions from Java deployed to help tackle Kalimantan forest fires

The Indonesian government is sending three battalions, approximately 1,200 soldiers, from Java to Kalimantan to reinforce firefighting efforts amid limited personnel on the ground. President Prabowo Subianto has also ordered additional equipment, including water-bombing helicopters and fire engines, following a coordination meeting. The President stressed the importance of public education to prevent activities that could trigger fires during the current dry conditions.

Home Affairs Minister Accompanies Prabowo to Central Kalimantan to Discuss Strengthening Forest and Land Fire Handling

President Prabowo Subianto, accompanied by Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian, visited Palangka Raya to review forest and land fire mitigation efforts in Central Kalimantan. The province has recorded 19,992 hotspots and 1,639 fire incidents affecting over 4,499 hectares between January and August 2026. Prabowo pledged additional water-bombing helicopters and water pumps to bolster firefighting operations.

Pramono assures basic services maintained amid budget efficiency

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has reaffirmed the city administration's commitment to continuing development across health, education, social protection and transport despite budget efficiency measures. He highlighted ongoing programmes such as education assistance schemes and major infrastructure projects, including the completion of the LRT Kelapa Gading-Manggarai route. The governor also said creative financing schemes would be used to fund development without overburdening the regional budget.

Apple cuts 200 employees from Vision Pro and Siri teams

Apple has laid off more than 200 employees, including around 100 from its Vision Pro team, as part of a restructuring to shift focus towards artificial intelligence and new devices. The move also affects the Siri and Intelligent Systems Experience teams. The company said the changes are intended to grow the business and improve user experience, while it faces rising production costs and component shortages.

Dhoho Kediri Airport Prepares Infrastructure for Hajj Embarkation

Dhoho International Airport in Kediri, East Java, is preparing its infrastructure and operations to support its designation as a hajj embarkation point. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has conducted a site visit to assess the airport's readiness, including terminal facilities, airside operations, and passenger services. Airport operators and Saudia Airlines are coordinating to strengthen technical aspects and align with regulatory requirements.

Malang City Government Equips Tobacco Industry Workers with Fish Processing Skills to Boost Economic Independence

The Malang City Government is providing alternative skills training in fish processing for tobacco industry workers, aiming to enhance their productivity and create additional income sources. The programme, funded by tobacco excise revenue sharing, includes mentoring in hygiene, sanitation, and product development. Officials hope the training will foster sustainable economic independence for workers and their families.

Berau forest fire suspect faces 12 years in prison, Rp10 billion fine

A man in Berau, East Kalimantan, has been named a suspect in a forest and land fire case and could face up to 12 years in prison and a Rp10 billion fine. Police say the fire was deliberately set on the orders of a landowner to clear land for an oil palm plantation. The blaze destroyed around 12 hectares and caused an estimated Rp1.2 billion in material losses.

BNPB confirms earthquake aid in East Manggarai distributed in stages

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has clarified that aid for earthquake victims in East Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, is being delivered in stages due to geographical challenges and limited transport. The agency denied reports that the amount of aid handed over by its local representative did not match official records. BNPB also urged all parties to maintain coordination and prioritise the health and safety of field personnel.

Passenger's Thumb Caught in KRL Door, KAI Commuter Issues Explanation

A commuter's thumb became trapped in a KRL train door after he forced his way aboard as the doors were closing at Tanah Abang Station. KAI Commuter confirmed the incident and said staff intervened to halt the train and reopen the doors. The operator has urged passengers to prioritise safety and avoid boarding when trains are full or doors are closing.

Weather modification operation to tackle forest and land fires in East Kalimantan

The Nusantara Capital City Authority (Otorita IKN), in collaboration with the Indonesian Air Force, BMKG, and regional disaster agencies, has launched a weather modification operation in East Kalimantan. The operation involves seeding clouds with sodium chloride to induce rainfall. The measure aims to prevent forest and land fires and mitigate the ongoing drought in the region.

MPR Deputy Speaker Urges Acceleration of Manuscript Digitalisation to Boost Reading Interest

Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Lestari Moerdijat has called for accelerated digitalisation of ancient manuscripts and reading materials to address Indonesia's low literacy levels. She highlighted that only 7,987 of 143,259 Nusantara manuscripts had been digitised by the end of 2024, while the national Community Literacy Development Index remains in the low category at 40.6. Moerdijat emphasised that collaboration between government, businesses, communities, and the public is crucial, including fiscal policies such as tax reductions on books and paper raw materials.

Kodam XXI deploys infantry battalion to help extinguish forest fires in Way Kambas National Park

The Indonesian Army's Kodam XXI/Radin Inten has deployed personnel from Yonif TP 943/DPC to assist in fighting forest and land fires in Way Kambas National Park, Lampung. The operation includes fire engines, water tankers, drones, and coordination with the regional disaster agency for cloud seeding and water bombing. The military commander stressed the need for close collaboration among regional leaders and urged the public to avoid actions that could spark new fires.

Flores Grief Becomes a Call for National Solidarity, Rp1.3 Billion in Aid Distributed

The JHL Merah Putih Kasih Foundation has distributed Rp1.3 billion in humanitarian aid to communities affected by the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, on 15 August 2026. The assistance, comprising staple foods, tarpaulins, clothing, blankets and other basic necessities, was delivered across seven affected districts. The foundation emphasised that recovery requires sustained attention beyond the emergency response period.