Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 28 August 2026

Showing 701-750 of 1,420 articles

Watching Andrea Bocelli Becomes More Special, BNI Buys Ticket and Travel Discounts

State-owned Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) is offering a range of incentives for customers attending Andrea Bocelli's 'Romanza - 30th Anniversary World Tour' concerts in Indonesia. The programme includes ticket discounts of up to 20%, instalment plans, and travel and accommodation savings. BNI views the international concerts as a catalyst for economic activity in transport, accommodation, and culinary sectors around the venues.

Not a Normal Summer: Science Refutes Climate Change Deniers

As Europe endures one of its hottest summers on record, scientists are pushing back against populist politicians who dismiss the extreme heat as normal seasonal variation. Data from multiple climate agencies confirm that human-caused warming and El Niño have driven record temperatures, while attribution studies show climate change has made wildfires in Spain and France far more likely.

Brimob Polda Metro Patrols Tangerang to Prevent Crime

The Brimob unit of Polda Metro Jaya conducted patrols in Benda District, Tangerang City, to deter criminal activity including brawls, aggravated theft, and vehicle theft. The patrols covered residential areas and main access roads during the early hours. Police reported no notable incidents and encouraged residents to remain vigilant and use the 110 hotline if needed.

Police Name Two Suspects in Illegal Mining Case in Lebak

Lebak Police have named two suspects in connection with illegal gold and sea sand mining operations in Lebak Regency, Banten. The suspects, identified by the initials AS and S, are alleged to have owned the mining activities, which police say have caused environmental damage. Authorities have seized evidence from two locations and are continuing to investigate possible involvement of other parties.

Prabowo to host Timor-Leste president in Jakarta

President Prabowo is set to meet Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta at the Presidential Palace, with the discussion expected to focus on bilateral cooperation in higher education and research. Indonesian officials hope the visit, which may include Nobel laureates, will help strengthen the country's scientific and academic institutions.

Badung Regency explores second SMI loan for priority projects

The Badung Regency administration in Bali is exploring a second regional loan from PT Sarana Multi Infrastruktur to fund priority infrastructure projects targeted for 2027. Key proposals include an underpass to avoid land acquisition conflicts on the Gatot Subroto Barat link road and electronic road pricing on the Gatsu-Canggu-Munggu corridor. The regency is also considering involving a regional-owned enterprise to manage the paid express route, with existing public roads remaining free.

Police battle wildfire on Mount Semeru in East Java

Joint teams led by Lumajang police are manually fighting wildfires on Mount Semeru, focusing on two areas where steep terrain and strong winds are hampering efforts. All 172 hikers from Ranu Kumbolo have been safely evacuated and the hiking route is closed. Authorities are considering helicopter-based aerial firefighting to support ground crews.

South Sulawesi Police cyber unit arrests online fraudsters in Parepare

The South Sulawesi Regional Police's cyber crime unit has arrested six suspects in Parepare for running an online fraud operation known as 'Passobis'. The suspects allegedly lured victims through fake social media advertisements offering cheap iPhones, then posed as courier and customs officials to extract additional payments. Police are continuing to investigate the possibility of further victims and accomplices.

Disabled Elderly Man Removed from PKH and Listed in Decile 10, Yogyakarta Social Agency Responds

A 70-year-old disabled man in Yogyakarta has been removed from the Family Hope Programme (PKH) after his household was registered as single-person, in line with central government policy. The Yogyakarta Social Agency says it cannot intervene in the Ministry of Social Affairs' rules but will explore alternative social assistance for him. Suwarno is also puzzled by his classification in decile 10, which local officials have been unable to explain.

Saudi Arabia Stirs Controversy with Death Sentence for Hadith Scholar al-Tarifi After 10 Years in Prison

Saudi prosecutors have reportedly sought the death penalty for prominent hadith scholar Abdul Aziz al-Tarifi, who has been held in isolation for over a decade. Human rights group ALQST has expressed concern over the case, noting uncertainty about whether prosecutors are still actively pursuing capital punishment. The case forms part of a broader pattern of harsh legal action against religious figures and journalists in the kingdom.

Firefighters battle blaze near homes, school in South Sulawesi

A wildfire covering roughly three hectares near a school and residential area in South Sulawesi has reignited after initially being brought under control, with joint teams still battling the blaze amid difficult access and weather conditions. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has called for greater vigilance around public facilities and urged local governments to anticipate drought impacts on water and food supplies, particularly in remote mountainous areas.

Sido Muncul Distributes Rp400 Million in Aid for Nusa Tenggara Timur Earthquake Victims, Partnering with BPOM and KPPPA

PT Industri Jamu Dan Farmasi Sido Muncul Tbk has distributed Rp400 million in humanitarian aid to support recovery efforts following the earthquake in Nusa Tenggara Timur. The assistance was channelled through the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) and the Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection (KPPPA). The company's president director indicated that further support, including orthopaedic specialists, is being planned for the affected communities.

Salesforce and Anthropic Launch Claudeforce AI CRM Integration

Salesforce and Anthropic have announced Claudeforce, a strategic partnership expansion that embeds Claude's advanced reasoning capabilities into Salesforce's business ecosystem. The integration aims to transform how companies manage data, workflows, and customer interactions through trusted AI. The collaboration includes a Salesforce plugin for Claude with 37 ready-made sales skills and deeper infrastructure integration across both platforms.

Credit Grows 9.8%, Bank Lampung Posts Rp133 Billion Profit in First Half of 2026

Bank Lampung recorded a 9.8% increase in lending during the first half of 2026, driving net profit up 22.75% to Rp133 billion. The bank's president director attributed the performance to improved funding structure and efficiency rather than aggressive expansion. He noted that MSMEs in food supply chains, such as cassava, coffee, and fisheries, have shown resilience amid high interest rates.

YIS Entrepreneurship Training Yields Orders, Participants Earn Millions of Rupiah from Frozen Food

A women's empowerment programme run by Yayasan Indonesia Setara (YIS) has begun delivering tangible results, with participants in Ciawi and Depok securing hundreds of pre-orders for frozen food products. Founder Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno emphasised that the training aims to build entrepreneurial confidence, not just technical skills. The initiative demonstrates how skills training combined with market access can generate immediate income for participants.

IDX Launches Green Equity Designation, Why It Matters for Indonesia

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has introduced the IDX Green Equity Designation, marking a new era for sustainable investment in the domestic stock market. The designation aims to help investors identify companies contributing to the green economy, with three companies receiving the first designations. The move is expected to channel more capital into green and transition activities, supporting Indonesia's shift towards a low-carbon economy.

National Police Chief Listyo Sigit Prabowo Appointed Honorary Member of KSBSI

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has been appointed an Honorary Member of the Confederation of All Indonesian Workers' Unions (KSBSI) during the organisation's 2026 National Working Meeting. The appointment was one of six decisions reached at the meeting, which also addressed labour issues being advocated in the House of Representatives and recommendations for revising ministerial regulations. KSBSI President Elly Rosita Silaban announced the decision at the Grand Sahid Jaya Hotel in Central Jakarta.

Hundreds of Paintings of NU Founders Exhibited at 35th NU Congress

The 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Congress in Jombang features an art exhibition displaying around 100 large paintings of the organisation's founders. The collection, described as one of the most complete depictions of NU's founding figures, includes portraits of KH Hasyim Asy'ari, KH Abdul Wahab Hasbullah, and KH Bisri Syansuri. The exhibition was initiated by three painters from Central Java.

RI, Japan's Yamaguchi strengthen technical internship cooperation

Indonesia and Japan's Yamaguchi prefecture have signed a memorandum of cooperation to expand technical internship placements for Indonesian workers, including information sharing and participant protection. The agreement aims to support career development and independence for returning interns while aligning with Japan's upcoming Employment for Skill Development programme. The government hopes the partnership will produce concrete programmes benefiting workers, companies, and communities in both countries.

Timor-Leste President Praises Indonesia: Muslim Majority, yet Catholics Live in Peace

Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta has praised Indonesia's religious tolerance and harmony, describing it as an example for the world. Speaking at the Megawati Institute in Jakarta, he highlighted that Indonesia, despite having the world's largest Muslim population, is also home to tens of millions of Catholics and Protestants living peacefully together. He also commended the resilience and warmth of the Indonesian people in the face of repeated natural disasters.

DPR Opens Public Input Channel on Asset Forfeiture Bill

The House of Representatives (DPR) has confirmed that public consultation on the Asset Forfeiture Bill remains open, with citizens encouraged to submit their views through official parliamentary hearings. Deputy Speaker Saan Mustopa stated that the bill is targeted for enactment by 15 December 2026, in line with a commitment affirmed at a recent plenary session. The DPR has also called on the public to monitor the deliberation process to ensure the deadline is met.

BPJS Kesehatan ensures JKN participants receive services without additional costs

BPJS Kesehatan President Director Prihati Pujowaskito has reaffirmed that participants in the National Health Insurance (JKN) programme are protected from out-of-pocket costs for covered services. During a visit to Batam's RSBP hospital, he emphasised a shift from volume-based to value-based healthcare financing. Hospital management also reported a 14.13 per cent increase in revenue, driven partly by BPJS Kesehatan services.

BI hopes bank liquidity is distributed more evenly through KLM PPU

Bank Indonesia is introducing a new macroprudential liquidity incentive policy to encourage more even distribution of liquidity across banks. The policy targets banks holding high proportions of government securities and SRBI instruments, aiming to redirect these holdings towards credit intermediation. The incentive will take effect on 1 September 2026.

81 Years of (Not Yet) Economic Independence

An economist argues that President Prabowo's state address, while highlighting achievements such as food self-sufficiency and transformative policies, does not yet demonstrate true economic independence. The article contends that genuine economic freedom requires liberation from colonial-era economic structures and alignment with Indonesia's national character.

Police manage traffic on Trans Sulawesi route in Parimo due to flooding

Flooding and landslides in Parigi Moutong, Central Sulawesi, temporarily paralysed traffic on the Trans Sulawesi route, with police now directing one-way flow as clearance work continues. The disaster affected four villages and caused six landslide points along the road, with no alternative route available. Authorities have deployed 21 police personnel and urged motorists to exercise caution due to muddy and wet road surfaces.

BGN: Elite Private Schools No Longer Receive MBG

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has excluded approximately 80 elite private schools nationwide from the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, citing that they no longer require state assistance. The move is part of efforts to ensure the programme's beneficiaries are accurately targeted and that state budget allocation remains effective. Boarding schools with their own nutrition programmes are also excluded from the scheme.

BPJPH strengthens business education ahead of Halal Mandatory implementation

Indonesia's Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) is intensifying education and outreach for businesses ahead of the October 2026 mandatory halal certification deadline. The agency has outlined a tiered sanctions system ranging from written warnings to product recalls, and is deploying hundreds of inspectors to monitor both domestic production and imported goods. The measures aim to ensure compliance with halal regulations and protect consumers across Indonesia.

Purbaya Exposes Rp10 Trillion Tax Debt in Chinese Steel and Building Materials Businesses

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has revealed that tax evasion by foreign businesses, particularly Chinese companies in the steel and building materials sectors, has caused potential state revenue losses exceeding Rp10 trillion. The government plans to resolve the issue by 2027 to improve state revenue and boost the competitiveness of domestic industries.

Pertamina Ready to Lead Development of Carbon Capture Storage Ecosystem

PT Pertamina (Persero) has reaffirmed its commitment to spearheading the development of Indonesia's carbon capture and storage (CCS/CCUS) ecosystem as part of its Dual Growth Strategy. The state-owned energy company has identified 13 study locations with a potential CO2 storage capacity of 7.3 gigatonnes, including the Asri Basin CCS Hub with 2.9 gigatonnes of capacity. Pertamina is calling for cross-industry collaboration, clear project financing schemes, and regulatory support to accelerate a commercially viable CCS ecosystem.

Megawati Calls for Overhaul of UN Security Council Structure

Former Indonesian president Megawati Soekarnoputri has urged reform of the UN Security Council, arguing that its structure should include countries that gained independence after the Second World War. Speaking at a forum of Nobel laureates in Jakarta, she questioned why the UN has been unable to resolve ongoing wars. The event was co-initiated with Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta.

Viral Claim of Sumedang Deputy Regent Assaulting and Harassing Personal Secretary: Here Are the Facts

A viral social media claim alleging that Sumedang Deputy Regent Fajar Aldila assaulted and harassed his personal secretary has been denied by the alleged victim. The secretary, identified only as R, stated that no assault, confinement, or harassment occurred and urged the public not to spread unverified information.

Apologising for Not Running for PBNU Chairman, Nasaruddin Umar: Better to Concentrate on Religious Affairs Ministry

Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar has announced he will not contest the chairmanship of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) at its 35th Congress, citing the heavy responsibilities of his ministerial role. He apologised to supporters who had hoped he would lead the organisation. The minister said he would continue to focus on assisting President Prabowo Subianto in fostering religious life and harmony.

Two KKN Students Flee After Being Caught in Same-Sex Intimacy, Chased by Residents

Two male university students undertaking a community service programme (KKN) in Cianjur, West Java, were chased and detained by local residents after being seen engaging in same-sex intimacy outside a closed food stall. The incident occurred on Thursday evening, with residents expressing strong disapproval and handing the students over to police. Authorities have transferred the pair to the Cianjur Police headquarters for further investigation.

Instagram Surrenders, Undergoes Total Change After Government Pressure

Meta has agreed to limit teenage users' access to its platforms in the United States, including a default two-hour daily cap for under-18s and a US$18 billion settlement. The move has prompted reactions from Australia, South Korea, the Philippines, and Brazil, with regulators urging similar protections worldwide.

Thailand Brings 9 Franchises to IFRA 2026, Targets Indonesia's Middle-Class Market

Thailand's Department of International Trade Promotion brought nine franchise businesses to the IFRA 2026 expo in Tangerang, aiming to tap into Indonesia's growing middle-class market. The delegation, which includes five food and beverage brands, is prepared to obtain Indonesian halal certification to meet local requirements. DITP is facilitating business matching between Thai entrepreneurs and potential Indonesian investors.

Trump Claims Control of Strait of Hormuz, Millions of Barrels of Oil Flowing

US President Donald Trump has asserted that the Strait of Hormuz is open and under American control, with millions of barrels of oil passing through daily despite ongoing conflict with Iran. He claimed US forces have cleared the strategic waterway of mines and are escorting vessels through it. Trump also stated that Iran is unable to transport goods through the strait due to a US maritime blockade.

Gus Ipul Says Two Issues Could Spark Debate at NU Congress

Saifullah Yusuf, chairman of the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress organising committee, has identified two issues likely to generate dynamic debate: the election mechanism for the PBNU chairman and rules on concurrent positions within the organisation. He noted that all draft materials have undergone a tiered discussion process, including at the National Conference of Religious Scholars and the NU Grand Conference. Gus Ipul emphasised that differences of opinion are normal in NU tradition and expressed hope that debates would remain within an atmosphere of brotherhood and joy.

Police Respond to Family of Chicken Truck Driver Assailants in Badung Seeking Peace

Police in Abiansemal, Badung, have stated they will not intervene in a potential peace agreement between five detained assailants and the victims of a violent assault on a chicken transport driver. The suspects were arrested after a video of the attack went viral, with police confirming the motive was anger over the driver's speeding near a ceremony. Authorities have handed the decision on whether to accept the reconciliation request entirely to the victims.

Government Prepares to Overhaul 3 kg LPG Subsidy Distribution Scheme in 2027

The Indonesian government plans to transform the 3 kg LPG subsidy from a commodity-based scheme to a beneficiary-based scheme starting in 2027. The policy aims to improve targeting by using population data and welfare deciles, with energy subsidies projected to rise sharply to Rp 272.9 trillion in 2027. The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is coordinating with BPS and Pertamina to implement the new distribution framework.

Near-Collapse Uninhabitable House of Grandmother in Pandeglang Now Being Rebuilt

A 75-year-old woman in Pandeglang, Banten, who had been living alone in a nearly collapsing house for three years, has finally seen construction begin on a new home. The renovation was funded through the Banten Provincial Government, the Baznas Banten zakat collection unit, and private donors. The case highlights ongoing efforts to address substandard housing for vulnerable elderly residents in the region.

MUC Sustainability Connect Becomes a Collaboration Space from Compliance to Impact

Environment Minister Mohammad Jumhur Hidayat has emphasised that collaboration is key to translating ESG commitments into tangible impact. Speaking at the MUC Sustainability Connect 1.0 event, he highlighted how tax regulation updates and mangrove planting can jointly strengthen corporate governance and environmental stewardship. The event combined a tax regulation session on PMK 44/2026 with the planting of 270 mangrove seedlings in North Jakarta.

Pertamina Eco RunFest 2026 Unveils Eco-Friendly Jersey

Pertamina Eco RunFest 2026 has partnered with local sportswear brand Manta Liberta to produce an eco-friendly jersey made from recycled plastic bottles. The initiative is part of the event's broader sustainability drive, which includes seven environmental programmes. The event is scheduled for 6 December 2026 at Senayan, Jakarta.

Indonesian Air Force deploys personnel to extinguish land fires in Balikpapan

The Indonesian Air Force has deployed 50 personnel and two fire engines from Lanud Dhomber to tackle land fires in Balikpapan, South Kalimantan. The operation was coordinated with local disaster agencies, police, military command, and volunteers to prevent the fires from spreading further. The Air Force has confirmed its personnel remain on standby for future land fire incidents in the region.

Tourism Minister: Tourism development must ensure environmental sustainability

Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana has stressed that Indonesia's tourism development must deliver benefits to local communities, protect the environment, and enhance visitor experiences. The Ministry is collaborating with the Indonesia Sustainable Tourism Council to hold the fifth Sustainable Tourism Development Forum, focusing on quality and sustainable tourism. Academics have also called for a shift from extractive mass tourism towards a more adaptive tourism ecosystem.

PLN Energi Gas strengthens energy infrastructure security in Tanjung Batu

PT PLN Energi Gas has signed a technical work guideline with the East Kalimantan Regional Police to bolster security at its Tanjung Batu unit in Samarinda. The agreement includes an evaluation of security services for 2026, aimed at ensuring safe and reliable energy operations. The collaboration underscores the strategic role of the Tanjung Batu facility in supporting the energy supply chain and power generation reliability.

NTB BPBD incorporates disaster resilience into Sade Traditional Hamlet reconstruction

The West Nusa Tenggara Regional Disaster Management Agency has confirmed that disaster resilience will be a key component of the rehabilitation and reconstruction of Sade Traditional Hamlet in Central Lombok following a fire. The reconstruction will not only rebuild affected traditional houses but also improve fire engine access and overall preparedness. University teams are assisting the government in planning the recovery of the culturally significant Sasak heritage site.

Indonesia backs China, Nepal rescue efforts after deadly floods

Indonesia has expressed its condolences and pledged support for rescue and post-disaster efforts following deadly flash floods on the China-Nepal border. The Foreign Ministry is monitoring the safety of Indonesians in the affected areas through its embassies in Beijing and Dhaka, with no reports of Indonesian casualties so far. Authorities believe the floods may have been triggered by glacial melting in the Himalayas.

Megawati Proposes UN Security Council Restructuring, Questions Unresolved Wars

Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri has called for restructuring the United Nations Security Council, arguing its post-World War II framework no longer reflects current global realities. Speaking at the Megawati Institute, she urged that nations which were not yet independent when the UN was founded should now be given a place on the Council. She also questioned the UN's inability to resolve ongoing conflicts and emphasised the need for international law to govern technological advancement for the benefit of civilisation.

Jakarta offers 37 investment projects worth Rp115 trillion at JIF Summit 2026

The Jakarta provincial government has presented 37 strategic investment projects with an indicative value of Rp115 trillion at the Jakarta Investment Festival Summit 2026. Governor Pramono Anung highlighted Jakarta's economic resilience, with growth of 5.52 per cent in the first half of 2026 and realised investment of Rp173.6 trillion. He said the city's improved global ranking and strong fundamentals should translate into long-term investment opportunities.

New Problem Threatens Indonesian Manufacturing, What Is the Cure?

Indonesian manufacturers are facing rising logistics and freight costs, which are now a bigger constraint than raw material prices. High transport expenses, estimated at 30-40% of production costs, are also making imports more expensive and prompting businesses to adopt a wait-and-see approach. Lawmakers are urging the government to regulate logistics tariffs and reduce energy costs to improve Indonesia's manufacturing competitiveness.