Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 3 August 2026

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Jakarta Government to Shut Down Illegal Dumpsite Where Firefighter Died

The Jakarta provincial government will close an illegal dumpsite in Kramat Jati, East Jakarta, following a fire that claimed the life of a firefighter. Authorities plan to clear the waste in stages and will tighten surveillance to prevent further illegal dumping, with strict sanctions for violators. The operation comes as the city continues to enforce a gubernatorial instruction promoting waste sorting and reducing reliance on the Bantargebang landfill.

SAR Team Recovers Body of Drowning Victim in West Flood Canal

A joint search and rescue team has recovered the body of a 19-year-old man who was swept away and drowned in the Banjir Kanal Barat canal in West Jakarta. The victim, identified as M. Tomul Adi Kurniawan, was found floating near the Season City area, approximately 1.5 kilometres from where he was last seen. The operation involved multiple agencies, including the Jakarta SAR Office, firefighters, and local volunteers, and was officially concluded following the handover of the body to the family.

New Billionaires Emerge, No Longer Primarily Through Inheritance

A new analysis reveals a significant shift in the source of global billionaire wealth, with a growing share now derived from building competitive businesses rather than inheritance or political connections. For the first time, roughly half of billionaire wealth is considered to have been earned relatively fairly, as fortunes from oligarchs and inherited wealth decline. The trend is driven by entrepreneurs in sectors like technology, finance, and consumer goods who have created value by selling products and services to the public.

Indonesia probes Java Sea ferry fire that killed five

Indonesian authorities have launched an investigation into a fatal ferry fire off the coast of East Java that claimed five lives. Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono stated the probe will examine the vessel's technical condition and crew readiness, while pledging stricter safety enforcement and fleet modernisation. The incident has renewed scrutiny on maritime safety standards across the archipelagic nation, where ferries are a vital transport link.

Mount Semeru Erupts Five Times This Morning

Mount Semeru, located on the border of Lumajang and Malang regencies in East Java, experienced five eruptions on Monday morning, with ash columns reaching up to 700 metres. Authorities have maintained the volcano's alert status at Level III and have warned residents to avoid activities near the crater and along specific river channels due to the threat of hot clouds and lava flows.

Mountain Pass on China-India Border Reopens

The Nathu La pass, a high-altitude trade route between China's Xizang Autonomous Region and India's Sikkim state, has resumed operations after a temporary closure since 2020. The reopening is expected to revitalise cross-border commerce, which previously exceeded 73 million yuan in trade value in 2019. This move aligns with China's broader plan to expand border trade by opening 12 new locations in Xizang this year.

VKTR Sales Surge 56% to Rp647 Billion in First Half of 2026

PT VKTR Teknologi Mobilitas Tbk, a pioneer in Indonesia's commercial electric vehicle sector, reported a 56% year-on-year jump in net sales to Rp647 billion for the first half of 2026. The company's operating profit soared 1,890% to Rp16 billion, driven by rising adoption of low-emission transport and a recovery in the national automotive industry. VKTR's management expressed optimism that the growing maturity of the domestic electric vehicle ecosystem will sustain this positive momentum.

Government Holds Electricity Tariffs Steady for Q3 2026 to Support Economic Stability

The Indonesian government has decided to keep electricity tariffs unchanged for the third quarter of 2026, covering both 13 non-subsidised and 24 subsidised customer groups. Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stated the decision aims to maintain public purchasing power and national economic stability. The tariffs, which remain based on the April-June 2026 period parameters, are detailed for various customer categories ranging from small households to large industries.

Trump Says Talks with Iran to Begin Monday, Expresses Confidence in Deal

US President Donald Trump announced that negotiations with Iran are set to commence on Monday, expressing optimism that a deal concerning the Strait of Hormuz and Tehran's nuclear programme can be reached swiftly. He stated that a planned large-scale military operation was called off after requests from Iran and regional allies. Trump emphasised a preference for a diplomatic resolution but maintained that military options remain on the table.

Complete Gold Price List for Three Brands at Pegadaian on Monday

Pegadaian's gold prices on Monday morning showed Galeri24 at Rp2,573,000 per gram, Antam at Rp2,715,000, and UBS at Rp2,586,000. The state-owned pawnbroker offers these gold products in various weights, ranging from 0.5 grams up to 1 kilogram for Antam and Galeri24, and up to 500 grams for UBS. Prices are subject to change at any time.

OJK Chief: Indonesia's Sharia Capital Market Cap Reaches IDR 5,362 Trillion

Indonesia's sharia capital market has shown encouraging growth, with market capitalisation reaching IDR 5,362 trillion, representing nearly half of the total market cap. The Financial Services Authority (OJK) highlighted solid growth across sharia stocks, sukuk, and mutual funds, alongside a rising number of sharia investors. However, the OJK chief stressed that bridging the gap between the financial sector and the real economy remains a key challenge for Indonesia to become a global leader in sharia economics.

BNPP Affirms 2026 IPKP Results as Basis for Accelerated Border Development

Indonesia's National Border Management Agency (BNPP) has presented the results of its 2026 Border Management Index (IPKP) assessment, which scored 0.58, nearing the national target. The agency is urging ministries to use these findings as a foundation for integrated policy-making and to accelerate development in border regions. The results are also being proposed for inclusion in the President's upcoming state address to underscore the government's commitment.

Man Allegedly Hacks Partner to Death in Malaka, NTT, Over Land Certificate Dispute

A domestic dispute over a land certificate in Malaka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, turned fatal when a man allegedly killed his partner with a machete. The suspect, Bernabas Bria, reportedly attacked Theresia Balok repeatedly in the head after an argument escalated. Police are investigating the case, which has highlighted a history of domestic violence between the couple, who were not legally married but had three children together.

UK, Bulgaria, and Ukraine Assure Iran They Will Not Participate in Military Action

Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman announced that the United Kingdom, Bulgaria, and Ukraine have assured Tehran they will not take part in any military action against the country. The assurances come amid renewed hostilities, with the United States launching attacks on Iran since 8 July, which Washington claims are in retaliation for Iranian actions against commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has accused the US of violating a June memorandum intended to end the conflict that began in February.

House Commission III Pushes Forward with Asset Forfeiture Bill Discussions During Recess

House Commission III is accelerating deliberations on the Asset Forfeiture Bill, holding a public hearing with senior lawyers during the parliamentary recess. Chairman Habiburokhman stated the commission is currently drafting the legislation and has gathered public input from three provinces. The bill aims to strengthen legal mechanisms for recovering assets linked to criminal activity.

Iran Denies Asking US to Halt Attack, Says No Deal on Hormuz Strait

Iran has rejected claims by US President Donald Trump that Tehran requested a halt to planned military strikes, dismissing the assertion as a lie. Iranian officials also denied any agreement has been reached to reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz, stating the waterway will remain closed as long as Washington continues hostile actions.

DPR Member Urges Firm Action Against Alleged Use of Children in Vape Promotions

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called on law enforcement to thoroughly investigate and take firm legal action against the alleged exploitation of children in e-cigarette promotions. The legislator stressed that children must not be used as commercial objects for addictive products and urged digital platforms, parents, and the community to strengthen oversight. He also emphasised the need to enhance digital literacy and legal enforcement to protect minors from harmful exposure in the digital space.

Four Road Project Workers Identified as Victims of Armed Criminal Group Attack in Tolikara

Authorities have identified four of the five victims killed in an attack by an armed criminal group (KKB) on a road project camp in Tolikara, Papua Pegunungan. The attack occurred on Sunday night at the PT SHJ camp in Woniki District, where workers were resting. The Indonesian Military (TNI) and Police are currently pursuing the perpetrators to restore security in the region.

HKI Formulates Solutions to Accelerate Investment

The Indonesian Industrial Estates Association (HKI) has proposed strategic solutions to speed up national investment realisation and enhance the competitiveness of industrial zones. The recommendations, resulting from HKI's 25th National Working Meeting, focus on regulatory harmonisation, licensing acceleration, and infrastructure reliability. HKI aims to partner with the government to ensure committed investments are promptly realised for maximum public benefit.

OPEC+ Agrees to Raise Oil Production Quota in September

Seven OPEC+ nations have agreed to increase their maximum oil production by 188,000 barrels per day in September, marking the sixth consecutive month of output hikes. The decision, reached during a virtual meeting, involves a gradual unwinding of voluntary production cuts first announced in April 2023.

Angering the Mayor: The 10 Trees in Front of the Padel Court Before They Were Felled

The manager of a newly built padel court in Bandung faces a summons after the unauthorised felling of ten trees on a public pavement provoked the fury of Mayor Muhammad Farhan. The mayor has pledged to escalate the matter to the governor, citing a moratorium on tree cutting and the potential for serious legal consequences. The trees, which once provided shade for street vendors and the homeless, were documented by Google Earth as recently as August 2024.

Xenia Plunges into Dlingo Ravine in Bantul After Driver Dazzled by Headlights

A Daihatsu Xenia veered off the road and fell into a three-metre-deep ravine in Dlingo, Bantul, in the early hours of Sunday. The driver lost control after being dazzled by the headlights of a vehicle behind him. Three passengers sustained minor injuries, while the driver was unharmed.

Governor Andra Declares Banten a Forest Fire Red Zone, Urges All Parties to Remain Vigilant

Banten Governor Andra Soni has declared the province a high-risk red zone for forest and land fires following warnings of a prolonged dry season. He called for collaborative prevention and mitigation efforts from all government and security agencies. The governor stressed the need to minimise potential impacts on public health, the environment, and the local economy.

Pertamina's Rumah BUMN Expands Market Access and Digitalisation for SMEs in Central Sulawesi

PT Pertamina (Persero) is strengthening its support for local small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Central Sulawesi through its Rumah BUMN programme. The initiative focuses on expanding market access and encouraging digital transactions, including the use of QRIS. The programme aligns with the government's Astacita vision for inclusive economic growth.

Palm Oil Farmers Report to Prabowo: B50 Has Not Boosted Fresh Fruit Bunch Prices

The Indonesian Palm Oil Farmers Association (APKASINDO) has reported to President Prabowo that the B50 biodiesel mandate has yet to deliver higher fresh fruit bunch (FFB) prices for smallholders. Despite the policy's implementation, global crude palm oil (CPO) prices have continued to decline, leaving independent farmers particularly vulnerable. The association is urging the government to strengthen oversight and enforce mandatory partnerships between mills and smallholders.

Egypt Rocked by M5.5 Quake: Health Minister Orders Full Emergency Response Activation

A magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck northern Egypt early Monday, prompting the health minister to activate a nationwide emergency plan and place ambulance services on maximum alert. The tremor, centred 40 kilometres north of Suez, was felt as far as Cairo and the Gaza border, though no casualties or damage have been reported. Authorities have urged residents to avoid old and fragile buildings as a precaution.

Government Reopens Export Tap for Nickel and Other Minerals

The Indonesian government has confirmed that exports of mineral commodities, including nickel and tin derivatives, can resume this week after a temporary halt. The decision was made to prevent disruption to the national economy while regulations concerning the governance of rare earth elements (LTJ) are being revised. Exports of pure rare earth elements remain prohibited, but shipments of minerals containing LTJ as trace elements are now permitted.

When the Green Finally Turns to Straw

A reflection on the transient nature of worldly pursuits, drawing from the Qur'anic verse in Surah Al-Hadid. The article warns against making material wealth and status life's ultimate goal, likening them to plants that flourish then wither. It emphasises that the true purpose lies in seeking divine forgiveness and paradise, not in being enslaved by fleeting desires.

Four bodies of KKB victims identified, says military spokesman

Four of the five victims killed in an armed criminal group (KKB) attack on workers at a camp in Papua's Tolikara Regency have been identified. The attack occurred on Sunday night at the PT SHJ camp in Woniki District, where workers were building infrastructure. Military and police personnel are pursuing the perpetrators to restore security in the region.

Rare Earth Export Ban Applies Only to Primary Products, Not Associated Minerals

The Indonesian government has clarified that its export ban on rare earth elements (LTJ) applies solely to primary LTJ products, not to minerals where LTJ is merely an associated element. This decision follows high-level coordination meetings aimed at resolving a backlog of 120 vessels and harmonising regulations. The move seeks to unblock mineral shipments, including alumina, copper, and nickel derivatives, while permanent rules are being finalised.

Santri in Karawang Accused of Being a Robber, Assaulted and Scalded with Hot Water

A 17-year-old Islamic boarding school student in Karawang, West Java, was allegedly assaulted and scalded with hot water after being falsely accused of being a robber. The victim had fallen from his motorcycle and was reportedly attacked by a local security officer. Police are currently investigating the incident and the alleged perpetrator.

Trump Cancels Iran Strike, Rupiah Poised to Strengthen Today

The Indonesian rupiah is expected to strengthen against the US dollar after President Donald Trump cancelled a planned attack on Iran, citing peace requests from Tehran and neighbouring states. The move has eased geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, though gains may be limited as investors await key domestic trade and inflation data.

Mount Semeru Erupts Five Times, Spewing Ash up to 700 Metres

Mount Semeru in East Java experienced five eruptions on Monday morning, with ash columns reaching heights between 300 and 700 metres above the summit. The volcano remains at Level III (Siaga) alert status, with authorities warning residents to avoid a 13-kilometre exclusion zone along the Besuk Kobokan river. Officials have also cautioned against the potential for hot clouds, lava avalanches, and lahars in surrounding valleys.

Iranian Authorities Fear Voice Recordings Could Reveal Mojtaba Khamenei's Location

Iranian authorities are increasingly concerned that foreign intelligence agencies could use advanced technology to analyse voice recordings and pinpoint the location of Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei. A Tehran-affiliated newspaper detailed five technical methods by which audio files could expose secret coordinates. The heightened alert comes amid rising regional tensions and reports of satellite imagery showing damage to bunkers used by Iranian leaders.

Building Energy Independence from Mosque Rooftops: Green Waqf Could Drive 100 GW in Indonesia

Indonesia's religious endowments, particularly through the Green Waqf scheme, are being positioned as a key driver for the nation's solar energy ambitions. With an estimated 750,000 mosques nationwide, installing solar panels on just 200,000 of them could contribute 1 GW of clean energy. Officials and civil society groups argue that leveraging Islamic social funds, which total nearly Rp 400 trillion annually, can accelerate the transition away from fossil fuels while reducing operational costs for places of worship.

Hamas Accuses Netanyahu of Sabotaging US-Brokered Deal as Israeli Strikes Kill 18 in Gaza

Hamas has accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of deliberately escalating attacks on Gaza to derail a ceasefire implementation deal reached with mediators and the United States. The group reported that Israeli bombardments since Sunday morning have killed at least 18 Palestinians, including an entire family. Hamas called on the international community to hold Israel accountable for what it described as war crimes and to protect civilians from genocide and displacement.

Kweni-Druwo Road in Bantul Closed Until December, Here Are the Alternative Routes

The Bantul Police Traffic Unit has implemented a road closure and traffic diversion on Jalan Kweni-Druwo in Sewon to facilitate bridge construction, effective from today until 7 December 2026. Vehicles are being redirected via Jalan KH. Ali Maksum and Jalan Pasar Niten, with authorities urging motorists to follow signage and prioritise safety. The police have apologised for the inconvenience and requested public cooperation to ensure the project is completed on schedule.

Outcry Over 'Blue Woman' Statue Erected in Medina Desert

The Desert X AlUla art exhibition in Saudi Arabia has sparked public uproar and accusations of religious insensitivity after displaying a figurative statue of a woman. Critics argue the electric-blue sculpture, placed openly in the Medina administrative region, violates Islamic artistic traditions that prohibit such representations. The artist, Lita Albuquerque, defended the work as a historic breakthrough for cultural dialogue in the kingdom.

BNPP Strengthens Coordination on 2026 Border Management Action Plan

Indonesia's National Border Management Agency (BNPP) is intensifying cross-ministerial coordination to implement its 2026 action plan, aiming to transform border areas into economic growth centres. The agency reported an improvement in its Border Management Index and stressed that integrated infrastructure development and market connectivity are crucial for regional prosperity.

111 Survivors of KM Mutiara Sentosa II Evacuated to Surabaya

A total of 111 survivors from the KM Mutiara Sentosa II ferry fire have been evacuated to Tanjung Perak Port in Surabaya by a cargo vessel. Medical teams provided immediate care upon arrival, while search operations continue for 41 missing passengers. Authorities have confirmed at least five fatalities and established an information centre for relatives awaiting news.

Preserving the Meaning of 'One' in the National Education System

An opinion piece by a social psychology professor argues that Indonesia's upcoming National Education System Bill must prevent the fragmentation of education into sectoral silos. The author warns that allowing ministries like Health to become primary education providers, rather than just mapping workforce needs, risks creating dual academic standards and undermining the constitutional mandate for a single, unified national education system.

Minister Assures Government's Commitment to Strengthening Worker Welfare

Manpower Minister Yassierli has reaffirmed the government's dedication to enhancing worker welfare, protection, and competency through collaborative policymaking. Key initiatives include improvements to the Job Loss Insurance programme, the ratification of the Domestic Worker Protection Law, and expanded social security relief for informal sector workers. The government is also focusing on vocational training and apprenticeships to align workforce skills with industry demands.

Majority of Japanese Citizens Support Non-Nuclear Policy

A new national poll reveals that 76 per cent of Japanese citizens support the country's 'Three Non-Nuclear Principles'. The survey also indicates significant public scepticism regarding the government's recent decision to ease restrictions on arms exports. The findings highlight a persistent public commitment to pacifist ideals in Japan.

23 Supreme Court and Ad Hoc Judge Candidates Undergo Final Interview Selection

Twenty-three candidates for the Supreme Court and ad hoc judge positions are undergoing the final interview stage of the 2026 selection process at the Judicial Commission. The group includes 19 candidates for Supreme Court justice roles across various chambers, as well as two candidates for human rights and two for corruption ad hoc positions. The interviews aim to assess the candidates' integrity, independence, and commitment to upholding justice.

Google Disbands Nobel-Winning AlphaFold Team

Google has dissolved the DeepMind team behind the Nobel Prize-winning AlphaFold programme, two years after its scientists received the chemistry accolade. Key staff are being redeployed to the company's Gemini AI project and Isomorphic Labs, while others have departed for competitors like Anthropic. The restructuring signals a strategic shift to concentrate more resources on developing Google's Gemini artificial intelligence.

Prabowo to Receive Thai PM Anutin for State Visit This Afternoon

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to host Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta. The leaders are expected to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation in security, trade, investment, and food and energy security. A key outcome of the visit will be the announcement of the Indonesia–Thailand Strategic Partnership Roadmap 2026–2030.

Deputy Manpower Minister: Strengthening vocational and language competencies expands job opportunities

Deputy Manpower Minister Afriansyah Noor has urged the integration of language skills into national vocational training to boost job prospects abroad. He noted that countries like Japan require specific language proficiency, such as N4 level Japanese, for foreign workers. The government is targeting 300,000 participants in its vocational training programmes this year to align workforce skills with industry demands.

Rupiah expected to strengthen as US cancels plan to attack Iran

The Indonesian rupiah is forecast to appreciate against the US dollar following President Donald Trump's decision to call off a planned attack on Iran. The move has raised hopes for peace in the Middle East, while investors also await the release of key domestic economic data. The currency is expected to trade in a range of Rp17,950 to Rp18,100 per US dollar.

Ex-KPK Investigator: Hoegeng Award Winners Represent the Police Force Citizens Hope For

Former KPK investigator Yudi Purnomo Harahap has praised the winners and nominees of the 2026 Hoegeng Awards, describing them as the true face of the Indonesian National Police desired by the public. He expressed hope that these exemplary officers would inspire their colleagues to uphold integrity and improve service quality. Yudi also proposed a new award category to recognise police contributions to academic and scientific fields.

Manpower Minister Attends Hoegeng Awards for Second Time: 'Truly Inspiring'

Manpower Minister Yassierli praised the Hoegeng Awards 2026, stating his second attendance at the event was deeply inspiring. He highlighted that the awards demonstrate how professional and dedicated service to the public brings goodness, and expressed hope that the exemplary police officers would remain consistent. The Hoegeng Awards, a collaboration between detikcom and the Indonesian National Police, honours outstanding officers across five categories.