Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 29 August 2026

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Project Barracks in Penjaringan Catch Fire, Losses Estimated at Rp200 Million

A fire broke out at a project logistics barracks in Penjaringan, North Jakarta, on Saturday, 29 August 2026, causing estimated losses of Rp200 million. The blaze, believed to have been triggered by an electrical short circuit, spread to a logistics container storing electrical equipment. Firefighters deployed 42 personnel and seven fire engines, with hospital staff from nearby PIK Hospital also assisting in extinguishing the flames.

Taliban Foreign Minister seeks to normalise relations with US

Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi has said his government is working to normalise relations with the United States, urging Washington to abandon a confrontational approach. He argued that Afghanistan and the US could build ties based on mutual respect and shared interests. The remarks come ahead of the fifth anniversary of the full withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan.

Korem 045 extinguishes forest and land fires in Belilik, Central Bangka

Military personnel from Korem 045/Garuda Jaya successfully extinguished a five-hectare forest and land fire in Belilik Village, Central Bangka Regency. The rapid response prevented the fire from spreading to residential areas and oil palm plantations. The commander urged residents to avoid slash-and-burn land clearing and to report any fire incidents promptly during the extreme dry season.

DPR Member Fully Supports Financing for MSMEs and Creative Economy

Gandung Pardiman, a member of House Commission VII, has expressed full support for the establishment of a working committee on access to financing and capital for MSMEs and the creative economy. He highlighted that MSMEs absorb around 98 percent of the workforce but still face major obstacles in accessing bank credit. The committee is expected to push for easier financing schemes, lighter collateral requirements, and stronger financial literacy programmes.

Exploring the World of Digital Literacy at the Immersive Studio of Jakarta Library

The Immersive Studio at Jakarta Library in Taman Ismail Marzuki offers a free, technology-driven educational experience featuring 360-degree visuals, audio, and AI-based interactive games. Since its inauguration in 2025, the facility has become a popular family edutainment destination, attracting children and parents alike. Visitors must reserve online in advance, with sessions limited to 25 people for 45 minutes to ensure a quality experience.

NTT Records 21,552 Residents Displaced in Mid-August Quake

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has revised the number of displaced residents following the 7.7 magnitude earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara to 21,552, after data validation revealed a significant undercount in Ngada. The death toll stands at 111, with women and the elderly disproportionately affected. The updated figures highlight the scale of the humanitarian impact and the ongoing challenges in disaster response coordination.

Forestry Ministry secures around 40 hectares of TNBBS core zone from encroachment

The Ministry of Forestry has secured approximately 40 hectares of the Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park core zone from illegal encroachment, detaining four suspects and questioning eight witnesses. The operation uncovered evidence of forest conversion into oil palm and coffee plantations, along with firearms and ammunition linked to hunting. The ministry emphasised that protecting the UNESCO World Heritage site is part of the state's responsibility to safeguard Indonesia's natural wealth.

Five Chinese Nationals Deported and Blacklisted After Causing Disturbance in NTT

Immigration authorities in Atambua, East Nusa Tenggara, have deported five Chinese nationals for engaging in activities deemed to threaten public security and order. The individuals were found to have caused a disturbance and violated Indonesian laws, resulting in administrative immigration sanctions including deportation and entry bans. Officials emphasised that the action reflects the commitment of immigration authorities to enforce the law and maintain stability in the region.

Golkar South Jakarta DPD Encourages Spirit of Karya and Gotong Royong

Farah Savira has been elected chairwoman of the Golkar Party's South Jakarta regional board for the 2025–2030 period. She has pledged to strengthen party consolidation, expand its voter base, and increase seat gains in 2029 through community-focused work. Her leadership will emphasise the values of karya (productive work) and gotong royong (mutual cooperation).

Indonesia pushes to improve investment climate, remove bottlenecks

Investment and Downstreaming Minister Rosan has reaffirmed the government's commitment to strengthening legal certainty and removing operational obstacles to attract global investors, with downstreaming set to expand beyond minerals into digital infrastructure and technology. Jakarta led regional investment in the first half of 2026, recording Rp173.6 trillion, or 17.2 percent of the national total, driven by transportation, warehousing, and telecommunications. The minister highlighted continued coordination with the Jakarta provincial government to facilitate strategic projects and maintain the capital's role as a key engine of national economic growth.

Grief in Nepal and Tibet as Flash Flood Death Toll Reaches 633

Flash floods and landslides triggered by a glacier collapse in the Himalayas have killed at least 633 people across Nepal and Tibet, with nearly 3,000 still missing. Rescue operations are being hampered by damaged infrastructure, bad weather, and the risk of further flooding. Authorities have evacuated hundreds of tourists and residents while search teams race against time to find survivors.

Turkey-Israel Tensions Heat Up: Fierce Struggle for Influence in the Middle East

Tensions between Turkey and Israel have escalated sharply following an Israeli airstrike on a disused airbase in northern Syria, which Israel claimed was a pre-emptive move against a suspected Turkish military deployment. The rivalry, rooted in the Gaza war and the fall of the Assad regime, now extends across Syria, the Horn of Africa, and the Eastern Mediterranean. Analysts say direct military conflict remains unlikely due to US interests, but the competition for regional influence is intensifying.

Manten Gethek ritual featured in Bisik Serayu Festival 2026

The Bisik Serayu Festival 2026 in Banyumas, Central Java, showcased the Manten Gethek ritual, a symbolic representation of the community's deep connection with the Serayu River. Led by internationally renowned contemporary dancer Rianto, the ritual celebrates water as a source of life and a unifying force. It also serves as a reflection on the importance of environmental stewardship.

Forest Fires: Transport Minister Dudy Asks Public Transport Operators in Kalimantan to Do This

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has instructed aviation and shipping operators in Kalimantan to adjust their schedules in response to thick haze from forest and land fires. The move aims to prioritise passenger safety as reduced visibility could disrupt services. No airports have been closed so far, with only flight schedules being modified according to weather conditions.

TENANT FESTA 2 Opens More Than 1,000 Job Vacancies at KEK Industropolis Batang

The TENANT FESTA #2 job fair at the Industropolis Batang Special Economic Zone offered over 1,000 positions across more than 50 job types, attracting over 3,500 applicants. Twelve companies from sectors including manufacturing, footwear, food processing, medical devices, and EV battery downstream industries participated. The event reflects collaboration between the zone operator, local government, and industry to boost local employment and skills development.

Indonesia pushes research, investment to expand healthcare services

Indonesia is seeking to scale up healthcare services by integrating academic research, private investment, and public infrastructure, according to Deputy Minister Stella Christie. She stressed that innovation must focus on accessibility, affordability, and diagnostic accuracy, citing the National Brain Center Hospital as a model. The government has launched a national research portal to connect universities with local governments and industry, while the Health Ministry continues to develop the Satu Sehat health data platform.

Nepal Finally Accepts Foreign Aid for Flash Flood Evacuation

Nepal has reversed its earlier decision and will now accept limited international assistance for rescue operations following devastating flash floods. The government faced significant pressure from countries whose citizens are among the missing, and foreign experts will help identify victims so they can be returned to their families.

Emil Dardak Becomes Sole Candidate for East Java Democratic Party Chairman Until 2031

Emil Elestianto Dardak has been unanimously nominated as the sole candidate for chairman of the East Java Democratic Party (Demokrat) for the 2026-2031 period during the party's seventh regional conference. The nomination received support from all 38 district and city branches, the provincial board, and the central board. Dardak has pledged to restore the party's prominence in East Java and aims to secure at least one legislative seat in every electoral district.

Observer urges firm action against rioters after peaceful protest at DPR

A criminal law expert has called on the Indonesian National Police to take firm legal action against those responsible for rioting after a peaceful demonstration at the House of Representatives (DPR) on Thursday. He also highlighted the need to investigate the involvement of 160 minors among those detained and to uncover any parties who may have exploited the situation.

Banyumas Regency temporarily halts Trans Banyumas operations

The Banyumas Regency Government has suspended Trans Banyumas bus services from Sunday, 30 August 2026, as management of the service transitions from the state budget (APBN) to the regional budget (APBD). The regency has allocated operational funding through December 2026 and will conduct a comprehensive evaluation before resuming services. Officials apologised for the disruption and urged residents to use alternative transport during the review period.

Delete Your Digital Footprint Now to Avoid Regret: Here's How

The article outlines practical steps for internet users to manage and delete their digital footprint, highlighting the risks of data misuse and unwanted advertising. It provides guidance on using incognito mode, checking for data breaches, clearing cookies, and removing search histories across major browsers. The piece also notes that Google continues to track users even after location history is disabled, underscoring the importance of proactive data management.

Japan Sends 3 CH-47 Helicopters to Help Extinguish Forest Fires in Kalimantan

Japan's Ministry of Defence and Self-Defence Forces are deploying three CH-47 Chinook helicopters to Indonesia to assist in fighting forest and land fires in Kalimantan. The helicopters, transported aboard the JS Kunisaki, will be used for water bombing operations beginning 10 September 2026. The assistance follows a request from the Indonesian government as part of international disaster relief activities.

House Reveals 13 Crimes That Can Lead to Asset Forfeiture, from Corruption to Human Trafficking

Commission III of the Indonesian House of Representatives has identified 13 criminal offences that would fall under the scope of the Asset Forfeiture Bill, including corruption, narcotics, terrorism and human trafficking. The list was compiled after considering input from legal experts and comparative studies with countries such as New Zealand. The mechanism would allow asset seizure without a criminal conviction, targeting economically motivated crimes that cause serious harm to the state and society.

35th NU Congress: Time for Pesantren to Become a Compass in Facing Changing Times

The 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Congress in Jombang is being framed as a strategic moment to set the organisation's direction amid social, technological and generational change. Observers argue that NU must respond to digital transformation, artificial intelligence and youth needs while remaining rooted in pesantren traditions. The congress is expected to produce not just new leadership but a new direction for Indonesia's largest Islamic organisation.

National Police Traffic Corps Provides Assistance to Widows of Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers Who Died While Earning a Living

The National Police Traffic Corps (Korlantas Polri) has provided financial assistance to the widows of online motorcycle taxi drivers who died in traffic accidents while working. The aid was presented during a road safety event attended by more than 10,000 drivers in the Greater Jakarta area. Officials described the gesture as recognition of the drivers' role as strategic partners in promoting road safety.

Iran Accuses Netanyahu of Fabricating Alleged Plot to Kill Trump's Youngest Son

Iran has dismissed reports that Tehran planned to target Barron Trump, the youngest son of US President Donald Trump, calling them fabricated propaganda. Mohsen Rezaei, Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, blamed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for concocting the claim to deceive and frighten the US President. The denial follows the broadcast of an AI-generated video on Iranian state television that was widely interpreted as a threat against Barron Trump.

KMP Perkasa Prima 5 Loses Power in Bali Strait, Evacuation Marred by Broken Towline

A passenger ferry, KMP Perkasa Prima 5, suffered engine failure in the Bali Strait on Saturday, leaving it adrift with 19 passengers and dozens of logistics vehicles on board. Rescue efforts were complicated when the towline snapped during the initial attempt to pull the vessel to Ketapang Port. All passengers were safely evacuated, and the ferry was eventually brought to port where unloading of vehicles commenced.

GRIB Jaya Speaks Out on Hercules' Presence at 27 August Unrest

GRIB Jaya has issued a clarification regarding the presence of its leader, Hercules, at the scene of unrest near the Indonesian parliament on 27 August 2026. The organisation's legal division argues that his presence should be understood within the security context of that night and was intended to help maintain order, not provoke violence. The statement also cautions against drawing legal conclusions from social media video clips alone.

Peruri distributes aid to 59 veterans in Karawang

State-owned money printing company Peruri has distributed financial assistance and basic food packages to 59 veterans in Karawang, West Java, in collaboration with the local military district command. The initiative, part of the company's social and environmental responsibility programme, marks the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence. Peruri emphasised that honouring veterans reflects the company's broader commitment to social benefit beyond its core business mandate.

Indonesian Conglomerate Takes Over Aviation Fuel Business in Singapore, Targets Changi Airport

Indonesian tycoon Prajogo Pangestu's energy business is expanding into Singapore's aviation fuel sector through the acquisition of Changi Airport Fuel Hydrant Installation. The move, made via his joint venture Aster, marks a significant step into the aviation fuel market and deepens the conglomerate's investment in Singapore. The transaction value remains undisclosed and is subject to regulatory approval.

PDIP Supports Asset Forfeiture Bill, but Fears It Could Be Misused

The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) has expressed support for the Asset Forfeiture Bill, which the House of Representatives has pledged to pass by 15 December 2026. However, Secretary-General Hasto Kristiyanto warned that the law's broad powers could be abused unless oversight of law enforcement is strengthened. He cited the recent case of a former senior prosecutor found with large amounts of gold and wealth as evidence that legislation alone cannot guarantee clean governance.

BNPB deploys water-bombing helicopter to fight West Papua fires

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency has intensified aerial firefighting operations in West Papua, deploying a water-bombing helicopter that has conducted 69 drops across Teluk Bintuni Regency. While active flames have been extinguished at two sites, residual heat and smoke remain, requiring continued monitoring to prevent reignition. Satellite data shows 36 active hotspots across the province, with nearly 2,500 hectares burned as authorities work to protect local communities and contain further spread.

Is Twitter Coming Back? What to Expect from the New 'Bird App'

A group led by former Twitter legal counsel Stephen Coates has launched a new social media platform under the Twitter.now URL, reviving the original blue branding and bird logo. The launch occurs amid an ongoing trademark lawsuit filed by Elon Musk and X, though a preliminary ruling suggests the court may side with the developers. The platform will require a US$20 founder fee and includes an AI fact-checking tool called Vera.

Ancol invites 1,000 orphans and underprivileged children to enjoy free rides

PT Pembangunan Jaya Ancol marked the 41st anniversary of Dunia Fantasi and the Prophet Muhammad's birthday by hosting 1,000 orphans and underprivileged children for free rides at the Jakarta theme park. The company framed the event as an expression of gratitude and a commitment to making Dufan a beneficial recreational space for all. The celebration also featured the Playvor The Fest music festival with performances by Vierratale, Bravy, and Moluccan Soul.

BPK: Corruption can be detected early through layered oversight

Indonesia's Audit Board (BPK) has highlighted the 'Four Lines of Defense' framework as a means of detecting financial irregularities and corruption at an early stage. The concept, applicable to both private and public sectors, involves layered oversight from operational management through to external auditors such as the BPK and BPKP. The remarks were made during a national seminar on transparency and accountability as foundations of public trust.

Developing an Integrated Township Ecosystem, Parkland Podomoro Karawang Affirms It Is Not Only Oriented Towards Building Houses

Parkland Podomoro Karawang is positioning itself as more than a residential development, integrating commercial, lifestyle, and business district components across 130 hectares. The developer, Agung Podomoro Land, says the concept aims to support Karawang's role as an economic pillar of West Java and an industrial centre. The project recently won the 'Best Grand Development and Premium Facilities' award at the Indonesia Property & Bank Award 2026 for the third consecutive year.

Integration of 3 Jasa Marga Services to Improve Public Service Highlighted by Danantara

State-owned toll road operator PT Jasa Marga is strengthening the integration of its three service pillars—preservation, rest areas, and toll road information—as part of a transformation aimed at enhancing customer experience. The initiative was highlighted during a visit by Danantara's Senior Director for Transportation Sector to the Jasamarga Tollroad Command Center. The company says the move aligns with Danantara's push for SOE service transformation and a shift from infrastructure to 'infraculture'.

DHE Rules Relaxed, Mining Exporters Can Park Forex for 3 Months

The Indonesian government has introduced a relaxation for mining sector exporters in placing export proceeds from natural resources (DHE SDA). Through Article 18A of Government Regulation No. 21 of 2026, qualifying exporters may now place at least 30% of their DHE SDA for a minimum of three months, including in non-state-owned foreign exchange banks. The facility is optional and applies to exporters with shareholders from five designated countries.

MCEBI Opens Market Access for Student Products via Pekan Halal Indonesia 2026

Muhammadiyah's entrepreneurship centre is showcasing student-made products at Pekan Halal Indonesia 2026 to strengthen commercialisation of campus-incubated businesses. The initiative aims to validate market demand, open retail distribution partnerships, and reinforce halal certification standards. MCEBI believes these products have potential to expand nationally and globally with proper market access and quality assurance.

Ciputra University arrives in Jakarta, championing entrepreneurship education

Ciputra University has officially established its Jakarta campus in Rawa Buaya, West Jakarta, with operations set to begin in September 2026. The expansion aims to respond to changes in the world of work and the rapid development of artificial intelligence by integrating generative AI into the learning process. The new campus will accommodate up to 10,000 students and has appointed Professor Christina Eviutami Mediastika as its first female Campus Director.

Pokdarkamtibmas Encourages Resident Synergy to Maintain Security in Penjaringan

The Community Security Awareness Group (Pokdarkamtibmas) in Penjaringan is strengthening collaboration with police and various community organisations to maintain local security and order. The initiative, part of the Jaga Jakarta programme, includes dialogue forums and social assistance such as rice distribution and free motorcycle oil changes. Police also urged residents to verify information on social media to avoid provocation.

Minister gives special attention to Penyengat Island development

Indonesia's Public Works Minister has pledged continued support for the development of Penyengat Island, a heritage site in Tanjungpinang, with plans for 2026-2027 including redesigning the Balai Adat area, repainting the Sultan Riau Mosque, and repairing the Pelantar Kuning jetty. The ministry has already carried out slum settlement upgrades, road improvements, drainage works, and public space development on the island. The initiative aims to enhance the island's appeal to domestic and international tourists while preserving its cultural and historical significance.

Kyiv Pounded by Russian Drones for Days, 37 Killed

Kyiv has endured days of relentless Russian drone attacks, culminating in a strike on a facility outside the capital that killed at least 37 people. Ukrainian authorities have launched a criminal investigation into the storage of ammunition near civilian areas, while the country faces a severe shortage of Patriot interceptor missiles. The attacks mark a shift in Russian tactics aimed at exhausting Ukraine's air defences and spreading fear among the population.

East Manggarai Sub-district Head Resigns After Confronting BNPB, Now Chooses to Become Earthquake Volunteer

Agustinus Supratman, the sub-district head of Lamba Leda Utara in East Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, has resigned following a viral incident in which he berated a National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) official. He stated the decision was made without external pressure and was taken for the greater good. After stepping down, he intends to serve as a volunteer to assist communities affected by the magnitude 7.7 earthquake.

Minimal Invasive Cardiac Surgery: A Procedure for More Efficient Recovery

Minimal Invasive Cardiac Surgery (MICS) offers a less invasive alternative to conventional coronary artery bypass grafting, avoiding the need to split the breastbone. Studies show MICS achieves comparable complete revascularisation rates while reducing bleeding and potentially lowering the risk of sternal complications. The approach aims to deliver optimal bypass outcomes with faster patient recovery.

Layered Charges for Batam Casino Gambling Boss

Indonesian National Police have raided an illegal casino in Batam, detaining 197 people including the owner, managers, dealers, and players. The owner, identified as Suwanda alias Akau, now faces charges under the new Criminal Code as well as money laundering offences. Police seized approximately Rp 7.79 billion in cash along with numerous gambling machines.

Interested in Owning an Alfamart? Here Are the Costs and Break-Even Point for 2026

Alfamart, one of Indonesia's largest minimarket chains, offers three franchise schemes for prospective partners, with initial investment ranging from Rp300 million to over Rp800 million. The franchise fee is set at Rp45 million for five years, and royalty fees are calculated progressively from 0% to 4% based on net sales. Applicants must be Indonesian citizens with a business entity and meet specific location and licensing requirements.

KKP first to use digital guide to safeguard fishing crew rights

Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries has for the first time deployed a digital inspection tool to monitor compliance with fishing crew rights and safety standards. The joint inspection at Benoa Port in Bali covered working conditions, occupational health and safety, accommodation, and wage systems aboard four vessels. The initiative also marks an early step in implementing ILO Convention C-188 following its ratification by Indonesia.

Nepal Reverses Decision to Reject Foreign Aid

The Nepalese government has reversed its earlier decision to decline foreign assistance for rescue operations following devastating floods that killed hundreds, citing pressure from the international community. Foreign experts will be allowed in limited areas to help identify victims, including missing foreign nationals. The disaster was caused by a glacier collapse rather than seismic activity, according to the US Geological Survey.

Human Ageing Occurs in Major Waves at These Two Ages

New research published in Nature Aging reveals that human ageing does not follow a steady, linear decline but instead accelerates in distinct waves at around ages 44 and 60. Scientists from Stanford School of Medicine tracked over 135,000 biological markers in 108 participants and found that roughly 81 percent of ageing-related molecules shift sharply at these two life stages. The findings suggest opportunities for more precisely timed preventive care and medical interventions.