Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 28 August 2026

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Prabowo Meets Panglima Jilah to Discuss Forest and Land Fires in West Kalimantan

President Prabowo Subianto met with Dayak Kanayatn leader Panglima Jilah to discuss the handling of forest and land fires in West Kalimantan. The President pledged support including additional personnel, helicopters, and weather modification efforts. Panglima Jilah also defended indigenous shifting cultivators, arguing they should not be automatically blamed for the fires.

KPK Seizes Rp 6 Billion After Questioning Denpasar Immigration Office Head

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized more than Rp 6 billion in cash after questioning three immigration officials from Denpasar and Singaraja in connection with a residence permit extortion case. The case, which allegedly involves Deputy Minister of Immigration and Corrections Silmy Karim, has seen total asset seizures reach Rp 150 billion. Investigators are also probing possible money laundering, as some assets were registered under other people's names.

Thanks to BRI Peduli Export Training, Setia Pearl Expands Global Market

Setia Pearl, a Lombok-based pearl jewellery business founded by Setiawati, has successfully entered international markets including Turkey, Malaysia, Singapore and Nigeria after participating in an export training programme run by BRI Peduli. The training helped shift her perspective on exporting, which she previously considered complicated. BRI says the programme is part of its corporate social responsibility efforts to help Indonesian MSMEs upgrade their capabilities and compete globally.

Pearls from Lombok for the World: Setia Pearl Expands Global Market Thanks to BRI Peduli Export Training

Setia Pearl, a Lombok-based pearl jewellery business founded by Setiawati, is expanding its international reach after participating in an export training programme run by BRI Peduli. The company now serves customers in Turkey, Malaysia, Singapore, and Nigeria, and aims to make Lombok pearls more widely recognised abroad. BRI says the initiative is part of its corporate social responsibility efforts to help Indonesian MSMEs compete in global markets.

Ibas Urges BKMT to Strengthen Synergy with Parliament in Channelling Aspirations

Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono has called on the Badan Kontak Majelis Taklim (BKMT) to deepen its collaboration with parliament. He emphasised that the organisation's extensive grassroots network could serve as a powerful channel for public aspirations. The meeting also produced several cross-commission proposals, including halal certification assistance and health programme partnerships.

Viral Video Shows Unknown Group Carrying Sharp Weapons Roaming Homes in Sukaraja Bogor, Police Investigate

Police in Sukaraja, Bogor Regency, are investigating a viral video showing four unidentified individuals carrying sharp weapons while roaming residential areas in Desa Cijujung. The group was seen peering through gates and entering yards, apparently scouting homes in the early hours of Tuesday, 25 August. No thefts have been reported, but police have increased patrols and urged residents to remain vigilant.

On Constitutional Court ruling, Purbaya prepares to reallocate MBG budget in 2028

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has indicated the government may reallocate the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme budget in 2028 to comply with a Constitutional Court ruling. The court ordered the programme's funding to be separated from the education budget, as it does not constitute a core component of education. The 2027 draft state budget will still draw MBG funds from education spending, with reallocation to be considered for the following year.

Digital Business Amid Campus and Industry: Who Approaches Whom?

Cyber University's Career Center head argues that higher education must align more closely with industry needs, particularly in digital business. He contends that universities and industry should not wait for each other but must build closer ties to produce graduates who can bridge business understanding and technological mastery.

Apartment Stock in Jakarta Piles Up to Tens of Thousands of Units, What Does It Signify?

The Indonesian government is pushing to optimise existing housing stock in Jakarta as land becomes scarce and property prices remain high. New financing relaxations, including longer tenors and subsidised schemes, aim to bridge the gap between available apartments and public purchasing power. Around 29,000 apartment units in Jakarta remain unsold, according to Colliers Indonesia data cited by REI DKI Jakarta.

Dayak Leader Panglima Jilah Insists Traditional Farming Is Not the Cause of Forest Fires

Dayak leader Panglima Jilah has rejected claims that traditional shifting cultivation by indigenous communities is responsible for forest and land fires in Kalimantan. He argued that Dayak farming practices have existed for thousands of years without causing such disasters, as they avoid peatlands and maintain local monitoring mechanisms. The remarks followed a meeting with President Prabowo Subianto, during which forest fire handling in West Kalimantan was discussed.

Thousands of tourists visit Thousand Islands during Prophet Muhammad's birthday holiday

A total of 1,729 domestic and international tourists visited the Thousand Islands regency during the Prophet Muhammad's birthday holiday in 2026. The majority were domestic visitors, with only 21 foreign tourists recorded. Local officials expressed hope that the influx would boost the local economy and encouraged visitors to help maintain environmental cleanliness.

One Resident Dies in Pejompongan Overnight, Police Assist Evacuation

A resident died during unrest in Pejompongan, Jakarta, with police assisting in the evacuation after receiving a public report. The victim was taken to Mintohardjo Naval Hospital but was pronounced dead during treatment. The family has declined an autopsy, and police have urged all parties to create safe spaces during demonstrations.

Forestry Minister calls for optimised weather modification as rain clouds expected over Riau

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has urged authorities to maximise weather modification operations in Riau, citing forecast rain cloud potential from 30 August to 1 September. He stressed that rain remains the most effective method for tackling forest and land fires, while also calling for thorough cooling of peatland fire sites in Pelalawan to prevent reignition.

Prabowo Partners with Nobel Laureates to Strengthen Indonesia's Research Ecosystem

President Prabowo Subianto has met with Nobel laureates and world-renowned scientists to foster collaboration with Indonesian researchers and academics. The initiative aims to strengthen the national research ecosystem and talent development. BRIN Head Arif Satria highlighted existing cooperation, such as a sister lab with Nobel laureate Susumu Kitagawa, focusing on natural gas technology.

Barantin and Chile strengthen SPS cooperation, expand commodity trade

Indonesia's quarantine agency Barantin and Chile's Ministry of Agriculture have agreed to deepen sanitary and phytosanitary cooperation to expand agricultural and fisheries trade while maintaining health standards. The two sides signed a phytosanitary protocol for Chilean fresh fruit exports and discussed electronic certification and capacity building. Indonesia recorded a trade surplus with Chile of US$162.2 million in the first half of 2026.

OJK Chief Gives Saving Tips to Sekolah Rakyat Students in Bekasi

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has urged Indonesian students to cultivate saving habits from an early age, emphasising that even small amounts can build future financial security. Speaking at the peak ceremony of Indonesia Savings Day in Bekasi, OJK Chair Friderica Widyasari Dewi highlighted that financial literacy among students remains below the national average. She called on central and regional governments to work together to improve financial education and access for young people.

Megawati Highlights Disappearing Eternal Snow on Mount Grasberg, Says It Could Vanish Within Three Years

Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri has warned that the eternal snow on Mount Grasberg in Papua is melting at an accelerating rate and could disappear within three years, citing research by the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN). She described the situation as ironic given the presence of PT Freeport's copper mining operations beneath the mountain. The remarks were made during a meeting with Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta in Jakarta.

Pickup Driver Who Rammed DPR Gate Arrested, Suspected of Acting While Drunk

Police have arrested the driver of a pickup truck that rammed the Pancasila Gate at the Indonesian House of Representatives complex in Senayan, Jakarta, during a protest. A sharp weapon was found in the vehicle, which originated from Jember, East Java. The driver is believed to have been under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident.

Fugitive in Timor deer poaching case in Komodo National Park arrested

Forestry Ministry investigators have arrested a man who had been on the wanted list for nearly nine months over the alleged poaching of Timor deer in Komodo National Park. The suspect was detained in Bima, West Nusa Tenggara, with support from local police. Authorities say the case is part of broader efforts to protect the park's biodiversity and the komodo dragon's food chain.

This Is the Reason GoTo Vice President Director Catherine Hindra Resigned

Catherine Hindra Sutjahyo has stepped down as Vice President Director of PT GoTo Gojek Tokopedia Tbk, citing personal and family reasons. The company announced the resignation through an information disclosure document on Friday, 28 August 2026, and will seek shareholder approval at an extraordinary general meeting on 14 October 2026. GoTo stated that the departure will not adversely affect its operations, legal standing, or financial condition.

Polda Metro Jaya detains 322 people after unrest near DPR/MPR complex

Jakarta police have detained 322 individuals suspected of involvement in rioting and vandalism following a public demonstration outside the DPR/MPR complex. Of those detained, 162 are adults aged 18 to 40, while 160 are minors aged 12 to 19. Police also seized weapons and a pickup truck allegedly used to ram officers during the unrest.

Purbaya Ready to Sack Subordinates Colluding with Tax Evaders

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has vowed to dismiss any of his staff found to be involved in tax evasion, stating that such collusion hampers state revenue collection. He specifically referenced a case involving Chinese steel companies that evaded taxes for decades, indicating insider involvement. The Directorate General of Taxes has identified potential state losses of approximately Rp 583.36 billion from the alleged criminal tax offences.

Cirebon Police Seize 647 Bottles of Alcohol from 11 Traders in Three-Day Raid

Cirebon Police conducted a three-day operation targeting illegal alcohol sales, arresting 11 traders and confiscating 647 bottles of factory-made and traditional liquor. The operation covered six districts and was described as a preventive measure to curb street crime and public disorder. Police said they would continue such raids to maintain security across Cirebon Regency.

Sudaryono Explains Why SPPG Heads Must Be Present in MBG Kitchens from 2 AM

The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sudaryono, has explained that heads of Nutrition Service Fulfilment Units (SPPG) must be on duty from 2 AM to ensure compliance with standard operating procedures and prevent food poisoning incidents. The BGN has issued a circular setting kitchen operational hours and has dismissed 66 kitchen heads for failing to attend for 10 consecutive days. A layered monitoring system, including virtual meetings during critical hours, has also been introduced.

UI teaches handwashing to 200 Myanmar migrant children in Thailand

Ten nursing students and a lecturer from the University of Indonesia (UI) taught handwashing to around 200 Myanmar migrant children aged 6-12 in Samut Sakhon, Thailand. The initiative was part of a summer course on cultural diversity in healthcare, run in collaboration with Mahidol University and other international partners. The programme aimed to strengthen basic health literacy and cross-cultural communication skills among nursing students.

Hanura unfazed by parliamentary threshold, focuses on building political machinery

The Hanura Party is prioritising organisational strengthening and cadre consolidation across regions ahead of upcoming elections, rather than concerning itself with the parliamentary threshold. Task Force Chairman Patrice Rio Capella said the party aims to complete its leadership structure in all provinces by the end of September. Hanura is targeting at least one House of Representatives seat from the Bengkulu electoral district and increased representation in regional legislatures.

Bali Police Urge Parents to Strengthen Supervision of Children's Social Media Use

Bali Regional Police have called on parents to tighten oversight of their children's social media activity, warning that lax supervision exposes minors to cyberbullying, immoral content, online fraud, and exploitation. The police outlined preventive measures including open communication, screen time limits, and data privacy education. They stressed that family involvement remains the primary safeguard against cyber threats.

BNPB: Aid deliveries for NTT earthquake victims continue on day 14

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has confirmed that logistics deliveries for earthquake survivors in East Nusa Tenggara remain intensive on the fourteenth day after the disaster. A total of 1,911 tonnes of aid has been dispatched from Jakarta between 15 and 28 August 2026, distributed through hubs in Labuan Bajo and Maumere. The agency has also launched a combined land and sea shipment of 126 tonnes to accelerate large-scale distribution while maintaining daily air deliveries.

Fuel Subsidy Reform Planned? Economist: The Key Lies in Data!

The Indonesian government is planning to tighten eligibility criteria for subsidised fuel and LPG as energy subsidy spending continues to rise. INDEF economist Imaduddin Abdullah argues that integrated data is the key to successful subsidy reform, recommending electricity subsidies as the first to transition due to better data quality. A new cooperation agreement between Pertamina Patra Niaga and the civil registry aims to strengthen verification for more targeted distribution.

Titiek Soeharto Encourages TWNC to Become a World Conservation Living Laboratory

Siti Hediati Soeharto, Chair of Commission IV of the Indonesian House of Representatives, hosted 21 Nobel laureates and global figures at Tambling Wildlife Nature Conservation in Lampung. She expressed hope that TWNC could become a living laboratory where nature meets science, technology, education and international relations. The visit highlighted three decades of conservation experience at the site, including efforts to protect the critically endangered Sumatran tiger.

Barelang Transmigration Area Begins to Attract Global Investors

The Barelang transmigration area in Batam, Riau Islands, is drawing interest from global investors, including NVIDIA, due to its strategic location and reliable electricity supply. The Ministry of Transmigration projects the area could attract up to Rp200 trillion in investment, including a glass factory development leveraging Rempang's silica sand resources. The government is collaborating with BP Batam and the Batam city administration to foster a conducive investment climate and sustainable regional development.

BNPB: NTT earthquake death toll stands at 111, aftershocks reach 8,794

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has confirmed the death toll from the 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara, remains at 111, with thousands of aftershocks continuing to rattle the region. The agency reported that 8,794 aftershocks have been recorded since the main quake on 15 August 2026, with seismic activity expected to persist for up to a month. The number of displaced residents has begun to decline, with the current total standing at 175,909 people.

Kapuas Investment Encouraged to Benefit MSMEs, Six Products Pass Modern Retail Selection

The Kapuas Regency Government is promoting inclusive investment to ensure tangible benefits for the local economy, particularly for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Six out of 30 local MSMEs have passed selection to enter a modern retail network, facilitated by the local investment office. The initiative aligns with new national regulations on partnerships between large businesses and MSMEs.

DKI Jakarta sanctions six waste transport service providers

The DKI Jakarta Environmental Agency has imposed administrative sanctions on six waste transport companies for operating outside their permits. This brings the total number of sanctioned firms to 11 as part of a broader effort to improve waste management governance in the capital. The agency warned that repeat violations could lead to licence revocation.

Pre-trial Reveals Febrie's Alleged Money Laundering Spanned Eight Years

A South Jakarta District Court judge has rejected a pre-trial motion filed by former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah, ruling that his detention and suspect status in a money laundering case are lawful. The ruling revealed that the alleged offences took place between 2018 and 2026, spanning both the old and new Criminal Code regimes. The judge held that determining which legal provisions apply is a matter for the main trial, not the pre-trial stage.

BNPB: Forest and Land Fire Hotspots in Central Kalimantan Rise to 4,359 Points

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has reported a significant increase in forest and land fire hotspots in Central Kalimantan, reaching 4,359 points. The burned area has now exceeded 7,634 hectares, though visibility remains normal at nine kilometres. Ground operations are focused on extinguishing fires, containing their spread, and cooling affected areas in Pulang Pisau and Seruyan.

Sri Sultan reminds officials to maintain integrity in their duties

Governor of the Special Region of Yogyakarta Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X has urged newly appointed officials to uphold integrity and clarity of conscience in exercising their authority. Speaking at the inauguration of 125 regional government officials, he stressed that positions must be proven through work that benefits the public. He also called for the 'Satriya' work culture and objective talent management based on performance, integrity and track record.

Manpower Ministry strengthens apprentice competence amid Japan's ESDP policy shift

Indonesia's Manpower Ministry is enhancing the quality of Indonesian apprentices in Japan as the country transitions from the Technical Intern Training Program to the new Employment for Skill Development Program. The ministry views the change as an opportunity to improve participants' technical skills, discipline, safety awareness, and understanding of Japanese work culture. It also encourages receiving companies to provide feedback on industry skill needs to better align future apprenticeship preparation.

Gerindra's Muzani on 'Ministers Who Can't Cope Should Step Aside'

Gerindra Party's Ahmad Muzani has backed President Prabowo Subianto's warning that ministers who cannot work on public holidays should leave the cabinet. Muzani said all presidential aides must give maximum support so the president does not work alone. He added that ministers in the Red and White Cabinet have so far been supportive and cooperative.

Warning: Crossing the Road While Using a Mobile Phone Could Result in a Fine of Rp1.5 Million

Italy is preparing new traffic code regulations that will fine pedestrians caught using electronic devices while crossing the road. The rules, expected to be approved in mid-October, aim to reduce accidents caused by distracted walking. Italy follows other jurisdictions such as Lithuania, Honolulu, and Yamato City in Japan in addressing the phenomenon.

National Police Chief says Indonesian workers must strengthen global competitiveness

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has urged Indonesian workers to improve their skills to compete in the global economy amid rapid technological change. Speaking at the KSBSI national working meeting, he highlighted both the risks and opportunities presented by AI, robotics and IoT. He also pointed to government downstreaming programmes and major projects such as a 100 GW solar power plan that could create up to 5.5 million jobs.

BPOM and partners donate cash and logistics to assist NTT earthquake victims

Indonesia's Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) and its partners, including Sido Muncul, have raised over Rp610 million in cash and Rp1.27 billion worth of products for earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara. The aid is being distributed through BPOM technical units in West Manggarai and Ende. The initiative marks the first time BPOM has directly involved businesses in disaster fundraising.

Old Number Used by New Owner: What About Your Kredivo Account?

Kredivo has reminded users that inactive mobile numbers can be reassigned by operators, potentially exposing old digital accounts linked to them. The fintech lender advises customers to either update their access details or formally close their accounts if they no longer wish to use the service. Account closure requires all bills to be settled and takes approximately three working days.

Jakarta Demo Turns Violent: 322 Arrested, One Dead

Police in Jakarta have arrested at least 322 people following violent clashes that erupted after a demonstration near the DPR/MPR building. The arrests include 160 minors aged 12 to 19, and authorities confirmed one fatality. Police also seized weapons and other items used during the unrest.

Buleleng Regency Government Pursues Local Revenue from Galian C to Cover Budget Deficit

The Buleleng Regency Government is projecting a budget deficit of Rp 85 billion for the 2027 fiscal year and is targeting several local revenue sources to close the gap. Key areas include Galian C mining retributions, specific goods and services tax (PBJT), advertising, parking, and hotel and restaurant taxes. The regent noted that PBJT realisation has already exceeded 50 per cent of its target in the first semester.

Bareksa Analyst Team's Stock Recommendations Today: SSIA, ADRO & WIFI, IHSG Direction Forecast

Bareksa's analyst team has issued stock recommendations for SSIA, ADRO, and WIFI following a 1.81% surge in the Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) to 6,522 on 27 August 2026. The index is projected to trade between 6,377 and 6,635 in the next session, supported by broad sectoral gains and positive global cues from Wall Street. Technical analysis suggests the IHSG has broken through key resistance at 6,454, with further upside potential towards 6,917.

The Shrimp Behind Trump's Tactic: Apparently Squeezing Companies Over This

The Trump administration is reportedly preparing to impose import tariffs on semiconductors, with the scope expanding beyond chips to include products that use them such as laptops, consoles, and data centre servers. The move is aimed at bringing manufacturing back to the United States, though officials have declined to confirm the reports and describe tariff details as speculation. A transition period for the phased introduction of new tariffs is also being considered.

Unable to Resolve Wars, Megawati Proposes Restructuring the UN Security Council

Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri has criticised the United Nations for its failure to resolve ongoing wars, calling it a 'big question' for her. Speaking during a meeting with Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta, she urged reform of the UN Security Council, arguing its current structure does not represent developing nations. Megawati also recalled that her father, founding President Sukarno, had long called for the UN to reform itself.

Pertamina Relaunches UMK Academy to Help Local Enterprises Level Up

State-owned energy company PT Pertamina has reopened registration for its UMK Academy 2026, a structured mentoring programme for micro and small enterprises. The initiative aims to improve business governance, product quality, digital adoption, and market access, with specialised tracks including Go Green and Go Aggregator. Pertamina reports that over 2,000 businesses registered in 2025, with 581 participants graduating and advancing to higher business classes.

Whoosh serves 9,000 priority passengers in January-August 2026

PT Kereta Api Indonesia China (KCIC) reported that its Whoosh high-speed rail service carried 9,000 priority passengers between January and August 2026, bringing the cumulative total since 2025 to 24,000. The service provides end-to-end assistance and accessible facilities for elderly, disabled, pregnant, and other passengers requiring special attention. Padalarang and Halim stations recorded the highest numbers of priority passengers.