Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 27 August 2026

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China Has Entered a 'New World' Era, America Far Behind

China is pouring US$20 billion into AI and robotics as it races to dominate global manufacturing, with over two million robots now operating in its factories. Automation is seen as essential to offset a rapidly ageing and shrinking workforce, though it raises concerns about mass job losses among the 120 million still employed in manufacturing. While China leads in hardware, the US retains an edge in AI software, but Chinese start-ups like DeepSeek are closing the gap.

South Jakarta District Court to deliver Febrie Adriansyah rulings on Thursday and Friday afternoon

The South Jakarta District Court is set to issue rulings on two pre-trial motions filed by former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah. The motions challenge searches, seizures, and his designation as a suspect in corruption and money laundering cases linked to PT Asabri. The rulings are scheduled for Thursday and Friday at 4 p.m. local time.

Korlantas Holds Traffic Safety Festival in South Tangerang, Mobile SIM Service Available

The Indonesian National Police Traffic Corps (Korlantas Polri) held a Traffic Safety Festival at the Traffic Education Centre in South Tangerang, attended by online motorcycle taxi drivers from across Greater Jakarta. The event featured entertainment, safety education, and a mobile driving licence (SIM) renewal service. Senior traffic police officials attended, underscoring the police's focus on road safety for commercial ride-hailing drivers.

Denpasar Prosecutor's Office Destroys Thousands of Slops of Cigarettes Without Excise Stamps

The Denpasar District Prosecutor's Office has destroyed thousands of slops of cigarettes lacking excise stamps, seized from two criminal cases. The destruction followed completion of legal and administrative processes, including approval from the Attorney General and the Minister of Finance. The move aims to prevent illicit tobacco products from re-entering circulation.

Polda Metro Jaya Examines 63 People over Anarchist Network at DPR Protest

Jakarta police are investigating 63 individuals suspected of links to an anarchist network planning to disrupt a protest at the DPR/MPR complex. The suspects are divided into financing and operational clusters, with charges including assault, arson, and data manipulation. Police say the group used the Asset Forfeiture Bill as a rallying issue and spread provocative digital flyers to recruit members.

Sarjito Officially Approved by DPR as Head of OJK Mineral and Commodity Exchange

The House of Representatives has formally approved Sarjito as Chief Executive of the Mineral and Strategic Commodity Exchange (BMKS) at the Financial Services Authority (OJK) for the 2026-2031 period. Sarjito was the sole candidate proposed by President Prabowo Subianto. The appointment follows a fit and proper test conducted by Commission XI of the DPR.

11 Couples Wed with Dowry of Clean Water, Donated After Vows

Eleven couples in Bantul, Yogyakarta, took part in a mass wedding where each groom's dowry was a 5,000-litre tank of clean water, with the ceremonies held atop water tanker lorries. The water was subsequently donated to communities affected by drought in the region. Officials hope the initiative will inspire other couples to combine marriage with charitable giving during the dry season.

After the fire, government to immediately reconstruct Sade Traditional Village

The West Nusa Tenggara provincial government and Central Lombok regency administration will soon reconstruct Sade Traditional Village following a fire. The new design will include fire disaster mitigation facilities to ensure the safety and comfort of the tourist destination.

Sleman 'Klitih' Perpetrator Used Airsoft Gun and Recorded Attack for Content

Police in Sleman have arrested one of four suspects involved in a random shooting of a motorcyclist on Jalan Laksda Adisucipto. The detained man, identified as IRS, is believed to be the shooter, while the group recorded the attack to create content for their peers. Authorities are still pursuing the remaining three suspects and investigating the motive, which the arrested suspect claims stemmed from family problems.

South Tangerang DPRD Highlights Land Conflict Between TK-SD Foundation and UIN in Pamulang

The South Tangerang Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) has intervened in a months-long dispute over the management of TK Islam Pembangunan and SD Islam Pembangunan in Pamulang, involving the Syarif Hidayatullah Foundation and UIN Jakarta. The conflict, which concerns asset ownership, lease arrangements, and foundation leadership changes, has disrupted teaching activities and forced students to shift temporarily to online learning. Lawmakers have prioritised safeguarding the continuity of education while deferring legal matters to the courts.

UIII graduates first 34 doctoral students from 22 countries

Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia (UIII) has marked a historic milestone by graduating its first cohort of 34 doctoral students from 22 countries. The rector emphasised that the graduates are expected to become future thinkers, researchers, and leaders who contribute new ideas to the world. The university also highlighted its role as a space for intercultural dialogue and Indonesia's contribution to global civilisation.

Only One Toilet: Nagekeo Earthquake Refugees Use Roadside for Sanitation

Around 70 earthquake victims in Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, are facing severe shortages of sanitation facilities, with only one toilet available at their evacuation site. Refugees have been forced to bathe and relieve themselves along the Trans Mbay-Ende highway, while also lacking blankets, masks, and adequate tents. Residents are urging the government to provide emergency sanitation facilities and better shelter, particularly for children and infants.

US to Supply South Korea with Tactical Missiles, North Korea Furious

North Korea has condemned the United States' decision to sell tactical missiles to South Korea and fund human rights monitoring programmes, vowing a strong response. Pyongyang views the moves as hostile acts that threaten regional security and seek to destabilise its social system. The development comes despite recent overtures by President Donald Trump towards North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

1,300 philatelic frames exhibited in Bandung

The Bandung 2026 Asian International Stamp Exhibition has opened at Graha Pos Indonesia, featuring more than 1,300 frames and 300 titles from 22 Asian countries. Organised by the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs, Pos Indonesia, and the Indonesian Philatelic Exhibitors Association, the event aims to promote philately as a collection with economic value and as a communication tool.

Puan Maharani Responds to PDIP Cadre Named Suspect in Intimidation Case of Late Dr Icha

House Speaker and PDIP executive Puan Maharani has said she respects the legal process after party cadre Veronika Lake was named a suspect in the intimidation case involving the late Dr Eliza Princila Ututi Pakaenoni. Police have named three East Nusa Tenggara regional legislators as suspects, while their lawyer says he has not yet received official notification.

7 Indicators of the Indonesian Economy Ahead of Late August: Is It Still Doing Well?

As August 2026 draws to a close, Indonesia's economy continues to grow but faces mounting pressures. GDP growth slowed to 5.29% year-on-year in the second quarter, while inflation eased to 2.88% in July. However, consumer confidence has dipped, retail sales remain weak, and the trade balance has slipped into deficit for two consecutive months.

Grim Outlook for Poultry Sector Amid Integrated Chicken Downstreaming Programme

Indonesia's poultry sector is facing a downturn, with the number of legally registered poultry companies falling by 6.33 percent in 2025 and egg production dropping sharply, even as the national free nutritious meals programme expands. Rising feed costs and falling egg prices are squeezing farmers, while the government's Integrated Chicken Downstreaming programme, launched in East Java and South Sulawesi, is seen as a potential catalyst for recovery.

Why the JCI Rose More Than 1% Amid Today's Protests

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) rebounded by 1.39% to 6,494.55 on Thursday, recovering from a previous sharp decline despite ongoing protests at the House of Representatives. Broad-based gains across all sectors and support from large-cap stocks drove the rally, while foreign investors recorded a net sell of Rp264.31 billion.

Palestine Urges UN Security Council to Protect UNRWA Facilities in Jerusalem

The Palestinian National Authority has called on the UN Security Council to take concrete action to halt Israeli attacks on UN facilities in Jerusalem. The appeal follows the forced evacuation of an UNRWA training centre in northern Jerusalem, attended by Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir. Palestinian officials condemned the move as a serious breach of international law and a dangerous escalation amid ongoing conflict in Gaza and rising tensions in the West Bank.

Berdikari Pondasi (BDKR) Added to High Shareholding Concentration List

The Indonesia Stock Exchange has added PT Berdikari Pondasi Perkasa Tbk (BDKR) to its High Shareholding Concentration (HSC) list, with 94.95% of shares held by concentrated entities. The total number of HSC-listed companies has risen to 59 since the list was first published in April 2026. The exchange publishes the list to improve transparency and investor protection, as highly concentrated share ownership carries greater price and liquidity risks.

Opening Wider Access to Global Investors, EMAS Has Potential to Enter GDX

PT Merdeka Gold Resources Tbk (EMAS) is seen as having a strong chance of being included in the VanEck Gold Miners ETF (GDX) ahead of the September 2026 index review. The company's growing market capitalisation, free float, trading liquidity, and transformation into a gold producer support its candidacy. Inclusion could trigger portfolio adjustments by index-tracking funds and broaden EMAS's international investor base.

ANRI opens opportunities for history learning for students in the form of games

The National Archives of Indonesia (ANRI) is exploring digital formats, including games, to make history learning more engaging for students. The initiative aims to adapt historical education to modern technology habits, with content tailored to different age groups from early childhood to senior high school. ANRI plans to collaborate with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education and history teachers to develop interactive learning models based on archival materials.

Targeting Healthcare Business, LLV and Spiral Ventures Invest in Bumame and TWO Inc

Living Lab Ventures and Spiral Ventures have invested in Indonesian healthcare firm Bumame and Japanese food-tech company TWO Inc. through their Japan Thematic Fund. The investment aims to foster cross-border innovation between Japan and Indonesia, particularly in the healthcare and wellness sectors. It is also linked to the development of the D-HUB Special Economic Zone in BSD City.

Reaching Residents Not Yet Touched by Aid, Dompet Dhuafa Goes to Bawang Merah Hamlet

Dompet Dhuafa has distributed food packages and medical services to residents of Bawang Merah Hamlet in East Manggarai, an area that had received little humanitarian assistance following an earthquake. The charity focused on the remote, hilly region where around 100 people benefited from the aid. The disaster has displaced over 179,000 people, with Dompet Dhuafa's services reaching more than 10,000 individuals so far.

Ministry prepares system to produce Nobel Prize-winning scientists

Indonesia's Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology is developing a structured talent management system to nurture world-class researchers capable of winning the Nobel Prize. The initiative aligns with Presidential Regulation No. 108 of 2024 on the Grand Design for National Talent Management. The ministry is focusing on facilitating scientific publications, providing research incentives, and supporting science techno parks to ensure research delivers tangible benefits to society.

Trade Minister: Mineral Exchange commodity list awaits OJK determination

Trade Minister Budi Santoso has stated that the list of strategic commodities to be traded on the new Mineral and Strategic Commodities Exchange (BMKS) is still awaiting determination by the Financial Services Authority (OJK). The Ministry of Trade, through Bappebti, is currently involved in preparations for the exchange alongside OJK and other stakeholders. It remains unclear whether palm oil will migrate to the new exchange or remain on the Indonesia Commodity and Derivatives Exchange (ICDX).

Government Targets Creation of 3.49 Million New Jobs in 2027

The Indonesian government aims to create between 2.57 million and 3.49 million new jobs in 2027, according to the 2027 State Budget Draft (RAPBN). Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa presented the target to the House Budget Committee, alongside other development goals including economic growth of 5.8–6.5 percent and a reduction in open unemployment to 4.30–4.87 percent.

BPKH distributes humanitarian aid for NTT earthquake victims

The Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) has begun distributing humanitarian aid to communities affected by disasters in several districts of East Nusa Tenggara. The assistance, funded through the Ummah Endowment Fund (DAU), includes food, clean water, hygiene supplies, temporary shelter, and health services. BPKH is collaborating with three partner organisations to ensure aid reaches affected areas effectively.

RI boosts digital ecosystem to support 8 percent economic growth

Indonesia is strengthening its digital ecosystem through connectivity, infrastructure financing, talent development, and digital literacy programmes to support its target of 8 percent economic growth. The digital economy is projected to reach around US$130 billion annually, with the ICT sector having grown 8 percent over the past 10-15 years. The government is also using regulation to correct market failures and promote market equality through data ecosystem development.

Many Petrol Stations in Bali Run Out of Pertalite, Vehicle Queues Spill onto Roads

Motorists across Bali have reported widespread shortages of Pertalite fuel, causing long queues at several petrol stations in Denpasar and Badung. Some drivers were forced to purchase the more expensive Pertamax after finding Pertalite stocks depleted, while others expressed frustration over the lack of notice before queuing. Residents are urging smoother distribution and clearer communication from station operators.

Amid Protests, Business Leader Reveals Current Conditions; Malls Prepare Special SOP

Indonesian Shopping Centre Management Association (APPBI) chairman Alphonzus Widjaja confirmed that no malls have closed despite ongoing demonstrations near the DPR/MPR building in Jakarta. Shopping centres have prepared special standard operating procedures to ensure visitor safety and comfort, though these have not yet been activated. Some malls in satellite cities like Bodetabek may see increased footfall as visitors avoid protest areas.

Indonesia eyes deeper cocoa, palm value chain ties with Malaysia, PNG

Indonesia is seeking stronger regional cooperation with Malaysia and Papua New Guinea to develop sustainable value chains for palm oil and cocoa, with a focus on supporting smallholder farmers. The Regional Learning Forum on Sustainable Commodities aims to turn shared best practices into concrete policies involving government, private enterprises, and farmers. The initiative is part of Indonesia's FOLUR project, supported by the Global Environment Facility and UNDP, and includes business matching to attract investment in processing infrastructure and farmer capacity building.

30 Australians missing in flash floods in China-Nepal

More than 30 Australian nationals have been reported missing following devastating floods and mudslides in Nepal near the China-Nepal border. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the figure, while the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is working to verify the whereabouts and safety of Australians in the affected area. Chinese state media reported that the number of missing has risen to 558, including 260 foreign nationals.

House Budget Committee Chair Highlights Macro Indicator Targets in 2027 State Budget Bill

The House of Representatives' Budget Committee has raised concerns over several macro indicator targets in the 2027 State Budget Bill, including economic growth, the Gini ratio, and unemployment figures. Committee chair Said Abdullah stressed that every state spending programme must have clear objectives and measurable impacts, while also urging accurate data validation to ensure budget interventions are well targeted. The committee also called for fiscal discipline to reduce the deficit and improve Indonesia's debt service ratio.

Dasco Agrees to Resign if Asset Forfeiture Bill Not Completed

Three deputy speakers of Indonesia's House of Representatives have signed a written pledge to resign from their positions and parliamentary seats if the Asset Forfeiture Bill is not passed by 15 December 2026. The commitment was made during an audience with protesters from the Pati United Community Alliance at the parliament complex in Jakarta. The move signals mounting public pressure on lawmakers to expedite the long-delayed legislation.

President Prabowo Opens 35th NU Congress in Jombang

President Prabowo Subianto travelled to Jombang, East Java, to officially open the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress. Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya said the visit reflects the government's high appreciation for NU's century-long contribution to national stability and development. The President was accompanied by several senior ministers.

Indonesia Still Exports Gas, Here Are the Figures

Indonesia's natural gas exports reached 1,352.9 BBTUD as of June 2026, comprising LNG and pipeline gas, according to the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources. Domestic utilisation accounted for 74.55% of total gas production, with the industrial sector being the largest domestic consumer. The government aims to further increase domestic gas usage, particularly in the small-scale gas network segment.

DPR Opens Door for AMPB to Convey Aspirations on Asset Forfeiture Bill via Commission III

The House of Representatives (DPR) has facilitated the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB) to present its input on the Asset Forfeiture Bill through a public hearing with Commission III. Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad confirmed that the DPR aims to pass the bill by 15 December 2026 at the latest. The bill is considered a crucial instrument in combating corruption, aligning with President Prabowo Subianto's priority agenda.

Riau Police Chief Urges Companies to Act as First Responders in Tackling Forest and Land Fires

Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan has called on companies holding concession areas in the province to take the lead as first responders in preventing and tackling forest and land fires. Speaking at a coordination meeting in Pekanbaru, he stressed that fire management requires collaboration across all sectors, including the military, police, local government, businesses, academics, and communities. The police chief also noted a decline in hotspots across Riau, but warned against complacency given forecasts of continued hot weather in September.

When Water Becomes Scarce, It Is Time to Learn to Save

As Indonesia faces a drier-than-normal dry season, with over 70 percent of the country already in drought conditions, the article argues that water scarcity is not merely a natural phenomenon but also a management problem. It calls for turning public knowledge about water conservation into everyday behaviour through consistent, practical messaging.

Police Inspector School Class 56 Holds Porismas to Strengthen Community Synergy

Students of the Police Inspector School (SIP) Class 56 at Setukpa Lemdiklat Polri organised the Student and Community Integration Sports Week (PORISMAS) in Sukabumi. The event aims to build closer ties between future police officers and local residents through volleyball, while also developing the students' managerial and leadership skills. Organisers have barred professional and former national team athletes to ensure the tournament focuses on discovering new regional talent.

Polda Metro Jaya examines 63 people over alleged anarchist network actions

Polda Metro Jaya has examined 63 individuals suspected of links to an anarchist network planning to exploit a public demonstration near the DPR/MPR building in Jakarta. The suspects are divided into financing and operational clusters, with investigators probing alleged arson, public order offences, assault, and data manipulation. Police say the group consolidated around the Asset Forfeiture Bill, spreading provocative narratives and collecting donations ahead of the planned action.

Thousands of Participants Flock to Jombang for the 35th NU Congress

Thousands of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) members from across Indonesia have begun arriving at the Bahrul Ulum Islamic Boarding School in Jombang, East Java, for the organisation's 35th Congress. Security is being managed by Banser personnel, with participants undergoing registration and identity verification. President Prabowo Subianto is confirmed to attend to deliver remarks and officiate the event.

EV Sales Strong and Retailers Still Optimistic, Airlangga Denies Indonesian Economy Is Sluggish

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has rejected claims that the Indonesian economy is slowing, citing 5.45 percent growth in the first half of 2026. He pointed to an 80 percent rise in electric vehicle sales and consumer confidence above 100 as evidence of resilience. The government is maintaining purchasing power through rice aid and income tax incentives until the end of 2026.

Pertalite Consumption Surges After Pertamax Price Hike

Indonesia's downstream oil and gas regulator BPH Migas has reported a 12.92 percent rise in Pertalite consumption in July 2026, following the June increase in non-subsidised Pertamax fuel prices. The shift indicates consumers are moving from Pertamax to the subsidised Pertalite. A slight decline in August was attributed to a downward correction in Pertamax prices.

List of 11 Banks Closed Up to August 2026

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has revoked the business licences of eleven rural banks (BPR) so far this year, with the most recent closure in Bekasi on 19 August 2026. The Indonesia Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) will handle customer claims and bank obligations through liquidation teams. Directors, commissioners and shareholders of the closed banks are barred from taking legal action over assets and liabilities without written LPS approval.

US plans phased return of diplomats to Middle East

The Trump administration is preparing to redeploy diplomats to several Middle East embassies evacuated before and during the US-Israel war against Iran, with some personnel potentially returning as early as this week. The move signals Washington's assessment that a full-scale conflict is unlikely to resume in the near term, even as the US threatens new economic sanctions against Iran.

Guterres urges UN peace operations to adapt to new global realities

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for a paradigm shift in UN peace operations, arguing they must adapt to dramatic new realities in the global security landscape. He highlighted changing geopolitical dynamics, the resurgence of interstate conflict, and increasingly protracted internal conflicts as key drivers. Guterres urged greater emphasis on preventive diplomacy, peacebuilding, and more agile, cost-effective operations.

BKHIT Kepri detains undocumented agricultural commodities in Natuna

The Kepri Animal, Fish and Plant Quarantine Agency has temporarily detained a shipment of agricultural and food commodities entering Natuna Regency because they lacked the required quarantine documents. The goods, including garlic, shallots, dried chillies and fruit, were discovered during a joint inspection at Penagi Port. If owners fail to produce valid documentation within three days, the commodities will be returned to their origin or destroyed.

DPR Budget Committee Grills Government Over Numerous Typos in 2027 State Budget Draft

The House of Representatives' Budget Committee (Banggar) has criticised the government over multiple numerical errors and incomplete data in the 2027 State Budget Draft (RAPBN 2027). Discrepancies include differing growth figures and a doubled allocation for the Free Nutritious Meals programme. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa acknowledged the errors and pledged to make corrections during the ongoing discussions.