Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 22 August 2026

Showing 251-300 of 939 articles

Andre Rosiade Visits SMA 1 Sumbar, Stresses Prabowo Has Rehabilitated 240 Schools in West Sumatra

Gerindra politician Andre Rosiade has highlighted President Prabowo Subianto's school revitalisation programme during a visit to SMA 1 Sumbar in Padang Panjang, stating that 240 schools in West Sumatra have already been rehabilitated across two waves. He pledged to provide 36 computers for a laboratory classroom and to coordinate with Telkomsel regarding unstable internet signals. The school's head confirmed receiving Rp870 million in revitalisation funds managed through a community-led mechanism.

Andre Rosiade Visits SMA 1 Sumbar, Affirms School Repair Programme

Deputy Chairman of House Commission VI Andre Rosiade visited SMA 1 Sumbar in Padang Panjang to highlight the central government's school revitalisation programme in West Sumatra. He pledged 36 computers for a laboratory and promised to coordinate with the education ministry on internet access and the school's bid to become a Garuda school. The school has received Rp870 million in revitalisation funds managed under a self-management scheme.

PLN builds green energy ecosystem technopark on Rengit Island

State electricity company PLN has launched a Green Energy Ecosystem Technopark on Rengit Island in Belitung Regency, providing 24-hour renewable electricity to a remote community previously limited to 12 hours of diesel-powered supply. The pilot project integrates agrivoltaic solar panels, battery storage, and wind turbines, reducing diesel dependence and boosting local economic activity. PLN says the scheme could serve as a model for green energy access in Indonesia's frontier regions.

Netanyahu Condemns Turkey's Bid for Interpol Red Notice over Genocide Allegations

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sharply criticised Turkey's attempt to secure an Interpol red notice against him on genocide charges, labelling President Recep Tayyip Erdogan an 'anti-Semitic dictator'. Turkey's Justice Minister confirmed the legal move, which stems from a case involving 35 defendants at an Istanbul court. The development marks a further escalation in diplomatic tensions between Ankara and Tel Aviv amid the ongoing Gaza conflict.

Prabowo Confident Forest Fires Can Be Overcome: Years Ago It Was Worse and We Managed

President Prabowo Subianto has assured that the government is continuing mitigation efforts to tackle forest and land fires, with the immediate goal of halting the spread of hotspots. Speaking in Palangka Raya, Central Kalimantan, he confirmed that central government support, including additional water-bombing helicopters and water drilling machines, is being provided to regional authorities. Prabowo expressed optimism that the fires can be brought under control, citing more severe incidents in previous years that were successfully managed.

Indonesian Islamic Students reject demonstrations that provoke

The Central Board of the Indonesian Islamic Students (PB PII) has voiced its opposition to demonstrations that exploit democratic spaces to spread provocation, hate politics, and disinformation. The organisation urged all elements of society, including the Pati community, to express their aspirations in an orderly, peaceful, and responsible manner. PB PII also called on the government and the House of Representatives to open constructive and transparent dialogue with the public.

Chinese Drama Fans Targeted by New Type of Fraud, Recognise the Modus Operandi

Indonesia's Task Force for the Eradication of Illegal Financial Activities (Satgas PASTI) has warned that fans of Chinese dramas are being targeted by online fraudsters offering part-time work and copyright purchase schemes. Victims are promised passive income based on view counts of content they have supposedly acquired rights to. The public is urged to be wary of offers promising easy profits from simply watching digital content or depositing funds.

Ahead of Danantara Housing Expo, BNI Presents Property Area at wondrX 2026

PT Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) is showcasing a dedicated property area at its wondrX 2026 event as a pre-event for the upcoming Danantara Housing Expo 2026. The area allows prospective buyers to explore housing options and obtain mortgage financing information, including pre-assessments, ahead of the main expo. BNI is offering promotional mortgage rates starting from 1 per cent, along with fee waivers and credit card instalment incentives.

Forestry Ministry Reveals Challenges in Extinguishing Way Kambas Fire

The Ministry of Forestry has detailed the difficulties faced by firefighting teams tackling a blaze in the peatland area of Way Kambas National Park in East Lampung. The remote location and lack of nearby water sources are hampering efforts to control the fire, which began on Friday. Authorities are intensifying patrols and coordination with local agencies to prevent the fire from spreading further.

Counterfeit Money Syndicate in South Tangerang Targeted Private Bank with Rp36 Billion

The Metro Jaya Regional Police have uncovered a counterfeit money syndicate that planned to circulate Rp36 billion in fake Rp100,000 notes through a private bank. Four suspects were arrested, including the main financier, and two are repeat offenders in similar cases. The counterfeit notes were seized before they could enter circulation.

Rudianto Lallo Supports National Police Chief in Thoroughly Investigating Kalimantan Forest and Land Fires

House of Representatives Commission III member Rudianto Lallo has praised the National Police's swift response to forest and land fires in Kalimantan, urging thorough investigation and prosecution of those responsible. He emphasised that handling must go beyond firefighting to include law enforcement and prevention. The government has deployed over 12,800 personnel and is conducting air operations and weather modification to control the fires.

Weather Modification Operation Held in Nusantara Capital City Airspace to Tackle Drought

The Nusantara Capital City Authority, together with the Indonesian Air Force and BMKG, has launched a weather modification operation to address prolonged dry conditions in East Kalimantan. The operation involves seeding clouds with sodium chloride to increase rainfall and safeguard water supplies. Authorities are also aiming to reduce the risk of forest and land fires during the dry season.

Anak Krakatau Volcano Erupts, Spewing Ash 400 Metres High

Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait erupted on Saturday, sending a thick column of ash approximately 400 metres above its summit. The volcano remains at Level III (Siaga) status, with authorities warning that further eruptions are highly likely. Residents, tourists, and fishermen have been advised to stay at least two kilometres from the crater.

Energy Sovereignty is Pertamina's Message on Indonesia's Independence Day

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening national energy sovereignty, equitable access, and resilience as Indonesia marks its 81st Independence Day. The company is focusing on expanding distribution to remote and underdeveloped regions while advancing lower-emission fuels. Its president director highlighted the role of domestic resources such as palm oil in supporting energy self-sufficiency.

Wot Batu Presents Opera Jawa: A Labyrinth

Wot Batu in Bandung will host a cine-concert reimagining Garin Nugroho's 2006 film Opera Jawa without colour or dialogue, accompanied by live music from KUNTARI. The performance runs from 11 to 13 September 2026, preceded by daily discussions. The event brings together filmmaker Garin Nugroho, artist Sunaryo, and the Bandung duo KUNTARI in an experimental presentation that moves cinema beyond conventional screening formats.

Bapanas: Rp1.2 trillion budget prepared for natural disaster food reserves

The National Food Agency (Bapanas) has announced that the government has allocated Rp1.2 trillion for government food reserves to address natural disasters throughout 2026. The funds are intended to ensure food needs are met for affected communities, with Perum Bulog tasked with distribution. Additionally, Rp17.5 trillion has been set aside for the second phase of the rice food assistance programme for July, August, and September 2026.

Understanding PAYDI Cash Value to Keep Policies Active

Indonesian life insurance customers are urged to understand how cash value works in unit-linked products (PAYDI) as medical inflation is projected to reach 17.8% in 2026. Prudential Indonesia highlights that insufficient cash value can cause policies and riders to lapse, and recommends regular policy reviews and premium payments.

Prabowo hosts Chinese ministers to deepen bilateral ties

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and other senior Chinese officials to strengthen bilateral cooperation across politics, economy, science and technology. Prabowo praised China's development under Xi Jinping and expressed openness to Chinese investment, while Wang pledged support for Indonesia's industrialisation and modernisation. The meeting followed the inaugural Comprehensive Strategic Dialogue and second 2+2 meeting between the two countries.

State Secretary: Prabowo stresses law enforcement for forest fire perpetrators

State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has said President Prabowo Subianto is emphasising legal action against those proven to have deliberately started forest and land fires in Kalimantan. The President raised the issue during two coordination meetings on fire handling in West and Central Kalimantan. The government will pursue enforcement against individuals, corporations, or anyone ordering land clearing by burning.

Trans Flores Access Reopened as Crews Clear Landslides Following Earthquake

Crews have cleared landslide debris blocking the Trans Flores highway in Ende Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, after a 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck the region on 15 August 2026. The reopening restores the main intercity route across Flores Island, which had been severed, hampering resident mobility and the distribution of aid to affected communities.

Police to Hold Case Conference on Sexual Violence Allegations Against SPPG Head in Central Lombok

Central Lombok Police are preparing to hold a case conference regarding alleged sexual violence involving Salman Alfarizi, head of the Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit in Praya. Investigators will first obtain testimony from a forensic psychology expert to assess the victim's trauma level. The results will determine whether the case proceeds to investigation or is dropped.

Peatland Fire in Betara, Jambi Enters Third Day

Firefighting teams from Manggala Agni and the Jambi land and forest fire task force are battling a peatland fire in Betara, Tanjung Jabung Barat, for the third consecutive day. The fire, burning approximately one metre below the surface, has affected nearly three hectares of areca palm and oil palm plantations. Crews face significant challenges including scarce water sources and the risk of falling trees whose roots have been burned.

PB PII Calls for Unity, Rejects Provocative Actions

The Central Board of the Indonesian Islamic Students (PB PII) has urged the public to reject any planned demonstrations that could serve as vehicles for provocation, ahead of a rally by the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB) at the DPR on 27 August 2026. Chairman Kevin Prayoga emphasised that while expressing aspirations is a democratic right, it must be conducted in an orderly manner and within constitutional boundaries. The organisation issued a 12-point statement calling for dialogue, legal compliance, and the preservation of national unity.

State Secretary: Four Corporations Under Investigation over West Kalimantan Forest Fires

State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has revealed that four corporations are under investigation in connection with forest and land fires in West Kalimantan. President Prabowo Subianto has instructed firm legal action against any individual or corporation found to have violated the law, including the possibility of revoking business permits.

New Desks and Chairs Ignite Learning Spirit at SDN Batu Cermin

PT Pertamina has donated 39 desks and 70 chairs to SDN Batu Cermin in West Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, through its corporate social responsibility programme. The school's headmaster said the new furniture replaces worn-out, unstable equipment and creates a safer, more comfortable learning environment. The initiative is part of Pertamina's ongoing efforts to improve education quality in local communities.

BMKG urges fire mitigation as East Kalimantan records 11,869 hotspots

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has reported 11,869 hotspots in East Kalimantan between 1 and 21 August, surpassing the 9,793 recorded during the same period in 2015. The agency attributes the increase to drier El Nino conditions and warns that the peak heat period from September to October is likely to push hotspot numbers higher. BMKG is urging residents to avoid burning land for clearing and to take precautions against accidental fires, as the province currently averages around 565 hotspots per day.

Trump Says Iran Not Ready to Make a Proper Deal

US President Donald Trump has stated that Tehran is not yet ready to make a 'proper deal' as Washington monitors developments in the war with Iran. The US has pledged to impose the toughest financial sanctions in history aimed at toppling Iran's leadership, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent set to outline details on Monday. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has called for an end to the Middle East war, claiming Tehran is in a stronger position than Washington.

East Jakarta City Government catches illegal waste dumpers in Ciracas

The East Jakarta City Government has conducted a sting operation against individuals illegally dumping waste along Jalan Raya Bogor in Ciracas. One offender was apprehended and is being processed by civil servant investigators for fines under Jakarta Regional Regulation No. 3 of 2013 on Waste Management. Mayor Munjirin has instructed sub-district and ward officials to carry out routine patrols to prevent repeat offences.

PLN SustainAction 2026 Returns, Opens Opportunities for Sustainable Innovation

State electricity company PT PLN has launched PLN SustainAction 2026, a free innovation competition open to communities, academics, startups and businesses. The programme seeks practical solutions for sustainable development challenges across five categories, including climate innovation and renewable energy for disadvantaged regions. Winners will receive mentoring and support to implement their projects in the field.

Prabowo Demands Firm Action Against Parties Proven to Cause Forest and Land Fires

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed law enforcement to take firm action against individuals and corporations proven responsible for forest and land fires. State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi revealed that four corporations in West Kalimantan are currently under investigation. The President emphasised that anyone found to have ordered or carried out land clearing by burning must be prosecuted according to the law.

DEN commends PLN for building Green Energy Ecosystem Technopark on Rengit Island, Belitung

The National Energy Council has praised state electricity firm PLN for developing the Green Energy Ecosystem Technopark on Rengit Island, Belitung, describing it as Indonesia's only green energy ecosystem based on local potential. The project combines solar power, battery storage, green hydrogen and diesel generation, and has extended electricity supply on the island from 12 hours to 24 hours a day. DEN urged wider adoption of such low-carbon innovations in remote and isolated areas to support national energy resilience.

200 Madura Residents from RMP4 Ready to Go to Jakarta to Support Government Programmes

Around 200 residents from Madura, organised under the Relawan Madura Pengawal Program Presiden Prabowo (RMP4), have gathered in Bangkalan Regency to voice support for President Prabowo Subianto's national priority programmes. The group, which includes becak drivers, construction workers, and salesmen, is responding to student protests against the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme in Jakarta. They plan to travel to the capital on 27 August for a peaceful demonstration, with 500 tickets being prepared.

Navy Chief Assesses South Kalimantan Haze Disaster Not as Severe as Reported on Social Media

Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Ali visited South Kalimantan to inspect forest and land fire conditions, concluding that the haze was not as severe as portrayed on social media. Governor Muhidin echoed this assessment, noting that no helicopters were operating to douse fires, which he said indicated the situation was not critical. Both officials urged residents to pray for the haze to dissipate.

Without a Mask, Prabowo Inhales Smoke from Kalimantan Forest Fires

President Prabowo Subianto visited a fire-affected forest area in Palangkaraya, Central Kalimantan, without wearing a mask, to inspect the situation first-hand. He subsequently chaired a meeting on forest and land fire management and ordered the immediate dispatch of additional water pumps to the province. The fires have drawn international attention due to smoke affecting neighbouring Singapore and Malaysia.

Anak Krakatau erupts again on Saturday, ash column reaches 400 metres

Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait erupted on Saturday afternoon, producing a thick ash column approximately 400 metres above the summit. The eruption lasted 139 seconds and was recorded with a maximum amplitude of 55 millimetres. Authorities have urged residents, tourists and fishermen to stay outside the recommended two-kilometre exclusion radius.

IEU-CEPA Enters Final Stage, Indonesia Optimistic for Implementation in Early 2027

Indonesia and the European Union are nearing the conclusion of negotiations for the Indonesia-EU Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, with the signing expected by October 2026. The government is preparing for swift ratification and implementation in early 2027, ahead of the expiry of the EU's Generalised System of Preferences facility. A high-level dialogue in Jakarta also addressed non-tariff barriers and regulatory challenges such as the EU Deforestation Regulation and carbon border tax.

I-EU CEPA Opens Path for Indonesian Products to Dominate European Market

The Indonesian government is accelerating preparations for the implementation of the Indonesia-European Union Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (I-EU CEPA), which is expected to significantly boost national exports and investment. Trade Minister Budi Santoso highlighted that the agreement will eliminate tariffs on 98 percent of tariff lines, covering key Indonesian exports such as palm oil, textiles, footwear, and rubber products. The deal, targeting signature in the fourth quarter of 2026, also addresses services, investment, digitalisation, and sustainability issues, though the government remains watchful of EU regulations like the EUDR and CBAM.

TSI says Sunda Green Magpie nearly extinct

Taman Safari Indonesia founder Tony Sumampau has warned that the Sunda Green Magpie, endemic to Mount Pangrango in West Java, is on the brink of extinction. The bird has disappeared from its native habitat due to poaching for use as a 'master bird' to train other songbirds. Sumampau suggested the species could serve as a mascot for West Java alongside the Surili and the Javan leopard.

Wang Yi Meets Luhut in Jakarta, China Encourages Investment and Economic Cooperation

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with National Economic Council Chairman Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan in Jakarta to discuss strengthening bilateral ties, particularly in economic cooperation and investment. Wang expressed China's support for Indonesia's industrialisation and encouraged Chinese companies to continue investing in the country. Luhut affirmed that Chinese investment has contributed positively to Indonesia's economy and that the government remains open to Chinese businesses.

Motive of 'Torch Man' Forest Fire Perpetrator in Central Kalimantan: Wanted to Clear Land

Police in Palangka Raya have arrested the so-called 'torch man' who went viral on social media for allegedly starting forest and land fires in Central Kalimantan. The suspect admitted to clearing land by burning, and a second individual has also been detained. Both are being held for further investigation under Indonesia's criminal code.

President Prabowo leads meeting and inspects forest fire site in West Kalimantan

President Prabowo Subianto chaired a coordination meeting with the National Disaster Management Agency, the Ministry of Forestry, the military, police, and local government to address forest and land fires in West Kalimantan. Following the meeting, he visited a fire site in Kubu Raya regency. The visit underscores the government's focus on tackling recurring land and forest fires in the region.

Indonesian youth urged to preserve cultural identity in MSME

Bank Indonesia Deputy Governor Thomas A.M. Djiwandono has called on young Indonesians to preserve the nation's cultural identity while developing MSME products, arguing that cultural authenticity is a competitive advantage amid global competition. He emphasised the need for innovation through technology, intergenerational collaboration, and wider support for MSME players in capacity building, digitalisation, market access, and financing to ensure the sector's sustainability and contribution to the national economy.

Transmart Full Day Sale Offers Customers Discounts of 50%+20%

Indonesian retail chain Transmart is holding a Full Day Sale on Sunday, 23 August 2026, offering discounts of up to 50% plus an additional 20% across household goods, fashion, and electronics. The promotion is available at all Transmart stores nationwide from opening until 10pm, with the extra 20% discount applying to purchases made using Bank Mega, Bank Mega Syariah, or Bank Mandiri credit cards. The sale forms part of Transmart's ongoing strategy to drive consumer spending through bank partnerships.

Video: 5 Gold PROPER Awards, Proof of PGE's Success in Environmental Management

PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy (PGE) is positioning itself as a key player in Indonesia's energy transition, with its president director highlighting the company's environmental achievements at the 2026 IIGCE. Indonesia holds 40% of the world's geothermal potential, yet has only tapped 11% of it, prompting PGE to target 1.8 GW of geothermal capacity by 2034. The company is also exploring new business opportunities including green hydrogen and community economic development.

Police: Counterfeit money syndicate in South Tangerang planned to circulate notes via bank

The Metro Jaya Regional Police have revealed that a syndicate producing counterfeit Rp100,000 notes with a total face value of Rp36 billion intended to distribute them through a private bank by mixing fake notes with genuine ones. Four suspects, including two repeat offenders, were arrested at a warehouse in Taman Tekno, Serpong, before any counterfeit money could enter circulation. Police are continuing to investigate the funding network behind the operation, which involved assets worth up to Rp1 billion.

Superpower US, Yet Nearly 750,000 of Its Citizens Are Homeless

The United States recorded 745,652 homeless people in January 2025, with Washington, D.C. and New York having the highest rates per 10,000 residents. High housing costs and limited affordable housing are key drivers, while poverty rates do not always correlate with homelessness. Veteran homelessness has fallen by 56% since 2009, but the overall problem remains a major challenge.

Sumatran Tiger Habitat Cleared, Forestry Ministry Names Six Suspects

Indonesia's Forestry Ministry has named six suspects in an illegal logging case inside the Kerumutan Wildlife Reserve in Riau, a key habitat for the critically endangered Sumatran tiger. Investigators seized around 60 cubic metres of processed timber, chainsaws, and mobile phones during the operation. The ministry says the logging had been ongoing for about two months and that other suspects remain at large.

What Is Israel's E-1 Plan Condemned by 8 Islamic Nations and Prompting the UK to Consider Sanctions?

Eight Arab and Islamic foreign ministers have jointly condemned Israel's E-1 settlement plan in the occupied West Bank, describing it as a dangerous escalation that would sever the geographical continuity of Palestinian territory. The plan includes tenders for 1,234 new settlement units east of occupied Jerusalem. The ministers reaffirmed that a two-state solution remains the only path to a just and lasting peace.

Unsoed Vice Rector I acknowledges KPK investigation focused on independent admission pathway selection

Vice Rector I of Jenderal Soedirman University, Prof Noor Farid, has confirmed that a Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) examination centred on the mechanisms and criteria for selecting new students through the independent pathway. He stated that the rector's access to the admission system was for monitoring purposes only and could not be used to pass unqualified candidates. The KPK has named six suspects, including the rector, in an alleged corruption case involving new student admissions at the state university.

Home Affairs Deputy Minister urges health students in Central Sulawesi to actively tackle TB

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Akhmad Wiyagus has called on health students in Central Sulawesi to play an active role in accelerating tuberculosis elimination efforts. He encouraged students to act as first-line screening agents within their families and to support TB patients in completing their treatment. The minister also highlighted the potential for students to use community service programmes and research to improve case detection across the province.