Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 26 August 2026

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Prabowo Reveals Reason for Delayed Visit to NTT 11 Days After Earthquake

President Prabowo Subianto has explained his decision to visit East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) only 11 days after a magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck Flores, saying he deliberately stayed away to allow local authorities to focus on disaster response without ceremonial distractions. He assured that the central government had been monitoring the situation and providing assistance throughout the period.

South Kalimantan BPBD records 9,088.75 hectares affected by forest and land fires

The South Kalimantan Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has recorded 1,903 forest and land fire incidents affecting 9,088.75 hectares between 1 January and 25 August 2026. The agency is using the data to strengthen control measures, particularly in areas with high incident rates and hotspot distribution. Authorities are urging cross-sector coordination and public vigilance to prevent further spread.

Putin's 'Counter-NATO' Alliance Shaken as Armenia Moves to Leave

Armenia has signalled it will not reactivate its participation in the Russia-led Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), deepening a rift with Moscow over the bloc's failure to provide security guarantees during conflicts with Azerbaijan. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said Yerevan would welcome being expelled from the alliance, while the Kremlin responded that Armenia is free to leave if membership no longer serves its national interests. The move comes as Armenia expands ties with the West, including plans to apply for EU membership, while maintaining economic and energy links with Russia.

Oarfish Stranded on Pink Beach in East Lombok Turns Out to Be Edible

An oarfish found stranded on Pink Beach in East Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, is safe for human consumption, according to local fisheries officials. Experts suggest the appearance of the deep-sea fish, often nicknamed the 'doomsday fish', is likely linked to climate change rather than any impending natural disaster. They caution, however, that the fish may pose health risks if it has been dead for an extended period due to bacterial contamination.

Habibur Rochman: I Never Ordered the Freezing of AMPB Coordinator Supriyono's Account

House of Representatives member Muhammad Habibur Rochman has denied allegations that he instructed a freeze on the bank account of Supriyono, coordinator of the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB). Speaking at a press conference at the DPR building, he stated he has no authority to order such actions against banks or law enforcement. He suggested the claims circulating on social media may stem from a case of mistaken identity, noting he represents an East Java electoral district rather than Pati.

Prabowo Visits Earthquake-Affected Residents in Nagekeo, NTT

President Prabowo Subianto visited Nagekeo Regency in East Nusa Tenggara to inspect emergency response efforts following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake. The death toll has risen to 103, with 1,666 people injured, and the government has set a two-week deadline to complete disaster management. The president also responded positively to a proposal to build logistics warehouses at regional disaster agencies to speed up aid distribution.

KPK corrects summons for Bengkulu public works chief and councillor

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has corrected its earlier statement about summoning Bengkulu City Public Works and Spatial Planning Agency head Noprisman and city councillor Vinna Ledy Anggraheni for questioning. The anti-graft body said their names appeared due to an error in the examination schedule. The investigation stems from a suspected bribery case linked to projects in Rejang Lebong Regency, with KPK having seized Rp4 billion in cash from Noprisman's home.

Residents Delighted as Tabebuya Flowers Bloom Around JIS: Truly Beautiful

Tabebuya trees around the Jakarta International Stadium (JIS) in North Jakarta have come into bloom, drawing residents who have turned the area into a popular photo spot. Visitors praised the cooler, greener atmosphere and expressed hope for more trees and child-friendly facilities in the vicinity.

Menteng Satpol PP nets 14 people with social welfare issues in 'Rebo Tertib' operation

The Menteng District Satpol PP in Central Jakarta detained 14 people with social welfare problems during a routine 'Rebo Tertib' operation. The individuals were found at several locations, including five who attempted to hide in a mosque toilet. They have been handed over to the Social Agency for identification and guidance.

Viral Listing of Menjangan Kecil Island for Rp500 Billion, Jepara Regent Denies: Hoax, Attention-Seeking

Jepara Regent Witiarso Utomo has dismissed as a hoax a viral online listing offering Menjangan Kecil Island in the Karimunjawa archipelago for USD 28 million, or around Rp500 billion. The regent said the Karimunjawa sub-district head had confirmed with the landowner that the sale information could not be verified. The listing, posted by The Find Luxury Real Estate, had circulated widely on social media and drawn nearly 900 comments.

GIK UGM Presents Diverse Exhibitions, from Technology to Disability History

Gadjah Mada University's Innovation and Creativity Arena (GIK UGM) is hosting a series of exhibitions from 21 August to 10 September 2026, showcasing works on technology, art, design, and the history of disability in Indonesia. The programme includes collaborations with Institut Français Indonesia and features exhibitions exploring perceptions of disability from the colonial era to the present day. The initiative aims to provide a space for artists, researchers, and the public to exchange ideas and gain new perspectives.

Bapanas: Rice aid for NTT earthquake victims reaches Rp139 billion

Indonesia's National Food Agency (Bapanas) has allocated approximately Rp139 billion worth of rice aid for earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), totalling 9,980 tonnes across seven affected districts. The assistance combines disaster relief rice and regular food aid programmes, with distribution handled by state logistics firm Perum Bulog. The government has also updated regulations to increase the disaster rice allocation from 250 grams to 5 kilograms per person for the 14-day emergency response period.

Steel Entrepreneurs Warn of Threat from China Potentially Blocking Indonesia

Indonesia's steel industry is facing rising import pressure as weak global demand pushes Chinese producers to seek new markets. IISIA executive director Harry Warganegara warns that China's excess capacity could lead to increased steel shipments to Indonesia, while domestic exports have declined.

Jeju Missing Persons Scandal: 4 Senior Police Officers Removed

A scandal has erupted on Jeju Island after a police officer was found to have prematurely closed missing persons cases without proper investigation, falsely claiming victims were safe when they had in fact died. South Korea's National Police Agency has removed at least four senior officers from Jeju Seobu Police Station and launched an internal audit. The officer at the centre of the case faces criminal charges including dereliction of duty, forgery, and obstruction of official duties.

27 August Demonstration at DPR: These Are AMPB's Two Main Demands

The Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB) is set to hold a peaceful demonstration outside the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) on 27 August, focusing on two anti-corruption demands. The group is calling for the swift passage of the Asset Forfeiture Bill and the imposition of the death penalty for corruption convicts. Organisers have dismissed suggestions of any political agenda, insisting their movement is solely aimed at strengthening corruption eradication.

Canada-US Relations Heat Up Before Ottawa Finally Retaliates with Tariffs

Canada has announced retaliatory tariffs of 15% to 50% on various American products, effective 8 September 2026, following escalating trade tensions with the United States. Prime Minister Mark Carney suspended trade talks with Washington and recalled Canadian negotiators, describing US tariff measures as a miscalculation. President Donald Trump had earlier accused Canada of taking advantage of the US and criticised its agricultural tariffs.

Barantin proposes large quarantine installation to strengthen Palu as trade hub

Indonesia's Quarantine Agency (Barantin) has proposed building a large-scale quarantine installation near Pantoloan Port to reinforce Palu's position as a trading hub for Central Sulawesi commodities. The proposal forms part of a memorandum of understanding signed with the Palu city government. The facility would handle animal, fish and plant commodities, potentially boosting regional revenue and export capacity.

Asing Ramai Keluar dari Sederet Saham Ini

Foreign investors recorded a net sell of Rp 350.7 billion across all markets on Monday, with BBRI, BUMI, and TPIA among the top stocks sold. The Jakarta Composite Index fell 0.37% to 6,501.6 amid the foreign outflows, while total market turnover reached Rp 14.2 trillion.

Not to Make Rain, BMKG Explains Reasons for Weather Modification in IKN

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has clarified that the ongoing weather modification operation in the Nusantara Capital City (IKN) area is not intended to create rain, but to optimise existing cloud potential. The operation aims to address water deficits in Sepaku Reservoir and mitigate forest and land fires in East Kalimantan. The region is experiencing a severe dry season exacerbated by a very strong El Niño and positive Indian Ocean Dipole, with over 13,000 hotspots recorded in August 2026.

LKPP strengthens integrity to prevent corruption in procurement sector

Indonesia's Public Procurement Agency (LKPP) is launching an anti-corruption training programme to tackle graft in government procurement of goods and services. The initiative targets procurement professionals, budget holders, and the wider procurement ecosystem, including suppliers and community groups. The move comes as procurement ranks as the second most common corruption category in Indonesia, with 426 cases recorded by the KPK since 2004.

Economy Grows 5.29 Percent, UMY Expert Highlights Gap Between Large Investment and People's Economy

Indonesia's economy grew 5.29 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026, but a Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta University expert warns that large-scale investment has yet to connect with the real economy, particularly MSMEs. Sobar M. Johari argues that the government must build a 'bridge' between macro-level investment and micro-level businesses to ensure growth translates into quality jobs and broader welfare.

Reason Prabowo Did Not Immediately Visit NTT After M 7.7 Earthquake: Wanted to Give Agencies Opportunity to Serve the People

President Prabowo Subianto explained that he deliberately delayed his visit to Nusa Tenggara Timur following the M 7.7 earthquake to allow government agencies to serve affected residents directly. He argued that an early influx of central government officials could have diverted focus from the emergency response. Prabowo made the remarks while chairing a coordination meeting in Nagekeo Regency on 26 August 2026.

Three suspects in GMS Bantul worship dispersal case not yet detained, here's why

The Yogyakarta Regional Police have not detained three suspects in the case of the forced dispersal of a worship service at the Gereja Misi Sejahtera (GMS) in Bantul, citing their cooperative behaviour during questioning. The suspects, identified by the initials D, BS, and AH, face charges under Indonesia's new Criminal Code relating to offences against religious life and places of worship. Police say the investigation is ongoing and have asked the public to monitor the case through to trial.

Riau senator appreciates additional support for forest fire handling

Senator Muhammad Mursyid from Riau has welcomed the central government's increased support for tackling forest and land fires in the province. President Prabowo Subianto's direct visit and orders for additional water-bombing helicopters and oxygen units demonstrate strong federal commitment. The senator stressed the importance of prevention, early detection, and rapid response to protect public health and the local economy.

Trump Insists Saudi Arabia Must Normalise Relations with Israel for Nuclear Deal

President Donald Trump has sent a draft civil nuclear cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia to the US Congress, making clear it will only take effect if the kingdom normalises relations with Israel. The 30-year deal would allow American firms to export civilian nuclear technology, including AP1000 reactors, to Saudi Arabia. The agreement has drawn criticism from some Democratic lawmakers and non-proliferation advocates over the absence of a ban on uranium enrichment or reprocessing.

Bank Indonesia Governor Candidate Stresses Inflation Is Not Solely BI's Responsibility

Destry Damayanti, candidate for Bank Indonesia Governor, has emphasised that controlling inflation cannot be handled by the central bank alone. During her fit and proper test before the Indonesian parliament, she explained that while core inflation is the main domain of monetary policy, food prices and administered prices require government involvement. She noted that core inflation contributes around 65% to overall inflation, with food inflation accounting for about 19%.

Canada Retaliates Against US Tariffs: List of Products and Latest Import Duty Rates

Canada has announced retaliatory tariffs ranging from 15% to 50% on US goods, effective 8 September, in response to Washington's trade measures. The move targets approximately 7.3% of Canadian imports from the US, with Ottawa also preparing a US$5.4 billion economic support package for affected businesses and workers. Tensions have extended beyond trade to cultural issues, including concerns over the status of the French language in Quebec.

Becak Driver in Kulon Progo Classified as Decile 9, Confused About Child's University Fees

A becak driver in Kulon Progo was surprised to find himself classified in decile 9 when seeking a poverty certificate to apply for tuition relief for his son at Yogyakarta State University. The local statistics agency has stated that decile changes remain possible pending verification of his actual economic conditions.

Sole BI Governor Candidate Destry Damayanti Undergoes Fit and Proper Test at DPR

Destry Damayanti, the sole candidate for Governor of Bank Indonesia, presented her vision and mission during a fit and proper test before Commission XI of the DPR. She outlined a theme of 'Red and White Synergy for the Welfare of the Indonesian People', centred on maintaining stability and fostering sustainable economic growth. Her three missions focus on stability as a foundation, integrated sustainable growth, and strengthening coordination with the government and other authorities to achieve the Indonesia 2045 vision.

BKPM says CCS accelerates decarbonisation and strengthens investment appeal

Indonesia's Investment Ministry (BKPM) has highlighted Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) as a strategic tool for driving industrial decarbonisation while enhancing the country's investment attractiveness. The technology is seen as vital for hard-to-abate sectors such as oil and gas, cement, fertiliser, petrochemicals, refineries and power generation. CCS can capture over 90 per cent of carbon emissions and help industries prepare for future carbon pricing or taxes.

Prolonged Dry Season Spreads, 11 Regions in Southeast Sulawesi Declare Drought Emergency Status

Eleven regencies and municipalities in Southeast Sulawesi have declared a drought emergency as the prolonged dry season escalates across the province. The status enables faster cross-sector coordination, distribution of clean water, and access to unexpected expenditure funds. Affected rice fields have expanded to over 3,000 hectares, with mitigation focused on preventing crop failure in key areas.

With 'Jangka' Theme, Jogja Book Fair 2026 Targets 1,500 Visitors per Day

Jogja Book Fair 2026 will be held from 29 August to 8 September at Grhatama Pustaka in Yogyakarta, featuring 119 national publishers and 85 programmes. Organised by IKAPI DIY and the DIY Library and Archives Service, the event adopts the theme 'jangka' and incorporates an archives exhibition to preserve collective memory. Organisers are targeting 1,500 visitors per day, citing growing public interest in literacy events.

BNPB Chief Reveals Many NTT Residents Displaced Due to Fear of Aftershocks

The head of Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), Suharyanto, has reported that many residents in East Nusa Tenggara remain in temporary shelters primarily due to fear of aftershocks rather than direct damage from the initial earthquake. He noted that misinformation on social media about a larger quake and tsunami has compounded public anxiety, prompting coordinated efforts to reassure communities.

Jakarta Provincial Government Postpones Inauguration of Kelapa Gading–Manggarai LRT

The Jakarta Provincial Government has officially postponed the inauguration of the Kelapa Gading–Manggarai LRT route, originally scheduled for Wednesday, 26 August. The decision was made to allow for the refinement of supporting facilities following a final evaluation. The 12.2-kilometre corridor, which includes 11 stations, remains a crucial component of Jakarta's public transport integration.

Production at Two of Indonesia's Giant Oil Blocks Declines Sharply, What's Happening?

Indonesia's two largest oil and gas working areas, the Rokan Block and the Cepu Block, have experienced significant natural production declines in 2026. The Director General of Oil and Gas at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources reported that Cepu output reached only 83.7% of its state budget target by July, while Rokan reached 81.5% due to ongoing electrical system problems. The government is working with operators to stabilise output and repair infrastructure.

NDP Batam develops digital talent through Garuda Spark launch

Nongsa Digital Park in Batam has launched the Garuda Spark Innovation Hub to strengthen local digital talent development and collaboration in technology and the digital economy. The initiative is part of a national rollout by the Ministry of Communication and Digital across 10 cities. NDP reports that 49 percent of its workforce at Kinema Studios is local, and its training programmes have produced over 10,000 graduates since 2019.

Djarum Entity Reveals Reason for Holding 10.86% Stake in Bakrie Telecom

PT Profesional Telekomunikasi Indonesia (Protelindo), a Djarum Group affiliate, has clarified that its 10.86% stake in PT Bakrie Telecom Tbk (BTEL) stems from the conversion of mandatory convertible bonds under a 2014 debt settlement agreement. The company stated the holding is not material to its business or financial condition. The stake, acquired on 20 August 2026, is valued at approximately Rp969.36 billion.

Budi Arie Apologises for 'My Instinct Is Faster Than 2029' Controversy

Budi Arie Setiadi, chairman of the Projo volunteer group, has apologised after a video of him suggesting a possible acceleration of the political timeline before the 2029 general election went viral. He clarified that his remarks were personal and had no connection to former President Joko Widodo, who was seated beside him during the meeting. The controversy has drawn responses from political figures, including PSI's Bestari Barus, who insisted Jokowi had no prior knowledge or approval of the statement.

Gusti Moeng Speaks Out After Being Reported to Police by PB XIV Purbaya Faction Over Gamelan

Gusti Moeng, chair of the Surakarta Palace Traditional Council, has responded to a police report filed against her by the Paku Buwono XIV Purbaya faction over the alleged theft of three sets of Sekaten gamelan. She denies the accusation, stating the instruments were merely relocated due to severe structural damage to their storage building and an impending revitalisation project. Moeng said she is unconcerned by the report and will let the legal process run its course.

Anton Sukartono Elected Chairman of West Java Democratic Party, KDM Expresses Hopes

Anton Sukartono has been unanimously elected as Chairman of the West Java Democratic Party (DPD Demokrat Jabar) during a regional conference in Bandung. The election was accelerated due to the previous conference being held late, with Sukartono being the sole verified candidate supported by all 27 district branches and one wing organisation. Party Secretary General Herman Khaeron urged cadres to emulate Governor KDM's closeness to the people to restore the party's electoral strength in the province.

President Prabowo visits victims of Flores earthquake in Nagekeo, NTT

President Prabowo Subianto visited Nagekeo Regency in East Nusa Tenggara to inspect the response to the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck the Flores region. The death toll has risen to 103, with more than 1,600 people injured. The President held a coordination meeting with ministers and local officials to ensure government support for affected communities.

Munil Dies After Drinking Party, Was Beaten by 5 People, 2 Still at Large

Police in Bantul, Yogyakarta, have revealed that Triyanto, also known as Munil, was beaten to death by five assailants following a drinking session. Three suspects have been arrested, while two others remain at large. Authorities stated the attack was not premeditated but was triggered by momentary emotion while under the influence of alcohol.

Garuda Spark Innovation Hub launched to develop regional innovation

Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs has launched the Garuda Spark Innovation Hub, connecting ten cities to give regional talent and startups access to wider technology, investor, industry and market ecosystems. The initiative aims to accelerate national digital transformation and support the government's target of 8 percent economic growth. The hub-and-spoke network is expected to expand to 500 points, serving as a two-way global gateway for Indonesian innovation and international investment.

Bank Jateng supports financing ecosystem for SMK Go Global programme

Bank Jateng is backing the SMK Go Global programme by providing integrated banking services and financing for prospective Indonesian migrant workers. The bank will support participants from account opening and remittance education through to placement financing, while maintaining prudent lending principles. The programme aims to prepare 500,000 competent workers for global markets, with 6,800 participants targeted in Central Java.

Polda Metro Responds to South Jakarta District Court Ruling Rejecting Roy Suryo's Fourth Pretrial Motion

Polda Metro Jaya has stated it respects the South Jakarta District Court's decision to reject Roy Suryo's fourth pretrial motion in its entirety. The court ruled that the pretrial motion was no longer relevant after the main case was transferred to court. Roy Suryo has reportedly filed a fifth pretrial motion, which police say they will study once they receive an official summons.

Residents' support becomes provision for masses from Pati to Jakarta

The Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB) says public donations and logistical support have enabled its members to travel to Jakarta for a demonstration outside the House of Representatives (DPR) building on Thursday, 27 August. The group is calling for the death penalty for corruptors and the immediate passage of the Asset Forfeiture Bill. AMPB insists the action is a purely grassroots expression of public concern about corruption eradication.

Prabowo Arrives in NTT, Immediately Holds Coordination Meeting with BNPB

President Prabowo Subianto has arrived in Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, to directly inspect conditions following a devastating earthquake. He immediately convened a coordination meeting at the disaster management post with senior ministers and security officials. The visit aims to ensure effective central and regional coordination in handling the disaster, which has claimed 103 lives and triggered thousands of aftershocks.

Medan Immigration Office introduces 'Si Pintar' to ease complaint services

The Medan Immigration Office has launched an integrated digital complaint and information system called Si Pintar, accessible via a single QR code scan. The platform allows users to submit complaints, ask questions, provide suggestions, track case status, and rate services, and is available in nine languages to serve foreign nationals passing through Kualanamu International Airport. The system was developed entirely in-house without third-party services or additional budget.

Jepara Regent Denies Karimunjawa Island Sold for Rp 500 Billion: Hoax!

The Regent of Jepara has dismissed as a hoax viral social media claims that Menjangan Kecil Island in Karimunjawa was sold for Rp 500 billion. An investigation found that 44.5 hectares of land on the island are legally owned by 11 individuals holding freehold certificates, none of whom have indicated any intention to sell. The sub-district head has also confirmed with landowners that the sale information is unsubstantiated.

Teenager Arrested for Burgling Homes After NTT Earthquake, Faces 7 Years in Prison

Police in West Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, have arrested a 17-year-old student suspected of burgling homes abandoned by residents following the Labuan Bajo earthquake. The suspect allegedly targeted empty houses in the Sernaru area between July and August 2026, using a screwdriver to force open walls and windows. He faces up to seven years in prison under the Criminal Code, though investigators will apply special provisions under the Juvenile Criminal Justice System Act.