Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 28 August 2026

Showing 551-600 of 1,420 articles

Traffic engineering during Merdeka Run 2026 in Jakarta

Jakarta's traffic police will close 12 roads in Central Jakarta on Saturday morning to facilitate the Merdeka Run 2026, which is expected to attract over 10,000 participants. The closures will run from 4am to 8am, with alternative routes prepared for motorists. The event, supported by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, starts and finishes at the National Monument area.

Purbaya: 6.7% Growth Needed for All Fresh Graduates to Find Work

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has stated that Indonesia needs economic growth of 6.7% to absorb all new entrants to the workforce. Current growth of 5.61% in Q1 2026 and 5.29% in Q2 2026 remains below this target. He called for optimising fiscal policy, accommodative monetary policy, and a conducive business climate to accelerate growth.

Doctor warns of forest fire haze dangers to children's health

A paediatrician has warned that haze from forest and land fires poses a serious threat to children's respiratory health, particularly for infants, toddlers and those with pre-existing lung conditions. Dr Eriska Ayu Wirindri urged parents to limit outdoor activities, keep doors and windows closed, and use air purifiers when air quality deteriorates. She also advised seeking immediate medical attention if children show signs of breathing difficulty.

Today's Top 3 News: What to Know About Aug. 27 Jakarta Protest

Police used water cannons and tear gas to disperse protesters outside the Indonesian parliament in Jakarta on 27 August 2026, with authorities claiming only the Pati-based group demonstrated peacefully while others sought to cause damage. Viral videos of bus convoys allegedly bringing protesters from regions such as Lampung, Palembang, and Banyuwangi are being fact-checked.

Bareskrim Uncovers Two Gold Smuggling Rings Targeting Dubai and Hong Kong

Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has identified two major illegal gold smuggling networks operating in the country, with one exporting to Dubai and the other to Hong Kong. The syndicates used sophisticated methods, including melting gold into powder and gel form to evade airport security. Police are now tracing assets and pursuing suspects who fled abroad through international cooperation channels.

Diagnosed with Heart Disease, Sulistiyatno Benefits from JKN for Routine Check-ups

Sulistiyatno, a 56-year-old heart disease patient, has found relief through Indonesia's National Health Insurance (JKN) programme, which covers his treatment and monthly check-ups. He highlights the ease of using the Mobile JKN app for referrals and queue bookings. He also encourages the public to utilise JKN's preventive services, such as health screenings, for early disease detection.

Tria Dipa Hospital Accepts BPJS Kesehatan Patients, Supporting Jakarta's UHC Achievement

Tria Dipa Hospital in South Jakarta has officially begun accepting BPJS Kesehatan patients, aligning with Jakarta's Universal Health Coverage rate of 99.91%. The hospital has undergone a comprehensive transformation into a lifestyle hospital, featuring advanced medical technology including Southeast Asia's first photon-counting CT scanner. Governor Pramono Anung welcomed the development as a step towards equitable access to quality healthcare for all Jakarta residents.

Bogor Regency Education Office Searched, KPK Seizes Documents

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has searched the Bogor Regency Education Office in West Java, seizing documents related to procurement activities. The search is part of an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption within the Bogor Regency Government, which has already progressed to the formal investigation stage. Investigators are also examining suspected irregularities in goods and services procurement and the alleged receipt of Rp1.5 billion linked to wage deductions at the regional revenue agency.

KPK Searches Bogor Regency Education Office

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has searched the Bogor Regency Education Office as part of an ongoing corruption investigation in the region. Investigators seized documents related to procurement activities, following earlier searches of the regional revenue and human resources agencies. The case involves alleged corruption in tax incentive deductions and goods and services procurement, with no suspects yet named.

BPS Reveals Why Decile Data Can Change, Here Are the Causes

Statistics Indonesia (BPS) has explained that decile data can change after updates are carried out, as community conditions are dynamic. The agency emphasised that data updating is key to ensuring government data accurately reflects current conditions on the ground. Citizens are encouraged to submit their information through the updating channel so that recorded data can be adjusted to match the facts.

KLH seals factory waste pipe suspected of polluting Porong River, East Java

Indonesia's Ministry of Environment has sealed a wastewater discharge pipe belonging to PT Mega Surya Eratama in Mojokerto Regency, East Java, following community complaints about pollution of the Porong River. Laboratory tests confirmed several water quality parameters exceeded permitted standards, including BOD, COD, total coliform, and oil and grease. The ministry has pledged firm and measured legal enforcement against the company.

Titiek Soeharto pushes TWNC to become a living laboratory

Titiek Soeharto, chair of House Commission IV, has expressed optimism that the Tambling Wildlife Nature Conservation in Lampung can be developed into a living laboratory integrating conservation, science, technology and education. Her remarks came as she welcomed 21 Nobel laureates, Turing Award winners and other global figures to the conservation area. The visit was intended to connect Indonesia's conservation experience with the global scientific community on biodiversity, climate change and sustainable development.

Bandung City Government to Process Waste through 300 Tonne/Day TPSOS Facility

The Bandung city government, together with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology and Danantara, has agreed to develop a waste processing facility with a capacity of up to 300 tonnes per day in Gedebage. The project aims to reduce the city's dependence on provincial landfill sites while waiting for the Legok Nangka facility to become operational. The technology will convert waste into Solid Recovered Fuel and is expected to begin operations by late 2026 or early 2027.

Video: To Boost Sumatra's Gateway Economy, Lampung Relies on Food and Tourism

Lampung's economy grew 5.29% year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026, the second-highest on Sumatra, driven by agriculture, processing industries and trade. Governor Rahmat Mirzani Djausal highlighted the role of government support for food commodity prices and a nearly 60% rise in domestic tourism. The province is also pushing downstream investment while targeting major improvements to its road infrastructure.

Purbaya Prepares 'Anti-Counterfeit' Excise Stamps with Advanced System

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has announced plans to introduce advanced 'Track and Trace' technology for excise stamps, developed in partnership with state-owned printer Peruri and an unnamed foreign company. The system is claimed to be more sophisticated than barcodes and will make excise stamps impossible to counterfeit. The government will trial the technology over five years and may discontinue it if it fails to boost state revenue.

Megawati Says Indonesia in Mourning: Earthquakes, Floods, and Snow in Papua

Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri has highlighted the country's current environmental crises, citing earthquakes, floods, and an unusual snowfall in Papua as signs of accelerating climate change. Speaking during a meeting with Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta, she urged serious attention to global warming and its threats to human life and biodiversity.

What Caused the Flash Floods That Killed Hundreds in Nepal-Tibet?

A massive glacial collapse near the Nepal-Tibet border triggered devastating flash floods that have killed at least 469 people in Nepal, with hundreds more missing including foreign tourists. Experts suggest climate change is destabilising high mountain environments, increasing the risk of glacial lake outburst floods and landslides. The disaster highlights the growing vulnerability of the Himalayan region to climate-related hazards.

City Residents Forum highlights sugary drink consumption and health risks

The Indonesian City Residents Forum (FAKTA) has urged the government to take sugary drink consumption seriously, citing rising rates of diabetes, obesity and tooth decay among young people. The group pointed to data showing nearly half of Indonesians consume sweet drinks more than once a day and noted that a planned excise on packaged sugary drinks has been discussed since 2016 but never implemented. FAKTA is now preparing legal action over the government's failure to enact the policy.

Pre-trial Rejected, Febrie Adriansyah's Legal Team Prepares Next Steps

The legal team of former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah is preparing its next move after a South Jakarta District Court judge rejected one of his pre-trial motions. The team plans to meet with their client to discuss ongoing legal processes, while a second pre-trial hearing concerning his suspect designation is scheduled for Friday afternoon. The lawyers maintain that the pre-trial process is intended to correct and evaluate potential procedural flaws in the handling of the case.

Bogor Regency to Build PDAM Junction Underpass in 2027, Targeting Cibinong Congestion

The Bogor Regency administration plans to construct an underpass at the PDAM junction on Jalan Raya Tegar Beriman, Cibinong, in 2027 to alleviate traffic congestion at a strategic intersection. The project is part of the regency's priority capital expenditure programme for 2027, alongside other connectivity projects such as the Bojonggede–Kemang flyover and the widening of Jalan Laladon. The scheme also includes relocating overhead utility cables underground to improve safety and the corridor's appearance.

Ministry of Religious Affairs ready to hold 2026 Madrasah Olympiad, boosting madrasah talent in science

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has announced plans for the 2026 Madrasah Olympiad (OMI), aimed at strengthening talent development and promoting science, research, innovation and character building among madrasah students. The competition will feature science and research categories, with the research strand encouraging digital transformation projects involving artificial intelligence. The national-level event is scheduled to take place in November 2026.

BI to periodically evaluate 19 percent SSB ratio threshold in KLM PPU

Bank Indonesia will regularly review the 19 percent threshold for securities holdings under its Macroprudential Liquidity Incentive Policy for money market deepening. The central bank says the level was set using macro and micro assumptions, including liquidity coverage ratios, and may be adjusted if market conditions change.

Budi Arie clarifies 2029 election remarks were not Jokowi's stance

Projo chairman Budi Arie Setiadi has clarified that his comments about the possibility of accelerating the 2029 general election were his personal views and not the position of former president Joko Widodo. He made the remarks during a meeting with Jokowi and volunteers, and said he did not know who recorded the conversation that later went viral. Budi Arie also noted that Jokowi had reassured attendees about Indonesia's economic conditions, including growth of around 5 percent and inflation of 3.2 percent.

Constitutional Court Rejects Petition Seeking Free Train Tickets for Children up to Age Five

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has dismissed a citizen's petition demanding free train tickets for children aged 0–5, ruling that the current policy of free travel only for under-threes does not violate the Railways Law. The court held that fare exemptions are not a 'special facility' under the law and that rigid statutory limits would hinder future service improvements.

BPS Reaffirms Guarantee of Economic Census Data Confidentiality, Urges Public Not to Worry

Statistics Indonesia (BPS) has assured the public that data collected through the 2026 Economic Census will be kept confidential and is not linked to taxation purposes. Head of BPS Amalia Adininggar Widyasanti encouraged participation, including self-enumeration via online questionnaires. The census aims to produce more accurate data on economic activities across the country.

CCTV Damaged During Protest, Pramono Orders Investigation

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has instructed the city's communication and informatics agency to investigate the vandalism of CCTV cameras during a recent demonstration. He stressed that damaging public facilities is not permitted when expressing aspirations, and that further action will be taken if perpetrators are identified. The Jakarta administration has also begun cleaning up affected areas to restore normal conditions.

Bareskrim: Two illegal gold smuggling groups operating in Indonesia

Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency has identified two separate groups smuggling illegal gold abroad, with one exporting to Dubai and the other to Hong Kong. Investigators are preventing detained suspects from leaving the country, tracing their assets, and pursuing those who have fled overseas through international cooperation. The case has also uncovered illegal gold processing facilities where gold was melted into powder and gel form to evade airport security.

BI reports Bengkulu MSME sales at KKI 2026 reach Rp1.24 billion

Bank Indonesia has reported that micro, small and medium enterprises from Bengkulu Province generated Rp1.195 billion in online sales and Rp49.20 million in offline sales during the Karya Kreatif Indonesia 2026 event. The central bank said the results demonstrate that Bengkulu MSMEs are capable of competing with their counterparts elsewhere in Indonesia. Nationally, KKI 2026 recorded Rp144.2 billion in sales, Rp169.9 billion in business matching and Rp285 billion in bank financing for MSMEs.

Mud Lake on Nepal-Tibet Border Overflows, SAR Operations Suspended

A landslide-formed lake on the Nepal-Tibet border has overflowed, prompting authorities to suspend search and rescue operations following a devastating glacial flood that killed at least 474 people. The lake's water volume exceeded 2.5 million cubic metres before breaching into the Bhotekoshi River, forcing residents and rescue personnel to flee to higher ground.

Riau Police name 40 suspects in 37 forest and land fire cases

Riau Regional Police have named 40 suspects across 37 forest and land fire cases, with the total burned area reaching 904 hectares. Most cases point to deliberate land clearing by burning. Police say they are applying scientific criminal investigation methods and relevant environmental and forestry laws.

KKP pushes 65 Merah Putih Fishing Villages to develop business units

Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries is encouraging the managers of 65 Merah Putih Fishing Villages to develop productive and sustainable business units, ensuring the programme extends beyond infrastructure construction. The ministry is providing training on financial recording and business development to cooperative managers, with the aim of building cooperatives capable of identifying opportunities and expanding their operations. The first phase of 65 villages was completed in April 2026, with plans to expand the programme to 1,386 fishing villages by the end of the year.

KPK seizes procurement documents after searching Bogor Regency Education Office

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized procurement-related documents following a search of the Bogor Regency Education Office in West Java. The action is part of an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption within the Bogor Regency Government, including suspected receipt of money by state officials. The KPK has not yet named any suspects in the case.

Total US Economic Pressure Hits Iran, Can Tehran Withstand It?

The United States has shifted from military operations to a full-scale economic campaign against Iran, threatening secondary sanctions on any country that continues trading with Tehran. Iranian officials have responded defiantly, warning of severe retaliation and disruption to Gulf oil exports if regional states join the sanctions effort. Despite crippling inflation, a collapsing rial and widespread hardship, Tehran continues to rely on shadow banking, covert oil exports to China and domestic production to sustain its economy.

PMI NTB dispatches water tanker trucks to aid NTT earthquake victims

The Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) in West Nusa Tenggara has deployed two water tanker trucks to supply clean water to communities affected by the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara. The deployment follows an earlier shipment of 258 tonnes of aid and is part of a broader humanitarian mission coordinated with PMI headquarters. PMI Chairman Jusuf Kalla emphasised that assistance is being mobilised through regional branches, including Kupang, Bali, NTB, and Surabaya.

Nepal-China Flash Flood Death Toll Reaches 470, Thousands Still Missing

The death toll from a devastating flash flood along the Nepal-China border has risen to more than 470, with over 1,500 people still unaccounted for. Rescue operations continue amid warnings of further flooding after a dam in Tibet reportedly burst. Hundreds of the missing are foreign nationals who were in the area for work, trekking, or pilgrimage.

Prabowo Prepares New Regulation: BLU to Supply Coal and Gas for Power Plants

President Prabowo Subianto is preparing a new regulation to establish a Public Service Agency (BLU) for the energy sector, tasked with procuring and distributing coal and natural gas to power plants. The agency aims to ensure supply security and price stability for electricity generation. The draft regulation outlines the BLU's responsibilities, including purchasing from private miners, managing its own coal mines, and using hedging to stabilise costs.

OJK responds to Eagle High Plantations dispute with Felda

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has clarified that the dispute between PT Eagle High Plantations and Malaysia's Felda stems from a bilateral share sale agreement between shareholders, not the listed company itself. The matter is currently under arbitration at the Singapore International Arbitration Centre. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has written to President Prabowo Subianto seeking assistance, warning potential losses could reach RM2.5 billion.

Budi Arie Affirms Possibility of Early 2029 Election Is Personal Analysis

Projo chairman Budi Arie Setiadi has clarified that his remarks about the possibility of bringing forward the 2029 general election were a personal political analysis, not a political will to alter the electoral schedule. He stressed that political analysis differs from political intent and that any discussion of changing the election timetable must remain within democratic and constitutional boundaries. Budi Arie also urged vigilance by drawing lessons from Indonesia's political transitions between 1997 and 1999.

Indonesia studies cassava-based technology to fight land fires

Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is exploring cassava-based technology as a potential method to combat forest and land fires, following President Prabowo Subianto's call for its development and testing. BRIN has coordinated with the National Police and BMKG, and is also working on more efficient weather modification using 25-micron sodium chloride particles. The government is expected to propose a production budget soon to support research, production, and testing of the technology's effectiveness.

Fadli Zon says Ramos-Horta invited Prabowo to Timor-Leste

Indonesian Minister of Culture Fadli Zon has confirmed that Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta extended an invitation to President Prabowo Subianto for a state visit. During the meeting at the Presidential Palace complex in Jakarta, Prabowo outlined Indonesia's good neighbour policy and key domestic priorities including food and energy self-sufficiency. The discussion also highlighted the alignment of Indonesia's development programmes with the Sustainable Development Goals.

Traffic Engineering and Public Transport Adjustments for Tomorrow's Merdeka Run

The Jakarta Transportation Agency has announced situational traffic engineering and temporary public transport adjustments for the Merdeka Run 81 event on Saturday, 29 August 2026. The event, which closes the 81st Indonesian Independence Day celebrations, will affect major roads in Central and South Jakarta from 04.00 to 08.00 WIB. Alternative routes, parking locations, and modified Transjakarta services have been prepared to manage the impact.

PDIP Responds to Puan Not Signing Asset Forfeiture Bill Commitment Letter from Botok Pati et al.

PDIP Secretary-General Hasto Kristiyanto has defended the absence of House Speaker Puan Maharani's signature on a commitment letter regarding the Asset Forfeiture Bill, citing the collective-collegial nature of DPR leadership. He reaffirmed the party's commitment to eradicating corruption and supporting the bill's passage. The DPR leadership has pledged to pass the bill by 15 December 2026.

After pre-trial, legal counsel and Febrie discuss next steps

The legal team of former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah is preparing to discuss next steps after a pre-trial ruling rejected his challenge to asset seizures. A second pre-trial hearing concerning his suspect designation is scheduled for Friday afternoon. His counsel stressed the importance of due process and preventing hasty or abusive handling of criminal cases.

Indonesia strengthens furniture market access, brings 13 companies to Korea fair

Indonesia is expanding its furniture and interior market access in South Korea by featuring 13 companies at KOFURN 2026 in Gyeonggi. The Indonesian Pavilion, larger than last year, highlights natural materials, craftsmanship and sustainability to appeal to Korean consumers. The Indonesia-Korea CEPA has eliminated tariffs on nearly all Indonesian furniture, boosting competitiveness.

Government Tinkers with Plans to Restrict Pertalite Fuel Consumption, What Is the Urgency?

The Indonesian government is preparing a policy to restrict consumption of subsidised Pertalite petrol, including potentially barring certain vehicle types from using it. An economist from INDEF argues the move is urgent to control the rising energy subsidy burden and improve targeting, noting that the wealthiest 20% of households account for around 42% of fuel consumption. The 2027 state budget draft already allocates higher fuel subsidy spending, with plans to register consumers to improve distribution efficiency.

Ministry provides Rp4.18b to restore 71 disaster-hit training centers

Indonesia's Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has allocated Rp4.18 billion to rehabilitate 71 community learning centres (LKPs) in Aceh and North Sumatra damaged by last November's natural disasters. The funding aims to restore vocational and non-formal education facilities, including equipment such as sewing machines, and to strengthen governance and adaptive learning media. Beneficiaries have welcomed the assistance as a morale boost that will help resume services for children unable to access formal education.

Budi Arie stresses accelerated election discourse is personal analysis

Projo chairman Budi Arie Setiadi has clarified that his remarks about the possibility of bringing forward the 2029 general election were a personal political analysis, not a political will to alter the electoral schedule. He emphasised that political analysis differs from political intent and reaffirmed his commitment to the five-year election cycle. The clarification follows widespread public attention after a video circulated showing him speaking beside Joko Widodo about the potential for an earlier election.

Prabowo Meets Ramos Horta and Nine Nobel Laureates, Invites Research Collaboration

President Prabowo Subianto received Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos Horta and nine Nobel laureates at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta to discuss research, innovation, and conservation. Prabowo encouraged collaboration between the laureates and Indonesian researchers and academics, emphasising the importance of strengthening the country's research talent ecosystem. The meeting also covered strategic programmes such as food security, earthquake-resistant housing, and the protection of Indonesia's flora and fauna.

Number of Forest Fire Suspects Rises, Police Name 89 People

The Indonesian National Police have increased the number of suspects in forest and land fire cases to 89, up from 72 previously. The rise follows intensified investigations by the Criminal Investigation Directorate, with police also pursuing potential corporate involvement. Authorities are combining enforcement with public education campaigns to prevent land burning during the prolonged dry season.

As Iran War Drags On, Diplomacy Intensifies to Reopen the Strait of Hormuz

Mediator countries are pressing Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, with Qatar's prime minister visiting Tehran to stress freedom of navigation. Iran says it is drafting conditions for restoring normal shipping, while the US has shifted to economic pressure and military escorts. Shipping activity remains at a fraction of pre-war levels despite American claims that the strait is open.