Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 28 August 2026

Showing 151-200 of 1,420 articles

House Commission VII proposes Nuanu provide dedicated space for Tabanan Dekranasda

House of Representatives Commission VII has proposed that Nuanu Creative City in Bali allocate a dedicated boutique space for Tabanan's regional craft council (Dekranasda) to boost local MSMEs. The initiative aims to integrate creative hubs with one-stop business services, including licensing and product certification. Nuanu's CEO welcomed the collaboration, noting that 668 Bali-based MSMEs are already active in its procurement system, with contract values reaching Rp27 billion in 2025.

Salary of Rp 2.8 Million and Work Tools Destroyed, Joyo Now Left with Nothing

A 70-year-old construction worker lost his newly received salary and all his work tools in a fire that destroyed a boarding house and welding workshop in South Denpasar. Joyo Sugiman, originally from Blitar, now plans to stay temporarily at his project site while awaiting further assistance. The fire, suspected to have been caused by an electrical short circuit, also claimed the life of an elderly woman.

Fatal Altercation Between Parking Attendant and Police Officer in Palu, Aipda AA Fires 7 Shots

A parking attendant in Palu, Central Sulawesi, died after being shot by a police officer from the Central Sulawesi Regional Police's Internal Affairs Division following a dispute over parking. The officer, Aipda AA, reportedly fired seven to eight shots after being attacked with a machete. A bystander was also injured by a stray bullet, and the officer is now under investigation by the police internal affairs unit.

Academic: Political parties play key role in determining quality of simultaneous regional elections

A Palu-based academic has emphasised that strengthening political party institutions is crucial to improving the quality of Indonesia's simultaneous regional elections. Sahran Raden of UIN Datokarama Palu highlighted gaps between legal ideals and electoral practice, pointing to issues such as money politics, party oligarchy, and dynastic politics. He argued that democratic political configurations tend to produce responsive laws, while authoritarian ones generate repressive legislation.

STIQ Ar-Rahman Graduates Urged by KH Bachtiar Nasir to Make the Quran a Life Guide

KH Bachtiar Nasir has called for a deeper methodological approach to ensure engagement with the Quran translates into character transformation and social change. Speaking at a graduation ceremony in Bogor, he proposed the concept of the Quran as an 'Operating System for Life' and introduced 'Predictive Tadabbur' as a framework for decision-making. A professor from Gontor Islamic University encouraged developing the idea into a formal academic discipline.

Meta prevents its smart glasses from being used for covert recording

Meta has rolled out a software update to close a loophole that allowed users to record video covertly by covering the LED indicator on its smart glasses. The update automatically stops recording if the indicator light is obstructed during capture. The company says it is continuing to develop additional safety features to alert bystanders when photos or videos are being taken.

Central Java ESDM Agency Denies Residents' Findings on Sand and Stone Mining Impact in Progo River, Magelang

The Central Java Energy and Mineral Resources Agency has rejected complaints from Sambeng villagers about PT Anaba Putra Nusantara's mining activities in the Progo River, claiming joint inspections found no violations. The agency stated that concerns over landslides, distance from river structures, and damage to springs were unsubstantiated. It also clarified that the provincial investment board issues the permit, with approval required from the river basin authority.

Dukcapil Brings Mobile Services to Serve Earthquake Victims' Documents in Nagekeo

Indonesia's Directorate General of Population and Civil Registration (Dukcapil) has deployed mobile services to evacuation posts in Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, following a devastating earthquake. The initiative enables displaced residents to obtain replacement identity documents without visiting government offices, ensuring continued access to social assistance and public services. Officials issued 300 documents on the first day of service.

MPR Speaker: Government Serious in Handling Forest and Land Fires Despite Difficult Terrain

MPR Speaker Ahmad Muzani has expressed concern over the spread of forest and land fires across Indonesia, including in conservation areas. He acknowledged the government's serious efforts to tackle the problem despite challenging terrain, drought, and water shortages. Muzani also thanked security forces and called for continued public support.

Police: Pickup Driver Who Rammed DPR Gate from Jember Was Under the Influence of Alcohol

Jakarta police have detained a pickup truck driver from Jember, East Java, who allegedly rammed the Pancasila Gate of the DPR/MPR complex while under the influence of alcohol. A sharp weapon was found in his possession. Separately, police have named 48 suspects in connection with the broader unrest around the parliament building, including 45 for vandalism and assault and three for carrying sharp weapons.

Public Transport Changes How People Choose Where to Live

Access to public transport is increasingly shaping where urban residents choose to live in Jakarta's satellite areas, as commuting time becomes a key factor alongside price. Developers are responding by building housing near MRT stations, such as Arsa Homes in Cireundeu, Ciputat, which is five minutes from Lebak Bulus MRT Station. The project targets young families and professionals seeking proximity to Jakarta without long daily commutes.

Attitudes That Can Nullify Prayers According to Hadith

Islamic teachings highlight that impatience in awaiting the fulfilment of one's prayers can invalidate them. Ibn Qayyim al-Jauziyyah, citing the Prophet Muhammad, explains that feeling one's prayers are taking too long and subsequently abandoning them is a form of haste that blocks divine response. The article uses the analogy of a farmer who neglects his crops due to slow growth, leading to failure.

Parents Flock to Property Expo as Gen Y-Z Prove Reluctant to Buy Homes

A property marketing executive has observed a growing trend of parents attending housing expos to find homes for their children, who are often aged between 25 and 30. The children are not necessarily unable to afford a home, but are reportedly too lazy or busy to search for one themselves. Parents are stepping in to ensure their children's income is invested in property rather than spent on consumptive items.

Pramono Pays Condolence Visit to Home of Victim Who Died in Pejompongan Unrest

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung visited the family of a resident who died during unrest in Pejompongan, offering condolences and support. Police confirmed the victim was evacuated after the area was secured but was pronounced dead at Mintohardjo Naval Hospital. The family has declined an autopsy, and authorities have urged all parties to ensure safe spaces during demonstrations.

Meta Removes Iranian Account Network Using AI to Intervene in US Politics

Meta has dismantled a network of Facebook and Instagram accounts linked to Iran that used artificial intelligence to target American audiences with political content. The operation involved accounts posing as US-based activists, students, and graphic designers to spread anti-Republican messaging and narratives on Israel-Palestine and immigration. Meta has shared information about the operation with US law enforcement and continues to invest in AI detection tools.

Central Jakarta City Government strengthens ASN and PJLP solidarity through Independence Day competitions

The Central Jakarta City Administration is using traditional competitions to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, aiming to build collaboration and solidarity among civil servants and individual service providers. Mayor Arifin said the informal festivities are intended to foster togetherness that supports the performance of official duties. He also thanked the sub-department offices and all parties involved in organising the event.

Demo dan Kepercayaan Investor Asing di Indonesia

ASPEBINDO menilai demonstrasi tidak serta merta membuat investor asing membatalkan investasi di Indonesia, karena investor juga mencermati pengelolaan keamanan, kepastian hukum, dan kelangsungan ekonomi. Risiko investasi meningkat bila aksi berubah menjadi ketidakstabilan berkepanjangan atau diiringi kebijakan yang tidak konsisten. Meredanya demonstrasi dinilai mengurangi kekhawatiran risiko domestik dan berpotensi mendorong rupiah menguat terhadap dolar AS, meski penguatannya diperkirakan terbatas.

WHO: Thousands of Gaza patients still awaiting medical evacuation

The World Health Organization reports that thousands of patients in the Gaza Strip remain in urgent need of medical evacuation. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus highlighted that 106 patients were evacuated last week through the Rafah and Kerem Shalom crossings. He stressed the need for sustained access through multiple crossing points to ensure timely medical care.

TBS Energi records US$173 million revenue in first half of 2026

PT TBS Energi Utama Tbk reported consolidated revenue of US$173 million for the first half of 2026, with non-coal segments now contributing 66.5 per cent of revenue. The company has fully exited coal-fired power generation and cut coal trading by around two-thirds, marking a structural shift towards sustainable infrastructure. Waste management accounted for 92 per cent of consolidated EBITDA, while net loss narrowed by 83 per cent year on year.

Village Head in Serang Claims He Used Drugs to Boost Work Enthusiasm

A village head in Serang Regency, Banten, has been arrested by regional police for methamphetamine use, claiming he took the drug to stay energised at work. Khusni, head of Undar Andir village, tested positive for amphetamine and has been sent to a rehabilitation centre in Bogor. Police also arrested two other suspects involved in distributing the drugs, which were sourced from Tanah Abang in Central Jakarta.

Former Watersport Facility in Nusa Penida Destroyed by Fire, Losses Estimated at Rp 100 Million

A disused watersport building known as The Angkal in Nusa Penida, Bali, was completely destroyed by fire on Friday afternoon, with material losses estimated at around Rp 100 million. No casualties were reported, and firefighters managed to extinguish the blaze by 4 p.m. local time. Police are still investigating the cause of the fire.

Police Investigate Alleged Involvement of Mass Organisations in Jakarta Riots on 27 August

Jakarta Metropolitan Police are investigating claims that mass organisations were involved in riots that broke out across the capital following a demonstration on 27 August. Police have asked for time to verify the allegations, warning that many social media posts contain disinformation and provocation. The alleged presence of GRIB Jaya chairman Hercules at the scene is also being examined.

Minister Agus Celebrates Independence Day and Prophet's Birthday with Juvenile Detainees in Tangerang

Immigration and Corrections Minister Agus Andrianto marked Indonesia's 81st Independence Day and the Prophet Muhammad's birthday with juvenile detainees at the Tangerang Special Child Development Institution. The event combined traditional games, religious observance, and charitable donations as part of a broader rehabilitation approach. Minister Agus emphasised that corrections should focus on restoration, character building, and social reintegration rather than security alone.

Minister Imipas: Prison rehabilitation builds character and recovery

Minister of Immigration and Corrections Agus Andrianto has emphasised that rehabilitation in correctional facilities should focus on character building, recovery, and social reintegration, not just security. He highlighted the involvement of juvenile detainees in Independence Day activities as part of a humane and inclusive approach to corrections. The initiative aligns with the ministry's 15 Action Programmes aimed at strengthening rehabilitation quality.

Merdeka Run: These Roads Will Be Closed from 4 AM Tomorrow

Several major roads in central Jakarta will be closed from 4 AM to 8 AM tomorrow for the Merdeka Run, part of the 81st Indonesian Independence Day celebrations. Police have advised motorists to use alternative routes and follow directions from officers on the ground.

Prabowo Receives Panglima Jilah, Discusses Forest Fire Handling in West Kalimantan

President Prabowo Subianto met with Tariu Borneo Bangkule Rajakng leader Panglima Jilah to discuss accelerating forest and land fire mitigation in West Kalimantan. The government has deployed personnel and provided support for customary houses, schools, scholarships, roads, hospitals, and security forces. Panglima Jilah emphasised that Dayak shifting cultivators are often wrongly blamed for fires, as their farming occurs on mineral soil rather than peatland, and highlighted the role of indigenous communities in monitoring and preventing uncontrolled burning.

Rieke pushes for One Data Indonesia Bill to support asset forfeiture

House of Representatives member Rieke Diah Pitaloka is urging the immediate passage of the One Data Indonesia Bill, arguing that accurate data governance is essential for effective asset forfeiture and corruption eradication. She contends that flawed data systems create opportunities for corruption and that legislative reform must accompany enforcement efforts. The bill aims to establish integrated, accurate, and valid data management as the foundation for development planning.

World Prepares for Major Catastrophe, Global Elite Urge Full Alert

Leading technology companies including OpenAI, Anthropic, Microsoft, Alphabet and Amazon have issued a joint open letter warning that AI-powered cyberattacks will escalate dramatically in the coming months. The coalition, backed by over 100 global firms, is urging governments and business leaders to mobilise large-scale defence measures. The warning comes as the Five Eyes intelligence alliance has also cautioned that the AI revolution is fundamentally reshaping global cybersecurity vulnerabilities.

Police Performance Praised for Securing 27 August 2026 Demonstration

Political analyst Boni Hargens has praised the Indonesian National Police under Chief Listyo Sigit Prabowo for successfully securing the 27 August 2026 mass demonstration. He highlighted the prevention of a 'black swan' event as a result of solid inter-agency coordination between the police, military, and state intelligence agency. Hargens suggested this collaborative model should serve as a precedent for future security operations.

Former Gus Dur Spokesman: NU Must Strengthen Global Role Amid World Conflicts

Sastro Al Ngatawi, former spokesman for President Abdurrahman Wahid, has called on Nahdlatul Ulama to intensify its international engagement, arguing that the global dissemination of Nusantara Islamic thought is part of the organisation's founding mission. He highlighted the historic Komite Hijaz and Gus Dur's strategy of internationalisation as key precedents. Sastro believes the current geopolitical realignment presents a timely opportunity for NU to expand its global influence and offer an alternative face of Islam.

35th NU Congress Expected to Provide Solutions to National Problems, Focusing on 5 Strategic Agendas

The 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress is seen as a crucial moment to formulate Muslim responses to national challenges and developments in the Islamic world. The Indonesian Islamic Da'wah Institute has highlighted five strategic issues requiring attention, including social polarisation and the rapid flow of digital information. The congress is expected to produce outcomes that strengthen both religious and national life.

Polda Metro Jaya prioritises recovery following Jakarta riots

Polda Metro Jaya and Kodam Jaya are prioritising the restoration of order in Jakarta following riots, while assessing material and immaterial losses. Police noted that the psychological impact on the public has been relatively greater than physical damage, with some schools shifting to online learning. A total of 322 people have been detained for questioning over their alleged involvement in the unrest.

Constitutional Court Declares Articles on Insulting the Government Contrary to the Constitution, Here Are Its Considerations

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has struck down Articles 240 and 241 of the new Criminal Code, ruling that provisions criminalising insults against the government and state institutions are unconstitutional. The Court found the term 'insult' was too elastic and could be used to criminalise legitimate criticism. The ruling follows a petition filed by nine university students.

Polda Metro Suspects There Are Actors Behind and Funders of the DPR Demo Riots

Polda Metro Jaya has named 48 people as suspects following riots near the DPR/MPR building on 27 August 2026. Police are also investigating the possibility that certain parties mobilised and financed the masses involved in the unrest. The suspects face charges related to damaging public facilities, assault, and carrying sharp weapons.

Ministry of Youth and Sports and BKPM Accelerate Sports Investment

Indonesia's Ministry of Youth and Sports (Kemenpora) and the Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming/BKPM have signed a memorandum of understanding to streamline risk-based business licensing and boost investment in the sports sector. The collaboration aims to transform sports from a cost centre into a revenue-generating industry, supporting the government's 8 percent economic growth target. The agreement includes digital licensing systems and a sports event calendar platform to attract investors.

Catherine Hindra Sutjahyo resigns as GOTO Deputy CEO

PT GoTo Gojek Tokopedia Tbk (GOTO) has announced the resignation of Catherine Hindra Sutjahyo from her position as Deputy Chief Executive Officer, citing personal and family reasons. The company will seek shareholder approval for the resignation at a General Meeting of Shareholders scheduled for 14 October 2026. GOTO has assured that the departure will not adversely affect its operations, legal standing, financial condition, or business continuity.

Lawyer highlights absence of 'Miranda Rules' in Febrie's pretrial ruling

Febrie Adriansyah's lawyer has criticised the South Jakarta District Court's rejection of his client's pretrial motion, arguing that the failure to apply Miranda Rules principles undermines the protection of suspects' rights. The legal team contends that procedural errors should not be dismissed as mere administrative issues, as they can affect the pursuit of substantive justice. The court's decision confirms the legality of Febrie's detention and his status as a suspect in an alleged money laundering case.

South Sumatra Governor assures rice stocks secure until July 2027

South Sumatra Governor Herman Deru has confirmed that rice supplies in the province are sufficient until July 2027, despite shortages of 5kg packaged rice at some retail outlets. He urged the public not to engage in panic buying and called for continued market operations throughout August to stabilise prices. The governor also asked residents to report any medium-grade rice sold above Rp12,500 per kilogram.

Police Arrest Suspect in Machete Attack over Parking Lot Dispute in Tanjung Priok

Police in Tanjung Priok, North Jakarta, have arrested a man suspected of attacking a 49-year-old victim with a machete in the early hours of Thursday. The assault was reportedly triggered by a dispute over the management of a parking area near a coffee shop. The victim is receiving hospital treatment while the suspect and evidence have been taken to the police station for further investigation.

Forestry Minister Raja Juli: Forest and Land Fires in Riau Continue to Shrink

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has reported that forest and land fires in Riau Province are continuing to diminish, following an inspection of the Kerumutan area in Pelalawan Regency. He noted that Riau now ranks second from the bottom nationally for fire hotspots, above only Jambi, with remaining concentrations in Pelalawan, Bengkalis, Siak and Indragiri. The minister also stated that coordination with President Prabowo Subianto's directives has been effectively implemented by the governor, regional police chief and military commander.

Slipi Area Conducive, Residents Urged Not to Be Provoked by Anarchist Calls

The Slipi traffic light area in Palmerah, West Jakarta, has returned to normal following unrest after a demonstration in front of the DPR/MPR building. Police and local officials have confirmed that public activities and traffic flow have resumed as usual. Residents are urged to remain calm and not be provoked by information or calls that could lead to anarchic actions or damage to public facilities.

Law Minister pushes for geographical indication protection of regional products

Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas has called for stronger protection of geographical indications to preserve product identity and boost economic value for local communities. He highlighted the recent registration of Mamasa Arabica and Robusta coffees, bringing the total number of protected coffee products in Indonesia to 71. The minister also urged regional governments to identify more unique local products for protection.

The aroma of coffee enlivens the 2026 Dieng Culture Festival

The 2026 Dieng Culture Festival in Banjarnegara, Central Java, featured a dedicated coffee festival showcasing the region's Arabica, Robusta, and Liberica beans. Organised in collaboration with the local geographical indication protection society and creative economy actors, the event aimed to promote Banjarnegara coffee and connect industry players from across Indonesia. The festival highlighted the entire coffee journey, from green beans to brewing, alongside local spices and culinary products.

Three Men in Lombok Arrested for Raping 10-Year-Old Girl After Luring Her with Outing and Hangout

Police in North Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, have arrested three men for the gang rape of a 10-year-old primary school girl. The suspects allegedly lured the victim by inviting her to go for a ride and hang out at a modern retail outlet, but instead took her to an empty house where the assault occurred. The three men, who were strangers to the victim, have been named suspects under Article 473 of the Criminal Code and face up to 12 years in prison.

Sesmenpora Inaugurates Six Kemenpora Officials

The Secretary of the Ministry of Youth and Sports (Sesmenpora) inaugurated six officials through a transfer mechanism from functional positions within the ministry. The move is part of efforts to strengthen human resources and improve governance. The officials were urged to uphold professionalism, integrity, and collaboration in their new roles.

Two Christian Residents of Papua Pegunungan Join in the Warmth of the NU Congress

Two Christian residents from Papua Pegunungan accompanied the regional NU delegation to the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Congress in Jombang, East Java. Their presence was highlighted by PWNU Papua Pegunungan chairman Abdul Qahar Yelifele as evidence of cross-religious appreciation for NU's role in Papua. Although they did not enter the main congress arena, the delegation prepared a special place for them.

Electric Motorcycle Incentive Cut to Rp3 Million, Here's Purbaya's Reason

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has explained the government's decision to reduce the electric motorcycle purchase incentive from Rp5 million to Rp3 million per unit. While the per-unit subsidy is lower, the programme's coverage has been expanded from 500,000 to one million units, keeping the total budget at Rp3 trillion. Purbaya acknowledged that domestic production capacity remains a major constraint, with year-end uptake likely to reach only around 100,000 units.

Judge Reveals Alleged Money Laundering by Febrie Adriansyah Lasted Eight Years

A South Jakarta District Court judge has disclosed that the alleged money laundering case involving former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah is believed to have spanned eight years, from 2018 to 2026. The judge noted that the alleged offences cross the period before and after the new National Criminal Code came into force on 2 January 2026. The court ultimately rejected Adriansyah's pre-trial motion challenging his suspect designation.

Polda Metro Jaya reveals chronology of death of riot victim in Pejompongan

Jakarta Metropolitan Police have detailed the sequence of events leading to the death of a resident during unrest in Pejompongan, Central Jakarta. Police said evacuation could not be carried out hastily due to security concerns, and the victim was taken to hospital once the area was secured. The family has declined an autopsy, and investigators have not yet sought further statements out of respect for their grief.

Observer Says Security Forces Able to Prevent 'Black Swan' During 27 August Protest

Political and intelligence observer Boni Hargens has praised the Indonesian National Police, the military and the State Intelligence Agency for preventing a 'black swan' event during the 27 August 2026 mass demonstration. He argued that inter-agency coordination created layered security that mitigated potential disruptions before they could escalate. Hargens said the successful operation could serve as a precedent for future security management.