Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 28 August 2026

Showing 1,301-1,350 of 1,420 articles

Internet cables cause accidents, Jembrana prepares regulation

The Jembrana Regency administration in Bali is drafting a regulation to address the disorderly and hazardous installation of internet cable networks, which have caused accidents and drawn public complaints. The planned rules will establish a legal basis for shared network infrastructure among operators to improve safety and aesthetics. The move follows incidents including a motorcyclist suffering a broken leg after being entangled in a low-hanging cable.

Early Signs of Kidney Disease Often Mistaken for GERD/Acid Reflux

Kidney disease is a leading cause of death in Indonesia, with 1.5 million kidney failure patients recorded in 2023 and treatment costs reaching Rp2.92 trillion. Kidney stones, one of the most common kidney problems, often go unnoticed until they move into the ureter, causing severe pain that is frequently misdiagnosed as acid reflux or food poisoning. Medical experts highlight key differences in symptoms to help patients seek appropriate treatment.

After Fire, Pertamina Provides Emergency Classrooms in Bengkulu

PT Pertamina (Persero), through its subsidiary Pertamina Patra Niaga, has provided emergency classrooms and learning facilities at SMPN 19 in Bengkulu City following a fire that disrupted teaching activities. The assistance includes tents, desks, chairs, whiteboards, and blowers, enabling 192 students to resume normal learning. The initiative is part of the company's Corporate Social and Environmental Responsibility programme and aligns with Sustainable Development Goals on quality education and partnerships.

Hyundai unveils ambitious plans for product development and AI technology through 2030

South Korean automaker Hyundai has outlined its strategy through 2030, covering robotaxi deployment, artificial intelligence, next-generation batteries, and expanded global production capacity. The company plans to begin delivering Ioniq 5-based robotaxis to Waymo in late 2026 and aims to introduce over 100 new models by 2030. Hyundai also targets significant battery cost reductions and increased local component usage in North America.

Indonesia Officially Acquires Cakir and Other Missile Systems from Turkey

Indonesia has formally acquired the Cakir missile and other missile systems from Turkish defence manufacturer Roketsan. The acquisition is part of a broader defence industry cooperation that will include establishing a joint production base between Roketsan and an Indonesian company. The Indonesian ambassador to Turkey emphasised that the procurement represents a deeper stage of industrial collaboration between the two nations.

Police: Vandalism and Arson Around Senayan Were the Work of Rioters

Jakarta Metropolitan Police have attributed the vandalism and arson near the Senayan parliamentary complex on Thursday evening to rioters rather than peaceful demonstrators. Police said the situation escalated after a legitimate protest by AMPB Pati had concluded, prompting a graduated response including water cannon. Authorities emphasised that damage to public facilities disrupts social order and public services.

PLN Deploys 42 Personnel to Support 81st Independence Day Ceremony in Yogyakarta

State electricity company PLN deployed 42 personnel and implemented a multi-layered power security scheme to ensure reliable electricity supply during the 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony at Gedung Agung, Yogyakarta. The company prepared from 11 to 18 August 2026, with the venue receiving power from three feeder sources backed by a 400 kVA generator and an 80 kVA UPS. PLN officials said the smooth operation reflected intensive coordination with local government and supporting partners.

Five Mobile SIM Service Locations in Jakarta Today, Friday 28 August

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police traffic directorate is operating mobile driving licence renewal services at five locations across the capital on Friday. The service runs from 8am to 2pm and is intended to make it easier for residents to extend their SIM A and SIM C licences. Official renewal fees are set at Rp80,000 for SIM A and Rp75,000 for SIM C under Government Regulation No. 60 of 2016.

Preserving Batukaru Forest through Customary Law

The customary village of Wongaya Gede in Tabanan, Bali, is using traditional regulations known as awig-awig to protect the Batukaru protected forest and the sacred Pura Luhur Batukaru area. The rules impose sanctions ranging from mandatory ceremonies and replanting to public shaming for illegal logging. Village leaders say the customary law serves as a social instrument to instil awareness that the forest is a heritage to be passed on to future generations.

Yogyakarta High Prosecutor's Office Awaits Full Ruling After Losing Pre-trial Motion Against Former Village Head

The Yogyakarta High Prosecutor's Office (Kejati DIY) is awaiting the complete written ruling from the Yogyakarta District Court, which granted a pre-trial motion filed by former Condongcatur village head Reno Candra Sangaji. The ruling invalidated his suspect status in a case concerning alleged misuse of village treasury land in Pringwulung, though he remains a suspect in a separate case in Gandok. The court found the prosecution failed to present the formal investigation order as evidence, rendering the subsequent state loss audit legally baseless.

Kakorlantas: A Good Journey Is Not a Fast One, but One That Arrives Safely

The Head of the Indonesian National Police Traffic Corps, Inspector General Wibowo, has urged the public not to treat speed as the primary measure of good driving. Speaking at a traffic safety event in South Tangerang, he stressed that a good journey is one that brings travellers to their destination safely. He called for greater public awareness and a shared culture of road safety amid increasingly complex traffic conditions.

Traffic in Front of DPR Building Reopened This Morning

Traffic in front of the DPR/MPR/DPD RI building in Jakarta has been reopened after being closed earlier this morning. Police remain on site to manage the flow of vehicles, with tactical vehicles still visible in the area. The closure had caused congestion as motorists were diverted via Jalan Gerbang Pemuda, Senayan.

Purbaya Reveals Indonesia's Strategy to Curb Debt Without Raising Taxes

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has outlined the government's plan to improve debt sustainability by boosting state revenue through reforms at the tax and customs directorates, rather than increasing tax rates. The strategy focuses on closing loopholes and eliminating fraud to raise the tax ratio, which remains relatively low. The announcement comes amid discussions on the 2027 state budget, which targets a lower deficit but a higher interest payment burden.

Legal roundup: Batam nightclub owner arrested, Yaqut's challenge rejected

A roundup of notable legal developments includes the arrest of Batam nightclub owner Yuwanky after he fled to Singapore, and a Jakarta court's rejection of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas's challenge in the hajj quota corruption case. The KPK also searched two regional government offices in Bogor Regency as part of an ongoing corruption investigation.

Indonesia Urges OIC to Classify Israeli Settler Violence as Terrorism

Indonesia has called on the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation to go beyond condemnation and formally categorise violence by illegal Israeli settlers in the West Bank as terrorism. Deputy Foreign Minister Muhammad Anis Matta made the appeal at the 23rd Extraordinary OIC Ministerial Conference in Jeddah, citing UN data showing escalating settler attacks, displacement of Palestinians, and accelerated settlement expansion. He argued that the OIC must pursue accountability for Israel through concrete action rather than statements alone.

Destry Damayanti Becomes First Female Governor of Bank Indonesia

Destry Damayanti has been confirmed as Governor of Bank Indonesia, becoming the first woman to hold the post definitively since the central bank was established in 1953. She was the sole candidate proposed by President Prabowo Subianto to replace Perry Warjiyo, who resigned in July 2026. Her appointment brings the number of women leading central banks worldwide to 27.

Popular yesterday: latest condition of 170 Semeru hikers and excavation of ancient tomb

A roundup of popular human-interest stories from Thursday, 28 August, covers the evacuation of 170 hikers from Mount Semeru due to a forest fire and the excavation of an ancient tomb in Tulungagung believed to date from the Hindu-Buddhist transition period during early Islamic spread. Other items include a field hospital report in East Nusa Tenggara, a renewed fire on Mount Bromo, and the cost of rebuilding two regional hospitals damaged by an earthquake.

PKB Urges Artificial Rain and More Water Bombing to Tackle Forest and Land Fires

National Awakening Party (PKB) politician Daniel Johan has called on the government to intensify artificial rain operations and water bombing to combat forest and land fires across Indonesia. He welcomed Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni's statement that rain is the most effective method, noting it answers the prayers of over three million affected residents. Johan also urged the government to prepare alternative measures, including increased water bombing and peatland restoration, where cloud seeding is not possible.

BMKG: Several major cities to see rain and haze today

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has forecast rain and reduced visibility across several major cities on Friday. The agency warned of moderate rain in Nabire and light rain in other areas, while haze and mist are expected in parts of Sumatra, Kalimantan and Papua. Residents are advised to monitor weather updates through official channels.

Tanah Abang Green Line KRL Services Return to Normal

Commuter line services on the Tanah Abang (Green Line) route have resumed normal operations after being disrupted by crowds. The first train to pass through the affected area was KA 1623 from Rangkasbitung to Tanah Abang at 06:43 WIB. Services from Serpong to Tanah Abang have also returned to normal.

Iran Threatens Oil Catastrophe and Nuclear Bombs in Retaliation Against US Sanctions

Iran has threatened severe regional and global retaliation in response to the United States' expanded economic sanctions, including blocking all oil exports from the Persian Gulf and potentially targeting European nations. Tehran is also reportedly debating withdrawal from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and reconsidering its nuclear weapons doctrine following the killing of its Supreme Leader. The escalating standoff raises the prospect of a major disruption to global energy supplies and a significant widening of the conflict.

Fatal Brawl at Cibinong Market After Man Defends Wife

A 55-year-old man was stabbed to death at Cibinong Market in Bogor Regency after intervening in a dispute over a debt collection. The victim was defending his wife, who had been kicked by the suspect while trying to break up an argument. Police arrested the 47-year-old suspect within hours of the incident.

When Education Loses Its Roots

A viral video showing a Quran memorisation challenge being rewarded with free alcohol at a Jakarta music festival has prompted reflection on the erosion of respect for sacred values in Indonesian society. The author argues that the incident reflects a broader failure of education to cultivate wisdom and moral sensitivity alongside knowledge. He calls for collective self-examination rather than simply blaming the younger generation.

Trump Introduces New Rule, US Immigrant Visas Suspended in Various Countries

The United States has temporarily suspended immigrant visa processing in multiple countries to allow consular officers to undergo training on stricter applicant screening. The move follows a federal judge's decision to strike down a previous Trump administration policy that halted visa applications from 75 countries. Applicants have expressed frustration over cancelled interviews and the financial costs incurred.

Deputy Minister of Human Rights Opens Public Forum to Formulate Human Rights Policy

The Ministry of Human Rights (KemenHAM) has held a public consultation forum involving over 100 civil society organisations to gather input for national human rights policy. Deputy Minister Mugiyanto emphasised that public participation must be meaningful, with recommendations followed up and integrated into the Government Work Plan. The ministry has committed to publishing a Public Feedback Report within 30 working days.

KKI 2026: Strengthening Indonesia's MSME Ecosystem Towards Global Markets

Bank Indonesia's Karya Kreatif Indonesia 2026 event generated Rp177.21 billion in sales and facilitated significant export and financing business matching, underscoring the resilience of Indonesian MSMEs amid global economic uncertainty. The event introduced new initiatives including support for youth-driven local brands and end-to-end ecosystem strengthening. Bank Indonesia highlighted the urgent need to improve MSME credit growth, which remains at just 1.62 percent compared to double-digit overall banking credit growth.

2026 Harbolnas Target of Rp40 Trillion to Become Year-End Economic Engine

The Indonesian government is targeting Rp40 trillion in transactions for the 2026 National Online Shopping Day (Harbolnas), up from Rp36.4 trillion last year, as a key driver of year-end consumption. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto said the event is now a national movement to strengthen domestic products, expand digital inclusion, and support equitable economic growth. The government also highlighted the role of AI and ASEAN digital economy integration in boosting local MSME competitiveness.

Politics yesterday: Asset Forfeiture Bill to NU Congress

The House of Representatives reaffirmed its commitment to pass the Asset Forfeiture Bill by 15 December 2026, following a demonstration by activists from Pati. President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka also attended the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Congress in Jombang, East Java.

Pelindo and BNN Strengthen Drug Prevention Education Among Students

State-owned port operator Pelindo has partnered with the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) to deliver anti-drug education to around 900 students across nine schools in Jakarta, Surabaya, Medan, and Makassar. The programme targets schools near Pelindo's operational areas, including SMA Negeri 18 in Tanjung Priok, as part of the company's community development efforts. Pelindo says the initiative aims to build early awareness and encourage young people to reject drugs.

Gold Prices Swing Wildly Ahead of Crucial Fed Speech

Gold prices have been highly volatile as markets await Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh's speech at the Jackson Hole symposium. Investors are seeking clues on inflation prospects and the direction of US monetary policy. The precious metal has fluctuated around the US$4,600 per troy ounce level, with market participants also weighing recent PCE inflation data and shifting expectations for interest rate moves.

Mobile SIM services available at five Jakarta locations on Friday

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police traffic directorate is operating mobile driving licence renewal services at five locations across the capital on Friday. The service covers only SIM A and SIM C renewals, with fees set at Rp80,000 and Rp75,000 respectively under Government Regulation No. 60 of 2016. Applicants must bring required documents including a valid ID card copy, original and photocopy of the old licence, and health and psychology test certificates.

Crime roundup: 201 Molotov cocktails seized ahead of protest; Febrie allegedly received Rp40 billion

Jakarta police seized 201 Molotov cocktail bottles and 39 sharp weapons ahead of a public demonstration near the DPR/MPR complex, detaining 65 people as a precautionary measure. Separately, former junior attorney general for special crimes Febrie Adriansyah is alleged to have received Rp40 billion from businessman Tan Kian in connection with the ASABRI and Jiwasraya corruption cases.

Jakarta Inner-City Toll Road Reopens This Morning

The Jakarta Inner-City Toll Road has reopened after being closed overnight due to a public demonstration near the DPR/MPR complex. Jasa Marga confirmed normal traffic flow resumed at 06:01 WIB, though congestion was reported on the Semanggi-Senayan-Pejompongan section. Motorists had been advised to use alternative routes via the Wiyoto Wiyono elevated toll road or the Jakarta Outer Ring Road.

PBNU Chairman Reminds Muktamar Participants to Set Aside Personal Interests

Nahdlatul Ulama chairman KH Yahya Cholil Staquf has urged delegates at the organisation's 35th Muktamar in Jombang to prioritise the interests of NU over personal or factional gains. He specifically warned against money politics and transactional practices in the leadership selection process. The congress, opened by President Prabowo Subianto, runs from 27 to 30 August 2026.

PPATK Releases Money Laundering Risk Assessment, New Threat List Identified

Indonesia's financial intelligence unit PPATK has published its 2026 National Risk Assessment covering money laundering, terrorist financing, and proliferation financing. The assessment identifies corruption, narcotics, and online scams as high-risk domestic threats, while flagging new risks from decentralised finance, deepfakes, and in-game virtual currencies. The document is crucial for maintaining Indonesia's FATF membership and preparing for the 2029 Mutual Evaluation Review.

Transjakarta Diverts Several Routes as Road in Front of DPR Remains Closed, Here Is the List

Transjakarta has diverted multiple bus and Mikrotrans routes due to the continued closure of roads around the DPR/MPR building. Several stops are temporarily unserved, and some corridors have suspended operations entirely. The diversions affect major routes connecting areas such as Blok M, Pluit, Ancol, and Tanah Abang.

Jakarta yesterday: Pati protesters accept DPR commitment, Transjakarta bus suspensions

Protesters from the Pati community dispersed after receiving a commitment from House of Representatives leaders regarding the Asset Forfeiture Bill. The demonstration also prompted temporary road closures, random police checks, and adjustments to Transjakarta bus services around the parliament complex.

Positive Work Culture, JLL Indonesia Achieves Great Place To Work

JLL Indonesia has received Great Place To Work certification following an independent survey of employee experience and workplace culture. The certification reflects positive employee perceptions of the company's work environment. The achievement underscores the growing importance of inclusive, collaborative, and sustainable workplace cultures in retaining talent and driving business performance.

CJIBF 2026: Purbalingga Targets Quality Investment

Purbalingga Regency is seeking to attract quality investment that benefits local communities, as highlighted at the Central Java Investment Business Forum 2026 in Jakarta. The forum, which recorded nearly Rp 19.7 trillion in investment commitments on its first day, aims to accelerate sustainable investment growth in Central Java. Deputy Regent Dimas Prasetyahani emphasised the importance of local job creation, SME strengthening, and human resource development in incoming investments.

Two Community Health Centre Employees and One Teacher in Gunungkidul Dismissed over Affairs

Three government contract workers (PPPK) in Gunungkidul Regency have been dishonourably discharged for violating civil service discipline through extramarital affairs. The dismissals, which took effect in April and August 2026, were based on Government Regulation No. 94/2021. Local officials stated the sanctions are intended to serve as a deterrent for all civil servants in the regency.

Empowerment in BRILiaN Village Sanur Kaja

State-owned Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has deployed 10 volunteers to strengthen community empowerment in Sanur Kaja, a designated BRILiaN village in Denpasar, Bali. The programme, part of the State-Owned Enterprises Volunteer Service (RBB) Batch IX 2026, focuses on five pillars: economy, education, environment, health, and food security. Activities included MSME workshops, school programmes, and donations of equipment to support local businesses and environmental management.

Trump Prepares New 'Bomb', World Not Allowed to Rest

The Trump administration is reportedly considering new tariffs on semiconductors and a range of technology products, including laptops, data centre servers, and gaming hardware. The move comes as US tech firms accelerate AI infrastructure development to compete with China. The plan is still in its early stages and may be phased in gradually.

Safety Riding Training: Korlantas Urges Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers to Become Safety Pioneers

The Indonesian National Police Traffic Corps (Korlantas) has provided safety riding training to approximately 5,350 online motorcycle taxi (ojol) drivers in South Tangerang. The initiative aims to improve driving skills, traffic ethics, and discipline among ojol drivers. Korlantas hopes the drivers will become pioneers of road safety and help reduce traffic violations and accident fatalities.

World Anxious, Indonesia Could Tremble Awaiting Fed's Crucial Speech

Indonesia's financial markets are poised for a potentially volatile session as global investors await the Federal Reserve's annual Jackson Hole symposium. The Jakarta Composite Index rebounded strongly on Thursday, while the rupiah weakened slightly against the US dollar. Market participants are closely watching for signals on US monetary policy that could ripple through emerging markets like Indonesia.

Legislator Says Health Ministry Medical Teams to Be Deployed Soon to Tackle Respiratory Infections from Forest Fires

A member of House Commission IX has said the Ministry of Health will soon deploy medical personnel to areas affected by forest and land fires following a rise in acute respiratory infection cases. The legislator also confirmed the commission will visit two affected provinces to coordinate with local governments. Health authorities in West Kotawaringin, Central Kalimantan, recorded 515 acute respiratory infection cases in a single week amid worsening haze.

PPDP Assets Grow Marginally, OJK Signals Correction to Growth Target

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has indicated it may revise its growth target for the insurance, guarantee and pension fund (PPDP) sector after assets grew only 0.37 per cent year-to-date. The sluggish performance is attributed to unrealised investment losses from capital market pressures and rising interest rates, as well as weakened public purchasing power. OJK also highlighted that Indonesia's PPDP penetration remains far behind regional peers such as Singapore and Australia.

Judge Says Former Jampidsus Febrie Received Rp 40 Billion from Tan Kian

A South Jakarta District Court judge has revealed that former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) Febrie Adriansyah allegedly received Rp 40 billion from businessman Tan Kian in connection with the ASABRI and Jiwasraya corruption cases. The judge ruled that police had sufficient preliminary evidence to conduct searches and name Febrie a suspect without the Attorney General's permission. The ruling upholds the legality of the investigation under a Constitutional Court decision that exempts serious crimes from the permit requirement.

When smoke leaves a trail

Surabaya authorities destroyed 43.2 million illegal cigarettes worth Rp64.2 billion in August 2026, highlighting the scale of Indonesia's illicit tobacco trade. The seizures point to a well-organised distribution network spanning multiple regions, with potential state revenue losses of Rp36 billion from excise, VAT and tobacco taxes.

Impact of Danantara Involvement, Petrochemical Issuers' Prospects Become More Convincing

The involvement of BPI Danantara as a strategic investor is strengthening the outlook for Indonesia's petrochemical sector. Analysts view this as a positive signal for reducing import dependence and boosting the credibility of projects such as Chandra Asri Pacific's CA-EDC plant. However, challenges remain, including volatile raw material prices and the threat of dumping from China.

7 Horrifying Facts About the Flash Flood That Devastated Nepal and Killed Hundreds

A catastrophic flash flood struck Nepal's Rasuwa district near the Tibetan border on Wednesday, killing at least 165 people and leaving hundreds more missing. The disaster, which destroyed roads, bridges and a hydropower project, is believed to have been triggered by a massive glacier collapse rather than an earthquake. Indonesian authorities are monitoring the situation, with around 45 Indonesian nationals recorded in Nepal and no reports of casualties among them.