Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 26 August 2026

Showing 1,251-1,300 of 1,599 articles

Can Iran Retaliate Against Countries Joining the US Economic War?

Iran has threatened retaliation against any country joining the United States' economic war against Tehran, warning that no oil would flow from the Gulf if neighbouring states cooperate with Washington. The warning comes as the US prepares new sanctions and seeks to cut off Iran's remaining funding sources, while Gulf states face a difficult position as both neighbours of Iran and allies of the US.

As BI Governor Candidate, Here Is How Destry Damayanti Plans to Safeguard the Rupiah

Destry Damayanti, candidate for Governor of Bank Indonesia, has outlined her strategy for maintaining rupiah exchange rate stability during a fit and proper test before House Commission XI. She intends to continue using the BI Rate in a pre-emptive and forward-looking manner while strengthening stabilisation through measured intervention and pro-market monetary operations. The approach aims to ensure effective policy transmission and adequate liquidity for the money market, banking sector and real economy.

Regent: Sade traditional house reconstruction to follow residents' agreement

The reconstruction of the fire-damaged Sade traditional village in Central Lombok will be carried out according to the community's agreement to preserve the cultural value of the tourist village. Local authorities are verifying the number of houses destroyed, estimated at around 75, with losses of approximately Rp34 billion. The provincial government says its immediate focus is on recovery for affected residents while discussions on the reconstruction design continue.

Rais Syuriyah Urges 35th NU Congress to Prioritise Unity

Rais Syuriah of the Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board, Prof KH Zainal Abidin, has called for the 35th NU Congress in Jombang to prioritise unity and contribute to national development. He emphasised that the congress should be conducted with joy, solemnity, and order, reflecting the organisation's tradition of deliberation. The congress is expected to produce decisions and leadership that strengthen NU's role as a moderate and constructive civil society force.

IM57+ Institute Assesses Unsoed Rector Sting Operation as Serious Case in Higher Education

The IM57+ Institute has described the Corruption Eradication Commission's (KPK) sting operation at Jenderal Soedirman University (Unsoed) as a strategic moment to reform higher education governance. The institute highlighted that corruption involving senior university officials in the student admissions process reflects fundamental problems in the sector. It urged the KPK to fully investigate the network involved and called on the Ministry of Higher Education to implement systemic reforms.

Destry Highlights Indonesia's Economic Strength, But Credit Remains a Challenge

Bank Indonesia governor candidate Destry Damayanti has highlighted Indonesia's strong economic fundamentals, including low inflation, fiscal discipline, and manageable government debt. However, she noted that credit growth, non-cash retail spending, MSME lending, and undisbursed loans remain below optimal levels. Destry stressed that maintaining stability alone is insufficient and that Bank Indonesia must strengthen its policy mix.

NU 35th Congress finalises voter list, 557 eligible voters verified

The organising committee of the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress has finalised its permanent voter list, confirming 557 eligible voters out of 590 registered representatives. The figure meets the quorum requirement for the congress, which opens on Thursday in Jombang, East Java. The committee has also introduced chip-based access cards as part of a digital governance system to prevent manipulation during the event.

Imported Iron and Steel Increasingly Flood Indonesia, Business Leader Cites WTO Rules

Indonesia's iron and steel industry is facing rising import pressure, with first-half 2026 import volumes up 13.65% year-on-year while exports declined. The Indonesian Iron & Steel Industry Association (IISIA) is urging stronger domestic market support and exploring import substitution programmes with the Ministry of Industry.

Jamkrindo Promotes Economic Independence for People with Disabilities

State-owned credit guarantee firm Jamkrindo has launched an empowerment programme for people with disabilities in Karawang, West Java, aimed at building skills and opening economic opportunities. The 'Harmoni Karya Inklusif' initiative includes batik and sewing training, business matching, and an exhibition to connect participants with potential markets. The company says the programme is designed to create a sustainable value chain so participants can continue producing and become economically independent.

Bali's 1-GWp solar power push to phase out diesel plants: Govt

Indonesia has launched a 100 GWp solar power programme, with Bali set to receive a 1 GWp capacity intended to eliminate all diesel generators on the island. The Gilimanuk project, featuring 300 MWp of solar capacity and a 1,000 MWh battery storage system, is expected to begin operations in 2028 and save 151,000 kilolitres of fuel annually. The initiative forms part of a broader national effort to replace fossil fuel power plants with renewable energy.

Bontang City Government Strengthens Digitalisation of Taxes and Levies to Curb Regional Revenue Leakage

The Bontang city administration is accelerating the digitalisation of local tax and levy collection to prevent leakage of locally generated revenue and improve public services. Mayor Neni Moerniaeni said all revenue transactions are now recorded directly into the regional treasury system, with digital systems applied to restaurant taxes, parking levies and land and building tax. The city is also running a tax reward programme and offering discounts or amnesty for arrears, while acknowledging that low public compliance, particularly for roadside parking levies and land and building tax, remains the main challenge.

Iranians Queue for Fuel After US Announces New Sanctions

Long queues formed at petrol stations across Tehran after Washington unveiled a fresh round of sanctions aimed at pressuring Iran economically. Residents expressed concern about the impact on daily life, with some warning that mounting economic strain could reignite anti-government protests. The US measures target Iran's digital assets, technology, gold, aviation, and shipping sectors, as well as entities in several other countries.

Kompolnas backs police to thoroughly investigate forest and land fire cases

The National Police Commission (Kompolnas) has expressed full support for the Indonesian National Police to pursue comprehensive legal action against forest and land fire perpetrators, including individuals and companies with the greatest responsibility. Kompolnas emphasised that enforcement must not stop at field-level actors but should target those who benefit from or order the burning. The police have so far named 72 suspects across nine provinces, with West Kalimantan recording the highest number of fire hotspots.

75 personnel extinguish house fire in Pondok Labu

A total of 75 firefighters from the South Jakarta Fire and Rescue Agency were deployed to tackle a house fire on Jalan Ambalun in Pondok Labu, Cilandak, on Wednesday morning. The blaze was reported at 08:03 WIB and crews arrived on scene by 08:15 WIB. The fire is currently in the cooling-down phase, with the cause and any casualties still under investigation.

Furore over AMPB Coordinator's Account Blocked by State-Owned Bank, Here is the Palace's Response

The Presidential Palace has responded to the blocking of the bank account of Supriyono alias Botok, coordinator of the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB), by a state-owned bank. Head of the Government Communication Body M. Qodari said police have their own reasons if the block was requested by Polda Metro Jaya. Police are tracing the flow of funds in the account as part of an investigation, with the transaction suspension set for five working days.

Judge Rejects Roy Suryo's Fourth Pretrial Motion

The South Jakarta District Court has dismissed a fourth pretrial motion filed by Roy Suryo against the Jakarta Metropolitan Police, this time challenging a travel ban imposed on him. The judge ruled the motion was irrelevant because Suryo's status had changed from suspect to defendant after his case was transferred to the East Jakarta District Court. The court also criticised Suryo for deliberately filing motions one by one after the main case had entered the court system.

Minister Pigai Reminds Budi Arie About Accelerating Elections Before 2029

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has cautioned former Cooperatives Minister Budi Arie Setiadi over his remarks about accelerating political processes before the 2029 general election. Pigai reminded Budi Arie of an incident at a minister's child's wedding where other ministers distanced themselves from him, while Pigai chose to sit beside him out of compassion. The exchange highlights ongoing tensions within President Prabowo Subianto's cabinet following Budi Arie's dismissal in September 2025.

Bekasi Officially Develops Rp3 Trillion Waste-to-Energy (PSEL) Project

Bekasi City has officially commenced development of a Waste-to-Energy (PSEL) facility with an investment value of approximately Rp3 trillion. The project is expected to process 500,000 tonnes of waste annually, supplying green energy to 55,000 households and creating around 1,000 green jobs. It follows a similar initiative previously inaugurated in Denpasar, Bali.

Motorcyclists Banned from Kentungan Underpass, Police Warn of Accident Risks

Sleman traffic police have reiterated a ban on motorcycles using the Kentungan Underpass on the North Ring Road, citing primary safety concerns and compliance with traffic signs. The restriction has been in place since 2023 due to numerous accidents involving two-wheeled vehicles, with violators subject to fines.

Suspect Status of Condongcatur Village Head in Pringwulung Village Land Case Annulled in Pretrial

The Yogyakarta District Court has annulled the suspect status of former Condongcatur village head Reno Candra Sangaji and another former village official in a case involving alleged misuse of village treasury land in Pringwulung, Sleman. The pretrial judge ruled that the Yogyakarta High Prosecutor's Office failed to prove the legality of the suspect determinations. Both men have been ordered released from detention, though the prosecutor's office had previously cited state losses of over Rp4.2 billion.

Judge Rejects Roy Suryo's Pre-trial Motion over Overseas Travel Ban

The South Jakarta District Court has dismissed a pre-trial motion filed by KMRT Roy Suryo challenging a travel ban imposed by Polda Metro Jaya. The judge ruled the motion was irrelevant because the main case concerning allegations of a fake diploma involving former President Joko Widodo had already been transferred to the East Jakarta District Court. The court also found that Suryo had abused legal procedure by filing pre-trial motions one by one after the main case had been registered.

MUI and zakat agencies map recovery needs for NTT earthquake survivors

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) and several zakat agencies have begun mapping medium- and long-term recovery needs for earthquake survivors in East Nusa Tenggara. An assessment team has been deployed to ensure that recovery programmes are targeted and aligned with community needs. Priorities include repairing damaged mosques, prayer rooms, and an Islamic boarding school, as well as restoring children's access to education.

TOBA Shifts Business Direction, Major Corporate Action Ahead

PT TBS Energi Utama Tbk (TOBA) is transforming from a coal-based company into a diversified business, with waste management now contributing 60% of consolidated revenue. The company plans a rights issue of up to 1.39 billion new shares to fund expansion in waste management, renewable energy, and electric vehicles. Analysts note that while operating margins remain low during this investment phase, profitability is expected to follow as the transformation matures.

403 Task Force Personnel Provide Forest and Land Fire Education in Kalimantan and Sumatra

The Indonesian National Police has deployed 403 personnel to eight provincial police regions in Kalimantan and Sumatra to conduct public education on preventing forest and land fires. The initiative follows a directive from the President to strengthen prevention efforts through community outreach. The task force will focus on raising awareness about the dangers of forest fires, their impacts, and relevant legal provisions.

Supporting Government Programme, Dexa Medica Reaches 17,000 People in 12 Cities

PT Dexa Medica, through its Dharma Dexa arm, has extended its free health screening programme to Purwokerto, bringing the total reach to over 17,000 participants across 12 Indonesian cities. The initiative supports the government's focus on early detection of non-communicable diseases by offering blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol checks alongside education and medical consultations. Screening results in Purwokerto revealed that 56.9% of participants had at least one risk factor for non-communicable disease.

Bogor Police and East Nusa Tenggara Students Distribute Rp100 Million in Aid to East Manggarai

Bogor Resort Police, in collaboration with East Nusa Tenggara students studying in Bogor, has distributed Rp100 million in humanitarian aid to residents affected by natural disasters in Tanarata, East Manggarai. The funds were raised voluntarily by police personnel across Bogor Regency, with three officers deployed to oversee the distribution. The initiative aims to accelerate socio-economic recovery and strengthen national solidarity.

Palace Reminds Planned 27 August Protest Must Comply with Applicable Rules

The Indonesian government has said it respects the planned demonstrations in Jakarta on 27 August 2026, describing the expression of opinion as part of democratic life. Head of the Government Communication Body Muhammad Qodari stressed that the right to protest must be exercised within the applicable legal framework. At least three groups, including a Pati-based alliance, a Madura volunteer group, and a coalition of student and civil society organisations, are expected to take part.

Running for BI Governor, Here is Destry Damayanti's Vision!

Destry Damayanti, candidate for Governor of Bank Indonesia, presented her vision and mission during a fit and proper test at the House of Representatives' Commission XI. Her proposed theme is 'Sinergi Merah Putih for the Welfare of the Indonesian People', focusing on maintaining stability and promoting sustainable economic growth. The vision is supported by three missions: safeguarding stability, supporting sustainable growth, and strengthening synergy with stakeholders.

BNPB aerial survey maps landscape of earthquake-affected areas in NTT

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has conducted an aerial survey to map areas affected by the 7.7 magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The survey validated that tsunami impacts were minor and identified locations for air-dropping aid to isolated hilltop communities. The results will be reinforced with ground surveys to accelerate logistics distribution.

Pretrial Judge: Roy Suryo Now Has Defendant Status

The South Jakarta District Court has rejected Roy Suryo's fourth pretrial motion, ruling that he is now formally a defendant after his case was transferred to the East Jakarta District Court. The judge stated that Roy Suryo had consciously waived his legal rights by not filing pretrial motions earlier, and that evidentiary challenges should be raised during the main trial. Roy Suryo and Tifauzia Tyassuma are defendants in a defamation case involving the academic credentials of former President Joko Widodo.

Bontang on Forest Fire Alert, Deputy Mayor Agus Haris Urges Strengthening of Integrated Post

Deputy Mayor of Bontang Agus Haris led a joint troop assembly to bolster readiness against forest and land fires amid prolonged dry weather. The city government, together with the TNI, Polri, and related agencies, plans to establish an integrated post to improve coordination and monitoring. Residents have been urged to avoid careless burning and improper disposal of cigarette butts to prevent fires and worsening air pollution.

Tensions Rise as Russian Aircraft Enter South Korean Air Defence Zone, Seoul Scrambles Fighter Jets

South Korea scrambled fighter jets after Russian military aircraft entered its air defence identification zone over the East Sea, marking the second such incident in recent weeks. The move comes amid deteriorating relations between Seoul and Moscow following South Korea's support for Western sanctions over the Ukraine invasion and Russia's deepening ties with North Korea. The aircraft did not violate South Korean sovereign airspace, but the incident underscores growing regional security frictions.

National Planning Minister wants blockchain to have real impact on development

National Development Planning Minister Rachmat Pambudy has called for blockchain technology to be integrated into Indonesia's digital transformation agenda, emphasising its potential to improve efficiency, transparency and traceability. He highlighted a case of coffee farmers using blockchain to connect directly with international consumers. The government is targeting the digital economy to contribute 12โ€“13 per cent of GDP by 2029.

Purbaya: West Java Regional State Budget Surplus Rp22.02 Trillion

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa reported that West Java's state budget implementation recorded a regional surplus of Rp22.02 trillion as of 31 July 2026. State revenue reached Rp85.61 trillion, driven by strong tax receipts from the manufacturing sector, while spending accelerated, particularly in capital expenditure. The minister emphasised that the budget must translate into tangible economic activity and public benefit, including support for priority programmes such as free nutritious meals and people's business credit.

Man from Malang Arrested After Ordering Cannabis Sweets from England via Website

Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Directorate (Bareskrim Polri) has arrested a 31-year-old man in Malang, East Java, for ordering cannabis-infused sweets from England through a website. The suspect, identified as AJE, had reportedly made four separate orders since March 2026, with the latest package containing THC-laced candy and LSD chocolate. Police described the case as the first of its kind uncovered in Indonesia, highlighting the emerging trend of narcotics being smuggled into the country through postal services.

Telkom Sees Opportunity for Indonesia Amid Middle East Tensions

Telkom Indonesia sees an opportunity to position the country as an alternative global connectivity route as tensions in the Middle East disrupt undersea cable infrastructure. The company is promoting new cable routes through Indonesian waters to connect South Asia to the United States, bypassing the volatile region. This strategy is expected to attract investment by establishing Indonesia as a resilient hub for international data traffic.

Viral Video Shows Trader Claiming Rp 650,000 Fee to Sell at Merak, Police Investigate

A viral video showing a trader claiming he was asked to pay Rp 650,000 to sell at Merak Port in Cilegon has prompted a police investigation. Banten Regional Police have pledged to verify whether any official levy exists and will summon traders and port area managers for clarification. The public has been urged not to spread unverified information.

Malang Police Hold Security Roll Call to Strengthen Regional Protection

Malang Police held a joint security roll call involving the military, local government and community elements to enhance readiness in maintaining public order. The event included checks on personnel and equipment, followed by large-scale joint patrols across Malang Regency. The police chief emphasised the importance of cross-sector collaboration and vigilance in both physical and digital spaces.

Bulog guarantees food availability and smooth distribution in NTT

State logistics agency Perum Bulog has assured that rice stocks and food distribution in East Nusa Tenggara remain secure, with around 35,000 tonnes currently available and an additional 40,000 tonnes being mobilised. The agency is monitoring unloading at Labuan Bajo port and prioritising distribution for government programmes, disaster response, and price stabilisation.

Hajj Officer Salary for 2027 and Complete General and Specific Registration Requirements

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has opened registration for 2027 Hajj officers, with daily pay estimated at around Rp1 million. The recruitment drive attracts tens of thousands of applicants for roughly 1,000 positions due to the financial incentives and valuable experience. Requirements vary by role, covering general, specific, and administrative criteria for positions such as worship guides, media centre staff, and elderly and disability service officers.

How to Raise Independent Children Through Self-Efficacy: Don't Always Take Over

Research by IPB University family science expert Zahro Malihah involving 304 mothers of children aged 4-6 found that self-efficacy has the strongest direct relationship with children's psychological well-being. The study highlights that children's wellbeing depends not only on a good environment but also on experiences that build their belief in their own abilities. Parents are advised to let children try age-appropriate tasks without always taking over when they face difficulties.

Residents Block Road in Bima Protesting Rumoured Replacement of Primary School Head

Residents of Nggeru village in Bima, West Nusa Tenggara, blocked a main road to protest the rumoured replacement of the head teacher of SDN Inpres Nggeru. They argue the current head, Jumrah, has brought many achievements to the school and should be retained. Police are negotiating with residents to reopen the road.

Pertagas Maintains Gas Infrastructure Reliability During 81st Independence Day

PT Pertamina Gas (Pertagas) has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining reliable gas transportation and distribution infrastructure across Sumatra, Java, and Kalimantan during Indonesia's 81st Independence Day commemorations. The company held ceremonies at six operational areas while ensuring continuous energy supply to support the national economy. Management emphasised that infrastructure reliability is a key factor in strengthening national energy security.

Viral Video Shows Motorcyclist in Depok Threatening Driver with Sharp Weapon, Police Investigate

A confrontation between a motorcyclist and a car driver on Jalan Juanda in Depok went viral after the motorcyclist allegedly threatened the driver with a sharp weapon. Police are investigating the incident and have urged the victim to file a formal report. Authorities also reminded the public that carrying sharp weapons in public spaces to threaten others is a criminal offence.

Kupang City Government strengthens earthquake response in six districts

The Kupang City Government has distributed Rp635 million in aid and food packages to six earthquake-affected districts on Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara. Mayor Christian Widodo personally delivered the assistance, emphasising solidarity and humanitarian concern. Local officials welcomed the support, noting that the gesture itself was as significant as the financial value.

Buyer of Drug-Laced Sweets in Malang Ordered Packages from England Four Times

Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has revealed that a suspect in Malang, East Java, ordered cannabis-infused gummy sweets from England on four separate occasions. The packages, sent under the name Sally Hartanto, contained THC-laced products worth approximately Rp639 million. Police stated this is the first time this type and form of narcotics has been discovered in Indonesia.

At least 50 children die from diphtheria outbreak in northwestern Nigeria

A diphtheria outbreak in Kano State, northwestern Nigeria, has killed at least 50 children, prompting the state legislature to call for emergency action. Lawmakers urged the government to enforce the state's Health Protection Law and coordinate with health authorities across six affected local government areas. The World Health Organization has previously warned that low vaccination coverage in Nigeria leaves millions of children vulnerable to further spread.

LRT Inauguration: Traffic Diversions in Manggarai This Morning

The Jakarta Transportation Agency has implemented situational traffic management around Manggarai LRT Station ahead of the inauguration of the Kelapa Gading-Manggarai route. The measures, effective from 7am to 11am WIB, aim to ease congestion and maintain mobility during the ceremony. Several routes, including those from Tebet and Dukuh Atas, have been diverted to alternative roads.

BTN Posts Rp 2.51 Trillion Profit as of July 2026, Up 39.8% YoY

PT Bank Tabungan Negara (Persero) Tbk and its subsidiary Bank Syariah Nasional reported a consolidated net profit of Rp2.51 trillion for the first seven months of 2026, a 39.79% year-on-year increase. The growth was driven by stronger intermediation performance and improved net interest income, with total loans rising 11.88% to Rp421.66 trillion. President Director Nixon L.P. Napitupulu attributed the sustained performance to a decade-long transformation that has moved the bank beyond mortgage lending into an integrated financial ecosystem for Indonesian families.

Bappenas: Science, technology, and mathematics to form main basis of development

Indonesia's National Development Planning Minister Rachmat Pambudy has stated that mathematics, technology, and science will form the primary foundation for future national development. The announcement came during the signing of a cooperation agreement with the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) to establish an SDGs Entrepreneurial Center. The collaboration aims to ensure research outputs translate into tangible benefits for society rather than remaining at the administrative level.