Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 29 August 2026

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Why Did Police Arrest a TNI Soldier During Jakarta Protest?

Jakarta police have confirmed the arrest of a TNI soldier during a protest outside the parliament complex, attributing the incident to a misunderstanding caused by the large crowd. Both the police and TNI have stated that the matter has been resolved through coordination between the two institutions. The arrest, which was captured on video and circulated on social media, involved an individual who claimed to be from Battalion 203 and denied participating in the demonstration.

Indonesian Urologists Increasingly Tested in Robotic Surgery Era, Here's the Proof!

Mayapada Healthcare is advancing its robotic urology surgery capabilities through a proctorship programme with Apollo Hospitals India, performing complex procedures using the da Vinci Xi system. The initiative aims to strengthen clinical outcomes and patient safety while positioning Mayapada Hospital Jakarta Selatan as a leading centre for urological and cancer care in Indonesia.

Odekta impressed by enthusiasm of Merdeka Run participants

Indonesian runner Odekta Naibaho expressed admiration for the lively atmosphere at the Merdeka Run 2026, held at Merdeka Palace in Jakarta as part of the 81st anniversary celebrations of the Republic of Indonesia. She noted that the event exceeded her time target, completing the eight-kilometre route in around 26 minutes. The free event drew 12,000 participants, significantly surpassing the initial target of 8,000.

Bank Jakarta wins best KEJAR implementation award 2026

Bank Jakarta has been recognised as the best regional development bank in the Java-Bali region for implementing the KEJAR financial inclusion programme at the 2026 KEJAR Award hosted by the Financial Services Authority (OJK). The award acknowledges the bank's efforts to expand financial access and improve financial literacy among students. The Jakarta provincial government and a partner special school were also recognised at the event.

Trump Announces Formation of US Space Academy, What For?

US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order establishing a US Space Academy to train civilian and military recruits for the space sector, where Washington faces intense competition with China. The academy will serve the US Space Force, NASA, and the civilian spaceflight industry, modelled on the West Point military academy. Trump also awarded the Congressional Space Medal of Honor to the Artemis 2 crew during the ceremony at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston.

23 Investment Galleries Opened Simultaneously

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI), together with MNC Sekuritas and supported by the Financial Services Authority (OJK), has inaugurated 23 Investment Galleries across various regions. The initiative aims to expand capital market literacy and inclusion, particularly among the younger generation. The event also recorded 5,938 IDX Mobile subscribers, far exceeding the initial target.

Danantara pushes Jasa Marga to strengthen public service transformation

PT Danantara Asset Management has urged state toll road operator PT Jasa Marga to deepen its service transformation, focusing on user experience, safety and tangible public benefits. During a visit to the Jasamarga Tollroad Command Center, Danantara's transportation director highlighted the importance of inclusive travel information and consistent rest area standards. Jasa Marga outlined its three-pillar strategy covering preservation, rest areas and toll road information services.

Just Because of Gallon Water, Millions of Indonesia's Middle Class Fall into Poverty

Indonesia's middle class shrank by 9.48 million people between 2019 and 2024, according to the Central Statistics Agency (BPS). Former finance minister Bambang Brodjonegoro attributes the decline not only to the Covid-19 pandemic and layoffs but also to daily spending habits such as reliance on bottled and gallon water. He notes that in developed countries, public drinking water facilities protect middle-class purchasing power, whereas in Indonesia such spending erodes incomes.

BGN Reveals Why SPPG Heads Must Be in the Kitchen from 02.00

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has tightened operational standards for the Free Nutritious Meals programme, requiring heads of Nutrition Service Fulfilment Units (SPPG) to be on duty from 02.00 WIB. The policy follows findings of food poisoning incidents linked to undisciplined implementation of standard operating procedures. BGN has also introduced layered monitoring and threatened dishonourable dismissal for SPPG heads absent for ten consecutive days.

Deputy Governor Rano opens Jakarta Sehat Meruya Fest in Kembangan

Jakarta Deputy Governor Rano Karno opened the Jakarta Sehat Meruya Fest 2026 in Meruya Utara, Kembangan, West Jakarta, praising residents' enthusiasm and community spirit. The self-funded event marks both Indonesia's 81st Independence Day and the 41st anniversary of RW 010. Rano highlighted the festival's role in fostering harmony and supporting local micro, small and medium enterprises.

Through This Programme, BRI Helps Sorong Dried Fish Entrepreneurs Move Up a Class

State-owned Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) is empowering micro, small and medium enterprises in Sorong, Southwest Papua, through its Klasterku Hidupku mentoring programme. The initiative has helped dried fish processors like Nursia access financing, form business clusters, and improve branding and marketing. BRI says it remains committed to supporting Indonesian MSMEs to become more resilient and sustainable.

1,190 infertile turtle eggs found in Sambas destroyed

The Pontianak Marine and Fisheries Management Office has destroyed 1,190 infertile turtle eggs discovered in Sambas as part of efforts to protect the fully protected species. A further 96 eggs remain in incubation for handling until hatching. Officials also warned the public that consuming turtle eggs poses health risks due to heavy metal contamination, dispelling myths about their supposed benefits.

UMJ professor highlights challenges for BGN head in improving MBG governance

Professor Sri Yunanto of Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta argues that the focus of the Free Nutritious Meals programme should now shift from whether it continues to how its management and governance can be improved. He stresses that the new head of the National Nutrition Agency, Sudaryono, must strengthen oversight from production units to beneficiaries, involve local governments, and utilise technology for integrated monitoring.

Pariaman forms sanitation village to break stunting chain

The Pariaman city government in West Sumatra has established a Sanitation Village in Koto Marapak to strengthen clean and healthy living behaviours and reduce stunting. The initiative involves collaboration between local government, health experts, village officials, students, and community leaders. Pariaman's stunting rate has fallen from 20.3 percent in 2021 to 15.7 percent in 2024.

Collaborating with Alumni, Pramono Approves Kanisius Bus Stop Revitalisation

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has approved a proposal by Kanisius College alumni to revitalise the bus stop in front of the school in Menteng, Central Jakarta. The project will be carried out in collaboration with alumni and will include a pedestrian crossing with traffic lights to improve safety, particularly for students. Pramono framed the initiative as part of broader efforts to strengthen Jakarta as an inclusive global city through collaboration with educational institutions.

BPMA encourages Japanese firms to continue oil and gas investment in Aceh

The Aceh Oil and Gas Management Agency (BPMA) is urging Japanese companies JOGMEC and JAPEX to move from a joint study of the North Sumatra Basin into exploration and investment in Aceh. The six-month study, conducted with Padjadjaran University, aims to evaluate undiscovered oil and gas potential in the region. BPMA has pledged to support a secure, transparent investment climate and facilitate coordination with stakeholders.

Vice Presidential Secretariat: Stunting handling must be seen as investment in human capital development

The Vice Presidential Secretariat has emphasised that tackling stunting should be regarded as a long-term investment in Indonesia's human resources, with interventions beginning as early as adolescence and continuing through the first 1,000 days of life. The call was made during a regional coordination meeting in Medan attended by 800 participants, including 154 regional heads from across Sumatra. North Sumatra's Deputy Governor reaffirmed the province's commitment to prioritising stunting reduction as a key programme.

TPKS Report Dropped, Victim Vows to Pursue All Formal Legal Mechanisms

A female employee at a prominent architecture firm in Bandung has vowed to pursue all formal legal avenues after police dropped her sexual violence complaint. Her legal team argues the investigation was prematurely terminated without substantive examination of the power imbalance between the accused employer and the victim. The case is being framed as a test of whether Indonesia's 2022 sexual violence law provides genuine protection for victims in the workplace.

Three Named Suspects in Vilmei's Rp 1.28 Billion Embezzlement Case

Bekasi City Police have named three individuals as suspects in the alleged embezzlement of Rp 1.28 billion belonging to content creator Vilmei. The suspects, identified by the initials Z, A, and L, have been detained as the case moves to the investigation stage. Police are still examining the modus operandi and reconciling witness statements with the evidence gathered.

Jakarta Investment Reaches Rp173.6 Trillion, Rosan Reveals Key Magnet Sectors

Investment realisation in Jakarta reached Rp173.6 trillion in the first half of 2026, accounting for 17.2% of the national total. Minister of Investment and Downstreaming Rosan Roeslani highlighted digital infrastructure, AI, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing as strategic sectors shaping future investment. Jakarta is also being prepared as the starting point for an international financial centre in Indonesia.

Attorney General's Office reminds former Deputy Head of BGN of limits on pretrial motions

The Attorney General's Office has reminded Lodewyk Pusung, former Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), that the new Criminal Procedure Code restricts pretrial motions on the same matter to a single filing. Pusung has now filed his third pretrial motion after two previous attempts were rejected by the Central Jakarta and South Jakarta District Courts. He is a suspect in an alleged corruption case involving mark-ups in the procurement of goods for the Free Nutritious Meals programme, including 21,801 electric motorcycles worth Rp1.035 trillion.

Jambi City Environment Agency: Air Pollution Index Trend Declining but Still Unhealthy

The Jambi City Environment Agency reports that the Air Pollutant Standard Index (ISPU) has begun to decline, though air quality remains in the unhealthy category at 158. The agency attributes the elevated levels to smoke from forest and land fires in surrounding areas carried by wind. Vulnerable groups are advised to wear masks and limit outdoor activities.

After Constitutional Court Ruling, DPR Pushes for Independent Regulator of the Advocate Profession

Following Constitutional Court Decision No. 126/PUU-XXIV/2026, which declared the Advocates Law conditionally unconstitutional, the House of Representatives is moving to redesign the regulatory framework for the legal profession. Commission III member I Wayan Sudirta has proposed establishing an independent council or board to separate the representative and regulatory functions of advocate organisations. The proposed body would oversee competency standards, professional examinations, licensing, supervision, and continuing professional development.

Repeat Offender Caught Stealing Six Bangkok Chickens from Bogor Islamic Boarding School

A 46-year-old man with a prior criminal record was apprehended by residents after stealing six Bangkok chickens from an Islamic boarding school in Parung, Bogor. The suspect was caught after the victim heard suspicious noises near the chicken coop while waking students for pre-dawn prayers. Police have charged him under Article 477 of the Criminal Code for livestock theft, which carries a maximum sentence of seven years.

BTN holds mass credit agreement for subsidised home ownership in Jambi

PT Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) has held a mass credit agreement for 250 subsidised housing units in Muaro Jambi, part of efforts to reduce a backlog of around 130,000 homes in the Jambi area. The programme offers interest rates of five per cent for tenors of up to 40 years, supported by government subsidy policy. Local leaders pledged to collaborate on basic infrastructure such as roads, clean water and waste management to support the national three million houses programme.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Says 12,000 People Took Part in Merdeka Run 2026

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya announced that around 12,000 people participated in the Merdeka Run 2026 in Jakarta on Saturday, 29 August, as part of Indonesia's independence celebrations. The event featured an 8-kilometre route for general participants and a 2.5-kilometre route for participants with special needs, underscoring inclusivity. The run served as the closing event for the 2026 Independence Month programme.

Pesantren Leader in Bali: NU Congress Not Just About Electing a Chairman, but a Visionary Leader

A pesantren leader in Bali has urged that the 2026 Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress be seen as a forum for shaping the organisation's direction rather than merely electing new leadership. H. Ainun Ni'am emphasised that the elected chairman should be a product of the congress, not its primary goal, given the increasingly complex needs of Indonesian society. He also named several figures, including Gus Kikin and Gus Rozin, as having the capacity to lead NU forward.

Residents Deny Narrative That Child Bitten by Pitbull in Bandung Provoked the Dog

Residents of Grand Cendana Residence in Bandung Regency have refuted claims that a child bitten by a pitbull had provoked the animal, citing CCTV footage and witness accounts. The dog was reportedly loose and chased the children before attacking the victim, who suffered lacerations to the head and ear. Local officials also clarified that the dog's owner no longer resides within the housing complex and is not related to the victim's family.

Jakarta Investment Reaches Rp173.6 Trillion, Digital Sector Among Key Drivers

Jakarta recorded Rp173.6 trillion in realised investment during the first half of 2026, equivalent to 17.2% of the national total. Investment Minister Rosan P. Roeslani highlighted a shift towards digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, clean energy and advanced manufacturing. The capital is being positioned as a strategic hub for Indonesia's digital economy and a future international financial centre.

Ma'ruf Amin and Gus Kikin visit grave of NU founder

Former Vice President Ma'ruf Amin and leading PBNU chairmanship candidate Gus Kikin made a joint pilgrimage to the grave of Nahdlatul Ulama founder KH Hasyim Asy'ari in Jombang ahead of the organisation's 35th Congress. The meeting drew attention amid the upcoming leadership election, though aides said it should not automatically be read as an endorsement. The congress is scheduled to run from 27 to 31 August 2026 in Jombang.

Grim Aftermath of Car Explosion in Russia, Soldier Killed on the Spot

A car explosion in Saint Petersburg killed a Russian lieutenant colonel and injured his wife, who was hospitalised. Russia has blamed Ukraine for a series of assassinations targeting senior military officials linked to Moscow's war effort. Ukrainian sources have claimed responsibility for some attacks while denying others.

Video: To Make Investors Comfortable, Lampung Promises Easier Permits

Lampung Governor Rahmat Mirzani Djausal has identified agriculture, plantations and tourism as the province's main sources of economic growth. The provincial government is seeking to attract sustainable investment by streamlining licensing, improving infrastructure and maintaining security. The strategy also aims to ensure economic growth reduces poverty and reaches from villages to cities.

First in Indonesia, School Establishes Waste Education Centre

A school foundation in Cianjur, West Java, has established what is claimed to be Indonesia's first school-based Waste Education Centre (WEC). The programme integrates environmental education across all levels from kindergarten to senior high school, aiming to reduce waste and foster a generation that cares about the environment. The initiative has reportedly reduced waste output significantly and inspired students, parents, and staff to adopt low-waste lifestyles.

Preserving Dieng Heritage: 13 Bajang Children Undergo Dreadlock Cutting Ritual

Thirteen children with naturally matted hair, known locally as bajang, took part in the traditional dreadlock cutting ceremony at the Arjuna Temple complex during the Dieng Culture Festival 2026. The ritual, which follows a procession and purification rite, is central to preserving the cultural heritage of the Dieng community. The festival, themed 'Spirit of Harmony', is expected to attract around 30,000 visitors.

Preserving Ancestral Heritage Through Gotong Royong at Mulud Adat Bayan

The Mulud Adat Bayan tradition in North Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, showcases the enduring spirit of gotong royong as villagers voluntarily contribute crops and livestock to fulfil vows. Unlike ordinary Maulid celebrations, this ancestral ritual prohibits formal invitations, with attendees coming of their own accord. The collected offerings are collectively prepared and shared, reflecting a deep commitment to preserving cultural heritage.

Japan Sends Helicopters to Help Tackle Forest Fires in Indonesia

Japan is deploying three CH-47 transport helicopters and around 600 Self-Defense Forces personnel to assist Indonesia in combating forest and land fires in Kalimantan. Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi announced the mission, which marks the first time the SDF has conducted such an operation overseas. The deployment follows a request from the Indonesian government and comes days after the first trilateral defence ministers' meeting between Japan, Australia, and Indonesia.

Palu Prosecutor's Office opens free legal consultation service

The Palu District Prosecutor's Office in Central Sulawesi has launched a free legal consultation service at coffee shops on weekends to bring legal assistance closer to the public. The initiative covers civil, criminal, and administrative law matters, allowing residents to obtain initial guidance without visiting the prosecutor's office. Residents have welcomed the service, saying it helps them understand legal issues they are facing.

President University opens 'World Campus' for online undergraduate study

President University has launched a World Campus programme offering an online undergraduate degree in Management in Information System, with plans to expand study options. The programme aims to provide an international, industry-integrated learning experience conducted entirely in English. The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology has urged universities to apply online and hybrid learning proportionally without compromising quality.

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 bottlenecks. Minister Rosan Roeslani highlighted that global investment is shifting towards strategic sectors such as digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and clean energy. Jakarta remains a key investment hub, contributing 17.2 per cent of national investment realisation in the first half of 2026.

Nepal government evacuates 184 foreign tourists after flash floods

Nepalese authorities have evacuated 184 foreign tourists following a devastating flash flood in the mountainous Bhote Koshi river area, while 420 others remain unaccounted for. The disaster, initially thought to have been triggered by an earthquake, was later clarified by the US Geological Survey as being caused by a glacier collapse. The death toll has risen to 626, with more than 2,000 people still missing.

Indonesia pushes for safer, evidence-based stem cell therapy

Indonesia's Health Ministry is urging the development of stem cell therapy as a safe, evidence-based medical service, emphasising the need for strong clinical governance, public education, and competent oversight. The ministry highlighted the importance of accurate information, licensed laboratories, and a strengthened regenerative therapy ecosystem to ensure real patient benefits. This push comes amid concerns over unproven claims and illegal stem cell clinics in the country.

BNPB tackles forest and land fires in Teluk Bintuni with water bombing helicopter

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has intensified efforts to combat forest and land fires in Teluk Bintuni Regency, West Papua, deploying a water bombing helicopter that has conducted 69 water drops. The operations are being carried out with consideration for technical and safety aspects, including terrain characteristics and water sources. Satellite monitoring has detected 36 hotspots across West Papua Province, with an indicative burned area of 2,496.39 hectares.

Ministry of Forestry to rehabilitate 6,486 hectares of mangroves in East Kalimantan

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry, through the World Bank-funded Mangroves for Coastal Resilience programme, is targeting the rehabilitation of 6,486 hectares of mangrove forest in East Kalimantan by 2026. Community groups have begun signing cooperation agreements to carry out the planting work, with two groups already planting 151 hectares. The initiative aims to preserve the environment while providing legal and financial safeguards for participating communities.

Viral Charity Event Linked to 27 August Protest, Penjaringan Police Reveal Facts

Penjaringan police have clarified that a viral video showing officers distributing packages on 27 August was a routine community policing charity event, not related to the mass protest held that day. The event, part of the 'Sabuk Kamtibmas' programme, involved 70 participants from local community groups and online motorcycle taxi drivers. Police urged the public to verify information before sharing it on social media.

Prabowo to Attend Eastern Economic Forum in Russia

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto is confirmed as the guest of honour at the 11th Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, where he will hold bilateral talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The visit signals Jakarta's continued engagement with Moscow on economic and diplomatic fronts. The news roundup also covers the Nepal-Tibet flood disaster and a fact-check on a viral protest video in Jakarta.

Investment Dilemma: High Stock Appeal Hampered by Governance Issues

Indonesia's capital market offers strong long-term investment potential, with historical data showing near-certain positive returns over a decade and significant dividend growth. However, this appeal is undermined by market architecture and governance standards that fall short of international expectations. Institutional investors increasingly demand legal certainty, minority investor protection, and accountable trading infrastructure alongside high returns.

Minister asks Kalimantan operators to adjust schedules amid forest fire haze

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has urged airline and shipping operators in Kalimantan to adjust travel schedules in response to haze from forest and land fires. The minister stressed that safety must remain the top priority, with operators expected to assess weather conditions regularly and consider delaying or cancelling journeys if visibility falls below safe standards. No airports have been closed so far, but flight schedules are being adapted to changing conditions.

NTT Earthquake Update: 111 Fatalities, 9,000 Aftershocks

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has confirmed 111 deaths following the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, with nearly 9,300 aftershocks recorded since the magnitude 7.7 event on 15 August. The number of displaced people has risen sharply to over 21,000 in Ngada Regency alone after data validation. More than 1,900 tonnes of logistics have been dispatched to affected areas.

Fire at Logistics Barracks Near PIK Hospital Extinguished, Suspected Electrical Short Circuit

A fire broke out in a logistics barracks near PIK Hospital in North Jakarta, suspected to have been caused by an electrical short circuit. Firefighters managed to extinguish the blaze and prevent it from spreading further, with no casualties reported. The incident caused an estimated loss of Rp 200 million.

Mulia Boga Raya Marks 20th Anniversary by Strengthening Partnership with Bel Group and Preparing New Factory

PT Mulia Boga Raya Tbk (MBR), producer of Prochiz cheese and a subsidiary of Garudafood, celebrated its 20th anniversary by deepening its strategic partnership with French global cheese company Bel Group. The collaboration aims to strengthen Indonesia's cheese industry, with Bel's CEO visiting a new production facility under development in Sumedang, West Java. The new plant is expected to be fully operational by 2028, boosting MBR's total production capacity to around 60,000 tonnes per year.