Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 29 August 2026

Showing 151-200 of 833 articles

Kimia Farma expands stem cell education, pushes for multicentre studies

State-owned pharmaceutical company Kimia Farma is expanding public education on stem cell therapy safety and benefits while advocating for multicentre studies to strengthen clinical evidence. The company highlighted its StemXera product, developed with Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, at the ACTO-ASPI 2026 conference in Jakarta. Kimia Farma aims to build a regenerative medicine ecosystem in Indonesia through collaboration between healthcare institutions, academics, researchers, regulators, and industry.

IAI: Accountancy profession will not be replaced by AI

The Indonesian Institute of Accountants (IAI) Central Java has stated that the accountancy profession will not be replaced by artificial intelligence, citing the irreplaceable human judgement required in the field. A BPK official acknowledged AI poses challenges for auditors but noted that Government Regulation No. 43/2025 now mandates financial reporting be prepared by certified, competent professionals, strengthening the profession's legitimacy.

Eko Surya Lesmana Introduces SPLIT Concept: Loss of Critical Voices Signals Fragile Power

Dr. Eko Surya Lesmana argues that the disappearance of critical voices within an organisation or state is an early warning sign of crumbling power, not a sign of strength. He introduces the concept of SPLIT to describe how external power can appear intact while internal trust and support quietly erode. The ideas will be discussed at a book review event in Jakarta on 29 August 2026.

Hajar Aswad Said to Have Fallen from Heaven, Researchers Reveal Its Origins

Scientists have long sought to explain the origins and characteristics of the Hajar Aswad, the black stone embedded in the Kaaba. A 1980 study by E. Thomsen suggests the stone may be a meteorite, with its white interior and black outer shell matching fragments found at the Wabar impact crater in Saudi Arabia. The research offers a scientific explanation for the traditional belief that the stone was originally white before turning black.

Fire at project barracks in Penjaringan causes losses of Rp200 million

A fire broke out at a project logistics barracks in Penjaringan, North Jakarta, on Saturday afternoon, causing estimated losses of Rp200 million. The blaze is suspected to have been triggered by an electrical short circuit. Firefighters received assistance from staff at the nearby PIK Hospital, whose perimeter fence was affected by the fire.

South Aceh Regency receives Rp3.33 billion dividend from Bank Aceh Syariah

The South Aceh Regency Government has received a dividend of Rp3.33 billion from PT Bank Aceh Syariah for the 2025 financial year. The bank also distributed Rp400 million in corporate zakat. The regent said the funds would support regional development programmes and poverty reduction efforts.

Foam Factory Fire in Cileungsi, Bogor Destroys Several Cars

A fire broke out at a foam factory in Gandoang Village, Cileungsi, Bogor, West Java, on Saturday afternoon, destroying several vehicles. The blaze is believed to have started from welding sparks during the installation of a fire protection system, which ignited flammable styrofoam material. Firefighters extinguished the fire within two hours and no casualties were reported.

Pak Sule, a farmer's son from Flores serving at Sekolah Rakyat

Sulaiman Sulang, a former administrative staff member, has found deep purpose as a guardian at Sekolah Rakyat in Malang, East Java, a school for children from the poorest families. Drawing from his own humble beginnings as a farmer's son from Flores, he motivates students through his achievements in writing and environmental conservation. His story highlights the government's initiative to provide education and mentorship to the most disadvantaged children.

The Origins of Taxation: The Figure Behind the System That Now Burdens the Public

Taxation, a cornerstone of state revenue, has roots tracing back to Ancient Egypt around 3,000 BC under the Pharaohs. The system was designed to fund public works and maintain social order, with rates adjusted based on productivity and the Nile's flood levels. Modern tax systems continue to draw inspiration from these early practices, even as middle-class citizens increasingly feel the strain of tax obligations.

KAI Accelerates Upgrades to 190 Railway Crossings, 145 Sites Strengthened by August 2026

State-owned railway operator PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) has completed safety upgrades at 145 of 190 priority level crossings, reaching 77.37 percent of its 2026 target. The programme includes building guard posts, installing signage, safety equipment and communication devices. KAI has identified 3,674 level crossings across its operational network, of which 1,810 are prioritised for safety improvements.

Manpower Minister projects PTDI as aerospace centre of excellence

Manpower Minister Yassierli has inaugurated PT Dirgantara Indonesia's Training Centre and positioned the state-owned firm as a national aerospace centre of excellence aimed at supplying certified skilled workers to the global market. The initiative aligns with the government's 2026 targets of 150,000 national internship participants and 300,000 vocational training participants. PTDI has agreed to provide 500 internship places and 1,000 vocational training places next year, with plans to expand the model to mining, oil and gas, and IT sectors.

214 Thousand Litres of Clean Water Distributed to Earthquake-Affected Residents in Flores

The Ministry of Public Works has distributed 214,000 litres of clean water to 21,740 people across five regencies in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, following the recent earthquake. The distribution, ongoing since 19 August 2026, targets evacuation posts, health facilities, schools, and residential areas. The ministry has deployed 12 water tanker trucks and 27 public hydrants to expand service coverage during the emergency response period.

Deputy Minister: School Health Units to anchor follow-up on Free Health Screening results

Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Fajar Riza Ul Haq says School Health Units (UKS) will serve as the anchor linking schools with community health centres to ensure follow-up on the Free Health Screening (CKG) programme. The initiative aims to integrate health checks with the educational environment and promote healthy living habits from an early age. The approach is exemplified by SMP Negeri 5 Bogor, which has built a strong healthy school culture through various student ambassador programmes.

DPD RI proposes adopting KIP Kuliah model for Papua special autonomy education fund management

Senator Filep Wamafma has urged regional governments in Papua to adopt the KIP Kuliah distribution system for managing special autonomy education funds. He argues that the model would improve targeting, verification, and monitoring of scholarships for indigenous Papuan students. The proposal comes amid a gap between the approximately 60,000 active students in Papua and only 16,000 KIP Kuliah recipients.

Fadli Zon outlines vision for cultural advancement as pillar of creative economy

Minister of Culture Fadli Zon has called for Indonesia's cultural heritage to be transformed from a marker of national identity into a new economic pillar based on creative industries and local wisdom. Speaking after receiving an award in South Jakarta, he emphasised that cultural advancement is a constitutional mandate under Article 32 of the 1945 Constitution. He also highlighted the government's commitment to preserving and developing Indonesia's cultural heritage, including that of Sumatra.

13-Year-Old Girl Impregnated by Father of East Sumba DPRD Member Still Traumatised

A 13-year-old girl in East Sumba, East Nusa Tenggara, remains too traumatised to give a statement to police after allegedly being impregnated by the father of a local DPRD member. The case was reported to Lewa Police and is under investigation, with the Social Affairs Agency providing support. The suspect has reportedly filed a counter-complaint alleging defamation.

Unwilling to Waste Mushrooms, Astuti Builds a Business and Leads a Waste Bank

A micro-entrepreneur in Balikpapan has turned unsold oyster mushrooms into value-added products, demonstrating how small-scale innovation can strengthen household economic resilience. Her journey, supported by PNM Mekaar financing and mentoring, has also led her to become a community leader in waste management. The story highlights the broader social impact of ultra-micro business empowerment.

Ministry of Social Affairs distributes 116 mobility aids for people with disabilities

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs has distributed 116 mobility aids to people with disabilities in Pamekasan Regency, East Java, through its Atensi social rehabilitation assistance programme. The aid, which includes wheelchairs, prosthetic legs, and walking aids, was channelled following a request from local MP Ansari. Officials said the programme reflects the government's commitment to strengthening social protection and hope it will boost recipients' morale.

Central Kalimantan Governor Offers Rp5 Million Reward for Reporting Forest Burners

Central Kalimantan Governor Agustiar Sabran has offered a Rp5 million reward for accurate information leading to the identification of forest and land burners in East Kotawaringin Regency. He assured informants that their identities would be kept confidential, while urging the public not to make false accusations. The move comes amid a strong El Niño-driven dry season that has heightened fire risks across the province.

Deputy Social Affairs Minister: State to lift children from poor families to break poverty cycle

Deputy Social Affairs Minister Agus Jabo Priyono has said the government will directly enrol children from the poorest households into Sekolah Rakyat (People's Schools) to break intergenerational poverty through education. The programme targets children from desil 1 and 2 of the National Socio-Economic Single Data, with a goal of reaching one million students by 2029. Several regions, including Nias Barat and Grobogan, have begun preparing land for the schools.

Longer breastfeeding may reduce ADHD symptoms in children

A Norwegian study involving 37,600 families suggests that longer exclusive breastfeeding is associated with lower levels of ADHD symptoms in children aged three, five and eight. Researchers from the University of Bergen found the strongest link with exclusive breastfeeding up to six months, though they caution the observational study does not prove causation.

Xi Jinping and the story of exchange between two ancient civilisations

President Xi Jinping's 2016 visit to Egypt highlighted the long history of mutual learning between Chinese and Egyptian civilisations. The visit included a tour of Luxor's ancient temples and the joint launch of the 2016 China-Egypt Culture Year. Xi is expected to make a second state visit to Egypt a decade later.

Plenary Session on PBNU Chairman Election Deadlocks

The third plenary session of the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress in Jombang ended in deadlock over the mechanism for electing the Chairman of the NU Executive Board (PBNU). Delegates agreed to hold an open vote after Maghrib prayers to decide between the existing system and a proposed Ahlul Halli wal Aqdi (AHWA) mechanism. The outcome will determine whether the chairman is elected directly by congress participants or through a council of senior clerics.

Government Urged to Reassess Coal Public Service Agency Plan

The Indonesian Mining and Energy Forum has called on the government to review its plan to establish a coal Public Service Agency, citing the need for clearer institutional design and working mechanisms. The forum warns that without transparent and measurable procedures, the agency could create business uncertainty and fail to ensure fair treatment for all industry players.

Voting on PBNU Chairman Election Mechanism: Two Options to Be Chosen

The Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) congress in Jombang is set to vote on the mechanism for electing the new chairman of its executive board (PBNU). Delegates will choose between retaining the existing consensus-and-voting system or adopting a new process involving a shortlist of five candidates to be decided by the Ahlul Halli wal Aqdi council of senior clerics. The vote on the system is scheduled for Saturday evening, with no candidate names yet under discussion.

Forest Destroyers Sentenced to Death

Ancient Indonesia, during the Majapahit Kingdom, had strict regulations to protect forests, including the death penalty for unauthorised tree felling at night. The Kutara Manawa legal code and other historical sources reveal that forests were considered vital to the kingdom's wealth and food security. Communities that protected forests were even exempted from taxes, reflecting a deep cultural commitment to environmental preservation.

Indonesians Will No Longer See Forfeited Internet Data: What to Know

Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital has issued a circular requiring telecom operators to protect unused mobile data, following a Constitutional Court ruling that declared forfeiture of paid-for quota unlawful. Operators must offer customers options such as rollover, extension, or refunds, and provide clear information on data rights and usage. The policy aims to ensure fair treatment of consumers and compliance with Indonesian legal standards.

HIPMI Chairman Ade Jona Receives Young Economic Mover Award

Ade Jona Prasetyo, Chairman of HIPMI and member of Indonesia's House of Representatives, has been recognised with the detikSumatera Awards 2026 for his role as an inspirational young economic mover. The award highlights his contributions to fostering entrepreneurship and strengthening MSME competitiveness. His legislative work on resource management and energy security is seen as a bridge between business and policy.

PBNU Congress: Debate over Chairman Election System Deadlocked, Organisation Commission Session Suspended

The Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) congress in Jombang has suspended its Organisation Commission session after delegates deadlocked over the method for electing the organisation's chairman. Participants were split between a direct voting system and the Ahlul Halli wal Aqdi (AHWA) mechanism. The session is set to resume in the evening, when delegates will vote to determine which election system will be used.

Sports Industry Investment Potential Reaches Rp8,000 Trillion, Kemenpora-BKPM Strengthen Synergy

Indonesia's Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani has highlighted the sports industry's potential to contribute up to US$521 billion (Rp8,000 trillion) to the national economy. The Ministry of Investment and the Ministry of Youth and Sports have signed a memorandum of understanding to streamline business licensing and boost investment in the sports sector. The collaboration aims to provide regulatory certainty and expand investment opportunities across various sporting fields.

Maapam Tradition and Salapan Dance Designated as Intangible Cultural Heritage

The Maapam tradition and Salapan Aia Bangih dance from West Pasaman have been officially recognised as Indonesia's Intangible Cultural Heritage (WBTb) from 2025. The designation acknowledges the historical, social, and cultural value of these traditions, which include the communal cooking of apam cakes using traditional methods. Local authorities have emphasised the importance of ensuring these cultural practices remain alive and are passed on to future generations.

Cell therapy development deemed to require a safe ecosystem

PT Bifarma Adiluhung-Regenic Stem Cell President Director Sandy Qlintang has stressed that advances in cell therapy and precision medicine must be accompanied by ecosystem readiness to ensure safe and sustainable application in Indonesia. The remarks were made during Kalbe Farma's Dr. Boenjamin Setiawan Distinguished Lecture Series 2026, which brought together over 200 doctors, researchers, academics, government representatives and health stakeholders. BPOM head Taruna Ikrar said Indonesia is proactively welcoming the new era of precision medicine and cell therapy through a new regulatory framework that does not compromise on safety, quality and efficacy.

West Papua Immigration strengthens coordination with local governments to monitor foreign nationals

The West Papua Regional Office of the Directorate General of Immigration is enhancing coordination with local governments to improve services and oversight of foreign nationals in West Papua and Southwest Papua. Officials emphasised that foreign investment benefits the region through job creation and human resource development, but must comply with applicable laws. The initiative aims to integrate immigration services with investment and labour developments without hindering regional investment.

HNW Urges Government to Fix Decile System, Fears Social Assistance Misses Target

Deputy Speaker of the MPR Hidayat Nur Wahid has called on the government to urgently address flaws in the decile-based welfare ranking system, citing widespread public complaints that inaccurate classifications have led to the wrongful termination of social assistance. He warned that the current reliance on statistical data fails to reflect real-world conditions, including cases of asset inheritance without income and high living costs. HNW urged improvements in ranking methodology, stronger ground verification, and faster appeal processes to ensure social protection programmes reach their intended beneficiaries.

Central Kalimantan Governor instructs strengthening of air fleet to tackle forest and land fires

Central Kalimantan Governor Agustiar Sabran has ordered the optimisation of aerial firefighting operations, particularly water bombing, to reach hotspots inaccessible by land. The instruction comes as 15 fire points remain active across the province, with over 7,200 personnel deployed. The government is also continuing weather modification technology operations alongside integrated ground and air suppression efforts.

White House Teleprompter Operator Fined Rp1 Billion for Insider Trading on Presidential Speeches

A White House teleprompter operator has settled insider trading charges with the US Commodity Futures Trading Commission after using advance access to President Trump's speeches to place bets on prediction markets. Gabriel Perez agreed to pay a US$65,000 civil penalty and forfeit over US$107,000 in winnings, and is banned from trading for three years. The case highlights growing regulatory scrutiny of misuse of confidential information in political prediction markets.

House Forms Working Committee on MSME Financing, Focusing on Capital Access

Indonesia's House of Representatives has established a working committee to address financing obstacles faced by micro, small, and medium enterprises and creative economy players. The committee will focus on expanding access to capital through simpler collateral requirements, streamlined application processes, and improved financial literacy. Lawmakers argue that resolving these barriers is crucial for job creation and long-term national economic resilience.

Attorney General's Office Highlights Third Pretrial Motion by Lodewyk Pusung, Cites Limits in New Criminal Procedure Code

The Attorney General's Office has reminded former Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency Lodewyk Pusung of restrictions on filing pretrial motions under the new Criminal Procedure Code. Pusung has submitted a third pretrial motion related to alleged corruption in the Free Nutritious Meals programme. Prosecutors will scrutinise whether the motion's object, basis, and substance duplicate previous filings.

Fahira Idris Urges Investors to Engage in 37 Strategic Jakarta Investment Projects

Senator Fahira Idris has welcomed the Jakarta provincial government's offer of 37 strategic investment projects worth around Rp115 trillion at the Jakarta Investment Festival 2026. She argues that investor involvement is crucial for accelerating Jakarta's transformation into a global city while ensuring development benefits residents. Idris outlined five strategic reasons, including expanding financing sources and creating new growth centres.

127 Garuda bridges boost connectivity for West Sumatra residents after disaster

The Indonesian Army's Kodam XX/Tuanku Imam Bonjol has completed 127 Garuda Merah Putih bridges in West Sumatra to restore connectivity following the hydrometeorological disaster in late 2025. The military also built clean water boreholes and plans to expand the programme in September with 22 additional bridges and 97 more wells. Local officials say the infrastructure is helping revive economic activity and improve access for schoolchildren and farmers.

Gov't pledges more resilient tourism in Labuan Bajo post-earthquake

Indonesia's Tourism Ministry has announced plans to strengthen disaster risk management and develop new land-based attractions in Labuan Bajo following the August 15 earthquake. Recovery efforts will cover the entire tourism supply chain, including hotels, restaurants, tour boats, and MSMEs, while also improving emergency response SOPs and evacuation routes. The government aims to restore market confidence and broaden economic benefits for the local community, with Komodo National Park and Padar Island already reopened after safety assessments.

Twitter revived, positions itself as X competitor

A group led by former Twitter legal adviser Stephen Coates has launched a revived Twitter platform at Twitter.now, positioning it as a competitor to Elon Musk's X. The project, backed by a start-up called Operation Bluebird, claims X has abandoned its trademark rights and charges users $20 for founder access. The platform includes an AI fact-checking tool called Vera and is currently involved in ongoing litigation with X.

KAI CEO: Strengthening railway level crossing safety continues

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) is accelerating safety improvements at level crossings, with 145 of 190 priority sites completed by 25 August 2026. The programme includes building guard posts, installing signage and communication equipment, and training crossing guards. KAI has mapped 3,674 level crossings across its operational areas and is urging road users to exercise greater discipline.

Lampung Police urge parents to monitor children's social circle, media

Lampung Regional Police have called on parents to actively supervise their children's social circles and digital activities to prevent involvement in drug abuse, promiscuity, illegal online loans, and violent rallies. Spokeswoman Senior Commissioner Yuni Iswandari stressed that knowing a child's whereabouts is not enough, urging open communication and early prevention to safeguard young people from peer pressure and deceptive online financial offers.

30+ Sample TWK Questions for the 2026 Official Schools SKD and Answer Keys

Prospective official school students preparing for the 2026 Basic Competency Selection (SKD) can use this collection of sample questions for the National Insight Test (TWK). The article provides 32 practice questions covering nationalism, integrity, state defence, state pillars, and the national language, along with their answer keys. The SKD comprises 110 questions across three test types, with the TWK section containing 30 questions worth 5 points each for correct answers.

South Sumatra Police Optimise Personnel to Tackle Forest and Land Fires in Ogan Ilir

South Sumatra Regional Police have deployed combined personnel to combat forest and land fires affecting approximately 10 hectares in Ogan Ilir Regency. Around half of the affected area has been extinguished despite difficult terrain hampering access to some fire hotspots. The operation forms part of the Aman Nusa II initiative aimed at controlling fires and preventing further spread.

Commission III Reveals 13 Criminal Offences Subject to Asset Forfeiture

The 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 was developed after considering expert advice to limit the scope to economically motivated crimes or those with broad public impact. The commission also benchmarked asset forfeiture rules in countries such as New Zealand, Singapore, Italy, and the United States.

Once Welcomed, Rohingya Refugees Now Face Rejection in Malaysia

Rohingya refugees in Malaysia are facing growing hostility, with community-run schools raided, families evicted from villages, and anti-Rohingya rhetoric entering mainstream politics. Once seen as a safe Muslim-majority haven, Malaysia now hosts over 126,000 Rohingya, but many live in fear amid rising scapegoating over living costs and social tensions. Activists warn the community is being used as a political scapegoat ahead of the next general election.

China Quietly Controls World Oil Reserves, For What Purpose?

China has amassed the world's largest strategic oil reserve, estimated at up to 1.4 billion barrels, providing Beijing with significant leverage over global oil markets and a critical buffer against Western intervention. The stockpile allowed China to slash crude imports by 23% during the Iran crisis, shielding its economy from price shocks. Analysts note this energy security strategy has transformed China's vulnerability, particularly regarding potential conflict over Taiwan.

BKPM strengthens investment climate quality through debottlenecking

Indonesia's Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming/BKPM is intensifying efforts to improve the investment climate by streamlining licensing, enhancing legal certainty, and facilitating the resolution of investment obstacles. Minister Rosan Roeslani highlighted the importance of collaboration between central and regional governments to ensure projects are realised and benefit the economy. Jakarta remains a key investment hub, contributing 17.2 per cent of national investment realisation in the first half of 2026.