Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 31 August 2026

Showing 251-300 of 1,481 articles

Gus Kikin Officially Leads PBNU, Cak Imin Urges Adherence to Qonun Asasi

KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz, known as Gus Kikin, has been confirmed as Chairman of the Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU) for the 2026–2031 term at the 35th NU Congress in Jombang, East Java. PKB Chairman Muhaimin Iskandar congratulated him and urged the new leadership to uphold the organisation's Qonun Asasi. Gus Kikin secured the highest support in the candidate selection process with 472 votes.

Fire in Kebon Kelapa, Gambir Successfully Contained, 114 Homes Affected

A major fire in the densely populated area of Jalan Batu Ceper, Kebon Kelapa, Gambir, Central Jakarta, has been successfully contained by the Jakarta Central Fire and Rescue Service. No casualties have been reported, but 114 homes were affected, impacting 310 families or approximately 880 people. Authorities are now focusing on cooling operations and establishing evacuation posts while forensic teams await the all-clear to investigate the cause.

AAJI: Employee benefit strengthens as alternative insurance distribution

The Indonesian Life Insurance Association (AAJI) reports that employee benefit consultants and brokers are emerging as stronger alternative distribution channels, even as direct marketing declines. New business premiums through employee benefit grew 11.4 percent to Rp5.96 trillion in the first half of 2026, while bancassurance remains the dominant channel. The association also highlighted a 6.7 percent contraction in renewal premiums, underscoring the need to balance new customer acquisition with policyholder retention.

Jakarta Information Commission tests transparency of 1,001 public bodies via E-Monev

The Jakarta Information Commission has launched a self-service E-Monev application and begun the 2026 Electronic Monitoring and Evaluation of Public Information Openness, targeting 1,001 public bodies across 22 categories. Officials stressed that the quality of participation, including questionnaire returns and supporting data, matters more than sheer numbers. The evaluation is intended as a continuous instrument to improve public services, with awards for the most transparent bodies planned for December 2026.

Besides Heavier Sentence, Ibam Must Also Pay Rp5 Billion in Restitution in Chromebook Case

The Jakarta High Court has increased the prison sentence of Ibrahim Arief, known as Ibam, from four to five years in the corruption case involving the procurement of Chromebook laptops and Chrome Device Management. The appellate court also ordered him to pay Rp5 billion in restitution, a penalty not imposed at the first-instance level. Prosecutors said they would study the ruling and monitor the case until it has permanent legal force.

Wildfire Smoke Disrupts Flights in West Kalimantan Airport

Wildfire smoke has caused significant flight disruptions at Supadio International Airport in West Kalimantan, with ten flights rescheduled due to reduced visibility. Airport authorities are coordinating with meteorological and disaster agencies to monitor conditions and ensure passenger safety. The incident highlights the recurring impact of forest fires on regional air transport and the need for cross-agency management.

South Kalimantan Police Chief: Peat injection with special liquid significantly reduces haze

South Kalimantan Police Chief Irjen Pol Rosyanto Yudha Hermawan has reported that a peat injection method using a special liquid developed by the regional police forensic laboratory has significantly reduced smoke haze from land fires near Syamsudin Noor International Airport. The technique involves injecting the liquid into peat soil up to two metres deep, effectively extinguishing underground embers and cooling the soil. The police are working to increase production of the liquid, which is claimed to be safe for the soil ecosystem and may even act as a natural fertiliser.

ASUS Business Targets Number One Position in Indonesian B2B Laptop Market by 2026

ASUS Business is aiming to become the leading B2B laptop provider in Indonesia by the end of 2026, driven by consistent market share growth from 6% in 2024 to 18% in the second quarter of 2026. The company is relying on its flagship ExpertBook Ultra, enhanced security features, and comprehensive after-sales services to achieve this goal. ASUS is also focusing on educating the market about the durability and warranty protection of its business laptops.

Yogi Starlink Case: DPR Urges Proportional View on Licensing Issues

The House of Representatives has called for a proportional approach to the case of Yogi Gilang Arya, a Mentawai resident prosecuted for providing Starlink-based internet services without a central government licence. Deputy Chairman of Commission XIII Andreas Hugo Pareira argued that Yogi's initiative to connect remote and disaster-prone areas should be appreciated rather than punished. The case highlights tensions between regulatory compliance and grassroots efforts to bridge the digital divide in Indonesia's outermost regions.

Mining Export Proceeds Relaxation Takes Effect 1 September, Airlangga Sets Sights

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has confirmed that the relaxation of export proceeds (DHE) rules for the mining sector will take effect on 1 September 2026. The government hopes the policy will boost export earnings and will monitor its impact before setting specific targets. Countries eligible for the relaxation are those with existing agreements or investments in the sector, with the possibility of expansion following further evaluation.

Ministry says free nutritious meals programme has reached 10.8 million beneficiaries

Indonesia's Ministry of Population and Family Development reports that the Free Nutritious Meals programme for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers and toddlers has reached 10.8 million beneficiaries as of 18 August 2026. The ministry is strengthening the role of 139,000 Family Support Teams to improve distribution and nutrition education. The programme targets 21 million beneficiaries nationally as part of efforts to reduce stunting.

Indonesia deploys 53 aircraft to fight forest and land fires

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has deployed 53 aircraft and a coordinated ground task force to combat forest and land fires across priority provinces including Riau, Jambi, and South Sumatra. The strategy combines patrols, weather modification, and aerial water bombing with ground operations such as canalisation and borewell construction to improve water access. BNPB is also strengthening surveillance to prevent new fires caused by irresponsible parties.

Series of Volcanic Eruptions in Indonesia Today, from Semeru to Sinabung

Six volcanoes across Indonesia erupted on Monday, 31 August, according to the Centre for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG). Mount Sinabung in North Sumatra was the most significant, prompting authorities to raise its alert status from Level II (Waspada) to Level III (Siaga). The eruptions ranged from minor ash emissions to a substantial 3,500-metre ash column at Sinabung, with exclusion zones and lahar warnings issued for nearby communities.

STIK Lemdiklat Polri postgraduate students distribute aid to NTT earthquake victims

Postgraduate students from the Indonesian National Police's STIK Lemdiklat Polri have delivered essential supplies to communities affected by the 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. The aid, distributed to evacuation posts in Sikka and Palue, includes rice, cooking oil, drinking water, baby formula, instant noodles, and nappies. The initiative aims to ease the burden on survivors, with officials emphasising the importance of mutual assistance given the region's challenging geography for aid distribution.

Kontras Records 387 Arrested and One Dead in 27 August Demonstration

The Advocacy Team for Democracy and Kontras have reported that at least 387 people were victims of arrest and police violence during demonstrations on 27 August 2026, including one elderly man who died. The report details that 322 were arrested during the protest and 65 beforehand, with 22 injured. Kontras also highlighted concerns over short-term enforced disappearances after 11 people were reported missing for over 24 hours before being located at Polda Metro Jaya.

Yemeni Ambassador Meets Megawati to Discuss Middle East Situation

Yemen's Ambassador to Indonesia, Salem Ahmed Abdulrahman Balfakeeh, met with former President Megawati Soekarnoputri in Jakarta to discuss the strong historical ties between the two nations and the current situation in the Middle East. The ambassador highlighted centuries of Yemeni migration to the archipelago and requested Indonesia's support, including the establishment of a consulate in Aden. Megawati pledged to convey the request to PDI-P members in the Indonesian parliament.

Russian Government Provides 350 Scholarships for Indonesian Students (Part 2)

The Russian government is offering approximately 350 scholarships to Indonesian students for study across various levels and disciplines. Russian Ambassador to Indonesia Sergei Tolchenov highlighted education and youth exchange as a highly promising area of bilateral cooperation. The initiative is expected to contribute to the development of the two countries' partnership in the years ahead.

Prabowo Closes 35th NU Congress, Miftachul Akhyar and Gus Kikin Lead PBNU

President Prabowo Subianto officially closed the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress at Bahrul Ulum Islamic Boarding School in Jombang, East Java. The congress elected KH Miftachul Akhyar as Rais Aam and KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz, known as Gus Kikin, as General Chairman of PBNU for the 2026-2031 term. The new leadership is expected to continue NU's service while guiding the organisation through future challenges.

Forest Fire Smoke So Severe It Caused an Orangutan to Collapse

Thick smoke from forest and land fires in Ketapang Regency, West Kalimantan, has caused an adult male orangutan named Sampurna to lose consciousness. The animal was found weak in a community oil palm plantation and received emergency treatment from a joint BKSDA and YIARI team before being evacuated to a rehabilitation centre. Officials have urged the public to report wildlife sightings and avoid handling distressed animals themselves.

Peregrine develops world-class cold storage infrastructure in Indonesia

Peregrine Cold Logistics has entered Indonesia through a joint venture with Sinar Primera to develop international-standard cold storage facilities. The partnership includes acquiring an operational facility in Pluit and developing new land in Narogong. The move aligns with rising demand for modern cold chain infrastructure driven by income growth, urbanisation, and government food security policies.

Health Minister: President approves Rp30 million monthly special allowance for doctors in remote areas

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin announced that President Prabowo Subianto has approved a special allowance of Rp30 million per month for doctors serving in frontier, outermost, and disadvantaged (3T) regions. The government is also discussing a special allowance for dentists with relevant ministries. The policy aims to improve healthcare access in Indonesia's most remote areas.

The Story of Sukabread: Bread Made by Sukamiskin Prisoners Selling Well as Far as Jakarta and BSD

Sukabread, a bakery programme at Sukamiskin Prison in Bandung, produces 70-100 loaves daily and has attracted orders from Jakarta, South Tangerang, and Bandung, with former inmates becoming resellers. The prison is expanding its market to hotels and Whoosh station while tackling the challenge of high staff turnover as trained inmates are released. Officials are also working to overcome the stigma attached to products made inside correctional facilities.

Strategy for Choosing Cheap Flight Tickets Amid Rising Domestic Tourist Numbers

As domestic travel interest rises, Indonesian tourists are becoming increasingly price-sensitive when booking flights. Airpaz's Chief Product Officer notes that significant price differences exist for the same route depending on date and time, making comparison essential for budget-conscious travellers. The platform aims to provide transparent pricing options to help passengers find flights that match their schedules and budgets.

Central Java Sends Five More Trucks of Aid for NTT Earthquake Victims

The Central Java provincial government has dispatched a second batch of humanitarian aid to earthquake victims in East Nusa Tenggara, following directives from Governor Ahmad Luthfi. Five trucks carrying food, clothing, and hygiene supplies will be transported to the national logistics post in Jakarta before distribution to hard-hit areas on Flores Island. The aid effort includes contributions from local governments, community groups, and private companies.

Bahlil Gives Hint on Pertalite Purchase Restrictions for Decile 9-10 Households

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has indicated that plans to restrict subsidised Pertalite fuel sales to households in deciles 9 and 10 are still awaiting data validation. The government aims to ensure subsidies are accurately targeted, with Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa estimating the restriction could save around 10 percent of the energy subsidy budget. The policy is expected to be implemented once all supporting systems are ready.

Defence Minister: Japan's forest fire assistance proves defence cooperation

Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin has highlighted Japan's involvement in tackling forest and land fires as tangible evidence of the two countries' defence cooperation. The assistance, provided under the Indonesia-Japan Defence Cooperation Arrangement, includes three CH-47 Chinook helicopters for firefighting operations. The minister emphasised that the collaboration extends beyond military matters to encompass humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

BPJS Ketenagakerjaan Targets 20 Percent Informal Worker Coverage by End of 2026

BPJS Ketenagakerjaan aims to raise informal worker participation to 20 percent by the end of 2026, up from 17.44 percent as of July. The state social security provider identifies low public literacy about benefits, rather than affordability, as the main challenge. It has introduced a 3R communication strategy—reframe, relevance, and resonance—alongside collaborations with local governments and corporate CSR programmes to expand coverage.

Ahead of IWAPI National Congress, Dewi Motik Backs Both Chair Candidates to Compete Fairly and Democratically

Dewi Motik, founder of the Indonesian Women Entrepreneurs Association (IWAPI), has endorsed both registered candidates for the organisation's next chairperson ahead of its National Congress in November 2026. She confirmed that both Hana Hasanah Fadel Muhammad and Tatyana Sentani Sutara have met all 12 requirements set by the steering committee. Motik also affirmed the validity of a training certificate held by one candidate and called for a fair, peaceful, and democratic congress process.

Russian Ambassador discusses foundations of close relations with Indonesia (Part 1)

Russian Ambassador to Indonesia Sergei Tolchenov highlights the historical roots of the bilateral relationship, noting the Soviet Union's support for Indonesia during its struggle for independence. He explains that the USSR actively pushed the United Nations to urge the Netherlands to halt its military aggression in Indonesia between 1945 and 1950. The interview forms part of a series exploring the cultural ties that bind the two nations.

KPK Team Visits Bima City Government Office at Night, What's Going On?

A Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) team made a late-night working visit to the Bima City Government office in West Nusa Tenggara, prompting public speculation on social media. The city government confirmed the visit was for corruption prevention coaching and evaluation, conducted alongside the Ministry of Home Affairs Inspectorate General, the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK), and the Financial and Development Supervisory Agency (BPKP). The session was attended by senior city officials and members of the Bima City Regional House of Representatives (DPRD).

Ferry Carrying 267 People Capsizes in 514-Metre-Deep Sea Due to Storm

A private ferry named Filojet capsized off the coast of Kyrenia, Northern Cyprus, while carrying 267 people, resulting in at least eight deaths and 18 people missing. Rescue operations involving Turkish and Northern Cypriot coast guard vessels and helicopters saved 241 passengers. The captain and seven crew members have been detained for questioning as investigations continue.

BPDP Showcases Cocoa Downstream Products at JIFHEX 2026

The Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP) introduced downstream cocoa and palm oil products at the Jogja International Food & Horeca Expo (JIFHEX) 2026. The agency highlighted innovations from SMEs such as Afa Cokelat and Smart Batik Indonesia, demonstrating the added value of plantation commodities. BPDP aims to educate the public on the broad potential of downstream processing for palm oil, coconut, and cocoa.

Bahlil: Teluk Bintuni oil and gas facilities successfully protected from forest fires

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has confirmed that oil and gas facilities in Teluk Bintuni, West Papua, including the Tangguh LNG refinery, were successfully protected from forest and land fires. He also reported that energy facilities in Kalimantan remain safe. The National Disaster Management Agency has deployed water-bombing helicopters to support firefighting efforts in the area.

Fire in Kebon Kelapa contained, 114 homes affected

A major fire that swept through a densely populated residential area in Kebon Kelapa, Central Jakarta, has been successfully contained by firefighters. No casualties have been reported, but 114 homes across two neighbourhood units were affected. Authorities are now focusing on cooling operations and will conduct a forensic investigation to determine the cause.

Rais Aam and Chairman Given One Month to Form New PBNU Board

The organising committee of the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress has given the formateur team one month to establish the new executive board of PBNU. Committee chairman Saifullah Yusuf expressed gratitude for the successful congress and dismissed rumours of palace intervention in the leadership selection. He emphasised that the new election mechanism is better suited to current conditions and avoids divisive competition.

KBLI 2025 in OSS Deemed Out of Sync, Business Actors Urged to be Cautious

Business operators are advised to exercise caution due to inconsistencies between the 2025 KBLI nomenclature and the OSS system. It is recommended that companies manually verify their business legality and ensure consistency across all licensing documents during this transition period.

Hanura chairman gives five directives to cadres ahead of 2029 election

Hanura Party chairman Oesman Sapta Odang has issued five directives to party cadres in South Kalimantan as part of preparations for the 2029 general election. The directives emphasise non-partisanship, internal solidarity, active work by officials, serious organisational consolidation, and collective struggle. The messages were delivered during a consolidation and technical meeting in Banjarbaru, which also included a mass walk event.

National Police Chief Appoints Brigadier General Yudo Hermanto as North Sulawesi Police Chief

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has carried out a major rotation within the Indonesian National Police, appointing Brigadier General Yudo Hermanto as the new North Sulawesi Regional Police Chief. The reshuffle also affects the deputy chief and several principal officials within the North Sulawesi Police. The changes are described as part of career development, organisational refreshment, and performance improvement.

Ministry of Youth and Sports needs Rp1.5 trillion to build academy and training centre

The Ministry of Youth and Sports requires Rp1.5 trillion to construct the National Sports Academy and National Team Training Centre, with construction targeted to begin in 2027. Minister Erick Thohir presented the proposal during a working meeting with House Commission X, where the ministry's total proposed budget of Rp4.019 trillion for 2027 was approved pending further review by the Budget Committee. The minister emphasised accountability and the expected public impact of the spending.

Witnesses Describe Children's Trauma After Little Aresha Daycare Abuse: Fear of Water

Parents testified in the Yogyakarta District Court about the lasting trauma their children suffered after attending Little Aresha daycare, including a fear of water and physical injuries such as bleeding from the ear. The hearing also covered the daycare's fees, with parents paying Rp 1.1 million per month in 2026, and revealed that payments were sometimes directed to bank accounts other than the foundation chairwoman's.

Indonesia's firefighting efforts hit by fires in national parks

Indonesia's Environment and Forestry Ministry has announced temporary closures and limited access to several national parks and conservation areas due to high fire risk. The move aims to protect visitors and keep firefighting resources focused on six priority provinces, where water-bombing helicopters have been diverted to tackle fires in parks such as Bromo Tengger Semeru and Mount Leuser. Authorities stressed the closures are for safety and to prevent further strain on forest and land fire operations.

Road Barriers in Mataram Dismantled by Residents, Traffic Jams and Commuter Complaints

Residents of Rembiga, Mataram, forcibly removed traffic barriers at the Rembiga intersection, leading to severe congestion and commuter frustration. The barriers had been installed by the Mataram Transport Agency as part of a traffic management trial that many road users found effective. The local government is now gathering feedback to find a resolution, as some traders claim the scheme reduced their daily turnover.

Economist says Danantara's contribution to state budget could reduce debt needs

CORE economist Yusuf Rendy Manilet says the Rp120 trillion contribution from Danantara to the state budget could significantly lower government financing needs if not offset by new spending. He cautions that the benefits depend on how the funds are used and highlights concerns about transparency and Danantara's credibility as a long-term investment manager.

Fire in Gambir, Central Jakarta: 114 Homes Destroyed, 880 People Affected

A major fire swept through a densely populated settlement in Gambir, Central Jakarta, destroying 114 homes and affecting 880 residents. Firefighters faced significant challenges due to the density of the housing and the distance to water sources. No fatalities were reported, though two firefighters required medical attention.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Wiyagus Urges Use of Human Capital Index as Guideline for Regional Development Planning

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Akhmad Wiyagus has called for the Human Capital Index (IMM) to be adopted as a key instrument in regional development planning. Speaking at the launch of the 2025 IMM figures, he stressed that integrating the index into planning documents would help improve human resource quality and narrow development disparities between regions. The initiative is intended to support the national goal of Indonesia Emas 2045.

100 GWp solar power programme could create 5.52 million jobs

Indonesia's 100 gigawatt peak (GWp) solar power programme is projected to require around Rp1,140 trillion in investment and create approximately 5.52 million jobs. The initiative, launched by President Prabowo Subianto, is framed as a key step towards national energy self-sufficiency and economic strengthening. It is also expected to save up to Rp73.9 trillion annually and cut emissions by about 140 million tonnes of CO2.

Ahead of National Customer Day, PLN Yogyakarta Invites Electric Motorcycle Community to Support Green Mobility

PT PLN (Persero) Yogyakarta distribution unit partnered with the Kosmik electric motorcycle community for the Electric City Ride Jogja 2026, drawing around 45 participants. The event aimed to strengthen the electric vehicle ecosystem and promote environmentally friendly mobility ahead of National Customer Day 2026. PLN highlighted its commitment to expanding charging infrastructure and digital services to support the transition to electric vehicles.

Report Withdrawn: What Is Ruben Onsu's Fate in Fraud Case?

The fraud and embezzlement report against celebrity Ruben Onsu at the South Jakarta Metro Police has been withdrawn. Police will now facilitate restorative justice between the complainant and Onsu, followed by a case review to terminate the investigation. If both parties reach a peace agreement, the investigation will be formally closed and Onsu's suspect status will lapse by operation of law.

Qodari: Food sovereignty achieved, Indonesia makes first rice export to Malaysia

Indonesia has exported its first shipment of premium rice to Malaysia, signalling progress towards food sovereignty. Head of the Government Communication Body Muhammad Qodari said the initial 1,000-tonne export could expand to 200,000 tonnes, worth up to Rp3.4 trillion. He stressed that domestic supply remains secure, with national rice stocks sufficient until May 2027.

National Police Chief Transfers Brigadier General Hengki Haryadi to Lead Southwest Papua Regional Police

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has carried out a large-scale rotation and transfer involving 344 personnel, including the appointment of Brigadier General Hengki Haryadi as the new Chief of the Southwest Papua Regional Police. Hengki, previously Deputy Chief of the Riau Regional Police, is known for his firm stance against thuggery, notably the arrest of preman figure Hercules. The reshuffle also affects key positions at Police Headquarters and other regional police commands.