Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 26 August 2026

Showing 251-300 of 1,599 articles

East Manggarai Subdistrict Head Apologises to BNPB and Clarifies Earthquake Aid Dispute

The subdistrict head of Lamba Leda Utara in East Manggarai, NTT, has publicly apologised to the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) after a viral video showed him berating an official over earthquake aid distribution. He clarified that the misunderstanding stemmed from aid being counted at the district level, while only limited supplies had physically reached his subdistrict due to transport constraints. He stressed that his clarification was made on his own initiative and not under pressure.

Deadly flood hits Nepal-Tibet border, hundreds unaccounted for

A catastrophic flood triggered by a rock-ice avalanche near the Nepal-Tibet border has killed at least 22 people and left hundreds of tourists unaccounted for, while damaging hydropower and solar facilities that supply around 430 megawatts of electricity. Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered an all-out rescue effort after mudslides caused major casualties at the Gyirong Port trade hub, and authorities warn a second flood may be imminent due to an upstream blockage. The disaster highlights the growing vulnerability of Himalayan border regions to extreme weather events linked to climate change.

NTB DPRD questions Rp58 billion increase in unexpected spending amid Sade disaster

The West Nusa Tenggara Regional House of Representatives (DPRD NTB) has questioned a sharp rise in the province's Unexpected Spending (BTT) allocation from Rp15 billion to Rp58 billion in the 2026 revised budget. Legislator M. Aminurlah is demanding official clarification and a report on the use of the initial funds, while urging that the additional money be prioritised for urgent needs such as the Sade traditional village fire and water crises. The DPRD plans to discuss the increase with the regional government's budget team to ensure transparency and proper oversight.

Nangkaleah Landfill Fire in Tasikmalaya Still Uncontained, 1,500 Residents Affected by Smoke

A major fire at the Nangkaleah landfill in Tasikmalaya, West Java, has burned five hectares and remains uncontained, with thick smoke affecting at least 1,500 residents across eight hamlets. Firefighters face difficult terrain and strong winds, and two personnel have been evacuated due to exhaustion and breathing difficulties. Local officials are urging health authorities to distribute masks and are seeking additional fire engines to prevent further spread.

Public Works Minister Reports to Prabowo: Flores National Road Connectivity Restored

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo has reported to President Prabowo Subianto that road connectivity on Flores Island is gradually recovering following the magnitude 7.7 earthquake. National roads affected by landslides have been reopened, and the Wae Pesi Bridge in Manggarai has been made functional again to ensure fuel distribution continues. The ministry is also addressing water supply disruptions and giving special attention to Palue Island, including long-term plans for seawater desalination with BRIN.

Pertamina delivers food and medicine to remote areas in Manggarai, NTT

A joint team of volunteers from PT Pertamina Patra Niaga, Pertamina Foundation, and local volunteers delivered food and medical supplies to the remote hamlet of Watu Hedok in East Manggarai, NTT, which had been unreachable since an earthquake struck. The team crossed a 100-metre-wide river and climbed steep terrain to reach 45 families, including children, elderly residents, and a stroke patient in need of urgent medical care. Pertamina said the effort reflects its commitment to ensuring equitable distribution of disaster relief even to the most isolated communities.

NTB Brida: Oarfish appearance a natural event, not a disaster omen

The NTB Regional Research and Innovation Agency (Brida) has clarified that the stranding of an oarfish on Pink Beach, East Lombok, is a natural biological occurrence rather than a sign of impending disaster. The agency attributes such strandings to factors including the fish's health, age, injuries, and ocean currents. Officials have urged the public to respond rationally and rely on scientific research instead of myths or superstitions.

DPR Urges Immediate Payment of Rp158 Billion Debt to Save PT Pos Employees

House of Representatives (DPR) leaders met with PT Pos Indonesia labour unions to address the state-owned company's financial distress, which threatens the livelihoods of 31,000 active employees and 28,000 pensioners. The DPR is pressing for the immediate disbursement of Rp158 billion owed to PT Pos by the Ministry of Social Affairs, with payment expected this week. Lawmakers emphasised that the funds are a legitimate debt, not a bailout, and pledged to monitor the company's restructuring under Danantara.

PB PII Urges Public to Express Aspirations Peacefully, Warns Against Disinformation

The Executive Board of the Islamic Students of Indonesia (PB PII) has called on the public to ensure that expressions of aspiration remain peaceful and orderly amid current social dynamics. The organisation emphasised that freedom of expression must be balanced with respect for the law and the rights of others. PB PII also urged the government and the House of Representatives to open constructive dialogue and for law enforcement to handle public actions humanely and proportionally.

Forestry Minister optimises weather modification in areas with rain cloud seeds

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has announced that the government is intensifying weather modification operations in regions still containing rain cloud seeds to combat forest and land fires. The minister highlighted that rain remains the most effective method for extinguishing fires amid the dry season and a strong El Niño phenomenon. He also urged the public to avoid activities that could trigger fires, such as land clearing and discarding cigarette butts.

BI Senior Deputy Governor Candidate: Macroeconomic Stability Key to Economic Growth

Aida S. Budiman, the sole candidate for Senior Deputy Governor of Bank Indonesia, has emphasised that maintaining macroeconomic stability is essential for economic growth and job creation. She outlined the central bank's strategy of combining interest rate policy with open market operations and hedging incentives to manage exchange rate stability without stifling domestic growth. Aida also highlighted ongoing challenges, including global 'higher for longer' conditions and geopolitical tensions affecting oil prices.

Iran and Oman agree to share revenue from shipping in the Strait of Hormuz

Iran and Oman have reached an agreement to divide revenue from shipping activities in the Strait of Hormuz, according to an IRGC spokesman. The deal includes the division of territorial waters and follows discussions on establishing a temporary shipping corridor and joint mine-clearing operations. The strait remains closed until the United States accepts Iran's conditions.

Astronauts' Constipation Woes: Researchers Seek Solutions

Researchers from the University of Copenhagen and NASA have identified why astronauts often suffer from constipation during space missions. Analysis of blood samples from 52 ISS astronauts revealed that microgravity slows food movement through the gut, causing gut bacteria to ferment more protein. The findings suggest increasing fibre intake could help mitigate the problem.

Police investigate 15 kg methamphetamine network using tow truck modus operandi in Sumur

North Sumatra Police are investigating a drug trafficking network that used a tow truck to transport 15 kilograms of methamphetamine. Two suspects were arrested in Besitang, Langkat Regency, and investigators are now pursuing the network's controllers. Police have urged the public to report suspicious activity as part of efforts to combat narcotics distribution in the region.

Academic: Digitalpreneur opens business opportunities for young generation

An academic from IAHN Mpu Kuturan Singaraja in Bali has highlighted that digital technology is creating wider opportunities for young people to enter entrepreneurship through digital-based business models. Duwi Oktaviana emphasised that creativity, innovation and technological skills are now more important than capital, while cautioning that viral content does not guarantee long-term business success. She also stressed the role of universities in equipping students with practical entrepreneurial experience.

Banda Aceh strengthens disaster cooperation with Japan

The Banda Aceh municipal government has renewed a five-year cooperation agreement with Higashimatsushima, Japan, covering disaster resilience, education, fisheries, environment and tourism. Mayor Illiza Sa'aduddin Djamal said the partnership would benefit local communities through internship programmes, fisher empowerment and SME development. Future activities will be determined following an assessment by Japanese partners, including JICA.

Jembrana Beach Mosque to Be Developed as Halal Tourism and Sharia Economy Hub

Masjid Pantai Jembrana in Bali is being positioned as a centre for religious and halal tourism, as well as a driver of the sharia economy. The initiative, launched alongside the opening of Gaido Travel's 74th branch office, aims to link the hajj and umrah sector with local SMEs, creative economy, investment, and international trade. Stakeholders hope the development will attract Middle Eastern investors and open access for Balinese products to markets such as Saudi Arabia.

Tangerang Police Gather 23 Leasing Companies Amid Public Outcry Over Vehicle Seizures

Tangerang Resort Police have summoned 23 leasing companies to address rising public complaints about debt collectors forcibly seizing vehicles on the road. Police emphasised that repossession must follow lawful procedures, citing a Constitutional Court ruling that prohibits unilateral execution of fiduciary collateral. The meeting also involved the Tangerang Regency Government and the District Prosecutor's Office.

Sinar Mas optimistic GSIH BSD will support strengthening digital ecosystem

Sinar Mas Land is optimistic that the Garuda Spark Innovation Hub (GSIH) at Biomedical Campus in BSD City will strengthen Indonesia's digital ecosystem by bridging technology transfer and venture funding for startups. The hub is a collaboration between the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs and Sinar Mas Land under a Private Owned, Government Operated scheme. It is expected to connect local innovators with global partners and help micro, small and medium enterprises to scale up.

Not Just Premium, Modern Retailers Now Stock Speciality and Fortified Rice

Indonesian modern retailers are increasingly offering speciality rice varieties such as long grain, diabetic-friendly, and fortified options alongside standard medium and premium rice. Retail association Hippindo says the wider choice reflects diverse consumer demand and does not displace existing segments. The association also stressed that retailers must ensure product claims on packaging are accurate to protect consumers.

Aceh High Prosecutor's Office arrests fugitive tobacco corruption convict at Kualanamu

The Aceh High Prosecutor's Office fugitive arrest team has detained Usman, a retired civil servant convicted of corruption in a tobacco development programme, at Kualanamu International Airport. Usman had been on the wanted list after failing to appear for his sentencing and was arrested while preparing to travel for umrah. The case involved state losses of Rp443.49 million from tobacco excise revenue-sharing funds.

Garuda Indonesia explains new baggage rules effective early September

Garuda Indonesia will switch to a piece-based baggage system from 1 September 2026 for tickets issued from early next month. The airline says the change is intended to give passengers clearer information about baggage allowances before they travel. Passengers are advised to check their e-ticket as the main reference for baggage rules.

Calcium score test helps detect plaque linked to heart disease

A cardiologist at Pertamina Central Hospital in Jakarta has highlighted the role of CT coronary calcium scoring in detecting plaque build-up that can lead to coronary heart disease. The non-invasive scan measures calcification in atherosclerotic plaque and uses the Agatston score to classify patient risk. Higher scores indicate heavier plaque burden and may require further evaluation or intervention such as cardiac catheterisation.

10 Global Asset Management Giants: Who Can Rival BlackRock?

BlackRock remains the world's largest asset manager with US$15.3 trillion in assets under management, ahead of Vanguard and Fidelity. The top ten firms collectively manage around US$50.77 trillion, with North American companies dominating the list. Their investment decisions carry significant influence over global financial markets.

Former Medan Transport Agency Head Erwin Saleh acquitted in corruption case

The Medan Corruption Court has acquitted former Medan Transport Agency Head Erwin Saleh of all charges in the alleged corruption case surrounding the 2024 Medan Fashion Festival. The panel of judges ruled that the prosecution failed to prove the charges, either primary or subsidiary. In a related case, former Medan Cooperatives and Trade Agency Head Benny Iskandar Nasution was sentenced to four years in prison and ordered to pay Rp897 million in restitution.

180 Hotspots Emerge in South Kalimantan, Forestry Ministry Implements Layered Strategy

The Ministry of Forestry has strengthened its forest and land fire control strategy in South Kalimantan and Jambi following the detection of 180 hotspots in South Kalimantan on 24 August 2026. The approach combines early detection, satellite monitoring, field verification, rapid response and community involvement. Minister Raja Juli Antoni stressed that speed, preparedness and collaboration are key to preventing fires from spreading.

Tasikmalaya Nangkaleah Landfill Fire: 2 Firefighters Suffer Breathing Difficulties

Two firefighters in Tasikmalaya Regency were evacuated after suffering severe exhaustion and breathing difficulties while tackling a major blaze at the Nangkaleah landfill. The fire, which has burned five hectares of the site, is believed to have been triggered by methane gas during the prolonged dry season. Authorities estimate it may take up to a week to fully extinguish the underground embers, with around 500 residents affected by drifting smoke.

Kediri Customs Chief Gatot Named Suspect, Allegedly Received Rp3.25 Billion

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named Gatot Heroe Hernanda, head of the Kediri Customs and Excise Office, a suspect for allegedly receiving Rp3.25 billion in bribes from PT Blueray. The payments were part of a larger Rp61.9 billion scheme involving customs officials to expedite import clearance. Gatot has been detained for an initial 20 days as the case expands from an earlier investigation that already implicated seven individuals.

Keeping the sky blue amid the siege of forest and land fires

Thousands of personnel are battling forest and land fires across South Kalimantan's peatlands, working around the clock to extinguish surface flames and underground embers. The government has deployed ground crews, helicopters, and 24-hour water supply systems, while also expanding patrols and law enforcement to prevent new fires. Officials stress that human activity, not just natural factors, is the main cause of the recurring blazes.

Prabowo Distributes Rp 200 Billion for NTT Earthquake: Province Receives Rp 40 Billion, Each Regency Rp 20 Billion

President Prabowo Subianto has allocated Rp 200 billion in social assistance to support earthquake response efforts in East Nusa Tenggara. The funding includes Rp 40 billion for the provincial government and Rp 20 billion for each of eight affected regencies. Officials have stressed that the funds must be used exclusively for disaster management and assisting affected communities.

PDIP Official Reminds NU Not to Spend Muktamar Energy on Leadership Contest

PDIP DPP chairman Said Abdullah has urged Nahdlatul Ulama to focus its upcoming Muktamar on addressing the problems of the ummah and the nation rather than on contesting leadership positions. He highlighted NU's role as a cultural space for Islamic values, Indonesian identity, tolerance and local wisdom, while warning against pragmatic and transactional succession politics. Said also pointed to grassroots challenges such as poverty, unemployment, agricultural and environmental crises, and global pressures affecting the economy and democracy.

UIN Denies Thuggery at Pamulang Islamic Primary School, Explains Night-time Visit

UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta has rejected accusations of thuggery in its land dispute with SD/TK Islam Pembangunan in Pamulang, South Tangerang, saying its personnel were internal security staff sent at night to avoid disrupting lessons. Parents and alumni have urged both sides to refrain from intimidation and await a final court ruling.

East Flores Farmer Sentenced to 17 Years for Raping Biological Daughter

A court in Larantuka, East Nusa Tenggara, has sentenced a 40-year-old farmer to 17 years in prison for raping his 15-year-old biological daughter on four occasions. In an unusual additional measure, the panel of judges also stripped the defendant of his parental authority over the victim for 20 years. The court ruled that imprisonment alone would not achieve the sentencing objectives of resolving the conflict, restoring balance, and providing a sense of safety for the victim.

Prosecutors hope judges reject exception plea of Bangun Paulus extortion defendant

Prosecutors at the Central Jakarta District Court have urged the panel of judges to reject the exception plea filed by defendant Bangun Paulus Tudungta in an alleged extortion and threats case. The prosecution argues that the defence's objections have entered the substance of the case and should be tested during the evidentiary stage. The court is expected to issue an interim ruling next Wednesday.

TNI ready to be involved in securing 27 August demonstration

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has confirmed its readiness to assist the National Police in securing a planned demonstration on 27 August. Police have urged the public to exercise their right to free speech peacefully and responsibly, in accordance with the law.

Indonesia steps up patrols to protect orangutans from wildfires

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has ordered increased patrols to protect orangutan habitats in East Kalimantan from wildfires, citing the unusually strong El Niño and climate change as key risk factors. The government is combining fire prevention and control with wildlife protection, including designating an 87-hectare conservation area in the Keraitan orangutan landscape. The move reflects broader concerns over drought and fire risks across Indonesian Borneo this year.

Iran and Oman Agree Temporary Transit Route Through Strait of Hormuz, Tehran: We Hold Full Control

Iran and Oman have agreed a temporary seven-mile transit route through the Strait of Hormuz, though Tehran insists the strategic waterway remains closed and under its full control. The arrangement will run through Iranian territorial waters, with further negotiations planned over the next 30 to 60 days to establish a permanent route. Iran has linked any full reopening of the strait to the United States fulfilling its commitments under the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, including ending the war, lifting blockades, and resolving the status of Yemen.

Pertamax Price Impacts Pertalite Fuel Consumption, Here Is the Evidence

Indonesia's downstream oil and gas regulator BPH Migas has recorded a significant rise in consumption of subsidised Pertalite petrol following increases in non-subsidised fuel prices such as Pertamax. The widening price gap has prompted consumers to shift from non-subsidised to subsidised fuel. Although Pertamax prices were reduced in August 2026, Pertalite consumption remains elevated compared with normal levels.

Senior kiai urge muktamirin to safeguard NU's dignity at congress

Senior Nahdlatul Ulama clerics have called on delegates to the organisation's 35th Congress to protect the integrity and honour of the jam'iyyah and resist pressure, provocation and discord during the proceedings. The clerics, including Mustasyar PBNU K.H. Ma'ruf Amin, urged muktamirin to exercise their voting rights wisely and responsibly in selecting both the Ahlul Halli wal 'Aqdi and the future NU leadership. They also appealed to the government, political forces and outside parties to respect NU's independence and the sovereignty of the congress.

Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs inaugurates nine KPI members for 2026-2029

Minister Meutya Hafid has inaugurated nine members of the Indonesian Broadcasting Commission (KPI) for the 2026-2029 period, following a presidential decree. She urged the commission to prioritise guidance over sanctions and to strengthen broadcasting quality, public oversight, and public participation. The new members pledged to improve broadcast content quality and collaborate with stakeholders to support a healthy democracy.

NU Congress: Gus Yahya Explains AHWA Nomination Mechanism

PBNU Chairman K.H. Yahya Cholil Staquf has detailed the procedure for nominating Ahlul Halli wal Aqdi (AHWA) candidates at the 35th NU Congress in Jombang. Regional and branch administrators may submit sealed nomination letters at the registration area, which must be signed and stamped by the Rais and Katib. Gus Yahya also urged all parties to uphold the organisation's integrity and follow the values of NU's founders.

Odekta concerned about lack of standout female marathon successors

Indonesian female marathon runner Odekta Elvina Naibaho has expressed concern about the absence of emerging talent in the women's marathon to continue the country's international achievements. She welcomed events like the Pertamina Eco RunFest as a platform for athlete regeneration. Odekta is preparing for the 2026 Asian Games and may consider retirement afterwards.

Different Status of Roy Suryo Causes Fourth Pretrial Motion to Be Rejected

Roy Suryo has lost his fourth pretrial motion at the South Jakarta District Court, with the judge ruling that his status has changed from suspect to defendant. The court found the motion concerning a travel ban to be irrelevant following the transfer of the main case to the East Jakarta District Court. This latest ruling follows three previous pretrial decisions, including one that partially granted his challenge against a search, arrest, and detention.

TNI builds eight bridges on Buru Island to improve inter-village access

The Indonesian Army has completed eight inter-village bridges across Buru and South Buru regencies in Maluku, cutting travel times from up to five hours to around one hour. The project is part of the Army's 2026 Large-Scale Community Service Programme and is intended to boost economic activity, agricultural distribution, and access to education. Military officials have urged local communities to maintain the new infrastructure.

Deputy Coordinating Minister for Food outlines flooding methodology as solution to South Kalimantan land and forest fires

Deputy Coordinating Minister for Food Hanif Faisol Nurofiq has detailed a flooding methodology to tackle land and forest fires on peatlands in South Kalimantan. The approach targets two priority areas in Banjarbaru, Guntung Damar and the Liang Anggang protected forest, with the minister expressing optimism that both will be fully handled within two to three days.

NU Ulama Forum Halaqah Reflects on PBNU Leadership

The Forum Ulama Nahdliyin held a one-day halaqah in Jombang ahead of the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Congress to evaluate the current leadership of the organisation's central board. Participants, including hundreds of kiai and NU figures, voiced sharp criticism over perceived weaknesses in managerial capacity, trustworthiness, and the erosion of ulama traditions. The forum also raised concerns about cadre development being oriented towards bureaucratic power and called for NU to refocus on community welfare.

Children's Eye Health in Focus at Maybank Marathon Bali 2026

Optik Tunggal, ZEISS, PERDAMI, and New Balance Eyewear have again used the Maybank Marathon Bali to highlight congenital cataract in children through the #RunForCongenitalCataract campaign. The initiative aims to promote early detection and treatment, with a target of providing 2,025 pairs of glasses for affected children. Actress Asri Welas, whose son was diagnosed with congenital cataract in 2017, joined the campaign to encourage parental awareness and community support.

Banten DLHK Investigates Suspected Cisadane River Pollution, Takes Samples from 3 Industries

The Banten Environment and Forestry Service has collected water samples from three industrial outlets along the Cisadane River following a report from a river care community. Initial inspections found turbid water, waste channels flowing directly into the river, and illegal dumping activities. Laboratory results will determine whether polluter-pays principles and legal sanctions under environmental law will be applied.

Indonesia to restore deforested NTT areas within decade, Prabowo says

President Prabowo Subianto has announced a coordinated reforestation programme for East Nusa Tenggara, aiming to restore deforested areas within ten years. The initiative will involve central and regional governments, universities, and research bodies, with nursery centres and permaculture methods to improve soil water retention. Prabowo also stressed the need for early environmental education to prevent land clearing by burning.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Denies Nasaruddin Umar Resigned as Minister: It's a Hoax

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has dismissed as a hoax reports that Minister Nasaruddin Umar has resigned from his post. The ministry's head of public relations confirmed that Umar remains in office and never submitted a resignation letter to the palace. The false reports had claimed he was stepping down to run for chairman of Nahdlatul Ulama.