Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 31 August 2026

Showing 901-950 of 1,481 articles

Pigai launches Human Rights Indonesia 2036 study to map economic, social and cultural rights issues

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has launched the Human Rights Indonesia 2036 study, a forward-looking assessment of economic, social and cultural rights challenges over the next decade. The study, developed with civil society organisations, aims to anticipate risks from industrial development, technology and artificial intelligence, including job losses and environmental impacts. The ministry intends for the document to serve as a living reference for policy-making and to shift its approach from reactive to preventive.

Algerian foreign national found soaking in Sunter Lake is recorded as an investor

An Algerian foreign national who spent hours soaking in Sunter Lake, North Jakarta, has been identified as an investor holding a limited stay permit (KITAS). Immigration officials said the man, identified only as BZ, was not carrying his passport or other supporting documents when examined. Authorities believe the act was a deliberate attempt to attract attention in order to be repatriated to his home country.

Search for Missing Foreign National at Tembles Beach Jembrana Hampered by Large Waves

Search and rescue teams in Jembrana, Bali, have yet to locate a Polish national who went missing while swimming at Tembles Beach on Sunday evening. Efforts are being hindered by high tide and large waves that make it unsafe to deploy rubber boats. Authorities are waiting for the tide to recede before resuming water-based search operations.

Govt probes alleged criminal acts in Mount Bromo national park fires

Indonesian authorities are conducting a criminal investigation into the Mount Bromo national park fires, with experts collecting soil and vegetation samples to determine the cause and impact. The Ministry of Environment and Forestry says the fires have disrupted ecological functions, local livelihoods, and tourism, and that those proven responsible will be held accountable. The investigation follows the burning of approximately 1,120 hectares across four East Java districts in August 2026.

Central Java DPRD Speaker Reminds Jogo Kali Volunteers to Care for Planted Trees

Sumanto, Speaker of the Central Java Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD), has urged volunteers of the Jogo Kali Merawat Bumi programme to actively maintain trees after planting ceremonies rather than abandoning them. The environmental initiative, which he initiated, has planted 1,500 trees across 12 sub-districts in Karanganyar Regency since April 2026. Volunteers report conducting regular inspections and replanting where necessary.

First in History: Indonesian Citizen Appointed Minister in the Netherlands

Ario Soejono, born in Tulungagung, became the first Indonesian to serve in a Dutch cabinet when Prime Minister Pieter Sjoerd Gerbrandy appointed him minister without portfolio in June 1942. Despite holding the post, Soejono used his position to advocate for full Indonesian independence, a stance that was ignored by the Dutch government. He died in exile in London in January 1943.

Customs and Bangka Belitung Police Foil Circulation of 16.4 kg of Methamphetamine and 4,980 Ecstasy Pills

The Customs Regional Office for Eastern Sumatra and the Pangkalpinang Customs Office, in coordination with the Bangka Belitung Islands Police, have intercepted a major drug shipment. The operation resulted in the seizure of 16.465 kilograms of methamphetamine and 4,980 ecstasy pills, with an estimated 87,305 lives saved from potential drug abuse. A suspect with the initials AS was detained in Pangkalpinang, and investigations are ongoing to uncover the wider network.

Police Urged to Probe Mass Organization's Role in Jakarta Unrest

Indonesia's National Human Rights Commission has called on Jakarta police to deepen their investigation into the alleged involvement of a mass organisation in post-protest unrest that left one resident dead and another seriously injured. The commission is examining the death of Bambang Setiawan and the assault of 18-year-old Faturrohman, while social media users have accused the GRIB Jaya group led by Hercules of involvement, a claim the organisation denies. Police say they are still verifying the facts and have warned the public against disinformation circulating online.

Industry Ministry maintains textile supply-demand balance to protect domestic industry

Indonesia's Ministry of Industry has defended its textile import control policy, stating it aims to balance domestic supply and demand rather than hinder business activity. The ministry argues that unrestricted imports could flood the market and undermine local manufacturers. It also urged consumers to prioritise domestically produced goods, including premium items, to support the national economy.

Sumedang Deputy Regent Harassment Allegations: DPRD Holds Special Meeting

The Sumedang Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) has convened a special meeting to address allegations of sexual harassment involving the deputy regent's personal secretary. The council expressed support for West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi's decision to form an investigation team. DPRD leaders urged the public to remain calm and for the local government to maintain focus on public services.

Orangutan Found Unconscious Amid Thick Haze from Kalimantan Forest Fires

An adult male orangutan was discovered unconscious in an oil palm plantation in West Kalimantan after being exposed to thick haze from forest and land fires. The animal, named Sampurna, was evacuated by a joint team from the West Kalimantan Natural Resources Conservation Agency and YIARI. It is the seventh orangutan rescued in the region due to fire-related threats during August.

20 UBSI Alumni to Share Stories at SEMOT 2026, New Students to Gain Real-World Insights

Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) will hold its Seminar Motivasi (SEMOT) 2026 on 20 September, featuring 20 alumni sharing career experiences with new students. The event aims to provide freshmen with practical perspectives on career building beyond classroom learning. Organisers hope the alumni talks will inspire students to take initiative and prepare for life after graduation.

South Sumatra Police Engage Police Academy Students to Educate 2,415 Residents on Forest Fire Prevention

The South Sumatra Regional Police (Polda Sumsel) has expanded its forest and land fire prevention efforts by directly educating 2,415 residents across nine regencies and cities. The initiative involved students from police education institutions, including STIK, Sespima, and Setukpa, who were deployed to communities to raise awareness about the dangers of slash-and-burn land clearing. The programme combined public outreach with the distribution of masks, pamphlets, and social assistance.

Account Owner 'Pemukiman Setan' Arrested for Posting Molotov Cocktail Instructions

Polda Metro Jaya has arrested AFA, the owner of the Instagram account @pemukiman._.setan, for allegedly disseminating instructions on making Molotov cocktails and provocative calls for violence against law enforcement. The arrest took place in Cibodas, Tangerang City, on Sunday evening. Police clarified that the arrest was not related to posts about attacks on GRIB, but specifically concerned the distribution of bomb-making instructions and incendiary device guidance.

China Hasn't Landed, Taiwan Could Be Paralysed First

Taiwan's greatest vulnerability in a war with China may not be a PLA beach landing but the collapse of its internal systems—power, communications, fuel and command networks. The island's 2026 Han Kuang exercises simulated civilian internet disruptions for the first time, reflecting growing concern that societal paralysis could precede military defeat. Analysts note Taiwan's lack of land borders makes it far more susceptible to blockade than Ukraine, challenging the adequacy of its 'porcupine strategy'.

Optimising Investment Fiscal Facilities to Drive Transparency in Ministry of Investment Governance

The Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) has submitted its compliance audit report regarding investment fiscal facilities to the Ministry of Investment/BKPM. The report emphasises the need to improve verification processes and data exchange mechanisms to ensure legal certainty for investors.

IFA Archipelago Debut di Kalimantan Selatan, Angkat Kekayaan Wastra Borneo

Indonesia Fashion Aesthetics (IFA) has launched IFA Archipelago, a signature event series aimed at expanding the fashion and beauty-aesthetics ecosystem beyond Jakarta, with its first edition held in Banjarbaru, South Kalimantan. The event showcased local wastra such as Sasirangan through modest fashion collections and included workshops and awards, with support from the provincial government and Bank Syariah Indonesia. The initiative seeks to boost regional creative industries and highlight the economic potential of local culture ahead of Ramadan and Idulfitri.

Netanyahu's Son, Living in Luxury in the US, Evacuated to Israel in Emergency

Yair Netanyahu, the eldest son of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has been urgently flown back to Israel from the United States following an alleged assassination threat from Iran. Israel's domestic intelligence agency Shin Bet confirmed the evacuation after a comprehensive risk assessment. The move has reignited public anger in Israel over the state-funded security provided to Yair, who has faced criticism for remaining abroad in comfort while reservists were called to war.

Indonesia ready to strengthen oil palm smallholders globally through WCOPS

Indonesia, as leader of the World Coalition of Oil Palm Smallholders (WCOPS), has pledged to strengthen oil palm smallholders in producing countries worldwide. Gulat ME Manurung, the newly appointed WCOPS President, emphasised the need for mutually supportive relationships between smallholders and corporations to counter negative campaigns against palm oil. Representatives from seven producing nations expressed hope that Indonesia's leadership will advance price equality and inclusivity in the global palm oil industry.

Digital transformation and AI seen as priorities for Indonesian companies

Rimini Street says digital transformation and AI adoption will become top priorities for Indonesian companies over the next three to five years to improve efficiency, resilience and competitiveness. The company highlights data management, business process understanding, workforce readiness and governance as key foundations. It also advises firms to optimise existing systems before making further technology investments.

ESDM strengthens 3 kg LPG recipient database for targeted subsidies

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) is strengthening its database of 3 kg LPG recipients to improve distribution governance and ensure subsidised gas reaches eligible households. The move comes as projected consumption for 2026 is expected to exceed the state budget quota by 8.46 percent. The ministry argues that fixing governance, rather than simply increasing quotas, is the long-term solution to the subsidy problem.

Former Venezuelan President Posts First Photo Since US Arrest

Nicolas Maduro has shared his first photograph since being detained and taken to the United States in January, projecting defiance ahead of his federal trial. The former Venezuelan leader and his wife, Cilia Flores, are being held without bail in Brooklyn on serious drug trafficking and narco-terrorism charges, with their trial scheduled to begin in June 2027.

Katalis Besar ADRO Sudah di Depan Mata - Investor Daily

PT Alamtri Resources Indonesia Tbk (ADRO) reported a 77% year-on-year increase in first-half 2026 net profit to US$309 million, driven by strong performance in its mining services segment. The company's aluminium segment has yet to generate revenue and still recorded a net loss, but sales commencing in the third quarter are expected to serve as a major catalyst. Analysts note that the first-half results are in line with consensus estimates, with additional support from dividend income and joint venture profits.

Bridge Collapses After Inauguration, Pangandaran Military Commander Apologises

A newly inaugurated suspension bridge in Pangandaran, West Java, collapsed when a sling cable snapped under excessive load during the opening ceremony. The local military district commander has publicly apologised, admitting organisers failed to enforce the bridge's capacity limits amid the celebratory atmosphere. The bridge's main structure reportedly remains intact.

Korem 163/Wira Satya initiates simultaneous aid delivery to NTT

Korem 163/Wira Satya has coordinated a province-wide humanitarian effort in Bali to send aid to earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara. The initiative consolidates contributions from all eight regencies and cities in Bali into a convoy of nine trucks bound for Labuan Bajo. Bali Governor Wayan Koster expressed appreciation for the military command's role in uniting the province's response to the disaster.

Goods Piling Up in Warehouses: A Danger Alarm from Indonesian Manufacturing?

Indonesia's Industrial Confidence Index (IKI) slowed to 52.30 in August 2026, remaining in expansionary territory but down from July and the same month last year. Manufacturers are holding back product releases to both domestic and export markets, causing inventories to pile up in warehouses. Rising overseas logistics costs and CPO price dynamics are among the factors weighing on the sector.

Ibam Now Ordered to Pay Rp 5 Billion, Previously Not Burdened with Restitution

The DKI Jakarta High Court has increased the prison sentence of Ibrahim Arief, known as Ibam, from four to five years in the corruption case involving the procurement of Chromebook laptops and Chrome Device Management. The appellate judges also imposed a restitution payment of Rp 5 billion, which was not included in the original verdict. If the restitution is not paid, Ibam faces an additional four years in prison.

Prabowo closes NU Congress, congratulates new leadership

President Prabowo Subianto officially closed the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress in Jombang, East Java, and congratulated the newly elected leadership of Indonesia's largest Islamic organisation. He praised NU for conducting the congress peacefully and harmoniously despite its vast membership. Prabowo also received an NU membership card, which he described as a great honour.

DKI to apply Rp8 fare before Kelapa Gading-Manggarai LRT inauguration

The Jakarta provincial government will charge a special Rp8 fare for the Kelapa Gading-Manggarai LRT route before its official inauguration. Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo said the fare will be set through a gubernatorial regulation, after which the flat Rp5,000 fare will apply until October 2026. The inauguration has been postponed pending coordination with the central government and completion of remaining facilities.

Fourth Day, Fire at Illegal Waringinkurung Landfill Still Not Extinguished

A fire at an illegal landfill in Waringinkurung, Serang Regency, Banten, has entered its fourth day, with police estimating it may take up to two more days to fully extinguish. Heavy equipment has been deployed to break up waste piles and expose underground hotspots, while no evacuations or health complaints have been reported among nearby residents.

Prabowo: Political Coalition Necessary to Lead Large Nation

President Prabowo Subianto has defended the need for a broad political coalition to govern Indonesia, citing the country's vast population and territory. Speaking at the Nahdlatul Ulama Congress, he argued that a coalition of seven out of eight parliamentary parties provides necessary stability, contrasting Indonesia's situation with frequent leadership changes in Japan and the United Kingdom.

World's Chip Backbone Paralysed: Offices Raided, Boss Arrested

Taiwanese PCB giant Unimicron Technology Corp., a key supplier to Nvidia, is under investigation by Taoyuan prosecutors for allegedly relabelling Chinese-made products as 'Made in Taiwan'. The case has raised concerns about supply chain transparency in the global semiconductor industry. Fourteen executives and employees were detained and later released on bail ranging from NT$300,000 to NT$15 million.

Consistently Driving the People's Economy, BRI Posts Profit of Rp31.2 Trillion

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) reported a net profit of Rp31.2 trillion for the first half of 2026, up 17.5% year-on-year, driven by its continued focus on the micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) segment. The bank's transformation programme, BRIVolution Reignite, has begun to deliver results, with improved funding costs, asset quality and profitability. BRI remains committed to MSMEs as its core business, with 75.1% of its loan portfolio directed to the segment.

GRIB Jaya Speaks Out on Headquarters Fire in Kedoya, West Jakarta

The central executive board of mass organisation GRIB Jaya has attributed a fire at its West Jakarta headquarters to an electrical short circuit caused by a mobile phone charger placed on top of a refrigerator. No casualties were reported, and firefighters brought the blaze under control within approximately 40 minutes. The organisation confirmed the situation is now fully secure and the site has been given a green status.

State Secretariat Ministry proposes Rp6.6 trillion budget increase for 2027

The Ministry of State Secretariat has proposed an additional Rp6.6 trillion in funding for the 2027 fiscal year to support its operations and functions. Deputy Minister Bambang Eko Suhariyanto presented the request during a working meeting with House Commission XIII, citing a shortfall of approximately Rp6.62 trillion. The ministry hopes the proposal will be approved and incorporated into the 2027 budget allocation ceiling.

Ibam's Sentence Increased to 5 Years in Prison in Chromebook Case

The DKI Jakarta High Court has increased the prison sentence of Ibrahim Arief, also known as Ibam, from four to five years in the corruption case involving the procurement of Chromebook laptops and Chrome Device Management. The court also imposed a Rp 5 billion replacement payment, with a four-year prison term if he fails to pay. The case has also implicated former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim, who received a ten-year sentence.

President Prabowo: Lift Indonesian People Out of Poverty

President Prabowo Subianto has pledged to make poverty alleviation the central focus of his government's national transformation strategy. Speaking at the closing of the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Congress in Jombang, he said he had directly absorbed the messages delivered by newly elected PBNU Rais Aam KH Miftachul Akhyar. The congress concluded with the election of KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz as PBNU chairman and KH Miftachul Akhyar as Rais Aam for the 2026-2031 period.

Adaptive Governance Becomes Foundation for Sustainable Growth in Reinsurance Industry

PT Reasuransi Indonesia Utama (Indonesia Re) is strengthening its corporate governance framework as a strategic foundation for sustainable growth amid increasingly complex global risks. The state-owned reinsurer achieved a 'Very Good' GCG score of 4.84 out of 5 from OJK in 2025 and a Risk Maturity Index of 3.10, reflecting consistent risk management practices. The company is also adapting its governance mechanisms following its transition into the Danantara ecosystem.

Trump Calls Venezuelan Oil a 'Gift' to the American People

US President Donald Trump has announced that oil obtained through a recent agreement with Venezuela will be used to replenish America's strategic petroleum reserves, describing the supply as a 'gift' to the American people. The deal, which grants the US control over a fifth of Venezuela's oil reserves, aims to revive the country's struggling oil industry but will require significant investment before production can increase. The Strategic Petroleum Reserve currently holds around 290 million barrels, near its lowest level in 44 years.

BRI: Digital banking push lifts low-cost funds ratio to 67.6 percent

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia reported its CASA ratio rose to 67.6 percent by the end of the second quarter of 2026, up from 65.5 percent a year earlier, as digital banking and transaction banking strengthened. Total third-party funds reached Rp1,580.7 trillion, with active BRImo users growing 15.6 percent year-on-year to 22.4 million. Management said the bank's liquidity and capital position remain strong, with an LDR of 90.8 percent and a CAR of 21.5 percent.

Prabowo Compares Indonesia With Timor-Leste to Defend 'Bloated' Cabinet

President Prabowo Subianto has defended the size of his cabinet against criticism that it is bloated and inefficient, arguing that government structure should be assessed relative to a country's population and territory. He cited Timor-Leste, which has a 28-member cabinet despite a population of only 1.1 million, to justify Indonesia's larger administration for its nearly 300 million people. Prabowo also pointed to his broad parliamentary support, with seven of eight parties backing his coalition government.

Foreign Investors Net Buy in Session 1, BBRI Shares Scooped Up

Foreign investors recorded a net buy of Rp183.56 billion on the Indonesia Stock Exchange during the first trading session on Monday, driven largely by purchases of Bank Rakyat Indonesia shares. BBRI led the net foreign buy list with Rp163.99 billion after reporting a 17.5% year-on-year rise in first-half net profit. The inflows occurred amid volatile trading in the Jakarta Composite Index ahead of MSCI index changes effective 1 September 2026.

Prabowo Reveals Finance Minister Purbaya Rejected IMF Loan Offer

President Prabowo Subianto has disclosed that Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa turned down a loan offer from the International Monetary Fund during a visit to Washington DC. The government is seeking to reduce its reliance on debt and prioritise investment as a source of development financing. The Finance Ministry explained that Indonesia's economy remains strong, growing above 5 percent, and does not require financing intended for high-risk conditions.

From Pupil to Student: ORMIK UBSI 2026 Opens a New Journey for the Campus Generation

Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) will hold its new student orientation, ORMIK, from 16 to 19 September 2026 across all its campuses in Indonesia. The programme, themed 'Bright, Spirit, Initiative', aims to help new students adapt to academic life and understand campus rules and activities. It will be followed by a motivational seminar, SEMOT, on 20 September 2026.

Indonesia to Avoid Foreign Debt, IMF Lifeline

President Prabowo Subianto has declared Indonesia's intention to avoid foreign debt and reject IMF lifeline offers, while remaining open to low-interest loans and foreign investment. The government claims sufficient standby funds and aims for financial self-reliance, despite external debt reaching $453.4 billion and the rupiah weakening sharply against the dollar.

Viral Video Shows TNI Members Attacked by Suku Anak Dalam in Jambi, Five Suspects Surrender

Five members of the Suku Anak Dalam community in Sarolangun, Jambi, have surrendered to police after a viral video showed them attacking Indonesian Army personnel. The incident occurred after soldiers confronted the group for allegedly stealing palm oil fruit from a plantation. Authorities have confirmed the situation is now under control and mediation has taken place.

Mimika Government Strongly Condemns Murder of Vocational School Students

The Mimika Regency Government in Central Papua has strongly condemned the brutal murder of two vocational school students in Kuala Kencana District. Regent Johannes Rettob expressed deep sorrow over the killing of the minors and urged residents to remain calm while police investigate. Authorities are currently working to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.

Sutrimo's Family Visits Polda Metro to Demand Exhumation Results

The family of the late Sutrimo has formally requested a progress report on the police investigation into his death, including the results of an exhumation conducted earlier in August. Their lawyer also raised concerns about the whereabouts of Sutrimo's mobile phone, which remains unaccounted for. Police have stated they are still awaiting forensic laboratory results, including tissue, DNA, and substance analysis.

PSHK FH UII Welcomes Abolition of Articles on Insulting Government and State Institutions

The Centre for Constitutional Studies at the Islamic University of Indonesia has welcomed a Constitutional Court ruling that struck down articles criminalising insults against the government and state institutions. The court found the provisions in the new Criminal Code unconstitutional, citing their potential to stifle legitimate criticism. PSHK FH UII urged the government to issue operational regulations and review other laws with similarly vague norms.

Appearance of Rp 401 Billion in Cash Seized from Nickel Governance Corruption Case at PT CNI

The Attorney General's Office has displayed Rp 401 billion in cash seized as evidence in an alleged corruption case involving nickel commodity governance at PT CNI from 2017 to 2020. The money was exhibited at the Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes building in South Jakarta, guarded by armed military personnel. A formal case announcement is expected later today.