Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 26 August 2026

Showing 101-150 of 1,599 articles

Polda Metro: Jakarta Traffic Normal Ahead of Demonstration, Road Diversions Situational

Jakarta's traffic police have confirmed that traffic flow in the capital remains generally normal ahead of a planned demonstration near the DPR/MPR building on Thursday, 27 August. Road diversions will only be applied situationally based on field developments. Police have deployed personnel at various points and are coordinating with the TNI and Jakarta provincial government to secure the protest.

Palu Police arrest suspect in murder of family of three in Duyu

Police in Palu have arrested AK, a suspect in the murder of a family of three in Duyu, Central Sulawesi. The suspect reportedly surrendered voluntarily after a month in hiding in the Balaroa liquefaction area. Investigators have charged him with premeditated murder among other offences.

Governor pushes for free halal certification for 5,000 MSMEs by 2027

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution has urged an increase in free halal certification incentives for micro, small and medium enterprises from 1,000 to 5,000 by 2027. The move aims to strengthen the halal ecosystem and boost the competitiveness of local products in global markets. Currently only around 100,000 of the province's 1.4 million MSMEs hold halal certification.

Yusril denies ordering freezing of Pati activist's account

Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra has denied that he, as head of the Anti-Money Laundering Task Force, ordered the freezing of a bank account belonging to Pati activist Supriyono. He stated that the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (PPATK) took no action in the matter and that he has coordinated with the police to obtain updates on the case. The account has since been reactivated by Bank Mandiri following a police investigation into donation funds for a Pati community protest.

Pemkab Merangin soroti risiko izin otomatis OSS

The Merangin Regency government has raised concerns that the Online Single Submission (OSS) system can issue plantation business permits without full local government awareness, potentially leaving the regency to manage social problems after operations begin. Regional Secretary Zulhifni called for coordination between digital licensing and local authorities, and urged BPKP to consider social, ethical, religious, and environmental impacts in the evaluation. The regency also requested stricter oversight of land ownership data and waste management to prevent river pollution and forest fires.

Indonesia's oil output 5 percent below 2026 target, ministry says

Indonesia's average oil production reached 578,156 barrels per day by the end of July, roughly five percent below the 2026 target, according to the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry. A gas pipeline leak and electricity system problems at the Rokan Block, along with the natural decline at the Cepu Block, have been cited as the main factors weighing on output. The government is coordinating with operators to restore power and slow production declines to help meet national energy goals.

Aircraft Carrier Carrying 5,000 US Troops Docks Near Indonesia, What's Going On?

The USS Abraham Lincoln is set to dock in Thailand after more than 250 days at sea, raising concerns over crew welfare. The prolonged deployment has prompted scrutiny from US senators and criticism of Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth. The carrier's arrival near Indonesian waters highlights regional military activity in Southeast Asia.

Unsoed Rector Case Becomes Momentum for Government to Strengthen Oversight of State Universities

The alleged corruption case involving the Rector of Jenderal Soedirman University (Unsoed) is seen as a momentum for the government to strengthen oversight and governance in state universities. Education observer Indra Charismadji said the case highlights the need for comprehensive system reform to ensure transparency and prevent irregularities. The KPK has named the rector and five others as suspects over alleged manipulation of 73 seats in the independent admission pathway.

Prosecutors Say Extortion Defendant's Indictment Is Complete, Ask Judge to Reject Exception

Prosecutors at the Central Jakarta District Court have asked judges to reject the objection filed by defendant Bangun Paulus Tudungta in an alleged extortion and threatening case. The prosecution argued that the indictment was carefully, clearly, and completely drafted in accordance with the Criminal Procedure Code. They also stated that matters raised by the defence counsel should be addressed during the evidentiary stage rather than at the exception phase.

Bulog reports national unhulled rice procurement reaches 91 percent

State logistics company Perum Bulog has absorbed 91 percent of its 4 million tonne national unhulled rice procurement target, with around 3.6 million tonnes collected as of August. The company says it will continue buying farmers' harvests even after reaching the full target, in line with presidential directives to safeguard food security and stabilise rice prices.

Fire department deploys 132 personnel to extinguish house fire in Penjaringan

The North Jakarta and Thousand Islands Fire and Rescue Department deployed 132 personnel and 22 fire engines to tackle a house fire on Jalan Dermaga Ujung in Pluit, Penjaringan. The blaze was reported at 6.50pm local time and crews successfully contained it, with cooling operations still underway late into the evening. No casualties have been reported.

RAIA Grid to Begin GPU Assembly in Indonesia End of 2026 with US$22 Million Investment

PT Infra Fiber Teknologi, through its RAIA Grid unit, is preparing to invest approximately US$22 million to enter the GPU manufacturing and assembly business in Indonesia, with initial production targeted for December 2026. The move marks an expansion from digital infrastructure into manufacturing, with an initial capacity of 140-150 GPU units per month using the NVIDIA GB300 platform. The company aims to position Indonesia as part of the global AI ecosystem and supply chain, rather than merely a market for AI products.

Forest and Land Fires in West Java Reach 196.40 Hectares During Dry Season

The West Java Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has reported that forest and land fires have scorched 196.40 hectares across the province during the current dry season as of 24 August 2026. A total of 132 fire incidents have been recorded across 91 sub-districts and 153 villages. Sumedang Regency experienced the highest number of incidents, while Sukabumi Regency suffered the largest burned area.

Police urge protesters to safeguard public facilities ahead of 27 August demonstration

Jakarta Metropolitan Police have called on demonstrators planning a mass rally on 27 August to maintain public order and avoid damaging public facilities. Police say they will provide space for lawful expression of opinion but expect protests to be conducted peacefully and responsibly. Security personnel will be deployed at key locations including the parliament complex and along the route from the Hotel Indonesia roundabout to the State Palace.

Jakarta Transportation Agency Deploys 120 Officers to Manage Traffic During DPR Protest

The Jakarta Transportation Agency has deployed 120 officers to manage traffic congestion during a public demonstration at the DPR/MPR building on Thursday. Police estimate around 500 protesters will attend, based on notifications from several community alliances, with possible participation from student groups. Authorities have confirmed no arrests or dangerous weapons have been found so far.

KPK seizes three large motorcycles and Rp2.8 billion in Customs corruption case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized three large motorcycles and foreign currency worth approximately Rp2.8 billion as part of its ongoing investigation into alleged corruption within the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. The seizure follows the naming of a suspect identified as GH, with investigators indicating further searches and asset confiscations are likely. The case has already seen eight individuals named as suspects, including senior customs officials and private company executives.

Coordinating Minister says Malang Migrant Center guarantees protection for CPMI and PMI

Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Muhaimin Iskandar has launched the Malang Migrant Center as a collaborative hub to safeguard the rights of prospective and current Indonesian migrant workers. The centre aims to create an integrated ecosystem covering pre-placement through to return, while anticipating geopolitical shifts and overseas job market competition. Malang is a significant migrant worker source region, with over 8,000 PMI recorded in 2025.

Finance Minister Purbaya gathers economists to discuss RAPBN 2027 strategy

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa met with financial sector analysts to discuss the 2027 State Budget Draft (RAPBN), emphasising fiscal, monetary and financial sector stability amid global turmoil. The government will focus on accelerating priority programmes with high multiplier effects and boosting tax revenue through extensification and intensification rather than rate hikes.

Tangerang City Education Head Urges Schools and Parents to Monitor Students During Protests

The Tangerang City Education Office has issued a circular requiring parents to pick up their children from school amid planned protests in Jakarta and surrounding areas on 27-28 August 2026. The directive applies to all state and private schools from early childhood through junior secondary levels. The measure aims to ensure student safety during the demonstration period.

GPI urges public not to be provoked ahead of AMPB rally on 27 August

The Islamic Youth Movement (GPI) has called on the public to remain calm ahead of a planned rally by the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB) at the MPR/DPR/DPD building in Jakarta on 27 August. GPI emphasised that expressing aspirations is a constitutional right, but must be conducted peacefully and with dignity. The group also rejected any attempts to use the people's name to sow division or legitimise the interests of a particular group.

Indonesia uses 4.6 million liters of water to fight wildfires

Indonesia's disaster mitigation agency has deployed 4.6 million liters of water in aerial operations against wildfires across six priority provinces, though efforts are hampered by shrinking water sources, difficult terrain, and poor visibility. Authorities are drilling wells, opening canals, and conducting weather modification to induce rainfall as peatland fires continue to pose a major challenge. Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and avoid activities that could spark new fires.

West Java DPRD Commission II Stresses Regulatory Compliance in Forest Management

West Java's Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) Commission II has urged all parties involved in a forest management dispute to resolve the matter through dialogue while adhering to existing regulations. The commission highlighted irregularities in the legality of Koperasi Binamitra and called for corrective measures. Perum Perhutani and PT Palawi were commended for their compliance and sense of responsibility.

FitHub Kopo and Surya Sumantri Closed Over Alleged Illegal Franchise Operation

PT Asimah Citraprasada Nusantara has closed two FitHub fitness centres in Bandung after discovering the units were allegedly operating without a franchise registration certificate. The company claims it paid franchise and management fees to PT Jaya Digital Properti, which it says failed to provide transparent financial reports and meet tax obligations. PT Asimah has pursued legal action, including reporting the matter to the National Police, to protect its assets and terminate the partnership.

Europe's Giant Grows Sicker: Bankruptcy Numbers Explode, Reaching 188,000

Germany's economy is facing a severe crisis, with corporate closures reaching their highest level in nearly two decades. Around 188,000 companies ceased operations in 2025, a 10% increase from the previous year, amid rising energy costs, high taxes, and tight bank lending. Experts warn that the cumulative crisis, exacerbated by AI disruption and demographic shifts, is eroding the foundation of Europe's largest economy.

Viral Video Shows East Nusa Tenggara Primary School Pupils Challenging Education Head to Cross River

A viral video showing primary school pupils in Timor Tengah Utara, East Nusa Tenggara, chanting at a civil servant as he prepared to cross a flooded river has highlighted severe infrastructure gaps in the region. The local regent confirmed that the river crossing is a daily route for students and that limited regional finances have prevented bridge construction. Following the video's circulation, the Indonesian Army has pledged to build a bridge in the area this year.

Protest at DPR: Traffic remains normal with situational diversions

Jakarta traffic police have confirmed that traffic flow in the capital remains generally normal ahead of a planned protest near the DPR/MPR building on Thursday. Police will implement road diversions only situationally based on developments on the ground. Authorities have urged the public to remain calm and verify information before sharing it on social media.

Pertamina Eco RunFest Champions Sustainability and Zero Waste Initiatives

PT Pertamina is hosting its 13th annual Eco RunFest with the theme 'Spark the Change, Leave Zero Trace', aiming to promote environmental responsibility through seven sustainability initiatives. The event, scheduled for 6 December 2026 in Jakarta, will feature recycled jerseys, waste management programmes, and educational tools, with all ticket proceeds donated to environmental projects. Pertamina executives emphasise that the festival is designed to translate sustainability values into everyday habits rather than remaining a one-off event.

PSSI responds to Bangladesh replacing India in FIFA ASEAN Cup

PSSI Secretary General Yunus Nusi has stated that the Indonesian football association cannot yet confirm whether Bangladesh has officially replaced India in the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026. The Bangladesh Football Federation has announced a preliminary squad for the tournament, which Indonesia will host from 24 September to 4 October.

Unej students pioneer IoT-based smart aquaponics for island food security

Students from the University of Jember have developed AQUATERRA, an Internet of Things-enabled smart aquaponics system designed to integrate fish farming and crop cultivation while conserving water and energy. The innovation targets food security challenges in the Thousand Islands regency, where limited land and reliance on mainland Jakarta supplies constrain local production. The project recently secured second place in a national scientific essay competition.

Beach PON to be held at Ancol in November

The first-ever Pekan Olahraga Nasional (PON) Pantai, Indonesia's national beach games, will be held at Ancol, Jakarta, in late November 2026. The event is a collaboration between KONI Pusat, the DKI Jakarta provincial government and KONI DKI Jakarta, and Jaya Ancol. Organisers highlight the venue's readiness and the sport tourism potential of hosting the competition at a major tourist destination.

BNI wondrX 2026 Draws 100,000 Visitors and Rp2.73 Trillion in Transactions

PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk concluded its annual BNI wondrX 2026 event, attracting more than 100,000 visitors and recording Rp2.73 trillion in transactions over three days. The event surpassed its targets, with visitor numbers growing 30% year-on-year and transaction value up 21%, while involving nearly 400 tenants and partners. BNI's leadership and Danantara Indonesia CEO Rosan Roeslani highlighted the event as evidence of the bank's transformation towards more human-centred financial services.

Iranian TV Video Threatens to Kill Trump's Son Barron with Rp 177 Billion Bounty

Iranian state broadcaster IRIB aired a segment titled 'Where to kill Barron Trump?!' that allegedly tracks the US president's youngest son and offers a US$10 million reward for locating him. The US Secret Service has confirmed awareness of the video and is investigating potential threats to its protectees. The broadcast comes amid longstanding tensions between Washington and Tehran, including prior US accusations that Iran's IRGC plotted to assassinate Donald Trump.

Ministry of Tourism coordinates to boost air connectivity

Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism is intensifying coordination with transport authorities and aviation stakeholders to expand flight connectivity from key source markets to priority destinations. The effort includes collaboration with Garuda Indonesia on an inbound connectivity programme and a broader push to keep domestic airfares affordable. The ministry sees improved air access as vital to sustaining tourism growth across the archipelago.

North Sumatra police hunt drug kingpin behind 15-kg meth haul

North Sumatra police are expanding their investigation to identify the mastermind of a drug network that smuggled 15 kilograms of methamphetamine from Aceh to Jakarta using a tow truck as cover. Two suspects were arrested in Langkat District on August 20, 2026, and allegedly received the drugs from a source in Aceh on orders from another individual, with delivery destined for Tangerang. Authorities are tracing the network's controllers and have urged the public to report suspicious drug-related activities.

Central Jakarta Government Urges Civil Servants to Undergo Regular Health Checks and Control Blood Sugar

The Central Jakarta administration has called on civil servants to undergo regular health screenings and manage blood sugar and blood pressure levels. Deputy Mayor Eric PZ Lumbun stressed that employee health is essential for delivering quality public services. Participation in free health check programmes remains low, with only about 700 out of 5,900 employees having taken part.

DKI Jakarta to Waive Fines and Provide Rental Relief for Low-Income Rusunawa Residents

The Jakarta provincial government plans to waive late fees and offer rent restructuring for low-income residents of public rental flats (rusunawa) who are unable to pay. The move responds to Rp95.5 billion in outstanding rent arrears recorded in 2025. Deputy Governor Rano Karno said the policy aims to protect vulnerable residents from losing their homes while ensuring the sustainability of regional assets.

Revitalising Indonesia's Ministry for Accelerated Development of Eastern Indonesia

The article argues that Eastern Indonesia's contribution to the national economy has stagnated at around 20 per cent over the past decade, with investment credit and growth heavily concentrated in the west. It proposes that President Prabowo Subianto revitalise the Ministry for Accelerated Development of Eastern Indonesia to improve coordination and reduce regional disparities.

Yusril Responds to Public Pressure on Asset Forfeiture Bill

Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra has confirmed the government's readiness to discuss the Asset Forfeiture Bill with the DPR, with a target to complete deliberations by the end of 2026. He also addressed public demands for the death penalty for corruption convicts, noting that such provisions already exist in law but remain the prerogative of the judiciary.

MPR Deputy Speaker Urges Comprehensive National Disaster Preparedness

MPR Deputy Speaker Lestari Moerdijat has called for a thorough evaluation of Indonesia's disaster preparedness following a series of deadly natural disasters. She emphasised the need for adaptive education and infrastructure systems, as well as stronger public disaster literacy, to mitigate the risks faced by communities in the disaster-prone archipelago.

Parking Tariffs May Rise by Rp60,000, Transport Agency Says Not Yet Final

The Jakarta provincial government has clarified that proposed increases to parking tariffs, which could reach Rp60,000 per hour for cars, have not been finalised. The current rates remain in effect under existing regulations, with any future changes requiring approval from the Governor and consultation with the regional parliament. Officials sought to reassure the public after documents circulated suggesting significant hikes.

Shallot farmers in Alahan Panjang utilise pest trap technology

Shallot farmers in Alahan Panjang, West Sumatra, have adopted light trap technology and electrified irrigation to reduce pest attacks and cut pesticide use by around 50 per cent. The initiative is supported by the Ministry of Agriculture's irrigation assistance and PLN's electrifying agriculture programme. Farmers report lower production costs and safer produce as a result.

Ahead of 35th Congress, Nahdliyin Ulama Forum Highlights Mining Concessions and PBNU Autocracy Issues

The Forum Ulama Nahdliyin held a halaqah in Jombang, East Java, on the eve of the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Congress, voicing sharp criticism of the current PBNU leadership. Senior clerics raised concerns over managerial weakness, alleged intimidation at the congress, corruption scandals, and controversial foreign diplomacy involving Israeli figures. They also warned that political compromises over mining concessions could silence the organisation's critical voice on corruption and public welfare.

Academic Warns Against Ambiguous Norms in Asset Forfeiture Bill

A criminal law academic has urged the House of Representatives and the government to draft clear and explicit norms in the Asset Forfeiture Bill, warning that ambiguous legal provisions could lead to misinterpretation by law enforcement and trigger judicial review at the Constitutional Court. Mahrus Ali of Wahid Hasyim University specifically cautioned against using the phrase 'sufficiently clear' in the bill's explanatory notes. He argued that technical definitions should be spelled out to ensure legal certainty and protect the public.

Tourism Ministry and Danantara to Develop Destinations to Create Jobs

The Ministry of Tourism and BPI Danantara are strengthening collaboration to develop tourist destinations and infrastructure with the aim of creating broader employment opportunities. The partnership covers investment, human resource capacity building, and marketing, although the exact working scheme remains under discussion. A memorandum of understanding was signed to serve as an umbrella for integrating tourism development with investment opportunities.

Dishub Prepares Traffic Engineering Around DPR-Palace Ahead of Planned Protest

The Jakarta Transportation Agency (Dishub) has announced traffic management plans in anticipation of a public demonstration near the DPR/MPR building and the State Palace. The measures include situational traffic diversions across three zones and the deployment of 120 officers in two shifts. Motorists are advised to follow officer directions and use alternative routes during the event.

MPR Speaker urges ITS to strengthen agricultural and animal feed research

People's Consultative Assembly Speaker Ahmad Muzani has called on the Sepuluh Nopember Institute of Technology to intensify research in agriculture and animal feed to support national food sovereignty. He emphasised that technological advancement must be linked to strengthening nationalism and reducing dependence on imports. Muzani also highlighted the importance of the State Policy Guidelines as a sustainable national development compass.

Immigration monitors 261 foreign nationals in Central Papua

The Papua Regional Office of the Directorate General of Immigration is intensifying supervision of 261 foreign nationals in Central Papua through cross-agency coordination within the Foreigner Supervision Team (Timpora). The effort involves local government, security forces, and other agencies to ensure foreign workers comply with permits and regulations. Central Papua's natural resources, particularly mining, are drawing investor interest, making integrated oversight essential.

Road Upgrades In Bali’s Top Tourism Destinations Set To Reduce Vacation Traffic Jams

The Badung Regency Government has confirmed plans to build new roads, underpasses, and public transport links to tackle chronic traffic congestion in Bali's tourism areas such as Canggu and Tibubeneng. A 4.7-kilometre road connecting Canggu to West Teuku Umar is set to begin construction in 2026, with a tram line between Kuta and Canggu also planned. The initiatives aim to improve tourist comfort and protect the competitiveness of Bali's tourism sector.

Russian Aircraft Breach South Korean Air Defence Zone, Fighter Jets Scrambled

South Korea scrambled fighter jets after Russian military aircraft entered its Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ) over the East Sea, marking the second such intrusion in recent weeks. Seoul's Defence Ministry said the planes did not violate sovereign airspace but entered the buffer zone, prompting an emergency response. The incident comes amid deteriorating relations between Moscow and Seoul, which has joined Western sanctions over the Ukraine invasion while Russia deepens military ties with North Korea.

NTT Struck by Disaster, Riau Police Affirm Police Must Be Present Amid Residents' Hardship

The Riau Regional Police and its Bhayangkari organisation have dispatched humanitarian aid to disaster-affected communities in East Nusa Tenggara, demonstrating that police duties extend beyond security to humanitarian responsibility. The assistance includes staple foods and emergency supplies for residents in Ende, Nagekeo, East Manggarai, and Manggarai regencies.