Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 26 August 2026

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AI Could Add US$15.7 Trillion to the Global Economy, What Does Indonesia Get?

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has highlighted artificial intelligence's potential to add US$15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030, with Indonesia's AI-related revenue growing 127% year-on-year in the first half of 2025. The government is integrating data centres, AI, and semiconductors to support its 8% economic growth target, while also developing digital talent and pursuing regional cooperation through the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement.

Pemuda PUI Highlights Transparency in Law Enforcement in Febrie Adriansyah Case

The youth wing of the Islamic Union Party (Pemuda PUI) has called for transparency and adherence to legal procedure in the handling of the case involving former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah. They emphasised that the pretrial mechanism is a legitimate part of Indonesia's legal system and should be viewed as a control instrument rather than an obstruction. The organisation urged the public to respect judicial independence ahead of the pretrial ruling scheduled for Thursday.

Reviewing NTT Earthquake Victim Handling, Prabowo: Those Who Work Hard and Sacrifice Must Be Rewarded

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed regional leaders in Nusa Tenggara Timur to identify and reward personnel who worked hard and made sacrifices in responding to the recent earthquake. He emphasised that appreciation should go beyond verbal thanks and take tangible forms. The remarks were made during a coordination meeting in Nagekeo Regency following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that killed at least 103 people.

Sjafrie Confident Indonesia-Australia Partnership Will Create Regional Peace

Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin expressed optimism that the growing defence partnership between Indonesia and Australia will contribute to regional peace and stability. Speaking during the 2+2 meeting in Melbourne, he highlighted the importance of the Jakarta Agreement signed in February 2026. Foreign Minister Sugiono echoed this sentiment, emphasising the strategic and enduring nature of the bilateral relationship.

Witness Admits Acting as Intermediary for Rp 1.8 Billion Entrusted to Customs Official

A former operational staff member of PT Mega Persada Globalindo testified that he acted as an intermediary for Rp 1.8 billion in payments from PT Infiniti Internasional Logistik to a customs official. The witness detailed five separate handovers between October 2025 and January 2026, involving cash in Singapore dollars and rupiah. The testimony was given at the Jakarta Corruption Court in the trial of Orlando Hamonangan, a customs intelligence section head accused of accepting bribes related to goods importation.

193 Kramat Jati fish traders to be relocated to Lokbin starting this week

The East Jakarta administration is relocating 193 fish traders from Jalan Raya Bogor in Kramat Jati to a designated location (Lokbin) as part of a broader effort to tidy up the area and enforce local regulations on public space use. The move follows complaints about traders occupying road shoulders and pavements, with all affected traders reportedly agreeing to the relocation. The city has prepared spaces within the Lokbin complex and will continue coordinating with trader representatives to ensure a smooth transition.

Satisfied with Himbara Performance, Danantara COO Praises Boards of Directors

Donny Oskaria, COO of Danantara and Head of the State-Owned Enterprise Regulatory Body, has expressed pride in the transformation of Indonesia's state-owned banks, citing strong profits and improved performance. He highlighted BRI's significant reduction in cost of funds and praised the leadership teams at Bank Mandiri and BNI. Oskaria said the changes are designed to ensure state-owned banks grow well while keeping risks under control.

Danantara: 100 GW solar power development requires Rp1,130 trillion investment

Indonesia's Investment Management Agency Danantara estimates that developing 100 gigawatts of solar power capacity will require approximately Rp1,130 trillion in investment. The agency highlights the need for a robust financing ecosystem to support renewable energy and green economy development. Danantara aims to act as an equity investor and 'engine of energy transition' through instruments such as Patriot Bonds and blended financing schemes.

Skilled and Adaptive Workforce Development Seen as Key to Realising Golden Indonesia 2045

As Indonesia pursues its Golden Indonesia 2045 vision, developing a skilled and adaptive workforce is considered essential for long-term economic growth. RMIT University Australia is advocating for a more integrated tertiary education system that places vocational training on equal footing with academic pathways. The push comes amid data showing vocational school graduates face an 8.63 percent open unemployment rate in 2025.

JCI Plunges as Investors Weigh Indonesia's Security Stability Risks

The Jakarta Composite Index fell by 1.48 per cent to 6,405.69 as investors remained cautious about domestic security stability ahead of planned demonstrations. Market attention also focused on Fitch Ratings' assessment of the 2027 state budget, the fit and proper test for the Bank Indonesia governor candidate, and developments in Asian markets.

Indonesian Police bust illegal gold smuggling network to Hong Kong

Indonesian police have arrested a suspect and uncovered a North Jakarta house allegedly used to refine and smuggle illegal gold to Hong Kong by concealing gold patches on people's bodies. The operation targeted a network linked to a Chinese national, GCZ, who is believed to have fled abroad. Authorities seized refining equipment, cash and documents, and will coordinate with the PPATK to trace financial transactions and assets connected to the illegal activity.

Police bust illegal gold smuggling network to Hong Kong

Indonesian police have arrested a suspect and uncovered an illegal gold smuggling operation in North Jakarta, allegedly run by a Chinese national who refined gold and smuggled it to Hong Kong by attaching patches to couriers' bodies. Investigators seized processing equipment, cash and transaction documents, and will coordinate with the PPATK financial intelligence unit to trace the network's finances and assets. The main suspect is believed to have fled abroad, and police are expanding their probe to identify other members of the network.

AAL1 Fire Brigade Strengthens Synergy to Prevent Forest and Land Fires in Tabalong

The Tabalong Regency Government in South Kalimantan is stepping up preparedness against forest and land fires as the dry season continues. PT Astra Agro Lestari (AAL)1 has deployed its fire brigade to join the 2026 disaster preparedness alert, reflecting a coordinated effort between local authorities, businesses, security forces, and the community. The initiative focuses on early detection, rapid response, and prevention through patrols and inter-agency communication.

Indosat & Arsari Group launch AI-based digital toll road company

PT Infra Fiber Teknologi, a joint venture between Arsari Group and Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison, has launched RAIA Grid, an AI-powered digital infrastructure platform. The initiative aims to strengthen Indonesia's digital ecosystem by integrating over 86,000 kilometres of fibre infrastructure with machine learning and agentic AI. The project is positioned as a strategic move towards developing domestic AI capabilities and potentially supercomputer manufacturing in Indonesia.

Bekasi Launches Waste-to-Energy Project, Electricity Priced at US$0.20 per kWh

Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund BPI Danantara has commenced construction of a waste-to-energy facility in Bekasi, West Java, capable of processing 500,000 tonnes of waste annually and generating 36 MW of electricity. PLN has signed a power purchase agreement to buy the output at US$0.20 per kWh, with 27 MW dedicated to supplying Bekasi residents. The project is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 640,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent per year and begin operations in mid-2028.

Indonesia turns to borewells as drought hampers firefighting

Indonesia is deploying deep borewells in peatland areas of Sumatra and Kalimantan as prolonged drought renders weather modification ineffective and surface water evaporates. The Ministry of Forestry, military and police are collaborating to drill wells that access underground water reserves to fight forest and land fires ahead of the September peak. Officials warn that dry conditions could persist for up to 60 days without rain.

NTB Provincial Government pushes for expansion of social security coverage for workers

The West Nusa Tenggara provincial government is urging districts and cities to expand employment social security coverage despite fiscal constraints. Deputy Governor Indah Dhamayanti Putri highlighted the importance of protecting vulnerable workers, particularly women heads of households, and called on regional leaders to allocate budgets appropriately. She also praised BPJS Ketenagakerjaan as a strategic partner in social protection programmes.

IBS 2026 brings together government and battery technology players

The International Battery Summit 2026 in Jakarta has highlighted Indonesia's strategic opportunity to expand its battery industry beyond raw materials and electric vehicles into battery energy storage systems. Speakers stressed that building a competitive ecosystem requires stronger connections between research, technology, investment, manufacturing, and markets. The event positions battery development as central to both transport electrification and the country's renewable energy transformation.

Video: Prabowo Launches Molinas, Electric Motorcycle Industry Confident of Growth

President Prabowo Subianto has officially launched the National Electric Motorcycle Programme (MOLINAS) alongside its supporting ecosystem, as part of a government strategy to reduce fuel import dependency, lower vehicle costs for the public, and strengthen Indonesia's industrial self-reliance. The initiative is backed by Aismoli chairman Budi Setiyadi, who views it as a key driver for accelerating the energy transition, curbing air pollution, and reducing government energy subsidies.

Astra Agro Group in South Kalimantan Helps Tackle Forest and Land Fires in Ring One of Syamsudin Noor Airport

PT Astra Agro Lestari's South Kalimantan area has deployed fire brigade personnel and equipment to combat forest and land fires near Syamsudin Noor International Airport in Banjarbaru. The operation is coordinated through an integrated post with the provincial plantation and livestock agency, focusing on protecting the strategically vital airport buffer zone. The government aims to complete all disaster handling processes within the next two weeks.

BNPB: 4.6 million litres of water used in water bombing to tackle forest and land fires

Indonesia's disaster management agency BNPB has deployed 4.6 million litres of water in aerial firefighting operations across six priority provinces, but peatland characteristics and shrinking water sources continue to hamper efforts. Ground operations remain the primary method, with weather modification helping to trigger rain in some West Kalimantan districts. The public has been urged to remain vigilant and avoid activities that could spark new fires.

PKS: 'Acceleration' Discourse Before 2029 Is a Form of Political Provocation

The Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) has condemned remarks by Projo chairman Budi Arie Setiadi about a possible 'acceleration' before the 2029 election, calling them a dangerous political provocation. PKS spokesperson Pipin Sopian stressed that presidential term limits are constitutionally fixed and must be respected. He also noted that the statement was made in a video showing former president Joko Widodo beside Budi Arie, raising public questions.

Social Media Grows More Complex, Brands Strengthen Social-First Strategies

As social media becomes increasingly complex, brands are shifting towards social-first strategies that prioritise platform-specific behaviour and audience engagement from the outset. Creative agency Lengua has joined the Feel Good Network to strengthen this approach, bringing expertise in social media strategy, content production, and creator engagement. The move reflects a broader industry trend where understanding audience behaviour and digital culture is becoming more critical than sheer reach.

Bekasi Mayor Targets Bantargebang PSEL as Environmental Innovation Zone

Bekasi has commenced construction of a waste-to-energy facility in Bantargebang with a daily processing capacity of 1,500 tonnes. Mayor Tri Adhianto Tjahyono envisions the project transforming the area from a landfill into a hub for green industry and environmental innovation. He stressed that community involvement in waste sorting remains essential, as roughly 300 tonnes of daily waste will still exceed the plant's capacity.

Tangerang City Government Forms Cross-Sector Team to Identify Out-of-School Children

The Tangerang City Government has established a cross-sector team involving multiple regional agencies to inventory and address the issue of out-of-school children (ATS). The initiative aims to ensure every child has access to proper education through coordinated data collection, home visits, and targeted interventions. The programme also focuses on improving school quality and creating safe, child-friendly learning environments.

Sade Village Not Yet Registered as Cultural Site, Rp58 Billion Contingency Budget Could Provide Aid

The NTB Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) has highlighted that the traditional Sasak village of Sade in Central Lombok remains unregistered in the national cultural heritage database due to a lack of certified experts at the district level. Lawmakers are also scrutinising a proposed increase in the province's contingency budget to Rp58 billion, which could be used to support emergency transition assistance for fire-affected residents.

Southwest Papua Governor invites Environment Minister to Papeda Summit 2026

Southwest Papua Governor Elisa Kambu has invited Environment Minister Jumhur Hidayat to attend the Papeda Summit 2026 in Sorong. The governor stressed that environmental protection must go hand in hand with improving community welfare. The summit aims to strengthen collaboration between government, civil society and other stakeholders on sustainable development in Papua.

17-Year-Old Exploits NTT Earthquake Chaos to Burgle Homes and Steal Gold

A 17-year-old has been arrested in Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara, for allegedly burgling homes left vacant by residents fleeing earthquake aftershocks. Police say the suspect used a screwdriver to force open doors and windows, stealing electronics, gold jewellery, rice, and cash. The arrest follows multiple reported thefts in the Sernaru area, including from a noodle stall.

Changan Expands in East Java with Debut of Deepal S05 and Nevo Q05 at GIIAS Surabaya

Changan made its debut at GIIAS Surabaya 2026, introducing the Deepal S05 and Nevo Q05 electrified SUVs to the East Java market. The launch is part of the brand's strategy to widen access to electrified vehicles across Indonesia's regions. Both models are offered with competitive pricing and extensive warranty packages.

BNPB strengthens weather modification operations to utilise rain opportunities in tackling West Kalimantan forest and land fires

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) is intensifying cloud seeding operations to take advantage of potential rain clouds in combating forest and land fires in West Kalimantan. The agency has conducted multiple cloud seeding sorties and deployed water bombing helicopters along with thousands of ground personnel. The fires have burned over 38,000 hectares since the start of the year, with several areas reporting unhealthy air quality levels.

Bali Tourism Village Forum prepares disaster-resilient villages following Sade fire

The Bali Tourism Village Communication Forum (Forkom Dewi) is developing a disaster-resilient tourism village model in response to the recent fire that destroyed Desa Wisata Sade in Lombok. The initiative aims to establish mitigation standards and operational procedures for Bali's 245 tourism villages, many of which share similar characteristics with Sade, including traditional housing and reliance on natural and cultural assets. The forum is seeking collaboration with Bali's Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) to implement safety governance, CHSE standards, and visitor behaviour rules.

Polda Metro Jaya Estimates Up to 500 People to Join Tomorrow's Demonstration

Polda Metro Jaya estimates that around 500 people will participate in a demonstration outside the DPR/MPR building in Senayan, Jakarta, on 27 August, based on official notifications from community alliances. The police have confirmed that no demonstrators have been arrested or found carrying dangerous weapons and have urged participants to comply with the law. Thousands of joint personnel will be deployed to secure the event and manage traffic and public transport.

DKI assures Population Control Bylaw does not restrict right to reside

The Jakarta provincial government has assured that the draft regional regulation on population control will not limit anyone's right to reside, but rather aims to create orderly, inclusive, and sustainable population mobility governance. Deputy Governor Rano Karno stated that the policy is needed to balance population dynamics with the region's carrying capacity and to align development with Jakarta's character as a global city. The bylaw will also address population quantity and quality, including family planning programmes and improved health services.

Pelindo ensures smooth fuel vessel berthing at Pulau Baai Port

PT Pelindo Regional 2 Bengkulu has confirmed that fuel-carrying vessels are now berthing smoothly at Pulau Baai Port following the completion of dredging works that restored the shipping channel to a depth of 6.5 metres LWS. Two tankers carrying thousands of tonnes of Pertalite and other fuels docked successfully in late August, underscoring the port's improved reliability. The company says it remains committed to maintaining the channel and supporting fuel distribution across Bengkulu Province.

Bekasi City Waste-to-Energy Plant Targeted to Operate by Mid-2028

Construction of the Bekasi City Waste-to-Energy Plant (PSEL) has officially commenced, with operations targeted for mid-2028. The facility will process up to 1,500 tonnes of waste daily into electricity for PLN's grid. The project is expected to create nearly 1,000 green jobs and incorporates incineration and pyrolysis technologies.

World Changes, High-Paying Professions Now Become Unemployment Fields

The global labour market is being reshaped by artificial intelligence, with once-elite, high-paying professions now facing widespread redundancies. Sectors such as technology, financial services, and business consulting are undergoing permanent restructuring, with AI replacing white-collar roles that were previously considered secure. This has led to rising unemployment among senior professionals and significant lifestyle shocks for those accustomed to high incomes.

Revealed: Trump Defied Intelligence Warnings to Wage War on Iran

US President Donald Trump reportedly pressed ahead with strikes on Iran in February despite warnings from senior officials, including National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard, about the risk of a global energy crisis and a more hardline successor in Tehran. The Wall Street Journal reports that Trump dismissed concerns and later sought a ceasefire amid rising fuel prices and strong domestic support for ending the war. Negotiations ultimately collapsed, and Washington has since revived an economic pressure campaign against Iran.

NU Congress Final Voter List Set, 557 Eligible Voters Meet Requirements

The organising committee of the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress has finalised the permanent voter list, confirming 557 eligible voters out of 590 registered participants. The figure meets the quorum requirement for the congress to proceed. Approximately three per cent of representatives were excluded due to administrative issues, including deceased officials and outdated leadership data.

Puan Assures DPR Ready to Receive Public Aspirations, Urges Orderly Protests

House of Representatives (DPR) Speaker Puan Maharani has affirmed that parliament is prepared to receive public aspirations ahead of planned demonstrations on 27 August 2026. She called on protesters to maintain order during the rallies and indicated that DPR leaders are open to meeting demonstrators. At least four groups are expected to stage protests outside the parliament building in Senayan, Jakarta.

Iran Threatens to Halt Oil Exports from the Gulf Amid Fresh US Sanctions

Iran has threatened to block oil exports through the Gulf if regional states join the latest US economic sanctions against Tehran. Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council Mohsen Rezaei warned that any country supporting Washington's measures would be treated as an enemy. The threat raises the prospect of further disruption to the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.

High Rent and Quiet Stalls Drive Hundreds of Depok Street Vendors Back to the Roadside

Hundreds of street vendors in Depok's Cisalak Market area have returned to pavements and road shoulders after refusing to occupy relocation kiosks inside the market building. Vendors argue that the new location is quiet, while rent and service charges are too burdensome for small-scale traders. The Depok city government maintains that hundreds of empty kiosks and stalls are available and adequate to accommodate them.

Construction of Bantar Gebang Waste-to-Energy Facility Begins: A Project Profile

Danantara Indonesia has commenced construction of the Bekasi City Waste-to-Energy (PSEL) facility in Bantar Gebang, marking the second such project after Denpasar Raya. The project, mandated under Presidential Regulation No. 109 of 2025, will process up to 1,500 tonnes of waste per day and is expected to create nearly 1,000 green jobs. A power purchase agreement with PLN has been signed, with operations targeted for mid-2028.

Boni Hargens Confident TNI-Polri Have Effective Strategy to Maintain Security Tomorrow

Political and intelligence analyst Boni Hargens has expressed confidence that the Indonesian National Police (Polri), the military (TNI) and the State Intelligence Agency (BIN) have a mature collaborative strategy to maintain public order amid rumours of a planned protest on 27 August 2026. He urged proportional responses from all parties and cautioned against complacency, invoking the Black Swan Theory to highlight the possibility of unpredictable events. Hargens also called on the public, media and policymakers to avoid unfounded panic while remaining vigilant.

Why is NU Returning to the Pesantren?

The 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Congress in 2026 will be held at Bahrul Ulum Islamic boarding school in Jombang, a site deeply tied to NU co-founder KH Abdul Wahab Chasbullah. The location choice is framed as an act of cultural memory and political-cultural meaning, reconnecting the organisation to its roots. The article argues that returning to the pesantren helps NU reclaim its foundational legitimacy as it enters its second century.

Minister calls for treating haze from land fires as common enemy

Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar has urged Indonesians to treat haze from forest and land fires as a shared enemy due to its health and environmental impacts. Speaking at the national Maulid Nabi commemoration, he linked fire prevention to Islamic teachings on environmental stewardship. The ministry also launched national religious initiatives aimed at strengthening communal values and environmental awareness.

Bahlil Issues Geothermal Utilisation Permit for Mount Ungaran, Exploration Area Covers 29,800 Hectares

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has issued a geothermal utilisation permit for the Mount Ungaran working area in Central Java, covering 29,800 hectares across Semarang and Kendal regencies. The permit has been delegated to state electricity company PT PLN, which must still secure spatial planning, forest area use, and environmental approvals before exploration can begin. The environmental permit phase is expected to involve extensive stakeholder consultation.

Before Prabowo, Nagekeo Regent Claims Free Nutritious Meals Programme Improves Child Health and Reduces Domestic Violence

Nagekeo Regent Simplisius Donatus has urged President Prabowo Subianto to continue the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, claiming it has boosted school attendance and reduced domestic violence in the regency. Speaking during Prabowo's visit to earthquake-affected areas in Flores, he also highlighted the programme's role in supporting disaster relief efforts. The regent further requested the restoration of central government transfers that had been cut by IDR 148 billion.

Police Ready to Secure Public Aspiration Rallies, Urge Peace and Order

The Indonesian National Police has pledged to provide security for planned public demonstrations while calling on participants to remain peaceful and orderly. The force emphasised that freedom of expression is guaranteed by law but must be exercised responsibly and without disrupting public order.

PT WIKA Gedung new contract value grows 568 percent as of August 2026

PT Wijaya Karya Bangunan Gedung Tbk (WEGE) reported a 568 percent year-on-year increase in new contract value, reaching Rp775 billion as of August 2026. The company's contract portfolio is dominated by government projects, with public facilities accounting for 63 percent of project typology. WEGE also highlighted its low debt-to-equity ratio of 0.98 times and plans to divest over Rp1 trillion in assets to strengthen liquidity and focus on its core construction business.

PMI and Danone Indonesia Distribute Rp 1 Billion in Donations to NTT Earthquake Victims

The Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) and Danone Indonesia have provided humanitarian assistance to communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). The aid package includes Rp 1 billion in cash, approximately 53,000 bottles of AQUA water, and nutritional products. PMI Chairman Jusuf Kalla highlighted that this marks Danone Indonesia's sixth donation to disaster relief efforts, underscoring the company's commitment to ESG principles.

Hospital Damaged by NTT Earthquake, Patient Services Moved to Field Hospital

Hospitals in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, suffered cracks from the earthquake, forcing health services to relocate to field hospitals. The Ministry of Health is deploying additional health workers and volunteers to seven affected regencies. The earthquake has killed 105 people and displaced over 185,000 residents.

Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection visits children affected by Manggarai earthquake

Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Arifah Fauzi visited evacuation sites in Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, to comfort children and women affected by the recent earthquake. Accompanied by child psychologist Seto Mulyadi, she distributed toys and child-specific aid collected from religious organisations and business partners. The minister emphasised the government's collaborative, gotong royong approach in responding to the disaster.

Academic: Village Film Jamboree encourages film to become village culture

The National Village Film Jamboree 2026 aims to make filmmaking part of village culture and empower rural filmmakers to showcase their local identities. The event, supported by the Ministry of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions, includes workshops on village-friendly cameras and film editing. Organisers hope to overcome the stigma that villages are outdated by bringing film technology and creative opportunities closer to rural communities.

Post-Earthquake Recovery in NTT: Road Access Restored, Clean Water Becomes Top Priority

The Indonesian government is accelerating recovery of infrastructure damaged by the earthquake in Nusa Tenggara Timur, with national roads and bridges now back in operation. Clean water supply has been designated as the primary focus for affected communities. Heavy equipment remains on standby at landslide-prone points due to continuing aftershocks.

Zaahira's Story: From a Wooden House to Dreams at Sekolah Rakyat

Zaahira Ramadhani, a 13-year-old from a cramped wooden home in Koto Gaek, has found stability and renewed religious devotion after enrolling at Sekolah Rakyat Menengah Pertama 5 Solok. The state-run boarding school has given her a private room, structured study time, and a supportive environment, helping her academic performance improve. She now aspires to become an entrepreneur to help lift her family out of economic hardship.

Airlangga Reveals Effects of Zero QRIS Fees Before Retail Entrepreneurs

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto welcomed Bank Indonesia's decision to eliminate QRIS transaction fees for merchants, saying it will please business actors, especially retailers. He noted that QRIS is now used by 65.77 million users and accepted by 44.86 million merchants, with 96.68% being MSMEs. The zero-fee policy for transactions up to Rp100,000 takes effect on 1 October 2026 and is intended to boost purchasing power and accelerate digital economic growth.

Firm! Kiai Ubaid Asks President Prabowo to Ban State Apparatus from Intervening in NU Congress

KH Ubaidullah Shodaqoh, Rais Syuriyah of PWNU Central Java, has urged President Prabowo Subianto to prohibit all state apparatus from interfering in the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Congress. He raised concerns over alleged transactional politics and money politics surrounding the event. Kiai Ubaid stressed the need to preserve the congress's independence and integrity as the organisation's highest forum.

Law minister asserts Indonesia will not beg for royalties

Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas has declared that Indonesia will not beg for royalties but will instead demand fairness and transparency for its creative industry workers. Speaking at the Global Forum on Intellectual Property in Singapore, he highlighted Indonesia's proposal for a binding international instrument on digital copyright royalty governance at WIPO. He also called on ASEAN plus China and Korea to jointly pursue transparent and equitable royalty systems.

Prabowo Targets a Green NTT Within 10 Years

President Prabowo Subianto has set a target to transform East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), a province known for its arid regions, into a green area within a decade. The central government will support the construction of nurseries at provincial and district levels to expand the planting of productive trees and safeguard water supplies. The initiative also includes permaculture in mountainous areas and the use of desalination technology to improve access to clean water.

Mass WhatsApp Account Blocking Causes Uproar, Komdigi to Summon Meta for Explanation

Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi) is summoning Meta after the company failed to respond to a formal request for clarification regarding widespread WhatsApp account suspensions. Users across several countries, including Indonesia, reported their accounts being blocked and placed 'under review' by Meta. The ministry is demanding a direct explanation from the technology company.

Polda Metro estimates 500 protesters at DPR rally tomorrow

Jakarta police estimate around 500 people will join a public demonstration at the DPR/MPR complex on Thursday, based on notifications from civil society groups. Authorities have prepared security across the capital and urged participants to follow the law. Police also denied rumours of arrests and said they are facilitating the official notification process.

Bekasi Regency Satpol PP Demolishes Hundreds of Illegal Buildings on Balong Tua Secondary Canal

The Bekasi Regency Public Order Agency (Satpol PP) has demolished hundreds of illegal structures along the Balong Tua Secondary Canal to support irrigation normalisation and restore state assets. The operation covered 7.6 kilometres across Sukatani and Tambelang districts, involving 300 joint personnel from Satpol PP, the military, and police. Local officials emphasised the canal's importance for irrigating approximately 1,500 hectares of rice fields in the region.

DPR to Lend an Ear to Aspirations from 27 August Protest

House Speaker Puan Maharani has said the DPR is ready to receive public aspirations ahead of a planned demonstration outside the parliament complex on 27 August 2026. She urged protesters to maintain order and noted that DPR leaders have been meeting various community representatives, including academics and honorary teachers. The protest coalition has pledged a peaceful rally focused on demands for an asset forfeiture law and the death penalty for corruptors.

BNPB: NTT earthquake refugees decrease by 6,094 people

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) reported that the number of earthquake refugees in East Nusa Tenggara has decreased by 6,094 people, bringing the total to 179,037. The agency emphasised that residents returned voluntarily and were provided with supplies. Damage assessments are underway, with repair funds allocated based on severity, while aftershocks are expected to continue for three to four weeks.

Prabowo calls for tangible rewards for officials working hard on NTT earthquake response

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed governors and regents to identify and formally recognise personnel who worked hard and made sacrifices during the earthquake response in Nusa Tenggara Timur. He stressed that appreciation should go beyond verbal thanks and take a tangible form. The death toll from the magnitude 7.7 earthquake in Nagekeo Regency has risen to 103.

Indonesia's Farmland Holds Treasure Trove: 5 Commodities in Global Demand

Indonesia's agricultural exports reached US$6.83 billion in 2025, a 20.05% increase from the previous year, marking the highest growth among non-oil and gas sectors. Coffee remained the dominant export, while spices and fruits recorded strong growth, though edible bird's nest exports declined. The sector still accounts for only 2.53% of total non-oil and gas exports.

DPR Challenges Destry to Return Rupiah to Rp16,500

During a fit and proper test, House Commission XI member Dolfie Othniel Frederic Palit challenged Bank Indonesia governor candidate Destry Damayanti to restore the rupiah to Rp16,500 per US dollar, the level assumed in the 2026 state budget. Destry responded that BI cannot simply raise the BI Rate to support the currency and emphasised the need for coordination to control inflation.

Investment Continues to Grow, Danantara Urged to Expand Impact on Industry and Employment

Indonesia's investment growth remains robust despite a global slowdown, with analysts calling for Danantara Indonesia to ensure investments deliver broader economic benefits. The sovereign wealth fund is being urged to focus on projects that strengthen industrial capacity, create jobs, and generate measurable economic impact. Danantara is currently advancing 19 downstreaming projects worth around Rp225 trillion and a waste-to-energy pilot project in Bali.

Prabowo highlights free meals for vulnerable people

President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised the importance of the Free Nutritious Meals programme for disadvantaged communities, noting that while its impact may be less visible among better-off families, it makes a significant difference for those struggling. The Nagekeo regent reported that the programme has boosted school attendance to nearly 100 percent and provided additional income for residents involved in meal preparation, which he linked to a decline in domestic violence cases.

Jakarta One Running Series Invites Residents to Enjoy Jakarta Through Every Stride

The Jakarta One Running Series 2026 has been launched as a running event series combining sport, community and togetherness, held across five areas of the capital. Organised by PT Sasana Jiwa with the Jakarta provincial government, it forms part of the city's 500th anniversary celebrations. Governor Pramono Anung welcomed the initiative as a strategic effort to promote unity, active lifestyles and pride in Jakarta.

5 Most Popular International News Today

A roundup of major international stories includes long queues at Tehran petrol stations following new US sanctions, the dismissal of a Malaysian professor over controversial claims about ancient Malay civilisation, and the death of country singer Dolly Parton. Other items cover South Korean jets scrambling in response to Russian military aircraft and President Trump's insistence that a US-Saudi nuclear deal depends on normalising ties with Israel.

East OKU Police Chief Joins Forces with Forkopimda to Extinguish Peatland Fire

The East Ogan Komering Ulu (OKU Timur) Police Chief, AKBP Lalu Hedwin Hanggara, led a joint operation involving around 30 personnel from various agencies to extinguish a peatland fire in Rasuan Village, Madang Suku I District. The team successfully brought the blaze under control by 2.30 pm local time, preventing it from spreading to residential areas. The police chief also issued a stern warning against the practice of clearing land by burning, citing the severe consequences of forest and land fires.

DPR Oversees PT Pos Employee Rights and Demands Settlement of Rp 158 Billion Payment

The House of Representatives (DPR) has urged the government to expedite the disbursement of Rp 158 billion owed to state-owned postal company PT Pos Indonesia, following a meeting with its labour union. Lawmakers stressed that the payment, due from the Ministry of Social Affairs, is critical for the livelihoods of around 31,000 active employees and 28,000 pensioners. The DPR pledged to continue monitoring the company's financial recovery and its future as a logistics business.

Israel Expels Two Dutch Diplomats After Import Ban on Illegal Settlements, Netherlands Responds Firmly

Israel has expelled two Dutch representatives from the Gaza coordination centre in Kiryat Gat following the Netherlands' decision to ban imports from illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar announced the expulsion, citing what he described as a series of anti-Israel measures by the Dutch government. The move marks a significant escalation in diplomatic tensions between the two countries over settlement policy.

Pertamina emergency tents restore morning classes for SMPN 19 Bengkulu students

Pertamina Patra Niaga has provided emergency classroom tents through its corporate social responsibility programme after a fire destroyed eight rooms at SMP Negeri 19 Bengkulu. The assistance has allowed students to return to morning lessons, ending the temporary two-session schedule. The school is preparing to rebuild the damaged classrooms through a community-managed revitalisation programme expected to be completed within 120 days.

Observer: E-Voting Proposal Must Be Carefully Studied

Public policy experts have responded positively to the Ministry of Law's proposal to implement electronic voting for selecting regional office heads, while cautioning that human resources, system readiness, and a clear roadmap are essential prerequisites. Constitutional law expert Denny Indrayana argued that Indonesia is not yet ready for e-voting, citing the current political conditions and electoral system.

Director General of PPTR pushes for abandoned land enforcement

The Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning is urging regional land offices to shift from administrative management to active territorial control. The Director General of Land and Spatial Control and Enforcement stressed that land rights carry obligations, not just ownership. In East Java, over 11,000 hectares have been flagged as potentially abandoned since 2010.

Video: BRI Business Reform, Danantara Praises Hery Gunardi

Danantara has carried out a transformation of Indonesia's state-owned banks (Himbara) through structural strengthening and uniform branding. As part of this, Bank BRI's reform focuses on the micro segment while addressing underperformance in commercial and corporate lending by reducing the cost of funds. The bank's leadership has also been filled with individuals whose capacity and capability match the needs of the business reform.

Stock Market Close Today: IHSG at 6,405.69

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) closed down 1.48% at 6,405.69 on Wednesday as investors turned cautious over domestic security stability ahead of planned protests. Market attention focused on the planned demonstration outside the DPR/MPR building, the fit-and-proper test for the sole Bank Indonesia governor candidate, and Fitch Ratings' assessment of the 2027 state budget assumptions.

Pertamina Eco RunFest 2026 Brings 7 Environmental Initiatives

State-owned energy company PT Pertamina is set to hold its 13th Eco RunFest on 6 December 2026, featuring seven environmental initiatives ranging from recycled jerseys to waste management. The event includes collaborations with the Jakarta provincial government and local brand Manta Liberta, with all ticket profits channelled into environmental action.

Kramat Jati sub-district gathers street vendor coordinators to discuss relocation

Kramat Jati sub-district in East Jakarta has met with eight street vendor coordinators to discuss the relocation of traders from pavements and road shoulders along Jalan Raya Bogor. The move follows a city government order banning street trading in the area from 31 August 2026, in line with the Jakarta governor's instruction to tackle congestion and unsanitary conditions. Fish vendors have reportedly agreed in full to relocate, with 621 spaces prepared to accommodate traders.

AI technology detects 15 liver cancer cases missed in clinical trials

A Chinese-developed AI diagnostic model identified 15 liver cancer cases that were initially missed during a two-month real-world clinical trial, enabling patients to receive timely treatment. The DAMO LiON model, developed by Alibaba's DAMO Academy and partner institutions, demonstrated higher accuracy than general radiologists and reduced reading time by 27 per cent. The research was published in Nature Medicine.

Government Assists Son of National Hero Sayuti Melik, Secures Healthcare and Pension Funds

The Indonesian government is providing comprehensive support to Heru Baskoro, the 84-year-old son of national hero Sayuti Melik, who is facing health and financial difficulties. Social Affairs Deputy Minister Agus Jabo Priyono visited Heru at a care facility in Bekasi and confirmed coordination with the Foreign Ministry regarding his Canadian pension and the Health Ministry for his eye treatment. Heru and his wife returned to Indonesia in 2024 after living in Canada, but his pension payments stopped six months later, forcing them to sell assets to survive.

DPR affirms readiness to receive aspirations from 27 August demonstration

House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani has stated that the DPR is prepared to receive public aspirations ahead of a planned demonstration on 27 August 2026, while urging participants to maintain order. She noted that DPR leaders and commission heads have been meeting with various community representatives, including academics and honorary teachers. The Aliansi Masyarakat Pati Bersatu has pledged the protest will be peaceful, focusing on demands for the Asset Forfeiture Bill and the death penalty for corruptors.

Puan Affirms DPR Ready to Receive Public Aspirations, Urges Protesters to Maintain Order

House Speaker Puan Maharani has confirmed that the Indonesian House of Representatives is prepared to receive public aspirations ahead of planned demonstrations on 27 August 2026. She urged protesters to maintain order and avoid any unrest. Puan also noted that DPR leaders have been meeting with various groups, including honorary teachers and Pos Indonesia employees, to address their concerns.

Bekasi City Government urges residents to help resolve waste problem

The Bekasi City Government has called on residents to help tackle the city's waste problem, noting that the newly inaugurated waste-to-energy plant will not be sufficient on its own. The facility will process 1,500 tonnes of waste per day, leaving a daily shortfall of around 300 tonnes that requires community participation in waste sorting. Officials also highlighted the national target of building waste-to-energy plants in 40 major cities by 2027-2028.

Unsoed Rector Caught in Corruption Case, Observer Urges Evaluation of Education System

Education observer Indra Charismadji has called for an urgent evaluation of Indonesia's education system following the arrest of Universitas Jenderal Soedirman (Unsoed) Rector Akhmad Sodiq in a corruption sting. The KPK detained 14 people in connection with alleged bribery in student admissions, including at the university's medical faculty. The case highlights systemic governance weaknesses in state universities, with ICW recording 60 corruption cases in higher education since 2006.

CIMB Niaga Reveals 3 Scenarios for IHSG 2026, Highest Reaching 8,000

PT Bank CIMB Niaga Tbk projects the Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) to trade between 7,000 and 8,000 in 2026, based on consensus from partner investment managers. The bank outlines three scenarios—bull, base, and bear—with the most optimistic reaching 8,000. CIMB Niaga also cautions that high interest rates may increase corporate funding costs and dampen share valuations, advising investors to be selective and focus on fundamentally sound companies.

Barantin prepares assistance for prospective exporters in Palu through export clinic

Indonesia's Quarantine Agency (Barantin) is preparing assistance for prospective exporters in Palu, including MSMEs, through an export clinic, quarantine certification, and sanitary and phytosanitary compliance. The programme, formalised through a memorandum of understanding with the Palu city government, aims to improve the competitiveness of local businesses. Barantin will also strengthen digital services and traceability systems to support export readiness.

BNPB: 2,610 Forest and Land Fire Hotspots Detected in West Kalimantan, Visibility Below 1 km

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has reported 2,610 hotspots in West Kalimantan, with visibility reduced to under one kilometre. Across six priority provinces, thousands of hotspots and firespots have been recorded, with over 4.6 million litres of water deployed in aerial firefighting operations. Peatland fires, dwindling water sources, and weather conditions continue to hamper suppression efforts.

Civil Engineering Programme Launched at UMJ Tulang Bawang Off-Campus Study Programme

Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta (UMJ) has received official approval for a Civil Engineering study programme at its off-campus study programme (PSDKU) in Tulang Bawang, Lampung. The decree was handed over by the Head of LLDIKTI Region II Palembang to UMJ representatives on Monday. The new programme aims to develop human resources in construction, infrastructure, and regional development for Tulang Bawang and surrounding areas.

Rupiah strengthens as oil prices fall on Middle East peace hopes

The Indonesian rupiah is expected to strengthen against the US dollar as global crude oil prices decline amid growing hopes for peace in the Middle East, particularly following discussions between Iran and Oman on securing navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Doo Financial Futures analyst Lukman Leong noted that falling oil prices and the absence of significant domestic pressures support the currency, though investors will monitor planned protests. The rupiah is forecast to trade between Rp17,650 and Rp17,750 per US dollar.

Light Moment: Prabowo Jokes with Children in NTT, 'All He Remembers Is Oke Gas'

President Prabowo Subianto shared a light-hearted moment with children at an evacuation camp for victims of the M 7.7 earthquake in Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara. The children imitated his 'Oke Gas' dance from the 2024 presidential campaign, prompting laughter from the President. Prabowo was visiting the site to inspect public kitchen facilities, clean water sources, and shelter conditions.

Police Reveal Reason for Blocking Botok Pati's Account in Parliament

Jakarta Police have explained to the House of Representatives why they requested Bank Mandiri to block the account of Supriyono, also known as Botok, coordinator of the Pati United Community Alliance. The police said the action was based on information from social media and was intended to protect the account holder and donors. Following clarification, the police have requested the account be restored within less than five working days.

BI Senior Deputy Governor candidate: Monetary and fiscal policies may differ, but goals are the same

Aida S. Budiman, the sole candidate for Bank Indonesia Senior Deputy Governor, has emphasised that monetary and fiscal authorities can pursue different policies as long as they share the common goal of stability and economic growth. She outlined seven priority programmes, including data reform, financing diversification, and MSME development. The fit and proper test was held by House Commission XI on Wednesday.

Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs summons Meta over mass WhatsApp account bans

Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Kemkomdigi) has summoned Meta after numerous WhatsApp users in the country reported their accounts being suddenly blocked. The ministry said Meta failed to respond to a written request for clarification within one week, prompting the direct summons. Meta has acknowledged the issue and said it is working to restore access to affected accounts.

After NTT Earthquake, Prabowo Targets Reforestation Within 10 Years

President Prabowo Subianto has set a target of regreening barren areas in East Nusa Tenggara within approximately ten years through a coordinated reforestation programme. The initiative will involve regional governments, universities, and research institutions, with nurseries to be established at provincial and district levels. The President also emphasised environmental education and a ban on slash-and-burn land clearing.

Bekasi Waste-to-Energy Project to Begin Operations in 2028

Indonesia's Danantara investment authority has announced that the Ciketing Udik waste-to-energy facility in Bekasi, West Java, is targeted to begin operations in 2028. The Rp 3 trillion project is expected to process up to 500,000 tonnes of waste annually and generate electricity for PLN. The facility is part of a broader government mandate under Presidential Regulation No. 109/2025 to manage urban waste through environmentally friendly technology.

Central Information Commission urges public bodies to strengthen commitment to information transparency

The Central Information Commission has called on public bodies to strengthen their commitment to information transparency, warning that repeated 'uninformative' ratings in monitoring and evaluation reflect a deeper institutional problem. Chairman Handoko Agung Saputro stressed that transparency must become an institutional culture rather than merely an administrative obligation. He emphasised that the ultimate measure of success is whether the public can easily access information that is rightfully theirs.

President Prabowo Reviews Riau Forest Fires, Stresses Permanent Prevention

President Prabowo Subianto has ordered a shift from firefighting to permanent prevention of forest and land fires during a visit to Riau. He instructed the construction of boreholes and retention basins, continuous monitoring of vulnerable villages, and use of BMKG technology for early detection. The President also demanded a thorough evaluation of fire causes and pledged firm legal action against any violations.

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.

Rp60,000 Parking Tariff Deemed Worth Testing in Congested Areas

Indonesian Transport Society advisor Djoko Setijowarno has backed a proposed parking tariff of up to Rp60,000 per hour in Jakarta, arguing current rates are too cheap and fail to discourage private car use. He said the policy should be introduced gradually in high-density areas and paired with improved public transport and feeder services from satellite cities. Djoko urged the government to focus on reducing congestion rather than being distracted by debate over the specific figure.

Jakarta Transport Agency: Rp60,000 Parking Tariff Still a Proposal, Not Yet Decided

The Jakarta Transportation Agency has clarified that no parking tariff increase is currently in effect, dismissing circulating figures of Rp60,000 per hour as unapproved proposals from 2019 and 2022 studies. Current rates remain unchanged under existing regulations, with the agency focusing on digitalisation and enforcement against illegal parking.

Dedi Mulyadi Denies Joining PSI: Not Just Untrue, but a Hoax

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has firmly denied rumours that he plans to join the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI), calling the reports a hoax. He confirmed he remains Deputy Chairman of the Gerindra Party's Board of Patrons and has no intention of switching parties. A fellow Gerindra official also said he saw no signs of Mulyadi leaving the party.

House Commission VII: Industrial Estate Bill aims to better organise industrialisation

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission VII is drafting an Industrial Estate Bill intended to improve the organisation of industrialisation across the country. Lawmakers argue that industrial estates play a major role in absorbing labour and boosting regional economies, with around 180 estates currently operating nationwide. The bill is expected to provide legal certainty for investors while ensuring benefits such as local employment and corporate social responsibility for surrounding communities.

ESDM Sends 48 Silent Generators to Health Centres Affected by NTT Earthquake

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) is dispatching 48 silent generators to Nusa Tenggara Timur to support health services operating in emergency tents following the recent earthquake. The generators will be distributed across seven affected regencies to ensure reliable electricity for medical equipment. Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said the silent type was chosen to avoid disturbing patients receiving treatment outdoors.

Nusantara Battery drives self-reliance in ASEAN battery ecosystem

Indonesia and Malaysia are collaborating to develop a regional battery ecosystem through the Nusantara Battery initiative. The partnership combines Indonesia's cathode material development with Malaysia's pilot cell production facilities. The effort aims to build an independent ASEAN battery supply chain and reduce regional dependence on external technology.

Despite Ban, Landmines Again Become a Threat of War

The use of anti-personnel landmines is rising again as several NATO countries bordering Russia, including Poland, Finland and the Baltic states, withdraw from the Ottawa Treaty. Ukraine has also left the treaty, citing Russia's unrestricted use of mines, while experts warn that modern 'smart' mines will make post-conflict clearance even harder. The trend reflects a broader weakening of global arms control.

KP2MI ready to boost migrant worker competence through SMK Go Global

The Ministry for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (KP2MI) has launched the SMK Go Global programme to equip prospective migrant workers with globally recognised skills and certifications. The initiative targets 500,000 workers, including 300,000 vocational school graduates, for placement in countries such as Japan, South Korea, Germany and Australia. Training will be tailored to actual labour market demand across sectors including caregiving, welding, hospitality, nursing and manufacturing.

Purbaya Urges Swift Completion of Air Cargo Standardisation to Cut Logistics Costs

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has called for the immediate finalisation of rules standardising air cargo cost components and synchronising business processes to reduce Indonesia's relatively high logistics costs. The move responds to complaints from logistics association Asperindo about duplicate security and airport charges, as well as inconsistent volumetric weight calculations among airlines. The minister stressed the importance of the reform for inter-island goods transport, which is vital for the archipelagic nation.

Babysitter in Buleleng Hallucinates Seeing Dark Figure, Chases Police Patrol

A 31-year-old babysitter in Buleleng, Bali, experienced a severe mental health episode after reporting hallucinations of a tall dark figure. The woman, identified as MM, became uncontrollable and chased passing vehicles, including a police patrol car, before being secured by a joint team. She has been referred to Buleleng Regional Hospital for medical treatment, with the Social Affairs Agency providing support for her recovery and return to her family in East Nusa Tenggara.

Sembur Island Solar Power Plant Ready to Support 100 GWp Solar Programme

President Prabowo Subianto has inaugurated a 100 GWp national solar power programme, including a 1 MWp solar plant on Sembur Island in Batam developed by Pertamina NRE. The project, equipped with battery storage and productive-use facilities such as cold storage and ice makers, aims to provide 24-hour electricity to around 200 households. It is projected to save up to 320,000 litres of fuel per year and support the government's energy transition agenda.

Senior Deputy Governor Candidate Aida Reveals Heavy Rupiah Challenges in 2026

Aida S. Budiman, the sole candidate for Senior Deputy Governor of Bank Indonesia, has warned that the rupiah faces significant challenges in 2026 due to high global uncertainty. She emphasised that the central bank will focus on maintaining exchange rate stability rather than targeting a specific level. Aida also noted that a manageable current account deficit of around 3.3% of GDP could help support the currency.

Special Business Entity to Replace SKK Migas, Says MPR Deputy Speaker

The Indonesian government and parliament are preparing a new special business entity to take over the functions of upstream oil and gas regulator SKK Migas, following a Constitutional Court mandate. Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly Eddy Soeparno said the transition would be seamless and that the new entity must be strong, credible, and capable of attracting greater investment. The move is part of broader efforts to boost oil and gas production and reduce dependence on imports.

Batam Weather Forecast Today, BMKG: Potential for Rain

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has forecast rain for Batam and surrounding areas of the Riau Islands today, particularly from morning to midday. A wind shearline is supporting the localised growth of rain clouds, with light to moderate intensity expected. Sea conditions remain relatively calm with wave heights of 0.7–0.8 metres, though brief gusts may occur.

Hippindo stresses importance of modern retail adapting to technology

The Indonesian Shopping Centre Tenants Association (Hippindo) has urged modern retailers to embrace technological trends that are reshaping consumer behaviour. Speaking at the Indonesia Retail Summit and Expo 2026, the association also called for government support to maintain economic stability. The event aims to strengthen Indonesia's trade ecosystem through collaboration among stakeholders.

BPJPH urges regions to accelerate halal certification to boost income

The Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) is calling on regional governments to speed up halal certification, citing the sector's 27 percent contribution to Indonesia's GDP. With mandatory halal certification for food, beverages, medicines, cosmetics and textiles set to take effect in October 2026, BPJPH is collaborating with North Sumatra authorities and Bank Indonesia to expand the halal ecosystem.

West Lombok Regional Library Short of 900,000 Books, Residents Can Donate

The West Lombok Regional Library is facing a significant shortfall of around 900,000 books, with only 100,000 copies available against an ideal target of one million. The local archives and library agency plans to propose additional funding and may open a public book donation scheme if the budget is not realised. The agency also aims to revive village libraries to boost reading interest and reduce school dropout rates.

BGN coordinates MBG distribution as schools close due to forest and land fires

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. The agency has issued a standard operating procedure to ensure orderly distribution and prevent disruption to emergency response efforts. Meals already prepared before sudden school closures will be collected by parents, while distribution will be suspended during remote learning periods.

Bank Mandiri Denies Mass Withdrawals by Customers Amid Botok Account Controversy

Bank Mandiri's president director has dismissed reports of mass withdrawals by customers following the blocking of an account belonging to Supriyono, also known as Botok. Riduan assured that customer conditions remain normal and that the bank's share price has not been affected. He also confirmed the bank will promptly reactivate Botok's account in line with instructions from the police and House of Representatives Commission III.

Man Held at Gunpoint by Armed Robbers in East Jakarta, Motorcycle Stolen

A 22-year-old man was robbed of his motorcycle at gunpoint in Cakung, East Jakarta, in the early hours of Wednesday morning. Police arrested three suspects hours later at a rented house in North Jakarta. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about street crime in the capital.

World on Alert! New War Could Emerge, Russia vs UK

Russia has withdrawn its ambassador from the United Kingdom, citing unprecedented low relations and accusing London of choosing confrontation. The move comes as new UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham deepens support for Ukraine, including plans to share classified information for domestic Storm Shadow missile production. Moscow has warned it will destroy any such production sites, raising fears of further escalation.

New MBG Rule: Kitchen Heads Required On Site From 2 AM, No Kitchen Leader Means No Cooking

The Indonesian government is tightening oversight of the Free Nutritious Meals programme by requiring heads of Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units to be physically present at kitchens from 2 AM to 8 AM. The rule, announced by Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan, aims to ensure food is cooked to standard and not prepared too far in advance. Attendance will be monitored by the National Nutrition Agency through online check-ins and Zoom.

East Jakarta City Government distributes fire aid in Duren Sawit and Cipinang Muara

The East Jakarta City Government, through its Social Services Sub-department and the Indonesian Red Cross, has distributed emergency aid to residents affected by two separate fires in Duren Sawit and Cipinang Muara. Assistance includes bedding, food supplies, ready-to-eat meals, clean water, and sanitation facilities. Local agencies have also provided tents, lighting, and mobile toilets to support displaced residents.

IHSG Plunges 1.48% Today, Abandoning the 6,500 Level!

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) fell sharply by 1.48% to close at 6,405.69 on Wednesday, dropping below the 6,500 level. Heavy selling pressure saw 599 stocks decline, with the utilities, industrial, and property sectors leading the losses. Large-cap stocks such as Bank Rakyat Indonesia, Amman Mineral Internasional, and Bank Central Asia were the main drags on the index.

Witness Says He Was Called 'Stingy' After Offering Rp 50 Million to Customs Official

A logistics company owner testified that a customs official demanded monthly operational payments, initially rejecting his Rp 50 million offer as 'stingy' before settling on Rp 250 million per month. The witness said he made three payments totalling Rp 750 million to the official's subordinate. The testimony was given in the corruption trial of three senior customs officials accused of accepting bribes and gratuities worth Rp 78.8 billion.

Komdigi and Indosat develop young Papuan digital talent through GSIH

The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi) and Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison have launched the Garuda Spark Innovation Hub in Jayapura, Papua, to nurture local digital talent. The facility aims to connect young Papuans with training, industry, academia, and national technology ecosystems. It is integrated with the Indosat AI Experience Center Jayapura, which has been operating since 20 May 2025.

PBNU Reviews Final Preparations Ahead of 35th Congress Opening in Jombang

The Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU) has conducted final inspections of the 35th NU Congress venue in Jombang, East Java, focusing on digital registration systems and strict microphone discipline to ensure an orderly event. Chairman KH Yahya Cholil Staquf and Secretary General Saifullah Yusuf emphasised that the barcode-based registration would prevent unauthorised participants and streamline verification. The congress, held at Pondok Pesantren Bahrul Ulum Tambakberas, marks the beginning of NU's second century and is expected to produce strategic decisions for the organisation's future.

Ministry of Defence strengthens regional veteran data administration

The Ministry of Defence's Veteran Centre is improving administrative management and data verification for veterans in the regions to ensure their entitlements are delivered accurately and in accordance with regulations. The initiative follows the liquidation of Babinminvetcaddam and the transfer of veteran administration functions to territorial units. A workshop in Palu brought together personnel from Central and West Sulawesi to enhance data collection and verification mechanisms.

BGN suspends 463 SPPG for 10 days for data verification

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has temporarily suspended 463 Free Nutritious Meal service units (SPPG) for 10 days to complete and verify their data. The move is part of a broader effort to improve the governance of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme, with BGN cross-checking the operational status of all 27,485 recorded kitchens. BGN Head Sudaryono stressed that the suspension is a verification measure and does not necessarily mean the affected units are not operating.

BKN: All South Sulawesi regional governments develop civil service talent management

The National Civil Service Agency (BKN) has confirmed that all 25 regional government institutions in South Sulawesi have implemented talent management exposés for civil servants. South Sulawesi is the first province outside Java to achieve full participation across all its regencies and cities. The initiative aims to identify, develop, and place civil servants based on potential and competence to build a more responsive bureaucracy.

Video: Danantara Reveals Direction of Asset Management Restructuring at Danareksa

BPI Danantara's Chief Operating Officer Dony Oskaria outlined the consolidation of state-owned enterprise asset management, including the transformation of Danareksa into Danareksa Investment and the restructuring of Bank Himbara. The initiative aims to create a solid asset management ecosystem linked to banking distribution channels, with reforms at BRI, BNI, and Bank Mandiri to strengthen business growth and reduce funding costs.

GSIH 2026 Launched, Makassar Takes Part in Global Digital Ecosystem

Makassar has been selected as one of ten hub cities for the Garuda Spark Innovation Hub (GSIH) Global Hub 2026, launched by Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs. Mayor Munafri Arifuddin welcomed the initiative, highlighting its alignment with the Makassar Creative Hub and its potential to boost digital talent, innovation, and technology-based MSMEs. The programme aims to connect cities across Indonesia with a wider innovation network and foster shared responsibility in developing the national digital economy.

Prabowo Meets NTT Earthquake Victims, Offers Condolences to Those Who Lost Family

President Prabowo Subianto visited earthquake victims in Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara, following the M 7.7 tremor, expressing condolences to those who lost family members. He assured residents that the central government is prioritising aid and monitoring the situation closely. Temporary schools will be set up in tents, with permanent housing repairs expected to begin after a three-week safety period.

100 GWp Solar Power Programme Launched, PLN Ready to Support Acceleration of Renewable Energy Development

President Prabowo Subianto has launched Indonesia's 100 gigawatt peak solar power programme, beginning with 14 projects totalling 5,300 megawatt peak across the country. The initiative is projected to attract US$71.3 billion in investment, create 5.5 million jobs, and reduce emissions by 140 million tonnes of CO2 annually. State utility PLN has pledged full support for the programme, including developing five solar clusters in Bali with 1,000 MWp capacity backed by battery storage.

DPR urges decile data fix to protect public education rights

House of Representatives Commission X deputy chair MY Esti Wijayati has called on the government to immediately correct decile data after anomalies were found that could threaten citizens' right to education. She highlighted the case of a becak driver classified in the same decile as a DPR member, and a student who lost access to tuition relief and KIP Kuliah due to inaccurate data. Esti stressed that administrative errors must not cause students to lose their educational rights.

With Trump's Approval, King Salman One Step Closer to Securing Nuclear Site

President Donald Trump has formally submitted a proposed civil nuclear energy agreement with Saudi Arabia to Congress, triggering a mandatory review period that could grant the kingdom access to advanced US nuclear technology. The 30-year deal, contingent on Saudi Arabia joining the Abraham Accords, would allow American firms to export civil nuclear technology and require the construction of AP1000 reactors. Critics warn the agreement lacks permanent prohibitions on uranium enrichment and could weaken non-proliferation standards in an already volatile region.

Commemorating the Prophet's Birthday, Ummat Party Holds Discussion on Constitutional Court Ruling Abolishing Presidential Threshold

The Ummat Party held a monthly discussion to commemorate the Prophet Muhammad's birthday, focusing on the Constitutional Court's ruling regarding presidential candidacy and prophetic leadership values. The event featured several Islamic scholars and aimed to enrich participants' perspectives on constitutional issues ahead of the 2029 presidential election. Party officials emphasised that the Prophet's birthday should serve as an opportunity to reflect on leadership values in national life.

Polda Metro Jaya Unblocks Bank Account of Supriyono 'Botok'

Polda Metro Jaya has lifted the temporary block on the bank account of Supriyono, also known as Botok, a coordinator of the Pati United Community Alliance. The police clarified that the block was a precautionary measure to verify donation activities and protect the personal data of donors. The account, containing around Rp80.9 million in personal funds and public donations, is now fully accessible again.

Bank Mandiri to Restore Account of Pati Resident Botok

Bank Mandiri will reactivate the account of Supriyono, also known as Botok, after Jakarta Metropolitan Police clarified the fundraising activities linked to it. The account had been temporarily suspended pending verification of donations received. Police confirmed the suspension can now be lifted, and the bank will follow through accordingly.

Danantara says Bekasi waste-to-energy plant to operate from mid-2028

The Bekasi waste-to-energy facility in Bantargebang is expected to begin operations in mid-2028 after a groundbreaking led by Danantara Indonesia and Daya Energi Bersih Nusantara. The plant is designed to process up to 1,500 tonnes of waste per day into electricity for PLN, with power priced at USD 0.20 per kWh. The project is part of broader efforts to address Indonesia's urban waste emergency while creating green jobs and renewable energy.

Indonesia to Assemble AI GPU Chips by End of 2026 at Hashim-Indosat Joint Venture Plant

Indonesia will begin domestic assembly of Nvidia AI GPUs by December 2026 at a facility owned by PT Infra Fiber Teknologi, a joint venture between Indosat and Hashim Djojohadikusumo's Arsari Group. The plant, backed by approximately US$22 million in capital expenditure, aims to produce 140 to 150 H300 GPU units to meet soaring data centre demand. The company also plans a US$190 million submarine cable system to strengthen national digital infrastructure.

Bank Indonesia explains how the new KKI payment system works

Bank Indonesia has clarified that the new Indonesian Credit Card (KKI) is a deferred payment facility rather than a credit extension, allowing users to transact before funds are available. The instrument is intended to complement existing payment methods and increase digital payment penetration without promoting debt or excessive consumption. Launched on 17 August 2026, the KKI forms part of the Indonesian Payment System Blueprint 2030 and was introduced alongside an expansion of zero percent QRIS merchant discount rates for transactions up to Rp100,000.

Polda Metro Jaya Confirms Botok Pati's Account Can Be Reopened

Polda Metro Jaya has confirmed that the bank account of Supriyono, also known as Botok, a community activist from Pati Regency, can be reopened following a temporary transaction suspension. The police emphasised that the initial freeze was a precautionary measure to protect the personal data of Botok and his donors. Bank Mandiri has also pledged to reactivate the account promptly and apologised for any inconvenience caused.

Prabowo Targets Reforestation of Deforested Land in Indonesia Within 10 Years

President Prabowo Subianto has highlighted the loss of tree cover in East Nusa Tenggara and called for accelerated reforestation efforts, including the establishment of nurseries at provincial and district levels. He stressed that addressing the problem requires public education on land clearing without burning, alongside enforcement. The President also linked the region's deforestation to historical colonial-era timber exploitation.

Billy Mambrasar Pushes for UMKM Special Economic Zone in Batam to Boost Exports

Presidential Executive Committee member Billy Mambrasar has urged Batam and the Riau Islands to establish a Special Economic Zone dedicated to micro, small, and medium enterprises. The initiative aims to position UMKM as key players in export-import activities and address economic inequality in Batam. The proposal received positive feedback from local government officials.

South Korea scrambles fighter jets after Russian aircraft enter air defence zone

South Korea deployed fighter jets after several Russian military aircraft entered its air defence identification zone near the eastern islands of Dokdo and Ulleung on Tuesday afternoon. The aircraft did not violate South Korean airspace and later withdrew. The incident follows a similar intrusion by Chinese and Russian planes in late June, which prompted a formal protest from Seoul.

Prabowo Reveals Reason for Not Immediately Visiting NTT Earthquake Impact

President Prabowo Subianto has explained his decision to delay visiting earthquake-affected areas in East Nusa Tenggara, saying he wanted to give local officials space to focus on serving residents. He argued that large numbers of central government officials visiting disaster zones can distract regional authorities from their primary duties. The president stressed that the most important contribution from the centre is mobilising services and aid rather than symbolic visits.

MUI Secretary-General hopes NU Congress strengthens Islamic brotherhood and national unity

MUI Secretary-General Amirsyah Tambunan has expressed hope that the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Congress will strengthen Islamic brotherhood and reinforce national unity. He described the event as a strategic national moment amid rapid modernisation and global geopolitical dynamics. The congress is scheduled to take place from 27 to 31 August 2026 at Tambakberas Islamic Boarding School in Jombang, East Java.

Welcoming National Customer Day, PLN UID Yogyakarta Promotes EV Charging Station Development in Tourist Areas

State electricity company PLN is expanding electric vehicle charging infrastructure across Yogyakarta's tourist destinations as part of its National Customer Day 2026 commitments. The initiative, discussed with the city's tourism office, aims to integrate charging facilities into attractions such as Malioboro, Kotabaru, and South Jogja. PLN is also exploring medium and slow charging concepts at destinations like Gembira Loka Zoo to allow visitors to charge vehicles while enjoying tourist activities.

Video: To Fix Problems at 1,074 State-Owned Enterprises, Danantara Carries Out Liquidation and Mergers

BPI Danantara is undertaking a major overhaul of Indonesia's 1,074 state-owned enterprises, more than half of which are loss-making and inefficient to the tune of Rp 50 trillion annually. The reform involves liquidation, divestment, consolidation and restructuring, with the aim of leaving just 254 profitable SOEs by the end of 2026. Chief Operating Officer Dony Oskaria outlined the progress in an interview with CNBC Indonesia.

Rupiah weakens ahead of Fed Chair's speech at Jackson Hole Symposium

The Indonesian rupiah weakened slightly against the US dollar on Wednesday as markets awaited Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh's speech at the Jackson Hole Symposium. Analysts suggest the speech may provide clearer signals on the Fed's stance regarding persistent inflation and the timing of policy adjustments. Investors are also focused on upcoming US Personal Consumption Expenditures data for further insight into inflationary pressures.

Indosat and Huawei Launch AI Technology for Cloud and Intelligent Calling

Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison and Huawei have strengthened their strategic partnership to develop AI-based connectivity in Indonesia, introducing an Agentic Technology Partnership that combines Indosat's 5G capabilities with Huawei's AI and intelligent network technologies. The collaboration includes two main solutions: AI New Calling with noise reduction and real-time translation features, and an Intelligent and Intent-Driven Cloud Drive. The initiative forms part of Indosat's transformation towards becoming an AI-Native Telco.

Instagram Boss Dragged to Court as Addiction Case Worsens

Instagram chief Adam Mosseri has testified in a federal court in Oakland, California, admitting that teen uptake of the platform's screen-time safety features was minimal before they were made default. The trial is part of a massive lawsuit brought by 29 US states against Meta Platforms, which is accused of deliberately designing Instagram and Facebook to addict children for profit. Meta faces potential civil penalties of nearly US$200 billion.

Zulhas targets overhaul of free nutritious meal programme governance before 20 October 2026

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan has set a target to resolve most governance problems in the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme before 20 October 2026. Measures include stricter discipline for heads of Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG), compliance with standard operating procedures, and enforcement of hygiene and sanitation certification. The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has dismissed 66 SPPG heads in the past month and closed 455 kitchens for failing to meet sanitation standards.

Will the Houthis Drag Yemen into the Vortex of the Middle East Conflict?

Yemen is sliding back towards full-scale conflict as Houthi forces escalate attacks on shipping and Saudi infrastructure in the Red Sea. Analysts suggest the Houthis are using the wider Middle East war to divert attention from domestic failures and extract concessions from Saudi Arabia. Riyadh is pursuing new maritime defence alliances to protect its Vision 2030 economic transformation without being drawn back into a ground war.

Observer: Polemic over Proposed Rp60,000 Parking Tariff in Jakarta Confuses Residents

Urban planning observer Yayat Supriyatna has urged the Jakarta provincial government and regional parliament to clarify the controversy surrounding a proposed parking tariff of up to Rp60,000. He warned that uncertainty over the tariff could confuse the public and called for transparency on the basis of the figure and its intended locations. Governor Pramono Anung has stated that the administration has no plan to raise parking fees.

Three Navy Cassa Aircraft Crew Survive Runway Excursion at Sultan Hasanuddin Airport Without Injury

Three Indonesian Navy crew members escaped unharmed after their NC 212-200 Aviocar aircraft suffered a burst tyre and veered off the runway at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Makassar. The incident occurred during landing on Tuesday, with the crew executing emergency engine shutdown procedures according to standard operating protocols. It followed a similar runway excursion by a Sukhoi Su-30 MK2 fighter jet the previous day during a post-overhaul test flight.

Eggs Cause Hundreds of Salmonella Infections

At least 306 people in Belgium have been infected with Salmonella after consuming eggs believed to be the source of an outbreak. The contamination has been traced to eggs produced by Laerco, a poultry company based in Geel, northern Belgium. The incident highlights the importance of food safety oversight for egg products and other foods that can transmit bacteria.

Bank Sampoerna posts 41 percent profit growth in first half of 2026

PT Bank Sahabat Sampoerna reported a 41.29 percent year-on-year increase in net profit to Rp15.9 billion for the first half of 2026, driven by strong lending to micro, small and medium enterprises. Nearly 60 percent of its total credit, or around Rp6.2 trillion, was channelled to MSMEs. The bank also saw its Bank as a Service transactions surge by 513 percent quarter-on-quarter to over 906 million.

Police investigate youth whose motorcycle was seized by debt collectors in East Jakarta

Police in Jatinegara, East Jakarta, are investigating a viral video showing a young man who claimed his motorcycle was seized by debt collectors despite having made payments. The local police chief said no formal report has been filed but officers will conduct an inquiry to establish the facts. The incident has drawn public attention to the practices of vehicle repossession agents, known locally as 'mata elang'.

PP KAMMI Clarifies Amri Akbar's Status Following Press Conference

The Central Board of the Indonesian Muslim Student Action Union (PP KAMMI) has clarified that Muhammad Amri Akbar has been formally dismissed from the organisation. The clarification follows media reports that identified Amri as KAMMI chairman during a press conference. PP KAMMI stated that Amri was dishonourably discharged through two official decrees issued in May and September 2025.

MPR pushes Four Pillars quiz competition to reach more schools

An MPR official has called for the Four Pillars quiz competition to be expanded so that more state and private schools across Indonesia can take part. The event is seen as an effective way to strengthen national insight among senior high school students. Participants in the 2026 national final demonstrated strong command of Pancasila, the 1945 Constitution, the unitary state, and Bhinneka Tunggal Ika.

Dukcapil Issues 3,055 Documents to Restore Civil Rights of NTT Earthquake Victims

The Ministry of Home Affairs' civil registry service has issued 3,055 population documents to victims of the 7.7-magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. Mobile service teams have been deployed across seven affected districts to restore identity documents lost or damaged in the disaster. The initiative aims to ensure displaced residents can access essential services such as aid distribution, healthcare, and school re-enrolment.

Devastating Flash Floods Strike Nepal, 8 Killed

At least eight people have died after flash floods and mudslides swept through villages in northern Nepal, damaging roads, bridges and a hydropower project. Rescue efforts are being hampered by high floodwaters, with authorities warning the death toll could rise. The disaster has also affected neighbouring Tibet, where China's President Xi Jinping has ordered all-out search efforts.

Indonesia to Launch Global-Scale Asset Management Company

Indonesia is set to establish a global-scale asset management company through the merger of five state-owned asset management firms, with a launch planned for September 2026. The consolidation aims to create a competitive entity supported by state-owned banks as distribution channels. Danantara COO Donny Oskaria expressed optimism that the new company will become a solid and strong player in the industry.

Prabowo Inspects Police Field Kitchen at Nagekeo Evacuation Site

President Prabowo Subianto visited an evacuation site in Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara, to inspect a police field kitchen serving around 600 displaced people. He also reviewed ready-to-drink water facilities and greeted Brimob personnel on duty. The visit was part of a broader government response involving several ministers and senior officials.

Prabowo assures government will continue sending aid for NTT earthquake victims

President Prabowo Subianto has assured that the central government will continue monitoring and sending aid to communities affected by the earthquake in Nusa Tenggara Timur. During a visit to Nagekeo Regency, he outlined plans for temporary school repairs, the construction of temporary housing, and repairs to damaged homes once conditions are declared safe. The death toll from the magnitude 7.7 earthquake has risen to 103.

Central Kalimantan Police Chief: Tumbang Nusa forest and land fires under control

Forest and land fires in the Tumbang Nusa area of Pulang Pisau Regency, Central Kalimantan, are now largely under control following intensive firefighting efforts. Authorities have built a five-kilometre canal and 25 water retention basins to support fire suppression, though low water levels remain a challenge. The affected area covers 192.29 hectares in Tumbang Nusa village and 98 hectares in Tanjung Taruna village.

Pertamina assures Enggano fuel supply secure for up to 40 days

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has confirmed that fuel stocks on Enggano Island, one of Indonesia's outermost islands in Bengkulu Province, are sufficient for 30 to 40 days. A tanker carrying Pertalite, Biosolar and kerosene departed from Pulau Baai on Monday. Queues at local filling stations have returned to normal after a temporary surge linked to ferry departures.

Sumedang Police uncover distribution of 502,819 restricted hard drugs during August

Sumedang Police in West Java have seized over half a million restricted pharmaceutical tablets during August 2026, targeting distribution networks across Garut, Bandung Regency, and Sumedang. Two suspects were arrested in prominent cases, with one allegedly paid Rp150,000 per day to distribute the drugs while disguising them as paracetamol. Police also reported 12 narcotics cases involving 13 suspects, with seizures of methamphetamine and synthetic tobacco.

House Commission III Chairman Requests Reactivation of 'Pak Batok' Account Today

Habiburokhman, chairman of House Commission III, has urged the immediate reactivation of a bank account belonging to Supriyono, coordinator of the Pati United Community Alliance, following a police investigation into protest fundraising. Polda Metro Jaya and Bank Mandiri announced the account would be reactivated after a temporary transaction freeze.

Flights to Muara Teweh cancelled for over a week due to thick haze

Flights to and from Haji Muhammad Sidik Airport in Muara Teweh, North Barito Regency, Central Kalimantan, have been cancelled for eight consecutive days due to thick haze from forest and land fires. The airport requires visibility of around 5,000 metres for visual flight operations, but visibility has dropped to just 1,000 metres. The disruption has driven passengers to use chartered road transport to Banjarmasin, with charter fees ranging from Rp1.4 million to Rp1.5 million.

TNI/Polri help clean residents' homes from flood debris in Parimo

Around 200 TNI/Polri personnel have been deployed to assist with clearing mud and wood debris from homes affected by flash floods in Parigi Moutong Regency, Central Sulawesi. The local government has declared a 14-day emergency response status and recorded 12 damaged houses, 50 houses submerged in mud, and 103 people affected. Authorities have established a main command post and are considering opening a public kitchen as the situation develops.

Wika Gedung (WEGE) Contracts Surge 568%, Majority from Government Assignments

State-owned construction firm PT Wijaya Karya Bangunan Gedung Tbk (WEGE) reported a 568% increase in new contracts to Rp775 billion as of August 2026, with government projects accounting for 83% of the total. The company also plans to divest assets worth more than Rp1 trillion to strengthen liquidity and refocus on its core construction business.

Agus Pambagio Highlights Forestry Minister's Absence at Forest Fire Coordination Meeting

Public policy observer Agus Pambagio has criticised Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni for not attending a coordination meeting on forest and land fire handling led by President Prabowo Subianto. Pambagio argued that the minister should be on standby around the clock to provide technical explanations during the emergency. He also questioned the effectiveness of the ministry's hotspot monitoring system, which was established after the severe fires of 2014–2015.

Government targets free certification of 11 million low-income land plots by 2029

The Indonesian government aims to provide free land certificates for approximately 11 million plots owned by low-income communities (MBR) in stages until 2029. The Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency has allocated Rp672.9 billion to certify three million plots in 2026–2027, starting with one million in 2026 and two million in 2027. The programme supports the government's 3 Million Houses initiative and targets recipients of housing assistance, FLPP financing, and self-built homes.

Purbaya Prepares Rp7 Trillion to Fix DTSEN Data

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has allocated nearly Rp7 trillion to improve the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) and conduct an economic census. The funding will support Statistics Indonesia (BPS) in addressing classification errors that have affected the grouping of citizens by decile. The government hopes the improved data quality will ensure more targeted policy implementation from next year.

Observer: Government presence in NTT accelerates earthquake victim handling

An East Nusa Tenggara economist has welcomed the direct involvement of central government officials in responding to the Flores earthquake, saying it will speed up the delivery of basic needs, infrastructure restoration and psychosocial support. President Prabowo Subianto visited Nagekeo Regency on Wednesday after Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka visited Sikka Regency earlier, with both leaders reviewing relief efforts and public facilities.

Education Ministry reminds non-formal education units not to delay Paket C TKA registration

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has urged non-formal education units to accelerate registration for the Paket C Academic Ability Test, warning that current numbers remain far below last year's figures. As of 23 August, only 361 of 9,693 eligible SPNF institutions had registered, compared with 6,128 the previous year. Officials are calling on community learning centre heads, operators, education offices and ministry staff to intensify outreach before the end of August.

Prabowo supports opening 8,000 hectares of agricultural land in Nagekeo, NTT

President Prabowo Subianto has endorsed a plan to develop 8,000 hectares of agricultural land in Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, emphasising the need for reliable water sources. The initiative includes using around 100 hectares near the coast for fish farming, with the Lambo Dam expected to support irrigation once completed.

Peak of Grebeg Sekaten celebration in Solo

The Surakarta Hadiningrat Royal Palace presented four pairs of gunungan, symbolising male and female, for residents to scramble for during the peak of the Grebeg Sekaten celebration at the Great Mosque of Solo, Central Java. The event marks the tradition of commemorating the birth of Prophet Muhammad. Palace retainers escorted the gunungan procession before the scramble.

LPPM UMJ Holds Monitoring and Evaluation of 2026 Community Service Grants to Ensure Programmes Run Optimally

The Institute for Research and Community Service at Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta (LPPM UMJ) conducted monitoring and evaluation of its 2026 Community Service (PkM) grant programmes funded by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology. The hybrid event allowed project teams to present progress, outputs, and challenges, receiving feedback from internal and external reviewers. LPPM UMJ emphasised the importance of accountability and sustainability in ensuring the programmes deliver tangible benefits to the community.

Shaman Promising to Double Money in Serang Arrested, Rp77 Million Replaced with Tea

Police in Serang, Banten, have arrested a man who posed as a shaman capable of doubling money, defrauding a victim of Rp77 million. The suspect handed the victim a suitcase he claimed contained the multiplied funds, but it was later found to contain only packaged tea drinks. The unemployed suspect admitted using the money for daily expenses and has been charged under articles carrying a maximum sentence of four years in prison.

Indonesia's first aircraft carrier begins voyage from Italy

Indonesia's first aircraft carrier, acquired from Italy through an intergovernmental grant, has departed for Jakarta and is expected to arrive in mid-September 2026. The vessel, currently named ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi, will be renamed KRI Gajah Mada upon arrival and formally commissioned on 25 September in a ceremony likely attended by President Prabowo Subianto. The carrier is set to make its public debut during the TNI's 81st anniversary naval parade in October.

Destry Partners with PT DSI to Strengthen Foreign Exchange Flow Supervision

Bank Indonesia governor candidate Destry Damayanti has pledged to enhance supervision of foreign exchange flows (LLD) if confirmed, citing fragmented data sources as a key weakness. She plans to collaborate with PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia and the Directorate General of Customs and Excise to improve monitoring. The initiative will involve supervisory technology (suptech) and end-to-end metadata standardisation to achieve more timely and comprehensive data.

Changes in Community Deciles, BPS DIY: Not Solely Based on Income

The Acting Head of BPS Yogyakarta has clarified that the determination of socio-economic deciles is not based solely on income, but on a range of social and economic indicators. Residents who feel their data is inaccurate can update their information independently through the Cek Bansos platform, with changes subject to verification procedures. The process is linked to the targeting of programmes such as the Indonesia Smart Programme and can take up to three months for revisions.

Land Fire Disrupts Rangkasbitung KRL Services

Commuter line services on the Rangkasbitung route were disrupted due to a land fire near the tracks between Daru and Tigaraksa stations. KAI Commuter Indonesia apologised for the delays and implemented single-track operations while the fire was being extinguished. Normal two-track operations resumed with speed restrictions after the fire was brought under control.

Palangka Raya city government strengthens health centres to tackle haze impact

The Palangka Raya city administration is bolstering the readiness of community health centres to prevent and manage health problems caused by haze from forest and land fires. Oxygen rooms have been prepared at 11 puskesmas across the city, with auxiliary health centres in 30 urban villages also being optimised. Residents are urged to seek early treatment for respiratory complaints and to take protective measures as air quality deteriorates.

Undip develops modern environmentally friendly rice fields

Diponegoro University has developed a modern rice field model using appropriate technology and renewable energy on previously abandoned land in Semarang, Central Java. The project utilises solar-powered irrigation and a hydraulic pump to support water availability, with plans to trial nutrient-rich red rice varieties. The university aims to turn the area into a field laboratory for sustainable agriculture and an edu-ecotourism destination.

Buleleng DPRD Targets Galian C Tax to Pursue Rp 850 Billion PAD

The Buleleng Regency Legislative Council (DPRD) is pushing to raise the region's own-source revenue (PAD) target to nearly Rp 850 billion by 2027. Lawmakers have identified the Galian C mining sector as a key source of additional income, with potential annual revenue of almost Rp 8 billion. The council has agreed on adjustments totalling approximately Rp 5.194 billion in additional PAD.

Eco RunFest 2026 Targets 14,000 Runners and 10,000 Festival-Goers

Pertamina's annual Eco RunFest returns for its 13th edition on 6 December 2026, aiming to attract 14,000 runners and 10,000 festival attendees. The state-owned energy company will donate 100% of ticket sale profits to environmental programmes under its Eco-Mission initiative. The event features four race categories: Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, and Family Course.

Two houses in Pondok Labu catch fire, suspected electrical fault

Two residential houses in Pondok Labu, South Jakarta, were engulfed by fire on Wednesday morning, suspected to have been caused by an electrical fault. Firefighters deployed 20 vehicles and 83 personnel, successfully containing the blaze within an hour. Seven people from two families were affected, with no reported casualties.

Ministry reminds on importance of managing productive-age population

Indonesia's Ministry of Population and Family Development has urged the government to improve management of the productive-age population to optimise the demographic dividend opportunity. With 68.94 percent of the population aged 15-64 and a dependency ratio of 45.05, the ministry argues the 8 percent economic growth target is achievable if the opportunity is managed well. The government is preparing a Population Development Roadmap to align workforce skills with labour market needs.

Prabowo instructs construction of refugee housing in NTT to await BMKG

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed that permanent housing and repairs for victims of the Flores earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara only commence once the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) declares the area safe. The BMKG estimates conditions will stabilise around four weeks after the 7.7 magnitude earthquake on 15 August 2026. The disaster has claimed 105 lives, injured 1,678 people, displaced 179,073, and damaged 81,436 homes.

Bank Mandiri to Restore Rp80.9 Billion Account of AMPB Coordinator Supriyono

Bank Mandiri has agreed to restore the account of Supriyono, also known as Botok, coordinator of the People's Care Alliance (AMPB), following a request from House of Representatives Commission III and the Jakarta Metropolitan Police. The account, reportedly containing Rp80.9 billion, had been blocked or had transactions suspended. Commission III chairman Habiburokhman stated there was no criminal element involved and requested the account be reactivated so the owner could resume his activities.

Food Minister inaugurates construction of Bekasi waste-to-energy facility

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan has inaugurated the construction of a waste-to-energy facility in Bekasi, West Java, as part of efforts to tackle Indonesia's waste crisis. The facility is expected to process 1,000 tonnes of waste per day into electricity, with the Indonesian Army also preparing to convert older waste into fuel oil. The government aims to reduce at least 70 per cent of waste within two to three years.

Video: This Sentiment Strengthens the Rupiah to Rp 17,600 per USD

The rupiah strengthened to Rp 17,600 per US dollar, supported by a decline in the US dollar index and capital inflows into emerging markets. Domestically, the market responded positively to the fit and proper test process for Bank Indonesia governor candidate Destry Damayanti.

Royal! These Are the 10 'Noble' Issuers with the Highest Yields

Ten Indonesian listed companies with market capitalisations above Rp10 trillion are offering dividend yields of around 10% or more, led by coal miner Baramulti Suksessarana at 18.6%. The list spans banking, commodities, consumer goods and healthcare, but analysts caution that high yields do not guarantee future payouts or that a stock is cheap.

KRI Gajah Mada to be escorted by two warships and Indonesian Navy aircraft

The Indonesian Navy will deploy at least two frigates and naval aircraft to escort the newly acquired ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi, to be renamed KRI Gajah Mada, as it enters Indonesian waters. The vessel departed Italy and is expected to arrive in Jakarta between 15 and 20 September, with a formal renaming and flag-changing ceremony planned for 25 September 2026, to be attended by President Prabowo Subianto.

MTI Bali Urges Use of Foreign Tourist Levy to Fund Trans Metro Dewata

The Indonesian Transport Society (MTI) Bali has proposed that the provincial government use revenue from the Foreign Tourist Levy (PWA) to help finance the operation of the Trans Metro Dewata bus service. The proposal comes amid calls for expanding the number of bus corridors to improve public transport coverage in Bali. MTI Bali argues that the levy can legally be used for this purpose under a 2023 provincial regulation.

Navy aircraft crew survive incident at Hasanuddin Airport

Three Indonesian Navy aircrew escaped injury after their Casa NC 212-200 aircraft suffered a burst tyre on landing at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Makassar, causing it to veer off the runway. The incident occurred a day after a Sukhoi Su-30 MK2 fighter jet also overshot the runway during a post-overhaul test flight. Both aircraft are undergoing technical inspection.

Mysterious Cause of Two Men Found Covered in Blood in Cimahi

Police in Cimahi are still investigating the circumstances surrounding a violent incident that left one man dead and another hospitalised. The two men, who knew each other, were found covered in blood at a rented room in South Cimahi. Authorities are awaiting digital forensic results to determine whether the incident was an attack or a duel.

Olele community weaves economic value from palm fibre

Residents of Olele village in Gorontalo are turning low-value palm fibre into woven nets used as green curtains, creating a new source of income beyond their traditional reliance on marine tourism. The initiative, supported by Universitas Negeri Gorontalo, aims to diversify the local economy by tapping into the area's terrestrial and cultural potential.

Education Ministry provides self-paced training for primary school teachers to teach English

Indonesia's Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has launched a self-paced training programme to improve primary school teachers' competence in teaching English. The initiative aims to prepare teachers ahead of English becoming a compulsory subject in primary schools from the 2027/2028 academic year. The ministry targets training 30,000 teachers annually, with all needs expected to be met by 2029.

Destry Affirms BI-Government Synergy Will Not Reduce Independence

Bank Indonesia governor candidate Destry Damayanti has assured lawmakers that her proposed 'Sinergi Merah Putih' concept would not compromise the central bank's independence. She argued that closer coordination with the government is necessary to address increasingly complex economic challenges. Destry emphasised that each institution would retain its own mandate while working together to support the real sector and job creation.

Partial Lunar Eclipse on 28 August 2026: Can It Be Seen from Indonesia?

A partial lunar eclipse will occur on 28 August 2026, but it will not be visible from Indonesia. According to BMKG, Indonesia lies outside the eclipse's visibility area, as the Moon will be below the horizon during the event. The eclipse can only be observed from most of the Americas, Africa, Europe, and parts of Central Asia and the Middle East.

Timah Properti targets market expansion through Danantara Housing Expo

PT Timah Karya Persada Properti is using the Danantara Housing Expo to broaden its market reach and boost sales of residential products. The company is offering low down payments, competitive interest rates, and extended tenors to improve affordability. The initiative aligns with national housing programmes and aims to support government targets in the property sector.

NATO Deploys Fighter Jets Amid Signs of New War Escalation

NATO has heightened its alert status after a drone was detected near Romanian airspace, raising concerns that the Russia-Ukraine war could spill over into alliance territory. Romania scrambled Spanish F-18 fighter jets and issued civil defence warnings to residents in Tulcea County. The incident is part of a growing pattern of airspace violations along NATO's eastern flank.

Old Content Frequently Reposted, Police: Get Used to Not Immediately Believing

The Indonesian National Police have urged the public to be more cautious about information circulating on social media, warning that old content is often recycled and presented as recent events. Head of Public Relations Inspector General Johnny Eddizon Isir emphasised the importance of verifying sources, timestamps, and context before sharing content. He stressed that the number of reposts should not be taken as a measure of truth.

Dukcapil Mobile Service Restores Documents for 3,055 Earthquake Victims

Indonesia's Directorate General of Population and Civil Registration (Dukcapil) has reissued 3,055 civil documents for residents affected by the Flores earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The mobile service, deployed across seven affected regencies, aims to ensure displaced residents retain access to essential services and aid. The initiative addresses the destruction of local Dukcapil offices and infrastructure caused by the magnitude 7.7 earthquake.

Indonesia's 5.1 million-ton rice stock safe amid El Nino: Official

Indonesia's government rice reserves have reached 5.1 million tons, the highest level on record, according to an official from the National Food Agency. The state logistics agency Bulog is distributing stocks through market intervention and food assistance programmes to stabilise prices and mitigate the impact of El Nino. Officials assured that the ample reserves will protect food security despite rising global rice prices and climate-related challenges.

Drought risk in Central Kalimantan to rise through August: BMKG

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned that drought conditions and wildfire risk in Central Kalimantan will intensify through late August, with 259 hotspots detected in a single day. Limited rainfall, dry soil layers, and a tropical cyclone disturbance to the north are expected to worsen fire danger, particularly in East Kotawaringin. Authorities have urged residents and local officials to increase vigilance against forest and land fires in high-risk areas.

Forging Collaboration to Strengthen the Creative Ecosystem

Feel Good Network has expanded its independent creative ecosystem by bringing on board Lengua, a social-first creative agency, to bolster its social media strategy, content production, and creator-based engagement capabilities. The move comes as the social media landscape grows increasingly complex, requiring brands to integrate platform-specific audience and cultural understanding from the outset of campaign planning. Lengua brings a strong track record, including over 40 campaigns for Grab Indonesia and multiple regional industry awards.

BI Deputy Governor Candidate Aida Reveals How BI Handles Liquidity Drought at Himbara

Bank Indonesia deputy governor candidate Aida S. Budiman has acknowledged that state-owned banks (Himbara) are facing a liquidity shortage, which previously slowed credit disbursement before growth recovered to double digits. She attributed the situation to the depletion of securities holdings concentrated in certain banks. To address the issue, BI will introduce a new macroprudential liquidity policy from 1 September 2026, offering reserve requirement incentives to banks that do not exceed securities ownership thresholds.

Habiburokhman Hopes AMPB Coordinator Supriyono's Account Is Reactivated Soon

House of Representatives Commission III chairman Habiburokhman has urged the immediate reactivation of a bank account belonging to Supriyono, coordinator of the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB), after police completed their review of donation funds. The account had been temporarily frozen while authorities verified the source of Rp80.9 million intended for protest operational costs. Bank Mandiri has confirmed it will process the reactivation promptly.

Garuda Spark Innovation Hub focused on supporting government priority programmes

The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs says the Garuda Spark Innovation Hub (GSIH) will be directed towards supporting the government's priority programmes through regional digital innovation. Each hub will have a distinct focus aligned with local potential, such as food technology in Medan and education in Yogyakarta. The initiative aims to prepare Indonesia's young workforce for digital transformation and boost the global competitiveness of local startups and talent.

BI Assures SAL Placement Is Safe, Destry: We Have Coordinated

Bank Indonesia's acting governor Destry Damayanti has confirmed that coordination between the central bank and the government regarding the management and placement of excess budget balances (SAL) is increasingly solid. She stated that technical teams from the Ministry of Finance, BI, OJK, and LPS have met to discuss the matter. Destry assured that the use of SAL funds to boost bank third-party funds poses no problems as long as objectives are clear and communication is maintained.

Airlangga Receives Reports of Thin Retail Stock in Indonesia, Why?

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has acknowledged complaints from Indonesian retailers about thinning stock levels, particularly for products reliant on imported goods. He stressed the need to improve distribution and stock availability to prevent Indonesian consumers from shopping abroad. Retail industry representatives also highlighted that limited product variety and completeness hinder Indonesia's ability to attract shopping tourists.

Container Transport Records Highest Growth, KAI Logistik Manages 1.9 Million Tonnes of Goods in July 2026

PT Kereta Api Logistik (KAI Logistik) managed approximately 1.9 million tonnes of freight in July 2026, bringing its cumulative volume to 10.6 million tonnes for the year. Container transport under the KALOG Plus service recorded the highest growth at 28 per cent, while coal remained the largest contributor despite a decline compared to the previous year. The company views the diversified growth as a sign of expanding demand for rail-based logistics services.

House receives honorary teachers seeking employment status certainty

The House of Representatives has received a delegation of non-civil servant teachers demanding clarity on their employment status before the 2027 deadline. The teachers, represented by the Forum Advokasi Guru Non-ASN Sekolah Negeri, are concerned that recent government announcements on part-time and full-time contract-based civil servant positions did not address their fate. House leaders pledged to help resolve the issue following a 2026 ministerial circular on the assignment of non-civil servant teachers.

Danantara Breaks Ground on $188 Million Waste-to-Energy Mega-Plant to Power Grid and Slash Urban Landfill Crisis

Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund Danantara has commenced construction of a Rp 3 trillion waste-to-energy facility in Bantar Gebang, West Java, designed to process 1,500 tonnes of municipal waste daily and supply baseload electricity to the grid. The project, backed by a guaranteed off-take tariff from state utility PLN and National Strategic Project status, aims to alleviate severe landfill saturation while creating up to 1,000 green jobs. It represents a significant commercial milestone for circular infrastructure investment in emerging Asia, with full commercial operations targeted for mid-2028.

Telkom subsidiary to build 4,000 towers by 2027 to reach 3T regions

Mitratel, a subsidiary of state-owned Telkom Indonesia, plans to build around 4,000 new telecommunications towers by 2027 to support 5G expansion, including in underdeveloped, frontier and outermost (3T) areas. The move aligns with the government's spectrum auction requirements for operators to extend coverage to 530 villages and sub-districts with weak signal. The company currently operates about 41,000 towers, with 60 per cent located outside Java.

Malaysia Offers Weather Modification Assistance to Tackle Forest Fires in Indonesia

Malaysia has formally offered Indonesia assistance, including cloud seeding operations, to address the forest and land fires causing transboundary haze. The offer was conveyed by Malaysia's Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister after discussions with Indonesia's Environment and Forestry Minister. The initiative aims to accelerate fire suppression and mitigate the spread of smoke affecting neighbouring regions.

Pertamina ensures 4,000 kl Pertalite maintains supply in Bengkulu

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has confirmed that Pertalite fuel supplies in Bengkulu Province remain secure following the arrival of a tanker carrying 4,000 kilolitres at Pulau Baai Port. The shipment is expected to cover distribution needs for approximately seven to eight days, with another vessel scheduled to arrive on 28-29 August 2026. A temporary hold on distribution due to safety protocols during unloading caused delays of three to four hours at several filling stations.

OJK Urges Public to Remain Calm, Acknowledges AMPB Botok Account Case Could Affect Other Banks

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has called for public calm following the blocking of a Bank Mandiri account belonging to Supriyono, coordinator of the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB). The regulator emphasised that customer funds remain safe and protected by the Deposit Insurance Corporation, while acknowledging that such incidents could impact confidence in the wider banking system. OJK stated that temporary transaction holds are a form of protection when conducted lawfully and will be lifted once investigations conclude.

Moment to Revive Historical Ties Between PPP and Syarikat Islam

The commemoration of the Prophet Muhammad's birthday at the Syarikat Islam headquarters became a moment to revive the historical bond between Syarikat Islam and the United Development Party (PPP). Syarikat Islam chairman Hamdan Zoelva publicly pledged to help safeguard PPP, reminding attendees that Syarikat Islam was a founding organisation of the party. PPP chairman Muhamad Mardiono welcomed the commitment, describing it as a shared effort to strengthen the party and pursue new breakthroughs for the community.

IAPI proposes single standard as reference for sustainability assurance

The Indonesian Institute of Certified Public Accountants (IAPI) has proposed adopting a single international standard as the official reference for sustainability assurance in Indonesia. The institute also called for equal supervisory infrastructure for all assurance providers before mandatory assurance requirements take effect. IAPI argues the current sustainability reporting ecosystem lacks the maturity of financial reporting, creating risks of greenwashing and eroding investor trust.

Iqbal Stresses New Sade Traditional Village Design Must Be Disaster-Resistant

West Nusa Tenggara Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal has confirmed that reconstruction of the fire-damaged Sade traditional village in Central Lombok will proceed with a stronger focus on disaster resilience. The rebuilding will follow a community-based approach, with the new structures retaining the original design but incorporating improved safety features such as better air circulation and more effective fire suppression access. Funding details have not yet been finalised, and the governor has indicated the project is not tied to the 2026 Mandalika MotoGP schedule.

Video: Danantara Merges 5 State-Owned Asset Management Firms and 23 Industrial Estates

BPI Danantara's Chief Operating Officer Dony Oskaria has outlined the agency's progress in consolidating state-owned enterprises since its launch by President Prabowo Subianto in February 2025. Danantara is reviewing 1,074 SOEs, of which 52 per cent are loss-making, with plans to reduce the number to 254 profitable entities by the end of 2026 through liquidation, divestment, consolidation and restructuring.

GPIB Immanuel Marks 187th Anniversary, Bima Arya Urges Legacy of Faith and Service

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has called on GPIB Immanuel Jakarta to preserve its values of faith, sincerity, loyalty and service as the church celebrates its 187th anniversary. He highlighted the lotus flower philosophy on the church dome and the historic organ as symbols of resilience and harmony. Bima also stressed the government's commitment to inclusive development and freedom of worship.

Indonesia’s forestry ministry processes 42 forest fire cases, sanctions six companies

Indonesia's forestry ministry is pursuing legal proceedings in 42 forest and land fire cases and has imposed administrative sanctions on six concession holders after fires burned over 1,500 hectares in Kalimantan. President Prabowo Subianto has ordered stronger prevention measures, including rapid hotspot response and the deployment of 1,000 military and police personnel for public outreach. The fires, exacerbated by a strong El Nino and dry conditions, have caused haze across the region and disrupted schooling in several provinces.

Diaz-Canel condemns US pressure, insists Cuba will not surrender

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel has said dialogue with the United States has stalled and that no clear negotiating agenda exists. He rejected claims that Cuba is on the brink of economic collapse, attributing the country's crisis mainly to the US blockade. Diaz-Canel defended Cuba's economic reform package while insisting Havana will maintain its sovereignty and remain open to unconditional dialogue with Washington.

Destry Damayanti Promises BI to Be More Pro-Growth

Destry Damayanti, Senior Deputy Governor and candidate for Bank Indonesia Governor, has pledged to steer the central bank towards more pro-growth policies if appointed. She emphasised that monetary policy would remain focused on rupiah stability while creating room for economic expansion. Damayanti also highlighted the potential to boost credit growth by optimising undisbursed loans and strengthening public purchasing power.

Indosat-Huawei introduce four AI features for phone calls

Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison and Huawei have launched four AI-powered features under the AI New Calling service to make phone communication easier and more interactive. The features include noise reduction, real-time translation, interactive visualised voice calling, and digital avatar displays. The collaboration aims to advance Connected Intelligence in Indonesia and help users overcome communication barriers such as language differences and noisy environments.

Prabowo pushes reforestation of denuded forests across Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto has called for nationwide reforestation of degraded forests as part of medium- and long-term efforts to protect the environment and secure water supplies. Speaking during a coordination meeting on earthquake response in Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara, he urged educational institutions and security forces to support the initiative. The President also stressed the importance of science, technology, and bold regional development targets.

Sangurejo Hamlet Strengthens Environmental Action Towards Sustainable ProKlim

Sangurejo Hamlet in Sleman, Yogyakarta, has undergone field verification for the Sustainable Climate Village Programme (ProKlim Lestari), with officials emphasising that environmental stewardship must continue beyond competitions. The programme has transformed the area from a slum into a recognised climate village, bringing economic, social and health benefits to residents.

Prabowo Offers Condolences to Communities Affected by NTT Earthquake: We Will Continue to Help

President Prabowo Subianto has expressed his condolences to communities affected by the earthquake in Nusa Tenggara Timur during a visit to an evacuation post in Nagekeo. He assured residents that the central government is continuously monitoring the situation and sending aid. The government will also build temporary housing and resume schooling in tents while repairs are carried out.

Trump Hints at Demolishing Kennedy Center Amid Legal Battle

President Donald Trump has suggested the iconic Kennedy Center in Washington DC could be demolished if courts block his renovation plans. The warning came in a Justice Department filing opposing Democratic efforts to halt the two-year restoration project and prevent Trump's name from being prominently displayed on the building. The dispute marks the latest escalation in a bitter fight over one of America's most prestigious cultural institutions.

Police Reactivate AMPB Activist's Account After Public Criticism, Claim Investigation Completed

Polda Metro Jaya and Bank Mandiri have reactivated the bank account of Supriyono alias Botok, coordinator of the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB), after its blocking drew widespread public criticism. Police stated that their investigation into the account, which held funds raised for a demonstration by Pati residents, has been completed. The account suspension was carried out under Indonesia's anti-money laundering law to verify the source of donations.

Prabowo Greets NTT Earthquake Victims

President Prabowo Subianto visited earthquake victims in Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, to assess the impact of the Free Nutritious Meals programme and review disaster response efforts. The death toll from the M7.7 earthquake that struck Flores on 15 August has risen to 105, with over 179,000 people displaced. The President affirmed the government's commitment to continuing the nutrition programme for children, pregnant women, and the elderly.

Bekasi Builds Waste-to-Energy Plant (PSEL), Here Is the Developer

Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund Danantara has broken ground on a waste-to-energy facility in Bekasi, West Java, with an investment of up to Rp 3 trillion. The plant is expected to process 500,000 tonnes of waste annually, reduce landfill use by 90%, and supply electricity to PLN under a power purchase agreement. The project is part of a broader national mandate under Presidential Regulation No. 109 of 2025.

Hat-trick: Aircraft Incidents on Runway at Sultan Hasanuddin Airport

Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Makassar recorded its third runway incident in three consecutive days, this time involving a civilian surveillance aircraft. The Piper PA-31 Navajo experienced a wheel lock malfunction but was evacuated within 30 minutes without disrupting flight operations. Airport operator Angkasa Pura Indonesia confirmed that normal operations continued thanks to the availability of an alternative runway.

Aceh Tamiang Government Targets Completion of Additional TKD Realisation by November 2026

The Aceh Tamiang district government is accelerating post-disaster recovery spending, aiming to fully realise its additional Transfer to Daerah (TKD) allocation by November 2026. As of 25 August 2026, realisation stood at Rp8.1 billion of a Rp36.8 billion ceiling, or about 22 percent, up from 3.58 percent in late July. The funds are prioritised for infrastructure, health, education and basic services for affected communities.

Bank Mandiri to Reactivate Botok Pati's Account, Habiburokhman Voices Support

House of Representatives Commission III chairman Habiburokhman has urged Bank Mandiri and the police to immediately reactivate the account of Pati activist Supriyono, also known as Botok, stating there is no criminal element involved. Bank Mandiri's president director Riduan confirmed the bank will comply and apologised for any inconvenience caused. The move follows public concern over the blocking of the activist's account.

Mandiri to Reactivate Botok Pati's Account Immediately, Habiburokhman: If Possible Today

House of Representatives Commission III Chairman Habiburokhman has urged Bank Mandiri and the police to reactivate the frozen account of Pati activist Supriyono, also known as Botok, stating there is no criminal element involved. Bank Mandiri's president director has confirmed the bank will comply and restore access to the account. The case highlights concerns over freedom of expression and the blocking of activists' accounts.

Man Who Murdered Unregistered Wife in Limo, Depok, Sentenced to 14 Years in Prison

Ahmad Ronny Hasiholan has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for the murder of his unregistered wife in Limo, Depok. Prosecutors established that Ronny was guilty of murder under Article 458 paragraph (1) of the Criminal Code. The case came to light after the victim's family reported the discovery of her remains, which had been reduced to bones and dried skin.

Bank Muamalat partners with PMI Bogor Hospital to expand sharia financial ecosystem

PT Bank Muamalat Indonesia Tbk has signed a memorandum of understanding with PMI Bogor Hospital to broaden its sharia financial ecosystem while delivering social benefits through the healthcare sector. The partnership includes employee benefit programmes, payroll services, financing products, pension planning, and hajj and umrah schemes for hospital staff. It also features a Sharia Restricted Investment Account for the institution and a ZISWAF collection programme aimed at supporting social and humanitarian initiatives.

Habiburokhman requests Pati activist's account be reactivated today

House of Representatives Commission III chairman Habiburokhman has urged Bank Mandiri and the Jakarta Metropolitan Police to immediately reactivate the bank account of Pati activist Supriyono. The account, containing Rp80.9 million in personal funds and public donations for a demonstration, had been temporarily blocked pending verification under anti-money laundering regulations. Police said the review found no legal violations, and Bank Mandiri confirmed it would restore access promptly.

Ministry: Regional disparities remain challenge to economic equality

Indonesia's Ministry of Population and Family Development has warned that inter-regional development gaps continue to hinder equitable economic growth and the even distribution of demographic dividend benefits. The ministry is preparing an asymmetric policy roadmap to tailor fertility targets and demographic strategies to the specific needs of each region. It also aims to better align workforce skills with labour market demand.

House Commission III Urges Restoration of Botok's Bank Account, Confirms No Criminal Element

House of Representatives Commission III has called for the immediate restoration of a bank account belonging to activist Supriyono, also known as Botok, following public complaints that the account had been rendered inaccessible. Chairman Habiburokhman stated that no criminal element was involved and that freedom of expression is protected by law. The commission coordinated with the Jakarta Metropolitan Police and Bank Mandiri to expedite the account's restoration.

Prabowo in NTT: Is It True That People Here Often Burn Forests?

President Prabowo Subianto, during a coordination meeting on earthquake response in Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara, highlighted the persistent practice of forest burning for land clearing and hunting in the region. He stressed the need for public education to prevent such fires and noted the area's potential, particularly its famed sandalwood trees. Governor Melkiades Laka Lena confirmed the president's observations.

Thousands of Earthquake Evacuees Welcome Prabowo in Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara

President Prabowo Subianto visited earthquake evacuees in Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake. Thousands of displaced residents gathered at Berdikari Danga Field to greet him. The President inspected military facilities and was accompanied by senior officials including the National Police Chief and the Head of the National Disaster Management Agency.

Beware of Remote WhatsApp Hacking, Check New Ways to Secure Your Account

WhatsApp has introduced a series of new security features to strengthen account protection amid increasingly sophisticated phishing and account takeover attempts. The updates include stronger alphanumeric PINs, support for multiple passkeys, and additional information for calls from unknown numbers on Android. The move comes as messaging platforms compete to make security features more practical and accessible for everyday users.

Prabowo says free nutritious meals programme vital for people in difficult conditions

President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised the importance of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme for underprivileged communities, particularly mothers and children. Speaking during a coordination meeting on earthquake response in Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara, he noted that while a single meal means little to the affluent, it has a significant impact on those facing prolonged hardship. The President also highlighted the programme's broader benefits, including improved school attendance and economic gains for families involved in meal provision.

Danantara Ready to Cut State-Owned Enterprises to 254, Here's the Goal

Indonesia's state-owned enterprise superholding Danantara has closed 290 state-owned companies in its first 18 months and plans to reduce the total from 1,074 to just 254 by the end of 2026. The consolidation aims to create more efficient, agile and globally competitive firms, with remaining companies grouped for liquidation, divestment, consolidation or restructuring. Examples include a consolidated hospital group to be launched as Indonesia Hospital in September and a restructuring of Telkom into a strategic holding.

Yogyakarta City Government, BPD DIY, and Bank Indonesia Strengthen Synergy and Digital Transformation

The Yogyakarta City Government, Bank BPD DIY, and Bank Indonesia's Yogyakarta representative office held a High Level Meeting to accelerate regional digitalisation. The forum evaluated the expansion of non-cash transactions, including full adoption of the Government Credit Card across all 53 regional work units. A memorandum of understanding was also signed to monitor regional tax tools and prevent revenue leakage.

Prabowo Meets NTT Earthquake Evacuees, Says Government Will Not Abandon Residents

President Prabowo Subianto visited earthquake evacuees in Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, on Wednesday, 26 August 2026, following a coordination meeting on disaster response. He inspected shelter facilities including sanitation, clean water, communal kitchens and tents, and greeted children and volunteers. The visit was intended to ensure basic needs are met for residents still living in temporary shelters after the earthquake.

LKPP Seeks to Break Corruption in Government Procurement Through Anti-Corruption Training

Indonesia's Public Procurement Agency (LKPP) has launched an anti-corruption training programme aimed at breaking corrupt practices in government procurement of goods and services. The initiative targets procurement professionals, budget holders, and the wider procurement ecosystem, with support from the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) and the National Institute of Public Administration (LAN).

Indigenous Leader and Environmental Defender Shot Dead in Peru's Amazon

Americo Pascuala Tomisha, a 57-year-old Asheninka community leader, was shot dead while patrolling his ancestral territory in Peru's Ucayali region. Authorities are investigating the killing as a murder, with indigenous organisation ORAU alleging the shots came from outsiders extracting copaiba oil from trees on indigenous land. The case adds to a long list of threats and killings faced by environmental and indigenous rights defenders across Latin America.

Not Just Shalawat: Kiai Cholil Nafis' Message on the Prophet's Birthday

Rais Syuriah PBNU KH M Cholil Nafis has urged Muslims to use the Prophet Muhammad's birthday as a moment for self-reflection rather than mere ceremonial celebration. He emphasised that faith must be demonstrated through speech and actions that bring safety, peace, and tranquillity to others. The senior cleric called on Muslims to translate their love for the Prophet into obedience to his commands and avoidance of his prohibitions.

National Ojol Coalition Affirms It Will Not Join 27 August 2026 Protest

The National Ojol Coalition has stated it will not participate in a planned demonstration on 27 August 2026, urging drivers to avoid provocation and unverified information. The coalition met with online motorcycle taxi drivers from Sidoarjo, Surabaya and Pasuruan to discuss partnership status and aspirations. Drivers expressed their commitment to maintaining order and called for continued partnership arrangements with app operators.

Jakarta Car Parking Tariff of Rp 60,000 per Hour Still a Proposal, Says DKI Transportation Agency

The DKI Jakarta Transportation Agency has clarified that no parking tariff increase has been implemented, and the widely circulated figure of Rp 60,000 per hour for cars remains only a proposal based on studies from 2019 and 2022. Current parking rates continue to follow existing regulations, with any future changes requiring approval from the Governor and discussions with the DPRD.

Kebon Ayu Village Office Sealed, Village Head Reports to Police

The Kebon Ayu village office in West Lombok has been sealed by a resident, halting public services. Village head Kasim has filed a report with the West Lombok Police and other authorities. The resident claims the land belongs to his family and had previously demanded Rp 50 million.

Iran and Oman agree temporary transit route through Strait of Hormuz

Iran and Oman have agreed a seven-mile temporary transit corridor through the Strait of Hormuz, though Tehran insists the strategic waterway remains closed. The arrangement will run through Iranian territorial waters on both entry and exit, with further talks planned over 30 to 60 days to establish a permanent route. Iran has linked any full reopening of the strait to the United States honouring its commitments, ending the war, lifting blockades and resolving the status of Yemen.

Meeting NTT Earthquake Refugees, Prabowo: We Are Here to Help Our Brothers and Sisters

President Prabowo Subianto visited earthquake refugees in Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara, pledging that the government will complete disaster response within two weeks. He expressed condolences to affected families and promised to accelerate permanent housing construction once conditions are safe. The president also instructed ministers to speed up field operations and urged residents to remain patient for at least three weeks due to aftershock risks.

Indonesian Citizens Splurge on Overseas Shopping, Figures Are Staggering

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto revealed that Indonesian travellers spent US$6.7 billion (around Rp118.7 trillion) on overseas travel services. The government sees an opportunity to redirect some of this spending back into the domestic economy by developing shopping tourism. Airlangga highlighted that domestic consumption remains the main driver of the national economy, contributing 53.32% to GDP.

Destry Says Inclusive and Sharia Finance Can Drive 8 Percent Economic Growth

Bank Indonesia governor candidate Destry Damayanti has argued that inclusive finance and the sharia economy could be key drivers in achieving 8 percent economic growth. She made the remarks during a fit and proper test before House Commission XI, stressing that quality growth must be measured by how widely its benefits are felt. Destry pledged to strengthen inclusive financing through macroprudential policy to reach more people and businesses with limited financial access.

MPR says Oil and Gas Bill regulates transfer of SKK functions to business entity

Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Eddy Soeparno has stated that the new Oil and Gas Bill will establish a special business entity to take over the functions of SKK Migas, the upstream oil and gas regulator. The move follows a Constitutional Court ruling and aims to create a credible institution capable of attracting greater investment. The government and the House of Representatives are still discussing the form and mechanism of the new entity.

P2MI Minister Launches SMK Go Global, Preparing Graduates for Overseas Employment

The 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, part of President Prabowo Subianto's directive to prepare 500,000 workers, targets sectors such as caregiving, welding, hospitality, and nursing. The government aims to ensure migrant workers depart through official channels with adequate competence and full protection throughout the migration process.

Police block toll road and Tangerang stations to prevent protesters from reaching Jakarta

Tangerang police have set up checkpoints on the Merak–Jakarta toll road and at commuter line stations to stop demonstrators from outside Java travelling to a protest at the DPR building on 27 August 2026. Officers are also tightening checks on arterial roads and asking schools to take attendance to deter student participation. The planned demonstration includes demands for the asset forfeiture bill to be passed and for improvements to government programmes.

BRI Provides Education Funds for National-Level Paskibraka

State-owned bank BRI has awarded education funds to 76 national-level Paskibraka flag-hoisting squad members and 72 support staff who served at Indonesia's 81st Independence Day ceremony. The appreciation, delivered through the bank's BRI Peduli corporate social responsibility programme, marks 17 consecutive years of support. BRI said the initiative aims to honour the young people's dedication to state duties while supporting the continuation of their education.

BRI Marks 17 Years of Appreciation with Education Funds for National Paskibraka

State-owned bank BRI has awarded education funds to 76 members of the national flag-raising squad (Paskibraka) and 72 support staff following the 81st Independence Day ceremony. The programme, now in its 17th consecutive year, is part of BRI's corporate social responsibility efforts to support youth dedication and educational continuity. A representative from the Pancasila Ideology Development Agency (BPIP) praised BRI's consistent commitment to the programme.

Video: Danantara Successfully Cuts Rp 50 Trillion in Losses from 52% of SOEs

BPI Danantara has reported significant progress in reforming Indonesia's state-owned enterprises, identifying that 52% of the 1,074 SOEs were loss-making and inefficient, costing Rp 50 trillion annually. The agency plans to reduce the number of SOEs to 254 by the end of 2026 through liquidation, divestment, consolidation, and restructuring. Chief Operating Officer Dony Oskaria outlined these achievements in a CNBC Indonesia interview.

China warns against unilateral US sanctions 'economic strangulation' of Iran

China has strongly opposed unilateral US sanctions against Iran, describing them as illegal and lacking international legal basis. Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian warned that economic warfare and maximum pressure would only heighten tensions and disrupt global economic order. Beijing affirmed its cooperation with Iran is conducted within international law and pledged to take necessary measures to protect its legitimate rights.

BI Governor Fit and Proper Test: Destry Unveils 3 Missions and 5 Initiatives to Ensure BI Credibility and Drive Sustainable Economic Growth

Destry Damayanti, candidate for Governor of Bank Indonesia, presented her vision during a fit and proper test before House Commission XI, outlining three missions and five strategic initiatives. Her plan focuses on maintaining stability, supporting sustainable growth, and strengthening stakeholder synergy through the 'Sinergi Merah Putih' framework. Key initiatives include reinforcing BI's policy mix, revitalising foreign exchange flow policies with digital supervision, and advancing inclusive and sustainable finance.

Ministries Request Budget for Forest Fire Handling, Purbaya: As Long as No Mark-Up

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed the government is open to increasing budgets for ministries and agencies handling forest and land fires. He noted that BNPB has a Rp5 trillion disaster management ceiling that can be topped up if needed, while the Ministry of Forestry has already received partial additional funding. Purbaya stressed that any additional costs must not be marked up, given the different approach required for disaster response.

After leading meeting, Prabowo checks on earthquake evacuees in Nagekeo, NTT

President Prabowo Subianto visited earthquake evacuees in Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, after chairing a coordination meeting on disaster response. He received reports on shelter facilities and assured residents that the government would continue sending aid and accelerate housing repairs. The President also asked evacuees to remain patient, citing expert assessments that conditions could become relatively safe within three weeks.

Envision Energy Inaugurates Philippines National Distribution Center

Envision Energy has opened a 1,500 square metre national distribution centre in the Philippines to store wind turbine components and spare parts, improving supply chain efficiency and reducing downtime for its projects across the country. The facility is part of the company's wider global logistics network and is intended to support the accelerating renewable energy transition in Southeast Asia. Senior Vice President Edward Hou emphasised that local infrastructure and responsive service networks are essential for the long-term reliability of clean energy assets.

Government Confirms Rp20 Billion Aid for NTT Earthquake Response Has Been Disbursed

President Prabowo Subianto has received confirmation that Rp20 billion in aid for each earthquake-affected district in East Nusa Tenggara has been disbursed and received by local governments. The funds are earmarked exclusively for disaster response. The provincial government has also received Rp40 billion, with additional support mobilised from local businesses to meet the basic needs of displaced residents.

AI developed by Hong Kong university successfully boosts academic performance

A study by the Education University of Hong Kong has found that its AI platform EASE significantly improves self-directed learning and academic performance among students. The platform, focused on mathematics education, provides personalised practice, real-time feedback, and automated marking. Researchers say the tool positions AI as a learning assistant and fosters sustainable study habits.

Prabowo Reveals Reason for Not Visiting NTT at Start of Earthquake: To Avoid Splitting Focus

President Prabowo Subianto has explained that he deliberately delayed visiting the earthquake-hit area of Nusa Tenggara Timur to allow officials to focus on serving affected residents. He argued that the arrival of senior central government figures could divert local officials' attention towards protocol duties. Prabowo stressed that the central government's priority was mobilising aid and services rather than making symbolic visits.

Cyber University Lecturer Highlights Potential of Simple Agentic AI to Boost Work Efficiency

A Cyber University lecturer has outlined how simple implementations of Agentic AI can improve everyday work efficiency, particularly for Indonesian industries and MSMEs. The technology, which can plan, make decisions, and execute tasks autonomously, is becoming more accessible due to evolving frameworks and tools in 2026. Gradual adoption, supported by human oversight, is seen as a pathway to more efficient work processes and digital talent development.

Mandiri CEO Vows to Reactivate Botok Pati's Account, Promises Best Service

Bank Mandiri's CEO Riduan has pledged to promptly reactivate the account of Supriyono, also known as Botok, coordinator of the Pati United Community Alliance, following a request from the National Police's Criminal Investigation Directorate. The bank apologised for any inconvenience and reaffirmed its commitment to prudent and healthy banking practices. Police explained the temporary block was intended to protect the personal data of Botok and his donors.

Ahead of 27 August Protest, Prabowo Mania 08 Urges Public Not to Be Provoked

Prabowo Mania 08 has called on Indonesians to remain calm and avoid provocation ahead of a planned demonstration on 27 August 2026. The group's secretary-general, Agustin Lumban Gaol, urged that any expression of aspirations be conducted constitutionally, peacefully and in an orderly manner. He also voiced support for the immediate passage of the Asset Forfeiture Bill and called on security forces to verify information about the planned protest.

Hashim Djojohadikusumo Acknowledges His Wealth Comes from Fossil Fuel Business

Hashim Djojohadikusumo, Indonesia's Special Envoy for Climate and Energy, has openly admitted that most of his personal wealth derives from the oil, gas and mining sectors. Speaking at a carbon capture forum, he argued that Indonesia can pursue its 8% economic growth target while still aiming for net zero emissions by 2060. He highlighted carbon capture technologies and the use of microalgae to convert CO2 into valuable products as key solutions.

Military commander: 2,190 joint personnel on standby to face forest and land fires in Papua

A total of 2,190 joint personnel from the military, police, disaster agency and fire service have been placed on standby across three provinces in Papua to anticipate forest and land fires. Six hotspots were recently detected in Nabire, Puncak and Biak Numfor, but all have been extinguished. The regional military commander said monitoring continues through the Sipongi app, BMKG satellite data and public reports, with the current status still at a safe level.

Central Java Police Remind Students to Express Aspirations Peacefully and Responsibly

Central Java Police have urged students participating in a rally by the Semarang Raya BEM Alliance to exercise their right to free speech peacefully, orderly, and responsibly. Police spokesperson Kombes Yuliyanto emphasised that while students have the right to voice criticism and demands, they must also respect the rights of others, obey the law, and maintain public order. The police called for constructive dialogue as part of a healthy democracy.

China has formulated nearly 200 key standards for the AI sector

China has developed almost 200 core standards for artificial intelligence to guide the sector towards healthy and orderly development, according to a vice minister. AI is now largely integrated across the country's industrial chain, and several cities are being coordinated to conduct ethics reviews and AI service practices. The government also announced plans to accelerate 6G core technology development during the 15th Five-Year Plan period.

Video: Dony Oskaria and the Results of 1.5 Years of Danantara Managing 1,074 State-Owned Enterprises

Dony Oskaria, Chief Operating Officer of BPI Danantara, has outlined the agency's achievements since its launch by President Prabowo Subianto in February 2025. Danantara is reviewing 1,074 state-owned enterprises, of which 52 per cent are loss-making and inefficient, costing up to Rp 50 trillion annually. The reform programme aims to reduce the number of SOEs to 254 profitable entities by the end of 2026.

Bawaslu invites students to become digital literacy agents for elections

Indonesia's Election Supervisory Body (Bawaslu) is engaging university students as digital literacy and election monitoring agents to strengthen public participation amid digital-era challenges. The initiative, launched through the Bawaslu Campus Connect programme at Airlangga University, aims to build collaboration with higher education institutions on electoral literacy and oversight. Bawaslu is also strengthening digital regulations and exploring cooperation with digital platforms to support election supervision.

Prabowo Receives Report: Many NTT Residents Flee in Fear of Aftershocks

President Prabowo Subianto has been briefed on the ongoing displacement crisis in East Nusa Tenggara, where many residents are avoiding centralised shelters due to fear of aftershocks and misinformation circulating on social media. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency reported 143 felt aftershocks, with the strongest at magnitude 6.2, alongside hoaxes warning of a larger quake and tsunami. Authorities are working to counter the rumours and encourage people to move to official evacuation centres.

BSI: Hajj and Umrah savings reach 7.69 million accounts by June 2026

PT Bank Syariah Indonesia Tbk (BSI) reported that its Hajj and Umrah savings accounts grew 23.8 percent year-on-year to 7.69 million by the end of June 2026, with third-party funds rising 17.2 percent to Rp16.7 trillion. The bank is reinforcing its position in the halal ecosystem through its fourth participation as official bank partner of Saudia Travel Fair 2026. BSI is offering promotional discounts and instalment facilities to support customers planning religious travel.

'Doomsday' Oarfish Found on Lombok's Pink Beach, Suspected Link to NTT Earthquake

A rare oarfish, approximately four metres long, was found dead on Pink Beach in East Lombok. The head of NTB's Marine and Fisheries Agency suggested its appearance may be linked to the recent magnitude 7.7 earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, citing possible changes in sea temperature. He stressed that the 'doomsday' myth surrounding the fish has not been scientifically proven and called for further research.

Prabowo Visits Earthquake Victims' Tents in Nagekeo

President Prabowo Subianto visited evacuation tents for earthquake victims in Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, on Wednesday (26/8). He assured residents that central and regional governments would work hard to restore conditions. The death toll from the earthquake has risen to 105, with over 179,000 people displaced.

Finland and Saudi Arabia to be guest countries of honour at 26th CIFIT

The 26th China International Fair for Investment and Trade (CIFIT) will take place in Xiamen from 8 to 11 September 2026, with Finland and Saudi Arabia named as the first-ever guest countries of honour. The event underscores China's growing investment ties with both nations, with bilateral trade exceeding US$8 billion with Finland and surpassing US$100 billion with Saudi Arabia for four consecutive years.

Rice Prices Soar, Bulog Malang Distributes Government Rice Reserves

Perum Bulog's Malang branch has begun distributing government rice reserves to 54,820 beneficiaries across Malang City as commercial rice prices surge. The distribution covers the July-September 2026 allocation, with each recipient receiving 30 kg of rice. Local traders report significant price increases and declining purchasing power, while the city government is considering market operations to control inflation.

South Korea steps up checks as China probes formaldehyde-tainted cabbages

South Korea and Taiwan have tightened inspections of Chinese cabbage and kimchi imports after a viral video revealed workers in Hebei province dipping cabbages in formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, to preserve freshness. Chinese authorities have launched nationwide inspections and taken legal measures against those involved, while South Korea has so far found no contamination in tested batches. The scandal has reignited regional concerns over food safety in Chinese agricultural exports, echoing a similar formaldehyde case in 2012.

Jakarta Transport Agency Confirms No Parking Tariff Increase: Circulating Figures Are Proposals

The Jakarta Transportation Agency (Dishub DKI) has clarified that proposed parking tariff increases of up to Rp 60,000 per hour are not final and remain under review. Current tariffs, governed by Governor Regulation No. 31 of 2017 and Regional Regulation No. 1 of 2024, remain unchanged. The agency is focusing on improving parking management through digitalisation, enhanced supervision, and enforcement against illegal parking.

Logistics costs high, Purbaya calls for air cargo standardisation to be completed soon

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has urged the Ministry of Transportation to expedite regulations standardising air cargo cost components and business processes. The move responds to complaints from logistics association Asperindo about duplicate security and airport charges, as well as inconsistent volumetric weight calculations that have raised shipping costs by up to 20 percent. The government hopes the new rules will make airport cargo charges more transparent and support logistics cost efficiency.

KPK Says Corruption in Goods and Services Procurement Can Lower Development Quality

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has warned that corrupt practices in government procurement of goods and services can reduce the quality of development delivered to the public. Deputy Chairman Ibnu Basuki Widodo highlighted that substandard goods or services are often knowingly supplied due to collusion among parties involved in procurement. The KPK recorded 426 procurement-related corruption cases from 2004 to the second quarter of 2025, making it the second most common corruption category after bribery and gratuities.

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.

Health Ministry Prepares Circular on Distance Learning as Air Quality Worsens Due to Forest Fires

Indonesia's Health Ministry is preparing a circular to encourage distance learning and reduced outdoor activities as air quality deteriorates due to forest and land fires. The ministry has coordinated with the education and religious affairs ministries to protect vulnerable groups from hazardous air pollution. Air quality monitoring shows dangerous levels in several regions, including Muaro Jambi and Palangkaraya.

House Commission III Holds Joint Press Conference with Metro Jaya Police and Bank Mandiri, Botok Pati's Account Reactivated

House Commission III Chairman Habiburokhman held a joint press conference with Metro Jaya Police Chief Komjen Asep Edi Suheri and Bank Mandiri CEO Riduan to address the blocking of activist Supriyono alias Botok's account. The police explained the transaction suspension was a protective measure for the account holder and donors, while Bank Mandiri confirmed it would reactivate the account. Habiburokhman stressed that expressing opinions within legal bounds is guaranteed in Indonesia and urged the account be restored immediately.

Jambi Customs Seizes 223,692 Illegal Cigarettes in Kerinci and Sungai Penuh

Jambi Customs and Excise has seized 223,692 illegal cigarettes without excise stamps during market operations in Kerinci Regency and Sungai Penuh City. The operation, conducted jointly with the Military Police, brings total illegal cigarette seizures in Jambi to nearly 6 million sticks as of August 2026, with estimated state losses of Rp 4.61 billion. Officials also provided education to traders on excise regulations and the role of tobacco excise as a source of state revenue.

UNM Data Science Programme Earns 'Excellent' Accreditation, Ready to Produce Future Digital Talent

Universitas Nusa Mandiri's undergraduate Data Science programme has been awarded an 'Excellent' accreditation by LAM INFOKOM, valid from July 2026 to July 2031. The recognition underscores the university's commitment to aligning its curriculum with developments in data, artificial intelligence, and digital business. The programme is supported by an internship scheme involving over 300 partner companies.

DPR Receives Non-ASN Teacher Representatives, Discusses Status Certainty in 2027

The House of Representatives (DPR) leadership met with the Indonesian Non-ASN State Teachers Advocacy Forum (FAGRI) to discuss the unresolved status of non-civil servant teachers. The teachers are seeking clarity on their employment status beyond 31 December 2026, as stipulated in Circular Letter Number 7 of 2026. They urged the government to ensure the completion of non-ASN teacher status resolution by 2027.

Telkom's Submarine Cables Go Global with Expansion into Africa and Latin America

PT Telkom Indonesia, through its subsidiary Telin, is expanding its international submarine cable network to Africa and Latin America. The company outlined three new corridors—Europe-Middle East-Africa, Transatlantic, and US-Latam—alongside its existing Asia-Pacific routes. The expansion aims to position Indonesia as a gateway between the Asia-Pacific market and the global digital economy.

BI Governor Candidate Destry Speaks Out on Widening Current Account Deficit

Bank Indonesia governor candidate Destry Damayanti has addressed Indonesia's record current account deficit, which reached US$12.5 billion or 3.3% of GDP in the second quarter of 2026. She highlighted the external sector challenges facing the country's balance of payments and stressed the need to boost exports and address the persistent services deficit.

Assessing the Domino Effect of Forest and Land Fires

Forest and land fires across several Indonesian regions have reached their highest level compared to previous events, with the peak of El Nino still expected in September. President Prabowo has mobilised significant resources, including dozens of helicopters and thousands of personnel, targeting full containment within one to two weeks. The government is now bracing for the ecological fallout and broader domino effects of the disaster.

Video: Danantara Speaks Frankly About the Source of Problems at Several State-Owned Enterprises

Danantara's Chief Operating Officer Dony Oskaria has identified financial engineering as a key source of problems at several Indonesian state-owned enterprises. He warned that polished financial reports can make companies appear healthier than they are, leading to flawed management decisions. Oskaria also highlighted the importance of auditor independence and credibility, noting that some SOEs have recorded impairments worth hundreds of trillions of rupiah.

Video: Danantara Transforms Danareksa, Cuts 50 Subsidiaries

BPI Danantara has consolidated state-owned enterprise asset management by transforming Danareksa, reducing its more than 50 subsidiaries into Danareksa Investment. The agency has also restructured Bank Himbara and reformed BRI, BNI, and Bank Mandiri to strengthen business growth and asset performance.

China reports stable strengthening of poverty alleviation results

China's State Council has reported consistent progress in consolidating poverty alleviation gains, with rural per capita disposable income in formerly impoverished areas rising from 12,588 yuan in 2020 to 18,627 yuan in 2025. The report highlights significant improvements in rural infrastructure and public services, alongside a narrowing development gap. It also acknowledges ongoing challenges, including the long-term risk of falling back into poverty.

Ahead of National Day celebrations, Malaysia to step up haze mitigation measures with Indonesia

Malaysia and Indonesia have agreed to intensify joint efforts to combat transboundary haze as unhealthy air quality affects parts of Malaysia ahead of its National Day. The commitment includes cross-border cloud seeding, additional Indonesian military personnel, and synchronised fire suppression operations. Both nations are preparing for worsening conditions due to the El Nino phenomenon and the Southwest Monsoon.

Police Explain Why No Criminal Charges for Man Who Harassed Taiwanese Tourist in Lovina

Buleleng Police have explained why no criminal proceedings were initiated against a local man who sexually harassed a Taiwanese tourist in Lovina, Bali. The victim declined to file a formal report despite being contacted through the Taiwan Police Attaché, and the case is classified as a complaint-based offence. Police say they will still impose social sanctions on the perpetrator to deter similar behaviour and protect Bali's tourism image.

Jakarta Transport Agency confirms no increase in parking tariffs

The Jakarta Provincial Government has confirmed that no parking tariff increase is currently in effect, dismissing circulating figures as outdated proposals from 2019 and 2022. The Transport Agency says any future tariff changes would require approval from the Governor and the Jakarta Regional Legislative Council (DPRD). The agency is instead focusing on improving parking management through digitalisation, enhanced supervision, and enforcement against illegal parking.

Haris Rusly suspects group wants to repeat August 2025 unrest

Activist Haris Rusly Moti has alleged that a covert group is seeking to recycle the August 2025 turmoil, marked by riots and looting of state officials' homes, through a planned mass action on 27 August 2026. He claims the group is using 'information laundering' to spread disinformation and provoke public unrest in an effort to delegitimise President Prabowo Subianto's policies. Haris argued that the demonstrators' demands for corruption eradication and asset seizures actually align with the government's own direction.

KPPU Investigates Cause of Chicken Price Surge in North Sumatra

The Competition Supervisory Commission (KPPU) is examining the entire distribution chain for chicken in North Sumatra after prices rose 7.9% in just four days. The watchdog is looking into potential anti-competitive practices, including supply manipulation and price-fixing, as well as the impact of the national free nutritious meals programme on market supply.

ESDM and SKK Migas Reveal Causes of Indonesia's Oil Production Below 600,000 Barrels

Indonesia's average oil production stood at 578,156 barrels per day as of 31 July 2026, below the government's annual target. Operational disruptions, including pipeline leaks and power supply issues at the Rokan Block, as well as a steep natural decline at the Cepu Block, have been identified as the main contributing factors. The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources and SKK Migas are working with operators to stabilise output and pursue the 2026 production target.

Purbaya Speaks Out on Deciles in Planned Pertalite Restrictions

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that the National Single Socio-Economic Database (DTSEN) is being improved by Statistics Indonesia (BPS) to better target fuel subsidies. He acknowledged concerns that the decile system may not yet reflect actual community conditions and said the government will handle cases individually until the updated database is ready.

On Pertalite Restrictions, Purbaya: Wait for the 'New DTSEN'

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has said the government is waiting for an improved Single Social and Economic Data (DTSEN) before implementing restrictions on subsidised Pertalite fuel. The Central Statistics Agency (BPS) is currently refining the database, including the decile system used to target fuel subsidies. Purbaya acknowledged that the current decile rankings may not fully reflect actual community conditions and expects the data to be more accurate next year.

Ahead of IPO, Anthropic Claims Potential Revenue of Rp 531 Quadrillion

Anthropic, the AI company behind chatbot Claude, is reportedly set to tell prospective investors that its total addressable market exceeds US$30 trillion, surpassing SpaceX's earlier claim of US$28.5 trillion. The company is targeting up to US$100 billion in fresh funds and a valuation of around US$2 trillion from its planned initial public offering. Analysts remain cautious, noting that TAM projections in the AI era are increasingly difficult to predict.

KPK: Corruption in procurement can lower development quality

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has warned that corrupt practices in government procurement of goods and services can significantly reduce the quality of development delivered to the public. Deputy Chairman Ibnu Basuki Widodo highlighted that substandard goods or services are often knowingly supplied, undermining the benefits of state spending. The KPK is supporting a new anti-corruption training programme for government procurement to strengthen prevention across all stages of the process.

Prabowo Inspects Evacuation Post for NTT Earthquake Victims

President Prabowo Subianto visited an evacuation post in Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara, following a magnitude 7 earthquake. He inspected clean water sources, water treatment facilities, and communal kitchens while accompanied by several ministers and the National Police chief. The President also chaired a coordination meeting, expressing appreciation for the rapid response of military, police, and disaster management agencies.

Cara Mengurus NIB Gratis dalam 10 Menit di Kota Tangerang

Pelaku usaha di Kota Tangerang dapat memperoleh Nomor Induk Berusaha (NIB) secara gratis melalui sistem Online Single Submission (OSS) dengan proses daring yang sederhana. Kepala DPMPTSP Kota Tangerang mendorong pelaku UMKM untuk memiliki legalitas usaha karena NIB memberikan kepastian identitas serta akses ke program pemberdayaan, pembiayaan, dan layanan pemerintah. Pemerintah kota juga menyediakan layanan pendampingan bagi pelaku usaha yang mengalami kendala dalam proses pengurusan.

Prabowo Explains Why He Did Not Visit NTT Earthquake Victims from the Outset

President Prabowo Subianto has explained his decision not to visit East Nusa Tenggara immediately after the earthquake, stating that it allowed relevant agencies to focus on serving affected communities. He emphasised that the central government's priority was mobilising aid and services rather than the presence of officials on the ground. Prabowo also expressed appreciation for the efforts of all institutions involved in the disaster response.

Observer reminds AMPB rally at DPR to remain peaceful

Executive Director of Skala Data Indonesia Arif Nurul Imam has urged participants of the Aliansi Masyarakat Pati Bersatu rally at the House of Representatives building to express their aspirations peacefully and avoid anarchic actions. He said the demonstrators' demands, including the passage of the Asset Forfeiture Bill and the death penalty for corruptors, deserve appreciation as public aspirations. Imam also warned participants to be alert to possible infiltrators seeking to provoke unrest.

Deputy Industry Minister says East Java consistently third-largest automotive market

Deputy Industry Minister Faisol Riza has highlighted East Java's steady position as Indonesia's third-largest automotive market, with a market share of 9.7 percent. He expressed optimism that domestic vehicle sales will exceed 850,000 units in 2026, potentially regaining the top regional ranking. The manufacturing sector grew 5.32 percent in the second quarter of 2026, contributing 16.83 percent to GDP.

ISPA Cases Rise in Six Provinces Due to Forest and Land Fires

Acute respiratory infection (ISPA) cases have risen significantly in six Indonesian provinces as a result of forest and land fires (karhutla). The Ministry of Health has mobilised 321 reserve health workers and several provinces have declared emergency alert status. Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and pregnant women, are being prioritised for protection.

Purbaya Confirms Readiness to Disburse Any Amount for Forest Fire Handling: As Long as It Is Not Marked Up

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that the government has prepared funds for additional forest and land fire (karhutla) disaster management needs and is ready to disburse them once requested. The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) currently holds a budget of Rp5 trillion for national disaster handling, but no new allocation has been made as the agency has not yet submitted a request. Purbaya stressed that any additional funding must be free from price manipulation, noting that disaster spending follows a different approach from ordinary expenditure.

ASDP Responds to Viral Video of Trader Complaining About Rp 650,000 Levy

State-owned ferry operator ASDP has clarified that not all payments demanded from traders at Merak Port constitute its own levies. The company stated it only collects a pass fee, while other charges for items such as vests are managed by a foundation overseeing the traders. The clarification follows a viral video in which a trader alleged extortion of Rp 650,000 to be allowed to sell at the port.

US discusses economic pressure on Iran with Bahrain

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent met Bahrain's finance minister to discuss Operation Economic Outcast, aimed at increasing economic pressure on Iran. Both sides agreed to continue coordination with Gulf states to combat illicit financial flows and strengthen economic security. The US has imposed new sectoral sanctions targeting Iran's foreign financing channels, while Tehran has vowed to resist Washington's economic pressure.

BNPB: Regional Logistics Warehouses to Speed Up Disaster Response Without Waiting for Central Government

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has proposed that every district and city establish its own logistics warehouse to serve as a buffer stock for emergency aid. The initiative aims to enable local governments to deliver assistance within the first hours after a disaster, rather than waiting for supplies from Jakarta. President Prabowo Subianto welcomed the proposal and called for it to be calculated on a national scale so that every province has adequate preparedness.

BRIN pushes geoinformatics adoption to tackle forest and land fires in Indonesia

Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is promoting satellite and geoinformatics technology as a key tool for early detection and management of forest and land fires. The system provides fire weather indices, daily hotspot monitoring, and burned-area mapping using high-resolution satellite imagery. The Forestry Ministry says the data is crucial for early warnings but still requires field verification using thermal drones and remote CCTV.

Navy confirms aircraft carrier use will follow TNI doctrine

The Indonesian Navy has confirmed that the aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi, to be named KRI Gajah Mada, will be operated in line with the Perisai Trisula Nusantara doctrine, supporting joint operations across all three branches of the TNI. The vessel will focus on military operations other than war, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, rather than offensive missions. Navy officials also outlined a gradual shift from a Green Water Navy to a Blue Water Navy concept, with the carrier seen as a key enabler for diplomacy and regional engagement.

Minimarket Coffee Outlet Employee Found Dead by Hanging in Warehouse

A 26-year-old employee of a coffee outlet at a minimarket in Badung, Bali, was found dead by hanging in the store's warehouse on Wednesday morning. The victim, identified by the initials YR and originally from Bogor, West Java, was discovered by a colleague during the morning shift. Police have confirmed the incident but have not yet disclosed details regarding the motive or preliminary findings.

135,000 Missing: Victims' Families Gather in the Capital

Families of Mexico's disappeared and advocacy groups gathered in Mexico City to prepare for the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances. Mexico has recorded more than 135,000 missing persons, a figure that has risen sharply since the 2006 war on drug cartels. Relatives complain of inefficient bureaucracy and lack of financial support, often conducting their own searches in dangerous areas.

Yusril urges HMI alumni to maintain solidarity despite diverse professions

Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra has called on alumni of the Islamic Students Association (HMI) to preserve their bonds of kinship and solidarity across professional and political divides. Speaking after a gathering in Jakarta, he expressed appreciation for the event's organisers and voiced hope that such meetings would strengthen the alumni network's contribution to society and national development.

Klungkung Regency Government Sends 1.5 Tonnes of Rice and Hundreds of Food Packages to NTT

The Klungkung Regency Government has dispatched humanitarian aid, including 1.5 tonnes of rice and hundreds of food packages, to earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara. The aid was collected from local institutions and residents and will be distributed through military channels. Separately, the East Nusa Tenggara High Prosecutor's Office has sent Rp 640 million in aid, while the Reo branch prosecutor's office building suffered severe damage.

Canada announces retaliatory tariffs on more than 700 US goods

Canada has unveiled retaliatory tariffs on over 700 American products worth C$27.6 billion, alongside a C$7.5 billion support package for domestic businesses and workers. The measures are designed to match the value of Canadian goods targeted by recent US tariffs of 50 per cent, reflecting a 'dollar-for-dollar, tariff-for-tariff' response. The new tariffs are scheduled to take effect on 8 September.

Bappenas stresses mineral downstreaming must be low-emission

National Development Planning Minister Rachmat Pambudy has emphasised that Indonesia's critical mineral downstreaming must adopt low-emission principles to access premium global markets and meet strict carbon standards such as the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism. He said green economy transformation is now central to strengthening national competitiveness, productivity and investment security. The government has set green economy as a key pillar towards the Indonesia Emas 2045 vision, targeting 6-8 percent economic growth alongside net zero emissions by 2060 or sooner.

Destry Proposes Red and White Synergy to Lead Bank Indonesia

Destry Damayanti, candidate for Governor of Bank Indonesia, has presented her vision of 'Bank Indonesia: Red and White Synergy for the Welfare of the Indonesian People' during a fit and proper test before House Commission XI. Her platform rests on three missions and five strategic initiatives aimed at maintaining stability while supporting sustainable economic growth. She emphasised that the central bank cannot face complex economic challenges alone and must strengthen coordination with the government, regional authorities, and other stakeholders.

Viral Issue on Presidential Term, Dedek Prayudi: Budi Arie's Place Is Not in PSI

The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) has stated it will not accept Projo chairman Budi Arie Setiadi as a member should he apply, following his viral remarks about the possibility of changing the government mid-term. PSI central board member Dedek Prayudi said the rejection is based on a mismatch of values and track record, citing the party's firm opposition to any mid-term change of government. He added that regional and branch-level party officials have also agreed to reject Budi Arie's potential membership.

Prabowo Approves BNPB Proposal to Build Disaster Logistics Warehouses in Every Region

President Prabowo Subianto has endorsed a proposal from the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) requiring every regional disaster agency to maintain its own logistics warehouses and emergency stockpiles. The move follows the recent earthquake in Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara, where empty regional warehouses hampered early response efforts. The central government plans to assist provinces and regencies in establishing these reserves to ensure faster local disaster response.

BI Governor Candidate Says Rupiah Should Be Stronger Than Rp17,700/US$

Destry Damayanti, a candidate for Bank Indonesia governor, has stated that the rupiah is currently undervalued and should be stronger than its present level of around Rp17,700 per US dollar. She attributed recent currency weakness primarily to market sentiment rather than fundamental economic problems. Damayanti emphasised the need for long-term improvements in Indonesia's balance of payments through stronger export performance.

NTT Logistics Abundant, Distribution Becomes the Challenge

The government has confirmed that supplies for earthquake victims in Nusa Tenggara Timur are sufficient, with the focus now shifting to last-mile delivery to remote villages. Geographic challenges and the spread of evacuation sites require the use of small, highly mobile vehicles, including 200 motorcycles and personnel on foot. Health services are also adapting, with field tents and hospital ships deployed as many community health centres remain closed due to aftershock fears.

Internship at LLDIKTI III: UNM Informatics Student Sharpens Skills and Prepares for Career

A Nusa Mandiri University informatics student has completed an internship at the Higher Education Service Institution (LLDIKTI) Region III, gaining practical experience in web application development within a government setting. The programme, facilitated by the university's career centre, aims to bridge academic learning with professional workplace demands. University officials hope the experience will motivate other students to pursue similar opportunities.

Green economy to become new growth engine for Indonesia: Minister

National Development Planning Minister Rachmat Pambudy has outlined how the green economy will serve as a key driver of Indonesia's target of 6-8 percent economic growth. The strategy aims to create 1.2 million green jobs annually and boost gross national income per capita to US$30,300. The government is prioritising green industrialisation, critical mineral downstreaming, and energy transition to achieve net zero emissions by 2060 or sooner.

Telkom seizes opportunity to make Indonesia a global submarine cable route

Telkom Indonesia is positioning the country's waters as an alternative global submarine cable route, capitalising on geopolitical crises and trade tensions. The state-owned enterprise is developing the Indonesia Cable Express (ICE) to create integrated strategic corridors linking Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the Americas. The initiative is expected to attract significant foreign investment through consortium partnerships.

BNPB Confirms Electricity in NTT 100% Restored and Fuel Supply Smooth

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has confirmed that fuel supplies in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) are flowing smoothly on the twelfth day of the earthquake emergency response. Electricity networks have been fully restored across the affected region, with the exception of the remote island of Palue, where 84.59 per cent of the network is still being repaired. Telecommunications are fully operational, while Manggarai and East Manggarai remain the worst-affected districts.

National Police Chief: Polri Members Raise Rp 12.6 Billion in Contributions for NTT Earthquake Victims

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo reported that Indonesian National Police (Polri) members have collectively raised Rp 12.68 billion to support victims of the M 7.7 earthquake in Nusa Tenggara Timur. The funds were announced during a coordination meeting led by President Prabowo Subianto in Nagekeo. Polri has also established emergency posts, health posts, trauma healing centres, and distributed over 284 tonnes of logistical aid.

Jambi forest and land fire task force uses containment strategy to prevent spread

The forest and land fire task force in Tanjung Jabung Timur, Jambi, is employing a containment strategy using excavators to dig firebreaks and prevent further spread of fires on peatland. The fires, which began on 25 August, have burned 108 hectares, with 53 hotspots recorded in August alone. Local officials note that 56 per cent of the regency's land area is peatland, making it highly vulnerable during the dry season.

Budi Arie apologises over 'early election' remarks controversy

Projo chairman Budi Arie Setiadi has apologised for his speculative remarks about the possibility of an early general election before 2029, saying they were purely his personal analysis and unrelated to former president Joko Widodo. The comments, made in a video alongside Jokowi, sparked public speculation and drew responses from politicians, including Gerindra, which said it was unaffected. Budi Arie said he was ready to accept responsibility for the controversy.

Customs Supports Border Economic Development at Temajuk Cross-Border Post Reactivation

Indonesian customs officials attended the soft launch of the reactivated Temajuk Cross-Border Post in Sambas, West Kalimantan, which connects directly to Telok Melano, Sarawak. The reopening follows the 2023 Indonesia–Malaysia Border Crossing Agreement and aims to boost local economic potential, tourism, and legal cross-border mobility. The post is expected to serve as a foundation for upgrading to a full State Border Crossing Post by 2027.

Purbaya Allocates Rp7 Trillion to BPS to Improve Decile Data Collection

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that the government is continuing to improve the National Single Social and Economic Data (DTSEN), which serves as the basis for determining decile classifications. The Ministry of Finance has allocated approximately Rp7 trillion to the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) for this purpose and for the 2026 National Economic Census. Purbaya expressed confidence that the improvements will result in better and more orderly data by next year.

Shares Up 25% in a Month, This Issuer Announces a Series of Corporate Actions

PT Harta Djaya Karya Tbk (MEJA), an interior design and furniture company, has announced a series of corporate actions including an increase in authorised capital, a rights issue, and the acquisition of PT Trimata Coal Perkasa as part of its transformation into a holding company. Shareholders approved the capital increase at an extraordinary general meeting on 21 August 2026, with the rights issue priced between Rp450 and Rp550 per share. The company targets completing the business transformation, acquisition, and rights issue in the fourth quarter of 2026.

Drugs and desertion: 10 North Sumatra Brimob personnel dismissed

The North Sumatra Police Mobile Brigade (Brimob) has dishonourably discharged 10 personnel for offences including drug abuse, desertion, and embezzlement. Commander Kombes Pol. Rendra Salipu said the dismissals were a consequence of the violations and should serve as a lesson for the entire unit. He urged remaining personnel to uphold police regulations and to remind colleagues who begin to deviate from the rules.

Riau Police Send 25,000 Masks and Portable Oxygen to Tackle Forest Fires in Pelalawan

Riau Police have distributed 25,000 masks and 30 portable oxygen units to support communities and firefighters affected by forest and land fires in Kerumutan, Pelalawan. The number of hotspots in Riau has fallen by 60.9 per cent to 100, with Kerumutan showing a 66.67 per cent reduction. Authorities remain on high alert, with nine high-category hotspots still requiring priority handling.

Account Transaction Freezes: YLKI Stresses Legal Compliance and Customer Rights

The Indonesian Consumers Foundation (YLKI) has reminded banks that they must comply with lawful orders to freeze accounts while still upholding customer rights. YLKI member Rio Priambodo emphasised that a temporary freeze is a security measure and does not prove guilt, with the presumption of innocence to be maintained throughout legal proceedings.

Bareskrim Uncovers Illegal Gold Smuggling Syndicate to Hong Kong, Modus Operandi Involves Body Strapping

Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has dismantled a syndicate smuggling illegal gold to Hong Kong by strapping it to couriers' bodies. A suspect identified as R was arrested at Soekarno-Hatta Airport, leading investigators to a house in North Jakarta allegedly used for gold refining and transactions. Authorities are now tracing financial flows with PPATK and pursuing a Chinese national, GCZ, believed to be the network's mastermind.

Budi Arie Clarifies Viral Video on Early Election

Budi Arie Setiadi, chairman of the pro-Jokowi volunteer group Projo, has apologised for remarks in a viral video in which he speculated about the possibility of an early election. He stressed that his analysis was a personal view and had no connection to President Joko Widodo, who was present at the event. Budi Arie said he was ready to accept any consequences for his statements.

Airlangga says shopping tourism is a new engine of economic growth

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has identified shopping tourism as a new driver of Indonesia's economic growth, citing a 5.71 percent year-on-year rise in foreign tourist arrivals to 7.45 million in the first half of 2026. He also highlighted the potential of domestic tourism, with 630.41 million domestic trips recorded in the same period, and urged retailers to work with the government on stock, distribution and product quality to capture more spending at home.

35th NU Congress Implements Chip Cards and 100 CCTV Cameras for Digital Security

The 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress in Jombang, East Java, has introduced chip-based smart cards and an integrated surveillance system to enhance participant verification and security. The digital infrastructure aims to prevent access manipulation and ensure orderly proceedings at the national-scale event. Organisers hope the system will set a new standard for managing large religious organisation events in Indonesia.

Indonesian Defence Ministry's Bacadnas: Veteran candidate registration carried out in stages

The Indonesian Ministry of Defence's Veteran Centre has outlined a tiered registration process for prospective veterans, spanning from district military commands to central verification. Brigadier General Asep Tardiyana Wachgi emphasised that organisational restructuring aims to improve the delivery of government support to veterans. He also warned of criminal sanctions for false claims made to obtain veteran honours.

America Finally Yields, Now Chooses Peace with China

Huawei Technologies and HP Inc. have agreed a multi-year cross-licensing deal covering Wi-Fi patents, including the latest Wi-Fi 7 standard. The agreement ends a legal dispute before the Unified Patent Court in Europe and demonstrates Huawei's continued strength in global wireless patent ownership despite US sanctions. HP stressed the arrangement is a routine industry-standard licence and does not signal a broader strategic partnership.

West Java BPBD Records 132 Forest and Land Fires in August 2026, Sumedang Highest

The West Java Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) recorded 132 forest and land fire incidents across the province during August 2026, affecting 196.40 hectares. Sumedang Regency had the highest frequency with 20 incidents, while Sukabumi Regency suffered the largest burned area at 49.20 hectares. The fires were spread across 91 sub-districts and 153 villages or urban wards.

MPR Deputy Speaker urges 100 GWp solar power project to drive green industry

Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly Eddy Soeparno has welcomed the groundbreaking of a 100 gigawatt peak solar power plant, calling it a strategic leap that could position Indonesia as a major solar energy player in Asia. He urged that the project be used to build a domestic green industry ecosystem, including solar panel, battery and energy storage manufacturing. Soeparno also stressed the need to integrate the development with national industrialisation through local content requirements, technology transfer and workforce development.

Bareskrim Raids Base of Gold Smugglers to Hong Kong, Seizes Airsoft Gun

Indonesian police have raided a house in North Jakarta believed to be the base of an illegal gold refining and smuggling syndicate targeting Hong Kong. The operation followed the arrest of an Indonesian suspect at Soekarno-Hatta Airport, who led investigators to the property. Authorities seized gold detection equipment, cash, documents, and an airsoft gun, and are pursuing other suspects including a Chinese national.

Judge's Considerations Nullify Suspect Status of Former Condongcatur Village Head Reno

The Yogyakarta District Court has nullified the suspect status of former Condongcatur village head Reno Candra Sangaji in a land misuse case, ruling that the Yogyakarta High Prosecutor's Office failed to present the formal investigation order as evidence. The judge found the absence of the investigation warrant rendered the entire investigation legally flawed, including the state loss audit report. The court also ordered the immediate release of Reno and another suspect from detention.

Gus Yahya Highlights Potential for Conflict in Congress Sessions: Large Screens Needed to Monitor Unrest

PBNU Chairman KH Yahya Cholil Staquf has called for technical improvements at the 35th NU Congress in Jombang, including large screens in every session venue to monitor potential disturbances. He also stressed strict discipline over microphone use to prevent uncontrolled interruptions during deliberations. Gus Yahya expressed confidence that the congress has the blessing of NU founder KH A. Wahab Chasbullah.

PHR operates early production facility at new Libo oil field

PT Pertamina Hulu Rokan (PHR) Zona Rokan has commenced operations of an Early Production Facility at the Libo Gathering Station in Siak Regency, Riau. The facility is designed to boost oil production capacity and alleviate facility constraints, reinforcing the company's contribution to national energy security. The project forms part of a broader series of strategic upgrades at the Libo field, including electrical infrastructure improvements.

South Kalimantan PUPR Agency supplies water 24 hours to strengthen forest fire handling

The South Kalimantan Public Works and Spatial Planning Agency (PUPR) is supplying water around the clock to support forest and land fire suppression in priority areas of the Liang Anggang and Guntung Damar protected forests in Banjarbaru. The agency has deployed one eight-inch pump and approximately fifteen four-inch dumping pumps to maintain continuous wetting operations. Water is also being channelled to the Jokowi Embung to support ground teams and provide a water source for aerial firefighting operations by the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB).

Sape Bima Port Office in NTB Demonstrated Against and Sealed by Residents over Employee Dismissal

Residents in Sape, Bima Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, have demonstrated against and sealed the Class III Port Organising Unit (UPP) office following the dismissal of a part-time government contract worker. The protesters are demanding that Sumiati, a PPPK PW employee with seven years of service, be reinstated after her contract was not renewed for 2027. Police and joint security forces are on site, urging demonstrators to avoid damaging public facilities or disrupting port activities.

Destry to Use SRBI to Lower Bank Interest Rates, Here's How

Destry Damayanti, candidate for Bank Indonesia Governor, plans to shift the focus of SRBI policy towards interest rate transmission to help lower market rates. She has already reduced SRBI issuance as interim governor to maintain market liquidity. The outstanding SRBI has been reduced to Rp1,050 trillion in a gradual effort to align with the overnight rate.

Indonesia, India pursue strategic industrial cooperation at BRICS

Indonesia and India are deepening industrial cooperation following bilateral talks at the BRICS Industry Ministers' Meeting, focusing on green industry, semiconductors, and agro-industry. Trade between the two nations reached US$23.16 billion in 2025, though Indonesia's non-oil and gas manufacturing exports to India have declined. Both sides agreed to review Indonesia's import quota restrictions on Indian products while exploring expanded semiconductor and digital transformation collaboration.

UBSI Research Team Holds FGD in Mataram to Refine Study on Students' Green Purchasing Behaviour

Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) held a focus group discussion in Mataram to refine a government-funded study on green purchasing behaviour among university students. The research examines how ecological paradigms and social norms shape sustainable consumption, with findings expected to inform higher education policy and green campus initiatives.

Iran Insists Strait of Hormuz Remains Closed, Conditions US Compliance with Commitments

Iran has reaffirmed that the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping lane, will remain closed to international traffic until the United States fulfils its international commitments and halts armed conflict. Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi stated that no foreign military vessels will be permitted to transit, while commercial ships will be subject to strict Iranian oversight. Diplomatic efforts with Oman are ongoing to establish a temporary navigation corridor and mine-clearing mechanism.

Telkom CEO Unveils Targets Through 2030, Major Transformation

PT Telkom Indonesia has outlined its Telkom 30 strategy, a five-year transformation plan running to 2030 built on four fundamental pillars. The state-owned telecommunications company aims to shift from connectivity and infrastructure towards intelligence and digital opportunities. The plan includes organisational restructuring into a strategic holding and expansion across B2C, B2B infrastructure, international B2B, and B2B IT services.

Ministry stresses public understanding crucial for accurate decile determination

The Ministry of Population and Family Development (Kemendukbangga/BKKBN) has urged the public to answer data collectors' questions honestly, warning that inaccurate responses could lead to misguided government policies. Deputy for Population Control Bonivasius Prasetya Ichtiarto also highlighted the need for better training and layered supervision of enumerators to prevent data mismatches.

Jakarta DPRD receives 21,000 proposals during third 2026 recess period

The Jakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD DKI Jakarta) collected 21,115 public proposals during its third recess period of the 2025-2026 sitting year. The proposals cover infrastructure, education, health, social welfare, and economic sectors, and will be forwarded to the governor for consideration in the regional development planning process.

KPK Examines Kediri Customs Office Head Gatot Heroe

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has examined Gatot Heroe Hernanda, Head of the Kediri Customs and Excise Office, as a suspect in an ongoing bribery investigation. The examination is part of a broader probe into alleged corruption within the Directorate General of Customs and Excise at the Ministry of Finance. The case stems from legal facts that emerged during the trial of import bribery involving PT Blueray Cargo owner John Field and others.

Following Up on Post-Earthquake Coordination, Public Works Minister Inspects Lake Kelimutu

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo inspected Lake Kelimutu in Ende Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, following reports of cracks caused by recent earthquakes on Flores Island. The inspection found thin cracks and new landslides around the lake, with concerns that ongoing seismic activity could widen the fissures and reduce water volume. The ministry will coordinate with the Forestry Ministry on mitigation measures for the national park area.

KPK summons graft suspect and wife of former East Java DPRD speaker in grant fund case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned Bagus Wahyudiono, a suspect in the East Java provincial grant fund corruption case, and Fujika Senna Oktavia, wife of the late former DPRD speaker Kusnadi, for questioning as witnesses. The investigation stems from a 2022 sting operation and involves allegations of bribery related to community group grants between 2019 and 2022. As of July 2026, only eight of the 20 remaining suspects have been detained.

KPK examines Kediri Customs Head Gatot Heroe as suspect

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is questioning Gatot Heroe Hernanda, Head of the Kediri Customs Office, as a suspect in an alleged corruption case within the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. Gatot previously served as Head of the Customs Enforcement Sub-Directorate from June 2023 to February 2026. The examination is part of a broader investigation that has already named several other customs officials and private sector figures as suspects.

Prabowo Disburses Rp20 Billion Earthquake Aid for Each NTT Regency

President Prabowo Subianto has allocated Rp20 billion in government aid for each affected regency and Rp40 billion for the provincial government in East Nusa Tenggara to support earthquake disaster response. The funds were confirmed during a coordination meeting at the disaster command post in Nagekeo Regency, with BNPB chief Suharyanto stressing that the money must be used exclusively for disaster management. Governor Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena expressed gratitude and noted that additional assistance was also provided to East Flores, which has been impacted by the ongoing Lewotobi volcano eruption.

Zulhas Reveals Why PSEL Projects Are in Demand: Carbon Trading Potential

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan has highlighted carbon trading potential as a key driver behind growing investor interest in waste-to-energy (PSEL) projects. He noted that the government is streamlining regulations to accelerate urban waste management and provide business certainty for investors. The projects are also supported by long-term power purchase agreements with PLN, strengthening their appeal to multinational investors.

Pamekasan's efforts to support beef self-sufficiency with Madura cattle

Pamekasan Regency in East Java is intensifying programmes to boost the population and quality of Madura cattle, a local breed, in support of President Prabowo Subianto's target for Indonesia to achieve beef self-sufficiency within five to six years. The initiatives include the Sang Sultan and Papa Baru schemes, which focus on simultaneous breeding development across several sub-districts. National data shows Indonesia still faces a significant beef deficit, with production of around 491,700 tonnes against consumption needs of 724,200 tonnes in 2025.

Parigi Moutong Regency declares flash flood emergency status

The Parigi Moutong Regency administration in Central Sulawesi has declared a 14-day emergency response status following a flash flood that struck Avolua Village in North Parigi District. The disaster damaged at least 12 homes, submerged 50 houses in mud, and disrupted a 500-metre stretch of the Trans Sulawesi road. Around 200 military and police personnel have been deployed alongside local teams to clear debris and restore basic services.

KPK Examines Gatot Heroe, New Suspect in Customs Import Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has examined Gatot Heroe, a newly named suspect in a bribery case at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. He is a civil servant in the Enforcement Sub-Directorate of Directorate P2. The examination is part of an expanded investigation into alleged corruption related to customs and excise.

BNPB Maps Impact of M7.7 NTT Earthquake from the Air, Prepares Logistics Drops

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has conducted an aerial survey to map areas affected by the magnitude 7.7 earthquake in Nusa Tenggara Timur. The survey identified isolated settlements in hilly terrain that cannot be reached by road, prompting plans for air-dropped logistics. BNPB will integrate the aerial findings with ground surveys to detail housing damage and ensure aid reaches remote communities.

Egg, Chicken Price Slump Spurs Push for Processing Industry

Indonesia's surplus production of eggs and chicken meat has driven farm-gate prices below reference levels, prompting economists to call for downstream processing and stock management to absorb excess supply. The government is urged to strengthen redistribution from surplus to deficit regions and increase absorption through programmes such as MBG Kitchens and cooperatives. Meanwhile, rising rice prices have drawn attention from Statistics Indonesia and Bulog, which is stepping up market interventions to stabilise costs.

Danantara Mulai Groundbreaking Proyek PSEL Bekasi Senilai Rp 3 Triliun, Target Beroperasi 2028

Danantara Indonesia has commenced construction of a Rp 3 trillion waste-to-energy facility in Bekasi, West Java, marking a significant step in national waste management transformation. The project, scheduled to be fully operational by mid-2028, will process 1,500 tonnes of waste daily using EU-standard incinerator technology and supply electricity to PLN at USD 0.20 per kWh. It is expected to create up to 1,000 green jobs and provide clean energy to tens of thousands of households.

KPK summons four witnesses in foreigner residence permit case in Bali

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned four witnesses for questioning in Denpasar, Bali, as part of an investigation into alleged extortion related to residence permits for foreign nationals. The case has already led to the naming of eight suspects, including former Deputy Minister of Immigration and Corrections Silmy Karim. Investigators estimate the suspects gained around Rp145.5 billion from the scheme between 2022 and 2026.

Forest Fires Recur Every Year, Kompolnas Urges Police to Investigate Main Actors

The National Police Commission (Kompolnas) has urged law enforcement to pursue not only field perpetrators but also the intellectual actors behind recurring forest and land fires in Indonesia. Police have named 72 suspects across nine regional police forces, with most cases involving deliberate burning for land clearing due to its lower cost.

Kawendra: 'Historical fault' analogy on government is ahistorical

Gerindra deputy secretary-general Kawendra Lukistian has dismissed the 'historical fault' analogy used by Projo chairman Budi Arie Setiadi regarding possible accelerated political dynamics before the 2029 election as ahistorical. Kawendra stressed that President Prabowo Subianto's government rests on the constitution and a legitimate popular mandate, and that Gerindra remains focused on supporting the administration. The party has said it has not discussed the 2029 election and will not be drawn into premature political speculation.

House leadership pushes for immediate disbursement of PT Pos employee salaries

House of Representatives leaders and Commission VI have urged the government and Danantara to ensure salary payments for 31,000 employees and 28,000 pensioners of PT Pos Indonesia are made promptly after recent delays. The company is facing financial difficulties, with outstanding invoices to Bulog and Peruri also pending. The issue was raised during an audience with employee representatives at the parliament complex.

Iranian TV Airs Death Threat Against Trump's Son Barron, Offering Rp177 Billion Reward

Iranian state broadcaster IRIB has aired a segment threatening Barron Trump, the 20-year-old son of US President Donald Trump, and offering a US$10 million reward for information on his whereabouts. The broadcast marks the first time Barron has been directly targeted, following previous threats against First Lady Melania Trump. The US Secret Service has confirmed it is investigating the video.

Prabowo accepts BNPB proposal on BPBD logistics warehouses for disaster preparedness

President Prabowo Subianto has accepted a proposal from the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) for every regional disaster management agency (BPBD) to maintain stocked logistics warehouses ready for use when disasters strike. The suggestion was made during a coordination meeting on earthquake response in Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara, where BNPB head Suharyanto noted that empty local warehouses had hampered initial relief efforts. Prabowo said the central government would help provinces and regencies establish their own warehouses and food reserves.

Police Confirm Viral Video of Buses Carrying Protesters to Jakarta Is a Hoax

The Indonesian National Police have confirmed that viral social media videos claiming to show buses transporting protesters to Jakarta for a demonstration on Thursday are hoaxes. Police say the footage is old and unrelated to any planned mass action, and that traffic on the Cikampek toll road remains normal.

Finance Minister Purbaya Targets DTSEN Improvements Next Year After Decile Misclassification

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has acknowledged public complaints about low-income households being incorrectly classified in higher deciles and pledged improvements to the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN). The government has allocated over Rp7 trillion to the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) for DTSEN and census work this year. The accuracy of decile data is critical as the government prepares to restrict subsidised Pertalite fuel for upper-class households in deciles 9 and 10.

President Prabowo Wants NTT Earthquake Victims Served Directly

President Prabowo Subianto visited Mbay, Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara, to inspect the aftermath of the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Flores on 15 August. He explained that his delayed visit was deliberate, intended to allow local agencies to focus on emergency response without the distraction of state protocol. The death toll has reached 103, with 1,666 injured, according to the National Disaster Management Agency.

Former Bezos AI Experts Unveil New Physics-Based Model

Two AI researchers previously slated to lead Jeff Bezos's Project Prometheus have launched a new company, Accelerated Understanding Inc., with a fundamentally different approach to artificial intelligence. Their model uses neural operators to predict physical phenomena rather than language, claiming to process 5 trillion data points in a single prompt. The company is targeting enterprise clients and has reportedly attracted enthusiasm from Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang.