Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 31 August 2026

Showing 1,301-1,350 of 1,481 articles

National Police Chief Reshuffles Top Posts from Astamaops to AS SDM, Here Are the Generals with New Positions

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has rotated several strategic high-ranking positions within the Indonesian National Police. The reshuffle covers the Chief of Staff for Operations (Astamaops), Assistant for Human Resources (AS SDM), and the Chief of Staff Coordinator (Koorsahli). The changes were formalised in a telegram signed by Deputy Police Chief Commissioner General Dedi Prasetyo on 30 August 2026.

DPR Member: Kopdes Merah Putih Must Become a People's Economic Force

Deputy Chairman of House Commission VI Nurdin Halid has called for the Village/Sub-district Cooperatives Merah Putih (KDKMP) to be developed as an integrated mutual cooperation economic ecosystem involving state-owned enterprises, banks, and the private sector. He argued that cooperation between cooperatives, SOEs, and private businesses should be made mandatory under the new Cooperatives Law, rather than remaining voluntary or limited to CSR programmes. The remarks were made during a Commission VI working visit to Makassar focused on revising the Cooperatives Law.

99 Asmaul Husna Mosques Expected to Restore Mosques as Centres of Islamic Civilisational Development

The 99 Asmaul Husna Mosque programme, initiated by Masjid Nusantara and the Cinta Qur'an Foundation, has entered its second phase of construction in West Java. The initiative aims to restore the mosque's historical role as the centre of community and civilisational development, inspired by the Prophet Muhammad's establishment of a mosque upon his migration to Medina. The second phase includes groundbreaking ceremonies at seven locations across West Java, following the inauguration of two mosques in Aceh in July 2026.

IHSG Opens Lower but Poised for Rebound as Asian Markets Rise Amid Wall Street Slump

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened slightly lower on Monday but is expected to rebound, supported by a strong technical level at 6,500. Asian markets strengthened despite Wall Street's decline, as falling oil prices and hopes for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz buoyed investor sentiment. Analysts also noted higher-than-expected Australian inflation, which could increase the likelihood of a Reserve Bank of Australia rate hike.

Electric Car Hits Motorcycle and Busway Separator in Front of DPR, Traffic Congested

An accident involving an electric car and a motorcyclist occurred in front of the DPR/MPR complex on Jalan Gatot Subroto, Central Jakarta, on Monday morning. The electric car struck a Transjakarta busway separator, leaving the motorcyclist injured. Police are handling the incident, which has caused significant traffic congestion towards Slipi.

Poverty and the challenge of economic mobility

Indonesia's poverty rate fell to 8.07 percent in March 2026, yet the deeper challenge lies in ensuring households that cross the poverty line can sustain and build upon their gains. With food still dominating 74.7 percent of the poverty line, low-income households have little room to save or invest, leaving them vulnerable to shocks. The article argues that poverty reduction must be accompanied by strengthened economic resilience to translate statistical progress into lasting capacity.

Minister urges integrity in university admissions as SNPMB evaluation begins

Higher Education, Science and Technology Minister Brian Yuliarto has called for a thorough evaluation of the 2026 national university admissions process to strengthen integrity, transparency and accessibility. The review will also cover independent admission routes at state universities, with institutions urged to clearly communicate selection mechanisms, capacity and costs. The ministry aims to ensure the admissions system continues to expand access to higher education across Indonesia.

MGLV Controller Sells 69 Million Shares Below Market Price, What's Going On?

Putra Batee, a controlling shareholder of PT Panca Anugrah Wisesa Tbk (MGLV), sold 69 million shares at Rp7,250 each, totalling Rp500 billion, significantly below the market price. The transaction reduced his stake from 71.28% to 67.66%, with no explanation yet provided for the discount. MGLV shares have surged 440.91% year-to-date, making the below-market sale particularly notable.

House Commission III: 13 criminal offences proposed for inclusion in Asset Forfeiture Bill

House of Representatives Commission III has proposed 13 categories of criminal offences for inclusion in the Asset Forfeiture Bill, ranging from corruption to human trafficking. Chairman Habiburokhman stressed that asset forfeiture must not be applied arbitrarily or used as a tool of power to extort citizens, criminalise political opponents, or silence critics. The commission is seeking the best formula to strengthen oversight of the law's implementation and ensure law enforcement officers are clean and have integrity.

Rupiah Opens Weaker, US Dollar Rises to Rp17,725 This Morning

The rupiah weakened against the US dollar at the start of trading on Monday, reversing gains from the previous session. The depreciation follows a sharp rise in the dollar after Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh signalled that interest rate hikes may be needed if inflation does not return to target. Markets are also awaiting the parliamentary session that will confirm the new leadership of Bank Indonesia.

Indonesian diplomacy after Netanyahu closes the door on Palestine

Indonesia faces a new diplomatic challenge after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected the establishment of a Palestinian state. Jakarta must now define its role within the Board of Peace framework, where one key party opposes the political path towards Palestinian statehood. The article argues Indonesia should adopt a constructive position that links Israeli security concerns with Palestinian political rights rather than choosing between them.

Ajaib secures $270M mega-round, GoTo leadership reshuffle, and 500 Global sunsets SEA fund

A significant roundup of the Indonesian startup ecosystem highlights SBI Holdings' $270 million investment in Ajaib and Morgan Stanley's strategic stake in GoTo. The report also covers leadership changes at GoTo, the profitability of EV venture Electrum, and scrutiny surrounding Danantara's reported profits.

IHSG Opens Weak This Morning, Down 0.2%

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened lower on Monday as investors braced for a potential surge in trading activity due to the implementation of MSCI index changes at the close of trading. Market participants are also digesting hawkish remarks from Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh at Jackson Hole and escalating US-Iran tensions near the Strait of Hormuz.

What Have We Sent for Tomorrow?

This article reflects on Surah Al-Hashr verse 18, which urges believers to examine what they have prepared for the hereafter. Drawing on Ibn Kathir's commentary, it emphasises that piety must be reflected in actions, not just feelings, and that the afterlife is closer than people imagine.

Land Fire Hits Kariangau, Balikpapan; Seven Fire Engines Deployed

A land fire broke out in the Kariangau area of Balikpapan, East Kalimantan, on Sunday, prompting the deployment of seven fire engines. The Balikpapan Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has recorded 37 forest and land fire incidents in the city so far in 2026. Authorities have urged residents to avoid slash-and-burn land clearing amid heightened fire risk during the dry season.

Foreign Ministry Explains Legal Process for Indonesian Citizen Arrested for Carrying Knife at Changi

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has confirmed it is providing consular assistance to an Indonesian citizen arrested at Singapore's Changi Airport for concealing a knife in his shoe. The man has been charged under Singaporean law for possessing a dangerous weapon in a public place and faces up to three years in prison if convicted. The Indonesian government says it fully respects Singapore's legal authority while continuing to monitor the case.

Creative Economy Ministry strengthens creative economy cooperation with Philippines at ASEAN level

Indonesia's Creative Economy Ministry and the Philippine Ambassador to Indonesia have agreed to deepen collaboration in the creative economy sector. The partnership aims to boost talent exchange, joint product development, and market access across Southeast Asia. Both countries also plan to support regional initiatives, including the proposed ASEAN Center of Excellence for Creative Industries in Manila.

Sejauh Mata Memandang Donasikan Separuh Hasil Penjualan Agustus 2026 untuk NTT dan Kalimantan

Indonesian slow fashion brand Sejauh Mata Memandang has pledged half of its August 2026 sales revenue to support earthquake recovery in Nusa Tenggara Timur and forest fire response in Kalimantan. The funds will be channelled through local partners to reach remote villages and to equip firefighting teams protecting the Gunung Palung National Park ecosystem. The initiative reflects growing private sector engagement in disaster relief and environmental conservation across Indonesia.

Bank Indonesia and the Exchange Rate in the Next Five Years

Senior economist Didik J Rachbini argues that the new Bank Indonesia leadership is unlikely to strengthen the rupiah over the next five years. He attributes the currency's persistent weakness to structural economic factors, weak external sector competitiveness, and high transaction costs. Routine interest rate adjustments alone, he contends, will not overcome these deep-rooted constraints.

MAKI Questions Why Asset Forfeiture Bill Excludes Online Gambling Offences

The Indonesian Anti-Corruption Society (MAKI) has questioned the House of Representatives Commission III's decision to exclude gambling and online gambling offences from the Asset Forfeiture Bill. Coordinator Boyamin Saiman argues that online gambling has a proven destructive impact on the economy and public purchasing power, with PPATK having frozen hundreds of billions of rupiah in suspected gambling proceeds. He suspects possible intervention by gambling bosses and doubts the bill will be passed by December as targeted.

Profile of Gus Kikin, PBNU Chairman 2026-2031 Elected by 9 AHWA

KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz, known as Gus Kikin, has been elected Chairman of the Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU) for the 2026-2031 period by the nine-member Ahlul Halli Wal Aqdi (AHWA) council. The decision was reached through deliberation and consensus at the Bahrul Ulum Islamic Boarding School in Jombang, East Java. Gus Kikin is a great-grandson of NU founder KH Hasyim Asy'ari and previously led the organisation's East Java chapter.

Profile of PBNU Chairman Gus Kikin, Great-Grandson of Hasyim Asy'ari from Tebuireng

KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz, known as Gus Kikin, has been elected Chairman of the Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU) for the 2026-2031 term at the 35th NU Congress in Jombang. He secured 472 votes through the Ahlul Halli Wal Aqdi mechanism, surpassing four other candidates. Gus Kikin, who oversees the Tebuireng Islamic boarding school, is a direct descendant of NU founder KH M Hasyim Asy'ari and has pledged to strengthen the organisation's foundational charter and economic development.

Antam gold price stable at Rp2.67 million per gram on Monday morning

The price of Antam gold remained unchanged at Rp2.67 million per gram on Monday morning, with the buyback price also steady at Rp2.523 million per gram. Transactions above Rp10 million are subject to a 1.5 percent income tax, while purchases incur a 0.25 percent tax. The stability reflects a quiet start to the week for the precious metals market.

Iran Retaliates, Rains Missiles on US Military Base in Jordan

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched a large-scale ballistic missile attack on US military bases in Jordan, claiming to have destroyed vital infrastructure. The strike was a direct response to a US-Israeli attack on Larak Island the previous day. Jordan's armed forces intercepted eight missiles, while US sources claimed nearly all projectiles were shot down.

Ivan Gunawan channels Rp250 million in aid to NTT through Baznas RI

Celebrity designer Ivan Gunawan has donated Rp250 million to earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara through the National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas RI). The funds are earmarked for building wells and clean water facilities in areas with high numbers of displaced people. Baznas officials welcomed the donation and expressed hope it would encourage further contributions.

Alleged Illegal Abortion and Baby Trafficking Practices in Mataram Spark Outrage

The Mataram Child Protection Agency (LPA) has received reports of alleged illegal abortions at a private hospital in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, involving a high school student. The case has also uncovered suspected baby trafficking involving an obstetrician who allegedly offered pregnant women two options: abortion or illegal adoption. LPA Mataram is coordinating with law enforcement to investigate the syndicate and has already returned one baby to its biological mother.

Retaliating for Attack on Larak Island, IRGC Strikes US Military Base in Jordan

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has claimed responsibility for missile and drone strikes on US military bases in Jordan, describing the operation as retaliation for an American attack on Larak Island. The IRGC stated the assault inflicted significant damage on technical infrastructure and fighter jet preparation sites. Tehran warned that any further aggression would be met with an even more devastating response.

Economy recap: Investors queue to enter Kendal SEZ, rice production unaffected

The government reports that investors are still queuing to enter the Kendal Special Economic Zone and Batang Integrated Industrial Area amid high manufacturing investment interest in Central Java. Meanwhile, the regent of Sidenreng Rappang says the El Niño phenomenon has not significantly affected rice production in the region. Other stories cover PTDI's optimism for its N219 aircraft, the cooperatives minister's call for cooperatives to move beyond lending, and KAI Properti's transit-oriented housing development in Jakarta.

OJK Strengthens Digital Finance at Digination Day 2026

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) hosted Digination Day 2026 to align regulators, industry players, and investors in building a safe and inclusive digital finance ecosystem. The authority introduced a Fintech Startup Accelerator programme and reaffirmed the principle of 'same activity, same risk, same regulation' to ensure governance while supporting growth. Crypto asset transactions reached IDR 20.52 trillion as of July 2026, with OJK aiming to position Indonesia as a regional leader in digital finance.

Economist: Indonesia Needs to Strengthen External Sector to Stabilise Rupiah

Senior economist Didik J Rachbini argues that Indonesia's economic policy must become more outward-looking to bolster foreign exchange reserves and support the rupiah. He highlights that the country's reliance on its large domestic market leaves the currency vulnerable, with reserves far below those of smaller ASEAN neighbours. Rachbini warns that without strengthening export competitiveness, Bank Indonesia will struggle to achieve a stable and strong rupiah.

Vilmei's Billions in Cash Embezzled by Employee and Boyfriend Exposed

Indonesian content creator Vilmei reported the alleged embezzlement of Rp 1.28 billion from her TikTok account by an employee. Police in Bekasi have named three suspects, including the employee, her boyfriend, and an accomplice who allegedly received the stolen funds. The money is believed to have been spent on online gambling and alcohol.

Today's Stock Recommendations: VKTR, INDY, to BFIN

The Jakarta Composite Index closed marginally lower on Friday as investors weighed corporate earnings and MSCI index rebalancing. Aneka Tambang reported a sharp rise in first-half net profit, while TBS Energi Utama highlighted the growing contribution of its green business. Mega Capital Sekuritas issued buy recommendations for VKTR, INDY, BBTN, KRYA, and BFIN.

Brigadier General Hengki Haryadi, Who Once Arrested Hercules, Now Appointed as West Papua Daya Police Chief

Brigadier General Hengki Haryadi has been appointed as the new Chief of Police for West Papua Daya, replacing Brigadier General Yulius Audie Sonny Latuheru. The appointment, effective 30 August 2026, marks a promotion for Hengki, who previously served as Deputy Chief of Riau Police. Hengki is widely known for his investigative career, most notably leading the 2013 arrest of Rosario de Marshal, also known as Hercules.

Ibrahim Arief awaits appeal verdict in Chromebook corruption case

Former Education Ministry technology consultant Ibrahim Arief, known as Ibam, is awaiting the appeal ruling in his corruption case involving the procurement of Chromebook laptops. He was previously sentenced to four years in prison and fined Rp500 million for abuse of authority. Ibam has expressed hope that the appeal will result in his acquittal, describing the initial conviction as a major question mark.

Tostem Pavilion Returns to Surabaya, Introducing Latest IN16 Series Innovations

Tostem Indonesia will showcase its latest window and door innovations at the IndoBuildTech Expo Surabaya in September 2026. The Tostem Pavilion, designed by Ruangrona, will feature the new IN16 Series including Corner Sliding and Floor Spring Door products. The company also introduced a new Chestnut colour option for its Giesta door range, reflecting Japanese wood-processing craftsmanship.

Algerian National Found Soaking in Sunter Lake Claiming Ritual, Now Evacuated

An Algerian national was evacuated from Sunter Lake in North Jakarta after residents reported him soaking in the water for hours, claiming it was a religious ritual. Fire and rescue officers negotiated with the man for over three hours before successfully removing him safely. He has since been handed over to immigration authorities.

1,000 People Bury Underpants, Their Purpose Is Unexpected

Nearly 1,000 Swiss residents buried pairs of underpants as part of a large-scale citizen science project to assess soil biological activity. The experiment measured how much the cotton fabric decomposed over one to two months, revealing that private gardens showed the highest decomposition rates. Researchers noted that faster decomposition does not necessarily indicate a healthier natural ecosystem.

Alleged Rp58.5 Billion Gold Investment Fraud: Criminologist Says Senior Commissioner F Exploited Rank and Position

A criminologist from the University of Indonesia has weighed in on a police report filed by a Malaysian investor against a senior police commissioner over an alleged Rp58.5 billion gold mining investment fraud. Adrianus Meliala argues the case should also be examined under the UN Convention Against Corruption for 'trading in influence', as the officer's active rank and position may have been used to gain material benefit. The report was received by the National Police Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) on 20 August 2026.

IRGC: Iran ready to retaliate against US attack on Larak Island that killed civilians

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has accused the United States of carrying out an aggressive strike on Larak Island in southern Iran, killing and wounding several fighters and civilians. The IRGC vowed retaliation and punishment against the aggressor. The incident follows US media reports that American forces struck the island where troops were allegedly preparing to launch rocket-borne mines into the Strait of Hormuz.

Alamtri Resources (ADRO) Profit Rises 76.8% in First Half of 2026

PT Alamtri Resources Indonesia Tbk. (ADRO) reported a 76.84% year-on-year increase in profit attributable to owners of the parent entity for the first half of 2026, reaching US$309.4 million. Revenue grew 16.5% to US$999.2 million while cost of revenue remained nearly flat, driving a sharp improvement in gross profit. The company also benefited from a positive swing in other net income and a turnaround in joint venture contributions.

Three Provinces and Two Regions Win 2026 Regional Engineering Index Awards

The Indonesian Engineers Association (PII) and the Ministry of Home Affairs have awarded the 2026 Regional Engineering Index (IKD) to five local governments for outstanding engineering practices. North Maluku Province took the top Platinum and Gold awards, while Riau, Jakarta, Sragen Regency, and Balikpapan City also received recognition. The index, measured across 327 regional governments, aims to embed engineering standards into regional development governance under Law No. 11 of 2014.

House Deputy Speaker Urges Investigation into Alleged Child Exploitation During 27 August Unrest

Deputy Speaker of House Commission VIII Singgih Januratmoko has called for a thorough investigation into the involvement of 153 children in post-demonstration unrest outside the DPR building on 27 August 2026. He stressed that children must never be used for violence or exploited for adult interests, and urged a comprehensive prevention approach involving parents, schools, government, and digital platforms. Police are currently investigating parties suspected of recruiting and exploiting minors for unlawful activities.

Financial Problems That End Marriages Are Not About Salary

A matchmaking agency highlights that financial compatibility, rather than income size, is the key factor in preventing divorce. Data from Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency shows economic factors contributed to nearly a quarter of the 438,168 divorce cases in 2025. The agency also warns of 'checklist fatigue', where overly specific partner criteria lead to emotional exhaustion in the search for a partner.

National Police Chief Transfers 424 Senior and Mid-Ranking Officers, Commissioner General Fadil Imran Enters Retirement List

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has transferred 424 senior and mid-ranking officers in a major reshuffle announced on 30 August 2026. Among those affected is Commissioner General M. Fadil Imran, the former Astama Ops Kapolri, who has officially entered retirement after turning 58. Inspector General Roycke Harry Langie has been appointed to fill the vacated position.

Eko Suwanto Pledges to Increase DIY Stunting Prevention Budget

Eko Suwanto, Chair of Commission A of the Yogyakarta Special Region (DIY) DPRD, has pledged to increase the stunting prevention budget for all 45 urban villages in Yogyakarta City beyond the current Rp120 million per village. The commitment was made during the Mustika Rasa Festival, which promoted healthy local food as part of efforts to combat stunting. The festival also highlighted the PDI Perjuangan party's broader campaign for food self-sufficiency and nutritional adequacy.

Gus Kikin Elected Chairman of PBNU for 2026-2031 Term

KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz, known as Gus Kikin, has been elected Chairman of the Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU) for the 2026-2031 term. The decision was reached through the Ahlul Halli wal Aqdi (AHWA) consultative mechanism during the 35th NU Congress. Gus Kikin had previously secured the highest number of votes in the initial tabulation of candidates.

The BPES Promise Debt and the Eight Percent Growth Engine

Indonesia's ambition to achieve eight percent economic growth requires unlocking the vast potential of Islamic finance, particularly zakat and cash waqf, which remain largely untapped. Transforming the coordinating body KNEKS into a powerful new agency, BPES, is seen as essential to mobilise these funds and drive the halal value chain. Without this institutional reform, hundreds of trillions of rupiah in potential will remain dormant, hindering the nation's development goals.

Grief as Father and Son Die in Suspected Gas Leak Explosion in Bekasi

A suspected gas leak explosion at a home in Cikarang Utara, Bekasi, killed a father and his young son and injured four other family members. The blast occurred while a family member was cooking, and authorities are investigating the incident.

Iran attacks American forces in Jordan

Iranian armed forces have reportedly launched an attack on US military positions in Jordan, according to Russian media citing US officials. Most missiles were intercepted and no significant damage has been reported so far. The incident follows a series of tit-for-tat strikes between Washington and Tehran that began in late February and remain unresolved.

10,232 Aftershocks Rock Flores, Largest at M 6.2

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has recorded 10,232 aftershocks following the M 7.7 earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. The largest aftershock measured M 6.2, while 35 aftershocks exceeded M 5.0 and 157 were felt by residents. The death toll remains at 111, with no new fatalities reported.