Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 28 August 2026

Showing 851-900 of 1,420 articles

Two Same-Sex KKN Students Arrested While Being Intimate in Cianjur

Two male university students undertaking a community service programme (KKN) in Cianjur, West Java, were detained by residents after being caught engaging in intimate behaviour in public. The incident occurred near a closed food stall and led to a citizen pursuit before the students were handed over to police. Authorities have transferred the pair to the Cianjur Police headquarters for further investigation.

Ministry of Housing and Settlement to renovate 2,000 uninhabitable homes in North Jakarta

The Ministry of Housing and Settlement (PKP) will renovate 2,000 uninhabitable homes in North Jakarta under the Home Renovation Programme starting September 2026. Minister Maruarar Sirait inspected sites in Cilincing and confirmed that 10,300 homes nationwide will be renovated this year. Each recipient will receive Rp20 million, with the programme streamlined from 24 stages to 10 to accelerate distribution.

Market Views 6% Economic Growth Target in 2027 as "Very" Optimistic

Market participants consider the 6% economic growth target in the 2027 State Budget Draft (RAPBN) to be very optimistic. Panin Asset Management Director Rudiyanto highlights that the main challenge is how the government will realise this target, given budget constraints and the need for investor confidence. He suggests that government projects should be managed by the private sector with healthy margins and good governance.

Minister Maman Ensures Rp 1.2 Trillion Presidential Aid for Disaster-Affected MSMEs Is Well Targeted

Minister of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Maman Abdurrahman has confirmed that more than Rp 1.2 trillion in Presidential Assistance will be distributed in stages during 2026 and 2027 to support micro enterprises affected by disasters in Sumatra. The aid will be provided as a cash grant of Rp 3 million per recipient, targeting over 400,000 MSMEs that have not accessed bank credit. The ministry is implementing layered data verification through the SAPA UMKM system to ensure the assistance reaches the intended beneficiaries.

KPK summons five witnesses in Bali Customs corruption case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned five private-sector witnesses for questioning in Bali as part of its investigation into alleged corruption within the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. The case has already seen multiple customs officials and private company figures named as suspects. The investigation continues to expand, with the KPK issuing two investigation warrants in July 2026.

BNPB: Residents displaced and farmers suffer crop failure due to drought in Nduga

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has confirmed that a prolonged drought in Nduga Regency, Papua Pegunungan, has forced some residents to flee their homes and caused widespread crop failure. The disaster has affected two main areas, with 2,325 hectares of farmland failing, triggering food shortages. The BNPB has urged local authorities to accelerate rapid assessments to guide emergency relief interventions.

Indonesian Air Force Clarifies F-16 Flights Over Jakarta Were Training for Merdeka Run Event

The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) has clarified that three F-16 fighter jets seen flying over Jakarta on Friday morning were conducting a training flight combined with the Merdeka Run event to commemorate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The aircraft departed from Iswahjudi Air Force Base and landed at Halim Perdanakusuma, with a flypast scheduled for Saturday. The Merdeka Run is an 8-kilometre running competition organised by the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

Ministry of Industry Opens Registration for 2026 Green Industry Award

Indonesia's Ministry of Industry has opened registration for the 2026 Green Industry Award, continuing its programme to recognise manufacturers committed to sustainable production. Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita emphasised that green industry practices are a long-term investment strategy to boost efficiency and competitiveness. Since 2010, the award has recognised over 1,100 companies across various manufacturing sectors.

Viral Video of Motorcyclist Allegedly Carrying Pistol in Dongkelan Bantul, Police Investigate

A social media post showing a motorcycle passenger allegedly carrying a pistol-like object at the Dongkelan intersection in Sewon, Bantul, has gone viral. Bantul Police and Sewon Police have confirmed they are investigating the incident to verify the authenticity of the weapon and identify the individual involved.

Pertamina Ready to Lead Development of Carbon Capture Storage Ecosystem in Indonesia

PT Pertamina (Persero) has reaffirmed its commitment to spearhead the development of carbon capture and storage (CCS) and carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS) ecosystems in Indonesia. The initiative forms a key part of the company's Dual Growth Strategy, aimed at supporting the national Net Zero Emission target by 2060 or sooner. The strategy aligns with the Asta Cita agenda of the President of the Republic of Indonesia.

Dasco's Courage in Taking Political Decisions Proves DPR Is Present for the People

Muhammad Burhanuddin of GAN and FORNAS 08 has praised Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad for directly engaging protesters at the Parliament Complex and offering concrete responses. Dasco's willingness to open dialogue and even pledge to resign if the Asset Forfeiture Bill is not passed by December 2026 is seen as a bold, pro-people political move. The organisations hope this leadership style becomes a new standard for public officials.

Ajaib Secures Rp4.8 Trillion from Japan Amid Drying Startup Investment in Indonesia

Indonesian fintech firm Ajaib has secured a strategic investment of US$270 million (approximately Rp4.8 trillion) from Japanese financial services giant SBI Holdings, marking the largest funding round for an Indonesian technology company in over four years. The deal brings Ajaib's total funds raised since its founding to more than US$500 million. The investment is seen as a sign of continued confidence in Indonesia's digital industry despite a broader slowdown in tech funding.

Truck Carrying 10 Tonnes of Chicken Feed Crashes into Bridge, Badly Damaged

A truck transporting approximately 10 tonnes of chicken feed crashed into the wall and steel barrier of Sangiang Bridge in West Bandung Regency after reportedly losing control. The driver sustained minor injuries and has received medical treatment. Police are investigating the single-vehicle accident, which occurred early on Thursday morning.

Hosting Danantara Housing Expo 2026, NICE PIK 2 Marks One Year of Operation with Massive-Scale Facilities

Nusantara International Convention Exhibition (NICE) at PIK 2 has been confirmed as the venue for the Danantara Housing Expo 2026, scheduled for 27–30 August 2026. The event coincides with the venue's first anniversary of soft opening and is seen as validation of its operational maturity. NICE management says the expo demonstrates the facility's readiness to host large-scale exhibitions and strengthens its position in the MICE industry.

Indonesia's consumer agency urges tax relief for retirees

Indonesia's National Consumer Protection Agency (BPKN) has called on the government to introduce tax relief or exemptions for retirees who meet certain criteria, citing data showing that nearly half of elderly Indonesians depend on family members for financial support. BPKN Chairman Mufti Mubarok argued that working beyond retirement age should be a choice rather than a necessity, and urged policies that both create opportunities for retirees who can still work and protect those who cannot. He stressed that the state must provide protection and certainty for people who have contributed to the country throughout their lives.

KPK Summons Denpasar Immigration Chief in Silmy Karim Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned the head of the Denpasar immigration office and two other officials as witnesses in a case involving alleged extortion over residence permits for foreign nationals. The case implicates Deputy Minister of Immigration and Corrections Silmy Karim, with the KPK having seized assets worth around Rp150 billion. Investigators are also probing potential money laundering, as some assets were registered under other people's names.

From Plastic and Textile Waste, This Is the Eco Jersey for Pertamina Eco RunFest 2026

Pertamina Eco RunFest 2026 has partnered with local sportswear brand Manta Liberta to produce eco-friendly jerseys made from recycled plastic bottles and textile waste. The initiative is projected to absorb up to 210,000 plastic bottles, or 2.5 tonnes of waste, as part of Pertamina's commitment to sustainable event management. The jerseys feature anti-bacterial, anti-odour and moisture-wicking properties, demonstrating how cross-sector collaboration can give new life to discarded materials.

IDX: Rp1 share price trial successful, 8 exchange members yet to participate

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has reported that its trial of lowering the minimum share price from Rp50 to Rp1 has been largely successful, though eight exchange members have not yet taken part. The bourse plans to follow up with these members in the next trial round before full implementation on 7 September 2026. The policy aims to improve liquidity and price discovery in the regular and cash markets.

US Intelligence Fears Putin May Test NATO, Is the Iran War Washington's Weak Point?

US intelligence agencies are increasingly concerned that Russia may test NATO's defences, possibly through hybrid operations or limited incursions on the alliance's eastern flank. The concerns follow a rare visit by CIA Director John Ratcliffe to Moscow and come as the US military's precision missile stockpiles are severely depleted by the war with Iran. The situation raises questions about Washington's ability to honour its European defence commitments while engaged in a major Middle East conflict.

Breaking: Iran Announces Absolute Conditions to US for Reopening Strait of Hormuz

Iran has set absolute conditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, including an end to the war in the Middle East. Mohsen Rezaei, Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, stated that any agreement with the United States must include a halt to military operations in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria. Meanwhile, the US has shifted its focus from military action to economic pressure against Tehran.

Indonesian Crypto Investors Reach 22.69 Million, Bittime Stresses Ecosystem Strengthening

Indonesia's crypto investor base has grown to 22.69 million as of June 2026, with transaction values hitting Rp28.58 trillion. Bittime's Operations Director Ryan Lymn argues that regulation, innovation, and consumer protection must advance together for sustainable industry growth. The company has launched Bittime Futures after securing a licence under OJK supervision, targeting a tenfold increase in trading volume in its first year.

Consumer spending patterns key to Harbolnas success, analyst says

University of Indonesia economist Heru Sutadi argues that shifting consumer behaviour will determine the success of this year's National Online Shopping Day (Harbolnas), with shoppers becoming more selective and price-sensitive. He cautions that rising e-commerce transactions do not necessarily indicate stronger purchasing power, and urges the programme to shift from chasing transaction volumes towards creating value for consumers and local businesses.

First Day of Danantara Housing Expo: 10,000 Visitors and 300 Mortgage Agreements

The Danantara Housing Expo attracted around 10,000 visitors on its opening day at NICE, PIK 2, with 300 mortgage agreements signed. The event supports President Prabowo Subianto's programme to build 3 million homes, offering subsidised interest rates from 2.75% with tenors up to 40 years. CEO Rosan P. Roeslani highlighted that 9.29 million households still lack home ownership, underscoring the priority of affordable housing.

Batang guarantees farmers' water needs remain secure amid industrial growth

The Batang Regency administration has assured that irrigation water for farmers will remain a priority despite rapid industrial expansion. Deputy Regent Suyono stated that two dams have been designed to reserve water for agricultural use, with industrial water drawn from downstream sections. The local government also pledged to protect approximately 17,000 hectares of rice fields in line with spatial planning regulations.

BTC rises again, investors reminded to watch market dynamics

Bitcoin has surged past US$80,000, driven by US Treasury buyback policies and renewed inflows into spot Bitcoin ETFs. Indodax's Chief Marketing Officer Aloysia Dian cautioned that the rapid rally requires disciplined risk management, particularly for investors re-entering the market. Market sentiment indicators have turned optimistic, but volatility risks remain elevated.

Dony Oskaria's Big Targets at Danantara: Resolving SOE Debt, Boosting Profits

BPI Danantara plans to reduce the number of state-owned enterprises from 1,074 to 254 by the end of 2026 through consolidation and business model reforms. The agency is also tackling Rp180 trillion in debt at construction SOEs and a Rp9.5 trillion accounting correction at PT Pos Indonesia. Chief Operating Officer Dony Oskaria has pledged that the transformation will not involve layoffs.

Indonesia targets priority lake restoration for water security

Indonesia's Environment Minister has announced a renewed push to restore 15 National Priority Lakes between 2025 and 2029, citing their critical role in water, food, and energy security. The plan focuses on pollution control, catchment rehabilitation, and regulating floating net cages, while calling for stronger regulations and cross-sector collaboration. The minister stressed that lake restoration requires a long-term, integrated upstream-to-downstream approach due to slow water retention times.

Universities urged to boost role in knowledge creation amid AI era

Deputy Minister Stella Christie has called on Indonesian universities to rethink their core mission as artificial intelligence transforms higher education. She argued that institutions must move beyond transmitting information and instead cultivate people capable of creating knowledge and critically assessing AI's purpose and consequences. Christie stressed that human agency should remain central, with AI serving as a tool for processing data and identifying patterns rather than replacing fundamental inquiry.

Sambeng Village Residents in Borobudur Protest Stone-Sand Mining, Ready to Sue PT Anaba

Residents of Sambeng Village in Borobudur, Magelang, have formally protested the stone and sand mining activities of PT Anaba Putra Nusantara along the Progo River, claiming the company has operated for about two years without proper permits or community consultation. They report environmental damage including riverbank abrasion, threats to village land, disruption to local tourism and fishing, and concerns over water sources. The community, backed by an advocacy group and legal aid, is preparing to take legal action against the company.

Megawati to meet Timor-Leste president, Nobel-Turing Award laureates

PDI-P chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri is set to host Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta and a delegation of Nobel and Turing Award laureates at the Megawati Institute in Jakarta. The roundtable discussion will focus on how advances in science and technology affect people and humanity, following the delegation's participation in the Science for Development Summit 2026 in Dili. The meeting underscores growing Indonesia–Timor-Leste engagement and Megawati's continued role in high-level policy dialogue.

Casino Raided by Bareskrim in Sukoharjo Located Opposite a Place of Worship

A casino raided by the Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) in Sukoharjo, Central Java, was situated directly opposite a Vihara, a Buddhist place of worship. Local residents had previously reported the gambling operation to the Sukoharjo Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) due to difficulties in proving its existence. Police seized Rp 1 billion in cash during the raid.

BGN Prioritises 3T Regions, 2,700 MBG Kitchens to Open in September

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) will begin expanding the Free Nutritious Meals programme to underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost (3T) regions starting September 2026. Approximately 2,700 kitchens are ready to operate in the first wave, with priority given to areas that have not yet been reached by the programme. The expansion will be funded within the existing 2026 budget without additional allocation.

Indef says DSI strengthens Indonesia's bargaining power and boosts foreign exchange

The Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (Indef) has welcomed the establishment of PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI), saying it could strengthen Indonesia's bargaining position in global markets and increase export proceeds. Executive Director Esther Sri Astuti noted that DSI's goals of integrating export data and curbing under-invoicing are positive, provided the entity is managed with good governance. She cautioned that DSI would require substantial capital and transparent, efficient mechanisms to avoid hampering business activity.

BNPB: Personnel battle forest and land fires near SMA 3 Barru, South Sulawesi

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has confirmed that joint firefighting teams are still working to extinguish forest and land fires near residential areas and a school in Barru Regency, South Sulawesi. The fire, which covers approximately three hectares, was initially brought under control but reignited and spread to the area around SMA Negeri 3 Barru. Officials have urged local governments to anticipate the impacts of drought on water and food availability, particularly for vulnerable communities in mountainous areas.

Bulog Sorong distributes 5,000 kg of SPHP rice daily to 190 partners

Perum Bulog's Sorong branch in Southwest Papua distributes approximately 5,000 kg of Stabilisation of Food Supply and Prices (SPHP) rice daily to 190 partners across four regencies. The rice is repackaged from 50 kg sacks into 5 kg SPHP bags at a rate of 35–50 tonnes per day, with weekly distribution reaching 120–150 tonnes. The programme aims to maintain rice price stability and ensure continuous stock availability in the region.

PLN ready to absorb and distribute 223 thousand MWh of electricity from Bekasi waste

State electricity company PLN will purchase and distribute 223,584 MWh of electricity annually from the Bekasi waste-to-energy plant in West Java. The facility, developed with Danantara Indonesia, is expected to begin operations in mid-2028 and process up to 1,500 tonnes of waste per day. PLN's president director emphasised that the primary goal is a cleaner environment, with electricity as a by-product.

Riau Police: Most Forest and Land Fires Deliberately Set to Open Oil Palm Plantations

Riau Regional Police have revealed that the majority of 37 forest and land fire cases across the province in 2026 were deliberately started to clear land for oil palm plantations and other horticultural businesses. A total of 40 suspects have been named, with investigators applying environmental, forestry, and criminal laws. Police emphasised that law enforcement is part of an integrated strategy combining prevention, patrols, early detection, and fire suppression.

Govt builds inflatable field hospitals in quake-hit East Nusa Tenggara

The Indonesian Health Ministry has established inflatable field hospitals in East Nusa Tenggara after the 7.7 magnitude earthquake damaged health facilities, displacing over 185,000 residents. The emergency response includes deploying 285 medical volunteers and monitoring disease outbreaks in evacuation shelters, with acute respiratory infections and potential rabies exposures among the key health concerns.

NU's diplomatic framework in facing world multipolarity

As formal state diplomacy often reaches deadlock due to sovereignty claims, Nahdlatul Ulama is pursuing second-track diplomacy. The organisation, representing over 100 million people, is leveraging its moral authority and pesantren scholarly tradition as soft power amid a fragmenting global order. Its proactive response to the 2026 US-Iran escalation in the Middle East demonstrates NU's emerging role as a bridge for dialogue between rival great powers.

Bima City Government Sends Volunteers, Logistics, and Vehicles to Aid NTT Earthquake Victims

The Bima City Government in West Nusa Tenggara has dispatched humanitarian aid to earthquake victims on Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara. The assistance includes 20 health workers, 3 social service personnel, 5 tonnes of rice, and 10 off-road vehicles valued at Rp 250 million in total. The team will focus on hard-to-reach areas across several regencies in NTT.

CIA Chief Makes Surprise Visit to Moscow, Putin Warned Over NATO

CIA Director John Ratcliffe made an unannounced visit to Moscow this week, carrying messages for Russia including a warning against any attack on NATO territory. The trip also aimed to press Moscow to halt economic and military support for Iran amid US efforts to pressure Tehran financially. The visit comes as Western intelligence assessments suggest Russia may test NATO's resolve in the coming years.

OJK signals revision of PPDP growth target for 2026

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has indicated it may revise its 2026 growth targets for the insurance, guarantee, and pension fund (PPDP) sector amid weak investment performance and declining purchasing power. Total PPDP assets grew only 0.37 per cent year-to-date as of July 2026, while investment values contracted slightly. The regulator noted that insurance and pension products have become a secondary priority for households under current economic pressures.

Doctor Reminds Importance of Early Fertility Checks

A leading Indonesian fertility specialist has urged couples to assess their reproductive health early as part of pregnancy planning, rather than waiting until they face difficulties conceiving. Professor Budi Wiweko emphasised that early diagnosis expands treatment options and that IVF success depends on multiple factors beyond age. He highlighted a couple's nine-year struggle that was resolved only after comprehensive evaluation identified the underlying cause.

IDX Launches Green Equity Designation, HGII, KEEN, and TOBA Become First Three Green Stocks

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has officially launched its IDX Green Equity Designation, naming three listed companies as the first recipients. The initiative aims to provide investors with a credible reference for identifying companies contributing to the green economy and low-carbon transition. The designation will be evaluated annually to ensure it reflects companies' ongoing activities.

Manpower Ministry strengthens Indonesian technical internship programme in Yamaguchi, Japan

Indonesia's Manpower Ministry has signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with Yamaguchi Prefecture to expand the technical internship programme for Indonesian workers in Japan. The agreement aims to improve participant protection, information sharing, and career development for interns returning to Indonesia. Both sides expect the cooperation to align with Japan's upcoming Employment for Skill Development policy.

KAI Prepares Phased Gambir Transformation, Strengthens Long-Distance Rail Access and Central Jakarta Transport Integration

State railway operator PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) is moving forward with a phased redevelopment of Gambir Station in central Jakarta to reinforce its role as the main gateway for long-distance train travel. The plan aims to integrate long-distance rail, KRL commuter lines, MRT, and BRT services while enhancing passenger experience and connectivity to the Monas area. KAI reported 3.87 million passenger movements at Gambir between January and July 2026, underscoring the station's strategic importance amid rising Jabodetabek commuter volumes.

Pramono bans padel courts operating without PBG permit

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has prohibited padel courts from operating without a Building Approval (PBG), vowing fair enforcement even for facilities managed by former city hall civil servants. The move follows the re-sealing of a padel court under construction on land owned by the Jakarta provincial government in Meruya Utara, West Jakarta.

PLN completes post-earthquake electricity infrastructure assessment in Flores

State electricity company PLN has completed a comprehensive assessment of all electricity infrastructure on Flores Island following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake. The inspection covered substations and high-voltage transmission networks to ensure safety and reliability before system normalisation. Cross-unit teams from across Indonesia were deployed to support the recovery effort.

Pertamina Successfully Produces 5.3 Million Cubic Feet of Gas in Sanga-Sanga

PT Pertamina Hulu Sanga Sanga (PHSS) has reported positive production test results from two new wells, SEM-206 and SEM-207, in the Semberah Structure of the Sanga-Sanga Working Area in East Kalimantan. The wells exceeded initial targets, with SEM-206 producing 5.3 million standard cubic feet of gas per day and 706 barrels of condensate per day. The achievement underscores the company's commitment to sustaining national energy security through investment in mature oil and gas fields.

Barbaric Act: Four Youths in Sleman Shoot Student with Airsoft Gun for Content

Four youths in Sleman, Yogyakarta, randomly shot a 17-year-old student with an airsoft gun in the early hours of 2 August, allegedly to create content for their peers. One suspect has been arrested, while three others remain at large. Police believe the attack was unprovoked and recorded by the perpetrators.