Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 31 August 2026

Showing 1,201-1,250 of 1,481 articles

Supporting the Three Million Houses Programme, WIKA Beton Showcases Innovation at Danantara Housing Expo 2026

WIKA Beton has introduced its 'WHOME' modular precast innovation at the Danantara Housing Expo 2026 to support Indonesia's Three Million Houses Programme. Developed in collaboration with BRIN, this earthquake-resistant and eco-friendly building technology aims to accelerate large-scale residential construction.

European Union Faces Energy Crisis Consequences from Russia

The European Union is facing a significant energy crisis as gas storage levels have dropped to historically low seasonal levels. This instability is driven by the ongoing shift away from Russian energy and heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

Are Indonesia's Fuel Prices Still Stable in August 2026?

Fuel prices across major retailers in Indonesia, including Pertamina, Shell, and bp, have remained unchanged throughout August 2026. This stability ensures that motorists in Jakarta have not faced any monthly price adjustments for gasoline or diesel products.

BRI Accelerates, Profits Grow Highest Among Major Banks

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk has reported impressive performance for the first half of 2026, with net profits significantly outperforming the average of major KBMI IV banks. The bank also demonstrated improved operational efficiency and a reduction in non-performing loan ratios.

Prabowo Attends Closing of 35th NU Congress in Jombang

President Prabowo Subianto attended the closing ceremony of the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress in Jombang, East Java. The event also marked the election of KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz, known as Gus Kikin, as the new General Chairman of PBNU for the 2026-2031 period.

Newly Elected PBNU Chairman Gus Kikin Prepared to Present NU Membership Card to Prabowo

The newly elected Chairman of the Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) for the 2026-2031 term, KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz, intends to present an NU membership card to President Prabowo Subianto. This follows a request made by the President during the 35th NU Muktamar in Jombang.

Bank Rakyat Indonesia First-Half Profit Climbs 17.5% to $1.96 Billion as Loan Book Expands

State-owned lender Bank Rakyat Indonesia reported a 17.52% year-over-year increase in first-half 2026 net profit to Rp 31.18 trillion, driven by strong loan growth, particularly in the MSME segment, and an improved low-cost deposit mix. The bank's CASA ratio reached 67.61% of total deposits, supported by digital transaction channels, while asset quality remained stable with a gross NPL of 3.15%. Analysts see significant upside potential for BBRI shares, which trade at a deep discount to consensus fair value estimates.

Four Flights Cancelled in Palangka Raya Due to Forest Fire Smoke

Severe haze caused by forest and land fires in Palangka Raya, Central Kalimantan, has led to the cancellation of four Super Air Jet flights. The thick smoke has significantly reduced visibility, posing safety risks for air travel to major Indonesian cities.

Positioning Sharia Economy as a New Growth Engine

An editorial piece arguing that Indonesia must transition from being a mere consumer of halal products to a global producer. It highlights the need to strengthen the halal supply chain from upstream to downstream to drive long-term national productivity.

East Jakarta Administration Reduces Daily Waste Generation by 865 Tonnes

The East Jakarta City Government has successfully reduced daily waste generation by approximately 865 tonnes through enhanced waste management at the source. Mayor Munjirin highlighted that significant progress has been made via household waste sorting, though he urged businesses and restaurants to increase their participation.

BRI Records Rp 31.2 Trillion Profit Throughout H1-2026

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk has reported a significant net profit of Rp 31.2 trillion for the first half of 2026, marking a 17.5% year-on-year increase. The bank's strong performance was driven by resilient MSME business and ongoing transformation initiatives.

Rupiah weakens following hawkish speech from Fed Chair

The Indonesian rupiah depreciated against the US dollar at the start of Monday's trading, driven by hawkish signals from the Federal Reserve regarding inflation control. Additionally, heightened geopolitical tensions in West Asia following US strikes on Iranian missile launchers have contributed to market volatility.

Runjian Co., Ltd. Showcases 'Token-as-a-Service' Solutions and AI Innovations at AIMX Singapore 2026

Runjian Co., Ltd. has unveiled its 'Token-as-a-Service' (TaaS) strategy and various AI-driven technological solutions at the AIMX Singapore 2026 exhibition. The company aims to expand its digital ecosystem across the ASEAN region, leveraging its existing operational presence in Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, and Thailand.

Local Government Unlocks Student Potential through Kepulauan Seribu Student Canvas

The Kepulauan Seribu Regency Administration has launched the 2026 Student Canvas (KPKS) initiative to foster talent and creativity among students across the archipelago. The programme includes leadership training, environmental education, and arts showcases to ensure equal opportunities for students from various islands.

Pramono Offers Investors 37 Strategic Projects Worth Rp 115 Trillion, Here is the List

The Jakarta Provincial Government has unveiled 37 strategic projects valued at Rp 115 trillion during the Jakarta Investment Festival. These projects span various sectors including housing, logistics, and transport, aimed at strengthening Jakarta's position as a global city.

Gus Kikin Elected as PBNU Chairperson for 2026-2031; Golkar Hopes for Inclusive Leadership

KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz, known as Gus Kikin, has been elected as the General Chairperson of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) for the 2026-2031 term. The Golkar Party has expressed its hope that the new leadership will foster national unity and strengthen the economic independence of Islamic boarding schools.

GRIB Jaya Rejects Claims of Fatal Beating During Jakarta Unrest

The Indonesian mass organisation GRIB Jaya has denied allegations that its members were responsible for the fatal beating of a mirror seller during recent unrest in Pejompongan, Jakarta. The organisation's Secretary-General claims that protesters were actually the aggressors and accused certain parties of spreading false narratives via social media.

Constitutional Court Grants Partial Judicial Review of Patent Law to Ensure Affordable Medicine

The Indonesian Constitutional Court has partially granted a judicial review of the Patent Law, ruling against certain provisions that previously restricted patent exceptions. This decision aims to protect the national generic drug industry and ensure public access to affordable medicines by preventing low-quality patent extensions.

From Water Conservation to a Water Culture

An analysis of the urgent need to transition from reactive water management to a proactive 'water culture' in Indonesia. The author argues that water conservation must become a year-round habit to prevent social inequality and environmental crises during dry seasons.

Starlink Internet Vendor Selling Vouchers for Rp10,000 to be Mentored as Official Reseller

The Minister of Communication and Digital, Meutya Hafid, has announced plans to mentor Yogi Gilang Arya Setia, a vendor currently facing legal action for selling Starlink internet vouchers, to become a licensed reseller. The Ministry aims to integrate such local initiatives into the formal telecommunications ecosystem by assisting with licensing and connecting them with authorised Internet Service Providers (ISPs).

US-Iran Tensions Escalate as Eight Missiles Intercepted in Jordanian Skies

The Jordanian military has intercepted eight missiles entering its airspace following a surge in hostilities between the United States and Iran. The incident follows claims by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) that they targeted US airbases in Jordan in retaliation for American strikes on Larak Island.

BRImo Usage Surges, Transactions Skyrocket, and BRI's Low-Cost Funds Strengthen

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk has reported significant growth in its BRImo digital banking application, reaching 22.4 million active users by the first half of 2026. This digital expansion has successfully boosted the bank's low-cost funds (CASA) and contributed to a 17.5% year-on-year increase in net profit.

Central Kalimantan Provincial Government: Efforts to Tackle Tumbang Nusa Fires Continue

The Central Kalimantan Provincial Government is intensifying efforts to combat expanding wildfires in the Tumbang Nusa area of Pulang Pisau Regency. Despite challenges such as low visibility and high winds hindering aerial water bombing, ground teams are being deployed to prevent the fire from reaching critical infrastructure.

Amran Dismisses 13 Ministry of Agriculture Officials Over Online Gambling Involvement

Minister of Agriculture Andi Amran Sulaiman has permanently removed 13 echelon officials following their involvement in online gambling activities. The decision follows an internal investigation into disciplinary breaches that undermined the integrity of the civil service.

Gatekeeper at Pekalongan Railway Crossing Goes Viral After Falling Asleep During Train Passage

A railway crossing in Pekalongan, Central Java, caused public outrage after the gatekeeper allegedly fell asleep, leaving the barrier open as a train approached. Local residents had to intervene to stop vehicles from crossing the tracks to prevent a potential accident.

US Attacks Iran in Strait of Hormuz, Oil Prices Surge Immediately

Global crude oil prices have breached the US$ 90 per barrel mark following US airstrikes on Iranian launchers in the Strait of Hormuz. The military escalation has triggered significant jumps in both Brent and WTI crude benchmarks due to heightened geopolitical tensions.

Arriving at the NU Muktamar Closing, Prabowo Welcomed by Gus Kikin and Rais Aam

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto attended the closing ceremony of the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Muktamar in Jombang. During the event, KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz, known as Gus Kikin, was elected as the General Chairman of PBNU for the 2026-2031 period.

Forest Fire Volunteer in Central Kalimantan Passes Away After Struggling with Shortness of Breath

A volunteer firefighter involved in combating forest and land fires in West Kotawaringin, Central Kalimantan, has died. Ahmadin, a member of the Huma Singgah Itah volunteer group, succumbed to health complications following exposure to heavy smoke.

BOLDe Chooses Indonesia as Production Hub, Here Are the Considerations

US-based household products company BOLDe, Inc. has selected Indonesia as its production centre, citing confidence in the country's workforce and manufacturing capabilities. Products made in Indonesia are already being sold to consumers in the United States through online channels. The company targets 50% annual sales growth and plans to expand exports to Canada, Australia, and the UK.

Habco (HATM) Private Placement of 640 Million Shares, Investor Revealed

PT Habco Trans Maritima (HATM) has announced a private placement of 640 million shares, representing 7.37% of its paid-up capital, at Rp500 per share, potentially raising Rp320 billion. The investor is Multi Sarana Nasional, an affiliated party that will increase its stake from 20.11% to 25.59% without changing control of the company. Proceeds will be used for capital expenditure, including fleet expansion or bank loan repayment.

GRIB Jaya Organisation Unaware of Post Office Fire

The GRIB Jaya community organisation has stated they were unaware of a fire that broke out at one of their posts in West Jakarta early Monday morning. Firefighters deployed multiple units to extinguish the blaze, which was contained within approximately thirty minutes.

UMY Career Fair 2026 Targets 80 Percent of Registrants to Be Absorbed into the Workforce

Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY) is holding its annual UMY Career Fair 2026, connecting graduates with around 20 partner companies from state-owned and private sectors. The event aims to help at least 80 percent of the 500 registrants secure positions, with organisers planning to expand Campus Hiring programmes as a follow-up strategy.

West Java Provincial Government Involves Dozens of Residents in Tea Plantation Revitalisation in Ciater and Pangalengan

The West Java Provincial Government has revitalised 22 hectares of tea plantations in Subang and Bandung regencies to restore their aesthetic, economic, and environmental functions. The project involves local residents and retired PTPN employees, aiming to prevent natural disasters and boost the local economy.

Chinese Tyre Giant to Invest Rp4 Trillion, Build Automotive Industry

PT Yosun Tire and Rubber Indonesia, a major Chinese company, has committed to investing Rp4 trillion in the Industropolis Batang Special Economic Zone. The investment will cover approximately 40 hectares of land and is expected to create around 4,000 jobs. The facility is planned to serve as the company's Indonesian headquarters and will be oriented towards export markets.

Arclin to Showcase Kevlar® and Nomex® Protection Solutions at Oil & Gas Asia 2026

Arclin has announced its participation in the Oil & Gas Asia (OGA) 2026 exhibition in Kuala Lumpur to showcase its advanced protective materials. This marks the company's first major regional event following its acquisition of the Kevlar® and Nomex® businesses from DuPont.

Jasa Marga emphasises safety-oriented traffic management on toll roads

State-owned toll operator Jasa Marga has reaffirmed its commitment to prioritising the safety of road users and operational staff during periods of dynamic traffic conditions. The company implemented strategic traffic diversions and temporary toll gate closures to maintain service stability during recent demonstrations.

Ministry of Social Affairs Holds Free Cataract Surgery Operation in Supiori, Papua

The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs, in collaboration with the Supiori Regency Government and various medical organisations, has organised free cataract surgeries for residents in Papua. The initiative aims to provide essential medical services to those with vision impairments, marking the first mass cataract surgery event in the Supiori Regency.

Reallocation of PPPK Teachers and Regional Budget Productivity

The Indonesian government plans to transition the employment status of over one million PPPK teachers to central government employees by 2027. This strategic move aims to alleviate the fiscal burden on regional budgets (APBD), allowing local governments to reallocate funds towards public services and economic development.

Implementing GCG, BRI Life Reaffirms Commitment to Customer-Centric Services

PT Asuransi BRI Life has reaffirmed its commitment to customer-centric services and sustainable performance through the implementation of Good Corporate Governance. The company attributes its 15 consecutive years of solid financial health to the hard work of its employees, customer trust, and strong synergy within the BRI Group ecosystem. BRI Life received two awards at the 27th Infobank Insurance Award 2026, recognising its excellent and consistent financial performance.

Popular: 13 Criminal Offences Proposed in Asset Forfeiture Bill and NTT Refugee Numbers Decrease

A summary of recent Indonesian news highlights the proposal of 13 types of criminal offences to be included in the Asset Forfeiture Bill. Additionally, reports cover the reduction of earthquake refugees in East Nusa Tenggara and Indonesia's diplomatic stance regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Nobel Laureate James Robinson Calls Indonesia a Political Miracle

Nobel Economics laureate James A. Robinson has described Indonesia's political experience as a 'political miracle', highlighting how a highly diverse society has lived together under Pancasila. The remarks emerged during a discussion hosted by the Megawati Institute in Jakarta, where Robinson's research on institutions and national prosperity was applied to the Indonesian context. The discussion also explored how Pancasila's values could be translated into an economic model rooted in Indonesian society's needs.

AI and New Strategies to Boost GDP

Indonesia must shift from viewing artificial intelligence as a mere cost-cutting tool to treating it as a strategic capability to drive economic growth. The article argues that democratising AI access for MSMEs and building responsible AI governance are essential to break the middle-income trap and accelerate GDP growth beyond 5 percent.

Prabowo Returns to Jombang for NU Congress Closing Ceremony

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto travelled to Jombang, East Java, to attend the closing of the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress. During the event, KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz was officially elected as the General Chairman of PBNU for the 2026-2031 term.

Pertamina Trans Kontinental's Transko Dara 3218 on 24-Hour Alert for Energy Distribution in Balongan

PT Pertamina Trans Kontinental's support vessel Transko Dara 3218 plays a critical role in ensuring the safe berthing and departure of oil and gas tankers at the Balongan Refinery Unit VI terminal. The vessel operates up to three times daily, supporting the facility that handles 80% of energy distribution for West Java, Jakarta, and Banten. PTK's integrated marine logistics services are positioned as a key component of national energy security.

Forest Fire Sweeps Slopes of Mount Semeru, Hiking Trails Fully Closed

A forest fire has been burning on the slopes of Mount Semeru in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, East Java, since 26 August 2026. Authorities have closed all hiking routes indefinitely to support firefighting efforts and protect visitors. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Muhammadiyah hopes new PBNU leadership will further strengthen brotherhood

The Chairman of Muhammadiyah, Haedar Nashir, has extended his congratulations to the newly elected leadership of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) for the 2026–2031 period. He expressed hope that the new administration will enhance cooperation and brotherhood with all religious and community organisations to benefit the Indonesian nation.

Atmosphere at Karet Station on its Final Day of KRL Passenger Services

Karet Station in Central Jakarta is set to cease KRL Jabodetabek passenger services starting tomorrow. All operations will be diverted to the Sudirman Baru/BNI City station to streamline commuter rail services.

Merah Putih Bridge in Pangandaran Collapses Shortly After Inauguration by Regent

The Merah Putih suspension bridge in Pangandaran collapsed during an inauguration ceremony attended by the Regent and military officials. While several people fell during the incident, no casualties were reported, and the cause is suspected to be overloading.

Agriculture Minister Amran dismisses 13 officials over involvement in online gambling

Indonesia's Minister of Agriculture, Andi Amran Sulaiman, has permanently removed 1und 13 echelon officials from their positions due to their involvement in online gambling. The decision follows an internal investigation revealing significant disciplinary breaches, including one official with gambling deposits nearing Rp200 million.

BRI Credit Risk Declines, Cost of Credit Shrinks to 3.1%

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) reported improved credit quality in the first half of 2026, with non-performing loans falling to 2.9% and loan at risk dropping to 9.1%. The improvement drove the bank's cost of credit down to 3.1% from 3.4% a year earlier. The gains came alongside strong lending growth of 16.2% year-on-year to Rp1,646 trillion.