Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 27 August 2026

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Thousands of Santri Deployed to Welcome President Prabowo at 35th NU Congress

Thousands of Islamic boarding school students have been mobilised to welcome President Prabowo Subianto at the opening of the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Congress in Jombang, East Java. Organisers have conducted opening simulations and are finalising preparations for what they describe as the first congress of NU's second century. The event is also expected to be attended by Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka.

Airlangga: Strengthening AI and data centres is the foundation of Indonesia's digital economy

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has emphasised that strengthening artificial intelligence, digital twin technology, and data centres is essential for building Indonesia's digital economy. He noted that AI could add USD 15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030, with Indonesia recording the strongest commercial AI momentum in ASEAN. The minister highlighted that Indonesia's digital economy is approaching USD 100 billion in gross merchandise value, supported by around 235 million internet users.

Market Watches Protests, IHSG Opens Lower

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened lower on Thursday as investors weighed global inflation data and domestic political risks. US PCE inflation came in slightly above expectations, reducing the likelihood of a Federal Reserve rate cut in September. Market participants are also monitoring planned demonstrations near the parliament building, which could pose a short-term risk to Indonesian equities.

Suspected Causes of the Deadly Flash Flood in Nepal That Killed Hundreds

A massive landslide and flash flood along the Nepal-Tibet border has killed at least 165 people, with hundreds more still missing. Scientists believe a large chunk of glacier broke away and fell into the valley below, generating tremors equivalent to a magnitude 5.2 earthquake. Climate change is suspected to have played a role, as melting glaciers and extreme rainfall make the region increasingly vulnerable to such disasters.

Revenue Plunges 13%, How Did Raffi-Nagita's RANS Entertainment's Profit Rise?

PT Rans Entertainmen Indonesia Tbk reported a 13.2% drop in first-half 2026 revenue to Rp149 billion, yet net profit rose 11% to Rp23.76 billion. The profit increase was driven by aggressive cost-cutting, with selling expenses nearly halved and general and administrative costs reduced. A 53.9% surge in production house, events, and ticketing revenue partially offset declines in social media content, brand ambassador, and IP-based product sales.

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs: No Blocking of Masses for 27 August Protest

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago has denied that security forces are blocking protesters from joining the 27 August demonstration outside the parliamentary complex in Jakarta. He confirmed that TNI personnel will assist police in securing the action, while police in Tangerang have deployed around 200 personnel to prevent students and other groups from travelling to the capital.

MHU ERT and Energy Ministry distribute aid for NTT earthquake victims

PT Multi Harapan Utama (MHU), through its Emergency Response Team, has joined forces with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources to deliver aid to earthquake victims in Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. The assistance includes temporary shelter, food, medical services, clean water, and psychosocial support across three villages. The company emphasised the importance of rapid and precise disaster response in meeting the immediate needs of affected communities.

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Confirms No Blocking of Protesters Heading to Jakarta

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago has confirmed that no roadblocks will be imposed on people travelling to Jakarta to express their views through demonstrations. He emphasised that the government is providing ample space for public expression in a safe, orderly and lawful manner. The Jakarta Metropolitan Police have deployed 4,274 personnel to secure key locations, including the DPR/MPR building.

Indonesia Still Has 1.57 Million Barrels of Oil in Storage Tanks

SKK Migas has revealed that Indonesia holds approximately 1.57 million barrels of oil ready for lifting, with a further 2.57 million barrels stored in tanks but frozen due to its heavy characteristics. The agency aims to sign a contract on Friday to liquefy the frozen stock, potentially adding up to 6,800 barrels per day to national lifting. This comes as the country pursues its 2026 lifting target of 610,000 barrels per day.

Rupiah weakens as short-term US bond yields rise

The rupiah opened weaker against the US dollar on Thursday, pressured by a stronger dollar index and rising short-term US Treasury yields amid expectations of a Federal Reserve rate hike later this year. Markets are also awaiting a speech by Fed Governor Kevin Warsh at the Jackson Hole Symposium, while domestic sentiment is being influenced by anti-corruption protests in Jakarta.

Antam Gold Price Falls Rp27,000 per Gram Today, Here Is the Full List

The price of Antam gold fell by Rp27,000 to Rp2,723,000 per gram on Thursday, with the buyback price also declining to Rp2,583,000 per gram. Transactions above Rp10 million are subject to a 1.5 percent income tax, while gold purchases incur a 0.25 percent tax. The article provides a complete price list for gold bars ranging from 0.5 grams to 1,000 grams.

Ensuring National Road Connectivity in Flores Island is Restored, Minister Dody: It is the Main Focus

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo has confirmed that national road connectivity in Flores Island, disrupted by a magnitude 7.7 earthquake, is being restored as the ministry's top priority. All national roads affected by landslides have been reopened, and the Wae Pesi Bridge in Manggarai Regency has been made functional for limited traffic, including fuel tankers. The ministry is also addressing water supply disruptions in affected areas.

Jakarta Information Commission pushes sub-districts to become informative public bodies

The Jakarta Information Commission is coaching sub-district offices to improve their information governance ahead of the 2026 Public Information Openness Evaluation and Monitoring. The initiative aims to build sustainable transparency systems rather than merely chasing assessment scores. Officials stressed that proper documentation and standard operating procedures are essential to ensure continuity of public information services despite staff turnover.

NEXT Indonesia says Singapore can be a reference for DSI

Analyst Sandy Pramuji of NEXT Indonesia Center suggests that Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) could model its trade oversight system on Singapore's approach, particularly Temasek's role in managing TradeNet. He argues that DSI should focus on integrating export data across ministries to detect misinvoicing and transfer pricing. Clear legal instruments are needed to define DSI's authority and coordination mechanisms.

Trump Urges Saudi Arabia to Normalise Ties with Israel for Nuclear Deal to Proceed

The Trump administration has sent a draft civil nuclear cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia to Congress for review, while insisting the deal will only take effect if Riyadh normalises relations with Israel. The 30-year agreement would allow US companies to export civilian nuclear technology, including AP1000 reactors worth tens of billions of dollars. The deal faces criticism over the absence of a ban on uranium enrichment and significant diplomatic obstacles to Saudi-Israeli normalisation.

Indonesia Builds Gas Network, Oleochemical Producer Adds Rp2.59 Trillion Investment in SEZ

PT Unilever Oleochemical Indonesia has inaugurated a US$155 million expansion at the Sei Mangkei Special Economic Zone in North Sumatra, bringing its cumulative investment there to Rp9.31 trillion. The facility produces fatty alcohol and has driven exports of Rp7.14 trillion in the first half of 2026, more than half of the zone's total exports. The government is supporting this growth with a Rp3.5 trillion Dumai-Sei Mangkei gas pipeline and renewable energy development to boost industrial competitiveness.

Ma'ruf Amin hopes NU Congress will be conducive and produce the best leader

Former Vice President Ma'ruf Amin has called for the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Congress in Jombang to proceed smoothly, honestly and free from money politics. He urged participants to vote according to their conscience and the guidance of senior clerics. The congress, scheduled for 27โ€“31 August 2026, is expected to be attended by President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka.

Group of 47, including 2 Singaporeans, missing in Nepal floods: Hiking company

Two Singaporeans are among 47 people reported missing after severe flooding struck Nepal's border region with Tibet, according to their trekking company. The group also includes nationals from Australia, Canada, Britain, the United States, and Russia, with seven Nepali guides among the missing. Search efforts are ongoing as authorities check hospitals for victims, while Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been contacted for further information.

Major Fire Destroys 60 Homes in Muara Angke, 720 Residents Affected

A large fire destroyed 60 houses in the Muara Angke area of North Jakarta on Wednesday evening, affecting 180 families comprising 720 people. No fatalities were reported, though two individuals sustained injuries. Police are investigating the cause of the blaze, which took firefighters more than five hours to extinguish.

KAI Implements B50 to Reduce Carbon Footprint of Rail Travel

Indonesian state railway operator KAI has begun using B50 biodiesel in all diesel-powered locomotives and generator cars from 1 July 2026, following its earlier adoption of B40 in January. The higher biodiesel blend is projected to cut emissions by around 9,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent over 55 days compared with B40. The move forms part of KAI's broader energy efficiency strategy and supports the national energy transition.

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Ensures TNI-Polri Escort Delivery of Aspirations at DPR

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago has confirmed that the government, together with the TNI and Polri, will escort the public in conveying their aspirations at the DPR building. The security measures are intended to ensure the demonstration proceeds in an orderly, safe, and conducive manner while preventing infiltration by disruptive groups. DPR Speaker Puan Maharani has expressed the parliament's readiness to receive public input and urged participants to maintain order.

Observer: Temporary transaction suspension must comply with regulations

Public policy observer Agus Pambagio has stated that banks may temporarily suspend transactions for law enforcement purposes provided they have legal authority and follow applicable regulations. He emphasised that banks are not in a position to determine whether a criminal act has occurred, but must comply with lawful requests from authorities. The remarks come amid controversy over a Bank Mandiri account linked to the Pati United Community Alliance (AMPB).

Police conduct random checks on crowd heading to DPR complex

Police carried out random searches on demonstrators approaching the Indonesian parliament building in Jakarta on Thursday to maintain security and prevent prohibited items from entering the area. Traffic diversions and TransJakarta service adjustments were implemented around the DPR complex as crowds gathered to voice their demands. Representatives of the Pati community alliance were invited into the parliament building for an audience with lawmakers.

Minister reviews wildfire response, orangutan habitat protection

Indonesia's government is intensifying integrated wildfire response efforts across fire-prone provinces, with weather modification operations and strengthened coordination among agencies. In East Kalimantan, authorities are also advancing orangutan conservation through a new rescue working group and the joint management of approximately 87,000 hectares of preservation areas.

BPJPH Chief Praises North Sumatra Governor's Move to Advance Halal Industry for MSMEs

The head of Indonesia's Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH), Haikal Hassan, has commended North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution for his efforts to develop the halal industry, particularly for micro, small, and medium enterprises. Haikal noted that the initiative aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's vision of capitalising on opportunities in the halal sector. The provincial government plans to provide incentives for 5,000 MSMEs to obtain halal certification starting in 2027.

Trump Sends Saudi Nuclear Deal to US Congress

The Trump administration has submitted a civil nuclear cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia to Congress, potentially allowing Riyadh to develop uranium enrichment capabilities. The deal remains conditional on Saudi Arabia joining the Abraham Accords, according to US officials. Experts have raised concerns over the classified nature of the agreement and the absence of a requirement for Saudi Arabia to adopt the IAEA Additional Protocol.

Pegadaian Peduli Channels Aid for Construction of Raba Sa'u Bridge in Mawu Village

PT Pegadaian (Persero) has disbursed corporate social responsibility funds through its Pegadaian Peduli programme to build the Raba Sa'u Bridge in Mawu Village, Bima Regency, West Nusa Tenggara. The bridge addresses decades-long accessibility challenges for villagers, particularly schoolchildren who cross the route daily. Company officials say the new infrastructure will improve safety, support education, and accelerate local economic activity.

Qatari Prime Minister Visits Tehran Amid Trump Threats Against Iran-Supporting Nations

Qatar's Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani is visiting Tehran to pursue regional de-escalation and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The visit underscores Qatar's unique role as a mediator with direct channels to both Washington and Tehran. Economic pressures, including a 96 per cent collapse in Qatari LNG exports since the war began, are driving Doha's diplomatic urgency.

Government assures no restrictions on protesters travelling to Jakarta for demonstration

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago has confirmed that authorities will not block people from outside Jakarta who wish to join today's demonstration. He stated that security forces are tasked only with ensuring the protest proceeds safely and humanely. The minister urged demonstrators to express their aspirations in an orderly manner without disturbing the public.

Foreign Ministry confirms no Indonesian nationals affected by floods on China-Nepal border

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has confirmed that no Indonesian citizens are among the hundreds of foreign tourists killed or missing after flash floods struck the China-Nepal border. Indonesian embassies in Dhaka and Beijing are monitoring the situation and have issued safety advisories to Indonesian nationals in the affected areas.

BULOG and Bapanas Distribute Food Aid to 1.24 Million Beneficiaries in Lampung

The government, through the National Food Agency (Bapanas) and state logistics company Perum BULOG, has begun distributing rice food aid for the July, August, and September 2026 allocation in Lampung Province. The programme targets 1,242,582 beneficiaries in Lampung with a total allocation of over 37,277 tonnes of rice. Each recipient will receive 10 kilograms of rice per month for three months, as part of efforts to strengthen social protection and maintain food price stability.

Police Urge Demonstrators Not to Damage Public Facilities

Polda Metro Jaya has called on all groups planning to demonstrate in Jakarta to maintain public order and refrain from damaging public facilities. Police emphasised that freedom of assembly is guaranteed by law but must be exercised responsibly. Security personnel have been deployed at key locations including the DPR/MPR complex and the route from Bundaran HI to the State Palace.

Indonesia deploys 18,504 personnel to secure Jakarta rallies

Indonesian police have deployed 18,504 personnel across Jakarta to secure planned demonstrations, with a layered and unarmed approach aimed at maintaining public order. The operation focuses on key areas including the Parliament Complex, with traffic management prepared to minimise disruption. The rallies are expected to include demands for an asset forfeiture bill and capital punishment for corruptors.

BNPB Chief Proposes Disaster Logistics Warehouses in Every Region to Speed Up Aid

The head of Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has proposed building disaster logistics warehouses in every regency and city to accelerate aid distribution. Suharyanto said many regional disaster agency warehouses are empty, hampering emergency response. The proposal received a positive response from President Prabowo Subianto.

Singapore Known as Safe, but Home Burglary Cases Jump 25%

Home burglaries in Singapore rose 25.1% to 459 cases in the first half of 2026, even as overall physical crime remained stable. Police attributed the increase mainly to cases involving people with access to or familiarity with the premises. Sexual harassment and shop theft also rose, while robbery and snatch theft remained rare.

Death Toll from Nepal Flash Floods Rises to 165, Search Continues

The death toll from a devastating flash flood that struck the Nepal-Tibet border region has climbed to 165, with 265 people still reported missing. The disaster was triggered by a glacier collapse, sending a wall of mud and debris through villages along the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers. Rescue teams are continuing to search for survivors, including hundreds of foreign tourists who were unaccounted for in the aftermath.

Job Hugging, a New Trend Among Gen Z and Millennials Who Refuse to Change Jobs Despite Being Unhappy

A new workplace phenomenon called 'job hugging' is emerging among Gen Z and millennial workers, who choose to remain in unsatisfying jobs due to financial security concerns and an uncertain labour market. Unlike job hopping, this trend reflects a preference for stability over pursuing better opportunities. The shift is driven by fears of losing income and limited job vacancies amid economic uncertainty.

RMIT and Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology synergise to strengthen Indonesian vocational education

RMIT University Australia is collaborating with Indonesia's Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology to strengthen vocational and higher education as the country works towards its Indonesia Emas 2045 vision. The partnership highlights the need for an integrated tertiary education system that links practical skills with academic knowledge and industry needs. RMIT's Earn and Learn model, which allows students to gain qualifications while working with industry partners, is presented as a key example of this approach.

Terrifying Moments as Flash Flood Slams Building on Nepal-China Border

A catastrophic flash flood struck Nepal's border region with China, killing at least 157 people and sweeping away entire settlements. CCTV footage captured the moment a massive debris-laden torrent destroyed a cross-border building as hundreds fled for their lives. Authorities are still searching for 403 tourists, including 341 foreign nationals, whose whereabouts remain unknown.

Unhas expert promotes natural ingredients as therapy for periodontal disease

A periodontology expert from Hasanuddin University has advocated the use of natural ingredients as supportive therapy for periodontal disease, citing their anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and regenerative properties. Professor Asdar highlighted that chronic periodontal inflammation can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease through systemic inflammatory mechanisms. He emphasised that integrated promotive, preventive and curative strategies, supported by innovative research, are needed to control the disease.

5 Mineral Commodities with the Largest Downstream Investment in Q2 2026

Indonesia's downstream investment realisation reached Rp152.7 trillion in the second quarter of 2026, up 5.7% year-on-year. The mineral sector dominated with Rp108.2 trillion, or 71% of the total, driven by strong value addition and rising global demand. Bauxite led the way with Rp40.1 trillion, followed by copper, iron and steel, and silica sand.

Sugar Restriction Before Age Two Lowers Cancer Risk and Slows Biological Ageing

A new study using post-war UK sugar rationing as a natural experiment finds that children who consumed less sugar in their first 1,000 days had significantly lower risks of several cancers and slower biological ageing. The research, based on UK Biobank data from over 64,000 people, showed the strongest effect on liver cancer, with a 69 per cent lower risk. The findings reinforce the long-term health impact of early-life sugar exposure.

Facing Drought and Forest Fire Threat, South Sumatra Police Hold Istisqa Prayer

The South Sumatra Regional Police held an Istisqa prayer at their headquarters to seek divine intervention for rain amid rising forest and land fire risks. The ceremony was combined with a Maulid Nabi commemoration and the distribution of social assistance to affected residents. Police officials emphasised that spiritual efforts complement operational measures in tackling the escalating hotspot situation.

Gatot Subroto Road in Front of DPR Closed Ahead of 27 August Protest

Police have closed Jalan Gatot Subroto towards Slipi as demonstrators gather outside the House of Representatives (DPR) building in Senayan, Jakarta, to demand stronger anti-corruption measures. The protest, led by the Pati United Community Alliance, is calling for the immediate passage of the Asset Forfeiture Bill and the harshest penalties for corruptors. Around 18,504 police personnel have been deployed across Central Jakarta with a humanist approach to secure the demonstrations.

Negotiated Transactions Worth Rp1.56 Trillion in DSSA and EXCL Shares

Shares of Sinar Mas Group's Dian Swastatika Sentosa (DSSA) and telecom firm XLSMART Telecom Sejahtera (EXCL) dominated negotiated market trading on Tuesday, with DSSA alone recording Rp1.31 trillion in transactions. The activity contributed to a total negotiated market value of approximately Rp1.58 trillion. The broader Jakarta Composite Index fell 1.48% to 6,405.69, leaving the 6,500 psychological level behind.

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Ensures Safe and Peaceful Expression of Aspirations at DPR Building

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago has assured the public that the government, together with the TNI and Polri, will safeguard the delivery of public aspirations in front of the DPR building to ensure it proceeds safely, orderly, and peacefully. He emphasised that the layered security measures are not intended to restrict constitutional rights but to protect demonstrators and ensure their voices are heard by lawmakers. The minister also urged Jakarta residents to remain calm and carry on with their daily activities.

Gold Price Update 27 August 2026: Antam Falls Again!

The price of gold bullion from PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) declined for a second consecutive day on Thursday, 27 August 2026, with the 1-gram product falling by Rp27,000 to Rp2,723,000. Pegadaian's Galeri24 and UBS gold products also recorded decreases. The article provides a full price list and practical tips for buying and storing gold.

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs: Today's DPR Building Demonstration Escorted, Masses Protected

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago has assured that security forces will escort and protect demonstrators during today's protest at the DPR building. He emphasised that the authorities are present to facilitate the safe and orderly delivery of public aspirations rather than to obstruct them. The government, TNI, and Polri are coordinating with community elements to maintain security and public order throughout the demonstration.

Rupiah Weakest in Asia, Won and Yuan Strengthen Against Dollar

The Indonesian rupiah was the worst-performing Asian currency on Thursday morning, depreciating 0.45% to Rp17,775 per US dollar. In contrast, the South Korean won led regional gains with a 0.44% appreciation. Market movements were driven by US inflation data that kept expectations of further Federal Reserve rate hikes alive.

DPR to Proceed with Plenary Session Amid 27 August Protest

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) will hold its plenary session as scheduled on 27 August, despite a mass demonstration outside the parliament complex. The session includes a report on the Asset Forfeiture Bill, which has not yet been formally deliberated as the DPR has not received a presidential letter. Protesters are demanding the bill's immediate passage and harsher punishments for corruptors.