Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 3 August 2026

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Makassar Tawarkan Peluang Investasi dengan Dukungan ALKI II

Pemerintah Kota Makassar memaparkan potensi investasi strategisnya dengan memanfaatkan posisi di jalur ALKI II serta infrastruktur internasional seperti pelabuhan dan bandara. Wali Kota Munafri Arifuddin menyoroti pertumbuhan ekonomi, kemudahan perizinan, dan tata kelola smart city sebagai daya tarik utama bagi investor. Sektor pariwisata, industri di KIMA, perikanan, dan pertanian menjadi fokus penawaran dalam forum yang dihadiri para pengusaha nasional tersebut.

Farmers Protest Alleged Criminalisation at Central Java Police Headquarters

Members of the Kawulo Alit Mandiri Farmers Group staged a protest at the Central Java Police Headquarters in Semarang, demanding an end to the criminal investigation of two farmers involved in a land dispute. The farmers' legal team argues the case represents the criminalisation of smallholders amid a broader agrarian conflict. The demonstrators called for a just resolution to the land conflict rather than pursuing criminal charges against the farmers.

Golkar Clarifies: Arrested Pemalang Regent is Not a Party Cadre

Golkar Party Secretary General Sarmuji has clarified that the recently arrested Regent of Pemalang, Anom Widiyantoro, is not a party cadre but a professional who was endorsed by the party. The clarification follows a Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) sting operation that resulted in the arrest of the regent and several others for alleged extortion. The KPK seized a total of Rp2.7 billion in evidence related to the case.

Flooding Submerges Bogor Road After Heavy Rain, Causing Traffic Jams

Heavy rainfall caused flooding on Jalan Raya Kapten Yusuf, a main road on the border of Bogor City and Bogor Regency, leading to significant traffic congestion. The area, located between South Bogor District and Ciomas, is reportedly prone to flooding during heavy downpours. Local disaster management officials noted the flooding was likely a surface water issue, with no immediate reports of structural damage.

After a Decade, Kampung Pasir Residents Finally Have a Musholla Again for Tarawih Prayers

Residents of Kampung Pasir in Bogor can once again perform congregational Tarawih prayers in their own village after a 10-year hiatus, following the collapse of their previous musholla in 2016. The new 'Musholla Presisi' is being built on waqf land as part of a social initiative facilitated by the Indonesian National Police Chief and the Masyarakat Pecinta Polisi Indonesia. The community expressed deep gratitude, noting they previously had to travel far to other villages for prayers during Ramadan.

BPS Links Rise in Bali Hotel Occupancy to Improved Quality of Tourists

The Central Statistics Agency (BPS) of Bali has attributed the increase in star-rated hotel occupancy rates in June 2026 to a rise in the quality of foreign tourists, despite a slight decline in overall arrivals. The occupancy rate for five-star hotels led the increase, while the Bali Tourism Office is focusing promotional efforts on quality tourists from the Asia-Pacific region, particularly South Korea and Japan, through wellness tourism packages.

Automotive Tool Brand Tekiro Secures Guinness World Record

Indonesian automotive tool brand Tekiro has been recognised by Guinness World Records for hosting the largest automotive mechanic competition. The 2026 event involved over 89,000 students from 544 vocational high schools across the country. The company stated the competition aims to test participants' technical skills against international standards and support the development of Indonesia's automotive workforce.

Israel Exploits Ceuta Crisis to Target Spain Over Pro-Palestine Stance

A surge in migration to the Spanish enclave of Ceuta has been exploited by pro-Israel accounts to launch a digital influence campaign against Madrid. Analysts found that the humanitarian crisis was reframed online to attack Spain's foreign policy, particularly its criticism of Israel. The campaign sought to amplify domestic divisions by shifting the debate towards migration and security failures.

Iran Denies Negotiating with US, Trump Furious and Issues Ultimatum

US President Donald Trump has reacted angrily to Iran's denial of direct negotiations, threatening to maintain a military blockade until a deal is reached or Iran surrenders. Iran clarified it is only in talks with Oman regarding safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, insisting the situation will not change while US aggression continues.

Crude Oil Theft Attempt on Pertamina Pipeline in Jambi City Foiled, Suspect Flees

An attempt to illegally tap a Pertamina crude oil transmission pipeline in the middle of Jambi City was thwarted on Monday. The suspect, believed to be a repeat offender, fled the scene after causing a significant oil spill that spread into city drainage systems. Authorities and Pertamina technical teams managed to stop the leak and are conducting an investigation.

Sleman Regency Supports Dragbike Championship to Boost Local Economy

The Sleman Regency Government is backing a dragbike championship in Minggir to stimulate the local economy and curb illegal street racing. The event, part of a broader sport tourism agenda, is expected to benefit local MSMEs and culinary vendors. Organisers are working with security forces to ensure safety on the public road circuit.

Team 9 Urged to Identify Owner of Rp 476 Billion and 74 kg of Gold Found at Febrie Adriansyah's Residence

Anti-corruption activist Iqbal Hutapea has called on the Attorney General's Office's 'Team 9' to clarify the ownership of Rp 476 billion in cash and 74 kilograms of gold bars seized from the home of former junior attorney general for special crimes, Febrie Adriansyah. The public is demanding transparency regarding the massive asset discovery, which has led to Febrie being named a suspect in a money laundering case. The investigation is also linked to other corruption cases involving the former official, including alleged graft at PT Krakatau Steel and a coal procurement scandal at PLN.

GMR values direct flight access as opening economic opportunities for Indonesia-India

India's GMR Group believes direct flight connectivity between Indonesia and India will significantly strengthen bilateral ties by boosting economic and tourism flows. The company is developing Bhogapuram International Airport, slated to open in August 2026, as a major gateway on India's east coast. Indonesia is a priority market for the new airport's international route network, alongside Vietnam, the Philippines, and Greece.

Industrial Estate Entrepreneurs Submit Investment Acceleration Recommendations to Prabowo

The Indonesian Industrial Estates Association (HKI) has proposed a series of strategic measures to President Prabowo Subianto aimed at accelerating national investment realisation. The recommendations, drawn from the direct experience of industrial estate managers, focus on regulatory harmonisation, licensing speed, and infrastructure certainty. HKI warns that without addressing these bottlenecks, Indonesia risks losing its competitive edge in attracting global investment despite its large domestic market and natural resource advantages.

Prabowo welcomes Indonesia-Thailand private sector investment cooperation

President Prabowo Subianto has endorsed a series of private sector agreements between Indonesia and Thailand, including ventures in tourism and organic waste processing. The bilateral meeting also produced a new Strategic Partnership Roadmap for 2026โ€“2030 and an education MoU. The initiatives aim to boost connectivity, tourist flows, and sustainable development investment.

Government Promotes Downstream Investment to Generate New Employment

The Indonesian government is intensifying its downstream industrial policy to boost the value of natural resources and create widespread employment. President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised the need to process raw materials domestically, inviting both local and foreign investment into sectors like mining, agriculture, and fisheries. The strategy aims to generate a multiplier effect through industrial development, infrastructure support, and vocational training to strengthen the national economy.

OIKN Collaborates with PNM to Boost Local Economy in Nusantara Capital Area

The Nusantara Capital Authority (OIKN) has partnered with state-owned financing firm PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) to empower local micro and ultra-micro enterprises. The collaboration aims to reduce poverty and strengthen the economic capacity of communities in the delineated IKN area, particularly in Penajam Paser Utara and Kutai Kartanegara. PNM will provide financing and mentoring, targeting the inclusion of local businesses in the new capital's economic ecosystem.

DPR: Prabowo's Korea dialogue initiative aligns with free and active foreign policy

A senior Indonesian lawmaker has endorsed President Prabowo Subianto's proposal to mediate dialogue between South and North Korea, stating it reflects Indonesia's commitment to global peace. Dave Laksono of the DPR emphasised that such a role must be based on official requests and uphold the principles of national interest and state sovereignty. The initiative follows a reported request from the South Korean President for Indonesia to help open communication channels with Pyongyang.

Broken Bridge in West Lombok Remains Unrepaired, Vehicles Forced to Use Makeshift Crossing

A bridge in Sekotong Timur Village, West Lombok, which collapsed during floods in February 2026, remains unrepaired, forcing residents and even ambulances to risk crossing a makeshift wooden structure. The local government has allocated a budget of Rp 2 billion for the reconstruction, with the Public Works Department indicating that the project is currently in the tender process and construction is targeted to begin this month.

Indonesia and Thailand Push for Peace in Myanmar via Five-Point Consensus

Indonesia and Thailand have pledged to jointly encourage ASEAN to play a constructive role in achieving sustainable peace in Myanmar. President Prabowo Subianto and Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul agreed to support the implementation of the Five-Point Consensus, calling for an end to violence and improved humanitarian access. The two leaders also discussed the Middle East, emphasising the need for diplomatic solutions and respect for international law.

Toyota Astra Motor Introduces Ninth-Generation Hilux

PT Toyota Astra Motor has launched the ninth-generation Hilux in Indonesia, targeting the commercial vehicle market with enhanced durability and modern features. The new model boasts a redesigned exterior, improved engine performance, and advanced safety technologies. This introduction aims to strengthen Toyota's position in the operational vehicle segment.

Content Creator Secretly Recording SPG Sparks Outrage, Habiburokhman Urges Victims to Report to Police

A content creator is facing public backlash after secretly recording female promotional staff at an automotive exhibition for a video on 'how to approach women'. House of Representatives Commission III member Habiburokhman has condemned the act as unethical and illegal, urging the victims to file a police report. He cited potential violations of copyright, sexual violence, and electronic information laws.

West Jakarta PPAPP Sub-agency promotes Population Alert Schools

The West Jakarta PPAPP Sub-agency has launched a socialisation programme for Population Alert Schools (SSK) at MTsN 8 Jakarta, targeting madrasah heads across the municipality. The initiative aims to integrate population education, family planning, and family development into the school curriculum. The programme is designed to equip students with life planning skills from an early age to support the national vision of Indonesia Emas 2045.

NTB targets 140,000 spectators for Mandalika MotoGP

The West Nusa Tenggara provincial government is aiming to attract 140,000 spectators to the 2026 MotoGP event at the Mandalika Circuit, building on a trend of rising attendance. Officials plan to boost digital ticket sales and enhance promotional efforts across mass media, social media, and influencers to achieve the target. The event, scheduled for 9-11 October 2026, is expected to draw 65,000 attendees on race day alone.

Prabowo to Thai PM: Our Relationship Greatly Influences Southeast Asia

President Prabowo Subianto emphasised the significant influence of Indonesia-Thailand relations on Southeast Asia during a meeting with Thai PM Anutin Charnvirakul in Jakarta. The leaders, representing ASEAN's two largest economies and founding members, discussed deepening cooperation on transnational crime, including online scams, and agreed to strengthen ASEAN's resilience amid global uncertainty.

Bulog: Margin increase to 7 percent, President's support to safeguard self-sufficiency

State logistics agency Bulog has confirmed that the increase in its margin fee to 7 percent, or Rp970 per kilogramme of rice, represents government recognition of its role in managing national rice reserves. The policy, formalised in a National Food Agency regulation, is intended to strengthen Bulog's financial capacity and support sustainable food self-sufficiency. Bulog also benefits from a reduction in bank loan interest rates from 8 to 5 percent, with the government subsidising 2 percent of the cost.

Turkiye Says Israel's Attacks Sabotage Gaza Peace Efforts

Turkiye has accused Israel of deliberately sabotaging diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza, citing recent attacks on civilians and health infrastructure. The condemnation comes amid ongoing international initiatives, including a US-proposed peace plan involving the disarmament of Hamas and the delivery of humanitarian aid.

Indonesia and Thailand Sign Strategic Partnership Roadmap and Education MOU

Indonesia and Thailand have solidified bilateral ties by signing a strategic partnership roadmap for 2026-2030 and a memorandum of understanding on educational cooperation. The agreements were formalised during Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's state visit to Jakarta, where both leaders also discussed regional issues including the Myanmar crisis and Middle East conflicts. The partnership aims to enhance collaboration across government and private sectors, including tourism and waste management.

Purbaya confirms no further debate on SAL withdrawal from banks

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that the debate over withdrawing the Excess Budget Balance (SAL) from state-owned banks is resolved, following a consensus reached by the Financial System Stability Committee (KSSK) that prioritises maintaining banking liquidity. The government will coordinate closely with Bank Indonesia and the Financial Services Authority (OJK) on the timing and volume of any withdrawals. OJK noted that banks have prepared their liquidity positions and expects any withdrawal to be well-planned to mitigate potential disruption.

High School Student in Bontang Arrested as Meth Courier, Police Hunt Supplier

Police in Bontang, East Kalimantan, have arrested a 17-year-old high school student for acting as a courier in a methamphetamine distribution network. The arrest led officers to an 18-year-old dealer, MFS, from whom they seized additional drugs and drug paraphernalia. Authorities are now pursuing a third suspect, identified as M, who is believed to be the main supplier and remains at large.

Indonesia, Thailand Target US$20 Billion Trade by 2030

Indonesia and Thailand have adopted a new strategic partnership roadmap aiming to boost bilateral trade to US$20 billion by 2030. The agreement, announced during Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's visit to Jakarta, includes establishing a Joint Trade Commission and enhancing cooperation in energy, digital economy, and halal value chains. The initiative marks a significant deepening of economic ties between Southeast Asia's two largest economies.

Mineral Exports at Risk of Disruption, Government to Finalise Rare Earth Regulations

The Indonesian government is moving to clarify regulations on the export of minerals containing rare earth elements to prevent potential disruptions. Officials have assured that exports will continue as long as rare earths are not the primary product, providing much-needed certainty for downstream investors. The new rules aim to balance encouraging domestic processing with maintaining export revenue.

AGO's Team 9 Urged to Investigate Owner of Cash and Gold Found at Ex-Jampidsus's Home

Anti-corruption activists are pressing the Attorney General's Office's Team 9 to fully disclose the owner of Rp476 billion in cash and 74 kg of gold bars seized from the residence of former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah. The public is demanding transparency and legal certainty regarding the massive assets, which Febrie claims belong to an unnamed individual. The Corruption Eradication Commission suspects the Sentul property was held under a nominee, which explains its absence from Febrie's official wealth report.

Bromo Access Partially Closed Due to Bantengan Block Forest Fire

Authorities have closed several access points to Mount Bromo in East Java following a forest fire in the Bantengan Block. The closure, effective immediately, aims to facilitate firefighting efforts and ensure visitor safety. Tourists can still enter via Probolinggo and Pasuruan but are restricted from the Savana area.

South Kalimantan Residents Sue PLN Over Prolonged Power Crisis

Residents of South Kalimantan, represented by LBH Borneo Nusantara and the Banjarmasin City Forum (FORKOT), have filed a lawsuit against state electricity company PLN at the Banjarmasin Administrative Court. The legal action addresses the prolonged and recurring blackouts that have disrupted economic activity, public services, and damaged electronic equipment. The plaintiffs argue the crisis reflects a failure in public service governance and are seeking legal certainty, while PLN targets a resolution by the end of August.

A Time Will Come When Roads, Mosques, and Even Places of Sin Will Testify About Our Deeds

A reflection on the Islamic concept of the Day of Judgement highlights a future where the Earth itself will bear witness to every human action. Drawing from the Quran and a hadith narrated by the Prophet Muhammad, the article explains that roads, homes, and even places of vice will speak of the deeds performed upon them. This testimony will leave individuals with no defence, as all worldly status and wealth will be rendered meaningless before divine judgement.

Culture Ministry Launches GBN to Nurture National Musical Talent

The Ministry of Culture has introduced the 'Gita Bahana Nusantara' (GBN) programme to develop young musical talent from across Indonesia. A total of 183 participants, including choir singers and orchestral musicians selected nationally, will undergo intensive training ahead of a performance at the 81st Independence Day ceremony. The initiative aims to foster unity and showcase the nation's cultural diversity as a source of strength and harmony.

Deputy Minister: PPAT Exam an Effort to Provide Good Service

The Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning is conducting the 2026 Land Deed Official (PPAT) examination to ensure the public receives high-quality land services. A total of 7,886 candidates have registered for the exam, which will be held in three locations across Indonesia. The ministry emphasises that improving the quality of human resources is as crucial as good regulation and technology in delivering land services.

Indonesia and Thailand Strengthen Strategic Partnership Through Bilateral Meeting

President Prabowo Subianto hosted Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul for a state visit at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta. The leaders focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, food security, and people-to-people ties. The meeting also aimed to reinforce ASEAN stability and address regional strategic issues.

Immigration Summons US National Promoting Sale of 54-Are Plot in Kintamani

The Denpasar Immigration Office has summoned a United States citizen, identified as SR, for allegedly promoting the sale of a 54-are plot of land in Kintamani, Bali, an activity that went viral on social media. The foreign national failed to attend the first summons and is suspected of misusing his investor limited stay permit, which is registered to a company in a different jurisdiction. Authorities are coordinating with the Ngurah Rai Immigration Office to investigate the potential violation of his residency conditions.

Workers Urge DPR to Take Labour Bill Seriously

Indonesian labour unions have called on the House of Representatives (DPR) to demonstrate genuine commitment in deliberating the Labour Bill. They warned against repeating the contentious process that surrounded the Omnibus Law on Job Creation, which sparked widespread protests. The unions welcomed the DPR's openness to dialogue but stressed the need for legislation that benefits all stakeholders.

NTB Provincial Government Dredges 11 Km of Drainage Sedimentation on Suela-Sembalun Road

The West Nusa Tenggara provincial government is clearing sediment from drainage channels and culverts along an 11.6-kilometre stretch of the Suela-Sembalun road in East Lombok. The maintenance work, which began in mid-July 2026, aims to prevent flooding that regularly occurs during heavy rain in the tourist area. Officials expect the drainage system to function optimally once the project is completed this week, enhancing safety for road users.

East Jakarta Firefighter's Last Message to Wife Before Perishing in Illegal Dumpsite Blaze

Linda, the wife of firefighter Andriyono, has revealed his final request for her to stay home and care for their children on the morning he died battling a fire at an illegal temporary disposal site in Kramat Jati, East Jakarta. Andriyono collapsed during the firefighting operation on Saturday and was later pronounced dead at Harapan Bunda Hospital. The grieving widow recounted his premonition-like plea two months earlier, asking her not to remarry and to look after their three children.

Said Aldi Al Idrus Backs AMPI to Hold National Leadership Meeting and 10th National Congress

Golkar Party's Youth and Sports Head, Said Aldi Al Idrus, has endorsed the Acting Chairman of AMPI, Mafa Uswanas, to proceed with the organisation's National Leadership Meeting and 10th National Congress. The endorsement follows a recent expanded plenary meeting deemed legitimate under the organisation's constitution. The move aims to accelerate internal consolidation and ensure democratic continuity within the youth wing of the Golkar Party.

NU Care-Lazisnu Partners with Paragon to Restore Islamic Boarding Schools and Mosques in Aceh and Sumatra

NU Care-Lazisnu, the philanthropic arm of Nahdlatul Ulama, has joined forces with PT Paragon Technology and Innovation to deliver humanitarian aid to flood-affected communities in Aceh and West Sumatra. The initiative focuses on rehabilitating damaged Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) and places of worship to restore educational and religious activities. Aid distribution, which began in May and runs until August 2026, includes building renovations and the provision of school and prayer equipment.

AGO's Team 9 Raids Six South Jakarta Locations in Febrie Adriansyah Case, Including Don Ritto's Office

Investigators from the Attorney General's Office have raided six locations in South Jakarta and Depok as part of a money laundering probe involving former Jampidsus official Febrie Adriansyah. The searches targeted the office of suspect and lawyer Don Ritto, the home of suspect Nurman Herin, and four companies suspected of links to the case. The investigation concerns the alleged laundering of 74 kilograms of gold and Rp543 billion in cash.

ATR/BPN Ministry Issues 124,000 Home Certificate Decrees for Low-Income Families

The Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) has issued 124,000 certificate decrees for low-income community (MBR) homes, part of a target to provide one million free certificates this year. Minister Nusron Wahid stated that 83,000 of these have already been converted into land books within a month. The programme specifically targets MBR homes, distinct from the area-based Complete Systematic Land Registration (PTSL) scheme.

KPK Issues Six SP3s, Including Cases of Deceased Suspects and Won Pretrial Motions

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has issued six investigation termination warrants (SP3s) up to mid-2026, citing the death of suspects and successful pretrial motions. The cases involve former officials such as ex-Banjarnegara Regent Budhi Sarwono and former House Secretary-General Indra Iskandar. The KPK Supervisory Board has noted delays in reporting some of these terminations, urging improved timeliness to ensure legal certainty.

President Prabowo and Thai PM strengthen ASEAN strategic partnership

President Prabowo Subianto and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul have reaffirmed their commitment to bolstering the strategic partnership between Indonesia and Thailand. The two leaders, representing the largest economies in ASEAN, discussed comprehensive bilateral, regional, and global issues. They emphasised the importance of concrete cooperation to deliver tangible benefits for their people and maintain regional stability amid global uncertainty.

Concerned Over Graduates' Job Struggles, This Vocational School Adds Entrepreneurship to Its Curriculum

A Jakarta vocational school has integrated entrepreneurship into its curriculum to address the difficulty its students face in finding employment. The programme, supported by the Indonesian Indigenous Entrepreneurs Association (Asprindo), trains students to create marketable products from local materials like wood, bamboo, and rattan. The initiative aims to equip graduates with the skills to start their own businesses and create jobs for others.