Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 29 August 2026

Showing 451-500 of 833 articles

PP Properti ready to hand over 1,300 low-income housing units, supports 3 million homes programme

PT PP Properti Tbk is preparing to hand over approximately 1,300 housing units for low-income communities across three projects in Bekasi, Bogor and Semarang. The move supports the government's 3 Million Homes programme. The company is also promoting its Tower Isabella project at the Danantara Housing Expo 2026, offering special financing schemes facilitated by Danantara and Himbara banks.

South Jakarta District Court to Hold Pretrial Hearing for Deputy Head of BGN on 4 September

The South Jakarta District Court has scheduled the first hearing for a pretrial motion filed by Lodewyk Pusung, a suspect in the alleged corruption case involving the Free Nutritious Meals programme, for 4 September 2026. Pusung is challenging the seizure conducted by investigators from the Attorney General's Office. This follows previous unsuccessful attempts to contest his suspect status and seizures in other courts.

Rupiah Stagnant, Korean Won Strongest Against Dollar This Week

The rupiah remained flat at Rp17,685 per US dollar this week, while the South Korean won led gains among Asian currencies with a 0.67% appreciation. The US dollar strengthened 0.91% as higher-than-expected PCE inflation data and hawkish remarks from Fed Chair Kevin Warsh at Jackson Hole lifted expectations of further rate hikes.

After 27 August Demonstration, National Police Confirm Jakarta Situation Conducive and Under Control

The Indonesian National Police have confirmed that conditions in Jakarta remain conducive and under control following the demonstration at the DPR/MPR building on 27 August 2026. Brigadier General Trunoyudo Wisnu Andiko stated that the situation nationwide is stable after earlier incidents of rioting, arson, and toll road closures. The police have pledged to maintain public order and ensure that all public services continue to operate normally.

13 Criminal Offences Included in Asset Forfeiture Bill, Here is the List

House of Representatives Commission III has identified 13 categories of criminal offences that could be subject to asset forfeiture under the proposed Asset Forfeiture Bill. The list ranges from corruption and narcotics to human trafficking, and was compiled following expert input and comparative studies with other countries. The commission aims to ensure the bill is effective, proportionate, and fair.

Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming/BKPM Welcomes Walovi Investment in Indonesia

Indonesia's Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming/BKPM has welcomed investment from Chinese pharmaceutical giant Guangzhou Pharmaceutical Holdings Limited, marked by the soft launch of its herbal drink Walovi in Jakarta. The event included the signing of distribution agreements with four Indonesian companies, signalling the start of Walovi's market entry. Officials expressed optimism that the product will be well received and will strengthen economic cooperation between Indonesia and China.

NTT quake death toll at 111 as aftershocks reach 8,794: BNPB

The death toll from the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck East Nusa Tenggara on 15 August 2026 has risen to 111, with Manggarai District recording the highest number of fatalities. The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency has logged 8,794 aftershocks, and experts expect seismic activity to continue for up to four more weeks. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency reports that evacuee numbers are beginning to decline as some residents return home, while others are encouraged to use centralised shelters offering logistics, clean water, sanitation, and health services.

Waringinkurung Landfill in Serang Catches Fire, Flames Difficult to Extinguish

A fire broke out at the Waringinkurung landfill in Serang Regency, Banten, on Friday evening, with the cause still unknown. The blaze has proven difficult to control due to dry season conditions and high piles of waste covered by tall grass. Police are working to extinguish the fire and prevent it from reigniting.

Content Creator Vilmei's Rp 1.2 Billion Stolen, Three Named as Suspects

Bekasi Kota Metropolitan Police have named three people as suspects in the alleged embezzlement of Rp 1.28 billion belonging to content creator Vilmei. The suspects, including one of Vilmei's employees, have been detained while investigators continue to examine the case. The alleged theft was first reported by Vilmei on social media after discovering her TikTok account balance had been drained.

Dry Season: Pejukutan Residents in Nusa Penida Hit by Clean Water Crisis

Residents of Pejukutan in Nusa Penida, Klungkung, Bali, are facing a clean water crisis due to the dry season. The Klungkung Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has deployed water tankers to distribute supplies directly to affected households. Although PDAM pipeline infrastructure has reportedly been installed, the area has yet to receive piped water, forcing residents to purchase water at increasing volumes.

NU Congress discusses AD/ART amendments and PBNU leadership election method

The 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress in Jombang is deliberating strategic organisational matters, including proposed amendments to its constitution and the method for electing the PBNU leadership. Commission sessions are being held behind closed doors to allow delegates to deliberate freely, with results to be announced publicly once decisions are finalised.

NTB, Qatar explores investment and education opportunities

West Nusa Tenggara Governor Lalu Muhammad Iqbal met with Qatar's Ambassador to Indonesia to discuss potential Qatari investment in airport infrastructure, air connectivity, local industries, and a proposed bypass road linking Lembar and Kayangan ports. The talks also covered placing skilled workers from NTB in Qatar and involving institutions such as the Qatar Fund, Qatar Charity, and Qatar Airways. The Ambassador expressed strong interest, particularly in the Mandalika Special Economic Zone, and both sides agreed to prepare technical steps to finalise investment schemes and workforce arrangements.

Bitcoin Breaks Psychological Level, Investors Warned of Volatility

Bitcoin has surged past the US$80,000 psychological threshold, driven by US Treasury buyback policies and strong inflows into spot bitcoin ETFs. Indodax's Chief Marketing Officer cautioned that while institutional demand is robust, the rapid pace of the rally carries significant volatility risk. Investors are advised to maintain risk discipline and avoid chasing prices out of fear of missing out.

Perumnas offers 5,000 homes at Danantara Housing Expo 2026

State-owned housing developer Perum Perumnas is showcasing more than 5,000 residential units across 46 project locations at the Danantara Housing Expo 2026. The offering includes landed houses and vertical housing, with several projects featuring green building certification and transit-oriented development concepts. Visitors can also access financing options from state banks with down payments starting at one per cent and interest rates from 2.75 per cent per annum.

Indonesia seeks $282 million in tax revenue from steel companies

Indonesia's Finance Ministry is auditing 40 steel companies over an estimated Rp4-5 trillion in potential tax leakage, with only one firm audited so far. The review covers income tax, VAT, and import-related obligations, and officials suspect internal ministry involvement in allowing non-compliance to persist for decades. Sanctions, including dismissal, are being prepared for employees found to have facilitated the practices.

Dreadlock-cutting ritual becomes highlight of Dieng Culture Festival 2026

The traditional dreadlock-cutting ceremony for 13 'anak bajang' children was held at the Arjuna Temple complex in Banjarnegara, Central Java, as part of the Dieng Culture Festival 2026. The ritual, performed after the children's wishes were granted, aims to preserve local culture while attracting tourists to the Dieng highlands. The festival, themed 'Spirit of Harmony', drew approximately 30,000 visitors.

Strengthening the Housing Ecosystem, Danantara Housing Expo 2026 Presents Integrated Protection Solutions

Indonesia Financial Group (IFG), the state-owned insurance, underwriting, and investment holding company, is participating in Danantara Housing Expo 2026 to offer integrated protection solutions for homeowners. The group is showcasing life, property, accident, travel, and vehicle insurance products from its subsidiaries, including IFG Life and Jasa Raharja Putera. IFG is also promoting its ONE by IFG digital platform to improve access to financial and protection services.

Dismissing Trump, Iran Asserts Full Control over Strait of Hormuz

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy has rejected President Donald Trump's claim that Washington controls the Strait of Hormuz, insisting Tehran holds 'full and absolute' command over the strategic waterway. The IRGC described US assertions that the strait is open as a 'sheer lie' intended to manage oil prices and mask American defeats. The standoff follows renewed hostilities between the two countries and the collapse of a 60-day reopening agreement signed in June.

GRC Not Just Compliance, TGI Proves Its Impact on Business Performance

PT Transportasi Gas Indonesia (TGI) has demonstrated that Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC) has evolved from a defensive compliance function into a strategic driver of organisational resilience and competitive advantage. The company reported strong 2025 results, including revenue of USD143.86 million and net profit of USD71.62 million, both exceeding targets. TGI also maintained a 'Very Good' GCG assessment rating and multiple ISO certifications while advancing ESG initiatives such as a biomethane agreement and low-emission operations.

Youth, Investment ministries join forces to spur sports investment

Indonesia's Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Ministry of Investment and Downstream Development have signed an agreement to promote investment in the sports industry and sports tourism. Minister Erick Thohir emphasised shifting the perception of sports from a cost centre to a revenue opportunity, with expedited licensing for sporting events and a planned annual sports calendar in 2027. The initiative aims to support the government's eight percent economic growth target and create job opportunities for young people.

Minister: No transport facility damage during 27 August demonstration

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has confirmed that no public transport facilities were damaged during the demonstration outside the DPR/MPR building on 27 August. He noted that the only disruption was temporary obstruction at Palmerah Station, with no reports of damage to public transport assets. The minister expressed hope that the situation has now been resolved following the DPR leadership's acceptance of the protesters' demands.

El Nino fluctuations recorded larger than in the past thousand years

A new study published in the journal Science finds that El Nino-related temperature fluctuations in the Pacific have become stronger than at any point in the pre-industrial portion of a roughly 1,000-year record. The research shows ENSO variability in recent decades is 36 per cent higher than in the pre-industrial period, with the sharpest increase occurring over the last 40 years. The findings add to evidence that global warming may be altering the natural climate cycle that influences weather worldwide.

East Kalimantan Police hand over two corruption suspects in Balikpapan BLKI case to High Prosecutor's Office

East Kalimantan Police have transferred two suspects to the High Prosecutor's Office in connection with alleged corruption at the Balikpapan Job Training Centre (BLKI) involving state losses of Rp8.92 billion. The suspects, identified as S and YL, held key roles as Budget User Authority and Technical Activity Executing Officer respectively. The case relates to irregularities in the procurement of training materials for job seeker skills programmes during 2023 and 2024.

Nutmeg social forestry groups in Fakfak strengthen financial literacy and business management

The EcoNusa Foundation and the Fakfak Production Forest Management Unit have trained social forestry business groups in Fakfak, West Papua, in financial literacy and business management. The training aimed to build habits of recording transactions, separating business funds from household needs, and conducting regular evaluations. Participants acknowledged that financial management is essential for business sustainability and professionalism.

Potential Reaching Rp8,000 Trillion, Sports Industry Becomes New Investment Field

Indonesia's Investment Ministry and Youth and Sports Ministry have signed a memorandum of understanding to boost investment in the sports sector. The agreement aims to streamline risk-based business licensing and create a conducive investment climate. Minister Erick Thohir highlighted the global sports industry's value at approximately US$521 billion, with annual growth of 8 per cent.

Japan to Send CH-47 Helicopters to Help Indonesia Fight Wildfires

Japan is deploying three CH-47 transport helicopters and around 600 Self-Defense Force personnel to assist Indonesia in combating severe forest and peatland fires, primarily in Kalimantan. This marks the first overseas firefighting operation by Japan's Self-Defense Forces and follows a formal request from Jakarta under a bilateral defence cooperation agreement. The mission underscores deepening security and humanitarian cooperation between Japan and Indonesia amid escalating wildfire damage.

Tanzania's Vice President Resigns Amid Rift with President

Tanzania's Vice President Emmanuel Nchimbi has resigned, marking the first such resignation in the East African nation's history. The decision follows reported tensions with President Samia Suluhu Hassan over his controversial calls for a new constitution. Nchimbi said he was honouring a promise to step aside if the president wished for a change.

Bareskrim Polri Charges Batam Casino Owner with Money Laundering

The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has charged Suwanda alias Akau, owner of the Nine Stage Lounge and Bar casino in Batam, with money laundering in addition to gambling offences. The charges follow a raid on 15 August 2026 in which 197 people were detained and Rp 7.7 billion in cash was seized. The operation was the result of nearly three months of investigation based on public reports and media information.

Quirky Styles at Merdeka Run 2026, from Traditional Attire to Spider-Man

The Merdeka Run 2026 in Jakarta saw more than 10,000 participants celebrate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day with creative costumes ranging from traditional ulos cloth to Spider-Man suits. The 8-kilometre run, starting from in front of the Merdeka Palace, served as a platform for expressing national pride through sport and cultural identity.

West Sumatra Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Accelerated, Rp17.9 Trillion Prepared to Face Flood Threat

West Sumatra Governor Mahyeldi Ansharullah has called for the acceleration of post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction following floods and landslides, with total losses estimated at Rp33.4 trillion. A budget of Rp17.9 trillion has been approved for infrastructure works over three years from 2026 to 2028. The House of Representatives Commission VIII has urged prioritisation of urgent works, particularly river sedimentation, to mitigate the risk of recurring hydrometeorological disasters.

Blora Police examine 15 witnesses in case of assault on two officers

Blora Police have questioned 15 witnesses in connection with the assault of two Ngawen police officers during a village carnival celebrating Indonesia's 79th Independence Day. Three suspects have been named and detained as investigators work to establish the chronology and individual roles in the incident.

Given a Place to Stay, Man in Bogor Steals Friend's Motorcycle and Mobile Phones

A man in Gunung Putri, Bogor, has been arrested for stealing a motorcycle, mobile phones, a watch, and a power bank from a friend who had allowed him to stay overnight. The suspect sold the motorcycle in Tangerang for around Rp6.55 million and the watch in Bekasi for Rp350,000, using the proceeds for clothing and online gambling. He faces up to five years in prison under Article 476 of the Criminal Code.

Israeli Occupation Causes 89 Percent of Property Fires in the West Bank

A Palestinian commission reports that Israeli occupation forces were responsible for nearly 89 percent of fires targeting Palestinian homes, buildings, and vehicles in the occupied West Bank between January 2023 and July 2026. The commission documented 900 fire incidents, with Nablus and the Ramallah and al-Bireh governorates being the most affected areas. The report also notes that over 6,200 Palestinians, including more than 3,000 children, were forced to flee their homes during this period.

Puan did not sign asset forfeiture bill agreement, Hasto says PDIP's commitment beyond doubt

PDIP Secretary-General Hasto Kristiyanto has defended party chairwoman Puan Maharani after her signature was absent from an agreement between the DPR and the Pati United Community Alliance on the Asset Forfeiture Bill. Hasto said DPR leadership is collective and collegial, and that Puan had participated in discussions on the demonstration. He stressed that PDIP's commitment to fighting corruption and passing the bill should not be questioned.

Pontianak Health Office prepares oxygen rooms as respiratory infection cases rise

The Pontianak Health Office in West Kalimantan has prepared oxygen rooms at all health facilities in response to a surge in acute respiratory infections (ISPA), which have reached 300 cases per day due to haze. The office is also stockpiling logistics to handle ISPA and potential diarrhoea cases as water availability declines. Residents are urged to wear masks and reduce outdoor activities.

KPK Spokesperson: No Fire at Merah Putih Building

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed that no fire occurred at its Merah Putih building in Kuningan, Jakarta. Smoke seen emanating from the building was caused by fogging activities that triggered the automatic fire suppression system. The situation is under control and teams are conducting checks to mitigate any potential risks.

Banten receives 250-unit home renovation assistance from central government

Banten Province has been awarded 250 home renovation units by the central government in recognition of its performance in implementing the 3 Million Houses programme. Deputy Governor Achmad Dimyati Natakusumah said the assistance would be distributed fairly and targeted at areas most in need. The award was announced by Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian as part of four categories recognising local government achievements in basic public services.

Riau Police Tighten Monitoring of Former Burned Land to Prevent Replanting

Riau Regional Police have intensified surveillance of former forest and land fire sites to prevent the areas from being cultivated or exploited after fires are extinguished. Since 2025, police have installed 513 prohibition signs on burned land and continue to patrol these areas. The policy aims to remove any incentive for using fire as a cheap method of land clearing.

Spokesperson Confirms Smoke at KPK's Merah Putih Building Caused by Fogging, Not Fire

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed that smoke detected at its Merah Putih building in South Jakarta was triggered by mosquito fogging, not a fire. The fogging smoke activated the building's automatic fire suppression system, which then released additional smoke. Authorities state the situation is under control and all facilities are returning to normal operation.

Don't Get It Wrong: These 5 Operations Are Not Covered by BPJS Kesehatan

BPJS Kesehatan, Indonesia's national health insurance scheme, covers a wide range of medical procedures but excludes certain operations such as cosmetic surgery and those resulting from self-inflicted injuries. The article outlines the five excluded categories and lists 19 types of operations that are covered under Health Ministry Regulation No. 28 of 2014.

Hundreds of Volkswagen Cars Tour Tabanan, Promoting Tourism and Local MSMEs

Around 150 Volkswagen cars from 20 clubs across Indonesia toured Tabanan, Bali, as part of the Volkswagen Lost in Paradise #6 event. The Tabanan regional government welcomed the activity, saying it would boost the local economy and promote micro, small, and medium enterprises. Participants also donated 100 food packages to porters and veterans in Tabanan.

Spokesperson Confirms No Fire at KPK Building

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed that no fire occurred at its Merah Putih building in Kuningan, Jakarta. Smoke seen emanating from the building was caused by fogging activities that triggered the automatic fire suppression system. The situation is under control and teams are conducting checks to mitigate any potential risks.

NU Congress discusses zakat as tax credit

The 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Congress is deliberating a proposal to integrate zakat and taxation through a tax credit scheme. The discussion forms part of broader efforts to formulate equitable state fiscal governance. Participants also examined optimising the role of state-owned enterprises as a source of state revenue beyond the tax sector.

On SMV low interest rates, OJK: Still follow market mechanism

OJK Chairperson Friderica Widyasari Dewi has stated that bank deposit interest rates will continue to be determined by market mechanisms, despite the government's plan to ask Special Mission Vehicles under the Finance Ministry to apply low deposit rates. She emphasised that coordination on interest rates is conducted within the Financial System Stability Committee framework, prioritising financial system stability. The Finance Minister had previously instructed all SMVs to cap deposit interest at 80 percent of the BI Rate.

Government Pursues Rp 8,000 Trillion Investment Potential in Indonesia's Sports Industry

Indonesia's Investment Ministry and Youth and Sports Ministry have signed a memorandum of understanding to boost investment in the sports sector, which is valued at up to USD 521 billion or Rp 8,000 trillion. The agreement aims to streamline risk-based business licensing and create a conducive investment climate for the national sports industry. Ministers highlighted the sector's 8% annual growth rate and its broader economic benefits, including tourism and other industries.

Pramono: Bus Stops and CCTV Damaged on 27 August Have Been Repaired

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has confirmed that public facilities damaged during the unrest on Thursday night, 27 August, have been repaired. He stated that bus stops and CCTV cameras targeted by vandals are now back to normal and no longer disrupting public activity. The governor also urged demonstrators to exercise their rights peacefully without damaging public infrastructure.

Lebak Regency Government to Repair Damaged Road to Baduy Indigenous Area

The Lebak Regency Government has confirmed it will repair damaged sections of the road leading to the Baduy indigenous area in Banten, with work scheduled to begin in October 2026 under the revised budget. The damage is partly attributed to former sand mining activities, and local indigenous leaders have called for faster improvements to support mobility and tourism.

Badak LNG sweeps five IQSA 2026 awards

Badak LNG has secured five accolades at the Indonesia QHSE & Sustainability Award (IQSA) 2026, marking its third consecutive year of recognition at the event. The awards highlight the company's sustained commitment to safety culture and digital innovation in managing SHEQS and business sustainability. The achievement underscores Badak LNG's operational excellence as it prepares for a planned plant reactivation.

Central Kalimantan Police add 48 personnel to tackle forest and land fire threat

The Central Kalimantan Regional Police have received 48 additional personnel from the National Police Education and Training Institute to strengthen forest and land fire prevention efforts. The officers will be deployed to district police stations across the province to educate communities about the dangers of land burning. The police also received equipment and infrastructure support to improve fire prevention and suppression operations on the ground.

FSP BUMN Bersatu Supports Danantara Streamlining, Appreciates Commitment to Mitigate Layoffs

The Federation of State-Owned Enterprise Workers Unions (FSP BUMN Bersatu) has expressed support for the streamlining programme led by the Danantara Indonesia Investment Management Agency (BPI Danantara). The union welcomed assurances from COO Dony Oskaria that the restructuring will not result in layoffs. The programme aims to reduce the number of SOE entities from around 1,077 to approximately 250, with projected annual state budget savings of up to Rp 50 trillion.