Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 25 August 2026

Showing 351-400 of 1,030 articles

KAI to develop Malang Station for smoother passenger movement

State railway operator PT KAI plans to develop the Malang Station area in East Java by the end of 2026 to improve passenger mobility. The project will include parking facilities, pedestrian access, and spaces for micro, small, and medium enterprises. The move responds to rising passenger volumes, which average 7,600 per day during national holidays.

Gathering Coal and CPO Bosses, Here Is Rosan's Full Explanation on DSI

Danantara CEO Rosan Roeslani has assured exporters of coal, crude palm oil, and ferro alloy that the newly operational PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) will not disrupt existing commercial contracts. DSI, which began monitoring export transactions on 1 June 2026, is intended to enhance transparency, data integrity, and governance for commodities worth around US$70 billion in annual exports. Rosan stressed that DSI will not replace regulators or add bureaucratic layers, but will serve as a single verification point for export data and transactions.

350 Joint Personnel Deployed to Tackle Forest and Land Fires in Nabire

Around 350 personnel from the military, police and local government have been deployed in rotation to combat forest and land fires in Nabire, Central Papua. The joint task force is operating across two main sectors, Nabire Barat and Kimi, with support from fire engines, ambulances and patrol units. Authorities say the cross-sector approach is intended to speed up response and will be refined to improve effectiveness.

Dukcapil Deploys 6 Teams to Restore Residents' Documents in 7 NTT Regencies

The Ministry of Home Affairs' civil registry directorate has deployed six mobile service teams to seven regencies in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake. The teams are tasked with replacing lost or damaged identity documents and restoring administrative services in affected areas. The operation, ordered by Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian, includes providing equipment and supplies to local governments to ensure continuity of services.

Twenty Days After Sutrimo's Death and the Missing Trail

Forensic experts say identifying the cause of death of Sutrimo, the household manager of former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah, has been difficult because his body was exhumed 20 days after burial and was in an advanced state of decomposition. Examinations found no signs of violence, but experts are pursuing toxicology and histopathology tests, including soil samples, to detect possible poisoning. The family is also still waiting for the return of Sutrimo's personal belongings, which were not handed over when his body was taken to his hometown.

South Sumatra Forest Fires: Police Chief Assures Mitigation and Firefighting Efforts Continue to Be Maximised

South Sumatra Police Chief Inspector General Sandi Nugroho has reaffirmed that forest and land fire mitigation and suppression efforts are being intensified in collaboration with local government, the military, and the public. Seventeen people have been named as suspects in connection with forest and land fire cases. The police are also carrying out preventive measures and rapid response operations to prevent new fire outbreaks.

TNI Alpa Team Deployed to Extinguish Hard-to-Reach Hotspots in Way Kambas National Park

The Indonesian Army has deployed its specialist Alpa Team to tackle forest and land fires in Way Kambas National Park, Lampung, following a direct order from President Prabowo Subianto. The 40-strong unit was parachuted into areas inaccessible by land after thermal drone surveillance identified residual hotspots. Around 123 hectares have been affected so far, with additional hotspots detected in Rantau Jaya.

Gerindra Responds to Budi Arie on Accelerating 2029 Election

Gerindra Party spokesperson Sugiat Santoso has dismissed talk of bringing forward the 2029 general election, stating the party is focused on supporting President Prabowo Subianto's programmes. His remarks respond to Projo chairman Budi Arie Setiadi, whose comments on the possibility of an earlier election were later clarified by Projo as merely outlining various scenarios. The discussion has drawn attention amid broader political manoeuvring ahead of the next electoral cycle.

Forest and Land Fire Hits TNBTS Area in Bukit Sentong, Lumajang

A forest and land fire has broken out in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park (TNBTS) area at Bukit Sentong, Lumajang Regency, East Java. The cause of the fire remains unknown, and joint teams are working manually to contain the blaze due to the challenging hilly terrain. No casualties have been reported, but the extent of the damage is still being assessed.

East Java BPBD Intensifies Water Bombing as Hotspots Persist on Mount Arjuno

The East Java Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) is accelerating efforts to extinguish forest and land fires on Mount Arjuno-Welirang in Pasuruan Regency, with aerial water bombing now underway after ground patrols found remaining hotspots. Two fire points remain active below the summit and are difficult to reach by land, prompting the deployment of a helicopter capable of carrying 1,000 litres of water. The affected area has reached 146.85 hectares, with authorities hoping the aerial operations will fully extinguish the blaze.

Pertamina continues distributing aid to earthquake-affected residents in NTT

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga is actively distributing relief supplies to earthquake victims in Reok District, Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. The company has expanded its distribution beyond main command posts to 28 community-run shelters to ensure aid reaches all affected residents. Assistance includes staple foods and specific items for infants, with the company pledging continued support throughout the recovery period.

National Rice Surplus Does Not Guarantee Lower Rice Prices

Indonesia's projected rice surplus of 3.67 million tonnes in 2026 has not translated into affordable prices across all regions, with remote and island areas still facing sharp price spikes. Observers attribute the disparity to distribution bottlenecks, high logistics costs, and limited food infrastructure. The government is urged to strengthen distribution systems alongside maintaining its rice reserves.

Berau Regency Government Launches Weather Modification Operation to Prevent Forest Fires from Spreading

The Berau Regency administration in East Kalimantan has commenced a weather modification operation to induce artificial rain as a strategic measure to prevent and extinguish forest and land fires. The operation, supported by the National Disaster Management Agency, will run for five days using a Cessna 208 Caravan aircraft to seed clouds with salt. As of 24 August 2026, 169 fire incidents have been recorded in Berau, with approximately 386 hectares of forest and plantation land burned.

Prabowo Says No Public Holidays in His Cabinet: Those Who Can't Keep Up Should Step Aside

President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated the groundbreaking of a 100 GWp solar power plant project in Jembrana, Bali, on the Prophet Muhammad's birthday, emphasising that his cabinet works almost without recognising public holidays. He warned ministers and officials that those unwilling to accept the risks of public service should step aside, as many others are ready to replace them. The event underscored the government's commitment to advancing national energy infrastructure while observing the religious occasion through continued work.

Modern, a Moving Spirit

An opinion piece by a lecturer at Universitas Darussalam Gontor explores the philosophical meaning of 'Modern' in the name Pondok Modern Darussalam Gontor. The author argues that modernity in this Islamic educational institution is not about superficial change but a dynamic spirit of continuous learning, self-improvement, and service rooted in Islamic values.

Involving Musicians, Dompet Dhuafa Dedicates Sound of Humanity to NTT

Dompet Dhuafa has launched a charity concert series called 'Sound of Humanity' to raise funds for disaster recovery in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). The initiative, which began in Depok, West Java, aims to collect up to Rp 30 billion to support both emergency response and long-term recovery efforts. The concerts involve several Indonesian musicians and are intended to expand to other cities to broaden public participation.

Herman Deru Urges South Sumatra Residents to Unite in Facing Dry Season and Forest Fires

South Sumatra Governor Herman Deru has called on residents to strengthen mutual cooperation and maintain social harmony amid an El Niño-driven dry season and rising forest and land fire risks. Speaking after an Istisqa prayer in Palembang, he reported around 1,950 hectares of land affected by fires in 2026 and urged continued collaboration among government, security forces, and communities. He also appealed for solidarity with disaster-hit communities in East Nusa Tenggara.

Fire in Duren Sawit, East Jakarta, Destroys 37 Buildings, 125 Residents Displaced

A fire in Duren Sawit, East Jakarta, destroyed approximately 37 buildings and displaced 125 residents, though no injuries or fatalities were reported. Local authorities are preparing a mosque as a temporary shelter and coordinating aid from the disaster mitigation agency and social services. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Prabowo targets Indonesia to stop importing oil and LPG within three years

President Prabowo Subianto has set a target for Indonesia to cease all imports of oil and LPG within three years to strengthen national energy independence. The plan is supported by a 100 gigawatt peak solar power programme launched in Jembrana, Bali, alongside geothermal, gas field development and increased domestic oil lifting. Prabowo urged the Red and White Cabinet to work hard towards tangible achievements for national sovereignty and public welfare.

West Kalimantan Forest Fires: Joint Team Intensifies Extinguishing Efforts in South Singkawang

A joint team of police, military, disaster agency personnel, volunteers and residents is intensifying efforts to extinguish and cool down forest and land fires in Singkawang, West Kalimantan, after 11 hotspots were detected. The largest concentration of hotspots is in Pangmilang sub-district, with dry conditions and strong winds posing significant challenges. Authorities have urged the public to refrain from slash-and-burn land clearing and will increase patrols and awareness campaigns in fire-prone areas.

Prabowo: I Am Confident the 100 GW Solar Power Project Can Be Built in Under 3 Years!

President Prabowo Subianto has launched a 100 GWp solar power programme and challenged his energy team to complete it in under three years, citing the success of the food self-sufficiency team. The project, which requires US$73 billion in investment, is expected to reduce energy subsidy spending and create millions of jobs.

Minimal Rainfall: BMKG Reveals Factors Affecting Batam's Weather

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has attributed the low rainfall in Batam, Riau Islands, to low upper-level humidity and strong winds that limit the formation of rain clouds. The agency forecasts predominantly partly cloudy to cloudy conditions with temperatures between 25 and 33 degrees Celsius, while warning that prolonged dry periods could increase the risk of land fires. Residents are advised to monitor official weather updates, especially those active outdoors or in coastal waters.

BNPB Records 7,029 Aftershocks in NTT, 141 in the Last 24 Hours

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has recorded 7,029 aftershocks in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) since the magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck on 15 August 2026. Aftershocks are expected to continue for three to four weeks following the main quake. The death toll has risen to 103, with the highest fatalities reported in Manggarai and East Manggarai regencies.

Malaysia records unhealthy air quality in around 30 areas as haze spreads

Malaysia is experiencing widespread unhealthy air quality due to transboundary haze from forest fires in Indonesia, with nearly 30 areas recording elevated pollutant levels. The government has activated national action plans and stepped up enforcement against open burning, while health authorities report a surge in respiratory cases. The situation underscores the recurring regional environmental challenge posed by Indonesian land and forest fires.

Prabowo Affirms Commitment to Eradicate Corruption to Its Roots

President Prabowo Subianto has reiterated his administration's commitment to eradicating corruption at all levels, stating that all national assets must be managed honestly and patriotically for the people's benefit. Speaking at the launch of a 100 GWp solar power plant in Bali, he linked anti-corruption efforts to the government's capacity to fund disaster response and national development. The president acknowledged ongoing scepticism but insisted the government is serious about closing financial leaks.

Land Fire in Sekumpul Buleleng, Several Hotspots Inaccessible

A land fire has broken out in Banjar Dinas Lebah, Sekumpul Village, Sawan District, Buleleng, Bali, burning dry leaves and wood across multiple locations. Emergency responders from the Buleleng Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) have managed to extinguish some hotspots but remain unable to reach others due to difficult terrain. Personnel are continuing to monitor the situation from a distance.

Commemorating Prophet Muhammad's Birthday, Madiun City Government Revives Grebeg Maulud

The Madiun City Government has revived the Grebeg Maulud tradition after a seven-year hiatus to commemorate the Prophet Muhammad's birthday. The event, recognised as intangible cultural heritage, aims to preserve Islamic culture while boosting the local economy and community welfare. Residents enthusiastically participated in the procession and scrambled for the contents of the ceremonial gunungan offerings.

Prabowo promises award if 100 GWp solar power plants completed in two years

President Prabowo Subianto has pledged to confer a state honour on his energy team if they complete the 100 gigawatt peak (GWp) solar power plant programme within two years, ahead of the original three-year target. Speaking at the programme launch in Jembrana, Bali, he noted that the current national electricity capacity stands at 88 GW from coal, oil, gas and geothermal sources. The President also cited the food self-sufficiency programme, which was achieved in one year instead of four, as evidence that accelerated delivery is possible.

Prabowo launches 100 GWp solar power programme, challenges energy team to finish in two years

President Prabowo Subianto has officially launched a 100 gigawatt peak solar power programme, beginning with 14 projects totalling 5.3 GWp across six provinces. The initiative is part of the government's push for national energy self-sufficiency and reduced reliance on imported fossil fuels. Prabowo challenged his energy team to complete the full programme within two years, ahead of the three-year target.

Citing Successful Disaster Management, Prabowo: Our Nation Is Strong

President Prabowo Subianto has declared that disaster management efforts across several regions are beginning to succeed, attributing the progress to a large-scale government mobilisation of helicopters, aircraft, and thousands of personnel. Speaking at a solar power plant launch in Bali, he highlighted rapid responses in Aceh and East Nusa Tenggara as evidence of national strength. He also urged continued vigilance ahead of a potentially severe El Niño phenomenon this year.

President: Forest and land fire handling underway, resolved in several areas

President Prabowo Subianto has stated that Indonesia's mitigation efforts against the El Nino phenomenon, including the heightened risk of forest and land fires, are progressing well. He expressed optimism that the handling of fires in several locations could be completed within two weeks. The government has deployed extensive resources, including dozens of helicopters and aircraft for water bombing, as well as thousands of personnel.

Will the US Economic Embargo on Iran Succeed? Here's What Analysts Say

The United States has launched a new phase of economic pressure on Iran, expanding secondary sanctions to target any country, bank, or company that facilitates trade or financing for Tehran. The 'Economic Exclusion Operation' aims to make the cost of dealing with Iran outweigh any economic benefit. Analysts are weighing in on whether this strategy will achieve its goal of severing Iran's economic lifelines.

Bulog Deputy CEO ensures food stock security in Tanjungpinang

Perum Bulog Deputy CEO Marga Taufiq visited Tanjungpinang to verify operational readiness, stock availability, and food distribution. The visit included inspections of warehouses with a 7,000-tonne rice capacity and confirmation of substantial rice and cooking oil reserves. He stressed that stock availability must be supported by good quality management and distribution.

SAR team searches for three missing tourists at Karangpapak Beach, Garut

A joint search and rescue operation is under way for three tourists who went missing after being swept out to sea while swimming at Karangpapak Beach in Garut, West Java. The victims, aged 18 to 27, were pulled by strong currents on Tuesday morning, with two of them disappearing while attempting to rescue the first. Authorities have urged visitors to heed weather warnings and avoid swimming in areas with dangerous currents.

Pakistan Claims Significant Progress in Mediating US-Iran Conflict

Pakistan has reported significant progress in its mediation efforts between the United States and Iran following a strategic visit by Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir to Tehran. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi described talks with President Masoud Pezeshkian as positive and productive, with both sides discussing regional tensions and steps to restore a memorandum of understanding. Pakistan hopes the momentum will pave the way for lasting peace in the Middle East.

Syrian President Welcomes US Removal of State Sponsor of Terrorism Status

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has welcomed the United States' decision to remove Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism, describing it as the end of a painful chapter. The move, accompanied by sanctions relief, is seen as a further step in warming relations between Washington and Damascus following the fall of Bashar al-Assad. Syrian officials hailed the decision as a historic milestone that would unlock private investment and support economic recovery.

Medvedev: Russia needs guarantees all NATO hostilities are halted

Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of Russia's Security Council, has described NATO expansion as an existential threat to Moscow. He said Russia requires guarantees that it will not be attacked and that all hostile actions against the country will cease.

Karangasem Youth Raise Funds for NTB and NTT

Dozens of young people and students in Karangasem, Bali, held a street collection for disaster-affected communities in NTB and NTT, raising Rp 21.8 million in about two hours. The initiative was led by the Karangasem branch of the Indonesian Hindu Dharma Student Association (KMHDI) and involved several youth and student organisations. The Regent of Karangasem also made a donation and expressed support for the humanitarian action.

NU Rais Syuriah: Prophet Muhammad's Birthday should serve as a means of moral improvement

Rais Syuriah of the Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board, Prof KH Zainal Abidin, has urged Muslims to use the commemoration of the Prophet Muhammad's birthday as a means of strengthening moral character. He emphasised that the celebration should not be merely ceremonial but a moment for self-criticism and reflection on the practice of prophetic values. He also called on preachers and scholars to avoid coercive approaches in religious outreach and to uphold tolerance and harmony in Indonesia's diverse society.

Blockchain and AI-Based Entertainment Ecosystem Continues to Be Developed

Show Token, a blockchain and AI-based entertainment company, showcased its integrated ecosystem at Coinfest Asia 2026 in Bali. The company aims to expand its digital ecosystem and strengthen collaboration in the Southeast Asian entertainment industry. Its platform connects viewers directly with film production and distribution through a watch-and-earn model.

Pakistan reports significant progress in US-Iran mediation efforts

Pakistan has reported 'significant progress' following a visit by its army chief to Tehran aimed at reviving direct talks between the United States and Iran. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi described the meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian as positive and productive, expressing hope that the momentum could lead to lasting peace in the region. The discussions covered the Iran-US conflict, Middle East tensions, and steps to restore the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding as a basis for a comprehensive settlement.

Krakatau Steel Encourages Youth to Understand Strategic Role of Logistics for the Economy

PT Krakatau Steel is urging young people to recognise the strategic importance of logistics in the national supply chain and economy. The state-owned steelmaker highlighted logistics' role in creating added value and boosting industrial competitiveness during a campus event at Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa University. The company also outlined initiatives including support for the Zero ODOL 2027 programme and a Ro-Ro vessel service expected to improve distribution efficiency by 10-12 percent.

Prabowo Challenges Bahlil, Rosan and PLN Chief to Complete 100 GW Solar Power Plants in 3 Years

President Prabowo Subianto has publicly challenged his ministers and state-owned enterprise leaders to deliver 100 gigawatts of solar power capacity within three years. During the launch of the 100 GWp solar programme, he sought direct commitments from key officials including the Energy Minister, the Head of Danantara, and the CEOs of PLN and Pertamina. Prabowo stressed that the government must move beyond setting targets and demonstrate tangible results by 2029.

Foreign Investors Flock Back to Indonesia: Government Bonds Hunted, Rupiah Strengthens

Foreign investors have returned to Indonesia's government bond market in force, with daily net purchases reaching a 2026 high of Rp11.68 trillion on 20 August. The surge in inflows, supported by Bank Indonesia's monetary incentives and improved fiscal prospects, has helped the rupiah strengthen by 1.58% during August after five consecutive months of decline.

Video: AI Optimisation Helps Hospitals in Operations and Cancer Treatment

Indonesia's Ministry of Health is strengthening domestic pharmaceutical and medical device independence through increased investment and technology transfer. The government is also using local content requirements to encourage high-tech mastery, including artificial intelligence applications in healthcare.

Thousands join Maulid Nabi procession in Denpasar's Kampung Islam Kepaon

Around 2,000 residents took part in the Ta'aruf Li Maulidur Rasul procession in Kampung Islam Kepaon, Denpasar, Bali, to mark the Prophet Muhammad's birthday. The annual event featured traditional ornaments and served as a space for fostering togetherness amid Bali's diverse society.

NTT Earthquake Death Toll Rises by 3, BNPB: Total 103 People

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has reported three additional fatalities from the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, bringing the total death toll to 103 as of the eleventh day of post-disaster response. The regencies of Manggarai and East Manggarai account for the highest number of deaths, while the number of injured has risen to 1,666 and displaced persons now total 185,113.

Prabowo stresses corruption must be eradicated to its roots

President Prabowo Subianto has reaffirmed his commitment to eradicating corruption to its roots, stating that all national assets and wealth must be managed for the people's benefit. Speaking at the launch of a 100 GWp solar power plant in Jembrana, Bali, he linked anti-corruption efforts to the government's ability to fund disaster response and other public services. Prabowo acknowledged doubts about his government's seriousness but insisted efforts to stop financial leakages would be intensified.

Duren Sawit Fire Victims Recount Hearing Explosion, Hope for Government Aid

Residents of Duren Sawit, East Jakarta, have described hearing an explosion as a fire destroyed rented houses and market stalls on Tuesday. No casualties were reported, with firefighters deploying 18 units and 90 personnel to tackle the blaze. Victims are now seeking government assistance after losing their belongings.

Forestry Minister pledges additional hydrant wells to prevent recurring forest and land fires

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has committed to increasing the number of hydrant wells in peatland areas to anticipate recurring forest and land fires. The minister highlighted the strategic role of existing wells built under the Peatland and Mangrove Restoration Agency programme in providing water supplies for firefighting. Local officials reported that 135 hotspots were recorded in East Tanjung Jabung between January and August, with 108 hectares of peatland burned.