Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 31 August 2026

Showing 1,001-1,050 of 1,481 articles

Lawsuit to Rename 'South China Sea' to 'North Natuna Sea' Rejected by Constitutional Court

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has dismissed a judicial review petition seeking to change the name 'South China Sea' to 'North Natuna Sea' in the law establishing Riau Islands Province. The court ruled that the petitioners, private citizens, lacked legal standing because only regional heads together with local councils may challenge boundary provisions. The decision leaves the 2002 law unchanged despite the government's official adoption of the 'North Natuna Sea' nomenclature since July 2017.

Video: A First! Indonesian Doctors Successfully Perform Open Fetal Surgery

A team of Indonesian doctors at Harapan Kita Mother and Child Hospital has successfully performed the country's first open fetal surgery to treat myelomeningocele, a congenital spinal defect. The procedure, carried out with support from Australia's Mater Mothers' Hospital, aims to prevent paralysis and other complications in affected babies. Deputy Health Minister Dante Saksono highlighted the significance of the surgery, which must be performed before 27 weeks of gestation.

With Excellent Accreditation, UNM's Informatics Doctorate Gets Serious About Technology Research

Universitas Nusa Mandiri's Doctoral Programme in Informatics has received Excellent accreditation from LAM INFOKOM, valid from July 2026 to July 2029. The university says the recognition strengthens its commitment to developing education, research and technological innovation at the highest academic level. UNM positions the programme as a space for academics, professionals and researchers to produce new contributions in fields such as artificial intelligence, cyber security and data science.

Prabowo boasts of closing 290 SOEs: We saved Rp50 trillion

President Prabowo Subianto has announced that his administration has shut down 290 loss-making state-owned enterprises (SOEs), generating savings of Rp50 trillion. Speaking at the closing of the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Congress in Jombang, East Java, he pledged to close at least 700 more SOEs by 31 December 2026. The President estimates the consolidation could yield annual savings approaching Rp300 trillion from reduced overheads and executive salaries.

Poltracking Releases 5 Recommendations for Government to Align with Public Voice

Poltracking Indonesia has issued five recommendations aimed at aligning government policy with public sentiment, covering the economy, priority programmes, cabinet reshuffle, law, and political stability. The survey, conducted in August 2026, indicates that low public satisfaction could improve if the government adopts the right strategic measures. Executive Director Hanta Yuda emphasised the need for tangible economic interventions, including job stimulus packages and targeted direct cash assistance.

INALUM says rating upgrade proves strengthening business fundamentals

PT Indonesia Asahan Aluminium (INALUM) has received a corporate rating upgrade to idAA/Stable from Pefindo, which the company says reflects stronger business fundamentals and financial resilience amid global uncertainty. The upgrade is expected to bolster INALUM's credibility with stakeholders and financial institutions, supporting its access to funding for expansion. The state-owned aluminium producer is advancing major projects including the Smelter Grade Alumina Refinery and Smelter Aluminium II as part of Indonesia's mineral downstreaming agenda.

Suspension Bridge in Pangandaran Collapses During Inauguration by Regent, Suspected Overload

A suspension bridge in Pangandaran, West Java, collapsed moments after being inaugurated by Regent Citra Pitriyami on Sunday afternoon. The Pongpet bridge, which spans the Cijulang River and connects three villages, gave way as the official party was crossing it, though no fatalities were reported. Police confirmed all visitors were safely evacuated and the cause is suspected to be overloading.

Government to Form Cross-Agency Team to Evaluate Decile Data Controversy

The Indonesian government is planning to establish a cross-agency team to evaluate the controversial decile data used to determine recipients of social assistance programmes. The move follows criticism from lawmakers over the accuracy of the Proxy Means Test methodology employed by Statistics Indonesia (BPS). The government has also committed to sending the presidential letter and problem inventory list for the One Data Indonesia Bill to the House of Representatives before the 19 September deadline.

Iran Vows Retaliation After US Strikes Larak Island

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has confirmed that a US military strike on Larak Island in southern Iran caused casualties among fighters and civilians, and has vowed harsh retaliation. Washington claims the operation was a limited, precise action against IRGC forces in response to mine-laying threats in the Strait of Hormuz. The incident has escalated into reported Iranian missile strikes on US warships and bases across West Asia, heightening tensions in the vital oil transit route.

Shopee and Creative Economy Ministry train 120 Sumatrans in digital skills

Shopee Indonesia and the Ministry of Creative Economy have provided digital training to 120 residents of Aceh Tamiang and Bukittinggi to support post-disaster economic recovery. The Gen Matic programme equips participants with practical skills for earning income through e-commerce, food delivery, and affiliate marketing. Officials say digital platforms can help local businesses reach wider markets and reduce dependence on regional economic cycles.

Indonesian Army Rejects Claim That Pangandaran's Merah Putih Bridge Collapsed

The Indonesian Army has denied that the Merah Putih suspension bridge in Pangandaran collapsed during its inauguration, describing the incident as a structural shift caused by overcapacity. The bridge's left sling cable detached after more than 50 people crossed simultaneously, exceeding the designated limit. The bridge remains closed for repairs and technical evaluation.

Karet Station to cease operations as it integrates with BNI City

Karet Station in Jakarta will stop serving Commuter Line Jabodetabek passengers from Tuesday, 1 September 2026, as integration works with BNI City Station begin. The project is scheduled to run until the end of December 2026. The closure affects boarding and alighting services at the station during the construction period.

Four Lombok Fishermen Rescued by Ferry After Being Adrift in Alas Strait

Four fishermen from East Lombok were rescued by a passing ferry after their boat sank in the Alas Strait, West Nusa Tenggara. Passengers aboard KMP Jemla Fajar heard cries for help and alerted the crew, who evacuated the men from the sea. The incident highlights the dangers faced by small-scale fishers in Indonesian waters.

Prabowo: Indonesia can still manage without IMF loans

President Prabowo Subianto has stated that Indonesia rejected an IMF loan offer because the country can still finance its development independently. He emphasised the government's focus on poverty reduction and prudent borrowing, while Deputy Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara confirmed Indonesia has a substantial fiscal buffer of Rp420 trillion.

BRI Profit Grows 17.5 Percent to Rp31.2 Trillion as of June 2026

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) reported a net profit of Rp31.2 trillion for the second quarter of 2026, marking a 17.5 percent year-on-year increase. The state-owned lender also recorded improvements in asset quality and efficiency, with non-performing loans declining and cost of credit falling. MSMEs continued to dominate BRI's lending portfolio, accounting for 75.1 percent of total credit disbursement.

Boiling Over! Iran Attacks US Base in the United Arab Emirates

Iran's military has claimed responsibility for drone strikes on Al Minhad Air Base in the UAE, which hosts American forces, in retaliation for a US attack on Larak Island. The IRGC also announced strikes on two US air bases in Jordan and missile launches against US vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. The escalation follows a US bombardment of Iranian rocket launchers that Washington said were preparing to mine the strategic waterway.

Iran Also Attacks US Military Facilities in Jordan

Tensions in West Asia have escalated sharply after Iranian forces reportedly launched attacks on US military positions in Jordan, according to Russian media citing US officials. The strikes, which also targeted US bases across the region and ships in the Strait of Hormuz, were largely intercepted by air defence systems. Washington has reportedly retaliated against Iranian missile launchers on Larak Island, with the conflict showing no signs of diplomatic resolution.

Intelligence: Russia Recruits Indonesian Citizens as Mercenaries, Lured with These Promises

Ukraine's foreign intelligence service claims Russia has recruited at least eight Indonesian citizens into its armed forces to fight in the war against Ukraine. The recruits are reportedly promised high pay, non-combat roles, and easier access to Russian citizenship, though many may end up on the front lines. The report suggests the Kremlin is seeking 'cannon fodder' in Indonesia amid declining domestic willingness to enlist.

IDI Proposes Minimum Income of Rp30 Million for General Practitioners and Rp110 Million for Specialists per Month

The Indonesian Medical Association (IDI) has formally proposed minimum income standards for doctors working in government health facilities, ranging from Rp30.8 million for hospital general practitioners to Rp110.9 million for specialists. The proposal, submitted in a letter dated 27 August 2026, is based on a study of fair remuneration calculated per working hour rather than patient volume. IDI argues the standards are necessary to improve healthcare quality, doctor welfare, and retention of medical personnel across Indonesia.

Poltracking Survey Reveals 5 Factors Behind Decline in Prabowo Government's Approval Rating

A Poltracking Indonesia survey shows the Prabowo administration's approval rating fell from 58.4 percent in July 2026 to 55.1 percent in August 2026. The pollster identifies five contributing factors: problems with the free nutritious meals programme, worsening economic conditions, poor ministerial communication, corruption scandals involving presidential aides, and the near absence of a functioning opposition.

DPR Accelerates Oil and Gas Bill, SKK Migas to Be Replaced by Special Business Entity

Indonesia's House of Representatives is fast-tracking a new Oil and Gas Law that would replace upstream regulator SKK Migas with a Special Business Entity (BUK) reporting directly to the President. The reform responds to a 2012 Constitutional Court ruling that struck down key provisions of the 2001 Oil and Gas Law. Lawmakers aim to complete deliberations by October 2026, arguing the change will strengthen state control and improve the investment climate.

Jasa Marga Posts Rp 1.9 Trillion Profit in First Half of 2026

PT Jasa Marga (Persero) Tbk reported a net profit of Rp 1.9 trillion for the first half of 2026, a 2.0 percent increase year-on-year. The state-owned toll road operator saw revenue grow 7.6 percent to Rp 10.3 trillion, driven by higher toll income and transaction volumes. The company continues to expand its network, operating 1,294 km of toll roads, or 42 percent of Indonesia's total operational toll network.

Komjen Fadil Imran Retires, Astamaops Now Held by Roycke Harry Langie

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has rotated and transferred 424 high-ranking and mid-ranking officers, including the position of Chief of Staff for Operations (Astamaops). Roycke Harry Langie, previously North Sulawesi Police Chief, replaces Komjen Mohammad Fadil Imran, who is entering retirement. The police spokesperson stated the reshuffle is part of organisational development and career management.

Bogor Regency Administration Sees Strong Investment Growth in First Half

Bogor Regency recorded Rp13.72 trillion in investment during the first half of 2026, creating 25,502 jobs and ranking third in West Java for investment realisation. Regent Rudy Susmanto emphasised that investment should benefit the community through job creation, with housing and industrial estates leading sectoral contributions. The administration pledged to maintain a conducive investment climate through better services and simpler licensing.

Expert at Asset Forfeiture Bill Hearing: What If Tigers and Elephants Become Assets?

A legal academic has raised concerns about how Indonesia's proposed Asset Forfeiture Bill would handle assets with no market value, such as protected wildlife seized in trafficking cases. Aditya Wiguna Sanjaya of Surabaya State University urged House Commission III to consider valuation methods for such assets. The commission has identified 13 predicate offences for asset forfeiture, ranging from corruption to human trafficking.

Prabowo stresses importance of coalition in governing a large nation

President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised that Indonesia's size and population make coalition government essential, arguing that no single party can manage the country alone. Speaking at the closing of the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Congress in Jombang, he noted his own cabinet comprises seven of the eight parliamentary parties. He contrasted Indonesia's political stability with frequent leadership changes in Japan and the United Kingdom.

Health Minister on WHO Director-General Candidacy: If Assigned by the President, We Will Do It

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has confirmed he is prepared to stand as a candidate for WHO Director-General if formally assigned by President Prabowo Subianto. He said the President has asked him to represent the interests of developing countries, or the global south, in the leadership of the world health body. The election process is expected to take place in two stages, with the executive board shortlisting three candidates in January 2027 and a full membership vote in May 2027.

Indonesia, Philippines boost creative economy cooperation across ASEAN

Indonesia and the Philippines are strengthening bilateral cooperation in the creative economy through talent exchange and joint cultural product development, exemplified by the Batik-Barong initiative that blends Philippine Barong attire with Indonesian batik techniques. The partnership also includes promotional exchanges and pop-up exhibitions to help creative businesses test new markets. At the regional level, Indonesia is supporting the Philippines' 2026 ASEAN chairmanship plan to establish the ASEAN Center of Excellence for Creative Industries in Manila, aiming to foster a more integrated regional creative economy ecosystem.

Visibility in North Kalimantan drops to 500โ€“4,000 metres due to forest fire haze

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has reported that visibility across North Kalimantan has fallen to between 500 and 4,000 metres as persistent smoke from forest and land fires blankets the region. Conditions are worst at night, when visibility can drop to just 500 metres, with hotspots concentrated in Bulungan, Malinau and Nunukan regencies. The agency has warned the public and aviation operators to remain alert, while noting that any rainfall in the coming week is likely to be very light and localised.

Iran Claims Attack on Al Minhad Air Base in UAE with Dozens of Drones

Iran's military has claimed responsibility for a drone attack on Al Minhad Air Base in the United Arab Emirates, targeting areas used by US personnel and helicopters. Tehran stated the strike was retaliation for a prior US operation on Larak Island that killed IRGC members and civilians. No independent confirmation or official response from the UAE or US has yet been issued.

AMRO: Indonesia's Economic Fundamentals Remain Solid

AMRO projects Indonesia's economy to grow 5.3 percent in 2026, supported by domestic consumption and investment, though high global energy prices and volatile capital flows pose risks. Inflation is expected to rise to 3.4 percent, within the official target range, while the fiscal deficit is projected to remain at 2.8 percent of GDP. The report highlights the importance of preserving Bank Indonesia's policy credibility and ensuring coordinated, clearly communicated policies to maintain investor confidence.

Stock Market Responds to Data Centre Infrastructure Growth in Indonesia

The expansion of data centre infrastructure in Indonesia is driving a broad rally across the domestic stock market, benefiting not only data centre developers and telecoms but also tower operators, construction firms, industrial estate developers, and power providers. Analysts project national installed capacity could reach 1.7 gigawatts by the end of 2026 and surge to 11.7 gigawatts by 2030, fuelled by artificial intelligence demand and regional spillover from Singapore and Malaysia. The influx of large-scale capital into digital infrastructure is expected to boost both listed companies' financial performance and Indonesia's overall GDP.

Karet KRL Station Officially Closes Tomorrow: Final Glimpse

Karet Station in Central Jakarta served its last passengers on Monday before closing permanently on 1 September 2026. All commuter line operations are being shifted to the nearby BNI City Station as part of KAI Commuter's service improvement programme. Some passengers have voiced concerns about the longer walking distance to the new station.

Police Reveal Why Depok Neighbourhood Harasser Was Not Detained

Depok police have explained why a man accused of terrorising his neighbours in Pancoran Mas was not detained, citing provisions in the Criminal Procedure Code that do not require detention for the alleged offences. The suspect, identified by the initials FFA, has been charged with property damage and threats of violence under the 2023 Criminal Code. The case file has been submitted to prosecutors, who are currently reviewing it before declaring it complete.

At FKM UI OHS anniversary, deputy minister highlights national occupational safety conditions

Deputy Manpower Minister Afriansyah Noor has drawn attention to Indonesia's persistently high workplace accident figures, citing nearly 319,224 claims in 2025 with 9,834 fatalities. He stressed that occupational safety and health culture still requires significant improvement and broader stakeholder involvement. The government is currently drafting a Labour Protection Bill with the University of Indonesia to modernise outdated regulations.

Government Ensures Monitoring of Hotspots to Prevent Transboundary Haze Pollution

The Ministry of Environment/Environmental Control Agency has intensified integrated efforts to tackle forest and land fires affecting Kalimantan and Sumatra. Operations include dozens of helicopters and aircraft for water-bombing and weather modification, supported by thousands of ground personnel. The government is also working with neighbouring countries to monitor wind patterns and smoke trajectories to prevent transboundary haze pollution.

IHSG Session 1 Nearly Stagnant, Holding at 6,500 Level

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) closed the first trading session on Monday nearly flat at 6,517.24, down just 0.01%. Market activity was robust with Rp10.31 trillion in transaction value, as investors awaited the effective date of MSCI index changes on 1 September 2026.

Minister Amran dismisses 13 officials involved in online gambling

Agriculture Minister Amran has permanently dismissed 13 echelon officials for indiscipline and involvement in online gambling, following verified reports and an early-morning leadership meeting. The minister stressed that civil servants must set an example and that such conduct violates public service ethics, with some officials found to have deposited nearly Rp200 million in online gambling. Replacements have already been prepared, and the dismissals are unrelated to any separate corruption case.

House Commission VII urges MSME integration into national economy in 2027 Government Work Plan

Deputy Chair of House Commission VII Evita Nursanty has called on the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises to integrate the MSME sector into the national economic chain under the 2027 Government Work Plan. She emphasised that budget allocations must be clearly linked to priority programme targets and deliver tangible benefits to the public. Nursanty also urged the Ministry of Tourism to direct its budget towards improving destination quality, services, connectivity, and competitiveness.

Algerian Man Claiming to Perform 'Ritual' Evacuated from Lake Sunter

An Algerian national was evacuated from Lake Sunter in North Jakarta after refusing to leave the water, claiming he was performing a religious ritual. Fire and rescue officers negotiated with the man for several hours before successfully removing him on Sunday evening. He was subsequently handed over to immigration officials.

Forestry Ministry evacuates weak orangutan amid wildfire smoke

The West Kalimantan BKSDA and YIARI rescued an adult male orangutan found in weak condition at an oil palm plantation in Ketapang, with initial assessments linking its state to smoke exposure and dehydration from nearby wildfires. The animal received emergency treatment, including oxygen and intravenous fluids, before being transferred to a rehabilitation centre for further care. The Ministry of Forestry has urged the public to report wildlife sightings near fire-affected areas rather than handling animals themselves.

Prabowo's Reaction After Becoming a 'Lifetime Member' of NU: This Is Extraordinary

President Prabowo Subianto expressed gratitude after receiving a Nahdlatul Ulama membership card (KartaNU) at the closing of the 35th NU Congress in Jombang, East Java. He said he attended to honour a promise made after being informed the card was ready. The card designates him as a 'lifetime member', which he described as extraordinary.

New Middle East Alliance to Accelerate Defence Industry Collaboration

Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan are set to hold their inaugural joint defence pact meeting in Istanbul, aiming to strengthen regional security and boost military industrial cooperation. The meeting follows the signing of the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement in August 2026, which established a collective deterrence principle among the three nations. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has emphasised that the alliance is not directed against any country and remains open to like-minded regional states.

Trail of Fugitive Drug Convict Encek from 2024 Escape to Arrest in Myanmar

Indonesian police have arrested drug convict Bayu Wicaksono, alias Encek, in Myanmar after he escaped from a Lampung prison in April 2024. During his two-year flight, Encek allegedly continued to control a transnational methamphetamine network while moving through Malaysia and Thailand. He was apprehended in Tachileik, near the Myanmar-Thailand-Laos border, and has been returned to Indonesia for further investigation.

Indonesia's Mount Sinabung Spews Ash 3.5km into Sky in Major Eruption

Mount Sinabung in North Sumatra erupted on Monday morning, sending a thick column of ash 3.5 kilometres into the sky and prompting the Geological Agency to maintain Alert Level II status. Residents and tourists have been advised to avoid a three-kilometre radius from the summit, with a sectoral exclusion zone of 4.5 kilometres to the southeast, while those along river basins are warned of potential cold lava floods. The agency has urged the Karo Regency Government to coordinate closely with monitoring posts to track the ongoing volcanic activity.

3 kg LPG Consumption in 2026 Projected to Exceed State Budget Quota, ESDM Responds

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) projects that consumption of subsidised 3 kg LPG will surpass the quota set in the 2026 State Budget. The ministry has pledged to maintain availability for the public while emphasising that governance reform, not just quota increases, is needed to address the recurring subsidy problem. Distribution is projected to reach 8.677 million tonnes by year-end, exceeding the 8 million tonne quota.

Prabowo Receives Lifetime NU Membership Card at 35th Congress

President Prabowo Subianto received a lifetime membership card from Nahdlatul Ulama during the closing ceremony of the organisation's 35th Congress in Jombang, East Java. The card was presented by newly elected Rais Aam Miftachul Akhyar, fulfilling a request Prabowo had made publicly at the congress's opening. The gesture underscores the president's efforts to strengthen ties with Indonesia's largest Islamic organisation.

GRIB Mass Organisation Post Burns Down, Here's the Lawyer's Response

A fire broke out at a post belonging to the mass organisation Gerakan Rakyat Indonesia Bersatu (GRIB) Jaya in West Jakarta in the early hours of Monday. The organisation's legal counsel said he had not yet received official information about the incident. The fire occurred amid controversy over GRIB's alleged involvement in violent handling of demonstrators during the 27 August 2026 protest.

House Commission XIII Criticises Government Communication Agency, Highlights Public Opinion

Deputy Chairman of House Commission XIII Sugiat Santoso has called for the Government Communication Agency (Bakom) to be evaluated objectively, citing survey results showing public satisfaction with President Prabowo Subianto's administration remains below 50%. He argued that strong quantitative economic indicators, such as growth above 5% and investment exceeding Rp 1,000 trillion, are not being reflected in public perception. Sugiat warned that if Bakom's approval rating target is not met by 2027 despite its Rp 1.9 trillion budget, the agency should be considered to have failed.

Mining Exporters Can Place DHE in 15 Foreign Exchange Banks, Here Is the List

The Indonesian government has finalised relaxed rules on export proceeds (DHE) for the mining sector, allowing exporters to place funds in 15 designated foreign exchange banks. The list includes five state-owned banks and ten non-state-owned banks affiliated with five major trading partners. The facility is optional for qualifying mining exporters, who must place at least 30% of proceeds for a minimum of three months.