Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 31 August 2026

Showing 1,351-1,400 of 1,481 articles

Habiburokhman Insists Asset Forfeiture Bill Must Not Become a Tool of Power

House of Representatives Commission III chairman Habiburokhman has stressed that the proposed Asset Forfeiture Bill must not be applied arbitrarily or used as an instrument of power to extort citizens or criminalise political opponents. He noted that the bill covers 13 categories of criminal offences beyond corruption, prompting concerns from figures such as former Jakarta governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama. Habiburokhman said the commission is seeking the best formula to strengthen oversight of the law's implementation.

Iran's supreme leader calls for Muslim unity against 'true enemy'

Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has urged Muslim leaders to recognise their 'true enemy' and resist its schemes. In a written message marking the Prophet Muhammad's birthday, he called for unity, friendship and cooperation across the Islamic world. He described the United States and Israel as the sworn enemies of Muslim unity and of Iran and its people.

Latest Deposit Interest Rates at BRI, BNI and Bank Mandiri as of 31 August 2026

Indonesia's state-owned banks BRI, BNI and Bank Mandiri have maintained their deposit interest rates as of 31 August 2026, with BRI recording a reduction in several tenors. The stability comes amid a global trend of rising interest rates and a 100 basis point increase by Bank Indonesia in June. Deposit products remain attractive due to LPS guarantee protection and measured returns.

Gus Kikin Officially Elected as PBNU Chairman for 2026–2031 at NU Congress in Jombang

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. The election was conducted through the Ahlul Halli wal Aqdi (AHWA) mechanism, replacing the previous one-man-one-vote system. Gus Kikin signed an integrity pact and received recommendations from AHWA members to guide the formation of the new board.

US strikes Iranian missile launchers, marking first attack since July

American forces struck two Iranian missile launchers on Larak Island on Sunday, the first direct attack on Iranian territory since late July. The operation targeted systems allegedly being prepared to fire sea-mine-laden rockets into the Strait of Hormuz. The strike comes amid ongoing tensions between Tehran and Washington over navigation in the strategic waterway.

Revealed: Why Many Companies Are Reluctant to Hire Gen Z

A growing number of executives say they are unwilling to hire fresh graduates, not because of technical shortcomings but due to a perceived lack of soft skills among Gen Z. The pandemic is cited as a key factor, as remote learning deprived many young people of opportunities to develop interpersonal abilities. Experts argue that rather than shutting out young talent, companies should invest in targeted training and mentoring programmes.

Algeria to impose death penalty for forest arsonists

Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has ordered the introduction of the death penalty for anyone convicted of deliberately setting forest fires, following a series of blazes that killed 12 people. The justice minister has been instructed to submit amendments to the penal code by 15 September. Algeria has maintained a de facto moratorium on executions since 1993.

TTU DPRD Member Named Suspect in Dr Icha Case, PKB Awaits Court Ruling

Nubertuss Tubani, a member of the Timor Tengah Utara (TTU) Regional House of Representatives from the National Awakening Party (PKB), has been named a suspect in the alleged intimidation of the late Dr Eliza Princila Ututi Pakaenoni, known as Dr Icha. PKB politician and DPR RI member Dipo Nusantara Pua Upa stated that the party will await a court ruling before imposing any sanctions. The East Nusa Tenggara Police have named three TTU DPRD members as suspects in the case.

Asian Markets Tumble, Kospi Plunges 3.5% Amid US-Iran Tensions

Asian stock markets fell sharply on Monday after US forces struck two Iranian rocket launchers near the Strait of Hormuz, reigniting fears of regional escalation. South Korea's Kospi led the decline with a 3.5% drop, while Japan's Nikkei 225 and Australia's S&P/ASX 200 also weakened. Investors are closely monitoring whether the conflict will disrupt shipping and global commodity markets.

Public Urged to Be Prudent in Managing Responsible Funding

Indonesia's fintech lending industry is strengthening financial education as outstanding loans reach Rp105.14 trillion. Kredit Pintar has introduced a 'Teman Atur Uang' approach to help users make responsible borrowing decisions. The initiative was discussed at the Fintech Lending Days 2026 forum in Denpasar, Bali.

House of Representatives Secures PT Pos Employee Rights, Rp158 Billion Claim Finally Paid

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has successfully pushed for the settlement of PT Pos Indonesia's outstanding claim of Rp158 billion from the Ministry of Social Affairs, providing certainty for around 59,000 active workers and pensioners. The payment was received on Saturday, 29 August 2026, following DPR intervention after workers raised concerns about their rights and the company's financial future. DPR leaders have pledged to continue oversight of PT Pos Indonesia's restructuring and the protection of employee rights.

Algerian foreign national soaking in Sunter Lake evacuated by joint team

A 30-year-old Algerian man was safely evacuated from Sunter Lake in North Jakarta after a prolonged negotiation on Sunday evening. The man, identified by the initials BZ, had been performing a religious ritual by soaking in the water since midday. He was subsequently taken into the custody of immigration officers.

Gold Prices at Galeri 24, UBS, Antam and Antam Retro Today, 31 August 2026

Gold bullion prices at Pegadaian's Galeri 24 remained unchanged on Monday, 31 August 2026. The outlet offers various brands including Galeri 24, Antam, UBS and Antam Mulia Retro, with sizes ranging from 0.5 grams to 1,000 grams. Prices for 1-gram bars were listed at Rp2,611,000 for Galeri 24, Rp2,711,000 for Antam, Rp2,654,000 for UBS and Rp2,627,000 for Antam Mulia Retro.

Fire at Instant Noodle Factory in Bekasi Originated from Used Cardboard Warehouse

A fire broke out at a warehouse storing used cardboard at PT Prakarsa Alam Segar, the producer of Mie Sedaap instant noodles, in Bekasi, West Java. The blaze, which started on Sunday evening, was brought under control after nearly seven hours, with firefighters remaining on site for cooling operations. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

BOLDe Makes Indonesia Production Hub for Global Markets

US household products company BOLDe Inc. has selected Indonesia as a production base, citing confidence in the country's workforce and manufacturing capabilities. Products made in Indonesia are already sold in the US via digital channels, with the company targeting 50% annual sales growth and future expansion to Canada, Australia, and the UK.

Elected Rais Aam approves five candidates for PBNU Chairman

The elected Rais Aam of Nahdlatul Ulama, K.H. Miftachul Akhyar, has approved five candidates for the position of PBNU Chairman during the 35th NU Congress in Jombang, East Java. The approval marks the end of the candidate screening stage, with the selection now moving to a consultative phase involving the Rais Aam and eight AHWA members. The five candidates include Gus Kikin, who led the vote count with 472 votes.

Purbaya: Many Schools Requesting MBG Shows Public Approval

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa says the high number of schools requesting the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme indicates strong public support. He has urged the National Nutrition Agency to publicise the demand to reassure the public and investors. The programme remains a fiscal priority despite concerns over its impact on the budget deficit.

Purbaya on Whoosh Project Debt Handover to Ministry of Finance on 15 September

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that management of the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed rail (Whoosh) debt will be transferred from Danantara to the Ministry of Finance on 15 September. The government is still finalising the business model, which may involve two Special Mission Vehicles under the ministry. The move is part of broader efforts to resolve the financial problems of the KCIC consortium.

NU Congress Results: Gus Kikin Elected PBNU Chairman for 2026-2031

KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz, known as Gus Kikin, has been elected Chairman of the Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU) for the 2026-2031 term by consensus of the nine-member Ahlul Halil Wal Aqdi council. He secured the top position in the preliminary vote with 472 ballots, ahead of four other candidates. The 35th NU Congress also appointed KH Miftachul Akhyar as Rais Aam, with President Prabowo Subianto scheduled to attend the closing ceremony.

Forest and Land Fires in South Sumatra Reach 2,001 Cases, 13 Regions in Red Zone

Forest and land fires in South Sumatra have reached 2,001 incidents as of 28 August 2026, with 13 regions now classified as red zones. Ogan Komering Ilir recorded the highest number of cases at 354, while four other regions remain on yellow status. The situation indicates that the threat of fires remains high during the peak of the dry season, which is expected to last until September.

10-Year Prison Sentence for Ridwan, Brutal Robber of Online Taxi Driver

M Ridwan Maulana has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for the robbery and acid attack that killed online taxi driver M Yoga Firdaus in April 2025. The Cibinong District Court found him guilty of theft preceded by violence, though the sentence was lower than the 14 years sought by prosecutors. The case drew public attention after the victim was found with severe burns and later died in hospital.

Halida Hatta Urges Public to Revive the Spirit of Independent Thinking

Halida Hatta, daughter of Indonesia's first vice president Mohammad Hatta, has called on Indonesians to embrace true independence through freedom of thought and critical thinking, especially amid the rise of digital technology and artificial intelligence. Speaking at a PDI-P event in Padang, she emphasised the complementary roles of Sukarno and Hatta as a 'dwitunggal' (duumvirate) in the nation's struggle. The event was part of the Bung Hatta Week commemorating the late leader's birth.

National Police Chief Rotates High-Ranking and Mid-Ranking Officers: Astamaops and Two Regional Police Chiefs

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has carried out a rotation of high-ranking and mid-ranking officers, including the position of Astamaops Kapolri and two regional police chiefs. The reshuffle was formalised in three telegram letters issued on Sunday, 30 August. Key appointments include Irjen Roycke Harry Langie as Astamaops Kapolri and Irjen Jawari as As SDM Kapolri.

JCI Slightly Corrects Last Week, Foreign Investors Exit These Stocks

Foreign investors recorded a net buy of Rp279.2 billion in the Indonesian stock market during the week of 24-28 August 2026, despite heavy selling in several blue-chip stocks. Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BBRI) saw the largest foreign net sell at Rp450 billion, followed by GoTo and Indosat. The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) ended the week down 0.12% at 6,518.12 after volatile trading.

Monday: 14 mobile Samsat locations available from Polda Metro Jaya Traffic Directorate

The Polda Metro Jaya Traffic Directorate is operating 14 mobile Samsat units across Jakarta, Depok, Tangerang and Bekasi on Monday. The service allows vehicle owners to pay annual vehicle tax and validate registration documents without visiting a main office. Locations include shopping centres, sub-district offices and public car parks, with varying operating hours.

Kalimantan Fires: Indonesian Military Leads Ecosystem Restoration

Indonesia's VI/Mulawarman Regional Military Command is spearheading ecosystem restoration efforts in East and North Kalimantan by planting trees in fire-damaged areas and reactivating water infrastructure. The initiative involves multiple agencies and communities, combining reforestation, water source optimisation, and spiritual approaches such as prayers for rain. The measures aim to restore ecological functions and reduce the risk of recurring forest and land fires during dry seasons.

Nepal Warns of Further Flash Floods

Nepalese authorities have warned residents of possible further flash floods after devastating floods struck Nepal and Tibet, with water levels rising again in the Bhotekoshi River. Scientists believe the initial disaster was triggered by the collapse of part of a glacier and mountainside at Langtang Lirung, with climate change making such events increasingly likely. The death toll has risen to 750, with thousands still missing.

Giant Hidden Mountains Inside Earth, Taller than Everest

Scientists have identified two enormous structures deep within the Earth's mantle that dwarf Mount Everest, with one stretching 3,000 km across the Pacific. Known as Large Low-Velocity Provinces, these formations slow seismic waves and may be composed of tightly packed mineral grains. New research suggests the Pacific structure contains subducted oceanic crust, challenging earlier theories about their origins.

NTT Earthquake: Evacuee Numbers Fall as Aftershocks Decline

The number of people displaced by the magnitude 7.7 earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara has fallen by 4,142 as aftershock frequency declines, with 188,161 residents still in evacuation centres. BNPB confirmed 111 fatalities and 95,567 damaged houses, including 27,414 severely damaged homes requiring temporary housing or relocation. President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka have both visited the affected region to oversee relief efforts and pledge government support for survivors.

Mobile signal reaches Gyirong landslide rescue site

Local officials confirmed on Sunday that communication signals have reached the main rescue site at Gyirong Port, which was affected by a landslide in the Xizang Autonomous Region of southwest China. The first emergency base station near the port's border gate became operational at 1:30 p.m. local time. Telecommunications operators have restored one damaged base station and built eight new ones near the disaster-stricken port.

Gus Kikin Elected as PBNU Chairman for 2026-2031

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, East Java. He was selected through the Ahlul Halli wal Aqdi (AHWA) mechanism from five candidates and received written approval from Rais Aam KH Miftachul Akhyar. The decision was announced by AHWA member KH Anwar Iskandar following a unanimous consensus among nine senior clerics.

797 Dead, Thousands Still Missing After Catastrophic Floods on Nepal Border

Flash floods and landslides along the Nepal-China border have killed at least 797 people, with more than 3,000 still unaccounted for. Nepal's disaster agency confirmed 781 deaths and 2,502 missing, while Chinese state media reported 16 dead and 546 missing in Tibet. The disaster has also devastated Nepal's education sector, with at least 19 schools affected and over 200 students reported missing.

Three Middle East Powers Form 'Muslim NATO', Set to Meet on Defence Pact

Senior officials from Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan are meeting in Istanbul to advance a joint defence agreement signed earlier this month. The 'Mecca Joint Defence Pact' establishes a collective defence clause modelled on NATO's Article 5, treating an attack on one member as an attack on all. The alliance is driven by concerns over the Iran war and regional instability, with Egypt being considered as a potential future member.

Uzbekistan Becomes Second Country to Use Chinese-Made J-10CE Fighter Jets

Uzbekistan has confirmed its acquisition of Chinese Chengdu J-10CE fighter jets, becoming the second foreign nation to operate the export variant. The jets were publicly displayed during the country's 35th Independence Day celebrations, signalling Beijing's growing foothold in a Central Asian defence market long dominated by Russian aircraft.

Netanyahu's Eldest Son Abruptly Evacuated from US Amid Assassination Threat

Yair Netanyahu, son of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, was urgently evacuated from the United States back to Israel after Israeli intelligence detected a serious assassination threat allegedly originating from Iran. The Shin Bet security service confirmed the threat, which emerged while Yair was living in Florida. The incident has drawn renewed attention to his controversial prolonged stay abroad and state-funded security arrangements.

Profile of KH Abdul Hakim, Elected Chairman of PBNU

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. The caretaker of Tebuireng Islamic Boarding School secured the highest number of votes among five candidates. His background combines traditional pesantren scholarship with professional experience in shipping, commodities, and media.

US Bombards Iran's Larak Island, Two Tehran Missile Launchers Destroyed

US forces have struck Iran's Larak Island in the Strait of Hormuz, destroying two Iranian missile launchers after observing preparations to deploy sea mines. Iran's Revolutionary Guard reported casualties and vowed retaliation, while Washington confirmed the strike and warned against further mining of the strategic waterway.

In Xinjiang, the Heavenly Lake Keeps Its Silence

Tianchi, known as the 'Heavenly Lake', lies in the Tianshan Mountains of Xinjiang, a region of vast geographical contrasts and ongoing geopolitical scrutiny. The lake's striking turquoise waters are protected by strict rules that prohibit swimming and fishing, encouraging visitors to simply observe and appreciate its beauty. Beyond the political debates surrounding Xinjiang, the article highlights the quieter natural landscape shaped by mountains, deserts, forests, and water.

Jakarta Government Traces Perpetrators of Public Facility Vandalism During Riot, to Report Them to Police

The Jakarta provincial government is investigating those responsible for damaging public facilities during unrest following a demonstration outside the DPR building on 27 August 2026. Special staff member Chico Hakim stated that vandalism of public property cannot be tolerated and that perpetrators will be reported to the police. Repairs to damaged facilities, including Transjakarta bus stops and CCTV cameras, have already been completed.

Yenny Wahid: Chaos and Anger Are Not NU's Culture

Yenny Wahid has criticised the demonstrations and acts of vandalism that occurred during the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress, stating that such behaviour contradicts the organisation's tradition of deliberation. She urged those disappointed with the congress outcomes to accept the decisions rather than resort to destructive actions. The daughter of former president Abdurrahman Wahid emphasised that all differences within NU should be resolved through musyawarah, or consensus-building.

MSCI Rebalancing Looms, Trillions of Rupiah Could Flee Indonesia

Market participants are bracing for a potential surge in trading on Monday as the latest MSCI index changes take effect, with two Indonesian stocks removed from the Global Standard Index. The rebalancing could trigger significant foreign outflows, though the scale is expected to be smaller than the Rp8.52 trillion net sell recorded in May. Attention is focused on GoTo and Charoen Pokphand Indonesia, with GoTo receiving special treatment due to its low liquidity.

From Religious Tourism to a Community Economic Ecosystem: The Proposed Wali Songo Economic Corridor

Indonesia's religious tourism holds untapped economic potential that extends far beyond visitor numbers. The article argues for a shift from measuring arrivals to building a community-based economic ecosystem around destinations like the Wali Songo pilgrimage sites. Drawing lessons from Saudi Arabia and India, it proposes leveraging Indonesia's unique community-integrated religious heritage to convert high visitor traffic into lasting local economic value.

JLL Finds Office Fit-Out Costs in Jakarta Cheaper

Office fit-out costs across Asia Pacific continue to rise, driven by labour shortages, material price pressures and increasingly complex building systems. Jakarta remains more affordable than other major Southeast Asian cities such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Manila and Bangkok. JLL says the comparison helps companies plan capital expenditure and workplace design strategies more accurately.

35th NU Congress Results: KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz Elected as PBNU Chairman

KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz, known as Gus Kikin, has been elected Chairman of the Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU) for the 2026-2031 period at the 35th NU Congress in Jombang, East Java. He secured the top position in the initial vote with 472 ballots before being confirmed by the nine-member Ahlul Halil Wal Aqdi council. KH Miftachul Akhyar was also appointed as Rais Aam, with President Prabowo Subianto scheduled to attend the congress closing ceremony.

Seven Palestinians Killed in Israeli Attacks on Gaza Despite Ceasefire

Seven Palestinians have been killed and 14 wounded in a series of Israeli attacks across the Gaza Strip, despite an ongoing ceasefire agreement. Gaza's Health Ministry reported that the death toll since the ceasefire began on 11 October has reached 1,318, with the overall toll since the war started in October 2023 now at 73,454. Rescue teams continue to face difficulties reaching victims trapped under rubble.

Serial Breast Groping Attacks Target Female Joggers in Bantul

Police in Sewon, Bantul, are investigating a series of breast groping assaults targeting female joggers, with two incidents reported within a week. The latest victim was attacked while running ahead of her husband near the Sewon wastewater treatment plant. Authorities have visited the scene and are gathering witness statements, though one earlier victim has yet to file a formal report.

Potential Transaction Surge in Today's Trading: What's Behind It?

The Indonesia Stock Exchange is bracing for a potential surge in trading activity on Monday as fund managers make final portfolio adjustments before the latest MSCI index composition takes effect on 1 September 2026. Two Indonesian stocks, GoTo and Charoen Pokphand Indonesia, are being removed from the MSCI Global Standard Index, with GoTo also exiting the MSCI Indonesia Investable Market Index. The rebalancing is expected to concentrate significant transactions in the closing session, while the Jakarta Composite Index posted a marginal weekly decline amid volatile trading.

Yesterday: Indonesian TIP victims in Jeju to Komnas HAM investigating Kudatuli

A roundup of legal news from Sunday covers police tracing reports of Indonesian citizens involved in human trafficking in Jeju, South Korea, and the National Commission on Human Rights forming an ad hoc team to investigate the 1996 Kudatuli incident. Other items include the National Police Chief meeting former Jemaah Islamiyah members, the arrest of a fugitive drug convict, and a minister urging calm after post-demonstration unrest.

Wayan Sution's Story of Using Wood Waste to Paint Wayang

Balinese artist I Wayan Sution Ariawan has developed a distinctive technique of painting wayang-themed artworks on discarded teak wood, using the natural texture and colour of the wood as part of the composition. His works were exhibited at the Tanah Lot Art and Food Festival VII 2026, where they attracted strong buyer interest. Sution, who is self-taught, is now passing his artistic skills on to his children.

Mojtaba Khamenei Calls for Muslim Unity Against US and Israel

Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has urged Muslim nations to overcome internal divisions and confront what he described as the 'true enemy' — the United States and Israel. Speaking during Islamic Unity Week, he placed the Palestinian issue at the centre of his appeal. Khamenei accused Washington and Tel Aviv of exploiting differences among Muslims to deepen internal rifts.