Archive: 26 August 2026
Showing 451-500 of 1,599 articles
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:36 WIB
Coordinating Minister: Expanding retail ecosystem to villages strengthens domestic trade
Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has called for the expansion of retail ecosystems into rural areas as a key measure to strengthen domestic trade. He said the government is encouraging the Red and White Village Cooperatives to distribute subsidised retail goods while also acting as buyers of local agricultural and fishery products. Airlangga also urged retailers to share knowledge and digital expertise with regional businesses to modernise village economies.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:35 WIB
Home Affairs Ministry Deploys Assistance Teams for Presidential Aid Utilisation in NTT
The Ministry of Home Affairs has deployed five field teams to assist with the utilisation of Presidential Aid for communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The move aims to ensure the funds are promptly used and managed accountably and transparently. The aid totals Rp 40 billion for the provincial government and Rp 20 billion for each of eight affected districts.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:35 WIB
Indonesian Shoppers vs Foreign Tourists: Retailers Reveal Surprising Spending Patterns
Indonesian retailers highlight a striking imbalance: Indonesians spend heavily on shopping abroad while foreign tourists rarely prioritise shopping in Indonesia. Industry leaders argue that improving product variety, pricing competitiveness, and regulatory support for global brands could transform Indonesia into a more attractive retail destination for international visitors.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:34 WIB
Bali Airport serves 13.2 million passengers up to July 2026
I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali handled 13.2 million passenger movements between January and July 2026, with international routes contributing the largest share. The airport also recorded 80,000 aircraft movements and 67,000 tonnes of cargo, while Australian tourists dominated foreign arrivals. Management described the figures as a foundation for maintaining smooth operations and service quality.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:32 WIB
Gerindra Legislator Joins Overnight Effort to Tackle Forest and Land Fires in South Kalimantan
Muhammad Rofiqi, a Gerindra Party member of House Commission XIII, joined firefighters and volunteers in Martapura, South Kalimantan, in the early hours of Wednesday to help tackle forest and land fires. He stressed the importance of safety and coordination among all stakeholders. Rofiqi called for synergy between government, security forces, volunteers and the public to prevent the fires from spreading to residential areas.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:30 WIB
The Journey from Manual Recording to the Digital Era: Officers Must Understand the System
The Directorate of Population Administration and Civil Registration at the Ministry of Home Affairs is focusing on upskilling thousands of Dukcapil officers across Indonesia as the service transitions from manual to digital systems. Officers who once relied on handwritten registers must now master integrated information systems, data security, and biometric applications. The directorate emphasises that human competence remains critical even as services become increasingly automated.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:30 WIB
Indonesian Citizens Put Brakes on Overseas Holidays Amid Weakening Purchasing Power
Weakening purchasing power, rising ticket prices, layoffs, and financial market volatility have prompted more Indonesians to cut back on overseas travel. Data from Bank Indonesia shows outbound travellers fell to 1.96 million in the second quarter of 2026, down from 2.5 million in the previous quarter. Inbound travellers, by contrast, rose to 4.01 million, and the travel services account still recorded a surplus of US$606 million.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:30 WIB
West Kalimantan Forest Fire Hotspots Exceed 2,610, BNPB Intensifies Weather Modification Operations
Forest and land fires in West Kalimantan have escalated, with hotspots exceeding 2,610 as of late August 2026. The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) is strengthening weather modification operations to induce rainfall over affected areas. Air quality in several regions has deteriorated to unhealthy and very unhealthy levels.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:29 WIB
Indonesia proposes strengthening ASEAN inclusive employment guidelines
Indonesia has called for stronger ASEAN guidelines on inclusive employment, particularly for persons with disabilities, by introducing measurable indicators. The Manpower Ministry emphasised the need for tripartite cooperation and practical implementation to build resilient labour markets across Southeast Asia.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:28 WIB
Nepal floods at China border kill 8, cause 'major casualties' in Tibet
Flash floods and a mudslide along the Nepal-China border have killed at least eight people in Nepal and caused major casualties at the Gyirong Port in Tibet, with hundreds reported missing, including foreign tourists. The disaster has damaged hydropower and solar facilities, disrupting electricity supply, and closed several highways. Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered all-out rescue efforts, while scientists warn that climate change is increasing the frequency of such extreme weather events in the Himalayan region.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:28 WIB
KPK Detains Kediri Customs Chief Gatot Heroe
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained Gatot Heroe Hernanda, head of the Kediri Customs and Excise Office, for an initial 20-day period following his examination on Wednesday. He is a suspect in a corruption case linked to the Directorate General of Customs and Excise, with investigators having seized three large motorcycles. The KPK is expected to detail the case in a press conference and has issued new investigation warrants based on evidence from a related import bribery trial.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:28 WIB
Schools Close Due to Forest Fires, BGN Regulates MBG Distribution
The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is coordinating with disaster task forces and regional governments to manage the distribution of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme after schools were closed due to forest and land fires. In several Kalimantan provinces, meals had already been prepared when schools were abruptly shut, prompting a mechanism for parents to collect the food. A formal SOP has been issued to ensure distribution remains orderly and does not hinder disaster response efforts.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:28 WIB
Reforestation of Pura Luhur Batukaru Protected Forest, Hundreds of Trees Planted
Hundreds of trees were planted in the protected forest of Pura Luhur Batukaru in Tabanan, Bali, as part of a collaborative effort involving government, customary communities, and the private sector. Officials emphasised that post-planting maintenance and ecological restoration are more critical than the number of trees planted. The Bali Tourism Board highlighted the tourism industry's direct interest in preserving water catchment areas that sustain hotels, restaurants, and villas across the island.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:27 WIB
Data Integration Poses Challenge for Fintech and Regional Bank Collaboration
Collaboration between fintech lending platforms and regional banks in Indonesia could expand access to financing for underserved communities, but differing systems, data management, and risk standards present significant hurdles. Business development director Shintya Maulida of PT Plus Ultra Abadi (UATAS) said such partnerships should combine technological capabilities with local economic knowledge rather than compete. She recommended a phased approach starting with pilot projects to manage risks before scaling up.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:26 WIB
Destry: Synergy with government does not mean BI loses independence
Bank Indonesia Governor candidate Destry Damayanti has asserted that cooperation with the government to boost economic growth does not compromise the central bank's independence. She emphasised that BI must balance stability with supporting growth amid unusual global economic challenges. Destry is the sole candidate for BI Governor following Perry Warjiyo's resignation.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:26 WIB
IKPI Chairman: Tax Consultants No Longer Spectators in Tax Reform
The Indonesian Tax Consultants Association (IKPI) is demanding a greater role in shaping national tax reform rather than merely following regulatory changes. Chairman Vaudy Starworld said the profession has been increasingly involved in strategic discussions, including the International Financial Centre Bill and the Tax Court Bill. He called on members to shift from passive compliance to actively contributing ideas for Indonesia's tax system.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:24 WIB
Beyond Fuel: Distribution of 3 kg LPG to Be Tightened According to Welfare Deciles
Indonesia's Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry plans to restrict subsidised 3 kg LPG purchases based on welfare decile data, mirroring a similar scheme being prepared for subsidised Pertalite petrol. The government is coordinating with the Central Statistics Agency and Pertamina to ensure energy subsidies are targeted at eligible households, particularly excluding high-income deciles 9 and 10.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:23 WIB
NasDem Legislator Denies Proposing Blocking of Botok Pati's Bank Account
NasDem legislator Muhammad Habibur Rochman has denied allegations that he proposed blocking the bank account of activist Supriyono, also known as Botok, intended for logistics of the 27 August rally. He stated his name was falsely used in a circulating letter and that he has no authority over banking or law enforcement matters. Bank Mandiri has since announced it will restore Botok's account following a request from House Commission III and the Metro Jaya Police.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:22 WIB
Jakarta to waive late fees to settle public housing rent arrears
The Jakarta provincial government plans to waive late payment penalties as part of efforts to resolve Rp95.5 billion in outstanding rent arrears for low-cost public flats (Rusunawa). Deputy Governor Rano Karno said the relief scheme targets low-income residents genuinely unable to pay, while maintaining oversight of those who deliberately neglect their obligations.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:22 WIB
Electric buses help reduce dependence on fuel oil, says ITDP
The Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP) Indonesia has highlighted that electric buses can significantly reduce the country's dependence on fuel oil. Land transport accounts for nearly 90 percent of fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions in the transport sector. President Prabowo Subianto has stated that various modes of transport in Indonesia will transition to electric power as part of the government's green and renewable energy strategy.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:21 WIB
Islamic Youth Movement Urges Public Not to Be Provoked by Demonstration
The Islamic Youth Movement (GPI) has declared its stance ahead of a planned demonstration by the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB) at the MPR/DPR/DPD building in Jakarta, calling on the public to reject provocation. The group stressed that democratic expression must remain dignified, constitutional, and peaceful, while asserting that AMPB has no legitimacy to claim representation of the entire Indonesian people. GPI also urged all youth to uphold national unity and avoid anarchic actions.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:20 WIB
President visits earthquake refugee post in Nagekeo Regency
President Prabowo Subianto visited an earthquake refugee post in Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, to ensure government handling and support for affected communities is running optimally. The visit involved inspecting conditions at the Berdikari Field shelter and engaging directly with displaced residents. Key officials accompanying the president included the National Police Chief and the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:20 WIB
Kick Off SMK Go Global: Vocational Graduates Ready to Compete on the Global Stage
Indonesia's Ministry for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (KP2MI) has launched the SMK Go Global programme to equip vocational school graduates with internationally recognised skills and certifications. The initiative aims to prepare 500,000 workers for overseas placement, targeting sectors such as caregiving, welding, hospitality, and manufacturing. The government stresses that the programme prioritises quality, protection, and procedural compliance over mere placement numbers.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:20 WIB
Elon Musk Increasingly Erratic, His Statements Make Less and Less Sense
Elon Musk has drawn widespread criticism after claiming that artificial intelligence will inevitably become uncontrollable, yet arguing that SpaceX must therefore be the first to build it. His remarks come after SpaceX's US$60 billion acquisition of AI company Cursor, and follow repeated controversies involving his AI product Grok, which has been linked to racism, hate speech and deepfake abuse. Observers warn that Musk's logic undermines safety, oversight and accountability in the race to develop advanced AI.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:19 WIB
Police Open Possibility of Mediation in Ruben Onsu Investment Fraud Case
South Jakarta Police have indicated that mediation remains possible in the alleged fraud and embezzlement case involving celebrity Ruben Onsu, though any settlement would depend on agreement between both parties. Investigators have scheduled Onsu's examination for 28 August 2026, with the investigation still proceeding. Police explained that Onsu has not been detained as he has met the conditions set out in Article 100 paragraph 5 of Law Number 20 of 2025.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:19 WIB
15 Internet Provider Poles Stand at One Point in Karangasem
The proliferation of internet service provider poles and tangled cables in Karangasem Regency, Bali, has drawn public concern over aesthetics and safety. The local Communication and Informatics Office has acknowledged the issue and is urging providers to maintain their infrastructure while coordinating with public works authorities on future pole placements.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:18 WIB
KKP: Seawater utilisation reaches 24 billion cubic metres per year
Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has recorded seawater utilisation of around 24 billion cubic metres annually across sectors such as power generation, aquaculture and salt production. The ministry stresses that large-scale, continuous seawater use requires proper standards and oversight, making permits for non-energy seawater utilisation a key compliance instrument. State-owned PT PLN Nusantara Power has become the first company within the PLN group to secure such permits for 16 of its power plants.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:17 WIB
Forestry Minister orders patrols to prevent forest fires in East Kalimantan orangutan habitat
Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has instructed routine patrols to protect orangutan habitats in Berau, East Kalimantan, from forest and land fires. He emphasised that fire prevention efforts must safeguard both public health and wildlife, particularly the Bornean orangutan. The minister also highlighted climate change as a factor behind increasingly frequent El Niño events.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:17 WIB
Government to Restrict Pertalite Distribution, Purbaya Focuses on Improving DTSEN
The Indonesian government is preparing a system to restrict subsidised Pertalite fuel to the ninth and tenth deciles while simultaneously improving the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN). Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa said the data is being refined with Rp 7 trillion in budget support for Statistics Indonesia (BPS), and the restriction policy will consider economic dynamics once the system is ready.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:16 WIB
Merdeka Gold boosts gold production via Pani gold mine
PT Merdeka Gold Resources Tbk is ramping up output at the Pani gold mine in Gorontalo, with first gold poured in February 2026 and quarterly production rising sharply. The company is developing both heap leach and carbon-in-leach processing facilities to lift recovery rates above 90 per cent. The expansion is expected to broaden economic activity around the mine through local workforce and business participation.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:16 WIB
Army Pledges Support for PSEL to Convert Old Waste into Diesel Fuel
The Indonesian Army has committed to supporting national waste management by processing long-accumulated landfill waste into synthetic diesel fuel using pyrolysis technology. Chief of Staff General Maruli Simanjuntak said the programme will focus on sorting and treating old waste at sites including Bantargebang, with a target capacity of 1,000 tonnes per day per facility. He acknowledged bureaucratic and regulatory hurdles, particularly regarding land status and fuel sales permits.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:15 WIB
Sudaryono Asks for Patience, Not Rushing to Open New MBG Kitchens
The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is temporarily halting the opening of new kitchens for the Free Nutritious Meals programme to focus on improving governance at the roughly 27,000 existing service units. BGN Head Sudaryono urged partners and banks to be patient while the agency resolves regulatory and coordination issues with several ministries and agencies.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:15 WIB
Telkom to Cut Subsidiaries to 18, Promises No Mass Layoffs
Telkom Indonesia has committed to avoiding layoffs as it streamlines its corporate structure from 67 entities to a target of 18 subsidiaries. The state-owned telecommunications firm aims to complete the consolidation by the end of the year, with the fibre connectivity spin-off to InfraNexia expected to be fully operational by 1 October 2026.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:14 WIB
PT Timah emergency response team extinguishes 97 forest and land fires in Bangka Belitung
PT Timah (Persero) Tbk's Emergency Response Team has tackled 97 forest and land fires across the Bangka Belitung Islands from January to 25 August, deploying six firefighting fleets in strategic locations. The provincial Satpol PP chief praised the state-owned tin miner's rapid response and coordination through the Si Jago Merah communication group, particularly during the current El Niño 'Godzilla' dry season. The company urged the public to stop deliberately setting fires and to help apprehend offenders.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:13 WIB
Observer Warns to Beware of Infiltrators at 27 August 2026 Demonstration
Political analyst Boni Hargens has urged security forces to remain vigilant against potential unexpected events during the 27 August 2026 demonstration in front of the DPR/MPR building in Jakarta. He identified three key risk factors: unverified rumours on social media, public fear and panic, and the presence of infiltrators exploiting the protest for their own agendas. Polda Metro Jaya estimates around 500 people will attend the rally.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:11 WIB
National selawat movement to run from 31 August to 7 September 2026
Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs has launched the National Selawat Movement, scheduled from 31 August to 7 September 2026 as part of the Prophet Muhammad's birthday commemorations. The initiative targets over 1.78 million participants nationwide and includes the recitation of Dalail Khairat as well as a series of prophetic biography studies. The ministry hopes the movement will help instil the Prophet's character in national life.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:10 WIB
Government targets land administration services to be completed within two weeks
Indonesia's Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency has set a maximum two-week target for land measurement and certificate title transfer services nationwide. The ministry has introduced scheduled measurement schemes and an integrated title transfer service to reduce waiting times. These bureaucratic efficiency measures aim to provide certainty, speed, and transparency for the public.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:09 WIB
KPK Detains Customs Official Gatot Heroe in Import Bribery Case
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained Gatot Heroe, Head of Supervision and Services at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise for the Kediri region, as a new suspect in an import bribery case. He was taken into custody immediately after questioning at the KPK building in Jakarta. The case has already resulted in convictions for three bribe-givers from PT Bluerray Cargo and ongoing trials for four customs officials.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:08 WIB
WhatsApp says system error caused mass account blocks
WhatsApp has attributed the blocking of numerous Indonesian user accounts to a system error in detecting activity deemed to violate its terms of service. The company stated the error was global in nature and not targeted at any specific users or parties in Indonesia. Users whose accounts remain blocked can appeal directly through the app, with reviews promised within 24 hours.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:08 WIB
Woman in West Sulawesi Dies After Being Forced to Abort, Boyfriend Attempted to Dispose of Body
A 26-year-old woman died in Polewali Mandar, West Sulawesi, after taking abortion pills procured online by her boyfriend. The boyfriend was caught attempting to dispose of her body, which had been wrapped in a mattress. Police have launched an investigation into the incident, which highlights the dangers of unregulated abortion medication and violence against women.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:07 WIB
From Flats to the Big Screen, Jaksinema Mini Cinema Brings Indonesian Films Closer to Residents
The Jakarta provincial government has opened Jaksinema, a 43-seat mini cinema at Pasar Rumput public housing, to improve residents' access to Indonesian films. Ticket prices are set at Rp15,000 on weekdays and Rp20,000 on weekends. The initiative is part of the Jakarta City of Cinema ecosystem and aims to stimulate creative economy activity in residential and market areas.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:05 WIB
NTB Governor stresses Sade reconstruction must not sacrifice authenticity
West Nusa Tenggara Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal has urged that the reconstruction of the fire-damaged Sade traditional village in Central Lombok preserve its historical and cultural authenticity rather than merely pursuing physical development. He emphasised that the indigenous community must lead the recovery process, with government playing a supporting role, and that safety improvements should be integrated without compromising the site's identity.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:05 WIB
Schools Closed Due to Forest Fire Haze, Free Nutritious Meals Programme Still Running?
The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has clarified that the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme will not be distributed to pupils when schools are closed due to forest and land fires. Meals already prepared on the first day of closure will be distributed via coordination with local authorities, but distribution will cease on subsequent days. The policy has been applied in affected regions including Central, South, and West Kalimantan, as well as parts of Sumatra.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:04 WIB
BNPB Reveals Total Number of Earthquake Refugees in NTT at 179,037 People
The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has reported a reduction in the number of earthquake refugees in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), with the total now standing at 179,037 people. The agency noted that some refugees have voluntarily returned home, while it continues to provide logistical support and assess housing damage. Aid distribution is ongoing, with substantial tonnage already dispatched to affected areas such as Labuan Bajo and Maumere.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:04 WIB
BNI Supports Pagi Sore to Strengthen Services and Customer Experience
PT Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) has expanded its partnership with Padang restaurant chain Pagi Sore, providing digital transaction services, financial management solutions and promotional programmes. The collaboration aims to boost operational efficiency and customer experience as the Minang culinary brand modernises its operations. Both parties see the partnership as contributing to sustainable growth for Indonesian businesses and the national economy.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:03 WIB
Prabowo Says NTT Earthquake Situation Relatively Safe Only in Three Weeks
President Prabowo Subianto has urged residents affected by the 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, to be patient, stating that conditions are expected to be relatively safe within three weeks. He pledged that the government will then build temporary housing, repair homes, and provide further assistance. The Governor of NTT reported that each district on Flores has received Rp20 billion in central government aid, while the provincial government received Rp40 billion.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:03 WIB
BNPB: 6,094 Earthquake Evacuees in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara Begin Returning Home
The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has reported that 6,094 evacuees affected by the earthquake in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, have started returning to their homes as aftershocks have subsided. Most of the returnees are from Sikka Regency, and the agency continues to provide food and supplies to support them. Aftershocks have occurred 7,492 times since the M 7.7 quake on 15 August 2026, though their strength is expected to diminish over the coming weeks.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:03 WIB
Zionist Israel dismantles UNRWA facility in Jerusalem
Israeli authorities have begun demolishing a UNRWA compound in Kafr Aqab, northern East Jerusalem, following legislation banning the UN agency's activities. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the move was directed under laws passed against UNRWA, citing alleged staff involvement in the 7 October 2023 attack. The dismantling follows the earlier destruction of UNRWA's East Jerusalem headquarters.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:02 WIB
PSI Responds to Budi Arie's Statement, Says It Supports Prabowo-Gibran to the End
The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) has reaffirmed its commitment to the Prabowo-Gibran government following remarks by Projo chairman Budi Arie Setiadi about the possibility of an accelerated 2029 election. PSI deputy chairman Andy Budiman said the party would oppose any attempts to topple the government mid-term and remains firmly within the ruling coalition. Budi Arie had earlier speculated about a 'speeding up of history' regarding Indonesia's political dynamics.
Wed, 26 Aug 2026, 18:00 WIB
PT BIBU signs contract to purchase three amphibious N219 aircraft from PTDI
PT BIBU Panji Sakti has signed a contract to purchase three amphibious N219 aircraft from state-owned PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI) to support its maritime logistics operations. The aircraft will be operated by subsidiary PT BIBU Agro Maritim to speed up distribution of high-value fishery products such as fresh fish, export-quality tuna and live seafood from Indonesia's eastern islands to markets. PTDI's chief executive said the contract demonstrates that the N219 is becoming a real solution for Indonesia's connectivity needs.