Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 29 August 2026

Showing 251-300 of 833 articles

Aceh government reactivates Aceh-Penang shipping route after disaster

The Aceh provincial government is accelerating plans to reopen the Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) shipping route between Krueng Geukuh in North Aceh and Penang, Malaysia, after the project was halted by the hydrometeorological disaster in late 2025. A key step is the drafting of a Governor Regulation to assign regional-owned enterprise PT Pembangunan Aceh (PEMA) as the service operator. The government aims to coordinate with relevant ministries and begin bilateral negotiations to realise the route.

Bogor Police Chief Sends Off Elderly Domestic Worker Bi Heni with Free Umrah Gift from National Police Chief

Bi Heni, a 58-year-old domestic worker from Cibinong, Bogor, received a free umrah pilgrimage as a birthday gift from National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo through the Umrah Presisi programme. Despite only completing second grade of primary school and working as a domestic helper since age nine, she successfully put all four of her children through senior high school. Bogor Police Chief AKBP Wikha Ardilestanto attended her send-off ceremony and presented her with pocket money for the journey.

Hezbollah Blames Lebanese Government in Negotiations with Israel

Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem has accused the Lebanese government of taking a path that 'does not make Lebanon proud' by entering direct negotiations with Israel. He rejected the framework agreement signed by Lebanon and Israel in the United States on 26 June 2026, describing the move as a humiliating surrender to the enemy without gaining anything in return. Qassem also claimed that the current situation is not a mutual war but genuine Israeli aggression, and that Hezbollah does not want war.

Stella: Research and investment key to expanding health services

Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Stella Christie has stressed that large-scale health services must be supported by accessible, affordable, and accurate innovation. She highlighted the need for a continuous process from research and investment to infrastructure development. Deputy Health Minister Dante Saksono Harbuwono added that the Health Ministry is strengthening data integration through the Satu Sehat platform.

ISPA Cases Surge, Pontianak Health Office Prepares Oxygen Rooms

The Pontianak Health Office in West Kalimantan has prepared oxygen rooms at all health facilities as acute respiratory infection (ISPA) cases reach 300 per day due to forest and land fire haze. The office is also stockpiling logistics to handle ISPA and anticipated diarrhoea cases amid dwindling water supplies. Residents are urged to wear masks and reduce outdoor activities.

West Java BNN Affirms Free Drug Rehabilitation Services

The West Java National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has clarified that rehabilitation services for drug addicts at its facilities are free of charge, countering student claims that they require payment. The agency also stated that a privately-run rehabilitation centre under scrutiny, Ultra, holds complete permits and has a coaching agreement with BNNP West Java.

Empowering MSMEs to Remote Regions, BRI Helps Sorong Dried Fish Entrepreneur Level Up Through Klasterku Hidupku Programme

State-owned Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) is supporting dried fish entrepreneur Nursia in Sorong, Southwest Papua, through its Klasterku Hidupku mentoring programme. The initiative has helped her access financing, form a business cluster, and improve branding, packaging, and digital marketing. BRI says the programme reflects its commitment to empowering MSMEs through capital support, social capital strengthening, and digital transformation.

US President Had a Sister Hidden for 20 Years Due to Disability

Rosemary Kennedy, the younger sister of US President John F. Kennedy, was hidden from public life for around two decades after a lobotomy left her severely disabled. The operation, authorised by her father Joseph Kennedy, was intended to address her learning difficulties and emotional instability but instead caused paralysis and further brain damage. Her story highlights the harsh treatment of disability within prominent families in the mid-20th century.

NTT Earthquake Emergency Response Status Extended Until 12 September

The emergency response status for the earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) has been extended by 14 days until 12 September 2026. The extension aims to ensure smooth distribution of logistics and aid without administrative errors. The death toll has reached 111, with over 9,000 aftershocks recorded since the magnitude 7.7 quake on 15 August.

Public Works Minister: Tanjungpinang People's School construction to be completed by June 2027

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo has set a target for the construction of the People's School (Sekolah Rakyat) in Tanjungpinang, Riau Islands, to be completed by June 2027. The project is part of the third phase of a national programme and will be fully funded by the state budget at approximately Rp250 billion per school. The boarding school will be built on 12 hectares of land donated by the Tanjungpinang city government.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ribka Highlights Eastern Indonesia's Key Role for Golden Indonesia

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ribka Haluk has stressed that Eastern Indonesia will play a crucial role in realising the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision. She called for optimising the region's natural resources and human potential through improved competitiveness and welfare. Ribka also urged support for national priority programmes, including free nutritious meals and food self-sufficiency, while acknowledging infrastructure challenges in Papua.

Data Discrepancy: Hajj at an Unfinished Crossroads of Authority

A recent parliamentary session on hajj financial accountability was suspended after discrepancies emerged between data held by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and the Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH). The incident highlights unresolved coordination issues following the 2025 legal reforms that split technical and financial oversight of the pilgrimage. The article argues that while the legal framework has been updated, the collaborative governance structures needed to unify data and reporting have not yet been fully implemented.

Xiaomi may introduce 'smart privacy display' to rival Samsung

Xiaomi is reportedly developing a smart privacy display feature for its upcoming flagship Xiaomi 18 series, positioning it as a competitor to Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra. The feature would allow users to control when the screen restricts viewing angles, with automatic triggers for sensitive activities such as password entry and banking apps. The Xiaomi 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max are expected to debut in late September 2026.

Ruteng Airport Terminal Damaged by Earthquake, Flights Remain Normal

The terminal at Frans Sales Lega Airport in Ruteng, East Nusa Tenggara, has sustained damage from a series of earthquakes, including a magnitude 7.7 quake on 15 August. Despite collapsed ceilings and cracked walls, flight operations continue normally, with passengers choosing to wait outside the terminal due to safety concerns and lingering trauma. Repairs will be undertaken following a post-earthquake feasibility study.

30 Hectares of Cogon Grass in Rorotan, North Jakarta, Suspected of Being Deliberately Burned

A fire consumed approximately 30 hectares of cogon grass in the Nusa Kirana Cluster housing area in Rorotan, Cilincing, North Jakarta, with authorities suspecting arson. Fourteen fire engines and 84 personnel were deployed to tackle the blaze, which was brought under control after several hours. No casualties or evacuations were reported.

Bank Jakarta Promotes Saving Culture Among Students

Bank Jakarta is encouraging saving habits and financial literacy among students through the OJK's One Account One Student (KEJAR) programme. The bank uses its SimPel savings product and Bank Goes to School activities to support financial inclusion and education. Bank Jakarta received the KEJAR Award 2026 as the best regional development bank implementing the programme in the Java-Bali region.

East Java Named Best Province for Waste Management, Pushing Kurve and PSEL Initiatives

East Java has been recognised as the best province in Indonesia for waste management and environmental cleanliness at the 2026 Regional Government Achievement Awards. Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa attributed the success to collaborative efforts involving communities, schools, and local governments, while highlighting ongoing projects to convert waste into electricity. The province's waste management rate of 52.7 per cent far exceeds the national average of 24.95 per cent.

Polda Metro Responds to Viral Video of TNI Member Searched During Protest

Polda Metro Jaya has addressed a viral video showing police searching a plainclothes TNI member during a demonstration outside the DPR/MPR building. The police attributed the incident to a misunderstanding caused by the dense crowd, which made it difficult to identify personnel from different institutions. Both institutions have since coordinated to resolve the matter.

Baznas establishes 16 humanitarian service posts to assist NTT earthquake survivors

The National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) has set up 16 service posts across earthquake-affected areas of East Nusa Tenggara to accelerate aid delivery. The posts provide health services, communal kitchens, clean water facilities, and emergency mosques. Baznas says it will continue expanding services based on conditions on the ground.

Democracy in the grip of thumb activism: Strength or threat?

The article examines the rise of 'thumb activism' in Indonesia, where social media enables rapid mobilisation but often without accountability. It argues that while digital participation has opened new avenues for justice and transparency, the gap between online influence and real-world responsibility poses risks to democratic maturity.

Pelindo introduces maritime world and environmental care to children

PT Pelindo Marine Service has launched a community education programme in Surabaya to teach children about the maritime sector and environmental cleanliness. The 'Mariners Mengajar' initiative, themed 'Kenjeran Wani Resik', included tugboat-themed comic colouring activities and environmental awareness lessons. The programme forms part of the state-owned enterprise's broader corporate social responsibility efforts in the Kenjeran area.

Nepal Estimates Flood Recovery Costs at Up to US$5 Billion

Nepal's finance minister has said the country will need between US$4 billion and US$5 billion to rebuild infrastructure after this week's devastating glacial flood. The disaster has killed more than 600 people and knocked out hydropower projects accounting for over 12% of national generating capacity. The recovery bill is expected to be smaller than the US$9 billion spent after the 2015 earthquake but remains a severe blow to the economy.

Former domestic worker arrested over theft of employer's gold worth Rp119 million

Police in Banda Aceh have arrested a former domestic worker suspected of stealing gold jewellery from her previous employer, with losses estimated at Rp119 million. The suspect allegedly admitted to taking 13 mayam of pure gold, part of a larger reported loss of 19.5 mayam. Officers also seized a motorcycle, two mobile phones and a refrigerator believed to have been purchased with proceeds from the gold sales.

Minister Yandri Urges Village Youth to Become Entrepreneurs at Gen Z Village Ambassador Festival

Villages Minister Yandri Susanto has called on young people in rural areas to become entrepreneurs as part of the government's drive to build the economy from the grassroots. Speaking at the launch of the Gen Z Village Ambassador Festival in Serang, he highlighted programmes including export-oriented village development and overseas training opportunities in Japan. The initiative forms part of the ministry's 12 Actions to Build Villages, Build Indonesia, which supports the national goal of economic equalisation and poverty eradication.

BRI warns against being tempted by high-yield investments

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk has urged the public to be more cautious when considering investment offers, particularly those promising unusually high returns. The bank stressed the importance of understanding product characteristics, risks, and the legitimacy of the offering party before placing funds. BRI also reminded people to verify legal status through official channels and to report any suspected fraud or misuse of the bank's identity.

LPS strengthens financial literacy in Islamic boarding school communities

Indonesia Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) is expanding financial literacy programmes within Islamic boarding schools (pesantren), targeting students, caretakers and religious leaders. The initiative aims to build understanding of safe and responsible banking, including deposit guarantee schemes. LPS views pesantren as strategic partners in promoting financial inclusion and public trust in the banking system.

Sumedang Deputy Regent Denies Assaulting and Harassing His Personal Secretary: Slander!

Sumedang Deputy Regent Fajar Aldila has denied allegations of assault and sexual harassment against his personal secretary, calling them slander. He stated he is investigating the source of the rumours and considering legal action, while urging the public not to be swayed by unverified narratives.

Investment Minister Says Sports Industry Drives National Economy

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani has highlighted the sports industry's potential to boost Indonesia's economic growth, citing a global market value of USD 521 billion. A memorandum of understanding with the Youth and Sports Ministry aims to streamline licensing and attract investment into the sector. The partnership is expected to benefit not only sports but also tourism and other related industries.

Nepal asks Meta and TikTok to remove AI content related to flash floods

Nepal has urged Meta and TikTok to remove misleading AI-generated images, fake donation QR codes, and other harmful content circulating after flash floods and landslides struck the country. Government officials have held talks with platform representatives to demand faster takedown of content that could mislead the public or hamper relief efforts. The disaster also affected China's Tibet region, where hundreds of people have been evacuated.

Indonesia to Host 3rd ISC, Phnom Penh Declaration Backs DPD

Indonesia, through the Regional Representative Council (DPD RI), has been unanimously selected to host the 3rd Inter-Parliamentary Speakers' Conference (ISC). The decision was announced at the 2nd ISC in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and is seen as a significant achievement for Indonesian parliamentary diplomacy. DPD RI Chairman Sultan Baktiar Najamudin stated that the forum will allow Indonesia to bring regional perspectives and diversity into global parliamentary dialogue.

Deputy Minister asks bioenergy to be developed for public benefit

Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Fauzan has called for bioenergy development to be framed within national interests and managed for public benefit. He highlighted Indonesia's large untapped resource potential, including waste, and stressed the need for business actors with integrity. Universities are seen as strategic in preparing human resources and connecting student talent to the energy sector's needs.

Temanggung BLK holds hydroponic training to improve residents' skills

The Temanggung Regency Job Training Centre (BLK) has launched its first hydroponic farming training programme in collaboration with the Agriculture Office. The initiative aims to boost human resource capacity and support the development of greenhouses in the region. Funded partly by tobacco excise revenue sharing funds, the programme is expected to open business opportunities and strengthen economic self-reliance among residents.

East Java named best province for waste management and green environment

East Java has been recognised as the best province in waste management and environmental cleanliness at the 2026 National Local Government Achievement Awards. Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa attributed the success to collective efforts across government, communities and schools, with the province receiving Rp2 billion in central government support. East Java's waste management rate stands at 52.7 percent, the highest nationally and well above the 24.95 percent national average.

Ministry of Human Rights mediates residents' complaints over post-mining impacts in Kutai Kartanegara

The East Kalimantan Regional Office of the Ministry of Human Rights has facilitated mediation between residents of Bakungan Village and coal mining company PT Multi Harapan Utama over alleged environmental damage following mining activities. Residents reported land changes, sedimentation in waterways, disruption to agricultural areas, and suspected environmental degradation. The ministry will involve local government and technical agencies in further mediation to seek a transparent and fair resolution.

Fire Engulfs Project Logistics Barracks Near PIK Hospital, Thick Smoke Billows

A fire broke out at a project logistics barracks on Jalan Pantai Indah Utara 3, near PIK Hospital in North Jakarta, on Saturday afternoon. The Jakarta Fire and Rescue Service deployed seven fire engines and 42 personnel to the scene. Firefighting efforts were still underway as of 2.27 pm local time.

Cambodia Shuts Down More Than 700 Online Scam Centres

Cambodian authorities have closed over 700 online scam centres and detained nearly 30,000 suspects, including senior government officials, in a year-long crackdown. The country has deported more than 58,000 foreign nationals linked to scam operations. The move comes amid mounting pressure from the United States and China to tackle transnational fraud syndicates operating from Cambodian territory.

Bill Gates' Daughter Faces 20 Years in Prison over Cookie Stuffing

Phoebe Gates, the youngest daughter of Microsoft founder Bill Gates, is facing up to 20 years in prison over allegations that her e-commerce startup Phia engaged in cookie stuffing to fraudulently earn affiliate commissions. Leaked internal messages reportedly show that Gates and her co-founder were aware of the practice for months before it was exposed. The case carries added irony as one of Phia's investors is eBay, a company that previously sued a similar fraudster.

Video: Competing with Vietnam and Others, Indonesia's Homework to Advance Premium Beauty Business

Indonesia's large market potential and shifting consumer lifestyles are attracting premium beauty and lifestyle players such as Luxasia. The company's managing director, Alwyn Chong, is optimistic about growth prospects, driven by rising purchasing volumes and a move towards higher-end products. E-commerce and social media are also helping to expand the market.

BRI Life Focuses on Digitalisation and Efficiency Amid Insurance Industry Dynamics

BRI Life is strengthening digitalisation and operational efficiency to maintain business performance amid a dynamic life insurance industry. The strategy includes product development, governance strengthening, and risk management. The company recently received awards for excellent financial performance and consistent excellence over 15 consecutive years.

East Java PWNU proposes Aswaja Center NU become an official institution

The East Java regional board of Nahdlatul Ulama has proposed that Aswaja Center NU be formally established as one of the organisation's institutions during the 35th NU Congress in Jombang. The proposal was put forward during a national gathering of Aswaja Center NU, where leaders emphasised that Aswaja values are the spirit of NU. A new reference book on Aswaja NU was also launched at the event.

Bali Earthquake Donations for NTT Reach Rp 170 Million, Extended Until 4 September

The Provincial Government of Bali has extended its donation drive for victims of the Nusa Tenggara Timur earthquake until 4 September 2026, after collecting Rp 170 million as of 28 August. The funds will be transferred to the NTT provincial government to be allocated according to needs at its emergency posts. Officials described the initiative as a demonstration of empathy and humanitarian concern from the Balinese public.

India steps up glacier monitoring after Nepal disaster

India is increasing monitoring of Himalayan glaciers and glacial lakes in Uttarakhand following a deadly glacial collapse on the Tibet-Nepal border that killed hundreds. Authorities have instructed disaster management teams to remain vigilant for similar risks in the ecologically sensitive region, which contains over 1,200 glacial lakes. Scientists warn that climate change is accelerating glacier melt, increasing the frequency and severity of such disasters across the Himalayas.

Death Toll from Nepal Flash Floods Reaches 623

The death toll from flash floods and landslides in Nepal has risen to 623, with hundreds more still missing, including many foreign nationals. Rescue and recovery operations continue across the worst-affected districts, with thousands of personnel deployed. The disaster, triggered by a glacial lake outburst near the China-Nepal border, has also caused significant casualties and missing persons in Tibet.

Spirit of Krakatoa brings South Lampung Tapis first place at AOE 2026

South Lampung Regency won first place in the Wastra Nusantara Fashion Show at the Apkasi Otonomi Expo 2026 with a tapis cloth design themed 'Spirit of Krakatoa'. The regency government views the achievement as a platform to promote tapis as a cultural heritage and creative economy product. Officials hope the recognition will encourage artisans to innovate and expand the market for South Lampung tapis internationally.

Indonesian Embassy in Tokyo holds consultation forum to improve services for citizens

The Indonesian Embassy in Tokyo held a Public Consultation Forum to improve public services and protection for Indonesian citizens in Japan, whose numbers have surged to 260,000. The forum addressed communication, community cooperation, reporting mechanisms, and additional insurance for workers. Embassy officials encouraged citizens to report workplace violations to local police without fear.

UN Secretary-General urges ratification of nuclear test ban, calls for CTBT entry into force

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called on nuclear-armed states to maintain their current testing moratoriums and to bring the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty into force. His appeal follows Russia's announcement of an intercontinental ballistic missile test launch capable of carrying a nuclear warhead. The CTBT, adopted in 1996, remains unratified by nine key states, preventing the treaty from taking full legal effect.

Bandung District Court Rules on Sumedang Historical and Cultural Foundation Management

The Bandung District Court has ruled in favour of the Yayasan Pangeran Sumedang leadership under Brigadier General (Ret.) Mustikaningrat, granting legal certainty over the foundation's management. The court partially upheld a lawsuit against parties involved in issuing a 2024 deed of amendment, invalidating the rival board led by Inspector General (Ret.) Adang Rochjana. The foundation now has authority to seek revocation of the opposing board's registration at the Ministry of Law and Human Rights.

Research Reveals Differences Between the Faces of the Rich and the Poor

A University of Toronto study has found that people can identify a person's social class from their facial features with 68% accuracy. The research suggests wealthier individuals tend to have happier, less anxious expressions, while poorer individuals often appear more stressed. Researchers warn that such face-based perceptions could contribute to the cycle of poverty.

AI literacy essential to navigate digital-era work dynamics: Ministry

Indonesia's government is urging urgent AI literacy and upskilling for workers and civil servants as generative AI reshapes employment and fiscal structures. A deputy minister cited ILO data showing nearly one in four ASEAN workers are exposed to AI, and stressed that policy must be proactive rather than reactive. The focus is on building government capacity, cross-sector coordination, and data-based decision-making to manage AI's impact on the workforce and economy.

Infrastructure Investment for Oil Pipelines in Gulf States Surges After Hormuz Blockade

Gulf states are redirecting billions of dollars into ports, pipelines and railways as the Strait of Hormuz remains largely blocked, forcing a fundamental rethink of energy export routes. Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar are accelerating projects to bypass the chokepoint, with Abu Dhabi's sovereign wealth fund moving to take full control of AD Ports. The economic impact has been severe, with Qatar and Kuwait expected to contract by more than 8% this year.