Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 22 August 2026

Showing 401-450 of 939 articles

Bogor to Build Hajj and Umrah Embarkation at Nurul Wathon Grand Mosque with Rp 142 Billion Budget

The Bogor Regency government is preparing to build a hajj and umrah embarkation facility at the Nurul Wathon Grand Mosque in Cibinong, with a budget of Rp 142 billion from the 2027 regional budget. The seven-storey building is intended to serve the regency's large pilgrim quota, which is the largest in Indonesia at 3,450 pilgrims this year. Construction is scheduled to begin in early 2027 after the tender process in December 2026.

Maybank Marathon Targets Carbon Neutrality by 2030

Maybank Indonesia has reaffirmed its commitment to making the Maybank Marathon a carbon-neutral event by 2030 through measured emissions tracking and community engagement. The initiative, highlighted during the Maybank Marathon Sustainability Day 2026 in Bali, involves partnerships with Visa, BMW Group, and local stakeholders. The bank aims to extend the event's positive impact beyond the race itself to benefit the Balinese community and environment.

MKB Renamed LAKB, Foke Inaugurated as Chairman of the Adat Council

The Majelis Kaum Betawi (MKB) has been renamed the Lembaga Adat Kebudayaan Betawi (LAKB) following an extraordinary congress in Jakarta. Fauzi Bowo, known as Foke, was inaugurated as Chairman of the Adat Council and granted the title Datuk Mua'allim Ahlul Adat. The congress also issued recommendations for the Jakarta governor to formally recognise LAKB as the umbrella organisation for Betawi communities and to revise the 2014 regional regulation on Betawi cultural preservation by 2027.

Three Leaders Named KPK Suspects, This is Unsoed's Official Statement

Universitas Jenderal Soedirman has expressed deep concern after the Corruption Eradication Commission named three of its senior leaders as suspects in an alleged extortion and gratification scheme involving new student admissions. The university has assured that academic activities will continue normally while it coordinates with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology to appoint acting officials. Unsoed has also pledged to reform its admissions governance to prevent future corruption, collusion, and nepotism.

Indonesia and China United in Foiling Malicious Foreign Intentions

Chinese Defence Minister Admiral Dong Jun has stated that Indonesia and China will jointly thwart any foreign powers with malicious intentions. Speaking during a visit to Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin in Jakarta, he emphasised that the two nations share a common destiny and responsibility to maintain regional stability. The visit forms part of the second 2+2 meeting and bilateral talks between Indonesia and China in 2026.

Police hunt other actors behind counterfeit money operation in South Tangerang

Jakarta Metropolitan Police are pursuing additional suspects believed to be the main financiers of a counterfeit money syndicate that produced fake rupiah notes with a face value of approximately Rp36 billion in South Tangerang. Four suspects have been arrested, including the alleged founder who funded production equipment worth Rp1 billion. Police confirmed the counterfeit notes had not yet circulated widely thanks to a tip-off from local residents.

Navy Chief Says South Kalimantan Forest Fires Not as Severe as Social Media Reports

Indonesian Navy Chief of Staff Admiral Muhammad Ali has stated that forest and land fires in South Kalimantan, particularly in the Guntung Damar area of Banjarbaru, are not as severe as portrayed on social media. During an inspection with Governor Muhidin and other officials, he noted that sea winds helped disperse smoke and that central government assistance, including aircraft and personnel, remains in place. The governor urged residents to avoid burning and to clear surrounding areas if fires are spotted.

Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers Enthusiastic About Free Vehicle Checks at Metro Jaya National Gathering

Hundreds of online motorcycle taxi drivers took advantage of free vehicle inspection services during the 'Kopdar Kebangsaan Jaga Jakarta' event organised by the Metro Jaya Regional Police. The gathering, held to celebrate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, aimed to strengthen ties between the police and ojol communities. Police officials emphasised the strategic role of ojol drivers in maintaining public order and safety in Jakarta.

Forest and Land Fires in Kalimantan: Expert Urges Public Not to Panic

Professor Gusti Hardiansyah of Tanjungpura University has called for calm amid rising public concern over forest and land fires in Kalimantan. He stressed that satellite hotspot data must be verified on the ground before drawing conclusions, noting that actual fire sites were fewer than reported. The expert also highlighted the need for coordinated preparedness across government, business, academia, and the public.

On Indonesia's Independence Day, PSI Daily Chair Ahmad Ali Calls for Nation to Be Managed Together

Ahmad Ali, Daily Chair of the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI), used the 81st anniversary of Indonesia's independence to call for equal rights for all citizens and a more inclusive approach to governance. He argued that the nation should be managed collectively rather than through power struggles alone. Ali also outlined PSI's ambition to enter parliament in 2029, framing it as a crucial test of whether the party's ideals can be translated into policy.

Pekanbaru Mayor Helps Extinguish 5-Hectare Forest and Land Fire, Urges Residents Not to Burn Land

Pekanbaru Mayor Agung Nugroho personally joined TNI-Polri personnel in extinguishing a forest and land fire that burned approximately five hectares in Tenayan Raya District. The fire was successfully put out by around 9 p.m. local time. The mayor urged residents to refrain from clearing land by burning, citing the current fire-prone weather conditions.

Authority Declares Flight Services in Samarinda Still Safe

The Aji Pangeran Tumenggung Pranoto Airport authority in Samarinda, East Kalimantan, has confirmed that flight operations remain unaffected by haze from forest and land fires. Passenger movement has been stable, with over 40,000 travellers served in the first three weeks of August 2026. The airport has prepared mitigation measures, including air filtration and health facilities, while coordinating with relevant agencies.

Denying Early Start for 2029 Election, Ahmad Ali: PSI Started First

The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) has begun preparing for the 2029 general election, with Daily Chair Ahmad Ali rejecting claims that the party is jumping the gun. He argues the party is simply working earlier to achieve its goal of entering parliament after failing to win seats in 2019 and 2024. PSI is consolidating its structure down to the village level and building dedicated campaign teams in each province.

JICT highlights port's role in Indonesia's logistics movement

PT Jakarta International Container Terminal (JICT) has underscored the vital role of its port workers in keeping Indonesia's logistics flowing. The company held its third Merdeka Fest at Tanjung Priok Port to celebrate the contribution of its workforce to the national economy. Management emphasised that daily terminal operations support broader industrial production, trade, and public needs.

BPBD Cianjur increases daily water distribution schedule

The Cianjur Regency Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) has expanded its clean water distribution schedule to 13 drought-affected sub-districts, delivering around 30,000 litres daily to 1,000 households. The agency has distributed approximately 300,000 litres throughout the dry season and is collaborating with the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) to reach southern areas. Officials are also conducting fire prevention outreach and urging residents to use water wisely.

After Pontianak, Prabowo Continues to Lead Forest and Land Fire Handling Meeting in Palangkaraya

President Prabowo Subianto continued his working visit to Palangkaraya, Central Kalimantan, to review forest and land fire handling efforts. He held a limited coordination meeting at the Forward Air Task Force Post, attended by senior ministers and security officials. The visit follows a similar meeting in Pontianak, West Kalimantan, as part of the government's response to the ongoing land and forest fires.

Prabowo Surveys Burned Land in West Kalimantan, Greets Officers and Residents

President Prabowo Subianto visited a fire-affected area in Kubu Raya Regency, West Kalimantan, to inspect forest and land fire handling efforts. He stressed the need for rapid and coordinated action to control the blazes and prevent further spread. The visit also included direct engagement with firefighting personnel and local residents.

Beware of Smart Glasses Misuse: Schoolgirl Becomes Victim of Unauthorised Recording

The misuse of smart glasses has raised public concern after a teenage boy was filmed secretly recording a schoolgirl without her consent. The incident highlights growing privacy risks associated with discreet wearable cameras, which can facilitate cyberbullying and harassment. Schools and parents are urged to educate young people about digital privacy boundaries.

President Leads Forest and Land Fire Handling Meeting in West Kalimantan: Every Violation Must Be Prosecuted

President Prabowo Subianto travelled to West Kalimantan to personally lead coordination efforts against forest and land fires, instructing rapid and integrated action across affected provinces. He emphasised that law enforcement must not be neglected, with strict action required against individuals or corporations proven to have triggered fires. The government aims to bring the fires under control quickly to restore air quality and normal economic activity.

Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir officially becomes new president of Bangladesh

Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has been sworn in as Bangladesh's 23rd president following an indirect election in which he secured 255 parliamentary votes. The BNP leader's inauguration marks the first contested presidential election in Bangladesh in 35 years. He immediately swore in six new members of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's cabinet.

Prabowo surveys forest and land fires in Kubu Raya, ensures optimal handling

President Prabowo Subianto visited a fire-affected area in Kubu Raya, West Kalimantan, to inspect conditions and ensure firefighting efforts are running optimally. He stressed the need for rapid and coordinated handling to prevent the fires from spreading. The visit also included direct engagement with firefighters and local residents.

Two Repeat Offenders Involved in Rp36 Billion Counterfeit Money Syndicate in South Tangerang

Polda Metro Jaya has uncovered a counterfeit money operation in South Tangerang that produced Rp36 billion in fake Rp100,000 notes. Four suspects have been arrested, two of whom are repeat offenders previously convicted for similar crimes in 2019 and 2022. Police seized printing equipment, ink, and 360,000 counterfeit banknotes from a warehouse in the Taman Tekno area.

Cabinet Secretary: 3 TNI Battalions and 6 Water-Bombing Helicopters Deployed to Tackle Kalimantan Forest Fires

President Prabowo Subianto has ordered the rapid deployment of additional military personnel and aerial firefighting assets to combat forest and land fires in West Kalimantan. The government will send three TNI battalions, six water-bombing helicopters, and expand weather modification operations. Local authorities have also been urged to enforce regulations strictly and strengthen preventive measures.

East Manggarai Regency Clarifies After District Head's Outburst at BNPB Official

The East Manggarai Regency administration has issued a clarification following a viral video showing the Lamba Leda Utara district head berating a National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) official over discrepancies in earthquake aid. The regency secretary attributed the incident to poor communication and coordination during the emergency response. The local government has pledged to strengthen cross-sector coordination to ensure all parties remain focused on serving affected communities.

Encouraging the Young Generation to Adapt to the Changing World of Work Landscape

Indonesia faces a significant challenge as over one million university graduates remain unemployed amid a sluggish business sector and rapid technological change. The rise of automation and artificial intelligence is reshaping the labour market, eliminating administrative roles while creating demand for new digital skills. Experts and government officials stress the urgent need for the young workforce to adapt and acquire qualifications aligned with the evolving needs of industry.

KPK: Unsoed Rector Extortion Case Involves High School Teachers

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revealed that high school teachers were allegedly involved in negotiating bribes for student admissions through the independent pathway at Jenderal Soedirman University (Unsoed). The scheme was reportedly orchestrated by the university's Head of Academic Affairs, with fees ranging from Rp50 million to Rp500 million per student. Six suspects have been named, including the rector and vice rector, following a sting operation in Purwokerto and Jakarta.

Putin's Drone Strike Hits Zelenskiy's Hometown, Dozens Killed

At least 16 people were killed and more than 130 injured in a Russian drone attack on a shopping centre in Kryvyi Rih, the hometown of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. Regional governor Oleksandr Hanzha reported that 22 children were among the wounded, with 29 people in serious condition. Zelenskiy condemned the attack as 'deeply cynical and vile', noting that a second drone struck the site half an hour later in an apparent deliberate targeting of emergency responders.

Supporting Government Programme, Nindya Karya Builds 20 Sekolah Rakyat

State-owned construction firm PT Nindya Karya has completed 20 Sekolah Rakyat (People's Schools) as part of the government's national strategic project to expand access to quality education. The Ministry of Social Affairs has formed a task force to accelerate the construction of 61 additional permanent schools. Nindya Karya is also progressing on water infrastructure projects, including the Jatiluhur SPAM and KSCS Package 3.

KWT Anjani Processes Cassava into Chips and Flour, UMB Helps Strengthen Business

The Anjani Women Farmers Group (KWT) in Indonesia is receiving assistance from Mercu Buana University to develop its cassava processing business. The programme, funded by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, focuses on improving production technology, digital marketing, and financial management. The initiative aims to help the group expand its market and increase the economic value of its processed cassava products.

BNI to Feature Indonesian Musicians at wondrX 2026

State-owned lender PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk will showcase a line-up of Indonesian musicians at its wondrX 2026 event in Tangerang this August. The bank says music is part of its effort to attract a broad audience to an event that also promotes banking services, property, automotive and lifestyle offerings. Visitors will be able to access financial talkshows, product launches and various promotions through the wondr by BNI app.

Andre Rosiade Visits Amor Market, Pushes Bypass Route as Solution for Toll Road and Congestion

Deputy Chairman of House Commission VI Andre Rosiade has proposed integrating a long-planned bypass route with the Sicincin-Bukittinggi toll road project to ease congestion in Padang Luar, West Sumatra. The plan would see the central government acquire land and build the 6.7-kilometre bypass, with a toll exit prepared at Amor Market. A cross-agency meeting is scheduled for 8 September to discuss the route.

Way Kambas National Park Forest in Lampung on Fire, Flames Still Not Extinguished

A forest fire has been burning in Way Kambas National Park in East Lampung Regency since Friday afternoon, with joint teams still working to extinguish it as of Saturday. Access difficulties are hampering firefighting efforts, and officials are still assessing the extent of the damage. The park previously experienced a major fire in January 2026 that burned more than 2,600 hectares.

Mataram city government: MBG 3B beneficiaries reach 24,867 people

The Mataram city government in West Nusa Tenggara has reported that 24,864 people are receiving benefits from the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme under the 3B category, which covers pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers. The programme is viewed as a long-term state investment in building a healthy and productive future generation. It is also expected to contribute to reducing stunting rates in the city.

Police investigate pile-up in Puncak that killed four people

Police in Cianjur, West Java, are investigating a multi-vehicle collision on the Puncak-Cipanas route that left four people dead and ten others injured. The accident, which occurred on Friday night, involved a truck, two minibuses, and two motorcycles. Initial findings suggest the truck suffered brake failure on a steep descent.

Prakarsa Warga holds arts and cultural performance at Ciganjur Community Hall

Prakarsa Warga, a civic participation organisation, staged an arts and cultural performance at Balai Warga Ciganjur in South Jakarta as part of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations. The event highlighted the importance of public spaces for sustaining cultural life in Jakarta. Organisers praised the Jakarta provincial government's support for grassroots community spaces amid the city's development towards becoming a global city.

Riau Police and Health Office Conduct Health Checks on Residents Affected by Pelalawan Forest Fire Haze

Riau Police, together with the provincial health office, have deployed medical teams to Kerumutan, Pelalawan, to screen residents, particularly children, for respiratory illnesses caused by prolonged exposure to forest and land fire haze. The initiative includes mask distribution and trauma healing, reflecting a broader approach to fire management that encompasses public health and ecological concerns. Authorities report that 81 of 270 hectares of burned land have been extinguished after 23 days of firefighting efforts.

Palangka Raya city government deploys excavator to tackle forest and land fires

The Palangka Raya city government has mobilised an excavator to deepen drying ditches in Petuk Katimpun as firefighting crews struggle with water shortages during the ongoing dry season. The city has recorded 306 forest and land fire incidents covering 264.79 hectares between 1 June and 21 August 2026. Authorities have also extended the emergency response status by 29 days until 8 September 2026.

BI urges young generation to preserve identity of Indonesian MSME products

Bank Indonesia Deputy Governor Thomas A.M. Djiwandono has called on young Indonesians to maintain the cultural identity of micro, small, and medium enterprise products while embracing innovation and technology. Speaking at the 2026 Karya Kreatif Indonesia event, he stressed that cultural heritage is a competitive advantage in global markets. He also highlighted the importance of regeneration, collaboration, and digitalisation for the sustainability of Indonesian MSMEs.

Malaysia Closes Nearly 600 Schools Near Indonesian Border Due to Forest Fires

Malaysian authorities have closed almost 600 schools in Sarawak as haze from forest and land fires in Indonesian Borneo pushes air quality to unhealthy levels. The worst-affected district, Serian, borders Indonesia's West Kalimantan province and recorded an Air Pollutant Index of 191. The closures highlight the recurring transboundary haze problem that has plagued Southeast Asia for decades despite regional agreements.

Long-Term Development Key to Financial Company Maturity

Accumulated experience through market cycles, regulatory changes, and client interactions is more valuable than rapid growth for financial companies, according to Elev8 market analyst Kar Yong Ang. Companies that learn from past incidents and build internal capabilities are better prepared for market disruptions. The distinction between growth and development becomes most apparent during periods of market volatility.

Palangka Raya Firefighters Continue Battling Land Fires

Firefighters in Palangka Raya, Central Kalimantan, are working continuously to extinguish land and forest fires amid hot and dry conditions. The local disaster mitigation agency recorded 306 fire incidents between 1 June and 21 August 2026, burning 264.79 hectares. The city has extended its emergency alert status until 8 September 2026.

Rupiah Weakens, Indonesia's Foreign Currency Deposits Surge 38%

Foreign currency deposits in Indonesia grew far faster than rupiah deposits over the past year, with time deposits in foreign currencies rising 38% year-on-year as of July 2026. The surge coincided with the rupiah's depreciation from around Rp16,450 to Rp17,994 per US dollar. Bank Indonesia data indicates the increase reflects genuine new placements rather than just exchange rate effects.

Trump Threatens Countries Aiding Iran: How Effective Are US Sanctions?

US President Donald Trump has threatened sweeping economic sanctions against nations maintaining trade ties with Iran, describing it as the most devastating economic operation ever directed at a country. Iran's foreign minister dismissed the threat as a diversion from America's domestic crises, while data shows Iranian trade has already fallen 24% year-on-year. Legal experts note that unilateral US sanctions lack UN authorisation and face likely vetoes from Russia and China.

Unsoed Rector Gratification Case: KPK Speaks Out on Fate of Extorted Students

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed that students allegedly extorted for admission to Jenderal Soedirman University (Unsoed) will not face legal consequences and may continue their studies as normal. The anti-graft body has named six suspects, including the rector and two university officials, in connection with alleged extortion and gratification related to new student admissions. KPK has handed over any evaluation or correction of student admissions to the rectorate and the Ministry of Higher Education.

Lubuk Basung Prison offers cash and Qurans to inmates who memorise verses

Lubuk Basung Class II B Penitentiary in Agam Regency, West Sumatra, is offering cash and copies of the Quran to inmates who memorise Asmaul Husna and selected surahs as part of a religious rehabilitation programme. The initiative aims to help prisoners remain calm and avoid negative behaviour while serving their sentences. The prison also provides vocational training in welding, flower arranging, farming, fish cultivation, and poultry rearing to prepare inmates for life after release.

Forest and land fires surround housing near Syamsudin Noor International Airport

Forest and land fires have encircled residential areas near Syamsudin Noor International Airport in Banjarbaru, South Kalimantan, threatening two housing complexes. Volunteer firefighters are battling the blaze with limited water supplies, and residents whose homes are engulfed in smoke have been advised to evacuate temporarily.

UN urges US not to block Palestinian access to General Assembly session

The United Nations has said it has not received any official notification from the United States regarding reports that Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas may again be barred from attending this year's UN General Assembly. A UN spokesman stressed that Washington must honour its host country obligations to facilitate the entry of diplomats and government officials travelling to New York for UN business. The remarks follow reports that the Trump administration plans to deny Abbas a visa for a second consecutive year.

Paramadina Rector: Independent Admission Route Prone to Abuse

Paramadina University Rector Didik J Rachbini has warned that the independent admission route for new students is highly susceptible to manipulation and abuse. He made the remarks in response to a corruption case involving the Rector of Jenderal Soedirman University and several other officials. Didik called for the route to be halted and transformed with better governance, citing the large sums of public money involved.

NEXT Indonesia Center supports DSI in overseeing strategic natural resource commodity exports

NEXT Indonesia Center Director Herry Gunawan has voiced support for PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) to oversee exports of strategic natural resource commodities, while stressing the need for a clear legal mandate. He noted that DSI has already monitored over 6,000 export transactions and identified potential additional state revenue of up to US$5 billion. Gunawan called for the assignment to be formalised through a government or presidential regulation.

President Orders Additional 1,500 Personnel and 6 Helicopters for Forest and Land Fires

President Prabowo Subianto has ordered the deployment of an additional 1,500 military personnel and six large-capacity helicopters to combat forest and land fires in West Kalimantan. The measures were announced following a coordination meeting at Supadio Air Force Base. The government will also expand weather modification operations to support firefighting efforts.