Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 25 August 2026

Showing 551-600 of 1,030 articles

Brimob Patrol in East Jakarta, Seize 2 Motorcycles from Youths Without Complete Documents

A joint patrol by Brimob and East Jakarta Police seized two motorcycles from youths found without complete documentation during an early morning operation in Pulogadung. The patrol was part of enhanced routine activities aimed at preventing crime and maintaining public order. Police urged residents to carry proper vehicle documents and for parents to supervise their children during vulnerable hours.

Agricultural Waste Utilisation as Renewable Energy Source Continues to Be Strengthened

PT PLN Energi Primer Indonesia is intensifying efforts to convert agricultural waste and residues into biomass for power generation, integrating the agricultural and energy sectors into a single value chain. The initiative has been recognised with the FSII Innovation Award 2026 for its leadership in accelerating biomass development to support the national energy transition. The programme aims to create a circular economy, provide new income streams for farmers, and contribute to Indonesia's Net Zero Emissions target.

Police Arrest Underwear Thief in Tabanan, Victim Forgives Him

Police in Tabanan, Bali, have arrested a 20-year-old man identified as MIF for stealing women's underwear from a house in Dauh Peken village. The suspect admitted to the theft, which was captured on CCTV and went viral on social media, saying he acted to satisfy his lust. Following mediation at the Tabanan police station, the victim accepted his apology and both parties agreed to settle the matter amicably.

Organisers say network security is key to robot competition

Organisers of the World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing have highlighted network and information security as critical to the event's success. China Unicom is providing dedicated 5G network slices to ensure stable robot communications, while Huawei sees networks becoming essential infrastructure for the AI era. Huawei also noted its deepening 5G cooperation with Indonesian operators Telkomsel, Indosat and XL.

East Manggarai Deputy Regent: No Pressure in Earthquake Aid Distribution

The East Manggarai Regency Government has denied allegations that the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) pressured a district head during the distribution of earthquake relief supplies. Deputy Regent Tarsisius Sjukur said an internal review found no coercion in the signing of handover documents, and BNPB officials emphasised that aid distribution followed established coordination mechanisms.

Government Once Taxed Urine, Beards and Heads: Violators Were Imprisoned

Throughout history, governments have imposed taxes on unusual objects, including urine, beards, heads and fingernails. In ancient Rome, urine was taxed because of its ammonia content, while in Russia Peter the Great levied a beard tax to encourage Westernisation. In colonial Batavia, Chinese residents were subject to head and nail taxes, with non-payment punishable by imprisonment and fines.

Bringing Skills Home from Taiwan, BRI Peduli Helps Indonesian Migrant Workers Level Up as Entrepreneurs

State-owned bank BRI, through its CSR arm BRI Peduli, has launched an entrepreneurship academy for Indonesian migrant workers in Taiwan, offering practical training in culinary arts and beauty skills. The programme aims to equip participants with marketable skills and business knowledge to build sustainable livelihoods upon returning to Indonesia. BRI says the initiative is part of a broader roadmap to help diaspora workers convert remittances into productive assets and enterprises.

Pakistan holds productive dialogue with Iran over conflict with US

Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Army Chief Asim Munir met with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to discuss resolving the Iran-US conflict and reviving the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding. Pakistan expressed hope that progress in the talks could pave the way for lasting peace in the region. The meeting comes amid ongoing tensions between Tehran and Washington, with the US applying economic pressure on Iran.

UNM Discusses WhatsApp Apprenticeship, Opens Opportunities for Students to Enter Industry via IEP 3+1

Universitas Nusa Mandiri (UNM) is exploring an apprenticeship partnership with WhatsApp to give students practical industry experience in fields such as supply chain management, human resources, and business development. The initiative aligns with UNM's Internship Experience Program (IEP) 3+1, which allows students to study for three years and spend one year interning in industry. Both parties will now coordinate on position requirements, selection mechanisms, and cooperation documents.

Six Months of US-Iran War: 20 Killed in 68 Incidents in the Strait of Hormuz

The International Maritime Organization has recorded 68 incidents in the Strait of Hormuz since the US and Israel attacked Iran in late February, resulting in 20 deaths and 30 injuries. Around half of the incidents involved oil tankers, with Liberian-flagged vessels the most affected. Iran, which hopes to retain control of the strait after the war and impose passage fees, has warned ships against using alternative routes.

OJK Investigates Transaction Hold on AMPB Coordinator Supriyono's Account

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) is investigating the temporary hold placed on the bank account of Supriyono, coordinator of the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB), to ensure compliance with banking regulations. The account, containing Rp80.9 million, was subject to a five-day transaction suspension requested by Jakarta Metropolitan Police investigators under anti-money laundering laws. OJK has pledged to take firm supervisory action if any violations are found and to ensure the customer's access is restored after the evaluation period.

Highlighting Febrie Adriansyah Case, Observer: There Should Be an Examination of the Suspect Candidate First

A legal observer from the Islamic University of Indonesia has questioned the procedure used to name former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah as a corruption and money laundering suspect. Wahyu Priyanka Nata Permana argues that examining a suspect candidate before naming them is important to uphold due process and avoid unfair prejudice. He suggests that failure to follow proper procedure could render the suspect designation invalid if challenged through a pretrial motion.

Dedi Mulyadi Denies Rumour of Moving from Gerindra to PSI

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has dismissed speculation that he is planning to leave the Gerindra Party for the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI). The former Purwakarta regent described the rumour as sudden and unfounded, reaffirming his current position as deputy chairman of Gerindra's Board of Trustees. A senior Gerindra official in West Java also confirmed that no such move had ever been part of Dedi's plans.

Observer: NU Must Keep Its Distance from Ruling Groups

Political observer Ujang Komarudin has urged Nahdlatul Ulama to maintain its independence as Indonesia's largest socio-religious organisation and avoid being co-opted by political power. He argued that NU's strategic position means its organisational conduct significantly affects national stability, and called for a 'New NU' movement focused on social, economic and religious empowerment. The remarks come ahead of the 35th NU Congress scheduled for late August 2026 in Jombang.

House of Representatives and East Kalimantan Provincial Government Optimise Upstream Oil and Gas Potential in Mahakam

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission XII and the East Kalimantan Provincial Government are working together to ensure the Mahakam Block's upstream oil and gas sector delivers optimal benefits for the region. The working visit focused on production oversight, efforts to boost national lifting capacity, and the realisation of a 10 percent participating interest for producing regions. Stakeholders also emphasised the importance of regulatory certainty for the distribution of oil and gas revenue-sharing funds.

House Commission III Chairman Says Asset Forfeiture Bill Targeted for Enactment in December This Year

House of Representatives Commission III is accelerating deliberation of the Asset Forfeiture Bill, with a target for enactment by the December 2026 plenary session. Chairman Habiburokhman said only about eight effective sitting weeks remain after recess periods. Public consultation has been extensive, with most respondents supporting the bill while urging careful drafting to prevent abuse of power by law enforcement.

Supporting the Halal Industry, Ministry of Industry Encourages Metal SMEs to Supply Slaughtering Equipment for Abattoirs

Indonesia's Ministry of Industry is fostering partnerships between metal small and medium enterprises and abattoirs to expand market access and strengthen the halal industry ecosystem. The initiative includes product development assistance and collaboration with industry associations to align SME output with abattoir requirements. With over 1,600 abattoirs nationwide, the programme aims to position local manufacturers as primary suppliers for the domestic market.

Blora Police Detain Three Suspects in Police Assault at Independence Day Carnival

Police in Blora, Central Java, have named and detained three suspects following the assault of two officers during an Independence Day carnival. The incident occurred as officers attempted to break up a brawl between residents of two hamlets in Ngawen district. The suspects face ongoing legal proceedings as police continue to investigate possible additional perpetrators.

Drought Hits 96 Percent of Regions in West Java

Drought and clean water shortages have spread across 26 of West Java's 27 regencies and cities, affecting over 588,000 residents in 189 villages. The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) and partner institutions have distributed more than 13 million litres of clean water to affected communities. Officials are urging residents to conserve water as the dry season is expected to continue.

Coalition of the Willing vows to strengthen Ukraine's air defence

Members of the Coalition of the Willing have pledged to increase military support for Ukraine, with air defence systems identified as an urgent priority. The commitment was made following a meeting in Kyiv attended by Ukrainian leaders and joined remotely by French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Russia maintains that arms supplies to Ukraine hinder conflict resolution and directly involve NATO countries in the war.

LPDB Strengthens Cooperative Role Through Revolving Fund Distribution and Mentoring

The Revolving Fund Management Institution (LPDB) for Cooperatives is highlighting the success of KSPPS BMT Tunas Harapan Syantara in East Lombok as a model for sustainable business ecosystems. Supported by LPDB financing and mentoring, the sharia cooperative has built a closed-loop ecosystem connecting fish farmers, feed distributors, and collectors, while also expanding its assets from Rp10 billion to Rp18 billion. The initiative demonstrates how revolving funds can deliver broader economic impact when managed by cooperatives with sound governance and innovative service models.

Umroh Platform Partners with BPKH Limited to Strengthen Digital Hajj and Umroh Ecosystem

Indonesian umroh platform Umrohin has signed a memorandum of understanding with BPKH Limited, a Makkah-based subsidiary of the Hajj Financial Management Agency, to build an integrated digital ecosystem for hajj and umroh services. The collaboration aims to improve connectivity between Indonesian industry players and Saudi service providers, covering transport, logistics, and digital innovation. The agreement is an initial understanding, with binding commercial terms to be detailed in a subsequent cooperation agreement.

Cassa aircraft skids off runway at Hasanuddin Airport on Tuesday afternoon

A Cassa aircraft, believed to belong to the Indonesian military, skidded off the runway at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Maros, South Sulawesi. Airport officials confirmed the incident and said personnel were handling the situation. This marks the second runway incident in two days, following a Sukhoi fighter jet skidding off a different runway the previous day.

Deputy Minister encourages wellness as new opportunity for economic growth

Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar has highlighted wellness as a promising growth area for Indonesia's creative economy, citing rising health-conscious lifestyles and the potential of local products such as jamu. She made the remarks in connection with the Festival Merah Putih, which showcases creative subsectors through the pillars of 'Raga', 'Rasa', and 'Raya'. The festival is intended to strengthen the local creative ecosystem and engage younger generations.

Fire in Duren Sawit Destroys 40 Buildings, 84 People Affected

A major fire swept through a residential area on Jalan Pendidikan Raya VI in Duren Sawit, East Jakarta, destroying at least 40 buildings and leaving 84 people homeless. The blaze, which occurred on Tuesday morning, is believed to have started in an empty house, with witnesses noting that the semi-permanent structures and a habit of burning rubbish in the area contributed to the rapid spread. No fatalities were reported, and fire crews remained on site to cool the area and prevent further spread.

Nusa Mandiri University's 3+1 Internship Programme: Three Years of Study, Direct Industry Absorption

Universitas Nusa Mandiri has introduced an Internship Experience Programme (IEP) 3+1, allowing students to complete three years of academic study followed by one year of professional internship. The programme is supported by more than 300 partner companies, both national and multinational. The university aims to equip graduates with practical skills, professional networks, and industry experience to improve their employability.

Six Companies in Kalimantan Sanctioned by Forestry Ministry over Repeated Forest and Land Fires

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry has imposed administrative sanctions on six forest utilisation permit holders in Kalimantan after repeated forest and land fires were detected in their concession areas, with total burned land reaching 1,511.55 hectares. The companies are required to improve their fire control systems and restore affected areas, including hydrological rehabilitation on peatlands. The sanctions range from government coercion orders to suspension of business permits.

OJK Steps In to Investigate Delay of Rp80.9 Million Account Transaction of AMPB's Supriyono

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) is investigating the delayed transaction of a bank account belonging to Supriyono, coordinator of the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB), which holds Rp80.9 million. The regulator is verifying whether the bank's actions complied with anti-money laundering regulations and has pledged supervisory measures if violations are found. OJK is also coordinating with the bank to resolve the matter and restore account access once the review is complete.

Residents hold various traditions to commemorate Prophet Muhammad's birthday across Indonesia

Communities across Indonesia marked Maulid Nabi Muhammad SAW 1448 Hijriah with distinctive local traditions on Tuesday. In Madiun, East Java, around 1,000 participants joined the Grebeg Maulid procession carrying Gunungan Jaler and Gunungan Estri filled with produce and traditional cakes. Meanwhile, Tangerang in Banten continued its Ngarak Perahu tradition dating back to 1939, and Bogor in West Java held a dongdang parade as an expression of gratitude and devotion.

Police Clarify AMPB Account Transaction Suspension Lasts Only Five Working Days

Polda Metro Jaya has clarified that the suspension of transactions on accounts used by the Aliansi Masyarakat Pati Bersatu (AMPB) is limited to five working days and does not constitute seizure or freezing. The police emphasised that funds remain safe and will be fully accessible to the account holder once the suspension period ends. Investigators are coordinating with the OJK and Ministry of Social Affairs to examine the purpose of the fundraising.

Two Assailants in Karangasem Beating Named as Suspects

Police in Manggis, Karangasem, have named two of three individuals as suspects in the beating of a young man that went viral on social media. The suspects face charges under Article 262 paragraph (2) of the Criminal Code, carrying a maximum sentence of seven years. A third person was released after being deemed only a witness.

The Charm of Tabebuya Flowers: A Japanese Spring Sensation in Indonesian Cities

Tabebuya trees are blooming across several major Indonesian cities, creating scenery reminiscent of Japan's spring season. The flowering trees, which originate from Brazil, have appeared along major roads in Jakarta, Semarang, and Cianjur. Local authorities note that tabebuya is often mistaken for sakura due to its similar appearance when in bloom.

BPBD: Rain in Kulawi and Pipikoro reduces forest fire potential in Sigi

The Sigi Regency Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has reported that rainfall in the Kulawi, South Kulawi, and Pipikoro districts is helping to reduce the risk of forest and land fires. No fire incidents have been recorded in these areas during the current dry season and El Niño phenomenon. However, several other districts in Sigi remain exposed to extreme heat.

Geely recalls over 74,000 Lynk & Co cars due to LiDAR issues

Geely is recalling 74,037 Lynk & Co vehicles in China due to potential defects in LiDAR sensing units that could compromise driver assistance safety features. The recall covers models produced between January and December 2025 and represents roughly half of the brand's total sales for those models during the year. The faulty LiDAR units were supplied by Robosense, a Geely partner whose products are also used in Zeekr and Galaxy vehicles.

Thailand targets 5 percent tourism revenue growth in 2027

The Tourism Authority of Thailand has unveiled its 2027 marketing plan, aiming for at least 5 percent growth in tourism revenue and a 60:40 visitor distribution between primary and secondary cities. The strategy shifts focus from visitor numbers to quality, value, and long-term competitiveness under the theme 'The Year of Transformation'. The government also plans to form a joint public-private committee to develop Thailand as a year-round destination.

Indonesian Navy Aircraft Skids Off Runway at Hasanuddin Airport Makassar

An Indonesian Navy Cassa aircraft skidded off the runway at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Maros, South Sulawesi, on Tuesday. Airport authorities confirmed the incident occurred on runway 03-21 and said operations continued normally using the east-west runway. This marks the second military aircraft incident at the airport in two days, following a Sukhoi fighter jet skidding off the runway on Monday.

Vela Prima Nusantara Unveils Full-Scale Alpha Prototype Aircraft

PT Vela Prima Nusantara has unveiled the full-scale prototype of its Alpha aircraft at Heli Expo Asia 2026 in Jakarta, positioning Indonesia as a pioneer in Advanced Air Mobility manufacturing in Southeast Asia. The company has secured 160 Letters of Intent and signed a memorandum of understanding with Whitesky Aviation for 50 units. Vela Aero targets a maiden flight in Q4 2026 and Design Organization Approval Class D certification by the end of the year, with entry into service planned for early 2029.

Junior High School Student in Pemalang Dies After Alleged Bullying at School, Police Name Child in Conflict with the Law

A Year 7 student in Pemalang, Central Java, has died after allegedly being subjected to violence on four separate occasions at his school since July 2026. Police have named a Year 8 student at the same school as a child in conflict with the law (ABH). The case is being handled under Indonesia's juvenile justice system, with the suspect facing charges under the Child Protection Law.

Houthi group claims attack on oil tanker in Red Sea

Yemen's Houthi movement has claimed responsibility for a ballistic missile strike on a Saudi-owned oil tanker in the Red Sea off the port of Yanbu. The group also reported separate attacks on a Saudi military convoy and troop concentrations near the border. The claims come amid an escalating campaign of maritime and cross-border strikes linked to the Houthi-imposed blockade on Saudi-affiliated shipping.

Fire destroys 40 buildings in Duren Sawit, East Jakarta

A fire in a residential area of Duren Sawit, East Jakarta, destroyed 40 buildings, including 39 semi-permanent structures and one permanent house. No fatalities were reported, but around 84 residents have been affected. Authorities noted that illegal waste burning had occurred several times in the area previously.

Yogyakarta city government says 30 Merah Putih cooperatives are already transacting

The Yogyakarta city government reports that 30 of the 45 Merah Putih cooperatives in the city have begun business transactions, representing 70 per cent operational readiness. The remaining 15 cooperatives have established governance structures but have yet to determine their business activities. The government plans to provide mentoring and help develop business plans tailored to each kelurahan's local potential.

Central Java Ready to Welcome National MTQ Delegations, Preparations Reach 90%

Preparations for the 31st National Musabaqah Tilawatil Quran (MTQ) in Central Java have reached 90 percent, with venues, accommodation, transport, security and health services being finalised. The event, scheduled for 12–19 September 2026 in Semarang, is expected to attract thousands of participants and visitors. The provincial government is also leveraging the event to promote Muslim-friendly tourism and boost the local economy through MSME involvement.

Motive in Munil's Fatal Beating in Bantul Suspected to Be Perpetrators' Intoxication

Police in Bantul have examined three suspects in the fatal beating of Triyanto, also known as Munil, and preliminary findings suggest the perpetrators were under the influence of alcohol. One suspect remains at large as investigators continue to determine the exact motive behind the attack. The victim was found dead with multiple injuries in Pringading, Guwosari, Pajangan.

Iranian rial plunges to record low as US prepares new sanctions

The Iranian rial has fallen to a record low of 2.02 million per US dollar on the open market, hours before Washington announced a fresh wave of sanctions aimed at further isolating Tehran. The currency has been under sustained pressure since the joint US-Israeli strikes in late February, with the nearly six-month conflict increasingly weighing on Iran's economy. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned of an 'Economic D-Day' for Iran, targeting five key sectors including digital assets, technology, gold, aviation, and shipping.

Prabowo Visits Bali, Police Implement Traffic Management

President Prabowo Subianto is visiting Bali to attend the launch and groundbreaking of a solar power plant project in Gilimanuk, Jembrana. The Bali Regional Police have prepared traffic management measures and deployed hundreds of personnel to secure the presidential entourage. Security is being coordinated with the Presidential Security Force and the Indonesian National Armed Forces.

27 August Demonstration Will Not Automatically Weaken Rupiah and JCI

Market participants are unlikely to react strongly to the planned 27 August protest unless it escalates into violence or major disruption, according to an economist. Attention remains focused on external factors such as the US dollar, global sentiment, and capital flows rather than the demonstration itself.

Government quality, capability set successful nations apart in a contested world: Chan Chun Sing

Singapore's Coordinating Minister for Public Services Chan Chun Sing emphasised that government quality and capability will increasingly determine national success amid a weakening rules-based international order. Speaking at the inaugural Singapore-Vietnam Strategic Dialogue, he highlighted the importance of policy consistency, public trust, and leadership development for economic competitiveness and social cohesion. The dialogue also saw both countries sign agreements on executive education and technology connectivity, deepening their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

Gerindra Unaffected by Talk of Early 2029 Election: Focus on Safeguarding Government Programmes

Gerindra Party spokesman Sugiat Santoso has dismissed speculation about an early 2029 general election raised by Projo chairman Budi Arie Setiadi. Sugiat said the party is focused on supporting President Prabowo Subianto's programmes and considers any discussion of the 2029 election premature. Budi Arie had earlier suggested his political instinct pointed to a possible acceleration of the electoral timetable.

Prabowo orders permits to be revoked for firms linked to Indonesia forest fires

President Prabowo Subianto has ordered the revocation of business permits for any corporation suspected of involvement in forest and land burning, as fires across Sumatra and Kalimantan have burned approximately 85,000 hectares and caused transboundary haze in Malaysia and Singapore. He also directed authorities to respond immediately to emerging hotspots, construct boreholes in fire-prone areas, and strengthen public education to prevent deliberate burning. The government is deploying satellite monitoring, water bombing helicopters, and weather modification operations to combat the fires.

Beware of Drained Accounts! ToxicPanda Can Turn Transparent to Steal PINs

A new version of the ToxicPanda Android banking malware has been discovered with significantly expanded capabilities, now targeting over 140 banking and crypto apps across 16 countries. The malware uses Android accessibility services and transparent overlays to steal PINs and credentials, and can even change a device's lock screen password. Researchers warn that attackers are now using Amazon AWS cloud infrastructure to distribute the malware.