Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 26 August 2026

Showing 1,151-1,200 of 1,599 articles

CCS Indonesia Masuk Babak Implementasi, Kolaborasi dan Investasi Jadi Kunci

Indonesia's carbon capture and storage (CCS) development is shifting from policy strengthening to project implementation, with collaboration and investment identified as key drivers. The 4th International & Indonesia CCS Forum highlighted progress in regulation, international cooperation, and growing investment interest, alongside new partnerships with Korean and Japanese entities. Stakeholders emphasised CCS's strategic role in enhancing energy security, industrial competitiveness, and achieving net-zero emissions targets.

Jumhur Opens Door to Accepting Assistance from Neighbouring Countries in Tackling Forest and Land Fires

Environment Minister Mohammad Jumhur Hidayat has signalled Indonesia's openness to strengthening regional cooperation, including accepting assistance from neighbouring countries, in tackling forest and land fires. Existing commitments under frameworks such as the Sub-Regional Haze Agreement remain at an early stage, with technical arrangements and direct mitigation cooperation yet to be fully developed. The government is also examining foreign companies, including Malaysian and Singaporean firms operating plantations in Indonesia, for possible links to land fires.

Not Just Paying Rp5,000: 15 Groups Can Ride the Manggarai LRT for Free

The Jakarta provincial government has introduced free travel on the new Kelapa Gading-Manggarai LRT route for 15 designated groups, including civil servants, students, and people with disabilities. The general public will pay a promotional fare of Rp5,000 until October 2026, after which a permanent tariff will be determined.

Australian man arrested for indecent act in front of Balinese resident's home after meeting woman at beach club

An Australian tourist has been arrested in Bali after being caught engaging in an indecent act with a foreign woman in the front yard of a resident's home in North Kuta. The man, identified as BA, was apprehended at Ngurah Rai International Airport as he attempted to fly back to Australia. Police are working with immigration authorities and are still searching for the female suspect.

ABII assesses Indonesia has opportunity to become global biochar supplier

The Indonesian International Biochar Association (ABII) believes Indonesia can build an integrated biochar industry, leveraging abundant biomass feedstock and rising international demand. The association has partnered with IDSurvey to develop national standards, laboratories, and certification schemes. This initiative aims to position Indonesia as a key biochar and carbon removal hub in the Asia Pacific region.

Australian National Arrested for Indecent Act in Bali Resident's Yard

An Australian man has been arrested at Bali's Ngurah Rai Airport after a video of him engaging in an indecent act with an unidentified foreign woman in a residential area went viral. Police intercepted the 27-year-old before he could board a flight back to Australia. Authorities have stressed that Bali will not tolerate violations of public decency and have urged all visitors to respect local norms and laws.

Law Minister opens opportunity for National Paskibraka members to join Ministry of Law

Minister of Law Supratman Andi Agtas has invited members of the 2026 National Paskibraka to apply for the Ministry of Law's official polytechnic programme. He emphasised that the ministry needs young people with integrity, national insight and patriotism, not just academic excellence. The invitation was made during a dinner event marking the 81st Anniversary of Hari Pengayoman.

After a Decade of Waiting, SDN Bangkuyung 2 Pupils Study Amid Damaged Buildings

Pupils at SDN Bangkuyung 2 in Pandeglang, Banten, have been forced to study in a temporary library after six classrooms and the school library collapsed or became unusable over the past ten years. The school has had to merge classes to cope with the limited space, and enrolment has fallen to around 40 pupils as parents worry about their children's safety.

Guide to Updating DTSEN Decile and How to Check It at dtsen-form.bps.go.id

Following the launch of a dedicated channel for checking the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) decile by Statistics Indonesia (BPS), complaints about decile increases have surfaced on social media. Citizens who believe their decile is inaccurate can request a data update through the Cek Bansos app, their local village or sub-district office, or the BPS DTSEN channel. The decile classification determines eligibility for social assistance, with deciles 1-4 generally prioritised for programmes such as PKH and Sembako.

Ajaib Highlights Importance of Investment Risk Management for JHT and JP Beneficiaries

Digital investment platform Ajaib has reinforced its commitment to financial literacy by participating in BPJS Ketenagakerjaan's PEKA programme, launched by Manpower Minister Yassierli in Bandung. The initiative aims to guide 1,426 beneficiaries across Indonesia in managing their JHT and JP payouts prudently. Ajaib's financial planners emphasised long-term investor mindsets and risk profile adjustments to ensure retirement funds are not depleted by short-term consumption.

As Forest Fires Worsen, Health Ministry Prepares Online School Option

Indonesia's Health Ministry is preparing a circular to allow online learning for schoolchildren when air quality from forest and land fires reaches unhealthy levels. The policy aims to protect vulnerable groups, including children and the elderly, from hazardous smoke pollution. Seven provinces have been classified as very high risk, with around 3.4 million residents affected.

Kotim DPRD urges law enforcers to be transparent in handling corporations involved in forest fires

The East Kotawaringin Regional House of Representatives has called on law enforcement agencies to be serious and transparent in investigating alleged corporate involvement in forest and land fires. Council Speaker Rimbun stressed that open legal processes are essential to maintain public trust and ensure violators face appropriate sanctions. He also expressed appreciation for ongoing fire prevention and enforcement efforts amid heightened dry-season risks.

Gorontalo Pursues Rp5.88 Trillion Investment Target

Gorontalo's investment realisation reached only Rp1.84 trillion by the second quarter of 2026, far below the Rp5.88 trillion target set by the Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming. The provincial government is promoting partnership schemes between large companies and local MSMEs to ensure investment benefits the local economy. Five companies signed partnership agreements worth Rp56.7 billion at a recent forum.

President Prabowo Scheduled to Visit Three Areas Affected by Flores Earthquake

President Prabowo Subianto is set to visit three districts in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, on Wednesday to assess the aftermath of the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck on 15 August 2026. The visit aims to review conditions in evacuation centres, damage assessments, and the distribution of aid. Latest data records 185,131 displaced persons and 77,912 damaged homes across seven regencies.

Live Now! Danantara COO Reveals Progress of SOE Transformation

Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund Danantara is pressing ahead with consolidation of state-owned enterprises to boost efficiency and global competitiveness. Early results show significant performance improvements at companies including Pupuk Indonesia, Pegadaian, Timah and Semen Indonesia. CNBC Indonesia is hosting an exclusive dialogue with Danantara COO Dony Oskaria to discuss the transformation progress.

ISPA and Rabies Cases Surge Following NTT Earthquake

Acute respiratory infections (ISPA) have emerged as the most prevalent post-earthquake health issue in East Nusa Tenggara, with 9,668 cases recorded across seven affected districts. The Health Ministry also reported 35 rabies bite cases in Nagekeo, all of which have been vaccinated. The death toll has reached 105, with over 185,000 people displaced across 444 evacuation points.

Arriving in Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara, Prabowo Leads Post-Earthquake Response Meeting in a Tent

President Prabowo Subianto has arrived in Nagekeo, East Nusa Tenggara, to personally oversee the emergency response following the 7.7 magnitude earthquake. He is chairing a coordination meeting at a military battalion post, attended by senior ministers, the military and police leadership, and the provincial governor. The visit aims to ensure rapid, targeted and equitable distribution of aid and to strengthen health services for affected communities.

Indomaret and Alfamart Staff Could Become Obsolete as Chinese Robot Shop Expands

A fully automated convenience store powered by a humanoid robot has opened in Hong Kong, raising concerns about the future of retail workers in Indonesia. Developed by Beijing-based Galbot, the Ro-bodega store operates without human staff and is part of a wider push to deploy similar robotic shops across Asia. The trend signals a potential disruption for employees at Indonesian minimarket chains such as Indomaret and Alfamart.

Antam, Galeri24, and UBS Gold Prices Fall on Wednesday

The price of gold bullion produced by state miner Antam fell by Rp 18,000 to Rp 2,750,000 per gram on Wednesday morning, with the buyback price also declining to Rp 2,610,000 per gram. The article notes that buyback transactions above Rp 10 million are subject to a 1.5 percent income tax, while purchases of Antam gold carry a 0.25 percent tax. A full price list for gold bars ranging from 0.5 grams to 1,000 grams is provided.

Destry wants BI to remain relevant in responding to challenges during DPR test

Destry Damayanti, the sole candidate for Bank Indonesia governor, has outlined a vision centred on keeping the central bank relevant and credible in maintaining stability and supporting sustainable economic growth. She presented three missions and five strategic initiatives during her fit and proper test before House Commission XI, including strengthening BI's policy mix, foreign exchange flow policies, inclusive finance, institutional governance, and the 'Sinergi Merah Putih' collaboration framework.

Can New US Sanctions Cripple Iran's Shadow Economic Network?

The United States has announced a new phase of sanctions targeting five key pillars of Iran's economy, including digital assets, gold, aviation, and shipping. The measures aim to disrupt the international networks Iran uses to circumvent existing restrictions, though analysts question whether they will force a strategic shift in Tehran. The sanctions come as Iran faces soaring inflation, a collapsing currency, and a sharp decline in oil exports.

Prabowo's Brother Wants to Turn CO2 into a High-Value Asset

Hashim Djojohadikusumo, Indonesia's Special Envoy for Climate and Energy, has outlined plans to transform carbon dioxide from an industrial liability into an economic asset. Speaking at the International Indonesia CCS Forum 2026, he highlighted the potential of microalgae cultivation and carbon capture technology to produce biofuel, animal feed, and other valuable by-products. The approach aims to support Indonesia's 8% economic growth target while pursuing net zero emissions by 2060.

Health Ministry prepares distance learning recommendation as air quality worsens due to forest fires

Indonesia's Health Ministry is preparing a circular recommending distance learning and reduced outdoor activities as air quality deteriorates from forest and land fires. The ministry has coordinated with the education and religious affairs ministries to protect vulnerable groups. Air quality monitoring shows hazardous levels in Muaro Jambi and Palangkaraya, with PM2.5 concentrations posing widespread health risks.

DPR Raises Former BI Governor's Rp16,500/US$ Exchange Rate Target, Here's What Destry Says

During a fit and proper test, Bank Indonesia governor candidate Destry Damayanti was pressed by House Commission XI deputy Dolfie Othniel Frederic on whether she still agrees with the central bank's previous assessment that the rupiah's fundamental value is Rp16,500 per US dollar. Destry said the rupiah could reach that level if economic conditions are favourable, citing BI's growth range of 4.9% to 5.7%. Dolfie challenged her to return the exchange rate from the current Rp17,700 to the Rp16,500 level if confirmed as governor.

Habibur Rochman dismisses accusations of involvement in Pati activist's account suspension

DPR member Muhammad Habibur Rochman has denied allegations that he instructed the suspension of a bank account belonging to a Pati activist, stating he lacks the authority to do so. The account of Supriyono, coordinator of the Pati United Community Alliance, was reportedly suspended while he accompanied residents to convey aspirations in Jakarta. Police clarified that the action was a temporary transaction suspension under anti-money laundering legislation, not a permanent account freeze.

Free Health Screening Helps Indonesians Save up to Rp3 Million

Indonesia's Free Health Screening programme (CKG) has reached 73.8 million participants between January and July 2026, with the government estimating each screening would cost Rp2โ€“3 million if paid privately. The programme has identified significant rates of hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and childhood dental caries, prompting follow-up treatment and referrals. The Health Ministry aims to reach 130 million people by the end of 2026.

Prabowo Visits NTT, Leads Meeting on Earthquake Impact Response

President Prabowo Subianto visited earthquake-affected areas in East Nusa Tenggara to oversee the government's emergency response and coordination efforts. The visit comes eleven days after a magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck Flores, with the government reporting significant distribution of aid and deployment of field hospitals. Prabowo chaired a disaster response meeting attended by senior ministers and military and police leadership.

11 Days After Flores Earthquake, Prabowo Arrives in NTT Today

President Prabowo Subianto visited earthquake-affected areas in East Nusa Tenggara on Wednesday, 11 days after a magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck Flores. The visit aimed to ensure coordination between central and regional governments, the military, and police in handling the disaster's impact. The government has distributed substantial aid and deployed medical facilities, with plans for long-term recovery and reconstruction.

Check Ministry of Social Affairs Decile to Know Whether You Can Receive Social Assistance or Not, Here's How to Dispute Incorrect Data

The Ministry of Social Affairs has provided an online service for citizens to check their social assistance status and their decile classification in the National Single Social and Economic Data (DTSEN). Citizens who believe their recorded economic condition does not match reality can submit a dispute or request a data update. The article also clarifies that being registered as a recipient does not automatically mean funds are ready for disbursement.

Flying with Garuda from September: Baggage No Longer Counted per Kg, Here's What to Note

Garuda Indonesia will implement a piece-concept baggage system for tickets purchased or issued from 1 September 2026, shifting from total weight to the number of bags allowed. The airline says the change is intended to give passengers clearer information when planning their journey. Passengers are advised to check how many pieces and the maximum weight per piece their ticket permits.

National Police Criminal Investigation Chief Apologises to DPR for Absence from Agrarian Conflict Meeting

The head of Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has apologised to the House of Representatives' Commission III for missing a previous meeting on agrarian conflicts. He said the postponement was requested to ensure the police could present concrete solutions rather than merely administrative reports. Bareskrim recorded 147 alleged criminalisation cases across 12 provinces, with the plantation sector accounting for the majority.

Marvel Film Actors Call for Release of Palestinian Politician Marwan Barghouti

More than 20 actors known for their roles in Marvel films have joined an international campaign demanding the release of Palestinian politician Marwan Barghouti from Israeli detention. The 'Free Marwan Now' campaign, backed by over 200 figures from film, music and literature, has urged the United Nations and governments worldwide to secure his freedom. Barghouti, a former Fatah secretary-general, has been held in solitary confinement since 2023 and faces restrictions on his legal rights.

Sidoarjo Regency Government Scholarships Ease Education Costs for Thousands of Students

The Sidoarjo Regency Government has distributed scholarships to 4,000 students and university students in 2026 as part of its human resource development programme. The initiative, led by Regent Subandi and Deputy Regent Mimik Idayana, aims to reduce dropout rates and improve access to education. The regency has set a target of 20,000 scholarships during the current leadership period.

Thousands of civil servants deployed to clear debris from Sade Traditional House fire

The Central Lombok regency government has mobilised thousands of civil servants, military and police personnel to clear debris following the fire that destroyed the iconic Sade Traditional Village. The effort is part of a coordinated recovery programme for the 320 affected residents. Local authorities have deployed waste trucks and water tankers to support the clean-up operation.

Revaldo rehabilitation: police await assessment results

West Jakarta Police are awaiting an assessment team's decision on whether to send actor Revaldo Fifaldi to rehabilitation after his latest drug arrest. Police noted this is his fourth alleged offence, and he faces multiple charges under the Criminal Code, the Psychotropics Law, and a Health Ministry regulation. Revaldo was arrested in South Tangerang after police found drug paraphernalia and evidence of a methamphetamine purchase.

KAPMI: Young entrepreneurs must leverage IEU-CEPA to become exporters

The Indonesian Young Entrepreneurs Chamber (KAPMI) has urged young business owners to capitalise on the Indonesia-EU Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU-CEPA) to become exporters rather than mere resellers. KAPMI highlights opportunities in digital services, creative industries, green products, and joint ventures with European partners. The government targets signing the agreement by October 2026, with implementation expected in early 2027.

BI Governor Candidate Vows to Continue QRIS Expansion, Reveals Fate of Cash

Destry Damayanti, candidate for Bank Indonesia governor, has pledged to continue the digitalisation of the payment system, including the expansion of QRIS, if appointed. She highlighted strong growth in QRIS transactions and emphasised that consumer protection and cyber risk mitigation would remain priorities. Damayanti also assured that Bank Indonesia would continue to ensure the availability of quality rupiah cash across the country, including remote regions.

Lincoln and Cadillac entry-level models remain quite expensive

American premium brands Lincoln and Cadillac are pricing their entry-level models increasingly beyond the reach of average consumers, with the Lincoln Corsair Hybrid 2027 starting at US$48,790 and the Cadillac XT5 at US$46,595. This shift away from affordable luxury creates a market gap that rivals such as Audi, BMW and Lexus may exploit. The trend suggests the concept of 'affordable luxury cars' in the United States is being redefined.

Bareskrim deploys supervision team for regional agrarian cases based on KPA data

The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has deployed a supervision team to 12 regional police forces to oversee the handling of agrarian disputes, following data from the Consortium for Agrarian Reform (KPA). The move aims to ensure law enforcement in land conflict cases complies with legislation and upholds public justice. Of 37 active cases, eight remain under investigation or inquiry, while others have been resolved or are progressing through restorative justice mechanisms.

Video: Securities Boss Assesses Prabowo's 2027 GDP and Rupiah Targets as Realistic

Sucor Sekuritas CEO Bernadus Widjaya has described the government's 2027 economic growth target of around 6% as conservative and realistic. He also considers the rupiah exchange rate assumption of Rp17,500 per US dollar achievable, citing potential foreign capital inflows from projects such as the Indonesian Financial Centre in Bali. The market is still monitoring flagship programmes like MBH and Kopdes Merah Putih for signs of improved fiscal efficiency.

Malaysian Professor Dismissed After Claiming Ancient Malays Could Fly

A professor at the International Islamic University Malaysia has been dismissed following a series of controversial claims about ancient Malay civilisation, including that ancient Malays could fly and taught 'flying kung fu' to the Chinese. The university confirmed Dr Solehah Yaacob was relieved of her academic duties in April and is no longer permitted to claim any affiliation with the institution. Her earlier claims, including that Romans learned shipbuilding from Malay sailors, had already drawn criticism from historians and prompted a rebuke from Malaysia's higher education minister.

Destry Reveals Foreign Exchange Policy Plans in DPR, Mentions Underinvoicing

Bank Indonesia governor candidate Destry Damayanti has outlined plans to refocus and revitalise foreign exchange traffic policies, with a particular emphasis on strengthening supervision. She highlighted significant challenges including fragmented data sources, data quality issues, and the potential for underinvoicing and transfer pricing. Destry stressed that addressing these issues requires coordination across ministries, agencies, exporters, and the banking sector.

Destry Outlines Three Missions as Foundation for Bank Indonesia Policy

Bank Indonesia governor candidate Destry Damayanti has presented three core missions to underpin her leadership at the central bank: maintaining stability, supporting sustainable economic growth, and strengthening collaboration through the 'Sinergi Merah Putih'. Speaking before House Commission XI, she emphasised that stability and growth are integrated and that BI's success depends on building synergy with stakeholders. She also outlined five strategic initiatives, including accelerating digital payments through QRIS while ensuring cash availability in remote regions.

Three Men in Ngada Arrested for Stealing Buffalo Belonging to Earthquake Refugees

Police in Ngada, East Nusa Tenggara, have arrested three men for stealing a buffalo from a family displaced by the recent magnitude 7.7 earthquake. The suspects allegedly exploited the victim's absence while he was sheltering with his family. They have been charged under Indonesia's new Criminal Code.

BPBD Lumajang urges residents to remain vigilant for new hotspots after Ranupani forest fire

The Lumajang Disaster Mitigation Agency has called on residents and visitors to stay alert for potential new hotspots following a forest and land fire in the Bukit Sentong area of Ranupani village. Although the blaze was brought under control by a joint team, cooling operations continue to prevent any remaining embers from reigniting. The affected area lies within the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park and is estimated at under one hectare.

Polda Metro Responds to Judge's Decision Rejecting Roy Suryo's Pretrial Motion

Polda Metro Jaya has stated it respects the South Jakarta District Court's decision to reject Roy Suryo's pretrial motion challenging a travel ban. The police said they are prepared to face a fifth pretrial lawsuit filed by Roy Suryo. The judge ruled the pretrial motion was irrelevant because the main case had already been transferred to court.

Cheap Culled Hens Available at Yogyakarta DPKP Office Courtyard, Here's the Schedule

The Yogyakarta Special Region's Department of Agriculture and Food Security (DPKP DIY) is holding a farmers' market to support local laying hen farmers. Residents can purchase live culled hens or ready-to-cook packages at affordable prices. The initiative aims to help sustain the businesses of local egg-producing poultry farmers.

Xiaomi Xring D100 emerges as the brain of future vehicles

Xiaomi has unveiled the Xring D100, a 3-nanometre AI chip for intelligent driving systems, marking China's first such chip at that fabrication node. The move signals the company's push to reduce reliance on external chip suppliers and shift automotive competition towards in-vehicle computing power. Commercial deployment is targeted for 2027.

Transaction Delays and Trust in the Financial System: An Expert's Explanation

A money laundering expert has clarified that banks' authority to delay transactions for up to five working days is a limited, legally grounded preventive measure under Indonesia's anti-money laundering law. The explanation comes amid public attention on a Bank Mandiri account linked to a community alliance's fundraising, which police said was subject to a temporary delay rather than a freeze. The expert stressed that such delays do not imply wrongdoing by the account holder, as determining criminal elements remains the prerogative of law enforcement.

Jakarta Provincial Government Ensures Financial Education Reaches Grassroots

The Jakarta Provincial Government is expanding financial literacy programmes to reach families at the grassroots level, not just select urban groups. The initiative aims to strengthen household economic resilience and protect residents from illegal online loans and investments. Officials highlight the growing threat of illegal lending and online gambling to family welfare and child development.