Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 26 August 2026

Showing 851-900 of 1,599 articles

Rupiah Closes Slightly Stronger, US Dollar Falls to Rp17,695

The rupiah closed marginally stronger against the US dollar on Wednesday, reversing the previous session's losses. The movement coincided with the fit and proper test of Bank Indonesia governor candidate Destry Damayanti, who argued the currency is undervalued relative to its fundamentals.

Green Line KRL Services to Rangkasbitung Disrupted by Land Fire Near Tracks

Commuter line services on the Rangkasbitung route were disrupted on Wednesday after a land fire broke out near the railway between Daru and Tigaraksa stations. KAI Commuter reported that trains could only pass through the affected area using a single track alternately while firefighting efforts were underway. Passengers have been advised to follow instructions from officers on the ground.

Danantara COO Reveals Strategy to Strengthen SOEs Until They Turn a Profit

BPI Danantara's Chief Operating Officer Dony Oskaria has outlined the sovereign wealth fund's approach to consolidating and restructuring Indonesia's state-owned enterprises. The strategy involves benchmarking, revenue analysis, and sorting companies into four categories: liquidation, divestment, consolidation, and restructuring. Danantara has already closed 290 companies and aims to leave 254 solid, strong, and profitable SOEs by the end of the year.

Roy Suryo's Fourth Pretrial Motion Rejected, Polda Metro Jaya: We Respect the Ruling

The South Jakarta District Court has rejected Roy Suryo's fourth pretrial motion, which challenged a travel ban imposed by Polda Metro Jaya in connection with a defamation case involving President Joko Widodo's academic credentials. The judge ruled the motion was no longer relevant as the main case had already been transferred to court, changing Suryo's status from suspect to defendant. Polda Metro Jaya said it respects the decision and remains prepared to face any further legal challenges professionally.

Indosat and Huawei develop AI-based autonomous network

PT Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison and Huawei are strengthening their collaboration to develop an AI-based autonomous network, reaching Level 3 maturity with early agentic operations. The initiative has already reduced lost network working hours by 56 per cent and cut consumer and business customer complaints by 50 per cent and 32 per cent respectively. Indosat aims to become a globally recognised AI TechCo through AI development in its core business and ecosystem building in Indonesia.

Walhi West Java warns of potential extinction of Javan Green Magpie

Wahana Lingkungan Hidup Indonesia (Walhi) West Java has warned that the Javan Green Magpie, an endemic bird of West Java, is at risk of extinction due to environmental damage and illegal hunting. The organisation estimates only 50 to 250 individuals remain in the province's forests. Walhi is urging greater public and government awareness, including promoting the bird as a regional mascot.

Garibaldi Sails to Indonesia, Escorted by Italian Frigates and Met by Two Indonesian Warships

The Italian aircraft carrier ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi has departed Italy for Indonesia, with the voyage expected to take around three weeks. The ship will be escorted by Italian Navy frigates through the Red Sea and Arabian Sea before being met by at least two Indonesian warships upon entering Indonesian waters. The vessel is scheduled to arrive in mid-September 2026, after which it will be renamed and reflagged under the Indonesian flag.

South Sumatra Police Chief Opens Banyuasin Police Expo 2026, Stirs National Fighting Spirit

South Sumatra Police Chief Inspector General Sandi Nugroho opened the Banyuasin Police Expo 2026, using the occasion to promote collaboration between police and the public in maintaining security and public order. The event also served as an educational platform for young people on issues such as drug abuse, bullying, and the misuse of artificial intelligence technology.

Jakarta Transport Agency Confirms Parking Tariffs Have Not Increased: Still a Proposal

The Jakarta Transportation Agency (Dishub) has clarified that no parking tariff increase is currently in effect, dismissing circulating figures such as Rp60,000 per hour for cars as outdated proposals from 2019 and 2022 studies. Current tariffs remain governed by Governor Regulation No. 31 of 2017 and Regional Regulation No. 1 of 2024, with rates of Rp2,000 for motorcycles, Rp5,000 for cars, and Rp7,000 for buses and lorries per hour. The agency is instead focusing on improving parking management through digital payment expansion, enhanced supervision, and crackdowns on illegal parking.

Polda Metro Jaya and Bank Mandiri reactivate account of Pati activist

The Metro Jaya Regional Police and Bank Mandiri have reactivated the bank account of Supriyono, coordinator of the Pati United Community Alliance, after a temporary transaction suspension. Police stated that their investigation into the account, which contained funds raised for a demonstration, had been completed. Bank Mandiri confirmed it would promptly restore the account in accordance with banking regulations.

JFX supports government plan for strategic mineral and commodity exchange

The Jakarta Futures Exchange has expressed readiness to support the establishment of Indonesia's Strategic Mineral and Commodity Exchange (BMKS), citing its 27 years of market infrastructure and trading experience. JFX President Director Yazid Kanca Surya said the existing systems, clearing mechanisms and market ecosystem can serve as a foundation for the new exchange, which the government targets to launch on 1 January 2027. He highlighted JFX's tin trading record, where over 95 percent of national tin transactions were recorded through the exchange in 2024, as evidence that Indonesia is already becoming a price reference for its commodities.

Roy Suryo's Fourth Pretrial Motion Rejected by South Jakarta District Court, Judge Cites Abuse of Procedure

The South Jakarta District Court has rejected Roy Suryo's fourth pretrial motion challenging his travel ban in the alleged defamation case involving President Joko Widodo's university diploma. The judge ruled the motion was no longer relevant as Suryo's status had changed from suspect to defendant, and warned that filing successive pretrial motions after the main case had been transferred to court constituted an abuse of legal procedure.

Aida's Grand Vision: Make BI the Best Central Bank in Emerging Economies

Aida S. Budiman, the sole candidate for Senior Deputy Governor of Bank Indonesia, has outlined her vision to make the central bank the best among emerging economies. She presented her plans before Commission XI of the Indonesian House of Representatives, emphasising adaptability, acceleration, and innovation. Her strategy includes seven missions, with a key focus on strengthening fiscal-monetary synergy between the central bank and the government.

Danone Partners with Indonesian Red Cross to Deliver Rp 1 Billion Aid for NTT Earthquake Victims

Danone Indonesia has partnered with the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) to provide humanitarian assistance worth Rp 1 billion, along with 53,000 bottles of AQUA and nutritional products, to communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The aid was symbolically handed over by CEO Laurent Boissier to PMI Chairman Jusuf Kalla and will be distributed based on field assessments. PMI praised Danone for consistently supporting disaster relief, noting this marks the company's sixth contribution to disaster response efforts.

3 Kg LPG Consumption Soars Every Year, Consumers to Be Regulated Again

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources reports that consumption of subsidised 3 kg LPG cylinders continues to rise annually, reaching 5.5 million tonnes by July 2026, or 63% of the annual target. The government and Pertamina plan to restructure the distribution system to ensure subsidies reach only eligible consumers. Data validation efforts are underway in cooperation with the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Prabowo Accepts BNPB Proposal on Building Logistics Warehouses in Every Region

President Prabowo Subianto has accepted a proposal from the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) to ensure every regional disaster management agency (BPBD) has its own logistics warehouse and ready-to-use relief stocks. The proposal was made during a coordination meeting on earthquake response in Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. BNPB head Suharyanto highlighted that many regional warehouses are empty, leaving local governments unable to provide initial assistance before central government aid arrives.

Interpreting the Birth That Changed the World and Human Civilisation

This reflective essay examines the birth of Prophet Muhammad as a pivotal moment in human history, arguing that his legacy lies not in military conquest but in a radical shift in thinking that challenged structural injustices in sixth-century Arabia. It highlights the Charter of Medina as an early experiment in legal pluralism and urges readers to draw lessons about questioning normalised injustice in any era.

Budi Arie Urged to Publicly Account for Remarks Deemed to Cause Unrest

Former Minister of Communication and Digital Budi Arie has drawn sharp criticism for remarks made before President Joko Widodo regarding 'Change Before 2029', which some interpret as an attempt to unseat President Prabowo Subianto. PASPROBO chairman Saiful Chaniago has demanded a public clarification and apology, warning that such statements risk undermining constitutional legitimacy and sowing division.

UNM Develops GIVisNet, AI Innovation to Aid Early Detection of Gastrointestinal Disorders

Universitas Nusa Mandiri (UNM) has developed GIVisNet, an artificial intelligence-based innovation designed to assist in the early detection of gastrointestinal abnormalities. The project is funded by a 2026 research grant from the Directorate General of Research and Development at the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology. The initiative involves collaboration between lecturers, students, and medical professionals to ensure both technical and clinical relevance.

Viral Video Shows Man Allegedly Victimised by Debt Collectors in East Jakarta, Left by Roadside

A video circulating online shows a young man in tears on a pavement in Cipinang Muara, East Jakarta, claiming his motorcycle was seized by debt collectors despite having made payments. Police say no formal report has been filed but will investigate the incident.

Video: Danantara Praises Hery Gunardi's Success in Leading BRI Transformation

BPI Danantara's Chief Operating Officer Dony Oskaria has outlined the state investment body's progress in consolidating state-owned enterprise asset management since its launch in February 2025. The transformation includes restructuring Danareksa into Danareksa Investment, forming an industrial estate holding, and reforming state banks such as BRI, BNI and Bank Mandiri. Oskaria highlighted the appointment of capable leaders to drive banking reforms and strengthen business growth.

Soft Authoritarianism and the Disappearance of Our Opposition

The article examines the decline of political opposition in Indonesia under President Prabowo Subianto, drawing parallels with past authoritarian periods. It highlights concerns from prominent political scientists about the concentration of power, the weakening of checks and balances, and the emergence of a 'political cartel' that has left parliament resembling a rubber stamp.

Women's Craft Works Featured at Roepa Merdeka Exhibition

The Roepa Merdeka exhibition in South Jakarta showcases handicrafts made by women from the State Intelligence Agency's Dharma Wanita Persatuan. The event also offers free craft workshops and sells selected works to raise funds for donation. Organisers emphasise the exhibition's theme of celebrating women, preserving heritage, and weaving the future.

Prabowo Offers Condolences to NTT Earthquake Victims

President Prabowo Subianto has expressed his condolences to the victims of the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara during a visit to an evacuation post in Nagekeo Regency. He assured residents that the government is actively monitoring the situation and will continue to provide assistance. The President indicated that conditions are expected to stabilise within three weeks, after which temporary housing and repairs to damaged homes will commence.

NTB Museum salvages remaining artefacts from Sade Traditional Hamlet fire

The West Nusa Tenggara Museum has begun securing surviving artefacts from the fire-ravaged Sade Traditional Hamlet in Central Lombok. Officials have conducted two site visits to inventory and collect culturally significant items, including century-old weaving equipment and four damaged traditional textiles. The museum is working with local leaders to preserve what remains of the hamlet's heritage following the blaze.

Purbaya Presented with Cargo Cost Complaints, Now Exceeding Passenger Tickets!

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has heard complaints from logistics and airline associations that additional cargo charges now exceed passenger ticket costs. The logistics industry warns that layered fees are driving up shipping costs and threatening e-commerce, SMEs, and distribution to remote regions. Purbaya has urged the Ministry of Transportation to expedite regulations to prevent excessive charges and control logistics costs and inflation.

Prabowo Mania 08 urges calm ahead of 27 August protest

Prabowo Mania 08 has called on the public to maintain order and avoid provocation ahead of a planned demonstration on 27 August 2026. The group supports the right to peaceful, constitutional protest while urging security forces to verify information about the rally. It also voiced support for the immediate passage of the Asset Forfeiture Bill.

Prabowo: Rp20 billion aid per district in NTT has been disbursed

President Prabowo Subianto has confirmed that Rp20 billion in disaster aid for each affected district in East Nusa Tenggara has been received by local governments. The funds are earmarked exclusively for disaster response, with the provincial government also receiving Rp40 billion. The assistance is intended to support earthquake victims and communities affected by the ongoing Lewotobi eruption.

Government prepares Pertalite restriction system while improving DTSEN

The Indonesian government is developing a system to restrict subsidised Pertalite fuel for the top two welfare deciles while simultaneously improving the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN). Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa said the Finance Ministry has allocated nearly Rp7 trillion to Statistics Indonesia (BPS) to optimise data collection, with more accurate DTSEN expected next year. The restriction policy remains under review, and current distribution rules continue to apply.

KKP provides 16 Halal Clinics to support Mandatory Halal certification in October 2026

Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries has launched 16 Halal Clinics across eastern Indonesia to help businesses comply with mandatory halal certification requirements taking effect in October 2026. The initiative includes the appointment of 84 fisheries extension officers as Halal Product Assistants to support 300 MSMEs across seven eastern provinces. The programme aims to strengthen the competitiveness of processed marine and fishery products in modern retail and export markets.

2,000 Early Childhood and Kindergarten Children Show Movement and Creativity at Frisian Flag-PKK Yogyakarta City Movement Competition

Around 2,000 early childhood and kindergarten pupils in Yogyakarta City took part in the Gerak Cermat Frisian Flag competition, organised with the PKK to mark National Children's Day. Yogyakarta Mayor Hasto Wardoyo used the occasion to urge teachers and parents to monitor children's developmental progress, not just physical growth. The event aimed to promote healthy habits, motor skills, courage, and creativity through enjoyable physical activity.

Hashim assures NZE commitment aligned with economic growth

Indonesia's Special Envoy for Climate and Energy, Hashim Djojohadikusumo, has reaffirmed the country's commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2060 while pursuing high economic growth. He highlighted carbon capture technologies and the utilisation of fossil fuel resources as key strategies to balance energy security with emission reduction targets.

Magnificent Seven: The 7 Global Stocks in High Demand – What Are They?

The article explains the 'Magnificent Seven' – a term for seven mega-cap US technology companies: Apple, Microsoft, Alphabet, Amazon, Nvidia, Meta Platforms, and Tesla. It outlines why these stocks attract investors, including their global scale, strong brands, and exposure to technology trends such as AI and cloud computing. The piece also notes that Indonesian retail investors can access these shares and highlights that the group accounts for over 40% of the S&P 500's market capitalisation.

Jakarta Provincial Government Apologises for Delay in Kelapa Gading-Manggarai LRT Inauguration

The Jakarta Provincial Government has formally apologised for postponing the inauguration of the LRT Jakarta Kelapa Gading-Manggarai route, citing the need to ensure full accessibility for all passengers. Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo confirmed a flat fare of Rp5,000 will apply until October 2026, after which the tariff will be evaluated. The physical construction is complete, with operations now awaiting final approval from the Ministry of Transportation.

Led by Young Bankers, Dony Oskaria Expresses Pride in BNI and Bank Mandiri

BPI Danantara's Chief Operating Officer Dony Oskaria has outlined the state asset management body's progress since its launch in February 2025, including consolidation of state-owned enterprise assets and banking reforms. He highlighted transformations at Bank Rakyat Indonesia, Bank Negara Indonesia and Bank Mandiri, praising the latter two for being led by competent future bankers. The reforms are intended to strengthen the distribution channels and business growth of Indonesia's state-owned banks.

Malaysia Urges Southeast Asian Doctors to Strengthen Regional Robotic Surgery Collaboration

Malaysia is promoting stronger collaboration among medical professionals across Southeast Asia through the adoption of robotic surgical technology. The SSMART 2026 symposium in Penang brought together over 25 Indonesian doctors alongside regional counterparts to share clinical expertise and expand cross-border partnerships. Organisers emphasised that successful robotic surgery depends not only on advanced equipment but also on holistic team coordination and system readiness.

PSI Confirms It Will Reject Budi Arie Joining as Member

The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) has stated it will reject Projo chairman Budi Arie Setiadi if he applies for membership, citing a mismatch in values and track record. The decision follows Budi Arie's remarks about the possibility of changing the government before the end of its term. PSI considers such discourse contrary to its founding principles and has confirmed all party levels agree with the rejection.

New Snake Species Discovered on Papua Island Named After American Rock Star Slash

Scientists have named a newly discovered non-venomous ground snake from Papua New Guinea after Guns N' Roses guitarist Slash. The species, Lielaphis slashi, was first collected in 2006 but only recently confirmed as new through genetic testing. Researchers highlight the region's extraordinary biodiversity and warn that habitat loss from industrial activity poses the greatest threat to the species.

Starting from Pandemic-Era Content, Melali Bali Builds New Connections with Lovers of the Island of the Gods

Bali-based travel brand Melali Bali has leveraged digital content and live streaming to maintain emotional connections with travellers during the pandemic, transforming a promotional tool into a platform for shared nostalgia. As foreign tourist arrivals to Bali continue to recover, the company is expanding its offerings to meet renewed demand for travel packages, transport, and accommodation.

Farhan: Husein Airport reactivation eases Persib's Asian appearances

Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan has welcomed the reactivation of commercial flights at Husein Sastranegara International Airport, saying new international routes to Singapore and Malaysia will cut travel time for Persib Bandung in Asian competitions. Persib player Marc Klok also praised the move, noting the airport's proximity to the city centre saves time for the team and residents.

PLN EPI promotes community-based circular economy in Gunungkidul

PT PLN Energi Primer Indonesia (PLN EPI) is advancing a community-based circular economy in Karangasem Village, Gunungkidul, through a Black Soldier Fly maggot programme that converts organic waste into animal feed and organic fertiliser. The initiative, managed by the Ngupadi Rejeki Karangasem waste bank, processes an average of 561 kilograms of organic waste per month from 60 households and two food stall businesses. The programme generates economic benefits including monthly income from fish and egg sales, vegetable sales, and savings on animal feed costs.

BI Governor Candidate Destry Reveals How to Help Government Pursue 8% Target

Destry Damayanti, candidate for Governor of Bank Indonesia, has pledged central bank support for the government's 8% economic growth target. She emphasised that BI's mandate under the P2SK Law requires maintaining a conducive economic climate to boost the real sector and job creation. Destry stressed that such synergy with the government does not compromise the central bank's independence.

US and Bahrain Strengthen Operation Economic Outcast to Pressure Iran's Economy

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent met with Bahrain's Finance Minister Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa to discuss intensifying economic pressure on Iran through Operation Economic Outcast. The two sides agreed to enhance coordination with Gulf states to combat illicit financial flows and safeguard the integrity of the international financial system. Washington has imposed new sectoral sanctions targeting five key foreign financing channels for Iran.

Immigration system prevents foreign sex offender from leaving Bali

The Ngurah Rai Immigration Office in Bali used its immigration management system to prevent a 27-year-old Australian man from leaving Indonesia after he was identified in an indecent act case in Badung Regency. The man's data was entered into the Subject of Interest list, allowing officers to intercept him at the international departure terminal. He has been handed over to Badung Police for further investigation.

Peace Board Warns Against Flying Kites, Hamas Furious!

The US-created Peace Board overseeing the Gaza peace plan has warned Hamas to halt all militant activity, including kite flying, prompting an angry response from the group. Israel had earlier threatened retaliation over kites flown from Gaza into its territory. The UN has described Israel's threats as unacceptable, noting the kites were flown by children.

Police to Block Merak-Tangerang Toll Road to Prevent Demonstrators from Sumatra

Police in Tangerang are tightening security on routes into Jakarta ahead of a planned demonstration at the DPR building on 27 August 2026. Checkpoints will be set up on the Merak-Tangerang toll road and arterial routes to intercept demonstrators travelling from Sumatra. Officers will focus on buses and open-bed lorries, which have previously been used to transport protesters, including students.

Indonesia–China 2027–2031: Don't just chase investment

Indonesia and China have launched a five-year cooperation agenda covering trade, energy, minerals, maritime affairs, AI, food, health, education and security. The article argues that the key question is not whether Indonesia should work with China, but what kind of cooperation will strengthen Indonesia's productive capacity. It highlights the need to look beyond trade figures and ensure that imports, particularly of capital goods, translate into stronger domestic production capabilities.

Muhammad the Prophet, Sent as a Light When Mankind Was in Darkness

This article reflects on the life and mission of the Prophet Muhammad, describing his birth in 7th-century Mecca as a turning point for human civilisation amid moral decay. It highlights his exemplary character, commitment to justice, and concern for the marginalised, presenting his teachings as a timeless moral compass. The piece argues that modern society, despite technological progress, faces new forms of moral darkness that make his example increasingly relevant.

Zulhas Praises Army Involvement in Waste Management Across Indonesia

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan has welcomed the Indonesian Army's role in accelerating Waste to Energy projects, particularly in processing legacy landfill waste. Army Chief of Staff General Maruli Simanjuntak outlined plans to deploy pyrolysis technology at major landfill sites, though licensing and land availability remain key hurdles.

Plenary Session: Jakarta Legislators Highlight Population Control Bylaw

The Jakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) has raised concerns over the draft bylaw on population control, with the Democrat-Perindo faction urging stronger protection for native Jakartans, particularly the Betawi community. The faction also questioned provisions on administrative restrictions for new residents and called for clearer safeguards on sensitive personal data. They emphasised that demographic shifts, including a declining fertility rate and ageing population, require a more nuanced policy approach.