Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 25 August 2026

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PSI Firm on Budi Arie: Not a Member, Not an Official, Not the Secretary-General!

The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) has publicly distanced itself from Budi Arie Setiadi, stating he holds no position within the party. Deputy Chairman Andy Budiman criticised Budi Arie's political manoeuvres, suggesting he was embittered after being reshuffled from the cabinet. PSI urged the public to stop associating Budi Arie's statements and actions with the party.

Prabowo: Disaster Response in Aceh and NTT Was Swift, We Are Serious

President Prabowo Subianto has asserted that the government responded rapidly to recent disasters in Aceh and East Nusa Tenggara, despite facing various national challenges. He linked the state's capacity to fund such responses, including hundreds of helicopters and heavy equipment, to ongoing efforts to combat corruption and plug financial leaks. Prabowo stressed that the government remains committed to improving state financial management and will not be complacent.

Former PCINU Turkey Chairman Outlines Three Criteria for PBNU Chairman Candidates

Ahmad Munji, former chairman of the Nahdlatul Ulama Special Branch in Turkey, has set out three key criteria for the next leader of Indonesia's largest Islamic organisation ahead of its 35th Congress in Jombang. He emphasised depth of religious scholarship, managerial capability, and cross-cultural diplomacy as essential qualities. Munji also noted that the international dimension has been largely absent from current public debate about the candidates.

Conduciveness as Infrastructure for Economic Trust

The article argues that social stability and public order are intangible infrastructure essential for sustaining Indonesia's economic momentum. It highlights strong GDP growth and investment figures while warning that prolonged disruptions from demonstrations could harm small businesses and daily wage earners. The author calls for a balance between freedom of expression and maintaining conditions that support business confidence and job creation.

Shootout in North Lampung: wanted man dead, three police officers injured

A man on the police wanted list for a narcotics case was killed in a shootout with officers in North Lampung, while three policemen sustained injuries. The suspect, identified by the initials PHP, allegedly opened fire on officers during an operation prompted by reports of illegal firearm use. Police recovered a homemade revolver and ammunition and are investigating possible links to a wider illegal firearms network.

Bank BSN Holds Mass Contract Signing for 10,000 Financing Agreements, Subsidised Mortgages Dominate

PT Bank Syariah Nasional (Bank BSN) has simultaneously executed 10,000 sharia financing contracts across Indonesia as part of its first anniversary as a full-fledged Islamic commercial bank. Subsidised home mortgages accounted for 6,550 of the agreements, underscoring the bank's role in expanding access to affordable housing. The lender also reported strong financial growth, with assets rising 22.2% year-on-year to Rp81.1 trillion as of July 2026.

Forestry Law Enforcement Directorate Targets Three Corporations in Jambi Over Suspected Forest Fire Involvement

The Ministry of Forestry's Law Enforcement Directorate is investigating three corporations in Jambi in connection with 42 forest and land fire cases. Minister Raja Juli Antoni has pledged impartial enforcement, stating that no party will be spared regardless of size. The Jambi Regional Police have separately named eight suspects in seven cases, though none involve corporations thus far.

Building a Nation of Engineers from the Provinces

An opinion piece argues that Indonesia should shift its focus from the national shortage of engineers to developing complete engineering ecosystems in each province. Drawing on regional innovation studies from China and India, the author proposes that every province select two to five engineering missions based on its economic structure. Success should be measured by active engineering employment, industrial R&D, and technological capability rather than graduate numbers alone.

AINAKI urges local animation industry to develop more character-based IP

The Indonesian Animation Industry Association (AINAKI) is calling on local studios to create more original character-based intellectual property to reduce reliance on outsourced production work for foreign companies. AINAKI chairman Daryl Wilson argues that owning IP generates broader economic benefits through films, merchandise, comics and events. He stresses that strengthening both IP ownership and production capacity must go hand in hand.

5,922 Forest and Land Fire Hotspots Surround Six Provinces

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) reports 5,922 forest and land fire hotspots across six priority provinces, with South Sumatra and West Kalimantan among the worst affected. The agency continues to coordinate firefighting efforts while hoping for rainfall to reduce the number of hotspots and improve air quality.

ASITA NTT pushes for 3A-based tourism recovery after Flores earthquake

The Indonesian Travel Companies Association (ASITA) in East Nusa Tenggara is urging a recovery of the tourism sector following the Flores earthquake by focusing on three key elements: attractions, amenities, and accessibility. The association stresses that these components must be restored and confirmed operational to bring tourists back to the region. It also calls for official government statements and positive media campaigns to reassure travellers that destinations are safe and ready to receive visitors.

NU 35th Congress Participants Quarantined at Sukolilo Hajj Dormitory, Media Barred from Entry

A day before the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress, arriving participants are being held at the Sukolilo Hajj Dormitory in Surabaya under tight security, with journalists prohibited from covering activities inside. The sudden provision of transit facilities has raised suspicions that participants are being quarantined at the initiative of a candidate for PBNU chairman before proceeding to the congress venue in Jombang.

Beyond Building Solar Power Plants, Bahlil Accelerates Conversion of Diesel Power Plants to Clean Energy-Based Generation

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has announced that the government will continue to push for the conversion of diesel power plants to cleaner energy sources, alongside the construction of new solar power plants. He cited PLN's efforts in Bangka Belitung, which are utilising wind and solar power to replace diesel, as an example. The minister highlighted that such conversions could reduce diesel consumption and ease the subsidy burden on the state budget.

State-Backed Banking Giant BRI Expands Microservices Architecture in Taiwan as Annual Remittance Inflows Target $900 Million

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia is expanding its digital banking infrastructure in Taiwan to capture a larger share of the lucrative remittance corridor for Indonesian migrant workers. The state-owned lender has deployed a microservices-based mobile platform to overcome geographical barriers and informal remittance risks, with annual inflows projected to reach up to $900 million. This expansion strengthens BRI's fee income and deposit base while supporting Indonesia's foreign exchange pipeline.

SOE Profits Surge by Hundreds of Percent, Prabowo Wants to Award Rosan State Honour

President Prabowo Subianto has announced plans to confer a state honour on Danantara CEO Rosan Roeslani, citing the dramatic improvement in state-owned enterprise profitability under his leadership. Speaking at the launch of a 100 GWp solar power programme in Bali, Prabowo highlighted that SOE earnings have risen by hundreds of percent in under two years. He also detailed specific profit increases across major SOEs, including a ninefold rise at PT Timah.

Experts: Peatland Fire Prevention Must Be Science-Based

IPB University experts have urged a science-based approach to preventing forest and land fires in Indonesia's peat ecosystems. They argue that peat fires are driven by interconnected technical and non-technical factors, requiring comprehensive monitoring, water management, and community engagement. The experts also stress that fire investigations must be evidence-based to accurately determine causes and responsibility.

Pekanbaru extends online learning until Friday due to haze

The Pekanbaru city government has extended distance learning for students from early childhood education through junior secondary school until Friday, 28 August, citing deteriorating air quality caused by haze. The policy follows air quality readings in the unhealthy to hazardous range and aims to protect student health. Schools are also instructed to maximise home assignments, while the free nutritious meal programme remains suspended during the remote learning period.

Cutting Diesel Dependence, Bahlil Accelerates Solar Power Plant Construction to Villages

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has confirmed the government will expand solar power plant development to villages without electricity access. The programme forms part of a target to build 100 gigawatt peak of solar capacity. It aims to support rural electrification and reduce reliance on diesel fuel.

Suspect in Murder of Mother and Grandmother in West Pasaman Faces 20 Years in Prison

A 32-year-old man in West Pasaman, West Sumatra, faces up to 20 years in prison for the alleged murder of his mother and grandmother. Police have charged the suspect under the new Criminal Code, which allows an increased penalty when the victim is a close family member. Investigators are also looking into the suspect's background, including possible mental health issues or drug use.

Immigration deports Russian national involved in illegal publication in Papua

Indonesian immigration authorities have deported a Russian citizen found to have engaged in activities inconsistent with his tourist visa after documenting a protest by the West Papua National Committee in Wamena. The man had visited Papua approximately ten times between 2024 and 2026 and admitted to capturing photos and videos of the demonstration for his social media accounts. Officials stressed that foreign nationals must respect the terms of their visas and that immigration will act against any misuse of residence permits or threats to public order.

Forestry Minister Pursues Weather Modification to Tackle Forest and Land Fires in Jambi

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has pledged to deploy weather modification operations in Jambi to combat forest and land fires, citing the province's vulnerable peatlands and high number of hotspots. The minister's statement follows discrepancies between official reports to President Prabowo Subianto and the ongoing fires observed on the ground. Operations are scheduled to begin on 27 August 2026.

Leading in Digital Payments, BRI Sweeps Awards at PRIMA Awards

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk secured eight awards at the 2026 PRIMA Awards for its performance in electronic transaction services and payment systems. The recognition spans acquiring and issuing bank categories, highlighting the bank's strength in digital payment channels and QRIS transactions. BRI reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining secure, reliable and accessible digital payment services across Indonesia.

Clean Water Crisis Hits 38 Villages in Tasikmalaya, 46,993 People Affected

The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) of Tasikmalaya Regency has distributed free clean water to 11,095 households, or 46,993 residents, across 38 villages in 23 sub-districts affected by a worsening water crisis. The drought, exacerbated by the El Niño phenomenon, environmental degradation and climate change, has also caused 2,150 hectares of farmland to fail and fish ponds to shrink. Emergency response operations are continuing despite a lack of contingency budget, with personnel relying on personal funds for operational costs.

Ahead of NU Congress, Political Expert Views Consolidation of Voter Support as Normal

A political analyst has described efforts to consolidate support among eligible voters ahead of the Nahdlatul Ulama congress as a normal part of organisational contests. Adi Prayitno noted that branch and regional executives retain the right to reject such approaches to preserve their independence.

Sandiaga Uno Officially Appointed President Commissioner of MUTU International

Sandiaga Uno has been formally appointed as President Commissioner of PT Mutuagung Lestari Tbk (MUTU) following an extraordinary general meeting of shareholders. The appointment comes after he acquired a 1.19 per cent stake in the company through a private placement in July 2026. MUTU expects his strategic perspective to strengthen its position in the green economy, carbon markets, halal services and digital traceability.

The Mandalika Investor Donates Rp 2 Billion to Sade Fire Victims

Sapo Development, a foreign investor in The Mandalika area, has donated Rp 2 billion to assist victims of the fire that struck the traditional village of Sade in Central Lombok. ITDC is coordinating relief efforts alongside 32 state-owned enterprises operating in West Nusa Tenggara, with various forms of aid being distributed to affected residents. The fire reportedly damaged 75 homes, a mosque, traditional structures, and numerous artisan shops in the village.

Police have not detained Ruben Onsu as he is deemed not to obstruct investigation

South Jakarta Police have not detained celebrity Ruben Onsu, a suspect in an alleged fraud and embezzlement case involving Rp3.5 billion, because he is considered cooperative and has provided factual information. Investigators say Onsu has not ignored summonses, attempted to flee, destroy evidence, or influence witnesses. He is scheduled for further questioning as a suspect on Friday, 28 August.

Ministry of Human Rights investigates land complaint affected by KPC project in East Kutai

The East Kalimantan Regional Office of the Ministry of Human Rights is investigating a complaint from residents regarding 486 square metres of land affected by a river channel improvement project by PT Kaltim Prima Coal in Kutai Timur Regency. The ministry has conducted field inspections and dialogues with the company and local officials to gather substantive facts. Mediation involving village government and technical agencies will be facilitated to resolve the dispute through deliberation.

Prabowo: Oil Lifting Must Rise, We Must Not Import a Single Barrel!

President Prabowo Subianto has reaffirmed his government's commitment to achieving energy self-sufficiency by boosting domestic oil lifting and eliminating all oil imports. Speaking at the groundbreaking of the 100 GWp solar power plant in Jembrana, Bali, he also ordered an end to LPG imports. Prabowo expressed optimism that the 100 GWp solar target could be reached in under three years, challenging his energy team to complete it within two years.

Have a Small Plot at Home? These 7 Hydroponic Plants Could Be a Money-Maker

A guide to turning limited home space into a profitable hydroponic micro-business. The article identifies seven fast-growing, high-demand crops suited to terraces, balconies and small yards, with practical advice on targeting restaurants, caterers and households. It highlights strategies such as weekly supply contracts, bundling and staggered planting to secure repeat orders.

Indonesia sets three-year target for 100 GW solar power capacity

President Prabowo Subianto has launched an ambitious programme to build 100 gigawatts of solar power capacity within three years, citing Indonesia's vast solar potential of 3,294 GWp. The initiative is expected to deliver energy self-sufficiency and save up to Rp73.9 trillion annually in electricity costs while reducing reliance on imported energy.

Kamang Baru Police Arrest Drug Dealer in Sijunjung, Seize Digital Scales

Police in Kamang Baru, Sijunjung Regency, have arrested a 34-year-old trader suspected of dealing methamphetamine along the Trans-Sumatra Highway. The arrest followed a public tip-off and resulted in the seizure of meth packages, digital scales, mobile phones, a motorcycle, and cash. Authorities are continuing to investigate possible links to a wider narcotics network.

South Kalimantan Brimob opens field kitchen to supply food in forest fire areas

The South Kalimantan Police Mobile Brigade (Brimob) has deployed a field kitchen vehicle capable of producing 300 portions per cooking session to support personnel and residents affected by forest and land fires. Two water treatment units have also been activated to provide ready-to-drink water for communities facing drought during the prolonged dry season. The initiative follows directives from the provincial police chief as firefighting efforts continue across several locations in Banjarbaru.

Land Fires in Mataram on the Rise, Four Incidents Recorded in a Week

The Mataram Fire Department has reported a significant increase in land fires as the dry season sets in, handling more than four incidents in the past week. Most fires are caused by unattended rubbish burning and discarded cigarette butts in dry areas. Officials have urged residents to be vigilant and ensure fires are fully extinguished before leaving them.

Bundaran HI Underground Space Project Spanning Over 4,000 Square Metres to Be Completed Next Year

Construction of the extended concourse beneath Jakarta's Bundaran HI has reached 24 per cent progress as of August 2026, with completion targeted for June 2027. The Rp148.2 billion project is being undertaken by PT Integrasi Transit Jakarta, a subsidiary of PT MRT Jakarta, and is intended as a gift for Jakarta's 500th anniversary. The facility will connect directly to surrounding buildings and integrate with Transjakarta and MRT services.

Depok Immigration Uncovers Human Trafficking Scheme Using 'Mail-Order Bride' Modus to China, Dowry Rp70 Million

The Depok Immigration Office has dismantled a suspected human trafficking operation that lured victims with promises of marriage and a Rp70 million dowry to send them to China as 'mail-order brides'. A married couple acting as recruiters was arrested during a passport application interview. Authorities have handed the case to Depok Police for further investigation.

Expanding Electricity Access to Villages, Bahlil Confident 100 GWp Solar Power Project Will Be Completed in 3 Years

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has announced that the government's 100 GWp solar power plant programme will be implemented on a massive scale and completed within three years. The initiative aims to extend electricity access to villages that have never been connected to the grid, in line with President Prabowo's directive for 1 MW of solar capacity per village. The government is also pushing to convert diesel-fired power plants to renewable energy sources to reduce fuel imports.

South Kalimantan Forestry Service deploys 150 personnel to prevent forest fires in protected forest

The South Kalimantan Forestry Service has mobilised 150 personnel and six heavy equipment units to strengthen prevention and handling of forest and land fires in the Liang Anggang protected forest area. The deployment aims to ensure any hotspots are quickly extinguished before they spread into the protected forest. The effort involves coordination with the provincial social service, regional police, and the Indonesian Navy.

Prabowo breaks ground on 100 GWp solar power project

President Prabowo Subianto has officially launched the first phase of Indonesia's 100 GWp solar power programme, beginning with 14 plants across six provinces. The initiative is framed as a major step away from fossil fuels, with the government targeting completion of the full 100 GWp capacity within three years. The ceremony was attended by several senior ministers from the Red and White Cabinet.

West Sumatra Government Sends 2.1 Tonnes of Rendang for NTT Earthquake Victims

The West Sumatra provincial government has dispatched 2.1 tonnes of rendang as emergency food aid for victims of the NTT earthquake. Governor Mahyeldi Ansharullah personally handed over the aid at the BNPB logistics post in Labuan Bajo and in Manggarai Regency. The choice of rendang was deliberate, as the dish is durable and practical for distribution in disaster situations.

China's Foreign Ministry Responds to US: China-Iran Cooperation Must Not Be Interfered With

China has firmly rejected the United States' threat of new sanctions against Iran, asserting that its cooperation with Tehran is conducted within international law and cannot be interfered with. Beijing warned that economic warfare and maximum pressure will only exacerbate tensions. The statement comes as Washington delays its so-called 'Economic D-Day' while threatening sanctions against countries that refuse to sever economic ties with Iran.

Regent Jeje Orders Inspectorate to Audit BOS Fund Usage at SMPN 02 Ngamprah

West Bandung Regent Jeje Ritchie Ismail has ordered the regional inspectorate to audit the use of School Operational Assistance (BOS) funds at SMPN 02 Ngamprah after the school's poor condition drew public attention. Despite receiving Rp1.3 billion in central government funding this year, the school has broken windows, damaged toilets, peeling walls and collapsed ceilings. The regent expressed disappointment that the school, which holds a National Adiwiyata award, failed to use the permitted 20 per cent of BOS funds for basic maintenance.

Indonesia Officially Launches 100 GW Solar Power Project with Rp1,140 Trillion Investment

President Prabowo Subianto has officially launched Indonesia's 100 gigawatt peak solar power programme, beginning with 14 projects across six provinces. The initiative, valued at approximately US$73 billion, is projected to create 5.52 million jobs and cut energy subsidies by Rp73.9 trillion annually. The government aims to complete the programme within three years, with the possibility of accelerating the timeline to two years.

Dukcapil Issues 358 Civil Documents for Earthquake Victims in West Manggarai

Indonesia's Directorate General of Population and Civil Registration (Dukcapil) has deployed mobile service teams to West Manggarai Regency following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara. The initiative, ordered by Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian, aims to restore lost or damaged identity documents such as electronic ID cards, birth certificates, and family cards. The service is provided free of charge across seven affected districts on Flores Island.

Police schedule Ruben Onsu examination for Friday

South Jakarta Metropolitan Police have scheduled the questioning of Ruben Onsu as a suspect in an alleged fraud and embezzlement case for Friday, 28 August. The case stems from an investment offer made by Onsu to a victim, DM, who reportedly suffered losses of up to Rp3.5 billion. Police upgraded the case to the investigation stage in April after examining six witnesses, including experts.

Bahlil: Total Investment for 100 GWp Solar Power Plant Exceeds Rp 1,140 Trillion

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has announced that the 100 GWp solar power plant programme will require a total investment of approximately US$73 billion, or over Rp 1,140 trillion. The project is expected to generate annual subsidy savings of Rp 73.9 trillion and create around 5.52 million jobs. The government has commenced the initial phase with a groundbreaking for 5.3 GWp of capacity, including 1,000 MW in Bali equipped with battery energy storage.

Prabowo affirms state presence in facing disasters and forest fires

President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised the government's integrated response to earthquakes, extreme weather, and forest and land fires across Indonesia. He highlighted the large-scale deployment of helicopters, aircraft, water pumps, and personnel to control the fires, expressing optimism that they will be fully contained within one to two weeks. The President also praised rapid responses to disasters in Aceh and East Nusa Tenggara.

Pekanbaru Extends Online Learning for Students Due to Haze

The Pekanbaru city government has extended distance learning for all PAUD, kindergarten, primary and junior secondary school students for a further three days as air quality remains at hazardous levels due to forest and land fires. Parents are urged to keep children indoors and collect free nutritious meal programmes from schools on their behalf. Air quality in the Riau provincial capital has been recorded at dangerous levels, with PM2.5 concentrations far exceeding safe limits and hundreds of acute respiratory infection cases reported.

AINAKI explains AI's impact on animation industry: it won't replace humans

The Indonesian Animation Industry Association (AINAKI) says artificial intelligence will significantly impact animation workflows but will not replace animators. Chairman Daryl Wilson argues that AI is a tool whose output depends on human input and must still be reviewed by professionals. He urges animation workers to embrace new technology while maintaining their existing knowledge and skills.

Video: Unveiling the Effects of Indonesia's Credit Card on the Payment System Business

Bank Indonesia and the Indonesian Payment System Association have launched the Indonesian Credit Card to strengthen the domestic payment system. The central bank has also expanded the 0% Merchant Discount Rate for QRIS transactions, effective 1 October 2026, to encourage digital payment adoption among micro, small, medium, and large merchants. Netzme's CEO sees these policies as boosting QRIS usage and driving business efficiency for payment service providers.