Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 29 August 2026

Showing 651-700 of 833 articles

Differing Views on PBNU Chairman Election Emerge at NU Congress Session

A debate has emerged at the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Congress in Jombang over the mechanism for electing the chairman of the organisation's executive board. KH Ulil Abshar Abdalla argues that the chairman should continue to be elected directly by congress participants, while KH Fahrur Rozi proposes that the position be appointed by the AHWA council. The discussion is considered one of the most important agenda items in the congress's organisational commission.

These Are the 20 Largest Holders of US Government Debt, Controlling IDR 165,000 Trillion

Foreign investors held US$9.29 trillion of US government debt as of June, with Japan remaining the largest holder despite reducing its position. China's holdings fell to their lowest level since 2008, while Indonesia's recorded holdings declined 14% month-on-month to US$32.01 billion.

PALAWA Unpad distributes aid to earthquake victims in NTT

The PALAWA Unpad student nature lovers' association, together with its alumni corps and the Palawa Indonesia Foundation, has delivered aid to earthquake victims in Sikka, East Nusa Tenggara. The assistance, prioritising basic necessities such as food staples, ready-to-eat meals, tarpaulins, tents, blankets and mats, was purchased locally in Flores. The earthquake of magnitude 7.7 on 15 August 2026 has claimed 111 lives, with BNPB reporting 8,794 aftershocks recorded so far.

Revealed: Klitih Perpetrators Armed with Airsoft Guns Terrorising Yogyakarta Residents

Police in Yogyakarta have arrested one of four suspects involved in a series of random airsoft gun shootings targeting motorcyclists in Sleman and Bantul. The attacks, which occurred in early August, left victims with minor injuries and heightened public anxiety about night-time street crime. Authorities are still pursuing the remaining three suspects and investigating whether the incidents were deliberately filmed to create content for social media.

Chile, Argentina, Bolivia, Peru agree strategic minerals cooperation

Four South American nations have signed a joint declaration to strengthen regional cooperation on strategic minerals, particularly copper and lithium. The agreement aims to attract responsible investment, reinforce regional supply chains, and deepen collaboration on geological data, regulation, and technology development. The move comes amid surging global demand for critical minerals driven by the energy transition and artificial intelligence.

"What Is the Point of Living Anymore?" Grief of a Mother in Nepal Who Survived on a Tree Branch but Lost Her Only Son

Flash floods in Nepal's Himalayan region have killed at least 579 people and left more than 1,900 missing, devastating communities and separating families. Survivors in military evacuation shelters recount harrowing escapes, including a 60-year-old widow who lost her only son after clinging to a tree branch. Nepali authorities have deployed 15,000 search and rescue personnel and are prioritising air evacuations and logistics for isolated districts.

Acute Respiratory Infection Cases in West Kalimantan Reach 165,000 Due to Forest and Land Fires

West Kalimantan's Health Office has recorded 165,727 cases of acute respiratory infection (ISPA) between 1 January and 22 August 2026, with a marked increase coinciding with rising forest and land fire hotspots. The trend has been climbing since late May, reaching approximately 29 cases per 1,000 residents. Health authorities are monitoring the situation through an early warning and response system as visits to health facilities continue to rise.

Forest Burning in the Perspective of Corporate Criminal Liability

The article examines the legal challenges of holding corporations criminally responsible for forest and land fires in Indonesia, particularly in Riau and Kalimantan. It argues that liability should extend beyond individual perpetrators to include corporate policies, negligence, and risk management failures. Recent enforcement efforts by the police and the Ministry of Forestry have begun targeting corporations as well as individuals.

Andre Rosiade Receives detikSumatera Award, Highlights President's Strong Commitment to West Sumatra

Andre Rosiade, Deputy Chairman of Commission VI of the Indonesian House of Representatives, received the detikSumatera Award and dedicated it to the people of West Sumatra. He highlighted the central government's substantial financial commitment to the province under President Prabowo Subianto, including nearly Rp19 trillion for rehabilitation and reconstruction. Rosiade expressed hope that these funds would accelerate development and directly benefit local communities.

Purbaya Prepares Fake Excise Stamp Detection Tool to Curb Illegal Cigarette Circulation

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has announced a new track-and-trace system developed with state printer PERURI and a foreign private firm to detect counterfeit excise stamps on cigarettes. The system will be installed in major cigarette factories and linked directly to the Directorate General of Customs and Excise for real-time monitoring. The government will pay the system provider based on a percentage of additional revenue generated, with a five-year evaluation period.

Nepal Flash Flood Update: Death Toll Rises, New Danger Emerges

Rescue operations have resumed in Nepal and China following a catastrophic glacial collapse in the Himalayas that has killed at least 586 people. The number of missing has nearly doubled to 1,924 in Nepal alone, with over 540 of those missing being foreign nationals, mostly Indian Hindu pilgrims. Authorities are now monitoring newly formed glacial lakes that pose an ongoing flood risk, while China has elevated the disaster to a national priority.

Pertamina Patra Niaga wins CSR Awards 2026 for disaster response

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has received the Impact Commitment Award at the Investortrust CSR Awards 2026 for its disaster relief efforts across Indonesia. The company highlighted its support ranging from basic needs and medical aid to psychological first aid in disaster-hit areas such as North Sumatra and East Nusa Tenggara. The award organiser emphasised proof of impact over programme scale or spending.

How the State Views the Platform Economy

The article examines the regulatory challenge posed by Indonesia's platform economy, arguing that existing legal categories such as 'worker' or 'entrepreneur' fail to capture the complex reality of app-based drivers. It contends that policymakers should first understand the actual economic relationships before deciding on legal status, drawing on contrasting approaches from California and the European Union.

Japan's Defence Ministry Sends Three Chinook Helicopters to Help Tackle Forest Fires in Kalimantan

Japan's Ministry of Defence has agreed to support firefighting operations in Kalimantan following a request from the Indonesian government. The Japan Self-Defence Forces will deploy the tank landing ship JS Kunisaki carrying three CH-47 Chinook helicopters. The helicopters will be used to transport water from lakes to extinguish fires in affected areas.

Russia Claims Successful Launch of Nuclear-Capable Intercontinental Ballistic Missile

Russia has announced the successful test launch of a nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missile from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome. The mobile, solid-fuel missile struck a designated target at the Kura test range in the Kamchatka region. The exercise was intended to confirm the tactical, technical and flight characteristics of the missile system.

PELNI Partners with KPK to Oversee Fuel Bunkering for Pioneer Ships

State-owned shipping company PT PELNI has joined forces with the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) to monitor the bunkering process of KM Sabuk Nusantara 92 at Tanjung Perak Port in Surabaya. The inspection is part of a broader effort to ensure transparency and accountability in fuel management across PELNI's operations. The company says the collaboration aims to strengthen compliance with good corporate governance principles.

Tragedy of Primary School Girl in Lombok: Invited to Hang Out, Then Gang-Raped by 3 Men

A 10-year-old primary school girl in North Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, was gang-raped by three adult men after being lured with an invitation to hang out at a convenience store. The suspects have been arrested and charged under Article 473 of the Criminal Code, facing up to 12 years in prison. The case has drawn attention to child protection failures in the region.

Data Centres, AI & Renewable Energy: 2026 Investment Themes - Maybank Trade ID

Maybank Trade ID highlights data centres, artificial intelligence, and renewable energy as key investment themes for 2026, noting that while many related issuers have been listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange since 2021–2023, the recent surge in investor interest and valuations is new. The report explains that the IDX has no official classification for data centre or AI sectors, with such companies falling under the Technology sector, and cautions investors to conduct fundamental analysis rather than chase thematic euphoria.

Antam Gold Price Falls on Saturday 29 August, Time to Buy?

The price of gold produced by PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) fell on Saturday, 29 August 2026, with the 1 gram bar priced at Rp2,670,000, down Rp48,000 from the previous trading day. The buyback price also declined by Rp55,000 to Rp2,523,000 per gram. The movement reflects ongoing fluctuations in the domestic precious metals market.

Pola Raya ready to take national architects into the global market

Indonesian architecture firm PT Pola Raya Studio is opening a New York office and exploring local acquisitions to help Indonesian architects, developers and companies enter the global market. The firm has signed a Letter of Intent with the Indonesian Consulate General in New York to promote Indonesian architecture, craft, design and creative economy in the United States. The collaboration will include exhibitions, business matching and knowledge exchange programmes.

Facts about the Nepal-Tibet Flash Floods and Landslides

The death toll from flash floods and landslides in Nepal has risen to 547, with hundreds more missing, including many foreign nationals. A glacial collapse triggered the disaster, which destroyed homes, roads, and a key border crossing. Authorities in China have warned of a high risk that a newly formed landslide-dammed lake could burst, causing further flooding downstream.

Economy: Purbaya pursues steel company taxes to Magelang coffee

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa is pursuing potential tax revenue of around Rp5 trillion from 40 steel companies that have not fulfilled their tax obligations. The government is also evaluating the Free Nutritious Meals programme and preparing incentives for small businesses. Meanwhile, coffee has been identified as a leading product of Magelang Regency due to its diverse geography.

Minister Fadli Zon: Former Jiwasraya building has potential as museum

Culture Minister Fadli Zon has suggested that the former Jiwasraya building in Semarang's Old Town could be repurposed as a museum, possibly for photography. The heritage-listed building retains original architectural elements, including an old Otis lift, and the minister emphasised that adaptive reuse would help preserve its historical value while benefiting the public.

Home Affairs Ministry Awards High-Performing Regional Governments in Java-Bali Batch II 2026

The Ministry of Home Affairs has recognised regional governments in Java and Bali for achievements in housing, health, education, and environmental management. The awards aim to encourage innovation and improved public services, with Minister Tito Karnavian highlighting the strategic role of local governments in addressing the housing backlog. Further categories will be assessed in a third batch later in the year.

Antam gold price plunges Rp48,000 to Rp2.670 million per gram on Saturday

The price of gold bullion produced by state-owned miner PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) fell sharply by Rp48,000 to Rp2.670 million per gram on Saturday. The buyback price also declined to Rp2.523 million per gram. Transactions above Rp10 million are subject to a 1.5 percent income tax, while purchases incur a 0.25 percent tax.

Former President Found Guilty in Hydropower Project Bribery Case, China Implicated

Ecuador's former president Lenin Moreno has been found guilty of bribery linked to the construction of the country's largest hydroelectric plant, the Coca Codo Sinclair project. The court also convicted his wife and daughter, with prosecutors alleging that Chinese firm Sinohydro paid around US$76.1 million in bribes disguised through fake consultancy contracts. The case has drawn in a former Chinese ambassador to Ecuador and highlights corruption concerns surrounding major Chinese-funded infrastructure projects.

Minister Yandri Encourages Cikolelet Village Potential to Reach Export Markets

Villages Minister Yandri Susanto has urged Cikolelet Village in Serang Regency to capitalise on export opportunities, highlighting government programmes designed to boost rural economies. Speaking at the Cikolelet Festival, he outlined initiatives including village export schemes, youth training in Japan, and green economy funding of up to Rp2.5 billion per village.

PNM Promotes Women's Empowerment to Strengthen Family Economy and Children's Education

PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) is supporting women micro-entrepreneurs in Yogyakarta, highlighting how economic empowerment can improve family welfare and children's education. The state-owned enterprise provided assistance to repair school facilities attended by the child of one of its Mekaar programme clients. PNM emphasises that supporting clients extends beyond business financing to nurturing the social environment where their families live and children learn.

Whoosh Debt Management to Transfer to Finance Ministry from 15 September 2026

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that management of the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Rail (Whoosh) project debt will be transferred from PT KAI to the Ministry of Finance starting 15 September 2026. The repayment scheme to the Chinese government is still under discussion. The government is considering involving at least two Special Mission Vehicles under the Finance Ministry to manage the debt.

Polda Metro Jaya deploys 784 personnel to secure Merdeka Run in Jakarta

Polda Metro Jaya has deployed 784 personnel to secure the Merdeka Run 8.1K event around the State Palace in Central Jakarta. Police will implement situational traffic management along the route, which includes Jalan Medan Merdeka Barat, Jalan MH Thamrin, and Jalan Jenderal Sudirman. The public is advised to anticipate travel times and follow officers' directions.

China pushes for APEC free trade area agreement

China is urging APEC members to advance early deliverables toward a Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific, with business representatives calling for reduced trade barriers and stronger regional connectivity. The APEC Business Advisory Council has recommended accelerating digital trade, supply chain cooperation, and AI development to help SMEs and developing economies participate in the digital economy. Delegates also began the first five-year review of the Aotearoa Plan of Action to address AI, energy transitions, and supply chain resilience.

Golkar Prepares Internal Sanctions After TTU DPRD Member Named Suspect in Dr Icha Case

The Golkar Party is preparing internal sanctions against Therensius Lazakar, a member of the Timor Tengah Utara Regional House of Representatives, after police named him a suspect in the alleged intimidation of the late doctor Eliza Princila Ututi Pakaenoni. Golkar has suspended Lazakar from his legislative duties and says it will await the final legal ruling before imposing further disciplinary measures. Police have named three TTU DPRD members as suspects in the case.

Gold Fails to Shine, Plunges 3% After Fed Blow

Gold prices fell sharply on Friday, reversing weekly gains after Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh signalled that further interest rate hikes may be needed to curb inflation. The spot price dropped 3.22% to US$4,452.67 per troy ounce, with markets now pricing a 58% chance of a September rate increase. A stronger US dollar added further pressure on the precious metal.

Book on Three Great Kiai Behind Cak Imin's Leadership Thoroughly Dissected

A discussion in Jombang examined a new book exploring the leadership of PKB chairman Muhaimin Iskandar through the lens of three founding figures of Nahdlatul Ulama. Speakers highlighted his genealogical ties to major pesantren networks and the book's distinctive political perspective on the NU founders.

Indonesian Ambassador commends election of Kazakhstan's first parliamentary speaker

Indonesia's Ambassador to Kazakhstan, Fadjroel Rachman, has congratulated Kazakhstan on the successful election of its first unicameral parliament, the Kurultai, and the selection of Aibek Dadebay as its inaugural speaker. The election, held on 23 August 2026, saw voter turnout of 74.08 percent and a decisive victory for the Adilet party. The ambassador described the development as a new chapter for Kazakhstan's constitutional democracy.

One Million Graduates in Indonesia Still Seeking Work: What Are the Causes?

Around one million university graduates in Indonesia remain unemployed, according to the Central Statistics Agency (BPS). Education sociologist Professor Bagong Suyanto attributes this to a mismatch between graduate competencies and industry needs, as well as an economic development model that does not generate enough labour-intensive jobs. He argues that a degree is no longer a guarantee of employment and calls for higher education reform alongside a shift towards labour-intensive industrial development.

Hotspots Still Detected in 6 Provinces, BMKG Conducts Weather Modification

Indonesia's disaster agency reports forest and land fire hotspots remain across six priority provinces, with Central Kalimantan recording the highest number. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) is carrying out weather modification operations to assist firefighting efforts, though effectiveness depends on atmospheric conditions and cloud availability.

Nepal Flash Flood Update: More Than 570 Dead and Nearly 2,000 Missing

Flash floods along the Nepal–Tibet border have killed more than 570 people in Nepal and left nearly 2,000 missing, including over 500 foreign nationals. Rescue operations involving 15,000 security personnel are being hampered by destroyed roads, collapsed bridges and continuing heavy rain. Chinese President Xi Jinping has offered condolences to Nepal's President and pledged support for recovery efforts.

As a Show of Tolerance, GKJW Jombang Provides Lodging for NU Congress Participants

The Jawi Wetan Christian Church (GKJW) in Jombang has opened its guest house to participants of the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress, continuing a tradition of interfaith cooperation in the region. The initiative, coordinated by Jaringan NU Kultural (JANUR) together with local churches and a temple, has so far accommodated 47 congress attendees from across Indonesia. Organisers say the effort reflects Jombang's standing as a city of tolerance and aims to strengthen inter-religious harmony.

Parliamentary Speakers Conference calls for peaceful settlement of disputes

Parliamentary leaders from 26 countries and five international organisations adopted the Phnom Penh Declaration, urging peaceful resolution of international disputes and stronger parliamentary diplomacy. The declaration reaffirmed commitment to international law, sovereignty, and non-intervention while calling for greater use of preventive diplomacy. Indonesia is scheduled to host the third conference in 2027.

Leaders of Russia, China, Iran to attend summit in Kyrgyzstan

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Bishkek brings together leaders from Russia, China, Iran, India and Pakistan, highlighting the bloc's ambition to present a counterweight to Western influence. The gathering occurs amid heightened geopolitical tensions, including the Ukraine war, US-Iran conflict and trade disputes, with Iran seeking to use the alliance to circumvent sanctions. While the SCO claims to represent 40 per cent of the world's population, internal rivalries and uncertain concrete benefits for members like Iran temper its effectiveness.

Two Pre-trial Motions by Febrie Adriansyah Rejected by Court

The South Jakarta District Court has rejected two pre-trial motions filed by former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah. The judge ruled that his designation as a suspect by the Attorney General's Office was lawful and that the police investigation procedures were valid. Febrie is facing corruption charges linked to the handling of the PT ASABRI and PT Jiwasraya cases, as well as alleged money laundering.

Getting to Know Haakon VIII, Norway's New King

Norway has a new monarch following the death of King Harald V at the age of 89. His son, Haakon VIII, ascends the throne amid high public affection for his father and recent scandals involving the royal family. The new king faces the challenge of maintaining the monarchy's popularity while navigating personal and institutional controversies.

Bamsoet Welcomes UNPERBA Partnership with South Korean Manufacturing Company

Bambang Soesatyo has expressed strong support for a new partnership between Universitas Perwira Purbalingga and PT John Toys Indonesia, a South Korean-linked export manufacturer. The collaboration aims to strengthen ties between higher education and industry by enhancing student competencies, work readiness, and global outlook. The agreement is seen as a step towards developing Purbalingga as a source of skilled talent for national and international markets.

Constitutional Court Affirms Freedom of Expression as a Constitutional Right That Must Be Protected

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has struck down Articles 240 and 241 of the 2023 Criminal Code, ruling that they contravene the 1945 Constitution. The court found the provisions could criminalise legitimate criticism and evaluation of state institutions, creating a chilling effect on public expression. The ruling emphasises that state institutions, as legal subjects, do not possess feelings that can be insulted, and that protecting institutional dignity rests with the individuals serving within them.

Nepal and China Authorities Warn of Risk of Further Catastrophic Flooding in the Himalayas

Authorities in Nepal and China have issued warnings about the risk of further catastrophic flooding in the Himalayan region. A lake formed by landslide debris on both sides of the Nepal-Tibet border is at risk of bursting, potentially sending floodwaters into areas already devastated by flash floods earlier this week. The death toll from the initial disaster has risen to at least 584, with more than 2,400 people still missing.

784 Polda Metro Jaya Personnel Deployed to Secure Merdeka Run 2026

Polda Metro Jaya has deployed 784 personnel to secure the Merdeka Run 2026 event around the Merdeka Palace in Central Jakarta. The police are managing traffic and providing services to ensure the event runs smoothly while minimising disruption to residents. The run is part of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations and was attended by several ministers and 12,000 participants.

Gumelem Batik Association values DCF for expanding market beyond Java

The Gumelem Batik Association in Banjarnegara, Central Java, reports that participation in the Dieng Culture Festival 2026 has helped expand its market to regions outside Java, including South Kalimantan, Makassar, Bali, Medan, Jambi and Bandung. The association, which involves around 100 batik makers across 12 artisan groups, hopes this year's sales will match or exceed last year's turnover of approximately Rp17 million. Bank Indonesia's Purwokerto representative office noted that the festival generated around Rp50 billion in economic turnover last year and is expected to grow further.

IM3 Strengthens Creative Ecosystem, Targets 15,000 Creators and Creative Economy Players

Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison's IM3 brand has launched Airena Kreatif, a platform aimed at supporting Indonesia's creative economy by bringing together young people, content creators, and MSMEs. The initiative, developed in collaboration with Adobe and the Ministry of Creative Economy, targets 15,000 participants and has already reached thousands through campus events. The programme seeks to leverage AI-powered tools like Adobe Express to help creators and small businesses generate income.

Could New US Sanctions Drive a Wedge Between China and Iran?

China has condemned Washington's latest sanctions on Iran as illegal and unilateral, while US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned that no one is immune from American sanctions. Beijing remains Iran's largest trading partner and a key buyer of its oil, but analysts suggest China is unlikely to take drastic action that could jeopardise the upcoming Trump-Xi summit. The situation is expected to feature in discussions at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Kyrgyzstan.