Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 25 August 2026

Showing 651-700 of 1,030 articles

30 MBG kitchens in remote areas of Batam completed, awaiting central government directive

Thirty of 35 planned nutrition fulfilment service unit (SPPG) kitchens in remote areas of Batam have been completed, though none are yet operational pending central government instruction. The programme prioritises hinterland areas such as Galang, Bulang and Belakang Padang, with several sites expected to serve hundreds of beneficiaries each. Across the Riau Islands, 164 remote-area SPPG kitchens are planned.

Sago and Purple Sweet Potato Turned into Chicken Meat Freshness Indicator

Five students from Universitas Gadjah Mada have developed an edible film indicator called Seftin that detects chicken meat freshness through colour changes. The innovation uses sago starch and anthocyanin extract from purple sweet potato to respond to pH changes on the meat's surface. The team hopes the product will become an affordable commercial standard for objective meat freshness monitoring in Indonesia.

Health Minister BGS Enters Race for WHO Director-General to Succeed Tedros

Indonesian Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has been nominated as a candidate for Director-General of the World Health Organization, competing against three other prospective candidates from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Belgium. Sadikin, who has served as health minister since late 2020, brings a background in banking and state-owned enterprises rather than medicine. The nomination marks a significant step for Indonesia's presence in global health governance.

UK Prepares Multinational Military Exercises for Ukraine

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has announced that a 'coalition of the willing' will soon conduct intensive military exercises in preparation for deploying multinational forces to Ukraine following a future ceasefire. The coalition's headquarters will move to London in the autumn to strengthen coordination. Moscow has reacted sharply, with Russian officials labelling the coalition 'warmongers' and warning that any NATO troop presence in Ukraine is unacceptable.

Forest Fires a Reminder of Islamic Law's Prohibition on Causing Destruction on Earth

Forest fires threatening the environment in Kalimantan serve as a reminder of humanity's duty to protect the earth, according to Islamic teachings. Scholars argue that environmental preservation is an integral part of safeguarding the faith, and that damaging the environment violates the trust placed in humans as stewards of creation. The article draws on the work of Sheikh Yusuf Al-Qaradhawi and Quranic verses to emphasise that environmental destruction is a deviation from the objectives of Islamic law.

232 Forest and Land Fires in Central Java, Up 700 Percent

Central Java has recorded a dramatic 700 percent increase in forest and land fires compared to the same period last year, with 232 incidents burning hundreds of hectares of vegetation and waste disposal infrastructure. The provincial disaster mitigation agency attributes the surge to the peak of the dry season and human negligence, particularly the burning of sugarcane residue. Estimated material losses have reached Rp23 billion across 35 regencies and municipalities.

DIY Regional Government Guarantees It Will Not Ignore Residents Whose Decile Data Misses Out on Social Assistance

The Yogyakarta Special Region administration has pledged not to overlook residents whose welfare decile rankings in the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) do not reflect their actual conditions, causing them to lose access to social assistance. The Social Affairs Office is exploring alternative schemes to ensure affected families continue receiving aid while deploying PKH facilitators for factual verification. Residents can also file appeals through the Cek Bansos website or app, or by visiting their local kelurahan.

Jakarta to Have an 18-Metre Deep Underground 'City', Here Is the Location

Jakarta is developing an Extended Concourse, a multi-function underground space near the Hotel Indonesia roundabout, at a depth of 18 metres. The Rp200 billion project faces significant engineering challenges due to discrepancies between as-built drawings and actual underground utility positions. Construction is targeted for completion next year, with coordination efforts underway to minimise disruption in the busy central Jakarta area.

Forestry Ministry Sanctions Six Companies over Forest and Land Fires in Kalimantan

The Ministry of Forestry has imposed administrative sanctions on six forest utilisation permit holders after fires were detected across 1,511.55 hectares of their concessions in West, Central and East Kalimantan. Five companies face government enforcement orders, while PT MPK received a heavier penalty of business permit suspension due to extensive and repeated fires. The ministry emphasised that permit holders bear responsibility for preventing and controlling fires, with criminal proceedings to follow where evidence of offences is found.

Prophet Muhammad's Birthday: Sidkon Djampi Urges Public to Preserve Peace and National Unity

West Java Regional Legislative Council (DPRD) member Sidkon Djampi has called on Indonesians to use the Prophet Muhammad's birthday as a moment to strengthen peace and national unity. The PKB politician emphasised that the Prophet's teachings on compassion, honesty, and wisdom remain relevant in managing Indonesia's diversity. He also urged families, schools, and communities to instil moral values and tolerance in the younger generation.

GIBEI FEB Unsil Opens Path for Students to Enter the Capital Market World

The Investment Gallery of the Indonesia Stock Exchange at Siliwangi University's Faculty of Economics and Business is strengthening capital market education through collaboration between academia and industry. Students not only learn theory but also gain practical experience by opening securities accounts and understanding the investment ecosystem. The initiative aims to bridge classroom learning with real-world practice in Indonesia's financial sector.

Two Ethiopian UN Peacekeepers Killed in Ambush in South Sudan

Two Ethiopian United Nations peacekeepers were killed and seven others wounded when their routine patrol was ambushed by unidentified armed men in Jonglei State, South Sudan. The UN has strongly condemned the attack, with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urging authorities to identify the perpetrators. The incident highlights the deteriorating security situation in the region, which is further complicated by the ongoing conflict in neighbouring Sudan.

Prabowo Kicks Off 100 GWp Solar Power Plant Development in Bali

President Prabowo Subianto is set to launch and break ground on Indonesia's 100 gigawatt peak (GWp) solar power programme in Jembrana, Bali, as part of the national energy and water independence priority cluster. The programme aims to reduce fossil fuel dependence, with a phased roadmap targeting 30 GWp installed capacity by 2026 and full completion by 2029. The government projects annual electricity cost savings of Rp73.9 trillion and the creation of 1.7 million jobs, including 760,000 green jobs.

Account Blocking at Request of Authorities Deemed to Lack Clear Legal Basis

Koalisi ResponsiBank Indonesia has questioned the legal basis for Bank Mandiri's blocking of an activist's account containing around Rp80.9 million. The coalition argues that citing a request from law enforcement is insufficient without clarity on authority, proportionality, and accountability. It calls for banks to ensure formal validity of such orders and uphold consumer protection obligations.

Ahead of Prabowo's Arrival, Bahlil Inspects Gilimanuk Solar Power Plant Groundbreaking Site

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia inspected the site of the Gilimanuk solar power plant ahead of President Prabowo Subianto's scheduled groundbreaking ceremony. The project, valued at Rp 9.157 trillion, will have a capacity of 300 MWp supported by a 1,000 MWh battery energy storage system. It forms part of a broader 100 GWp solar programme and is expected to reduce fuel oil consumption by 151,000 kilolitres per year.

Man in East Nusa Tenggara Dies After Wife Strikes Him with Shock Absorber Following Death Threat

A man in Timor Tengah Selatan, East Nusa Tenggara, died after his wife struck him repeatedly with a shock absorber following a drunken argument in which he threatened to kill her. Police have detained the woman, who remained at the scene and cooperated with officers. The case highlights recurring domestic violence in the household, according to local police.

UIN academic: Prophet Muhammad's birthday a momentum to strengthen moral education

An academic from UIN Saizu Purwokerto has called for the Prophet Muhammad's birthday commemoration to be used as a momentum to strengthen moral education and exemplary conduct amid increasingly complex societal moral issues. Muridan emphasised that the observance should move beyond ceremony towards behavioural transformation, particularly in families, education, and digital spaces. He highlighted the Prophet's example as relevant for managing differences and fostering respect in contemporary society.

DPR Agrees to Appoint Sarjito as Chief Executive of Mineral Exchange Supervisor, Here Is His Profile

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission XI has approved Sarjito as Chief Executive of the Mineral and Strategic Commodities Exchange (BMKS) supervisor for 2026-2031. Sarjito presented eight strategic policies aimed at building a liquid and trusted exchange that strengthens Indonesia's market sovereignty. The appointment will be brought to the DPR plenary session on Thursday for formal approval.

Facing Forest Fires and Prolonged Drought, South Kalimantan Provincial Government Holds Istisqa Prayer

The South Kalimantan provincial government, together with district and city administrations, held a mass Istisqa prayer on Tuesday (25/8) to seek divine intervention for rain amid a prolonged dry season and worsening forest and land fires. Governor Muhidin led the event at the Sabilal Muhtadin Grand Mosque in Banjarmasin, attended by around five thousand residents. The prayer comes as thick haze disrupts daily life, with schools and civil service working hours adjusted in Banjarmasin.

ICMI Women Appreciate Defence Minister's Policy Allowing Female Defence University Cadets to Wear Hijab

The women's wing of the Indonesian Association of Muslim Intellectuals (ICMI) has welcomed the Defence Minister's decision to permit female cadets at the Defence University to wear the hijab during their education. The organisation views the policy as a significant step in respecting religious freedom and strengthening diversity within defence education. ICMI also urged the ministry to address internal inconsistencies and ensure the policy is properly implemented on the ground.

Gerindra Legislator Oversees Sekolah Rakyat in Sigi, Inspects Site Directly

Gerindra Party legislator Longki Djanggola visited Sekolah Rakyat SMP 22 Sigi in Central Sulawesi to monitor the government's free school programme for underprivileged children. The permanent school complex in Pombewe Village is targeted to accommodate 2,000 students across primary, junior and senior high levels. Djanggola stressed that the programme must be precisely targeted and that learning quality, facilities and teacher availability are as important as infrastructure.

Blocking of Botok's Account a Form of Administrative Silencing

Amnesty International Indonesia has condemned the blocking of activist Supriyono alias Botok's Bank Mandiri account, calling it a human rights violation and an attempt to silence peaceful protest. Bank Mandiri said the block was requested by law enforcement, while Polda Metro Jaya clarified it only requested a five-day transaction delay for investigation purposes. The account contained around Rp80.9 million in personal funds and public donations for a protest in Jakarta.

Law Minister Urges HMI Cadres to Set Aside Short-Term Interests

Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas has called on members of the Islamic Students Association (HMI) to put aside short-term interests and animosity for the sake of the nation. Speaking at a national discussion hosted by the HMI alumni corps (KAHMI), he also encouraged the organisation to move beyond case-by-case debates and invited public criticism of his ministry. Supratman highlighted a weekly public complaints forum as part of efforts to build a more transparent and accountable bureaucracy.

KPK Seizes 60 Items of Evidence from Unsoed Rectorate Office in Admission Bribery Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized approximately 60 items of evidence from the rector's office at Jenderal Soedirman University (Unsoed) in Purwokerto, Central Java, following an eight-hour search. The seizure is part of an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption in the university's independent student admission pathway. Six suspects have been named, including three Unsoed officials and three private individuals.

Dompet Dhuafa and Musicians Hold Sound of Humanity for NTT, Target Rp 30 Billion in Donations

Dompet Dhuafa, in collaboration with several Indonesian musicians, held a charity concert titled 'Sound of Humanity' in Depok to raise funds for disaster-affected communities in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). The humanitarian organisation aims to collect up to Rp 30 billion to support both emergency response and long-term recovery efforts. The initiative, which began with a concert in Labuan Bajo, is expected to expand to other cities to broaden public participation.

Gerindra Responds to Budi Arie on Elections: Focus on Safeguarding Prabowo's Programmes

Gerindra spokesperson Sugiat Santoso has dismissed speculation about an early 2029 general election, stating the party is focused on supporting President Prabowo Subianto's programmes. The remarks follow a viral video of Projo chairman Budi Arie Setiadi discussing the possibility of an accelerated election timeline alongside former president Joko Widodo. Projo has clarified that the video was taken out of context from an internal discussion during an Independence Month gathering.

LRT Jakarta to Commence Full Operations Tomorrow

The Kelapa Gading-Manggarai LRT route in Jakarta will begin full operations immediately after its inauguration by President Prabowo Subianto on 26 August 2026. Governor Pramono Anung confirmed that all technical and operational preparations are complete, with services running from 05.00 to 24.00 WIB. The route is projected to carry between 60,000 and 80,000 passengers per day.

Identities of 5 Cars That Broke Through Thamrin-Sudirman CFD to Be Revealed

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has confirmed that the identities of a convoy of five private cars that forced their way through the Car Free Day area on Jalan Sudirman-Thamrin will soon be disclosed. The vehicles reportedly broke through barriers guarded by Satpol PP and police officers on Sunday, 23 August. The provincial government is currently tracing the owners, with indications that some vehicles used special number plates.

Minister Meutya Responds to Mentawai Resident Prosecuted for Selling Starlink Internet Services

Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid has urged a restorative approach in the case of a Mentawai resident prosecuted for providing unlicensed internet services. She noted that while the law must be respected, Sikakap village lacks fibre optic connectivity and relies on a single 4G operator, creating genuine demand for better internet access. The ministry favours guidance and helping residents obtain licences or join licensed ISPs rather than pursuing criminal penalties.

Minister Dudy strengthens transport safety oversight in Riau Islands

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has instructed all technical units in the Riau Islands to intensify safety oversight across land, sea, and air transport. The directive, issued as Ministerial Instruction IM 3 of 2026, covers roadworthiness checks, operator compliance, and public education. The minister emphasised the strategic importance of the region and the need to prevent repeat accidents.

KPK Questions Bengkulu PUPR Treasurer Over Rp 4 Billion Found at Noprisman's Home

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned the treasurer of Bengkulu's Public Works and Spatial Planning (PUPR) office regarding Rp 4 billion in cash discovered during a search of the home of the city's PUPR head, Noprisman. The examination is part of an expanded investigation into a corruption case involving the suspended Rejang Lebong Regent, M Fikri Thobari. A second civil servant was also questioned about procurement activities and items found at his residence.

Coalition of the willing to train troops for deployment to Ukraine

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has announced that the 'coalition of the willing' will conduct military exercises to prepare forces for deployment to Ukraine once a ceasefire is reached. The coalition, comprising more than 30 countries led by the UK and France, will also relocate its headquarters to London in the autumn. Russia has reiterated that any deployment of NATO member troops to Ukraine is unacceptable and risks triggering a sharp escalation.

Chinese Tourist Dies While Snorkelling at Long Pink Beach, Komodo National Park

A Chinese tourist has died after drowning while snorkelling at Long Pink Beach in Komodo National Park, Labuan Bajo. The victim, identified as Zou Huarong, was evacuated to Siloam Hospital but could not be saved. The incident raises concerns about tourist safety in one of Indonesia's premier marine destinations.

Video: Boosting Indonesia's Economy, Rp 35 Trillion in Pindar Funds Flows to MSMEs

CNBC Indonesia and the Indonesian Fintech Lending Association (AFPI) are hosting Fintech Lending Days 2026 to advance the country's digital financing ecosystem. The event brings together regulators, industry players, investors, and strategic partners to foster initiatives and partnerships for the peer-to-peer lending sector. The forum aims to generate tangible impact for the growth of the information technology-based joint funding services industry, known as Pindar.

One Prophet, a Thousand Traditions: Diverse Mawlid Celebrations Around the World

The article explores how the Prophet Muhammad's birthday is commemorated across various countries, highlighting distinct cultural expressions from national holidays in Pakistan to candle processions in Morocco. It details the scale and unique traditions of Mawlid celebrations in Pakistan, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Morocco, Sudan, and Egypt, showing how local customs blend with religious observance.

The Mighty Dhikr Bequeathed by the Prophet Muhammad to More Than 19 Companions

The article discusses the significance of the dhikr 'Lā haula wa lā quwwata illā billāh', which the Prophet Muhammad specifically advised more than 19 of his companions to recite frequently. It explains that this phrase acknowledges a servant's complete dependence on Allah for strength in obedience and avoidance of sin. The dhikr is described as one of the treasures of Paradise and a reminder for Muslims to place their reliance solely on Allah.

Three Days After Divorce, Balinese Man Found Dead Near Ex-Wife's Home in Mataram

A 40-year-old Balinese man was found dead by hanging near his ex-wife's home in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, just three days after their divorce. Police said the man had attempted to reconcile but was unable to do so because the divorce was final. Authorities found no signs of violence and believe he died by suicide.

RI's parliament targets asset forfeiture bill passage by Dec 2026

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III is aiming to pass the Asset Forfeiture Bill by December 2026, with only about eight effective working weeks remaining after recess periods. The commission has held 35 public hearings and received written submissions from dozens of community groups, most of whom strongly support the bill while urging careful drafting to prevent abuses of power. President Prabowo Subianto has ordered the government to expedite the bill, which has taken longer than other legislation because its concept is new to Indonesia.

IEU CEPA to Be Signed Soon, Indonesian Products to Get 0% Tariff to Europe

Indonesia is finalising preparations for the Indonesia-European Union Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU CEPA), targeted for signing in October 2026. The deal will liberalise around 98% of tariff lines, granting 0% tariffs on key Indonesian exports such as palm oil, textiles, footwear, and rubber products to the EU market of 450 million consumers. The government is coordinating inter-ministerial efforts to complete ratification documents and address regulatory challenges including the EU Deforestation Regulation and Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism.

Police urge public to be discerning when responding to information in digital spaces

The Indonesian National Police have called on the public to carefully verify information circulating online by checking its source, timing, location and context before believing or sharing it. Head of Public Relations Inspector General Johnny Eddizon Isir highlighted the recurring pattern of old videos resurfacing with new narratives. He urged citizens to help maintain a healthy digital environment by being smart, critical and responsible social media users.

NTT Police Name Three TTU DPRD Members Suspects in Intimidation of Doctor Icha

East Nusa Tenggara Police have named three members of the Timor Tengah Utara Regional House of Representatives as suspects in the alleged intimidation of Doctor Eliza Princila Utami Pakaenoni, known as Doctor Icha. The suspects face layered charges carrying up to seven years in prison, with investigators alleging the intimidation caused severe depression that led to the doctor's suicide. The case has already prompted the DPRD's ethics body to suspend the three legislators.

Tabebuya Blooms in Central Jakarta Evoke Japanese Vibes, Residents Say 'Refreshing for the Eyes Amid Traffic'

Tabebuya trees are in full bloom along Jalan Salemba Raya and Jalan Kramat Raya in Central Jakarta, drawing residents to photograph the pink and white blossoms. Locals likened the scenery to Japan's cherry blossom season and expressed hope that more tabebuya trees would be planted across the city to provide visual relief during traffic congestion.

Jakarta Becomes World's Most Populous City: The Impact on Bekasi and Depok

Jakarta's metropolitan area has become the world's most populous urban region with around 42 million residents, according to the UN's World Urbanization Prospects 2025. Urban planning experts warn that satellite cities like Bekasi, Depok, Bogor and Tangerang must evolve into secondary central business districts to reduce commuter dependence on the capital. The population is projected to grow by another 10 million over the next 25 years, intensifying pressure on Greater Jakarta's infrastructure and services.

Canada Prepares Tariff Retaliation, US Economy Threatened with Impact

Canada is preparing retaliatory tariffs against the United States following Washington's imposition of 50 percent duties on Canadian goods worth around 20 billion US dollars. Prime Minister Mark Carney has signalled that countermeasures will begin on 8 September, targeting sectors including steel, dairy, household appliances, agricultural equipment, pulp, paper and electronics. The escalating trade dispute is expected to affect both economies given the deep integration of cross-border supply chains and Canada's role as a major energy supplier to the US.

Forest and Land Fires 'Besiege' Nusantara Capital City, Buffer Zone Blazes Continue to Spread

Forest and land fires around Indonesia's new capital, Nusantara (IKN), have escalated sharply, with East Kalimantan recording 470 incidents and 1,393.78 hectares affected as of 24 August 2026. The buffer zones of Penajam Paser Utara and Kutai Kartanegara have seen significant increases since July, driven by weather conditions. Authorities report that all fires remain manageable through collaborative cross-sector efforts, with no smoke impact yet reported in the core IKN area.

Rosan: DSI Strengthens Export Data and Transaction Verification System

Danantara Indonesia CEO Rosan Roeslani has stated that PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) was established to strengthen national export governance through an integrated, transparent and credible data and transaction verification system. He emphasised that DSI will not add bureaucracy or replace regulators, with all licensing, regulatory and supervisory functions remaining with authorised ministries and agencies. The implementation will be carried out in stages to avoid disrupting existing trade flows.

Atmosphere at Masjid Gedhe Kauman Ahead of Kondur Gangsa in Sekaten Jogja

The Kagungan Dalem Masjid Gedhe Kauman in Yogyakarta was filled with residents on Tuesday as the Sekaten and Garebeg Mulud Be 1960/2026 ceremonies neared their conclusion. Visitors gathered to listen to the two Gamelan Sekati being played at the Pagongan Lor and Kidul pavilions. The evening's Kondur Gangsa procession, marking the peak of Sekaten, will be attended by Sultan Hamengku Buwono X, though this year's Garebeg Mulud has been simplified by royal decree, with no gunungan distribution.

Environment Minister: Plantation companies must cooperate to tackle forest and land fires

Indonesia's Environment Minister has praised the South Kalimantan branch of the Indonesian Palm Oil Association (GAPKI) for expanding forest and land fire prevention efforts beyond company concessions. The initiative includes strengthening firefighting equipment, patrols, early warning systems, and community involvement. The minister stressed that fire control must be followed by environmental restoration for those proven responsible for fires.

Palm oil projected to meet 60 percent of global vegetable oil demand by 2050

Palm oil is projected to supply around 60 percent of global vegetable oil needs by 2050, positioning Indonesia as a strategically important producer. The Palm Oil Agribusiness Strategic Policy Institute highlights palm oil's superior productivity and sustainability compared with other vegetable oils. It urges productivity improvements through replanting programmes and better agricultural practices to meet rising global demand.

Jasa Marga to carry out maintenance at several points on Jabotabek toll roads

State-owned toll road operator PT Jasa Marga will conduct pavement reconstruction works on the Jagorawi, Jakarta Outer Ring Road, and Jakarta–Tangerang toll roads from 24 August to 1 September 2026. The works are intended to meet the Minimum Service Standards for toll roads while maintaining pavement quality, safety, and user comfort. Motorists are advised to plan their journeys and follow traffic signs and officers' instructions during the temporary lane and access closures.