Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 27 August 2026

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Minister Maman: Recovery of MSMEs affected by Sumatra disasters to continue until 2028

Minister of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Maman Abdurrahman has announced that the economic recovery programme for MSMEs affected by disasters in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra will be implemented in stages until 2028. The programme includes a total budget of approximately Rp1.26 trillion targeting over 438,000 MSMEs across the three-year period. The central government will coordinate with regional administrations to ensure the programme is well-targeted and sustainable.

Pickpocket 'Joins' Demonstration at DPR Building

A suspected pickpocket was caught and beaten by protesters during a demonstration outside the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) building in Jakarta on Thursday evening. The man was eventually escorted into the DPR building to prevent further violence. The protest itself drew various groups demanding the death penalty for corruptors and greater government alignment with the people.

Prabowo: Without NU-Muhammadiyah I Could Not Have Become the People's Mandate Holder

President Prabowo Subianto has acknowledged that he would never have become President of Indonesia without the support of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and Muhammadiyah. Speaking at the opening of NU's 35th Congress in Jombang, East Java, he described NU as a historic institution with a major role in Indonesia's independence struggle. Prabowo pledged to continue strengthening and empowering both organisations and their pesantren networks.

Jakarta Provincial Government Encourages Development of Flats as Sustainable Ecosystems

The Jakarta Provincial Government is promoting the development of public housing flats (rusun) as sustainable living ecosystems, integrating residential units with education, health, and business facilities. Deputy Governor Rano Karno outlined plans to use Transit Oriented Development and one-stop living concepts, while strengthening protections for low-income residents. The policy aims to create affordable, safe, and inclusive housing for all Jakarta residents.

Pertamina Brings Home 2.5 Million Barrels of Its Overseas Oil to Indonesia

Indonesia's state-owned energy company Pertamina plans to repatriate 2.5 million barrels of crude oil from its overseas assets to strengthen domestic refinery supply, with 1.7 million barrels already delivered. The move comes as national oil production remains below target, reaching only 94.8% of the 2026 state budget lifting goal of 610,000 barrels per day.

Danantara Housing Expo targets Rp6-10 trillion in home purchase transactions

Danantara Indonesia aims to facilitate between Rp6 trillion and Rp10 trillion in home purchase transactions during the Danantara Housing Expo 2026, held from 27 to 30 August at PIK 2 in Tangerang. The expo features over 120,000 property options from more than 130 developers, including 12 state-owned enterprises offering 16,559 units across 23 provinces. The event offers mortgage tenors of up to 40 years for low-income households, with down payments starting at 1 percent through state-owned banks.

Three district BPBDs strengthen earthquake disaster response

Regional disaster management agencies (BPBD) from Temanggung, Wonosobo, and Banjarnegara in Central Java conducted a joint earthquake response exercise to improve inter-agency coordination and preparedness. The simulation covered multiple response clusters including rescue, shelter, logistics, health, education, and recovery. Officials emphasised the critical role of trained volunteers in reaching difficult-to-access disaster locations.

Qlola by BRI Supports Retail Businesses at Indonesia Retail Summit

Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) showcased its Qlola digital banking platform at the Indonesia Retail Summit & Expo 2026, highlighting its cash management, payroll, and supply chain solutions for retail businesses. The platform aims to help retailers manage complex operations across multiple outlets, suppliers, and high transaction volumes. BRI also introduced the 'New Experience Qlola' update, built on personalisation, connectivity, and seamless user experience.

Communications Ministry Monitors Digital Space During Protests, Here Are the Results

The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs has intensified monitoring of digital platforms during public demonstrations in Jakarta, citing concerns over disinformation, defamation, and hate speech. Minister Meutya Hafid affirmed the government's respect for freedom of expression while warning that provocative content would face firm action. The ministry also cautioned the public against viral livestreams driven by monetisation rather than factual accuracy.

Deputy Minister Isyana: Family Planning Operational Assistance is an investment in human development

Deputy Minister of Population and Family Development Ratu Ayu Isyana Bagoes Oka has emphasised that the Family Planning Operational Assistance (BOKB) is a key instrument for investing in Indonesia's human development. She highlighted that family planning supports maternal and child health, prevention of risky pregnancies and stunting, and ultimately the quality of future generations. The government is evaluating the management of the Special Allocation Fund for Family Planning for the first semester of 2026, with a total BOKB target of approximately Rp1.999 trillion for the 2026 fiscal year.

PNM and Media Unite Through Sport to Aid Disaster Victims in NTT and NTB

State-owned enterprise PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) partnered with media editors-in-chief in a sports tournament to raise funds for disaster victims in East Nusa Tenggara and fire victims in Sade Village, West Nusa Tenggara. Each point scored was converted into donations, raising Rp 26.8 million. PNM's president director emphasised that collective care amplifies the impact of assistance for affected communities.

Prabowo Jokes with Gus Yahya at NU Congress: I've Been Asking for an NU Card for Ages

President Prabowo Subianto made a light-hearted appeal for a Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) membership card while opening the organisation's 35th congress in Jombang, East Java. He claimed he had long requested the card from PBNU chairman Yahya Cholil Staquf and hoped to receive it before the congress closes on 31 August 2026. The president attended the opening accompanied by several ministers from the Red and White Cabinet.

Trade Minister optimistic IEU-CEPA will be signed by end of October 2026

Trade Minister Budi Santoso has expressed optimism that the Indonesia-European Union Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU-CEPA) will be signed by late October 2026, with implementation targeted for early 2027. The government is coordinating with the EU and its 27 member states to complete administrative processes, while preparing implementing regulations and a single contact point for the agreement. The deal is expected to liberalise around 98 percent of tariff lines and secure continued market access for Indonesian products as the EU's GSP facility expires at the end of 2026.

Duren Sawit develops 'Green Alley' integrated with waste bank

Duren Sawit subdistrict in East Jakarta is developing a 'Green Alley' programme that integrates waste management with urban farming, supported by state-owned mining company PT Antam through its corporate social responsibility scheme. The initiative involves eight neighbourhood units in RW 15 and includes household waste sorting, a waste bank, and the use of limited land for growing vegetables. Officials and Antam representatives emphasised that community involvement is key to the programme's sustainability.

Thousands protest in Jakarta for stronger anti-corruption measures

Thousands of demonstrators gathered outside Indonesia's parliament in Jakarta to demand stronger anti-corruption measures, including passage of the Asset Forfeiture Bill and the death penalty for corruption convicts. Protesters also called for accountability from President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka over policies they say have weakened democracy and worsened economic inequality. The protests come amid heightened security deployment and follow last year's nationwide unrest over lawmaker allowances and police brutality.

Traffic Police Chief Wants Thousands of Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers to Become Road Safety Pioneers

The National Police Traffic Corps (Korlantas) has trained 5,150 online motorcycle taxi drivers from Greater Jakarta in road safety and first aid. The event, held at the Indonesia Safety Driving Center in Serpong, is part of the 71st anniversary of Lalu Lintas Bhayangkara. Traffic Police Chief Inspector General Wibowo urged the drivers to become role models for discipline and traffic compliance.

Investasi Hijau daCJIBF 2026 Cetak Rencana Investasi Rp19,6 Triliun di Jawa Tengah

The Central Java Investment Business Forum 2026 generated investment plans worth Rp19.6 trillion through 37 letters of intent, alongside major commitments including a halal food industrial estate in Pemalang and waste-to-energy projects across seven regencies. The event highlighted Central Java's strong economic performance, with growth of 5.71% in Q2 2026 outpacing both Java and national figures, and showcased 26 clean and clear investment projects spanning renewable energy, manufacturing, and sustainable tourism.

Mataram Fisheries Agency distributes aid to fish farming groups

The Mataram Fisheries Agency has begun distributing freshwater aquaculture facilities and post-harvest equipment to fish farming groups, funded by Rp1.70 billion from the 2026 tobacco excise revenue-sharing fund. The programme targets around 133 groups across five districts, providing tilapia fingerlings, feed, and harvesting tools. Officials expect the assistance to boost production, support local food security, and improve the welfare of fish farmers.

BNPB reports reduction in number of evacuees at Sikka Regency shelters

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has reported a significant decrease in the number of earthquake evacuees in Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, with figures dropping from 10,708 to 2,439 individuals. The agency is encouraging residents whose homes remain structurally sound to leave evacuation shelters and return home, while assuring continued food and basic needs support for those who do. The death toll from the M7.7 earthquake has risen to 111 following the discovery of six additional victims in Manggarai and East Manggarai regencies.

BNN: Rehabilitation a key part of drug handling through recovery

Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has emphasised that rehabilitation is central to a recovery-oriented approach to drug problems. The agency has signed a memorandum of understanding with the social affairs, health, and manpower ministries to strengthen medical and social rehabilitation as well as post-rehabilitation support. The collaboration aims to help recovering drug users become independent and reintegrate into society through vocational training and job placement.

Habits that can affect male fertility

Professor Budi Wiweko, a leading Indonesian fertility specialist, has warned that everyday habits such as keeping mobile phones in trouser pockets, using laptops on laps, and prolonged television viewing can damage sperm DNA and reduce male fertility. He advises couples to prioritise male fertility checks and adopt healthier lifestyles before starting IVF programmes.

IPPGA launches framework to strengthen PPGA profession in Indonesia

The Indonesia Public Policy & Government Affairs (IPPGA) Group has launched a playbook mapping the knowledge, skills and frameworks needed to develop the public policy and government affairs profession in Indonesia. The publication aims to provide a structured reference for a rapidly growing field that has lacked formal guidance. IPPGA Group intends to develop the playbook further through collaboration with universities, government and practitioners.

Prabowo beats bedug to open 35th Nahdlatul Ulama congress

President Prabowo Subianto officially opened the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) congress in Jombang, East Java, emphasising the government's need to remain close to the country's largest Islamic organisations. He highlighted NU's historic role in Indonesia's independence struggle and its continued importance for national stability. The congress serves as a forum for NU members to consolidate and set the organisation's direction.

FBI Warns of Major Danger: Do Not Charge Your Phone Here

The FBI has issued a formal warning about the risks of using public USB charging stations, which cybercriminals can exploit to install malware and steal personal data. The agency advises travellers to avoid free charging points at airports, hotels, and shopping centres. The warning echoes earlier alerts from the FCC about 'juice jacking', where public USB ports are manipulated to extract usernames and passwords.

Unsoed Rector Arrested by KPK, DPR Reveals Key Government Steps to Reform State Universities

The House of Representatives Commission X has called for stronger governance in state university admissions following the arrest of Unsoed Rector Prof Akhmad Sodiq by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). The commission stressed that admissions must be based on merit and transparency, not personal connections or financial capacity. It plans to seek clarification from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology on measures to close loopholes, particularly in the independent admission pathway.

iPhone Ultra components likely arranged side-by-side to maintain slim design

Leaked images and videos suggest Apple's first foldable phone, the iPhone Ultra, may use a side-by-side chip and memory layout to save internal space. The arrangement reportedly employs a redistribution layer instead of stacked silicon, potentially helping Apple achieve a thinner device. The handset is expected to launch in September with a price exceeding US$2,000.

Prabowo Subianto Pledges to Strengthen NU as a National Asset

President Prabowo Subianto has committed his government to strengthening Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and Muhammadiyah as strategic national assets during the opening of the 35th NU Congress in Jombang, East Java. He acknowledged the crucial role both Islamic organisations played in his rise to the presidency and stressed the importance of empowering religious organisations and Islamic boarding schools. Prabowo also expressed his desire to formally become a member of NU, jokingly requesting his membership card from PBNU Chairman Yahya Cholil Staquf.

MPR hopes future Four Pillars quiz competition reaches wider range of participants

The People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) aims to expand the reach of its Four Pillars quiz competition to more regions across Indonesia. This year's event saw finalists from Kalimantan, Jakarta, and West Java, with a team from Central Kalimantan emerging as champion. Officials noted a shift in the competition's focus from rote memorisation towards reasoning and understanding of the Four Pillars' values.

Immigration Opens Immigration Lounge at Discovery Mall, Serving Passports and Stay Permits

The Directorate General of Immigration has inaugurated the Immigration Lounge Discovery Mall Bali, the first immigration service facility to operate inside a shopping centre in Bali. The lounge serves 100 to 120 applicants daily for stay permits and offers passport services with a daily quota of 40. The initiative is part of a broader push to expand public service access through technology and private-sector collaboration.

Huawei and HP sign global patent cross-licensing agreement

Chinese technology giant Huawei and US firm HP have concluded a multi-year global patent cross-licensing agreement, granting HP access to Huawei's Wi-Fi-related patents. The deal is seen by industry observers as evidence of Huawei's innovation capabilities and core technological strength. Huawei reported that it has signed more than 260 patent licensing agreements with leading ICT manufacturers worldwide, with patent licensing revenue reaching approximately US$630 million in 2024.

KLH deploys hundreds of inspectors to investigate 42 corporations over forest and land fires

Indonesia's Ministry of Environment has deployed hundreds of environmental inspectors to examine 42 companies suspected of involvement in forest and land fires across Sumatra and Kalimantan. The inspections aim to establish direct links between the fires and business activities, identify affected areas, and gather evidence for legal enforcement. Companies found negligent face administrative sanctions, fines, or criminal prosecution depending on the scale of damage.

Prabowo Promises Four Interactive Screens for NU Schools

President Prabowo Subianto has apologised to Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) for delays in distributing interactive learning screens to its schools and pesantren. He attributed the oversight to administrative negligence and clarified that the Education Minister was not at fault, as NU schools fall under the Ministry of Religious Affairs. The President pledged that every NU classroom will receive four interactive screens this year, exceeding the allocation for state schools.

Death Toll from Nepal Flash Floods Reaches 289

The death toll from flash floods in northern Nepal has risen to 289, with authorities still verifying reports of 260 missing foreign nationals. The disaster was triggered by seismic activity that caused large-scale landslides, sending torrents of water and debris into the Bhotekoshi River. Rescue teams in both Nepal and China continue search operations amid difficult terrain and fluctuating river levels.

Artholic Studio UNM Ready to Showcase Business Progress at PKP-P2MW 2026

Artholic Studio, a student enterprise from Universitas Nusa Mandiri, is set to present its business development at the 2026 PKP-P2MW assessment organised by the Directorate of Learning and Student Affairs. The team produces custom home decor from wood waste and MDF, and views the assessment as a key milestone towards the KMI Expo 2026.

Wedding on a tanker truck: water becomes dowry for drought-affected residents

A mass wedding ceremony in Bantul, Yogyakarta, saw couples married atop a water tanker truck, with each groom giving one tank of clean water as a symbolic dowry. The water was donated to communities suffering from drought. The event combined a unique marriage rite with a charitable response to water scarcity.

ADB and SMBC Bank collaborate to expand financing for Indonesian SMEs

The Asian Development Bank and PT Bank SMBC Indonesia have signed a risk-sharing agreement to broaden access to working capital for Indonesian businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises. The partnership aims to help SMEs manage operations, meet rising demand, and strengthen their role in supply chains. It marks ADB's first risk-sharing partnership with a local bank in Indonesia under its Trade and Supply Chain Finance Program.

Forest and Land Fires in Central Kalimantan Worsen, with 3,947 Hotspots Recorded

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has reported a sharp rise in forest and land fires in Central Kalimantan, with hotspots increasing by 1,837 to reach 3,947. Ground operations are under way in Pulang Pisau, Seruyan, and Kapuas to extinguish fires and contain their spread. The fires have also driven a surge in acute respiratory infections in West Kotawaringin, where 515 cases were recorded in a single week.

Destry Damayanti Appointed as Bank Indonesia Governor Candidate, Here Are the Next Steps

House of Representatives Commission XI has approved Destry Damayanti as the candidate for Bank Indonesia Governor for the 2026โ€“2031 period following a two-day fit and proper test. Aida S. Budiman was also approved as Senior Deputy Governor candidate and Solikin M. Juhro as Deputy Governor candidate. The appointments will be formalised at a plenary session on 1 September 2026.

Finance Ministry ensures state spending effectively disbursed to drive growth

Indonesia's Finance Ministry has affirmed that state expenditure is being channelled effectively to stimulate economic growth, with spending reaching Rp1,656 trillion by June 2026, up 17.8 percent year-on-year. The ministry aims to leverage public spending to spur private consumption and investment, reducing reliance on natural resource exports. Fiscal discipline and financial sector innovation are being maintained to support President Prabowo Subianto's target of 8 percent economic growth.

Ahead of Febrie Adriansyah ruling, students stage protest at South Jakarta District Court

Dozens of students demonstrated outside the South Jakarta District Court on Thursday, demanding judges reject a pretrial motion filed by former junior attorney general for special crimes Febrie Adriansyah. The protest came ahead of the court's ruling on his challenge against searches, seizures and his naming as a suspect in alleged money laundering and corruption cases. Police were present to secure the demonstration and manage traffic.

Hindu Extremists Gather in New York, Mayor Mamdani Speaks Out

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani has voiced opposition to an event featuring RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat at Madison Square Garden, while acknowledging the city has limited authority to cancel private gatherings. The event, part of the RSS centenary global outreach tour, has drawn criticism from interfaith and civil rights groups over the organisation's record on minority rights. The controversy follows a US commission's call for sanctions against the RSS.

Health Minister Highlights Mental Health of Doctors and Health Workers, Many Suffering from Stress

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has raised concerns over the mental health of medical and health workers, announcing government measures to improve human resource management in the health sector. The Ministry of Health is working with other ministries to refine workforce data, set productivity standards, and adjust remuneration and incentives. Plans include expanding incentives for general practitioners and dentists, increasing scholarships, and using digital databases to match volunteer experience with disaster response needs.

5,000 Students Affected by NTT Earthquake Granted One-Semester Tuition Fee Waiver

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology has announced a one-semester tuition fee (UKT) waiver for 5,000 university students affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. Minister Brian Yuliarto stated that the policy aims to ensure the disaster does not disrupt students' educational continuity while their families recover. The ministry is also coordinating with local authorities and the National Disaster Management Agency to provide further assistance, including psychological support.

Video: Manhattan District, the New Face of Gading Serpong's Commercial Area

Paramount Land has officially opened the Hampton commercial area within Manhattan District, Paramount Gading Serpong, marking a significant milestone in the development of the region. The project is positioned not only as a property venture but as a destination for business, lifestyle, and culinary activities. JLL Indonesia views the development of commercial areas in buffer zones as dependent on infrastructure support, which is expected to drive sustained demand for property in the area.

Pelindo Panjang boosts worker fire preparedness

PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Persero) Regional 2 Panjang has conducted an emergency response awareness and drill exercise with local disaster and fire agencies to strengthen worker readiness for fire incidents. The state-owned port operator emphasised that continuous training is essential to ensure workers can act calmly and correctly during emergencies. The exercise covered evacuation procedures, use of fire extinguishers, and coordination with emergency response teams.

Legislator: Asset Forfeiture Bill must build national asset recovery system

House Commission XIII member Rieke Diah Pitaloka has urged that the Asset Forfeiture Bill establish a comprehensive national asset recovery system within an integrated criminal justice framework. She stressed that the bill must not create overlapping regimes with the Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code, and must uphold due process, human rights protections, and safeguards against abuse of power. Rieke also called for clear distinctions between state confiscated assets, victims' rights, and fiduciary funds, citing the ASABRI case as a normative evaluation point.

SEAFAST IPB: Food research opens opportunities to boost industry competitiveness

The Head of SEAFAST Center IPB, Puspo Edi Giriwono, has highlighted the role of food research in enhancing the competitiveness of Indonesia's food and beverage industry. He noted that research into raw material development can unlock alternative sources, improve resource efficiency, and support innovation aligned with market needs. The food and beverage sector grew 6.51 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026, driven by shifting consumer preferences towards healthier products.

NU's 35th Congress: Paintings of Founders Exhibited at Tambak Beras

An art exhibition featuring around 100 paintings of Nahdlatul Ulama's founders has been opened at the Bahrul Ulum Islamic boarding school in Jombang, East Java, as part of the organisation's 35th Congress. The display aims to help younger NU members recognise the faces and legacies of figures such as KH Hasyim Asy'ari and KH Abdul Wahab Hasbullah. Ten works, including a portrait of former president Gus Dur, are scheduled to be auctioned before the congress concludes.

Prabowo: Without NU and Muhammadiyah Support, I Could Not Have Become President

President Prabowo Subianto acknowledged the pivotal role of Nahdlatul Ulama and Muhammadiyah in his rise to the presidency during the opening of NU's 35th Congress in Jombang. He praised NU's patriotic legacy and described both organisations as national assets essential to his mandate as the people's representative. Prabowo also highlighted NU's consistent presence during national crises and its contribution to security, peace, and Indonesia's future.

KPK Searches Bogor Bappenda and BKPSDM Offices over Tax Incentive Corruption

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has searched two offices of the Bogor Regency Government as part of an investigation into alleged corruption involving deductions from local tax and retribution collection incentives. The searches at the Regional Revenue Management Agency (Bappenda) and the Civil Service and Human Resources Development Agency (BKPSDM) resulted in the seizure of relevant documents. The investigation follows an earlier phase on 20 August 2026 that had sparked rumours of a sting operation, which the KPK denied.