Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 26 August 2026

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Investment Grows, Danantara Strengthens National Economic Impact in a Measured Way

President Prabowo Subianto has highlighted Indonesia's resilient investment performance despite a projected global economic slowdown, with national investment realisation reaching Rp1,931 trillion in 2025. The Danantara Indonesia sovereign wealth fund is positioned as a key driver of investment, overseeing 19 downstreaming projects worth Rp225 trillion and a waste-to-energy pilot project in Bali. Economists and business representatives emphasise that Danantara's success should be measured by its ability to strengthen domestic industry competitiveness and create multiplier effects for SMEs and local workers.

IHSG Plunges 1.48% to 6,405 as Selling Pressure Hits All Market Sectors

The Indonesia Stock Exchange composite index fell sharply on Wednesday, closing down 1.48% at 6,405.685. Selling pressure was broad-based, with all 11 sectors ending in negative territory and 583 stocks declining. Transport and logistics led the losses with a 4.15% drop.

Motorcycle Theft Gang Targeting Dawn Prayer Congregants Arrested in Tangerang

Police in Ciledug, Tangerang, have arrested two men suspected of stealing motorcycles from worshippers attending dawn prayers at local mosques. The suspects, one of whom is a repeat offender, are believed to have operated for a year, targeting mosques, housing estates, and rented accommodation. Authorities are continuing to investigate the network, including pursuing a receiver of stolen goods in Karawang.

Police Investigate Alleged Motorcycle Seizure by Debt Collectors in East Jakarta

Jatinegara police are investigating a viral incident in Cipinang Muara, East Jakarta, in which a young man's motorcycle was allegedly seized by debt collectors despite his claim that he had already paid. The victim said three men took his motorcycle and that passers-by ignored his pleas for help. Police have confirmed they are looking into the case even though no formal report has yet been filed.

KPK Seizes Three Luxury Motorcycles from Customs Corruption Suspect, Including Triumph and BMW

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized three luxury motorcycles from Gatot Heroe, a newly named suspect in an alleged import bribery case at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. The seizure is part of an ongoing investigation that has already resulted in convictions for three private sector bribe-givers and trials for four customs officials. The case highlights continued graft within the Finance Ministry's customs directorate.

Opening Roepa Merdeka Exhibition, Tri Tito Praises DWP BIN Installation Art Creativity

Tri Tito Karnavian, Daily Chair of the National Crafts Council (Dekranas), opened the Roepa Merdeka Installation Exhibition in Jakarta, highlighting its role in strengthening the creative economy. She noted that nearly 25 million people work in the arts and creative economy sector nationally. The exhibition, organised by the Dharma Wanita Persatuan of the State Intelligence Agency, also carries a mission of women's empowerment and cultural heritage preservation.

Iran: US will not achieve its goals through economic war

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has stated that the United States will fail to achieve its objectives through economic pressure on Tehran, following Washington's launch of a new sanctions campaign. Speaking after a meeting at Iran's Central Bank, he emphasised the need for close coordination between government and monetary institutions to maintain economic stability. The US Treasury has targeted more than 60 entities, individuals and vessels in what it calls 'Operation Economic Outcast'.

IHSG closes lower as market cautious over domestic risks

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) fell 1.48 percent to 6,405.69 on Wednesday as investors adopted a cautious stance towards domestic security risks and macroeconomic fundamentals. Market participants are closely monitoring planned protests at the DPR/MPR building and the fit-and-proper test for the sole Bank Indonesia governor candidate, Destry Damayanti. Regional Asian markets strengthened on signs of progress in Middle East talks, which eased concerns over global energy supply disruptions.

PKS Supports President Prabowo Until 2029, Calls 'Acceleration' Discourse a Political Provocation

The Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) has condemned remarks by Budi Arie Setiadi about a possible 'acceleration' before the 2029 election as a dangerous political provocation. PKS spokesman Pipin Sopian affirmed the party's support for President Prabowo Subianto to complete his full term, while urging political elites to avoid speculation that could destabilise democracy.

Oarfish Washes Ashore on Lombok's Pink Beach, Suspected Due to Climate Change and NTT Earthquake

A rare oarfish, often dubbed the 'doomsday fish', has washed ashore on Pink Beach in East Lombok, with officials linking the event to climate change and recent seismic activity. The head of NTB's Marine and Fisheries Agency suggested the deep-sea species may have surfaced due to temperature shifts in the Indian Ocean, possibly triggered by the recent earthquake in NTT. He urged the public to remain calm, noting that the myth associating oarfish with impending disaster lacks scientific evidence.

BGN to prioritise phased activation of 2,700 nutrition service units in 3T regions from September

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) plans to begin phased activation of around 2,700 completed nutrition service units (SPPG) in underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost (3T) regions starting September 2026. Priority areas include Papua, Maluku, North Maluku, East Nusa Tenggara, and West Nusa Tenggara. The agency is first ensuring governance, beneficiary data, incentives, and standard operating procedures are in place before operations commence.

Embracing Children at Evacuation Site, Prabowo Conveys Condolences to NTT Earthquake Victims

President Prabowo Subianto expressed his condolences to the people of Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, who lost family members in the M 7.7 earthquake on 15 August 2026. He assured that the central government is continuing to monitor the situation and send aid to assist evacuees. Temporary measures, including holding classes in tents, are being prepared for damaged schools.

DPD RI: DTSEN accuracy key to targeting PIP in West Papua

The Regional Representative Council (DPD RI) has stressed that the accuracy of the National Single Social and Economic Data (DTSEN) is crucial for ensuring the Indonesia Pintar Programme (PIP) reaches the right beneficiaries in West Papua. Committee III chairman Filep Wamafma called for transparent and thorough data updating and verification, noting that PIP distribution depends on data quality, school operator capacity, and banking access. He urged stronger coordination among ministries and local agencies to prevent eligible students from being excluded.

CIA Chief Secretly Visits Moscow to Meet Russian Officials, What Was Discussed?

CIA Director John Ratcliffe made an unannounced visit to Moscow, marking the first known trip by a US intelligence chief to the Russian capital since 2021. The visit comes amid heightened tensions, with Washington reportedly asking Ukraine to refrain from air strikes near Moscow while a senior US official was travelling. The trip also follows US warnings to other countries to sever business ties with Iran or face secondary sanctions.

Fire on Mount Geulis in Sukabumi Nearly Spreads to Residential Areas

A land fire on Mount Geulis in Sukabumi, West Java, threatened residential areas after breaking out on Tuesday evening. Firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control by Wednesday, though crews remain on standby due to concerns about remaining hotspots. Approximately four hectares of land were burned, with no casualties reported.

Prophet Muhammad's Birthday and Independence Day Become Momentum to Revive the People's Economy for Indonesia

The coinciding of Prophet Muhammad's Birthday 1448 H with Indonesia's 81st Independence Day in August 2026 is being framed as an opportunity to advance economic self-reliance. The Ministry of Religious Affairs has launched a national selawat movement, while Syarikat Islam has adopted a theme linking the Prophet's example to filling independence with care for the community. Both initiatives connect religious values with the goal of building economic independence and social welfare.

Prabowo targets re-greening of barren NTT areas within 10 years

President Prabowo Subianto has set a target of restoring tree cover in barren areas of East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) within approximately 10 years. The reforestation programme will involve local governments, universities, and research institutions, including the establishment of nurseries at provincial and district levels. The President also stressed the importance of environmental education to prevent slash-and-burn land clearing.

Australian defense minister urges action on Jakarta Treaty 2026

Australian Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles has called for swift development of operational steps for the Jakarta Treaty 2026 during the Indonesia-Australia 2+2 ministerial meeting in Melbourne. The treaty, signed in February 2026, strengthens defence cooperation including joint training, officer exchanges, and Australian investment in Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund Danantara. Both sides emphasised that the partnership is vital not only for bilateral security but also for regional peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.

Destry-Aida Test Results to Be Announced Tomorrow, Plenary Confirmation on 1 September

The results of the fit and proper test for Bank Indonesia Governor candidate Destry Damayanti and Senior Deputy Governor candidate Aida S. Budiman will be announced on Thursday, according to a member of House Commission XI. The announcement will be combined with the results for Deputy Governor candidates Solikin M. Juhro and M. Anwar Bashori, with the plenary confirmation of the central bank leadership scheduled for 1 September.

Southwest Papua Governor invites Forestry Minister to Papeda Summit 2026

Southwest Papua Governor Elisa Kambu has invited Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni to attend the Papeda Summit 2026 in Sorong. The governor emphasised the importance of central government participation in strengthening coordination on regional development agendas. The summit, initiated by over 50 civil society organisations, aims to promote sustainable development in Papua.

NTT Earthquake Death Toll Reaches 105, 6,094 Displaced Residents Begin Returning Home

Twelve days after a magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck Nusa Tenggara Timur, the death toll has risen to 105, while the number of displaced people has fallen by 6,094 as residents begin returning home. BNPB reports that aftershocks continue, with 7,492 recorded since the main quake, and full disaster response is expected to be completed within two weeks.

Fraudulent Crypto Exchange Collapses, Customer Assets Worth Rp 1.7 Trillion Stuck

Polish cryptocurrency exchange Zondacrypto has collapsed amid allegations of massive fraud, leaving thousands of customers unable to withdraw funds estimated at over US$96 million. The company's founder disappeared in 2022, while its CEO fled abroad as the platform went offline in April 2026. The scandal is now prompting calls for stricter European crypto regulation under the MiCA framework.

BNPB Releases Latest Data on NTT Earthquake, Death Toll Now Reaches 105

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has updated the casualty figures from the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, with the death toll rising to 105. The agency also reported an increase in injuries to 1,678, while the number of displaced persons has declined significantly by 6,094. The majority of fatalities are women and elderly people.

Jack Ma and Alibaba Executives Buy Shares to Support AI

Alibaba founder Jack Ma and senior executives have purchased company shares worth hundreds of millions of Hong Kong dollars, signalling confidence in the firm's pivot towards artificial intelligence. The purchases follow Alibaba's record HK$80 billion share placement in Hong Kong to fund AI and proprietary cloud development. Strong institutional demand for the new shares underscores investor backing for Alibaba's AI strategy despite concerns about short-term profitability.

Prabowo optimistic NTT can become food source for nation and world

President Prabowo Subianto has expressed optimism that East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) can become a food source for Indonesia and the world by developing its agricultural, fisheries and seaweed potential. Speaking during a coordination meeting on earthquake response in Nagekeo Regency, he urged local communities to think big and set high targets. The President also highlighted plans to open 8,000 hectares of farmland and 100 hectares of aquaculture, supported by desalination technology and solar power.

98 Resolution Network Discusses Silent Forces Recycling the August 2025 Protest Ahead of August 2026 Action

Haris Rusly Moti of the 98 Resolution Network claims the planned 27 August 2026 anti-corruption demonstration aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's policy direction, but warns that 'silent forces' are recycling the August 2025 unrest to provoke social chaos. He alleges the use of 'information laundering' to legitimise disinformation and undermine public trust in the government.

Bangka Belitung marching parade upholds spirit of struggle and peace

The Bangka Belitung Islands provincial government held a marching parade involving 108 student teams in Pangkalpinang to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. Governor Hidayat Arsani said the event served as a moment to preserve the spirit of struggle, togetherness and peace within society. The parade drew enthusiastic crowds along the route.

Economist Assesses Destry Will Continue to Uphold BI Independence

Permata Bank Chief Economist Josua Pardede believes that Bank Indonesia governor candidate Destry Damayanti will maintain the central bank's independence despite her emphasis on synergy with the government. He noted that BI's unique policy mix allows it to be more flexible than other central banks. Pardede also stressed that structural reform policies from ministries and agencies are key to supporting the economy.

Government Accelerates Standardisation of Air Cargo Tariffs to Lower Logistics Costs

The Indonesian government is moving to standardise air cargo tariff components and synchronise business processes following complaints from logistics association Asperindo. The association has raised concerns over overlapping security and airport charges, as well as inconsistent volumetric weight calculations that have increased shipping costs by up to 20%. The Ministry of Transportation will expedite a ministerial regulation to create a more transparent and efficient cost structure for air cargo.

Jakarta Stocks Plunge 1.48% as Investors Eye BI Transition, Political Risks

Indonesian stocks fell sharply on Wednesday, with the Jakarta Composite Index dropping 1.48% to 6,405 as investors weighed domestic political risks, the Bank Indonesia leadership transition, and global developments. Market participants are closely watching the parliamentary fit-and-proper test for governor candidate Destry Damayanti and a planned demonstration at the parliamentary complex, while easing Middle East tensions and hopes for Chinese policy support provided some offsetting relief.

Japan Defence Minister Contacts Indonesian and Australian Counterparts to Discuss Indo-Pacific

The defence ministers of Japan, Australia, and Indonesia held their first trilateral talks on Wednesday, agreeing to promote bilateral and trilateral defence cooperation. The discussion comes days after Jakarta and Beijing agreed to strengthen military ties following joint naval exercises east of Taiwan. The talks reflect Japan's efforts to counter China's growing military influence in the Indo-Pacific while Indonesia seeks to balance relations among major powers.

Prabowo pushes desalination for NTT

President Prabowo Subianto has directed the development of desalination technology to expand access to clean water in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), particularly for volcanic islands such as Palue. He wants domestically built desalination systems, developed with BRIN, the defence university and engineering faculties, to be deployed to areas in need. The initiative is part of a broader post-earthquake recovery strategy linking water, solar energy and economic development.

Sandiaga Uno Reveals 3 Economic Trends That Are Investment Opportunities

Sandiaga Uno, the businessman behind Saratoga Group, has identified green economy, wellness economy, and digital economy as the three sectors with the greatest prospects ahead. He believes sustainability is no longer optional but must be embedded in every business model. Sandiaga cited Indonesia's batik industry as an example of how green economy principles can be applied to reduce waste.

Former Condongcatur Village Head Remains Suspect in Village Treasury Land Misappropriation Case After Losing Pre-Trial Motion Against Yogyakarta Regional Police

The Sleman District Court has rejected a pre-trial motion filed by Reno Candra Sangaji, the former head of Condongcatur village, challenging his designation as a suspect in a village treasury land misappropriation case. The court ruled that the Yogyakarta Regional Police had met the minimum evidentiary requirements. Reno remains in detention and is accused of illegally leasing village land without gubernatorial permission, causing state losses of over Rp 1.7 billion.

IAPI Proposes Single Standard as Reference for Sustainability Assurance, Here Are the Objectives

The Indonesian Institute of Certified Public Accountants (IAPI) has proposed adopting a single international standard as the official reference for sustainability assurance. IAPI also called for equivalent supervisory infrastructure for all service providers before mandatory assurance takes effect. The institute warned that Indonesia's sustainability reporting ecosystem is not yet mature enough, creating risks of misstatement, bias, and greenwashing.

BGN audits 27,485 SPPG and temporarily suspends 463 MBG kitchens

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has audited 27,485 Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) across Indonesia, issuing provisional determinations for 27,022 units with verified orderly data. A total of 463 free nutritious meal (MBG) kitchens have been temporarily suspended for at least 10 days for failing to complete administrative requirements and technical feasibility verification. The move aims to prevent fictitious SPPG reports and ensure the MBG programme reaches its intended beneficiaries.

Families' Grief Erupts as 14 Newborn Babies Die in Hospital Fire

A fire at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences in Islamabad killed at least 14 newborn babies in the maternity ward, prompting Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to order an immediate investigation. Parents have demanded justice, citing closed ward doors and a lack of fire safety systems. The incident ranks among Pakistan's deadliest hospital fires in recent years.

South Sumatra Regional Police Distribute Rp1.06 Billion in Aid for NTT Earthquake Victims

The South Sumatra Regional Police (Polda Sumsel) has donated Rp1.06 billion to support communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). The funds were handed over symbolically and will be channelled through the NTT Regional Police to assist victims and aid post-disaster recovery. Police officials emphasised that the donation reflects the force's commitment to humanitarian missions beyond its law enforcement duties.

Iran warns war with US could spread across region

Iran's military spokesman has warned that any future war with the United States could expand across the region, potentially drawing in energy and communications infrastructure. Brigadier General Mohammad Akraminia said Iranian forces would consider any area where the enemy has interests a legitimate target in the event of aggression. The remarks come amid ongoing tensions following a US-Israeli attack on Iran and a subsequent ceasefire memorandum signed in June.

SKK Migas Declares Alert Level 1 for Oil and Gas Working Areas Amid Forest and Land Fires

Indonesia's upstream oil and gas regulator SKK Migas has declared alert level 1 as forest and land fires approach vital production facilities. The regulator is preparing to shut wells and prevent unplanned shutdowns while offering contract flexibility for gas utilisation. The move comes as President Prabowo Subianto orders severe sanctions, including licence revocation, for corporations found responsible for the fires.

Pursuing Sugar Self-Sufficiency, Agriculture Minister Accelerates Sugarcane Replanting and Expansion in Tulang Bawang

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman is accelerating national sugarcane development through new planting areas and replanting unproductive crops, aiming to meet President Prabowo Subianto's sugar self-sufficiency target ahead of schedule. The government has allocated Rp1.7 trillion to replant approximately 86% of smallholder sugarcane deemed unfit for production. National white crystal sugar output is projected to reach 3.02 million tonnes in 2026, a 13.1% increase on the previous year.

Avoiding Fraudulent Investments, CIMB Niaga Reveals 3 Foundations of a Smart Investor

CIMB Niaga has outlined three key foundations for novice investors to avoid falling victim to fraudulent investment schemes promising high returns in a short time. The bank emphasises understanding economic conditions, investment products, and personal risk profiles before committing capital. It also recommends a dollar cost averaging strategy as a safer approach to long-term investing.

KPK Investigates Allegations Bengkulu City Officials Received Cars and Apartments from Projects

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating allegations that private contractor Eno Bowo Susilo provided luxury cars, apartments, and houses to officials in the Bengkulu City Government. The probe is linked to the discovery of Rp 4 billion in cash at the home of the city's Public Works and Spatial Planning head. Investigators suspect the gifts were connected to project awards in Bengkulu City.

Visiting NTT Evacuees, Prabowo Offers Condolences and Asks About Free Nutritious Meals Programme

President Prabowo Subianto visited earthquake evacuees in Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, offering condolences and pledging government support for infrastructure repairs and temporary housing. He also asked residents about the Free Nutritious Meals programme and confirmed it would continue to support children, pregnant women, and the elderly.

Polda Metro Jaya prepares personnel to escort Thursday demonstrations

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police have deployed personnel across the capital to secure planned demonstrations on Thursday, coordinating with the military, the Jakarta provincial government, and internal security officers. At least two groups have formally notified the police of their intention to protest, with an estimated 500 demonstrators expected to concentrate near the House of Representatives building. Police have urged the public to be discerning about online information, citing a rise in disinformation and provocation.

Affected by Haze, Air Quality in More Than a Dozen Malaysian Areas Unhealthy

Sixteen areas in Malaysia recorded unhealthy air pollutant index (API) levels on Wednesday morning due to haze from forest and land fires in Indonesia. The highest readings were in Sarawak, with Seri Aman at 166, while parts of Peninsular Malaysia including Negeri Sembilan and Kuala Lumpur also exceeded 150. Malaysia has activated its haze action plan and is strengthening coordination with Indonesia, including offering cloud seeding assistance.

Indonesian actor Revaldo undergoes medical exam in latest drug case

West Jakarta Police are conducting a medical examination on actor Revaldo to assess the effects of alleged drug use before proceeding with detention. Police are also awaiting an assessment team's decision on possible rehabilitation, noting this is his fourth drug-related case. Revaldo faces charges under multiple narcotics provisions, including the Criminal Code and the Psychotropics Law.

Rp3 Trillion Project Underway: Bekasi to Process 500,000 Tonnes of Waste into 27 MW of Electricity

Indonesia's Danantara investment authority has broken ground on a Rp3 trillion waste-to-energy facility in Bantar Gebang, Bekasi, designed to process 500,000 tonnes of waste annually. The project is expected to supply electricity to 55,000 homes, cut landfill needs by 90%, and reduce carbon emissions by 640,000 tonnes per year. It forms part of a broader government push to streamline waste regulations and resolve the majority of Indonesia's waste problems by 2029.

Prabowo Disburses Total Rp200 Billion in Aid for NTT Earthquake Response

President Prabowo Subianto has allocated Rp200 billion in social assistance to support earthquake response efforts in East Nusa Tenggara. The funds comprise Rp40 billion for the provincial government and Rp20 billion for each of eight affected districts on Flores Island. The President stressed that the aid must be used exclusively for disaster management and urged regional governments to establish emergency food reserves.

Reviewing Muktamar Readiness, Gus Yahya: Do Not Use the Microphone Unless Invited by the Session Chair

PBNU Chairman KH Yahya Cholil Staquf inspected preparations for the 35th NU Muktamar at Bahrul Ulum Islamic Boarding School in Jombang, East Java. He expressed gratitude for the smooth preparation of facilities and emphasised the importance of microphone discipline during sessions. The visit also included a warm meeting with the boarding school's caretaker, KH Abdullah Rozaq, and reflections on the legacy of NU founder KH A Wahab Chasbullah.