Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 31 August 2026

Showing 201-250 of 1,481 articles

SMEs to Lose Special Allocation Fund in 2026, Minister of Industry Intervenes

The Indonesian Minister of Industry, Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita, is addressing the removal of Small and Medium Industry (IKM) support from the 2026 Special Allocation Fund (DAK) scheme. Despite the funding shift, the Ministry is proposing new thematic supports for industrial and food development zones for 2027 to maintain productivity gains.

Ahead of Central Java Provincial Sports Week, PLN Enhances Competency of Candirejo Tourism Managers

PT PLN (Persero) is supporting the enhancement of tourism management skills in Candirejo Tourism Village to prepare for the 2026 Central Java Provincial Sports Week (Porprov). The initiative focuses on improving safety, service quality, and professional certification for local tourism groups to boost the local economy.

Indonesia-Japan defense ties expand with forest fire response

Indonesia and Japan are strengthening their bilateral defence cooperation through humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts. As part of the Indonesia-Japan Defence Cooperation Arrangement, Japan is deploying three CH-47 Chinook helicopters to assist with aerial firefighting and water-bombing operations in Indonesia.

Bank Indonesia and Monetary Authority of Singapore Officially Implement LCT

Bank Indonesia and the Monetary Authority of Singapore have officially operationalised the Local Currency Transaction (LCT) framework for bilateral settlements. This initiative aims to strengthen ASEAN financial integration and reduce reliance on the US dollar by facilitating trade and investment using Rupiah and Singapore Dollars.

Bank Indonesia distributes 32.5 tonnes of humanitarian aid for NTT earthquake victims

Bank Indonesia has completed the distribution of 32.5 tonnes of humanitarian aid to assist communities affected by earthquakes in East Nusa Tenggara. The aid, which includes essential supplies such as medicine, food, and temporary shelters, was delivered in three stages in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Agency and the Indonesian Air Force.

Jakarta Information Commission: 2026 E-Monev to Focus on Waste Sorting and Management Initiative

The Jakarta Information Commission (KI) has announced that the 2026 Electronic Monitoring and Evaluation (E-Monev) for public information disclosure will feature a special thematic focus on the waste sorting and management programme. This initiative aims to ensure public bodies provide transparent information regarding strategic environmental policies implemented by the Jakarta Provincial Government.

Mexican Minister considers trade relations with US 'greatest challenge'

Mexican Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard has identified the evolving trade relationship with the United States as the most significant challenge of the century. He noted a global shift from free trade towards protectionism, which is reshaping manufacturing priorities and impacting Mexico's economic landscape.

Bogor Regent Urges Public Not to Speculate Regarding KPK Investigation

Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto has called on the public to refrain from speculation regarding the ongoing Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) investigation within the Bogor Regency Government. The investigation involves allegations of corruption related to revenue collection and procurement within several regional agencies.

Deputy Human Rights Minister Critiques Forest Fire Response: Do Not Stop at Mere Extinguishment!

Deputy Minister of Human Rights Mugiyanto has emphasised that addressing forest and land fires must extend beyond extinguishing flames to include accountability and community recovery. He stressed that the government must ensure those affected by smoke and habitat loss are protected and that responsible parties are held legally accountable.

Ministry of Transport prepares drone regulations for passenger transport

The Indonesian Ministry of Transport is developing new regulations to manage the use of drones for cargo and passenger transport. The initiative aims to ensure safety and operational standards as drone technology evolves into a viable component of the national transport system.

Police Uncover Umrah Fraud in North Maluku, Losses for Pilgrims Reach Rp2.5 Billion

North Maluku Regional Police have uncovered a major Umrah pilgrimage fraud involving PT Betteravel Indonesia Perkasa, resulting in losses of approximately Rp2.5 billion. One suspect has been apprehended in Bali as investigators continue to trace the flow of funds and identify other parties involved in the scheme.

Bogor Regency Government Affirms Compliance with KPK Legal Process

The Regent of Bogor, Rudy Susmanto, has declared that the local government will fully cooperate with the Corruption Eradication Commission's (KPK) ongoing investigations. While acknowledging that the legal scrutiny of several regional departments may cause hesitation among officials, he emphasised that public services must continue to operate normally.

Orangutan Found Collapsed in Palm Oil Plantation Due to West Kalimantan Forest Fires; Veterinarian Provides Oxygen and IV Fluids

The Ministry of Forestry has evacuated an adult male Bornean orangutan found in a weakened state near a palm oil plantation in Ketapang, West Kalimantan. The animal is believed to have suffered from smoke inhalation caused by ongoing forest and land fires in the region.

Forest and Land Fire Area on Mount Semeru Slopes Reaches 600 Hectares

Wildfires on the slopes of Mount Semeru in Lumajang, East Java, have affected over 600 hectares of land. Emergency services are prioritising the creation of firebreaks to prevent the flames from reaching residential areas and local farmland.

Electric Motorcycle Incentives to be Provided in September? Airlangga Responds

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has indicated that electric motorcycle incentives could potentially commence in September 2026. However, the implementation remains dependent on the issuance of the necessary Minister of Finance Regulation (PMK).

Decile Data Inaccurate? Here is Direct Advice from BPS

The Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) has provided guidance for citizens who believe their economic decile classification is incorrect, affecting their eligibility for social assistance. Residents are encouraged to use the Ministry of Social Affairs' verification facilities or seek assistance from local sub-district offices to update their status.

Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Emphasises Need for Increased Productivity in Red and White Fishing Villages

Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono has stated that the development of the Red and White Fishing Village (KNMP) programme must focus on boosting economic productivity rather than just improving housing. The initiative aims to address long-standing issues in fishing communities by providing facilities that directly support local economic activities.

MP Urges Rapid and Comprehensive Recovery for Sade Traditional Village

Nessy Kalviya, a member of Commission VIII of the Indonesian House of Representatives, has called for the swift reconstruction of the Sade Traditional Village in West Nusa Tenggara following a devastating fire. The recovery efforts must focus not only on rebuilding homes but also on restoring the livelihoods and cultural heritage of the affected Sasak community.

PAM JAYA Confirms Jatiluhur Reservoir Raw Water Supply Secure Until End of 2026

The President Director of PAM JAYA, Arief Nasrudin, conducted a site visit to the Jatiluhur Reservoir to assess water security for Jakarta's residents. Despite a slight drop in water levels due to the dry season, officials confirmed that the raw water supply remains sufficient to meet demand through late 2026.

Indonesia renews ICAO Council bid after 25 years

The Indonesian Ministry of Transportation has announced a renewed bid for a seat on the ICAO Council following the expansion of the Council from 36 to 40 member states. Leveraging its strategic position as an archipelagic nation and its significant aviation capacity, Indonesia aims to influence international civil aviation policy and promote regional safety and sustainability.

Commission VIII Highlights Student Supervision at Bekasi People's School

Member of Parliament Wardatul Asriah has emphasised the importance of dedicated supervisors for students residing in the boarding facilities of the Integrated People's School 1 in Bekasi Regency. The MP expressed support for this national strategic programme under President Prabowo Subianto, noting its potential to provide quality education to underprivileged children.

AI-Based Family Companion Robot Makes Debut at WRC 2026

The AI-powered family companion robot, Mobo, has been unveiled at the World Robot Conference 2026, showcasing advanced embodied intelligence. Developed by AiMOGA Robotics, the robot is designed to navigate domestic environments, recognise users, and assist with daily household tasks.

West Jakarta Food Security, Marine and Agriculture Office Provides Free Sterilisation for 200 Male Cats in Tamansari

The West Jakarta Food Security, Marine and Agriculture Office has launched a free sterilisation programme for 200 male cats in the Tamansari district. The initiative aims to humanely control the feline population and prevent the spread of diseases such as rabies.

Acting Regent Opens Integrated People's School 1 in Bekasi

The Bekasi Regency Government has officially launched the operations of Integrated People's School 1, a strategic initiative designed to reduce school dropout rates caused by economic hardship. The boarding school model aims to provide accessible education and character building for underprivileged children through a collaborative effort between central and local governments.

Forest Fire haze disrupts 10 flights at West Kalimantan airport

Thick haze caused by forest and land fires in West Kalimantan has forced the adjustment of ten flight schedules at Supadio International Airport. The reduced visibility has impacted several domestic and international routes, including services to Singapore and Surabaya, prompting heightened coordination between airport authorities and aviation stakeholders.

Asset Forfeiture Bill Targeted for Completion by December 2026, Five Key Issues Under Scrutiny

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) aims to finalise the Asset Forfeiture Bill by December 2026. Legal experts are highlighting critical concerns regarding the definition of assets and the balance between state enforcement and the protection of legitimate property rights.

Iran Under Pressure: Exports and Imports Plummet by 35% as US Begins to Sever Dollar Channels

Iran's economy is facing significant strain as US sanctions and trade disruptions cause a 25% to 35% drop in trade volume. Washington is now expanding its pressure by targeting third-party financial institutions, such as Banque Misr UAE, to dismantle Iran's shadow banking networks.

Illiterate Elderly Woman in Pekalongan Stripped of Social Aid Due to Alleged Online Gambling Involvement

An elderly woman in Pekalongan, Central Java, had her social assistance deactivated after her national ID was flagged for involvement in online gambling. Despite being illiterate and owning no mobile phone, the woman's benefits were suspended, prompting a local official to file a formal dispute to restore her aid.

Drought in Bekasi Regency Spreads to 12 Districts, Local Government Distributes Clean Water

The Bekasi Regency Government, in collaboration with the Indonesian Red Cross, has begun distributing clean water to combat an expanding drought affecting 12 districts. Local authorities are also monitoring the situation closely to decide on a potential disaster emergency status and are implementing long-term solutions like satellite wells.

Aceh Youth Leader Urges Certainty Regarding Status of Bulan Bintang Flag

Acehnese youth leader Suryadi Djamil has called on the Central and Aceh governments to resolve the ongoing controversy surrounding the Bulan Bintang flag. He argues that legal certainty is essential to prevent the symbol from being exploited for political provocation during local disputes.

Central Jakarta Administration Prepares 4 Shelters for Gambir Fire Victims

The Central Jakarta City Government has established four emergency shelters to accommodate residents displaced by a major fire in the Gambir area. The blaze has affected 114 houses, leaving 880 individuals from 310 families without homes.

PLN Icon Plus Partners with Indonesian Television Journalists Association in North Sumatra for Orphanage Charity Event

PLN Icon Plus's North Sumatra Regional SBU has collaborated with the Indonesian Television Journalists Association (IJTI) North Sumatra to conduct a social responsibility programme at the Al-Marhamah Orphanage in Medan. The initiative, part of the 'Iconnectivity for Humanity' programme, aims to provide aid and strengthen corporate-media synergy to support social welfare.

Former Acting Regent of Central Maluku Named Suspect in Clean Water Project Corruption

The Maluku High Prosecutor's Office has named former Acting Regent of Central Maluku, Muhammad Marasabessy, as a suspect in a corruption case involving a clean water project in Haruku Island. The investigation reveals that the project, valued at Rp12.4 billion, involved significant irregularities and has resulted in state losses of approximately Rp3.8 billion.

Perumda Tirta Bhagasasi Corruption: Bekasi District Attorney Prepares Indictment for Rp4.5 Billion Loss

The Bekasi District Attorney's Office is finalising an indictment regarding a corruption case involving the installation of water connections at Perumda Tirta Bhagasasi. The alleged scheme, which caused an estimated loss of Rp4.5 billion to the state, involves the misappropriation of installation fees by company officials.

Neurorights: Why Minister Pigai Wants It in Human Rights Bill

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has proposed including neurorights protections in Indonesia's Human Rights Bill to address emerging threats from artificial intelligence and neurotechnology. He argues that legal safeguards are needed to prevent violations such as the theft of mental privacy as neurochip technology advances. The ministry is positioning this as part of technocratic planning for future human rights challenges rather than a response to existing violations.

Election of New PBNU Chairman Seen as Moment for Reconciliation, Gus Kikin Urged to Avoid Winner Takes All

Political observer Ahmad Khoirul Umam has called on newly elected Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) chairman KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz, known as Gus Kikin, to prioritise internal reconciliation following his victory at the organisation's congress. Umam noted that Gus Kikin secured 472 votes, roughly double that of his rivals, and possesses strong leadership credentials including his Tebuireng lineage and managerial character. He urged the new leadership to avoid a 'winner takes all' approach and to accommodate all factions proportionally.

Chinese Dramas Invade Hollywood, Disney and Netflix Step Aside

The rise of micro-dramas—short-form episodic content designed for mobile phones—is challenging the dominance of major streaming giants like Netflix and Disney+. With production costs significantly lower than traditional series, this format is attracting Hollywood stars and massive global investment.

FIFA sanctions and pandemic caused Indonesian clubs to struggle in Asia

I.League Commercial Director Sadikin Aksa says the FIFA suspension and COVID-19 pandemic are the main reasons Indonesian clubs have struggled in Asian competitions. He notes that other Southeast Asian clubs did not face these obstacles and were able to continue operating during the pandemic. The league has pledged scheduling and financial support for Indonesian clubs competing in Asia this season.

TNI to Hold Super Garuda Shield 2026 Joint Exercise with US, France, and Others Across Three Islands

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) will conduct the Super Garuda Shield V 2026 multinational joint exercise from late August to mid-September across Java, Sumatra, and Kalimantan. The exercise involves 4,743 personnel from 21 countries and includes new cyber capability and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief components. TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto stated the exercise aims to strengthen diplomacy, interoperability, and capability exchange with partner nations.

Saudi Arabia seeks stronger science and technology cooperation with China

Saudi Arabia's Minister of Communications and Information Technology Abdullah Alswaha has praised China's scientific and technological progress and expressed readiness to expand cooperation with Chinese technology companies. Speaking ahead of the LEAP 2026 technology conference in Riyadh, Alswaha highlighted China's strengths in artificial intelligence, mathematics, and physics. The minister said Saudi Arabia has learned much from China and hopes to continue collaborating with Chinese firms.

Efforts to evacuate orangutan affected by forest and land fire smoke

An adult male orangutan named Sampurna was found weak and unconscious in a palm oil plantation in Ketapang, West Kalimantan, after being displaced by forest and land fires. A joint team from the West Kalimantan BKSDA and Yayasan IAR Indonesia evacuated the animal to a rescue and rehabilitation centre. The orangutan is believed to have suffered respiratory distress from days of exposure to thick smoke.

Asset Forfeiture Bill Applies to Officials, Law Enforcement, Businessmen, and the Public

The proposed Asset Forfeiture Bill is designed as an instrument for asset recovery and crime eradication rather than a political weapon against specific individuals. The legislation aims to target assets derived from 13 categories of crime, ensuring equality before the law regardless of an individual's social or political status.

Bandung tourist trips reach 12 million in first half of 2026

Bandung's Culture and Tourism Office reported approximately 12 million trips to the city in the first half of 2026, indicating high mobility and potential economic impact. The office plans to consolidate data from various transport modes in early September to gain a more comprehensive picture. The resumption of flights at Husein Airport is expected to significantly boost foreign tourist arrivals.

Ministry of Home Affairs Ensures Presidential Aid for NTT Earthquake to be Utilised Immediately

The Indonesian Ministry of Home Affairs is overseeing the rapid deployment of Presidential aid to earthquake-affected regions in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). The Ministry has deployed integrated teams to monitor the use of Unforeseen Expenditure (BTT) funds to ensure they reach remote villages and are managed accountably.

Aid Distributed to Fire Victims in Muara Angke Fishing Village, Infant Needs in Focus

Relief efforts are underway for residents affected by a fire in the Muara Angke fishing village in North Jakarta, with the DPD GNTI Jakarta among the first to deliver aid. While food supplies are flowing, officials have highlighted an urgent need for nappies, milk, and nutrition for babies and breastfeeding mothers in the temporary shelters.

Nepal Flash Floods: 590 Foreign Nationals from 39 Countries Reported Missing

Nepal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reported that approximately 590 foreign nationals from 39 countries remain missing following devastating flash floods in the northern part of the country. Rescue operations have successfully evacuated over 10,000 people, including 323 foreign nationals now receiving medical care. The disaster, triggered by torrential water flows from China into the Bhote Koshi River compounded by earthquake-induced landslides, has prompted ongoing coordination between Nepali authorities and foreign embassies.

National Police Chief Reshuffles Three Strategic Police Chief Posts in Greater Jakarta

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has replaced three police chiefs in the Greater Jakarta area, covering North Jakarta, Tangerang City, and Bekasi. The reshuffle, formalised in a telegram dated 30 August 2026, is part of a broader rotation of senior and mid-ranking officers. Police spokesman Inspector General Johnny Eddizon Isir said the changes reflect organisational dynamics and career development.

'Don't Cry, Mum': Residents of Gambir, Central Jakarta, Devastated as Houses Burn Down

A massive fire in the Gambir area of Central Jakarta has destroyed 114 houses, leaving 880 residents displaced. Emergency services managed to contain the blaze, but many families have lost all their belongings, including vital personal documents.

Partai Ummat Congratulates Gus Kikin on Election as PBNU Chairman

Partai Ummat has congratulated KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz, known as Gus Kikin, on his election as Chairman of the Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU) for the 2026-2031 term. Gus Kikin secured 472 votes, the highest among candidates, through the Ahlul Halli Wal Aqdi mechanism at the 35th NU Congress. The party expressed hope that NU will continue to foster unity and serve the community.

Ajaib to Focus on Developing Human Resources in Indonesia After Securing Rp4.8 Trillion in Funding

Ajaib Group will use a strategic investment of Rp4.8 trillion from SBI Holdings to strengthen its human resources and develop investment products in Indonesia. The company plans to allocate around 90 percent of the funds domestically, focusing on financial education, product development, and talent. The investment comes amid significant growth in Indonesia's capital market investors, which reached 30.30 million as of August 2026.