Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 25 August 2026

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10,684 coral seedlings planted to restore seas in Thousand Islands

The Jakarta provincial government has planted 10,684 coral seedlings across four islands in the Thousand Islands regency during 2026 as part of an expanded marine ecosystem restoration programme. The initiative aims to boost biodiversity, fisheries productivity, and marine tourism while supporting the livelihoods of coastal communities.

Thanks to Campus Emergency Training, 61 UMY KKN Students Survive NTT Earthquake

Sixty-one students from Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta undertaking community service in East Nusa Tenggara survived a magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck the region on Saturday. The students, divided into two groups in West and East Manggarai, evacuated to higher ground with local residents following tsunami warnings. Their safety is attributed to emergency preparedness training provided by the university.

WinX and Reku Explore Use of AI Robo Advisor for Digital Financial Asset Trading

WinX and Reku have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore the use of AI Robo Advisor technology within Indonesia's digital financial asset trading ecosystem. The collaboration aims to help crypto investors conduct analysis and trading activities, including on derivative products, in a more measured way. Indonesia's crypto investor base reached 22.69 million in June 2026, with transaction values rising 24.2 percent month-on-month.

Muhammadiyah Urges Congregants to Donate Friday Prayer Alms for NTT Earthquake Victims

Muhammadiyah's central leadership has issued an edict calling on its members and the wider public to donate Friday prayer alms for victims of the Flores earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The collection, scheduled for 21 August 2026, will be coordinated through Lazismu and the Disaster Resilience Institute. The initiative reflects the organisation's commitment to a unified humanitarian response under the 'One Muhammadiyah One Response' framework.

AHU Festival offers legal administration consultations for the public

The Directorate General of General Legal Administration (Ditjen AHU) is holding a three-day festival in Bandung to bring legal administration services closer to the public. The event offers consultations, digital service simulations, and on-site processing for eligible services, alongside discussions on four draft laws. The initiative aims to transform how citizens interact with the bureaucracy by making services more accessible and understandable.

BNPP Joins National Korpri MTQ VIII/2026 in South Sulawesi with Spirit of Solidarity

Indonesia's National Border Management Agency (BNPP) is participating in the National Civil Service Corps (Korpri) Quran Recitation Competition (MTQ) VIII/2026 in Makassar and Pangkajene and Islands Regency, South Sulawesi. The agency has fielded four participants across dakwah, surah memorisation, scientific writing, and calligraphy categories. BNPP officials emphasised that the event serves not only to pursue achievement but also to strengthen fellowship and build integrity among civil servants.

Fighting the Dry Season, Gowa Farmers Rely on Boreholes to Keep Rice Fields Productive

Farmers in Gowa Regency, South Sulawesi, are using government-provided boreholes to irrigate their rice fields during the dry season. The South Sulawesi provincial government distributed the boreholes to farmer groups to support irrigation of around 40 hectares of paddy fields in Pallangga. The initiative aims to maintain agricultural productivity and strengthen food security in the region.

DIY Social Agency Ensures Poor Residents Whose Desil Ranking Rose Sharply Won't Immediately Lose Social Assistance

The Yogyakarta Special Region Social Agency has assured residents that changes in their desil ranking within the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) will not automatically result in the termination of their social assistance. The agency acknowledges that some residents have experienced significant desil increases despite no real change in their economic conditions. Internal discussions are underway to develop a mechanism ensuring that families whose factual circumstances still warrant support continue to receive benefits.

ANTARA chief: Aceh Tsunami Museum a reminder of disaster preparedness

The head of Indonesia's national news agency ANTARA has highlighted the Aceh Tsunami Museum as a vital reminder of the need for disaster preparedness in a country located on the Pacific Ring of Fire. Benny Siga Butarbutar stressed the importance of learning from nature and building mitigation systems, including information ecosystems and earthquake-resistant infrastructure. He also pointed to local wisdom such as the Smong oral tradition in Simeulue as an example of effective community-based early warning.

Many Yogyakarta Residents Jump from Decile 1 to Decile 10, BPS DIY Acknowledges Possible Data Errors

The Central Statistics Agency (BPS) of Yogyakarta has acknowledged potential errors in the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) after reports that some residents jumped from the lowest welfare decile to the highest, disqualifying them from social assistance. The agency explained that the data is compiled using the Proxy Means Test method and around 40 indicators, with human involvement making inclusion and exclusion errors possible. BPS emphasised the need for public participation and verification to improve data quality.

Police name two suspects after student assault video goes viral

Police in Bener Meriah, Aceh, have named two high school students as suspects in the alleged assault of a fellow student after a video of the incident circulated widely on social media. The suspects, aged 17 and 16, are being processed under Indonesia's juvenile justice and child protection laws. The victim remains hospitalised with injuries sustained in the attack.

Kiai Marsudi enters PBNU chairman candidate race, says Citra Institute researcher

A political observer from Citra Institute says the emergence of around nine candidates for the leadership of Nahdlatul Ulama reflects healthy internal dynamics ahead of the organisation's congress. He highlights KH Marsudi Syuhud as a potential dark horse, citing his flexibility across factions and extensive international diplomatic experience.

Subak Penaban Irrigation Channel Damaged, Pandu Urges Immediate Repair

The irrigation channel of Subak Penaban in Karangasem has suffered damage stretching hundreds of metres, prompting Deputy Regent Pandu Prapanca Lagosa to call for urgent repairs. The local agriculture agency has proposed the site for funding under the 2026 Tertiary Irrigation Network Maintenance programme, with an estimated budget of Rp100 million. Officials say the repairs are vital for securing water supply, boosting agricultural production, and supporting national food self-sufficiency.

Stefano Lilipaly reveals reasons for joining Semen Padang

Indonesian international Stefano Lilipaly has explained his decision to join second-tier side Semen Padang, citing the club's ambition to win the Championship and secure promotion to Liga 1. The former Persija Jakarta, Bali United, Borneo FC, and Dewa United player believes the squad, which includes other ex-national team members, can achieve the title. Semen Padang begin their Championship 2026/27 campaign on 13 September against Persiraja Banda Aceh.

Man's Body Found in Pile of Wood in Bekasi, 100% Burned

A man's body was discovered behind a pile of burning wood at a timber waste depot in Tambun Selatan, Bekasi, West Java. Police have not yet determined the cause of death or identified the victim. Authorities are urging residents who may be missing a male relative to come forward.

Aceh government asks central government to accelerate infrastructure recovery in Gayo Lues

The Aceh provincial government has urged the Ministry of Public Works to speed up permanent repairs to roads and bridges damaged by hydrometeorological disasters in Gayo Lues Regency. The request follows two visits by Vice President Gibran Rakabuming, who instructed local authorities to submit urgent needs to the central government. Priority projects include several bridges and a 10.7-kilometre road section deemed vital for restoring connectivity and economic activity.

Students in Melbourne prepare festival as contribution to Indonesia

Indonesian students in Melbourne, members of the LPDP scholarship alumni organisation Mata Garuda, are organising the Garuda Contribution Fest to develop solutions for problems facing Indonesia. The event includes an Ideathon competition with around 40 participants, mentorship, and judging by academics and entrepreneurs. The organisation also runs programmes to prepare Indonesian graduates abroad for their return home, addressing challenges such as reverse culture shock.

Prophet Muhammad's Birthday in Pidie: Hundreds of Orphans and the Poor Receive Aid

Hundreds of orphans and underprivileged residents in Pidie, Aceh, received cash assistance and sarongs during a commemoration of the Prophet Muhammad's birthday. The aid, sourced from local entrepreneurs, migrants, and residents, is intended to support children's education and daily needs. The event also featured a traditional kenduri feast, which local officials say strengthens social bonds and community solidarity.

Reduced Visibility: Haze Affects Flights at Sultan Thaha Airport Jambi

Haze from forest and land fires in Jambi Province has disrupted flight operations at Sultan Thaha Airport, with visibility dropping to as low as 800 metres on Tuesday afternoon. Two incoming flights were diverted to Batam and Palembang as a result. Airport authorities have urged passengers to monitor flight information as visibility conditions remain changeable.

Vacant Land in Kebon Jeruk Catches Fire, Allegedly Due to Children Burning Rubbish

A vacant plot on Jalan Arjuna in Kebon Jeruk, West Jakarta, caught fire on Tuesday evening, allegedly after children burned rubbish at the site. Four fire engines were deployed and the blaze was extinguished quickly, with no casualties or damage to buildings reported.

403 police personnel to raise awareness on preventing wildfires

Indonesia's National Police Institute is deploying 403 personnel to conduct public education campaigns aimed at preventing wildfires in fire-prone provinces such as Kalimantan and Sumatra. The initiative follows instructions from President Prabowo Subianto and the National Police Chief to intensify community engagement on wildfire causes, impacts, and prevention. The effort is part of broader integrated measures to protect public health and local economies from the effects of fires and transboundary haze.

Trump Threatens to Rename Lake Ontario to 'Lake America' Amid Trade War

US President Donald Trump has threatened to rename Lake Ontario to 'Lake America' as trade tensions with Canada escalate. The threat follows failed trade negotiations and the imposition of 50 percent tariffs on Canadian goods. Ontario Premier Doug Ford has responded by suggesting Canada raise prices on strategic natural resources exported to the US.

Jembrana customary leader welcomes solar power plant development in Bali

A customary leader in Jembrana, Bali, has expressed gratitude for the construction of a 300 MWp solar power plant in Gilimanuk, viewing it as a significant step towards national energy self-sufficiency. The project, which includes a 1,000 MWh battery storage system, is expected to boost the local economy and create jobs. He also urged the government to ensure development reaches remote areas across Indonesia.

Thousands of Muslims Attend Brebes Bersholawat to Commemorate Prophet Muhammad's Birthday

Thousands of Muslims gathered in Brebes Regency to commemorate the Prophet Muhammad's birthday with a large religious gathering and sholawat recitation. Brebes Regent Paramitha Widya Kusuma emphasised the importance of moral development alongside physical infrastructure, while preacher KH. Anwar Zahid urged attendees to embody the Prophet's character in daily life.

Lorry Overturns Near Railway Crossing in Serang, Two Injured

A lorry overturned near the Rangkasbitung-Merak railway line in Serang, Banten, after an accident on the Tangerang-Merak toll road. The vehicle's position temporarily disrupted train services, and two people were taken to hospital with injuries.

OJK pushes productive funding access amid surge in online lending

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) is urging online lending platforms to expand access to productive financing for MSMEs, with lending to the sector reaching Rp35.12 trillion by June 2026, up 23.25 percent year-on-year. The regulator emphasised that growth must be matched by improved financing quality and prudent risk management. Total online lending stood at Rp105.14 trillion, with a 90-day default rate of 4.26 percent.

Five Indonesian Crew Members from Sukabumi Stranded in Fiji, West Java Governor Moves Quickly to Repatriate Them

Five Indonesian crew members from Sukabumi, West Java, have been stranded in Fiji for nearly three weeks and have appealed to the Indonesian government for help. West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi responded swiftly by contacting the Indonesian Ambassador to Fiji and arranging for the crew's repatriation through their agent.

AI Can Predict Body's Response to Vaccines from Antibody Patterns in Blood

Researchers in the United States have used artificial intelligence to analyse antibody patterns in blood samples and predict how strongly individuals will respond to COVID-19 vaccination. The study, involving over 4,000 participants, identified 'sentinel antibodies' and other biomarkers that could help doctors tailor vaccination strategies for those with weaker immune systems.

Sorong City Government Calls on Residents to Strengthen Brotherhood and Harmony for Maulid Nabi 1448 H

The Sorong city government has urged residents to strengthen brotherhood, unity and harmony during the Maulid Nabi Muhammad SAW 1448 H commemoration. Deputy Mayor Anshar Karim emphasised that the occasion should serve as a moment to emulate the Prophet's values of honesty, trustworthiness, compassion and justice. The city government views social cohesion as essential for supporting regional development programmes.

Bogor City Government targets R3 road to reach Wangun and operate by 2029

The Bogor City Government aims to complete the Regional Ring Road (R3) connection to the Wangun area by 2029 to help alleviate congestion in the city centre. Mayor Dedie A. Rachim stated that the project is part of connectivity development and will open access to eastern Bogor. The road will also include pedestrian facilities as part of equitable infrastructure provision.

Bali provincial government prepares non-productive state land to support 1,000 MWp solar power plant

The Bali provincial government is supporting the development of solar power plants by providing non-productive state land, with sites identified in Jembrana, Buleleng and Karangasem. Governor Wayan Koster said the initiative aligns with Bali's clean energy regulations and aims to reduce reliance on imported fuel. PLN will combine the solar infrastructure with battery energy storage systems to ensure stable 24-hour electricity supply.

Magnitude 5.0 Earthquake Shakes Flores Tonight, Residents Panic and Flee Homes

A magnitude 5.0 aftershock struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, on Tuesday night, causing residents in West Manggarai to flee their homes in panic. The tremor follows the devastating magnitude 7.7 earthquake on 15 August, with the death toll now standing at 103 people. Many residents had only just returned from emergency shelters when the latest aftershock hit.

Indonesia and Norway strengthen ties through music and diplomacy

Indonesia's ambassador to Norway and Iceland, Teuku Faizasyah, highlighted the parallels between music and diplomacy during an Indonesian Cultural Night in Oslo, emphasising the importance of listening and finding harmony amid global tensions. Norwegian State Secretary Kristofer André Hansen praised Indonesia's progress on deforestation and reaffirmed the strong bilateral partnership spanning climate, trade, and human rights. The event, part of Indonesia's 81st independence anniversary celebrations, brought together around 200 guests from diplomatic, government, business, and diaspora communities.

Drought Drives Troop of Monkeys from Forest Park into Bandung Residential Areas in Search of Food

A troop of long-tailed macaques has descended from the Ir H Djuanda Forest Park into residential areas of Bandung, including the Dago-Lembang alternative road, in search of food during the dry season. Park management confirmed the presence of a colony near the PPR ITB Buniwangi complex and said previous attempts to trap and reduce the monkey population had failed. The monkeys' home range is estimated at 3-5 hectares per colony, with each colony numbering 25-40 individuals.

Naval Chief: Aircraft carrier KRI Gajah Mada heading to Indonesian waters

Indonesia's first aircraft carrier, the former Italian Navy vessel ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi, has departed Italy for Jakarta under an intergovernmental grant scheme. The ship is expected to arrive in Indonesia between 15 and 20 September, with a formal flag-changing ceremony planned for 25 September 2026, likely attended by President Prabowo Subianto. The vessel will be renamed KRI Gajah Mada and is scheduled to make its debut at the TNI's 81st anniversary celebrations in October 2026.

Directorate General of AHU to Hold Impactful AHU Service Festival in Bandung

The Directorate General of General Legal Administration (Ditjen AHU) will hold a three-day service festival in Bandung from 29–31 August 2026 to bring legal administration services closer to the public. The event will offer consultations, digital service simulations, on-the-spot processing, and policy discussions on four draft laws. Director General Widodo said the festival aims to make legal administration services more modern, responsive, and accessible.

Prophet Muhammad's Birthday a Momentum to Emulate the Prophet's Morals in Filling Independence

A senior adviser to the Indonesian Islamic Union (PUI) has called for the Prophet Muhammad's birthday commemoration to be used as a moment for moral reflection and strengthening national spirit. Achmad Tjachja Nugraha emphasised that independence must be filled with character building, honesty, and environmental stewardship. He also urged Indonesians to maintain unity amid diversity, following the Prophet's example of justice and brotherhood.

Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore reaffirm commitment to keep Malacca and Singapore straits safe and open

Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore have reaffirmed their commitment to keeping the Straits of Malacca and Singapore free, open and safe for international shipping under UNCLOS. The three countries stressed the importance of navigational rights and cooperation among stakeholders to protect the marine environment and maintain safety on one of the world's most important shipping routes. The forum also discussed new technologies, alternative fuels, and joint procedures for responding to cargo fires and ships in distress.

Fugitive for four years, child rape convict arrested in Aceh Besar

A child rape convict who had been on the run since escaping a juvenile detention centre in 2022 has been arrested in Aceh Besar. The man, identified as MY, was apprehended by the Aceh High Prosecutor's Office fugitive task force after resisting arrest and attempting to flee. Prosecutors emphasised that no fugitive has a safe place and urged all wanted persons to surrender.

Ambassador Ngurah: Indonesia Festival strengthens RI-Swiss friendship

The Indonesia Festival 2026 in Rheinfelden, Switzerland, served as a platform to deepen people-to-people ties and mark 75 years of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Switzerland. Ambassador Ngurah Swajaya highlighted culture, cuisine, music, and art as bridges for mutual understanding and friendship. The event also carried a humanitarian message, raising funds for education in Sumatra and Aceh and for disaster victims in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara.

South Sulawesi BPBD records 112 forest and land fires throughout 2026

The South Sulawesi Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has recorded 112 forest and land fires from January to August 2026, burning a total of 1,613.67 hectares. Enrekang Regency was the worst affected, with over 1,000 hectares burned. The agency has urged the public to avoid open burning as the dry season peaks and fire risk intensifies.

Government prepares presidential regulation for 100 GWp solar power plants

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is drafting a presidential regulation to underpin the development of 100 gigawatt peak of solar power capacity. The regulation will serve as the legal foundation for the programme, while state utility PLN has proposed revisions to the 2025–2034 electricity procurement plan to include additional solar and battery storage capacity. Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has said the government may finance projects through Danantara if private developers do not offer competitive tariffs.

Transmigration Shift Aims to Build Productive Economic Hubs Across Indonesia

Indonesia's Ministry of Transmigration is repositioning transmigration areas as centres of economic growth, prioritising job creation, market access, and investment before population relocation. The strategy, supported by five flagship programmes, aims to develop full industry ecosystems rather than relying on raw commodity exports. Minister Iftitah Sulaiman Suryanagara stressed that economic opportunities must precede voluntary mobility to ensure local communities become primary beneficiaries of regional development.

Rumoured to Move to PSI, KDM: Lies, I Am Deputy Chairman of Gerindra's Board of Trustees

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has dismissed rumours that he is planning to defect to the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI). He described the speculation as strange and untrue, reaffirming his current position as Deputy Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Gerindra Party.

Telkom strengthens earthquake impact mitigation in NTT

State-owned telecommunications firm PT Telkom Indonesia has reinforced its disaster mitigation measures in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, by adding alternative power sources to reduce risks from earthquakes. Connectivity and telecommunications services in the region were fully restored within three days of the first quake on 15 August 2025. The company has also provided free internet access at evacuation posts and distributed humanitarian aid across five affected areas.

Death Toll from M 7.7 Earthquake in NTT Rises to 103

The death toll from the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Nusa Tenggara Timur has risen to 103, with over 1,600 injured and more than 185,000 people displaced. Aftershocks continue to be felt, with BMKG recording over 7,000 tremors since the main quake, prompting ongoing evacuations.

China Undeterred by US Threats

China has declared that its cooperation with Iran is conducted within the framework of international law and will not be disrupted, including by the United States. The statement follows Washington's launch of 'Operation Economic Outcast', which threatens secondary sanctions against any country doing business with Iran. Beijing reiterated its firm opposition to unilateral sanctions and called for de-escalation and a return to dialogue.

Economist: Indonesia's opportunity in global halal market needs trade cooperation support

An economist from Indef has urged Indonesia to leverage international trade agreements, strengthen halal certification, and boost industrial capacity to become a major player in the global halal supply chain. He highlighted Malaysia's more aggressive approach in attracting foreign direct investment for halal manufacturing despite its smaller population. The head of BPJPH also emphasised the need to consider the competitiveness of small businesses and the broader economic contribution of the halal ecosystem, which he estimated at around 27 percent of GDP.

Gus Yahya Highlights Challenges Facing NU Ahead of 35th Congress

Nahdlatul Ulama chairman Gus Yahya has outlined key challenges facing Indonesia's largest Islamic organisation ahead of its 35th Congress in Jombang. He identified shifting NU identity, organisational consolidation, the group's position in national politics, and its global role as critical issues. Gus Yahya noted that the social and cultural boundaries defining NU membership have become increasingly fluid compared to earlier generations.

Police Reveal Manifest of Burned KM Mutiara Sentosa Suspected to Be Inaccurate

Police investigating the fire aboard KMP Mutiara Sentosa II off the coast of Sumenep, Madura, have found discrepancies between the passenger manifest and the number of people actually evacuated. Investigators also noted a tendency among parties to shift responsibility for the incident. The focus is now on determining who is most accountable for the disaster.