Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 27 August 2026

Showing 1,051-1,100 of 1,659 articles

27 August Protest at DPR: Monitor Crowd and Traffic Situation via Online CCTV

A large-scale demonstration took place in front of the DPR/MPR building in Central Jakarta, with 18,504 joint TNI-Polri personnel deployed across six security zones. Members of the public can monitor the situation remotely through online CCTV feeds, including cameras aimed at the DPR/MPR complex and the Jakarta Smart City traffic monitoring service. Police have also prepared situational traffic diversions should congestion occur around the protest area.

Good News! Experts Agree Indonesia's Economy Is Safe for the Next 6 Months

A survey by the Indonesian Economists Association (ISEI) shows that economists remain optimistic about Indonesia's economic growth in the second half of 2026, with a perception index of 62.3. This optimism is supported by confidence in export performance, though concerns remain over unemployment and inflation. The findings contrast with broader public sentiment, which is more negative about current economic conditions.

KPK examines suspect in rubber processing procurement case as witness

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has examined Yudi Wahyudin, a suspect in an alleged corruption case involving the procurement of rubber processing facilities at the Ministry of Agriculture for the 2021–2023 fiscal years. Yudi, who served as a commitment-making official at the ministry, was questioned as a witness at the KPK's Merah Putih Building in Jakarta. The KPK is also investigating potential links between this case and money laundering allegations against former Agriculture Minister Syahrul Yasin Limpo.

Indonesia Successfully Performs First Open Fetal Surgery for Congenital Disorder

Indonesia has achieved a medical milestone with its first successful open fetal surgery, performed at RSAB Harapan Kita to treat myelomeningocele, a severe form of spina bifida. The procedure was carried out by a multidisciplinary Indonesian team in collaboration with specialists from Mater Mothers' Hospital in Brisbane, Australia. Health officials hailed the achievement as proof that domestic medical expertise and technology can now handle procedures previously only available abroad.

Indonesia, RMIT University bolster industry-relevant education

Indonesia's education ministry and RMIT University are collaborating to align tertiary education with industry needs, aiming to produce adaptive graduates with strong communication and problem-solving skills. The initiative supports the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision by fostering stronger links between government, educational institutions, and businesses, with a particular focus on vocational education and work-integrated learning.

Strengthening Sovereignty: BIN Chief Urges Espionage Countermeasures Law

The head of Indonesia's State Intelligence Agency has called for a dedicated law to counter espionage and foreign intervention, citing the growing grey-zone threats in global geopolitics. Speaking at a national seminar hosted by the University of Indonesia, he stressed that openness must be balanced with vigilance and firm protection of national interests. The proposed legislation is intended to strengthen counterintelligence and inter-agency coordination while preserving democracy and civil liberties.

Puan: DPR building open to receiving public aspirations

House Speaker Puan Maharani has affirmed that the Indonesian parliament building is open to receiving public aspirations, provided that established procedures are followed. Her remarks came as representatives of the Pati United Community Alliance were permitted to observe a plenary session, during which the DPR reiterated its commitment to pass the Asset Forfeiture Bill by 15 December 2026.

Nagekeo Evacuees Live in the Shadow of the Earthquake

Residents of three villages in Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, remain in evacuation shelters nearly two weeks after a magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck Flores Island. Many survivors, including widowed mother Siti Suliati, are too traumatised by the tremors and rising sea water to return to their damaged homes. The disaster has also halted the livelihoods of local fishing and farming communities.

Ministry of Communication and Digital accelerates digital ecosystem to drive 8 percent economic growth

Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital is accelerating digital ecosystem development to help the economy grow by 8 percent annually. The strategy focuses on strengthening connectivity, capital for technology firms, and developing over nine million digital talents. Indonesia's digital economy is projected to be worth around 130 billion US dollars per year.

Police Seize Airsoft Guns and Petrol from 65 People Suspected of Hijacking DPR Protest

Jakarta Metropolitan Police have seized weapons and materials from 65 individuals suspected of planning to hijack a demonstration outside the DPR/MPR building. The confiscated items included airsoft guns, sharp weapons, petrol, and materials for making Molotov cocktails. Ten of the detained individuals are being investigated as alleged recruiters and financiers of the planned action.

170 Semeru climbers evacuated safely amid forest fire

All 170 climbers evacuated from Mount Semeru in East Java due to a forest fire in the Ranu Kembang block are confirmed safe. The Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park (TNBTS) has closed all climbing routes until further notice to support fire control and visitor evacuation efforts.

BNPB calls for well-stocked disaster relief warehouses nationwide

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has urged every district and city to maintain buffer stocks of essential relief supplies, citing the recent Flores earthquake as evidence of inadequate local preparedness. BNPB chief Suharyanto estimates each region needs between Rp5 billion and Rp10 billion to stock warehouses with staples, blankets, tents, and mattresses. President Prabowo Subianto welcomed the proposal and indicated plans to help regional governments establish disaster supply warehouses.

KPK summons two subsection heads of Denpasar Immigration Office as witnesses

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned two subsection heads from the Denpasar Immigration Office as witnesses in an alleged extortion case involving foreign nationals' residence permits. The investigation stems from a sting operation that led to the naming of eight suspects, including former Immigration Director General Silmy Karim. The suspects are alleged to have gained around Rp145.5 billion from the scheme between 2022 and 2026.

DPKUKM: Rice price increases in Banyumas still sporadic

The Banyumas Trade, Cooperatives and SMEs Office says the rise in medium-quality bulk rice prices in several local markets remains sporadic, ranging from Rp500 to Rp1,000 per kilogram. The increase is attributed to thinning trader stocks and farmers withholding grain ahead of the El Niño-influenced dry season. Officials assure that Bulog rice stocks and supply stabilisation programmes remain sufficient.

History That Always Repeats Itself

An opinion piece argues that Indonesians remain disconnected from their own history, allowing patterns of injustice and authoritarian behaviour to persist in the present day. The author contends that genuine independence requires the courage to think and speak freely, rather than merely participating in annual ceremonial celebrations.

Latest List of Indonesia's 10 Largest Oil Producers

Indonesia's national oil, condensate, and natural gas liquid production reached 578,156 barrels per day by 31 July 2026, only 94.8% of the 610,000 bpd target set in the 2026 state budget. ExxonMobil Cepu and Pertamina Hulu Rokan remain the country's largest producers despite both falling significantly short of their targets due to reservoir issues and infrastructure disruptions. SKK Migas highlighted that the two companies together account for 54,500 bpd of the production shortfall.

DPR commits to passing Asset Forfeiture Bill on 15 December

The leadership of Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) has signed a written commitment to pass the Asset Forfeiture Bill by 15 December 2026. The pledge was made during a meeting with representatives of the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB), with Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad stating he would resign if the deadline is not met. The bill is seen as a key instrument in addressing public concerns over corruption.

Polda Metro Arrests 65 People Ahead of Aspiration Rally at DPR

Polda Metro Jaya has arrested 65 people ahead of a public rally at the DPR/MPR complex in Jakarta, citing preventive measures against potential public order disturbances. The arrests were made through both digital and conventional investigations, with police emphasising they are not restricting freedom of expression but ensuring public safety.

Integrated platform delivers more efficient recruitment process

Goodtalenta has launched an integrated recruitment platform designed to streamline candidate sourcing and selection for companies. The platform consolidates recruitment workflows into a single ecosystem, using automation and AI to reduce administrative burden and costs. It aims to support business growth by enabling faster, more measurable and structured hiring processes.

House Commission XI Chairman Speaks Out on Botok Pati Account Freezing

Mukhamad Misbakhun, Chairman of House Commission XI, has defended the temporary freezing of a Bank Mandiri account belonging to Pati resident Supriyanto alias Botok, stating it was carried out for security purposes and was legally justified. He argued that such measures actually bolster public trust by demonstrating that the state is working to prevent banking institutions from being misused. The account has since been reactivated after police completed their clarification regarding the funds collected.

Australian Tourist Caught in Lewd Act in Berawa Resident's Yard to Be Deported

An Australian man is to be deported from Bali after being caught engaging in a lewd act in a resident's yard in Berawa, Badung. Police and immigration authorities confirmed the man will not face criminal detention as the alleged offence carries a penalty of under five years' imprisonment and the property owner has agreed not to pursue the case further. The identity of the woman involved remains under investigation.

Facts about the devastating floods and landslides in Nepal

At least 162 people have died in Nepal after flash floods and landslides struck on Wednesday, making it the country's deadliest disaster since the 2015 earthquake. The floods have destroyed homes, roads, bridges, and hydropower infrastructure along the Nepal-China border, with hundreds still missing, including foreign nationals. Indonesian authorities are working to confirm the safety of citizens in the affected areas.

Video: Uncovering Kimia Farma's Financial Problems Due to Excessive Investment

BPI Danantara's Chief Operating Officer Dony Oskaria has outlined the state-owned enterprise reform strategy, assuring that streamlining efforts will not result in layoffs. The restructuring of pharmaceutical SOEs under Bio Farma has addressed deep financial issues at Kimia Farma caused by unmeasured investment in large factories with low utilisation. Danantara claims the reforms have already returned Kimia Farma to profitability, while Indofarma continues to face severe difficulties including bankruptcy proceedings for its subsidiary.

7 New Facts About the Nepal-Tibet Flash Floods: 165 Dead, 1,000 Missing

Catastrophic flash floods along the Nepal-Tibet border have killed at least 165 people and left around 1,000 missing, with the disaster triggered by a massive glacier and rock avalanche rather than an earthquake. The floods have destroyed the Gyirong port, which handles a third of China-Nepal trade worth over US$2 billion annually, threatening significant economic disruption. International rescue efforts are under way amid extremely difficult terrain, with the United States pledging US$500,000 in emergency humanitarian assistance.

Tukad Unda Tourism Spot Abandoned, Rotten Gazebos Overgrown with Shrubs

A once-popular riverside tourism spot along the Tukad Unda in Klungkung, Bali, has fallen into disrepair after the COVID-19 pandemic halted visitor numbers. Local community-built facilities, including gazebos and photo spots, are now rotting and overgrown, with no maintenance funds available. The Klungkung Tourism Office has said it is open to proposals from residents for restoration, subject to budget availability.

KPK Suspects Bengkulu City Official Received House, Car, Luxury Apartment

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) suspects an official in Bengkulu City received luxury assets, including a house, car, and apartment, from a private party identified as Eno Bowo Susilo. The allegation emerged during an examination of Susilo as a witness in a case that developed from a bribery investigation in Rejang Lebong Regency. The KPK has clarified that the Head of Bengkulu City's Public Works and Spatial Planning Agency and a city council member were not summoned for questioning.

IRGC: Strait of Hormuz will not be opened if US rejects Iran's conditions

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has warned that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed unless the United States accepts Tehran's conditions. The IRGC spokesman said the strategic waterway is under Iranian control and no vessels may pass without Iranian permission. The statement follows a memorandum of understanding signed in June between Washington and Tehran, with negotiations now stalled amid renewed escalation.

Coordinating Ministry for Food: Agroforestry strengthens cocoa production resilience

Indonesia's Coordinating Ministry for Food has identified agroforestry as a key strategy to bolster cocoa production resilience against climate change. The approach integrates trees and other plants into cocoa landscapes to stabilise growing conditions, protect soil and water functions, and support farmer livelihoods. Officials stress that agroforestry should be viewed as a strategic link between productivity, farmer resilience, and landscape sustainability rather than merely an environmental practice.

Corn Processing Plant Secures Customs Facility, Investment Projected to Reach Rp 1.2 Trillion

PT Arena Agro Andalan, a corn processing company in Wonogiri, Central Java, has received a KITE exemption facility from the Customs Office, supporting its export-oriented operations. The company's investment is projected to rise from Rp 1 trillion in 2026 to Rp 1.2 trillion by 2030, with employment expected to grow from 950 to 1,150 workers. The facility is expected to enhance production efficiency and competitiveness in international markets.

Police Use Humanist, Communicative Approach to Serve Crowds at DPR

Central Jakarta Metro Police have implemented a humanist and communicative service approach to manage public demonstrations around the DPR/MPR complex. The force has divided the area into six service zones to ensure orderly expression of aspirations while minimising disruption to other public activities.

Jember Regent Allocates Rp91.1 Billion for Cinta Bergema Scholarship

The Jember Regency Government has committed Rp91.1 billion to its Cinta Bergema scholarship programme for 2025 and 2026. More than 11,000 students have benefited so far, exceeding half of the regional medium-term development plan target of 20,000 recipients. Officials emphasised the programme's transparency and accountability in supporting higher education access for local youth.

Demonstration at DPR Leaves Tugu Tani Area Deserted, Restaurant Parking Lots Empty

A demonstration outside the House of Representatives (DPR) in Jakarta has significantly reduced activity in the nearby Tugu Tani area, with normally busy lunchtime traffic and restaurant parking lots left largely empty. Parking attendants and food vendors reported a sharp drop in customers and income as office workers stayed home under work-from-home policies. The protest involved student groups and community organisations voicing demands related to government policies, the economy, and democracy.

DPR member optimistic Pacitan can become incentive travel destination

Member of Commission VII of the Indonesian House of Representatives Novita Hardini has urged Pacitan Regency to develop its natural and village tourism assets into a national-class incentive travel destination. Speaking at a workshop in Pacitan, she highlighted the need to shift from selling individual attractions to offering integrated experiences that encourage longer stays and higher spending. She proposed four main agendas including ready-made tour packages, improved service quality, stronger collaboration, and a promotional strategy focused on selling experiences rather than just scenery.

Purbaya responds to DPR RI factions' views on 2027 State Budget Draft

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has addressed parliamentary factions' feedback on the 2027 State Budget Draft, affirming its design to support national development amid global economic uncertainty. He outlined planned spending on education, health, social protection and housing, while detailing revenue strategies including tax system improvements and non-tax revenue diversification. The DPR agreed to proceed with further deliberation of the budget bill, which targets 6 percent economic growth and reduced poverty.

Amid Pertalite Restriction and DTSEN Debate, Putri Zulkifli Hasan Speaks Out

Deputy Chair of House Commission XII Putri Zulkifli Hasan has called for urgent improvements to Indonesia's National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) before any fuel subsidy restrictions are implemented. She highlighted widespread data inaccuracies, including minimum-wage workers and low-income households being misclassified as high-income deciles. Putri warned that flawed data could also lead to the wrongful revocation of social assistance for vulnerable citizens.

Harbolnas 2026 Transactions Targeted to Reach Rp 40 Trillion, Airlangga: To Support 6 Percent Economic Growth

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has set a target of Rp 40 trillion in transactions for the 2026 National Online Shopping Day (Harbolnas), a 10 percent increase from last year's Rp 36.4 trillion. The event, scheduled for 10–16 December 2026, is expected to help drive national economic growth to 6 percent in the fourth quarter. Trade Minister Budi Santoso noted that this year's Harbolnas will expand beyond marketplaces to include online travel agents, ride-hailing, and social commerce platforms.

Over 21,000 Kia EV9s recalled due to airbag-related issue

The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has announced a recall of 21,290 Kia EV9 vehicles from model years 2025 and 2026 due to a sensor airbag hose defect that could fail to deactivate the front passenger airbag when a child is seated. Approximately 6 per cent of the recalled vehicles are estimated to have the fault, which stems from improper hose routing by a supplier. Owners will be notified in mid-October 2026 and asked to have the component inspected and replaced at authorised workshops.

Botok Pati Responds After Hearing DPR Explanation on Asset Forfeiture Bill

Activist Supriyono alias Botok from the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB) reacted cautiously to the House of Representatives' target to complete deliberation of the Asset Forfeiture Bill by 15 December 2026. Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad confirmed the deadline was agreed in a plenary session and pledged to hold further public hearings. The activists vowed to continue protesting until corruptors face severe punishment and Indonesia is free from corruption.

Video: US Grapples with Debt

The United States' debt has surpassed US$40 trillion, prompting the government to buy back its own bonds to curb rising Treasury yields. Higher yields increase the cost of servicing US debt, but the move risks a clash of interests with the Federal Reserve, which must still keep inflation in check.

Pertamina Awaits Government Decision on Pertalite Consumption Restrictions

State-owned energy firm Pertamina says it is awaiting government direction before implementing any restrictions on subsidised Pertalite fuel. The company is currently running a campaign promoting wise energy use while the government continues to refine its National Socio-Economic Single Data system. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa indicated the restriction policy for deciles 9 and 10 will proceed once the data system is deemed ready.

Helicopters, drones assist Nepal-China flood SAR operation

Flash flooding triggered by a Himalayan glacier collapse along the Nepal-China border has killed at least 162 people, with hundreds more missing, including foreign nationals. Nepalese authorities have deployed military and private helicopters alongside drones for search and rescue, while India, China and the World Bank are coordinating financial assistance. The government has declared three districts crisis zones for three months as damage to bridges and roads hampers relief efforts.

Pertamina Discovers Potential 1.4 Billion Barrel Oil Reserve in Jambi Merang Block

PT Pertamina has identified a potential giant oil discovery in the Jambi Merang Block, South Sumatra, with estimated reserves of up to 1.4 billion barrels. The company is currently securing the necessary permits to commence drilling this year, with the Padang Pancuran area as the primary development focus. This discovery is expected to significantly boost Indonesia's upstream oil and gas production.

Pythons, King Cobra, and Monitor Lizard Perish in Central Kalimantan Forest Fires

At least 26 wild animals have been found dead in the past two weeks as forest and land fires ravage East Kotawaringin Regency, Central Kalimantan. The carcasses, including reticulated pythons, a king cobra, and a monitor lizard, were discovered in burnt areas, highlighting the ecological toll of the fires. Local wildlife enthusiasts and officials have expressed concern over the loss of habitat and the threat to ecosystem balance.

Legislator urges DTSEN overhaul to ensure poor citizens' rights are met

House Commission IX member Edy Wuryanto has called on the government to urgently fix the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) system after complaints that citizens' decile rankings changed without clear economic justification, leading to loss of health coverage and social assistance. He stressed that data errors must not result in poor citizens losing their rights, and urged transparent criteria, public testing, and a robust complaint mechanism. The legislator also reminded the government that health is a basic need under Law No. 13 of 2011 on the Handling of the Poor.

KPK Summons Former Acting Regent of Muara Enim in Edison Bribery Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned former acting Regent of Muara Enim, Henky Putrawan, as a witness in the ongoing bribery investigation involving suspended Regent Edison. The case concerns alleged corruption in procurement and other receipts within the Muara Enim Regency Government for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. Edison is suspected of receiving Rp 500 million in bribes, with the KPK also investigating a separate alleged bribe of Rp 1.6 billion to BPK auditors to alter audit findings.

Doctor Tifa Charged with Defaming Jokowi over Fake Diploma Allegations

Tifauziah Tyassuma, known as Doctor Tifa, has been charged with defamation and electronic information offences over social media posts accusing former President Joko Widodo of using a fake diploma. Prosecutors allege the posts damaged Jokowi's personal reputation, despite Gadjah Mada University confirming he was a registered student and graduated. The charges include violations of the Criminal Code and the Electronic Information and Transactions Law.

Islamic Relief Indonesia distributes aid in Manggarai, NTT

Islamic Relief Indonesia has begun distributing humanitarian aid to earthquake-affected communities in Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, prioritising households with severe damage and vulnerable family members. The organisation is working with local government and community partners to reach isolated areas where landslides have disrupted access. Aid packages include food, tarpaulins, blankets and hygiene kits for 500 verified households.

Forest and land fires in Sampit Airport KKOP area receive extra handling

Forest and land fires within the Aviation Operational Safety Area (KKOP) of Haji Asan Sampit Airport in East Kotawaringin Regency, Central Kalimantan, are receiving heightened attention due to their potential to disrupt flight operations. Local authorities, including the Deputy Regent, military, police, and disaster agencies, have mobilised additional personnel and equipment to control the blazes. The fires, burning on dry peatland and scrub, pose particular challenges due to difficult access and the risk of underground spread.

Ministry invites Kuwait to cooperate on optimising village development

Indonesia's Ministry of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions has invited Kuwait to establish formal cooperation on village development. Minister Yandri Susanto highlighted the potential of Indonesia's 75,266 villages and the government's priority on building from the village level to reduce poverty. Kuwait's ambassador expressed interest in strengthening bilateral ties through official cooperation and private charitable initiatives.

Building Indonesia: Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Urges Young People to Take a Role in the Digital Era

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has called on Indonesian youth to actively participate in national development amid digital disruption and the rise of artificial intelligence. Speaking at UIN Syarif Hidayatullah, he emphasised that while AI is inevitable, it lacks conscience and values, so humans will always prevail if they master technology. He outlined three key competencies for young people: digital skills, thinking skills, and human skills.