Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 27 August 2026

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NATO Begins to Panic, Is the US Planning to Withdraw Troops from Europe?

Senior European officials are seeking to reassure the United States that NATO allies are strengthening their defences amid uncertainty over a US review of its force posture in Europe. The US has around 80,000 troops stationed on the continent and has already announced some withdrawals while reducing contributions to certain NATO defence plans. European diplomats are concerned the review process may pit allies against one another as they compete for Washington's attention.

Nangaroro Health Centre Staff Deliver Baby in Party Tent After Flores Earthquake

Health workers at Nangaroro Community Health Centre in Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, were forced to use a party tent for medical services, including a childbirth, after the 7.7-magnitude Flores earthquake damaged their facility. Governor Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena visited the centre on Thursday and handed over emergency supplies while urging continued coordination to maintain basic health services during the emergency response period.

35th NU Congress: President Prabowo Stresses Vital Role of NU and Muhammadiyah

President Prabowo Subianto officially opened the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Congress in Jombang, East Java, emphasising the organisation's crucial role in maintaining Indonesia's stability and future. He highlighted the importance of close ties between the government and major Islamic organisations such as NU and Muhammadiyah, pledging to strengthen and empower their institutions, including pesantren networks. The congress is expected to serve as the highest forum for NU members to chart the organisation's direction.

District government ensures optimal health services on inhabited islands

The Regional Development Planning Sub-Department of Kepulauan Seribu Regency has conducted monitoring and evaluation of health facilities across four inhabited islands. The survey covered Pramuka, Panggang, Pari and Untung Jawa islands, assessing clinics and planned pharmaceutical storage sites. Findings will inform future development planning to improve healthcare delivery for island residents.

As Night Falls, Student Protesters March Towards the DPR Building

Students from various universities gathered outside the DPR/MPR building in Jakarta on Thursday evening to voice their demands. Police maintained a layered security presence along Jalan Gatot Subroto, while school pupils who attempted to join were dispersed. Authorities emphasised a humane approach and confirmed officers were not armed with firearms or sharp weapons.

Indonesia Has Economic Opportunities Behind Decarbonization

Vice Minister of Finance Suahasil Nazara has argued that decarbonisation presents economic opportunities rather than obstacles, citing efficiency gains, green financing, and new investment prospects. He highlighted government support through fiscal instruments such as carbon pricing, tax incentives, and sustainable bonds, while urging the shipping industry to convert these policies into competitive advantages. Nazara also called for strengthening Indonesia's domestic carbon market to improve liquidity and price discovery.

NU Care-LAZISNU presents NU Care Hub at NU Congress

NU Care-LAZISNU PBNU has launched the NU Care Hub at the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Congress in Jombang, East Java, offering a range of free services including zakat consultation, educational games, and haircuts. The hub also showcases products from assisted MSMEs and facilitates donations for disaster victims in Sumatra, East Nusa Tenggara, and Palestine. The initiative aims to bring LAZISNU's services closer to the public during the congress.

Residents excavate ancient tomb in Sembung, Tulungagung

Residents of Sembung in Tulungagung, East Java, have excavated an ancient tomb believed to date from the 16th to 17th century, during the transition from the Hindu-Buddhist era to early Islam. The tomb features a Tembayat or Baya-style headstone carved from andesite, reflecting strong cultural acculturation between classical Majapahit/Demak carving and early Islamic burial traditions. The excavation was carried out following cross-sector consultations, with plans to relocate any remains to a cemetery in Botoran.

Two Drug Suppliers to Revaldo Fifaldi Arrested

Police have arrested two men, identified as HS and FB, who allegedly supplied narcotics to actor Revaldo Fifaldi. Both suspects are repeat offenders with prior drug convictions. Authorities are continuing to investigate the case to uncover the wider distribution network and identify other potential buyers.

Conditions Around Pejompongan, Central Jakarta Tonight: Motorcycle Set Ablaze

Crowds gathered around Jalan Pejompongan in Central Jakarta and Jalan Palmerah Timur in West Jakarta on Wednesday evening, blocking roads and disrupting commuter train services. A motorcycle was set on fire near the location, and police were deployed to secure the area. The gathering followed earlier demonstrations outside the DPR/MPR building, with some groups remaining after the main protest had dispersed.

BRI CEO Applauds Danantara Housing Expo 2026, Says Synergy Key to Expanding Housing Finance Access

The Danantara Housing Expo 2026 has opened in Tangerang, offering over 100,000 housing units from more than 100 developers across various price segments. BRI CEO Hery Gunardi highlighted cross-sector synergy as essential for widening access to affordable housing finance, with the bank offering mortgages featuring down payments from 1% and fixed rates from 2.75%. The event supports the government's 3 Million Houses Programme and aims to stimulate the property sector and local economies.

Yogyakarta immigration detains Chinese national suspected of stealing credit card at airport

Immigration authorities in Yogyakarta have detained a 56-year-old Chinese national suspected of stealing a credit card from a fellow passenger aboard a Citilink flight at Yogyakarta International Airport. The suspect, identified as KW, was apprehended after a witness reported seeing him take the item from an overhead compartment. He now faces administrative immigration sanctions and possible charges under Indonesia's Immigration Law.

Police Reveal Chronology of Mother and Child Murder in Landak

Police in Landak Regency, West Kalimantan, have detailed the chronology of a premeditated robbery and murder of a mother and her toddler. Two suspects, who knew the victim and worked nearby, allegedly planned the attack a day in advance and stole approximately Rp135 million in cash. Investigators have recovered key evidence including the victim's gold earrings, but Rp100 million in cash remains missing.

Minister Prepares Masterplan for Reconstruction of Sade Traditional Houses

Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana is preparing a masterplan to reconstruct 75 traditional houses and 69 art shops in Sade Traditional Village, Lombok, which were destroyed by fire. The plan, developed with the West Nusa Tenggara provincial government, is intended to serve as a pilot project for disaster-prone traditional villages across Indonesia. Reconstruction funding will involve local government, private sector, donors, and public fundraising.

List of Transjakarta and KRL Services Disrupted by DPR Demo Unrest

Public transport services in Jakarta were significantly disrupted on Thursday evening after a demonstration outside the House of Representatives (DPR) building turned unruly. Transjakarta adjusted 21 bus routes, with 13 temporarily suspended and others diverted or shortened, while KRL Commuter Line services on the Rangkasbitung line were also affected by crowds near the tracks. The disruptions highlight the wider impact of the protest on daily commuters in the capital.

DPR member vows to oversee certainty of non-civil servant teacher status by 2027

A member of House Commission X has pledged to monitor the resolution of employment status for non-civil servant teachers until 2027, warning that current transitional policies do not provide permanent certainty. The lawmaker highlighted that 172,323 non-ASN teachers remain affected and urged the government to issue regulations enabling their conversion to ASN status. The issue is framed as critical to the continuity of education services and the welfare of teachers and their families.

Two Riau regions raise status to forest and land fire emergency response

Pekanbaru and Pelalawan have escalated their status from alert to emergency response as forest and land fires worsen air quality across Riau. Schools have been closed and shifted to remote learning in several affected areas. Provincial authorities are monitoring other districts before deciding whether to declare a province-wide emergency.

Trump Overhauls US Navy, Advanced Aircraft Carrier Reverts to Older Technology

President Donald Trump has ordered the Pentagon to replace electromagnetic aircraft launch systems on the US Navy's newest Ford-class carriers with steam catapults, a move experts say could cost billions of dollars. The directive comes as the US Navy faces growing pressure from China's rapidly expanding fleet. Analysts warn the redesign of the USS Doris Miller alone could add billions to its already US$15 billion price tag.

Betawi Creative Dance Becomes a Space for Young Generation to Preserve Jakarta Culture

More than 20 dance studios participated in the Betawi Creative Dance Festival at the Jakarta Arts Building, showcasing choreography that blends creativity with traditional Betawi identity. The event aims to preserve Betawi arts amid changing times and encourage young people to inherit and develop the cultural heritage.

BRI Deploys Volunteers to Empower BRILiaN Village Sanur Kaja in Bali

State-owned Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has deployed 10 volunteers to Sanur Kaja village in Denpasar, Bali, as part of the State-Owned Enterprises Ministry's Relawan Bakti BUMN programme. The initiative focuses on strengthening local economic capacity, education, environmental management, and food security. The programme aims to leave lasting benefits through knowledge transfer, mentoring, and infrastructure support for local SMEs and the community.

Indonesia's Independence Spirit Can Be Nurtured Through Art and Social Care

Parfi '56, Keana Production, and Dompet Dhuafa staged a theatrical orchestration at Jakarta Art Building to commemorate Indonesia's independence, blending historical narrative with emotional storytelling. The performance, directed by Olivia Zalianty, forms part of the Bakti Seniman Nusantara programme, with all ticket proceeds donated to senior artists and underprivileged communities. Organisers framed the event as a way to translate collective memory of the nation's founders into a tangible movement of social solidarity.

BRI Volunteers Empower Sanur Kaja Village Through SOE Volunteer Programme 2026

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) deployed 10 volunteers to Sanur Kaja village in Bali as part of the SOE Volunteer Programme (Relawan Bakti BUMN) Batch IX 2026. The initiative focused on four pillars: economy, education, environment, and health and food security. BRI provided training, mentoring, and facilities to strengthen local MSMEs, schools, waste management, and urban farming.

Jakarta Inner-City Toll Road Reopened

The section of the Jakarta Inner-City Toll Road that had been closed due to a protest near the House of Representatives building has been reopened. Police carried out a sweep to ensure the road was safe before allowing traffic to flow again in both directions. The exit in front of the DPR building remains closed.

Travel Rerouting: Green Line KRL Only Goes as Far as Palmerah Station

KAI Commuter has rerouted the Rangkasbitung–Tanah Abang KRL service, with trains now terminating at Palmerah Station due to crowds near the Palmerah–Tanah Abang corridor. Passengers travelling towards Rangkasbitung are advised to board from Palmerah Station. The disruption follows demonstrations near the DPR building, where police remain on site attempting to disperse remaining groups.

Plenary Session Agrees Labour Protection Bill as DPR Initiative Proposal

The House of Representatives (DPR) has agreed to adopt the Labour Protection Bill as a DPR initiative proposal during a plenary session. The decision follows approval of the bill's harmonisation by the Legislation Body (Baleg) the previous day. The bill will now proceed through the legislative process.

DPR Budget Committee: Rp4,097.2 trillion 2027 state budget spending must deliver significant impact

The House of Representatives' Budget Committee has stressed that the 2027 state budget, projected at Rp4,097.2 trillion, must produce meaningful outcomes. Chairman Said Abdullah cautioned that the government should avoid new taxation that could burden the public, while also questioning the lower non-tax revenue target. He emphasised that every programme must demonstrate a clear link to growth, equity, and economic justice.

Family of Police Officer's Ex-Wife Found Dead in Medan Storms North Sumatra Police Headquarters

Relatives of Winda Lorenza Gowasa protested outside the North Sumatra Regional Police headquarters, demanding an exhumation to determine the cause of her death. Winda was found dead with a firearm in the bathroom of her ex-husband Brigadier Imansyah Harefa's home. The family has questioned the police investigation and reported the brigadier for alleged murder.

Indonesian Foreign Ministry Expresses Condolences over Flash Floods on Nepal-China Border

Indonesia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has conveyed its deepest condolences to the governments and people of China and Nepal following devastating flash floods in the Gyirong border region. The ministry confirmed that no Indonesian nationals have been reported as victims, though it continues to monitor the situation of around 45 Indonesians in Nepal. Indonesian diplomatic missions are coordinating with local authorities as search and rescue operations continue for more than 1,300 people still missing.

Profile of Destry Damayanti and two Bank Indonesia Deputy Governors for 2026-2031

Destry Damayanti has been approved as the first woman to be definitively elected Governor of Bank Indonesia, marking a historic milestone for the central bank. The House of Representatives Commission XI also approved Aida S. Budiman as Senior Deputy Governor and selected Solikin M. Juhro as Deputy Governor. All three appointees come from within Bank Indonesia and will be formally inaugurated at a plenary session on 1 September 2026.

Prabowo's Niece Proposes Strategy to Upgrade Indonesian MSMEs

Rahayu Saraswati Djojohadikusumo, Deputy Chair of Commission VII of the Indonesian House of Representatives, has called for a shift in focus from merely sustaining micro, small, and medium enterprises to actively boosting their productivity and competitiveness. Speaking at an ISEI seminar, she argued that MSMEs must be integrated into national and global value chains. She also stressed that the people's economy and industrialisation should be pursued as a single agenda.

Pretrial Judge Says Febrie Allegedly Received Rp 40 Billion from Tan Kian, Here's Why

A South Jakarta District Court judge has revealed that former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah allegedly received Rp 40 billion in Singapore dollars from businessman Tan Kian, purportedly linked to the ASABRI and Jiwasraya corruption cases. The disclosure emerged in the judge's consideration rejecting Febrie's pretrial motion challenging searches, seizures, and his naming as a suspect. The judge stressed that the pretrial hearing only assessed the legality of police actions, not the truth of the alleged money transfer.

Febrie Allegedly Received Rp 40 Billion from Tan Kian Related to ASABRI-Jiwasraya Case

Former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah is alleged to have received Rp 40 billion in Singapore dollars from businessman Tan Kian in connection with the ASABRI and Jiwasraya corruption scandals. The allegation emerged in a pretrial ruling at the South Jakarta District Court, where a judge rejected Febrie's challenge against searches and his naming as a suspect. The court emphasised it was assessing the legality of investigative actions rather than the truth of the bribery claim.

Agam Regency Government Appreciates Tabek Panjang Festival for Attracting Tourists

The Agam Regency Government in West Sumatra has praised the Tabek Panjang community for preserving arts and culture through a festival aimed at boosting tourist visits. The fifth edition of the cultural event drew thousands of local participants and around 40 Malaysian tourists. Local officials plan to develop tourism packages to further promote the region's unique traditions and create business opportunities for residents.

Police Use Water Cannon to Disperse Protesters Outside DPR Building

Police deployed water cannon to disperse demonstrators outside the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) complex in Jakarta after the protest turned unruly. Hundreds of protesters attempted to breach the parliamentary gates, threw bottles and stones, and climbed the perimeter fence. The situation escalated after the Aliansi Masyarakat Pati Bersatu (AMPB) group disbanded and other demonstrators converged on the main gate.

Maulid, Congress, and the Future of NU

The 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Congress opens in Tambakberas, Jombang, as the organisation enters its second century amid complex digital, social, and geopolitical challenges. The congress is framed not merely as a leadership contest but as a decisive moment for NU to define its strategic direction. The article argues that NU's next leader must combine religious scholarship, intellectual breadth, humility, integrity, and a forward-looking vision to keep the organisation relevant.

North Jakarta administration to improve healthcare quality through 'NJID' 2026

The North Jakarta city government is holding the North Jakarta Innovation Days (NJID) 2026 to improve healthcare services, focusing on maternal and child health and family planning. Eleven teams from community health centres, regional hospitals, and private hospitals are presenting innovations aimed at enhancing service quality and patient safety. The best innovations will represent North Jakarta at the provincial level.

Jasa Marga closes transactions at several toll gates on Jakarta Inner City Toll Road

PT Jasa Marga temporarily closed transactions at multiple toll gates on the Jakarta Inner City Toll Road following police discretion, as demonstrators protesting near the MPR/DPR complex entered the motorway. Traffic from Cililitan and Halim toll gates was diverted towards Tanjung Priok, with closures affecting gates including Cawang, Tebet, Kuningan, Senayan, Slipi, Pejompongan, Angke, Jelambar and Tanjung Duren. The toll operator apologised for the inconvenience and continues to monitor traffic conditions with police.

Indonesian Foreign Ministry conveys condolences over floods on Nepal-China border

Indonesia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed condolences to China and Nepal following a flash flood in the Gyirong border region. The ministry confirmed no Indonesian nationals have been reported affected and is monitoring the situation through its embassies in Beijing and Dhaka. Around 45 Indonesians reside in Nepal, mostly in Kathmandu working in the hospitality sector.

BNI Offers Special Mortgage at Danantara Housing Expo: Down Payment from 1%

PT Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) is offering a special mortgage programme at the Danantara Housing Expo 2026, featuring interest rates from 2.75%, down payments starting at 1%, and tenors of up to 30 years. The initiative supports the government's Three Million Houses Programme and aims to broaden public access to home financing. The offer applies to new properties from participating developers and runs until 30 September 2026.

TransJakarta Suspends 13 Routes and Diverts 8 Services Tonight

TransJakarta has suspended 13 routes and diverted 8 others following the closure of Jalan Gatot Subroto in front of the DPR/MPR building. The adjustments, effective from 19:30 WIB, affect services around the DPR/MPR area and Tanah Abang in Central Jakarta. Passengers have been advised to monitor updates through the TJ:Transjakarta app and official social media channels.

South Jakarta District Court Judge Rejects Febrie Adriansyah's Pre-trial Motion, Search Declared Lawful

The South Jakarta District Court has rejected a pre-trial motion filed by former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) Febrie Adriansyah, ruling that the search and seizure conducted by investigators were lawful. Judge Richard Edwin Basoeki found that the investigation was preceded by a thorough inquiry and case review, and that the absence of Attorney General approval was permissible under a Constitutional Court ruling for special crimes. The decision upholds the actions of Polda Metro Jaya and the Police's Corruption Eradication Corps in the money laundering case against Adriansyah.

Mass Shark Graveyard Discovered in the Middle of the Desert Unearths the Past

Researchers have uncovered fossilised shark teeth dating back tens to hundreds of millions of years in Egypt's Western Desert, revealing that the arid region was once a thriving seabed. The discovery includes at least five extinct shark species, two of which had never been recorded in Egypt and one possibly the first record in Africa. The findings highlight the rich ancient marine ecosystem that existed in the area during the Late Cretaceous period.

Judge Rules Febrie's Suspect Designation Valid with Two Pieces of Evidence

The South Jakarta District Court has ruled that the designation of former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah as a suspect was lawful. Judge Richard Edwin Basoeki found that the determination met the minimum requirement of two valid pieces of evidence. The court also rejected arguments that the four-day gap between the investigation order and suspect designation proved premeditation, and that money laundering charges required prior proof of a predicate offence.

43.2 Million Illegal Cigarettes Destroyed, Surabaya City Government Targets 31 Districts

The Surabaya city government is expanding its crackdown on illegal cigarettes by extending surveillance to all 31 districts, alongside the destruction of 43.2 million illicit sticks worth approximately Rp64.2 billion. The move aims to protect public health and safeguard state and regional revenues from lost excise duties and local taxes. Authorities plan to implement district-based monitoring with standard operating procedures and inter-agency coordination by 2026.

Several Inner-City Toll Gates Temporarily Closed Due to Protest at DPR

Jasamarga Metropolitan Tollroad, in coordination with police, implemented temporary traffic diversions and toll gate closures on the Jakarta inner-city toll road on Thursday due to demonstrations near the DPR/MPR building. The protest, involving students and various community groups demanding the passage of the Asset Forfeiture Bill, continued into the evening before police dispersed the crowd with water cannon.

Bank Indonesia commits to stimulating Central Sulawesi MSMEs to level up

Bank Indonesia's Central Sulawesi representative office is intensifying programmes to help micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) grow more competitive, including through digitalisation and access to wider markets. The central bank is preparing local businesses for the Road to Karya Kreatif Indonesia 2026 and has seen significant growth in QRIS adoption. One assisted fashion business from Palu has already penetrated international markets.

Pertamina partners with regional governments to ensure subsidised fuel distribution is on target

Pertamina Patra Niaga is strengthening coordination with regional governments, law enforcement, and the legislature to prevent misuse of subsidised fuel. The company reaffirmed its commitment to distributing subsidised energy in line with government policy and legal mandates. This follows projections that subsidised fuel distribution will exceed the 2026 quota.

Bima Arya Reveals Many Regions Still Dependent on Central Government Fund Transfers

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya has disclosed that 86% of regional governments in Indonesia remain heavily dependent on central government transfers, with fiscal vulnerability most acute at the district and city levels. He noted that three decades of regional autonomy have not yet strengthened local fiscal capacity, and that decentralisation remains ineffective. The government aims to finalise a major redesign of regional autonomy by December 2026, including a fairer formula for revenue-sharing and general allocation funds.

Jakarta Housing Backlog Reaches 402,000 Households

Jakarta faces a housing backlog of approximately 402,287 households, while around 29,000 apartment units remain unsold. The DKI Jakarta provincial government and property industry players are promoting transit-oriented development, creative financing schemes, and better-targeted policies to improve access to affordable housing.

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin Responds to WHO Director-General Candidacy

Indonesian Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has confirmed that his candidacy for Director-General of the World Health Organization is a mandate from President Prabowo Subianto. He said the nomination reflects Indonesia's ambition to have a representative lead a United Nations-level global institution. The election will be decided by 194 WHO member states in May.