Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 22 August 2026

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Governor: President's presence strengthens central support for tackling forest and land fires

Central Kalimantan Governor Agustiar Sabran stated that President Prabowo Subianto's visit to Palangka Raya reinforces central government support for tackling forest and land fires. The central government has provided excavators, boreholes, and other infrastructure, with plans for around 1,000 boreholes initially. Weather modification operations have also been prepared, though implementation faces challenges due to field conditions.

Indonesian govt investigates four firms over West Kalimantan fires

The Indonesian government is investigating four companies over forest fires in West Kalimantan, with officials warning that operating licences could be permanently revoked if violations are proven. President Prabowo Subianto has stressed the need for strict law enforcement against anyone found to have intentionally started fires, following coordination meetings in West and Central Kalimantan.

Airlangga targets European investment through EU-CEPA

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has described the Indonesia-European Union Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement as a potential game changer for the Indonesian economy. He highlighted that the pact would eliminate tariffs on 90 percent of Indonesian tariff lines immediately upon entry into force and unlock new European investment. The government aims to sign the agreement in October.

Prabowo Welcomes Chinese Investment, Indonesia Promises Conducive Business Climate

President Prabowo Subianto has affirmed Indonesia's openness to increased Chinese investment, pledging to maintain a conducive business environment for Chinese companies. During a meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Defence Minister Dong Jun, Prabowo praised China's development progress and expressed hope for strengthened strategic cooperation. Wang Yi described China as a reliable, long-term partner ready to support Indonesia's national development and industrialisation.

Without a Mask, Prabowo Inspects Kalimantan Forest Fires

President Prabowo Subianto visited forest and land fire sites in Kubu Raya, West Kalimantan, on Saturday, walking through smoke-affected areas without wearing a mask. The inspection followed a coordination meeting with ministers and regional leaders on handling the fires. Prabowo stressed the need for rapid, coordinated responses based on actual field conditions.

Ministry of Tourism selects 269 participants for National Internship Programme

Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism has selected 269 university graduates for the second batch of its 2026 National Internship Programme, chosen from 1,499 applicants. The six-month scheme aims to strengthen practical competencies and work experience amid high graduate unemployment, with participants receiving mentoring, a minimum-wage allowance, and an industry-recognised certificate.

Maluku Provincial Government to Develop People's Schools in 14 Locations

The Maluku provincial government is expanding the People's School programme to 14 sites across 11 regencies and cities to widen educational access for children from poor and extremely poor families. Governor Hendrik Lewerissa said the programme, initiated by President Prabowo Subianto, aims to break the intergenerational cycle of poverty through free, quality boarding education. The expansion is intended to address geographical disparities in the archipelagic province.

Polda Metro Jaya raids counterfeit money printing operation in Tangerang

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 BSD, Serpong, South Tangerang. Police seized 360,000 counterfeit Rp100,000 notes with a face value of approximately Rp36 billion. The raid took place on Saturday, 22 August 2026.

Man in Bima Caught Bringing Sambal Laced with Meth While Visiting Wife in Detention Cell

A 50-year-old man was arrested at Bima Kota Police detention centre after officers discovered methamphetamine hidden inside a sachet of chilli sauce he was bringing for his detained wife. The suspect has been handed over to the narcotics unit for further legal processing. Police emphasised that routine inspection of visitors' belongings is a critical security measure to prevent contraband entering the facility.

Fire in Way Kambas National Park Spreads to 673 Hectares, Still Not Extinguished

A forest and land fire in Way Kambas National Park, East Lampung, has burned 673.4 hectares and remains uncontained. Firefighting efforts are hampered by strong winds, high flames, and inaccessible terrain, with crews relying on manual equipment. A total of 29 personnel from forestry police, local police, and the military have been deployed to tackle the blaze.

President Prabowo adds helicopters and personnel to tackle forest and land fires

President Prabowo Subianto has ordered additional helicopters, water pumps, vehicles, and personnel to strengthen the response to forest and land fires in Kalimantan. The move comes amid very dry conditions caused by the El Niño phenomenon, with five Kalimantan provinces under government attention. The President also stressed the importance of prevention through continuous public education at the grassroots level.

How to Check 2026 Social Assistance Decile Using NIK KTP, Understand the Meaning of Deciles 1 to 10

The Ministry of Social Affairs provides a method for citizens to check their socio-economic decile ranking using their NIK from their KTP. Deciles range from 1 to 10, with lower numbers indicating lower welfare levels, and deciles 1 to 4 are typically proposed for programmes like PKH and basic food assistance. The article explains the meaning of deciles and the steps to check one's status through the Cek Bansos portal.

President Prabowo Adds 4 Water Bombing Helicopters to Tackle Central Kalimantan Forest Fires

President Prabowo Subianto has ordered the deployment of four additional water bombing helicopters to combat escalating forest and land fires in Central Kalimantan. The decision responds to a direct request from the provincial disaster agency and includes expanded logistical support for ground crews. The move underscores the government's intensified response to the region's worsening fire crisis.

Bantul has disaster risk index of 96.02, says Coordinating Ministry official

Bantul Regency in Yogyakarta has a disaster risk index of 96.02, placing it in the moderate risk category, according to the Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Cultural Affairs. The official noted that earthquake risk remains high at 12.89 and urged continued efforts to build community resilience. A magnitude 3.5 earthquake on 20 August 2026 served as a reminder of the importance of preparedness.

AI Not an Enemy, Young Artists Choose Collaboration with Artificial Intelligence

Two young Indonesian artists, Koelo Mariam and La Ode Umar, argue that artificial intelligence should be embraced as a creative tool rather than feared as a threat. Speaking at a panel discussion in Jakarta, they emphasised that human emotion and artistic feeling remain irreplaceable by machines. Both artists described using AI as a discussion partner and idea development aid, while continuing to hone their own artistic sensibilities.

No formal protests over Sumatra, Kalimantan fires: Indonesian lawmaker

Indonesian lawmaker Dave Laksono has stated that no official protest notes have been received from Malaysia or Singapore regarding transboundary haze from forest fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan. He urged the government to maintain proactive communication with ASEAN neighbours and strengthen firefighting, prevention, and law enforcement measures. The remarks follow concerns raised by House Speaker Puan Maharani about school closures in Malaysia and health advisories in Singapore due to the haze.

West Java Government Distributes Pasundan and PO Cattle to Three Regencies

The West Java provincial government has distributed 24 superior local cattle breeding stock to three farmer groups in Pangandaran, Sumedang, and Ciamis. The initiative aims to strengthen the local cattle population and preserve the genetic resources of indigenous breeds. The distribution is part of the implementation of a 2018 gubernatorial regulation on livestock breeding development.

Ministry of Religious Affairs distributes 1,000 school kits to madrasahs affected by earthquake

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has distributed 1,000 school kits and 16 temporary classrooms to madrasahs damaged by the Flores earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. Minister Nasaruddin Umar emphasised that disasters must not deprive children of their right to education. Fifteen of the 72 affected madrasahs have been prioritised for assistance in this initial phase.

Fadli: Inauguration of 10,000 Qur'an teachers has cultural dimension

Minister of Culture Fadli Zon has called on Wahdah Islamiyah to help advance Indonesia's national culture, citing the constitutional mandate in Article 32 of the 1945 Constitution. He described the inauguration of 10,000 Qur'an teachers as a major event with a cultural dimension. Fadli also highlighted the close relationship between Islamic cultural expression and local traditions across Indonesia.

Pertamina Provides Desks and Chairs to Support SDN Batu Cermin in NTT

State-owned energy company Pertamina has donated 39 desks and 70 chairs to SDN Batu Cermin in West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, through its corporate social responsibility programme. The school's headmaster said the previous furniture was worn out, with holes and unstable legs, and the new equipment has made learning more comfortable and safe for pupils. The assistance is part of Pertamina's ongoing efforts to improve education quality in local communities.

11 Countries in the World That Most Believe in the Afterlife, Indonesia Included

A World Values Survey covering 2017-2022 shows Bangladesh has the highest belief in life after death at 98.8%, while Indonesia ranks seventh at 73.5%. Among Southeast Asian nations, Malaysia leads at 81.9%, followed by the Philippines and Indonesia, with China recording the lowest level at 11.5%.

House Commission I Supports Strengthening Indonesia's Communication with Neighbouring Countries

Deputy Chairman of House Commission I Dave Laksono confirmed that no neighbouring country has yet filed an official protest over transboundary haze from forest and land fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan. He urged the government to remain vigilant and strengthen prevention efforts to avoid the issue escalating into a diplomatic problem. President Prabowo Subianto has ordered four additional water-bombing helicopters to tackle fires in Central Kalimantan.

Kogabwilhan III distributes humanitarian aid to residents in Jila

Indonesia's Joint Regional Defence Command III has delivered food aid to 500 residents across nine villages in Jila District, Mimika Regency, Central Papua, following a food crisis triggered by a sudden attack and the abduction of nine civilians by the Free Papua Organisation. The aid was airlifted by two Indonesian Air Force helicopters to the district capital and the main evacuation point at Bunaraugin village. Military commander Lieutenant General Lucky Avianto stressed that civilian safety and basic needs remain the government's top priority while troops continue efforts to free those still held captive.

Pratikno: School revitalisation embodies educational equality

Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno has inaugurated the rebuilt SMPN 1 Padangan in Bojonegoro, East Java, as part of a national school revitalisation programme aimed at equalising education. He stressed that human development also requires physical, mental, social and spiritual health, and urged parents and schools to reduce children's dependence on digital devices. The government is also accelerating digitalisation in education by providing Interactive Flat Panel devices to improve learning quality.

Music festival becomes creative outlet for inmates in Central Jakarta

The Central Jakarta Class I State Detention Centre hosted a prison band festival as part of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day commemorations. The event aimed to provide positive rehabilitation and creative development for inmates from several correctional facilities in Jakarta. Organisers emphasised that such activities help build confidence, discipline, and a positive image of the correctional system.

Indonesia has not received diplomatic note from ASEAN countries over forest fires

A senior Indonesian lawmaker has confirmed that no formal protest note has been received from Malaysia or Singapore regarding the impact of forest and land fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan. Dave Laksono, deputy chairman of House Commission I, urged the government to strengthen prevention and response efforts while maintaining open communication with neighbouring countries. The statement follows concerns raised by the House speaker after haze from Kalimantan fires disrupted schools in Malaysia and prompted health advisories in Singapore.

Lampung Deputy Governor: Water bombing to be deployed Sunday to tackle Way Kambas forest fires

Lampung Deputy Governor Jihan Nurlela has confirmed that water bombing operations will begin on Sunday morning to combat forest and land fires in Way Kambas National Park. Thirteen hotspots have been recorded in the East Lampung area, with ground teams facing access difficulties and strong winds hampering firefighting efforts. A weather modification operation is also scheduled for Monday by the national disaster agency.

Data Center Issuers' Business Grows Stronger, Analysts' Stock Recommendations Worth a Look

Indonesia's data centre industry is entering an early growth phase, with national capacity projected to surge from around 580 MW to 3.5 GW by 2030. This expansion opens significant opportunities for local issuers such as Telkom Indonesia, Indosat, Dian Swastatika Sentosa, and DCI Indonesia. Analysts from BRI Danareksa Sekuritas and NH Korindo Sekuritas have issued buy recommendations for several of these stocks, citing strong growth prospects.

ASENSI pushes development of economically valuable intellectual property

The Indonesian Licensing Association (ASENSI) is urging greater commercialisation of intellectual property to unlock its economic potential through stronger licensing practices. The association highlights licensing as a business strategy that can expand markets and create new revenue streams. The government also stressed that IP protection is fundamental to the growth of the creative economy.

Tuti Nurcholifah Yasin Leads Garnita Malahayati NasDem West Java 2025-2030

The NasDem Party's women's wing, Garnita Malahayati, has inaugurated Tuti Nurcholifah Yasin as chair of its West Java regional board for 2025-2030, alongside boards from 24 districts and cities. The organisation aims to raise female political representation from the current 30 per cent to 50 per cent by the 2029 general election. Leaders emphasised that women should not merely fulfil quotas but be positioned as competitive candidates with strong electoral prospects.

South Sumatra Forest and Land Fires Reach 1,926 Hectares, Three Times the Size of Menteng Subdistrict in Jakarta

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has reported that forest and land fires in South Sumatra have affected approximately 1,926 hectares as of Saturday, 22 August. Nine helicopters and over 11,500 personnel have been deployed to tackle the blazes, including water bombing and weather modification operations. The agency is also managing larger fires in Riau, where 16,249 hectares have burned, and has deployed six helicopters to Jambi.

Anak Krakatau volcano erupts nine times on Saturday

Mount Anak Krakatau in South Lampung erupted nine times on Saturday, with ash columns reaching heights of 200 to 400 metres. The volcano remains at Level III (Siaga) status following increased activity in early July, and authorities have urged the public to stay outside a two-kilometre exclusion zone.

Indonesian Red Cross sends 33,947 relief items to quake-hit NTT

The Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) has dispatched 33,947 relief items by sea from Tanjung Priok Port to assist communities affected by the magnitude 7.7 earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The shipment includes basic necessities such as clothing, hygiene kits, tents, and water tanks, and will be distributed across seven districts on Flores Island. PMI Chairman Jusuf Kalla emphasised the importance of speed and accuracy in disaster relief, with distribution to be staged according to the needs of survivors in each area.

Two Immigration Offices in Flores Open Services in Tents Following Earthquake

Two immigration offices on Flores Island in East Nusa Tenggara have set up tents outside their buildings to continue providing services to Indonesian citizens and foreign nationals after an earthquake. The offices in Labuan Bajo and Maumere are operating from temporary facilities, with the Labuan Bajo office even installing air conditioning for applicant comfort. Services will continue in this manner until seismic activity subsides.

When Trading Is No Longer Just About Individual Decisions

Juno Markets hosted Tradependence Day 2026 in Jakarta to highlight how successful online trading depends on a solid ecosystem of technology, information, and community support. The event promoted the principle of 'No Random Move', emphasising agility, accuracy, and transparency as core values. The gathering aimed to strengthen connections among traders, influencers, and partners within Indonesia's trading industry.

Seribu Islands sea transport development a gift for Jakarta's fifth centenary

The Seribu Islands regency government has announced plans to develop sea transport services managed by PT Transjakarta as a gift for Jakarta's fifth centenary. The initiative aims to separate regulatory and operator functions, with Transjakarta taking over operations from the Transportation Agency. Mapping of transport needs and conditions across the islands has begun, with officials acknowledging the high cost and limited availability of current private boat services.

Geely prepares new solid-state battery, could extend EV range

Chinese automaker Geely is developing a next-generation solid-state battery for electric vehicles with an energy density of up to 500 Wh/kg, nearly double that of the best lithium-ion batteries currently available. The company is building its first independent solid-state battery production facility and targets deployment in vehicles by 2027. The technology could enable EVs to travel more than 1,000 kilometres on a single charge.

AI-powered 3 Tesla MRI supports faster stroke diagnosis

Bethsaida Hospital Gading Serpong has introduced an AI-supported 3 Tesla MRI to improve the speed and accuracy of stroke diagnosis. The technology provides higher-resolution brain imaging, helping doctors identify affected areas more clearly. The hospital says its 24-hour Stroke Response Unit integrates emergency, radiology, neurology, and surgical teams for comprehensive care.

Cambodia warns of scams offering social media account protection

Cambodia's Telecommunications Regulator has warned social media users to be wary of fraudulent schemes offering paid 'account protection' services. The regulator clarified that any claim guaranteeing account or page protection in exchange for a fee is false information and may constitute fraud. Scammers use such tactics to extract money or confidential data, including passwords and one-time verification codes.

Port Workers Play Vital Role in Maintaining National Logistics Chain

PT Jakarta International Container Terminal (JICT) has highlighted the crucial role of port workers in sustaining Indonesia's logistics chain and national economy. The company used its third Merdeka Fest to reinforce safety culture, corporate governance, and awareness of the broader impact of terminal operations. JICT's president director emphasised that everyday port activities support industry production and trade across the country.

Jakarta Education Agency Urges Teachers to Teach with Love, Create Safe and Enjoyable Schools

The Jakarta Provincial Education Agency is encouraging teachers and education staff to prioritise love in their teaching duties as part of efforts to create safe, comfortable, and enjoyable learning environments. The initiative aligns with the 'No One Left Behind, No School Left Behind' policy and the 'Langkah Pasti Anak Jakarta' movement, which aims to ensure equal access to education for all children. The agency also highlighted financial support programmes such as KJP Plus and KJMU to remove cost barriers to learning.

The Story of Rofina Fatima: Stroke Sufferer Survives Eight Days in a Tent After NTT Earthquake

Rofina Fatima, a 53-year-old stroke sufferer in West Manggarai, has spent eight days in a makeshift tent with her family following the Flores earthquake, unable to access routine medical care. Her plight highlights the vulnerability of disaster survivors with pre-existing health conditions. Police have since visited her tent to deliver aid, including blankets and basic food supplies, and have committed to identifying other vulnerable residents still sheltering outdoors.

Minister of Religious Affairs inaugurates 10,000 Quran teachers at Wahdah Islamiyah's Fifth Congress

Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar has inaugurated 10,000 Quran teachers during the opening of Wahdah Islamiyah's Fifth Congress at Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta. The initiative aims to tackle Quran illiteracy, which the minister said affects around 60 percent of Indonesia's population. He stressed that the effort requires collaboration between the government, Islamic organisations, and the wider community.

Pertamina distributes aid to 534 earthquake survivors in Palue, NTT

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has delivered logistics and basic necessities to 534 earthquake survivors in Palue District, Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. The aid, distributed on 20-21 August 2026, includes food staples, bedding, emergency lighting and hygiene products. The company said it will continue coordinating with local authorities to support post-disaster recovery.

Prabowo pledges to halt expansion and new fire hotspots in Kalimantan

President Prabowo Subianto has committed to stopping the spread of forest and land fires in West and Central Kalimantan, promising to meet all operational needs of field workers. He expressed confidence that the government can overcome the current fires, citing Indonesia's past success in handling more severe incidents. The President also ordered additional equipment and personnel, including helicopters for water-bombing and water pumps.

Something Different in the Humanitarian Pulpit of Our WhatsApp Group

An opinion piece criticises the silence of certain religious and political groups on social and environmental injustices, contrasting their past activism with their current alignment to the ruling coalition. The author argues that humanitarian concerns have been subordinated to political loyalty and coalition interests.

Indonesia and Uruguay Strengthen Economic Cooperation and Livestock Sector

Indonesia and Uruguay have agreed to deepen bilateral economic cooperation and accelerate inter-regional partnership, focusing on trade, investment, and food security. During a meeting in Jakarta, both sides committed to advancing negotiations on the Indonesia-Mercosur Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IM-CEPA). Uruguay also expressed interest in providing capacity-building training for Indonesian livestock farmers, leveraging its expertise in beef and dairy production.

Deep Blue Aerospace completes long-duration engine test for reusable rocket

Chinese commercial space startup Deep Blue Aerospace has completed a 100-second static fire test of its Thunder-RS engine, designed for the reusable Nebula-2 launch vehicle. The test marks the first time the engine exceeded its steady-state duration threshold, verifying its performance. The milestone follows China's first successful ground recovery of a reusable rocket stage earlier in the week.

673.4 Hectares of Way Kambas National Park Still Ablaze

A forest and land fire has consumed an estimated 673.4 hectares of Way Kambas National Park in East Lampung, with flames still spreading as of Saturday afternoon. Firefighting efforts are hampered by strong winds, difficult terrain, and limited equipment, forcing crews to tackle the blaze manually. Authorities have deployed a joint team of forestry police, military personnel, and volunteers to contain the fire and prevent further damage to the conservation area.

PNM Peduli Provides Clean Water Access for NTT Earthquake Refugees

PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) has installed two water tanks at a refugee post in Ruteng, East Nusa Tenggara, to ensure displaced residents have access to clean water following the recent earthquake. The tanks, with capacities of 2,200 and 1,100 litres, draw water from the local PDAM utility to meet daily needs such as bathing, washing, and drinking. The initiative builds on PNM's earlier distribution of food aid and reflects the state-owned enterprise's ongoing commitment to supporting affected communities during the emergency response period.