Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 25 August 2026

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PWNU Central Java Rejects Money Politics Ahead of 35th NU Congress

The Central Java regional board of Nahdlatul Ulama (PWNU) has declared its opposition to money politics and external pressure ahead of the organisation's 35th Congress in Jombang, East Java. The board issued a six-point declaration calling for an honest, clean, open, democratic and civil congress, and urged the President to prevent state apparatus from interfering. The declaration was made during a Maulid commemoration and prayer gathering for departing delegates.

Manifest and Evacuation Data for KMP Mutiara Sentosa 2 Differ, Police Conduct Further Investigation

East Java Regional Police investigators have found discrepancies in the passenger manifest of the KMP Mutiara Sentosa 2 ferry that caught fire off the coast of Sumenep. The official manifest listed 232 people aboard, while Basarnas evacuated 238, prompting deeper scrutiny into responsibility for the incident that claimed five lives. Police are also examining indications of blame-shifting among parties involved in the initial response and legal process.

Gajah Mungkur Floating Solar Plant Construction Begins, Targeting 2027 Operation

Construction of the Gajah Mungkur Floating Solar Power Plant in Wonogiri, Central Java, has officially commenced as part of Indonesia's national 100 GWp solar programme. The 134 MWp facility, costing approximately Rp1.6 trillion, is expected to generate 218 GWh annually and meet 37% of Wonogiri's electricity needs when operational in late 2027.

Garut Agriculture Office develops potential of strawberry and garlic commodities

The Garut Regency Agriculture Office is working to develop strawberry and garlic as alternative farming commodities alongside the region's staple crops of rice and potatoes. Strawberry cultivation currently covers 112 hectares in Malangbong District, while garlic planting has begun on 8,000 square metres in Karangtengah with a target of 20.8 hectares. The main challenge identified is the availability of certified, high-quality seeds, prompting efforts to partner with industry for seedling supply.

Prabowo Inaugurates Construction of 100 GW Solar Power Project, Here is the List

President Prabowo Subianto has officially launched the construction of a 100 GWp solar power megaproject across Indonesia, with an initial phase covering 14 projects totalling 5,216 MWp. The programme, valued at Rp 1,140 trillion, is expected to create 5.5 million jobs and save Rp 73.9 trillion annually in energy subsidies. The President has set an ambitious target of completing the project within two years.

Bank BSN Holds Mass Contract Signing for 10,000 Financing Units to Boost Sharia Financial Literacy and Inclusion

PT Bank Syariah Nasional (Bank BSN) has conducted a simultaneous mass sharia financing contract signing for 10,000 units across Indonesia, centred in Bogor, West Java. The event forms part of the bank's first anniversary celebrations since becoming a full-fledged Islamic commercial bank. It aims to expand market penetration while improving sharia financial literacy and inclusion, particularly in facilitating affordable housing.

Prabowo Targets Forest and Land Fire Handling to Be Completed in Two Weeks: We Are a Strong Nation!

President Prabowo Subianto has stated that the government is deploying maximum resources to tackle forest and land fires across several regions of Indonesia, with a target to complete handling within two weeks. The effort involves dozens of helicopters, aircraft, hundreds of boreholes and water pumps, and thousands of personnel. He emphasised that the scale of the response demonstrates the state's strength and commitment to ensuring communities do not face disasters alone.

Minister Bahlil: Total capacity of 14 solar power projects reaches 5.3 GW

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has announced that 14 solar power plant projects being launched simultaneously have a combined capacity of 5.3 gigawatt peak. The projects include floating solar plants on major reservoirs in West Java and a solar-plus-storage cluster in Madura. The initiative forms part of Indonesia's broader 100 GWp solar programme aimed at accelerating renewable energy adoption.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the Wuling Air EV Worth Knowing

The Wuling Air EV has become a popular choice in Indonesia's growing electric vehicle market, offering compact dimensions, low running costs and exemption from Jakarta's odd-even traffic restrictions. However, prospective buyers should weigh these benefits against its limited luggage space, small wheels and reduced stability at high speeds. The article provides a comprehensive review of the model's strengths and weaknesses to help consumers make an informed decision.

Responding to Public Criticism, BPS DIY: Desil Changes Still Possible

The Yogyakarta Special Region Statistics Agency (BPS DIY) has clarified that changes to desil status in the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) remain possible through field verification. The agency responded to public concerns after a becak driver previously classified in desil 1–2 was moved to desil 9. BPS DIY emphasised that verification aims to improve data accuracy for targeted social assistance, while the Social Affairs Office is considering schemes to avoid abruptly cutting aid for households whose desil rises but whose actual conditions have not improved.

Cassa Aircraft That Skidded at Hasanuddin Airport Successfully Evacuated

A Cassa aircraft belonging to the Indonesian Navy that skidded on the runway at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Maros, South Sulawesi, has been successfully evacuated. The incident occurred a day after a Sukhoi fighter jet belonging to the Indonesian Air Force experienced a similar mishap at the same airport. Civil aviation operations have been confirmed to be running normally, with flights diverted to an alternative runway.

Bringing Skills from Taiwan, BRI Peduli Encourages Indonesian Migrant Workers to Become Entrepreneurs

BRI Peduli has launched a capacity-building programme for Indonesian migrant workers in Taiwan, offering practical workshops in culinary arts and beauty entrepreneurship. The initiative aims to equip participants with skills they can use to start businesses upon returning to Indonesia. BRI says the programme is part of a broader roadmap to help diaspora workers use their remittances productively and return home with stronger entrepreneurial capacity.

Used Furniture Warehouse in Denpasar Catches Fire, Resident Hears Explosion

A used furniture warehouse in West Denpasar was destroyed by fire on Tuesday afternoon after a resident reported hearing an explosion from inside the building. Firefighters extinguished the blaze within an hour, and no casualties were reported. Police estimate losses at Rp300 million and are continuing to investigate the cause.

Inspector General Sandi Affirms Joint Handling of Forest and Land Fires in South Sumatra: Prevention Continues to Be Maximised

South Sumatra Police, together with local government and related agencies, are intensifying efforts to control forest and land fires (Karhutla) through prevention, mitigation, extinguishing, and law enforcement. Police Chief Inspector General Sandi Nugroho highlighted strong collaboration among stakeholders and confirmed that 17 suspects have been named in connection with Karhutla cases. The joint approach includes prayer gatherings and ongoing field operations to prevent new fire outbreaks.

Israel Begins Open Recruitment in Indonesia

Israel has launched an open recruitment drive in Indonesia through the Israel-Asia Center, seeking participants for its Israel-Indonesia Future 2027 programme. The initiative is part of a broader push to normalise diplomatic relations with Indonesia, which Israel views as a key target alongside Saudi Arabia. The programme aims to build bridges in areas such as food, water, energy, health, finance, education and cross-cultural understanding.

Indonesian Air Force air operations accelerate forest and land fire suppression in South Kalimantan's Ring 1

The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) has deployed multiple helicopters to accelerate the suppression of forest and land fires in South Kalimantan, prioritising the Ring 1 area around Syamsudin Noor International Airport in Banjarbaru. The air operations, which include water bombing and aerial monitoring, are being coordinated with ground personnel conducting firefighting, containment, and hotspot surveillance. The combined effort involves the TNI, National Police, regional disaster management agency, government agencies, and local communities.

Why Many People Are Fed Up With and Hate American Giant Palantir

Palantir Technologies is enjoying explosive growth in the US, but faces mounting rejection in Europe over its ties to US government operations, military use, and immigration enforcement. The controversy highlights Europe's anxiety about technological dependence on America, even as few European firms can match Palantir's capabilities. Its contracts with the NHS and British police have drawn particular scrutiny from lawmakers and local officials.

Video: Not Just MotoGP Circuit, Mandalika Has Cultural and Culinary Tourism

ITDC's acting president director Ahmad Fajar says the development of the Mandalika tourism area in West Nusa Tenggara aims to create a 'living destination' rather than merely an event destination. The strategy involves promoting quality tourism through beach attractions, cultural performances and world-class cuisine so that economic activity continues throughout the year, not only during MotoGP events.

BNPB Verifies 77,912 Damaged Houses Following NTT Earthquake to Ensure Aid Reaches Right Targets

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) is verifying data on 77,912 houses damaged by the recent earthquake across seven regencies in East Nusa Tenggara. The verification process aims to confirm damage levels and ownership details before transitioning from emergency response to rehabilitation and reconstruction. The agency is also providing psychosocial support services to affected communities in several locations.

President Prabowo praises Red and White Cabinet for working without holidays

President Prabowo Subianto has commended his Red and White Cabinet for its dedication, saying members work through public holidays as part of their service to the nation. Speaking during the launch of a 100 GWp solar power programme on the Maulid Nabi holiday, he warned that those unable to keep pace could step aside. He also highlighted achievements in food self-sufficiency and state-owned enterprise reform.

Softening words does not change the facts

An opinion piece examines how Indonesian speakers use euphemism and indirect language to avoid stating uncomfortable truths. It uses the example of the railway term 'tertemper' as a softer alternative to 'tertabrak' (hit) and reflects on the broader human tendency to choose pleasant lies over painful honesty.

Prabowo Targets 100 Gigawatt Solar Power Plants Within Two Years

President Prabowo Subianto has challenged his energy team to complete the construction of 100 gigawatts of solar power capacity within two years, accelerating from the original three-year target. Speaking at the launch of the 100 GWp solar programme in Jembrana, Bali, he cited the government's faster-than-expected achievement in food self-sufficiency as evidence that ambitious targets can be met ahead of schedule.

Women's Voices: 27 August Must Not Become a Destructive Movement for the Nation

Imayati Kalean, founder of Ruang Suara Perempuan Indonesia, has urged that criticism of the government be channelled constructively rather than becoming destructive, particularly around the 27 August 2026 mobilisation. Speaking at the 'Indonesia Layak Dirayakan' event in Jakarta, she emphasised that Indonesia's 81 years of independence deserve celebration alongside continued critique. She also highlighted the need for women to play a greater role in national development and to strengthen digital literacy in the face of disinformation.

Forest and Land Fire Patrol in Gunung Tabur, Berau Finds Hotspots in Company Areas

A joint forest and land fire patrol in Berau Regency, East Kalimantan, discovered two medium-category hotspots within the concession areas of PT Fuji and PT Berau Jaya Energy. The patrol, involving police, military, and forestry personnel, immediately extinguished the fires and emphasised the importance of cross-agency coordination and community participation in preventing land and forest fires.

KRI Gajah Mada Scheduled for First Appearance at 81st TNI Anniversary

The aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi, soon to be renamed KRI Gajah Mada, is scheduled to make its debut at the 81st anniversary of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) in October 2026. The vessel will participate in the sailing pass parade and serve as a VVIP ship for the President and senior officials. The ship is currently en route from Italy and is expected to arrive in Indonesia between 15 and 20 September 2026.

BNPB: NTT earthquake death toll rises to 103

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has reported that the death toll from the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) has risen to 103, with three additional fatalities recorded. The number of injured has also increased to 1,666 people. The 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Nagekeo Regency on 15 August 2026.

Youth from 25 Countries Exchange Ideas at 22nd AYIMUN

Around 750 young people from 25 countries gathered in Kuala Lumpur for the 22nd Asia Youth International Model United Nations to simulate UN sessions and sharpen diplomatic skills. Organisers and officials, including a representative from the Indonesian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, emphasised the forum's role in building cross-cultural understanding and leadership. The event is part of a wider series, with follow-up conferences planned in Bali and Geneva later in 2026.

Central Java Prepares Weather Modification to Tackle Drought in 14 Regions

The Central Java provincial government is preparing to conduct weather modification operations to mitigate the impact of an ongoing drought expected to last until September. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued a warning status for 14 regencies and a standby status for 18 others due to low rainfall. Over 23.5 million litres of clean water have been distributed to affected areas, while the deputy governor has called for long-term improvements in water absorption infrastructure.

Bahlil Says 100 GWp Solar Power Programme Saves State Budget Rp73 Trillion Per Year

The Indonesian government has officially launched its 100 GWp solar power programme with a groundbreaking in Gilimanuk, Bali, alongside three other projects across the country. Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stated the programme is a strategic step towards national energy independence and security. It is projected to save the state budget by more than Rp73 trillion annually and create 5.52 million cumulative jobs.

DPR, E Kalimantan to maximize Mahakam block oil, gas potential

Indonesia's House of Representatives and East Kalimantan officials are working to maximise output from the Mahakam oil and gas block, focusing on exploration and technical investment to sustain productivity. Discussions centred on the 10 percent participating interest managed by regional enterprise PT Migas Mandiri Pratama and the smooth disbursement of oil revenue-sharing funds. The collaboration aims to strengthen regional economic growth and maintain a conducive investment climate for the upstream energy sector.

Launching 100 GWp Solar Power Programme, Prabowo: We Will Truly Stand on Our Own Feet

President Prabowo Subianto has accelerated the target for Indonesia's 100 gigawatt peak solar power programme from three years to two years, promising state honours for the energy team if they succeed. The programme is positioned as a cornerstone of the government's push for national energy self-sufficiency. Prabowo cited the faster-than-expected achievement of food self-sufficiency as justification for raising expectations on the energy sector.

Pertamina Distributes Aid to Community-Run Posts to Meet Needs of NTT Earthquake Victims

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga is distributing aid to 28 community-run posts in Reok District, Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, following a recent earthquake. The assistance includes staple foods and infant necessities, aiming to ensure all affected residents receive support. Local residents have expressed gratitude for the company's swift and targeted relief efforts.

Musical Instrument Warehouse in Cakranegara Destroyed by Fire, Losses Estimated at Rp 800 Million

A fire broke out at a musical instrument and sound system warehouse on Jalan Hasanudin, Pasar Sindu, Cakranegara, Mataram, causing extensive damage to the building's interior. The blaze, which burned for approximately 1.5 hours, resulted in estimated losses of Rp 800 million. No casualties were reported, according to the Mataram Fire Department.

283 Joint Personnel Intensify Cooling Operations for Kampar Forest and Land Fires, Hotspots Reduced to 2

A joint task force of 283 personnel is intensifying efforts to extinguish and cool peatland affected by forest and land fires in Kampar Regency, Riau. The operation focuses on ensuring underground embers are fully extinguished to prevent reignition, with two hotspots remaining in the same location. Authorities are also conducting investigations and enforcing the law while managing the fire.

Goodbye Red Dates! No More National Holidays Until Christmas

Indonesia has entered a four-month period without any national holidays or collective leave days following the Maulid Nabi Muhammad SAW holiday on 25 August 2026. The next scheduled break will be the Christmas collective leave and national holiday on 24-25 December 2026, which will provide a four-day weekend for many workers. The schedule is based on the Joint Ministerial Decree (SKB) of three ministers for 2026.

KRI Gajah Mada to debut at 81st TNI anniversary as VVIP ship

The aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi, to be renamed KRI Gajah Mada, is scheduled to make its first appearance at the 81st anniversary of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) in October 2026 as part of the sailing pass parade. The vessel will also serve as a VVIP ship for the President, ministers, and TNI officials during the naval parade. The ship is currently en route from Italy and is expected to arrive in Indonesia in mid-September 2026.

Prabowo Praises Danantara Performance, State-Owned Enterprises Begin to Turn a Profit

President Prabowo Subianto has lauded the performance of Danantara, crediting the investment management body with significantly boosting state-owned enterprise (BUMN) revenues. Several state companies that had been loss-making for decades are now recording profits, with income rising by hundreds of percent in under two years. Prabowo also called for tighter oversight of state finances and suggested Danantara's leadership deserves official state honours.

Sukhoi and Cassa Aircraft Skid in Succession at Hasanuddin Airport

Two aircraft have suffered runway incidents at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Maros, South Sulawesi, on consecutive days. A TNI Air Force Sukhoi fighter jet overran the runway on Monday, followed by a Cassa aircraft skidding on the north-south runway on Tuesday. Airport authorities confirmed both incidents and stated that flight operations continued normally using alternative runways.

To Prevent Misunderstanding, Legislator Stresses Importance of Clarification on Account Blocking in Pati Demo

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has urged the public to await official clarification regarding the blocking of Bank Mandiri accounts linked to a demonstration in Pati. Firnando Hadityo Ganinduto emphasised that the state-owned bank must follow its regulations and procedures, and that any legal process should be respected until a court ruling is final.

BMKG Declares Drought Warning Status for Ciayumajakuning Until 31 August 2026

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued a meteorological drought warning for the Ciayumajakuning region, effective from 21 to 31 August 2026. The warning follows more than 50 consecutive days without rain recorded at the Kertajati and Jatiwangi meteorological stations. Residents, farmers, livestock breeders and industrial operators are urged to conserve water and remain vigilant against forest and land fires.

East Kalimantan exports 231 tonnes of fishery products worth Rp38.6 billion

East Kalimantan Province recorded fishery exports of 231.6 tonnes worth Rp38.6 billion over the past month, reflecting improved productivity among local fishermen and aquaculture businesses. Frozen tiger prawns dominated shipments, contributing more than Rp24.6 billion and reaching markets in Japan, Taiwan, Malaysia, and the United States. The provincial government aims to strengthen the blue economy and create more jobs for coastal communities.

Arjuno-Welirang Forest Fire Reignites After Being Declared Extinguished

Forest and land fires in the Arjuno-Welirang area of Raden Soerjo Grand Forest Park in East Java have reignited after being declared extinguished on 21 August. Two active fire points remain below the summit, prompting intensified aerial water bombing operations. The blaze has so far affected 146.85 hectares, with hiking routes closed indefinitely.

Prabowo Attends Groundbreaking of 100 GWp Solar Power Plant Project in Gilimanuk

President Prabowo Subianto has officiated the groundbreaking of a 100 gigawatt peak solar power plant project in Gilimanuk, Bali. The initial phase targets 1,000 megawatt peak with battery storage, aiming to replace imported fuel with domestic renewable energy. The project is expected to save up to Rp 73.9 trillion annually in electricity costs once completed by 2029.

Achmad Bakrie Award XXII 2026 Returns, 4 Inspirational Figures Receive Prestigious Award

The Achmad Bakrie Award XXII 2026 has been held, recognising four Indonesian figures for their contributions in science and technology, health, social thought, and arts and culture. The award, themed 'Real Action for Indonesia', forms part of Bakrie Group's 84th anniversary celebrations. Recipients include pioneers in radar technology, medical bioceramics, Islamic moderation thought, and the arts.

BMKG Warns Very Strong El Niño in NTT Could Persist Until Early 2027

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned that a very strong El Niño phenomenon is affecting East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) and could persist until early 2027. The agency recorded an ENSO index of +2.99 in the Nino3.4 region, with a positive Indian Ocean Dipole also likely to develop until October 2026. Residents have been urged to conserve water and avoid open burning due to heightened drought and forest fire risks.

Rejecting Provocative Actions, PP SEMMI Urges Public to Prioritise Peaceful Democracy

The Central Board of the Indonesian Muslim Students Union (PP SEMMI) has called on all elements of society to avoid provocative actions that could divide national unity. Chairman Zulhadi Ariza outlined the organisation's stance, urging constitutional and dignified democratic expression while condemning anarchism. The group specifically rejected a planned demonstration by the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB) at the DPR building on 27 August, citing concerns over potential provocation.

ASITA NTT urges government to ensure destination safety after earthquake

The East Nusa Tenggara chapter of the Association of the Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies (ASITA NTT) has called on the government to verify the safety of tourist destinations before issuing official statements that would allow businesses to resume promoting visits to Flores following the earthquake. The association stressed that valid, verified information is essential to reassure travellers, noting that seven attractions suffered minor damage and two were severely damaged, while seven have reopened. It also highlighted the reopening of six airports in Flores as a positive indicator of recovering tourism accessibility.

Civil Registry Opens Free Services After Earthquake Destroys Residents' Documents

The Directorate General of Population and Civil Registration (Dukcapil) has deployed a team to Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, to restore administrative services and replace identity documents lost or damaged in the magnitude 7.7 earthquake. The initiative, ordered by Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian, aims to ensure affected residents can access social assistance and recovery programmes without charge. Local officials welcomed the rapid response, noting that valid documents are essential for aid distribution and post-disaster rehabilitation.

BKN Praises South Sulawesi Governor for Making ASN Talent Management a National Reference

The National Civil Service Agency (BKN) has praised South Sulawesi Governor Andi Sudirman Sulaiman for accelerating the implementation of talent management among civil servants (ASN). BKN head Zudan Arif Fakrulloh said South Sulawesi has become a national benchmark, being the only region outside Java with 100 percent implementation across local governments. The governor emphasised that talent management is not merely an administrative requirement but a foundation for building a professional and competent bureaucracy.

From extinguishing fires to preventing them from spreading

President Prabowo Subianto has taken direct command of forest and land fire handling in Sumatra and Kalimantan amid heightened El Nino-driven risks. His approach shifts the emphasis from deploying large forces after fires have spread to ensuring rapid response within one to two hours of hotspot detection. The strategy integrates satellite monitoring, community reports, field verification, and law enforcement into a single chain of early response.