Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 3 August 2026

Showing 1,351-1,400 of 1,519 articles

South Sumatra Police Chief Urges Discipline and Health Awareness During Morning Assembly

South Sumatra Police Chief Inspector General Sandi Nugroho led a morning assembly where he stressed the importance of discipline alongside the physical and mental well-being of personnel. He also presented awards to units and officers for outstanding performance, including achieving a perfect score in the 2025 Budget Implementation Performance Indicator (IKPA). The event underscored the force's commitment to balancing firm law enforcement with the welfare of its members.

Steel Architectural Awards ASEAN 2026 Strengthens Regional Collaboration to Promote Architectural Excellence

The Steel Architectural Awards ASEAN returns for its second edition, inviting architects from Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam to submit projects showcasing innovation and sustainability using coated steel. The programme, organised by NS BlueScope in partnership with regional architectural bodies, will culminate in an awards ceremony in Bangkok in November 2026. Winners will participate in a week-long learning programme in Australia, including visits to iconic projects and the Australian Architecture Conference.

Bank Indonesia Boosts UMKM Global Competitiveness, Sambal Mantu Expands Market Overseas

Bank Indonesia is intensifying support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (UMKM) to enhance their global competitiveness, recognising the sector's 61.1 percent contribution to GDP. One beneficiary, Bali-based sambal producer Sambal Mantu, has grown from a home business into an internationally marketed brand. The central bank's programmes focus on export orientation, tourism alignment, and supply-side inflation control.

Deputy Minister says entrepreneurship is key to Indonesia's economic progress

Deputy Minister for Creative Economy Irene Umar has emphasised that fostering an entrepreneurial mindset among young people is crucial for Indonesia to become a developed economy, noting the country still falls short of the World Bank's recommended 10-12% entrepreneur ratio. The Ministry is supporting initiatives like Prestasi Junior Indonesia, which has equipped over two million students with business and financial skills since 2011.

ELSA Allocates Rp100 Billion, Share Buyback Commences Today

PT Elnusa Tbk (ELSA) has announced a share buyback programme worth up to Rp100 billion, signalling management's confidence in the company's fundamentals and future prospects. The buyback, running from 3 August to 2 November 2026, will be funded through internal cash optimisation and is designed to stabilise the share price amid market fluctuations. The company assures the move will not disrupt its operational activities or long-term growth plans.

World Bank: 48% of Small Businesses Avoid QRIS to Evade Tax

A World Bank report reveals that nearly half of Indonesia's micro-enterprises deliberately avoid using the national QRIS digital payment system to stay off the tax radar, driven by a deep mistrust of the fiscal system. This structural tax avoidance undermines state revenue, perpetuates the informal economy, and limits small business access to formal credit. The findings present a major challenge to the government's push for digital financial inclusion and tax base expansion.

After Expanding into New Markets, What's the Next Step?

The Land-Sea Economic Forum 2026 in Kuala Lumpur convened nearly 200 representatives to discuss post-expansion strategies, focusing on AI-driven industrial transformation and localisation. The forum highlighted the growing economic corridor between Western China and ASEAN, underpinned by the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor (ILSTC) and digital innovation. Key outcomes included the launch of a new Bridging News station and a report outlining how Chinese and Malaysian firms can deepen their presence in the ASEAN market through local partnerships and brand strengthening.

Kiaracondong Thug Arrested After Attacking Residents with Sword

A man known as a local thug in Kiaracondong, Bandung, has been arrested after attacking four residents with a sword over a debt of Rp150,000. The attack occurred early Sunday morning, leaving one victim with slash wounds to his hand and mouth. Police apprehended the suspect within 24 hours and are searching for two accomplices.

Saudi Arabia Seeks to Avoid Direct War with Iran, MBS Urges Trump to Maintain Gulf Stability

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has urged former US President Donald Trump to prioritise dialogue over military escalation with Iran, hours before Trump announced a pause in planned strikes. The Saudi leadership emphasised the need to maintain security and stability in the Gulf region and prevent a wider conflict. Trump subsequently stated he had called off the attacks, citing a framework for a five-month truce involving the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and addressing Iran's nuclear programme.

KKP Develops Thematic Fish Farming to Supply Free Nutritious Meal Programme

Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) is advancing thematic fish farming programmes to secure protein supplies for the national Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) initiative. The model integrates aquaculture with village economic ecosystems to ensure market certainty for farmers. A pilot project in Blora, Central Java, utilises biofloc technology for catfish farming to supply four local nutritional service units.

Electricity Outage Hits Jakarta and Surroundings, PLN Reveals Cause

A power outage affected parts of Jakarta and its surrounding areas on Sunday night, with supply fully restored by Monday morning. PLN's Jakarta distribution unit attributed the disruption to a fault at the Gandul substation affecting the Cirendeu line. The state-owned utility has apologised for the inconvenience and directed customers to its official channels for complaints.

A Decade of CICIL: Celebrating Transformation and Commitment to Supporting Productive Sectors

Indonesian fintech firm PT CICIL Solusi Mitra Teknologi marks its 10th anniversary, reflecting on a decade of growth and a strategic pivot from education financing to supply chain and ecosystem funding. The company has disbursed over Rp4 trillion in funding to more than 62,000 borrowers since its founding in 2016. CICIL aims to further expand its reach into real sectors and drive financial inclusion through product innovation.

Rupiah Strengthens to Rp 18,008 as Market Monitors Trade Balance and Inflation Data

The Indonesian rupiah strengthened slightly against the US dollar in early trading on Monday, but analysts warn that a series of upcoming domestic economic indicators could exert renewed pressure. Market participants are closely watching the June trade balance, which is expected to show a deficit, alongside slowing inflation and a continued contraction in manufacturing activity. Declining foreign exchange reserves and weakening consumer confidence are also expected to influence market sentiment in the coming days.

Food Security Maintained, Malinau Prosperous

Malinau Regent Wempi W. Mawa has launched the Healthy Agriculture (PESAT) programme to bolster regional food security by converting idle land and modernising infrastructure. The initiative has already mobilised 380 task force members, yielding over 36 tonnes of unhusked rice and 8.6 tonnes of maize. The programme aims to achieve self-sufficiency, create employment, and aligns with President Prabowo's national food sovereignty goals.

Independence Day: Freeing Campuses from the Scourge of Sexual Violence

Despite 81 years of Indonesian independence, university campuses remain unsafe for many due to pervasive sexual violence, with 2,761 cases reported in 2025 alone. The author argues that recent legislation, including the 2022 Sexual Violence Crime Law and a 2024 ministerial regulation, makes protection a legal obligation, not just a moral one. The article calls for universities to move beyond symbolic compliance and implement concrete, systemic measures to create a truly safe and dignified academic environment.

World Bank: 48% of Small Businesses Avoid QRIS to Evade Tax Scrutiny

A World Bank report reveals that nearly half of Indonesia's small businesses deliberately limit their use of digital payment systems like QRIS to avoid tax obligations, driven by distrust in the government and fears of corruption. The study highlights a strong correlation between engagement with formal financial services and tax compliance, noting that firms avoiding digital transactions are more likely to report that tax evasion is easy. The findings underscore the challenge of broadening the tax base in an economy where only 62% of small enterprises hold a bank account.

Antam Gold Price Rises by Rp7,000 to Rp2.61 Million per Gram

The price of gold bullion produced by state miner PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) increased by Rp7,000 to Rp2,610,000 per gram on Monday. The buyback price also rose to Rp2,379,000 per gram. Transactions above Rp10 million are subject to a 1.5 percent income tax, while purchases incur a 0.25 percent tax.

Rupiah Opens Strong, US Dollar Falls to Rp17,950

The Indonesian rupiah opened the week on a strong footing, appreciating 0.22% against the US dollar to trade at Rp17,950. The greenback's weakness was driven by a joint intervention by Japan and the US to support the yen, which pushed the dollar index below the 100 level. Market participants are also awaiting the release of Indonesia's July inflation data, which is expected to show a moderation in price pressures.

IFW 2026: Pertamina Patra Niaga Strengthens Market Access for Assisted MSMEs

Pertamina Patra Niaga is bolstering market access for its assisted micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by featuring 11 local businesses at Indonesia Fashion Week 2026. The initiative aims to promote local crafts, including regional attire and batik, to a broader national and international audience. The company views this as part of its commitment to empowering local economies and enhancing the competitiveness of Indonesia's creative industries.

IHSG Opens in the Green, Poised to Test Resistance as Wall Street and Asian Markets Rally

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened higher on Monday, gaining 36 points to 6,272, as it prepares to test a strong resistance level at 6,300. The rise mirrored rallies on Wall Street and across Asian bourses, driven by renewed optimism in the technology sector following strong earnings from Microsoft and Amazon. Analysts caution that the index may face a correction if it fails to break through the 6,300 threshold.

IHSG Opens 0.21% Higher This Morning, Majority of Shares Strengthen

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened higher on Monday, gaining 0.21% as investors weighed a mix of domestic and global factors. Market attention is focused on upcoming Indonesian economic data, including inflation and Q2 GDP growth, against a backdrop of weakening Asian markets. Foreign fund flows remain under scrutiny following a significant negotiated transaction last week.

The Plengkung Madyasuro Tragedy: The Tragic Tale of Sumodiningrat and the Sultanate's Treasure in London

The 1812 Geger Sepehi, a devastating assault on the Yogyakarta Sultanate, was a culmination of political intrigue and betrayal, resulting in the fall of the kingdom and the death of its commander, Raden Tumenggung Sumodiningrat. Experts highlight the anti-colonial stance of Sultan Hamengkubuwono II and the secret negotiations between the Mangkunegaran Legion and the British that enabled the attack. The aftermath saw systematic cultural looting, with prized artefacts including a royal gamelan now held at Claydon House Museum in London.

Disbursement Date for 30 Kg Rice Aid Phase 2 in 2026 and Recipient Criteria

The Indonesian government will begin distributing Phase II of its 2026 rice aid programme on 17 August, coinciding with Independence Day celebrations. A total of 997.2 thousand tonnes of rice will be allocated to 33.24 million beneficiary families classified in desil 1 to 4 of the National Socio-Economic Single Data registry. This second phase represents a significant increase compared to the previous year's total allocation.

Forest and Land Fires Spread in West Aceh, 19 Hectares of Land Scorched

Forest and land fires in a peatland area of West Aceh have expanded from 14 to 19 hectares over the past two weeks. Extreme heat and strong winds are accelerating the spread of the flames, complicating containment efforts. Authorities are working to control the blaze and mitigate the impact of smoke haze on local communities.

Bakrie and Salim Mining Issuer's Profit Jumps 87%, H. Isam's Receivables Soar Tenfold

PT Bumi Resources (BUMI), a coal and mineral mining company affiliated with the Bakrie and Salim groups, reported an 87.4% surge in consolidated net profit for the first half of 2026, driven by a 27.9% increase in revenue. The financial report also revealed a dramatic increase in trade receivables from PT Jhonlin Group, owned by Haji Isam, which soared nearly elevenfold to US$153.52 million. Jhonlin Group simultaneously serves as BUMI's second-largest customer and a major supplier, highlighting a significant deepening of business ties between the two entities.

South Bangka Records Leap in Licensing Performance, 'Very Good' Rating with Score of 92.190

South Bangka Regency has achieved a 'Very Good' rating in the 2026 assessment of its integrated one-stop service and business implementation performance, scoring 92.190. This marks a dramatic 37-point increase from its 2024 score, making it the district with the highest improvement in the Bangka Belitung Islands Province. The achievement is expected to foster a more conducive investment climate and drive regional economic growth.

Fire Strikes Tegalgubug Textile Market in Cirebon Again, Just Days After Previous Blaze

A major fire broke out at the Tegalgubug Textile Market in Cirebon, West Java, on Saturday night, marking the second blaze at the market within a week. The fire destroyed 45 stalls in Block III, with officials suspecting an electrical short circuit as the cause. No casualties were reported as the market was closed at the time of the incident.

Welcome Ocean Institute of Indonesia!

Indonesia has inaugurated the Ocean Institute of Indonesia (OII), a merger of 11 vocational schools under the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, to create a unified, industry-aligned educational entity. The institute aims to develop superior human resources to harness the nation's vast marine potential, including fisheries, blue carbon, and renewable energy, for national prosperity. The initiative aligns with the government's broader focus on human capital development to support the Indonesia Emas 2045 vision.

Latest Deposit Interest Rates at Bank Mandiri, BNI and BRI as of 3 August 2026

Indonesia's state-owned banks—BRI, BNI, and Bank Mandiri—have maintained their deposit interest rates unchanged entering August 2026, despite a 100 basis point rate hike by Bank Indonesia in June. The stability offers a safe haven for savers amid global monetary tightening and rupiah depreciation, with rates ranging from 2.25% to 3.50% depending on the bank and tenor.

How to Secure Tickets for the 17 August Ceremony at the Palace: Check Requirements and Rules

The Indonesian government is expected to open online registration for the public to attend the 81st Independence Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace. Due to high demand and limited capacity, prospective attendees are advised to prepare their personal documents early and monitor the official Pandang Istana website. The public is also warned against fraudulent parties offering paid access, as participation is strictly through the official government mechanism.

Integration Effect of Growin' and Livin': Mandiri Sekuritas Gains 2,100 New Investors Daily

Mandiri Sekuritas has seen a surge in new client acquisition, averaging 2,100 new investors per day over the past six months, driven by the integration of its Growin' digital investment platform into Bank Mandiri's super app, Livin'. The state-owned securities firm's total client base reached 1.48 million by June 2026, a fourfold increase from the previous year, with 86% of new investors coming from the Millennial and Gen Z demographics. This cross-channel digital strategy is part of a broader effort to deepen domestic capital market participation and solidify the firm's position as a leading brokerage in Indonesia.

Rice Aid to be Distributed on 17 August, Each Recipient Gets 30 Kg

The Indonesian government will commence the second phase of its rice food aid programme on 17 August 2026, coinciding with the nation's Independence Day celebrations. A total of 33.24 million beneficiaries will receive a three-month allocation of 30 kg of rice each, distributed in a single tranche. The programme, a directive from President Prabowo Subianto, utilises the latest National Socio-Economic Single Data and involves a total budget of IDR 17.52 trillion.

Daily Stock Recommendations: BBRI, AMMN, SGER Among Picks as IHSG Closes Higher

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) ended Friday's session in positive territory, buoyed by gains in BBRI, ASII, and AMMN. Market attention is also turning to the upcoming rebalancing of the IDX30, LQ45, and IDX80 indices, which is expected to boost trading activity in constituent stocks. Meanwhile, corporate actions from DRMA, SMRA, and ELSA provided additional market colour.

Sugar Producer GULA Swings to Profit, Plans Acquisition, Shares Surge 226%

PT Aman Agrindo Tbk (GULA) has reversed its losses, posting a net profit in 2026 following a significant jump in sales. The company is also planning to acquire a sugar factory in Central Java and expects its new factory in Pandeglang to be operational by the fourth quarter of 2026, boosting production capacity to meet strong domestic demand.

House Commission III Chair Urges GIIAS Usher to Report Unauthorised Recording to Police

The chairman of Indonesia's House Commission III has urged a GIIAS automotive exhibition usher to file a police report after a content creator filmed her without consent for a video titled 'how to approach a girl'. Habiburokhman stated that such candid recording for commercial content is unethical and violates multiple laws, including the Copyright Law and the Sexual Violence Crime Law. He pledged that the commission would oversee the legal process to ensure a deterrent effect against privacy violations by content creators.

Minister: Persons with disabilities must achieve equal employment opportunities

Manpower Minister Yassierli has stressed that persons with disabilities are not objects of pity but subjects of development entitled to equal work and career opportunities. He highlighted that global labour force participation for disabled persons is around 30 per cent lower than for non-disabled groups. The government is reinforcing its commitment through competency-based recruitment, workplace adjustments, and regulations mandating a minimum 2 per cent quota for disabled workers in state institutions.

KPAI Condemns YouTuber Bigmo for Involving Children in Vape Promotion, Urges Police Action

The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has strongly condemned YouTuber Muhammad Jannah, known as Bigmo, for allegedly involving minors in a live-streamed vape liquid promotion. The commission warns that such actions normalise addictive substance use among children and has urged law enforcement to take firm action. Police have confirmed receiving a complaint regarding suspected child exploitation and are currently investigating the incident.

Indonesia develops frankincense oil for premium perfumes to boost local industry

Indonesia is developing its native frankincense into high-value fragrance oils for the global perfume market, aiming to shift from exporting raw resin to producing finished luxury goods. BRIN researchers highlight the resin's unique aromatic and therapeutic properties, and are encouraging local SMEs to adopt the technology to reduce imports and strengthen the creative economy.

Five Dead, Minister AHY Orders Immediate Investigation into KM Mutiara Sentosa Fire

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono has ordered an immediate investigation into the fatal fire aboard the KM Mutiara Sentosa in the waters north of Madura. The minister expressed his deep condolences and stressed that the National Transportation Safety Committee will work to determine the exact cause of the incident. He also emphasised the need to strengthen standard operating procedures and vessel seaworthiness checks to prioritise passenger safety.

Power Outages Hit Parts of Jakarta and South Tangerang, PLN Investigates Cause

A power supply disruption from the Gandul substation towards Cirendeu caused blackouts in several areas of South Jakarta and South Tangerang early Monday morning. State electricity firm PLN is working to restore supply and is still investigating the cause of the incident. Residents reported outages starting around 5 a.m., with some claiming to have heard an explosion near the Gandul substation.

Riau Police Expedition Distributes 180 Flags to Talang Mamak Tribe in Remote Interior

A police expedition team from the Riau Regional Police has reached the remote Talang Mamak indigenous community in Indragiri Hulu Regency, distributing 180 Indonesian flags to mark the 81st Independence Day. The initiative, which also included the provision of food aid, tree planting, and sports equipment, aims to foster nationalism and demonstrate the state's presence in isolated border areas. The programme underscores a commitment to social welfare and environmental conservation under the force's 'Green Policing' scheme.

Purbaya Revises Criteria for Regional Endowment Fund Formation, Here Are the Details!

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has issued a new regulation relaxing the criteria for establishing Regional Endowment Funds (DAD). The revision, PMK No. 47/2026, notably includes the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY) as an area exempt from the general criteria. The changes also adjust the stages for allocating DAD within regional budgets, allowing for greater flexibility.

Government Urges Public to Register for Independence Day Ceremony and Fly the Flag

Ahead of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, the government has opened public registration for the national ceremony at the Merdeka Palace. Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago has also called on regional governments to take the lead in disseminating accurate information to counter hoaxes. The initiatives are part of broader efforts to foster national unity, with organisations like Kowani encouraging citizens to display the national flag throughout August.

Air Force Service Day 2026: Air Chief Marshal Outlines Air Defence Transformation

The Indonesian Air Force commemorated its 2026 Service Day by honouring three pioneering officers who died on a humanitarian mission in 1947. Air Chief Marshal Mohamad Tonny Harjono used the occasion to stress that the spirit of their sacrifice must underpin a comprehensive transformation of the force. He outlined a modernisation drive extending beyond new weaponry to include organisational reform, cyber and space domains, and human resource development to meet complex future threats.

Bakrie's VKTR Posts 25% Profit Rise, Seeks Fresh Funds for Electric Bus Expansion

PT VKTR Teknologi Mobilitas Tbk, the Bakrie Group's electric vehicle arm, reported a 25% jump in net profit for the first half of 2026, driven by strong demand for commercial electric vehicles and a recovery in the auto components sector. The company is also in the process of registering a rights issue with the Financial Services Authority (OJK) to raise capital. The funds are earmarked to expand its mobility-as-a-service subsidiary, allowing customers to lease electric fleets without large upfront investments.

Traffic Engineering to Be Implemented During Thai PM's Visit to Jakarta

Jakarta authorities will implement temporary traffic engineering on several major roads during the state visit of Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. The measures, scheduled for 3-4 August 2026, are intended to ensure the smooth passage of the visiting delegation. Motorists are advised to anticipate delays or seek alternative routes.

PLN Jakarta confirms electricity supply has been restored

PT PLN has successfully restored electricity supply to all affected customers in Jakarta following a disruption at the Gandul substation. The state-owned utility apologised for the inconvenience and confirmed that power was fully normalised by 7 a.m. local time. PLN's CEO also assured that measures, including additional coal supply and a planned 4.6 GW capacity increase by 2027, are being implemented to prevent future outages in Java.

PBNU Launches 'My Safe Pesantren' Movement to End Violence Against Students

The Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU) has declared the 'Pesantrenku Aman' (My Safe Pesantren) movement in Tangerang to strengthen protections for Islamic boarding school students. The initiative aims to create a comprehensive safe learning environment free from violence, bullying, and discrimination. PBNU officials stressed that traditional disciplinary methods must evolve to meet modern standards, ensuring students' basic rights and access to education are fully guaranteed.

Food Minister: KDMP-MBG Synergy Begins to Provide Market Certainty for Communities

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan stated that the synergy between the Merah Putih Village Cooperative (KDMP) and the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme is creating a closed-loop economy. The model, piloted in Blora, Central Java, ensures market absorption for local fish farmers while supplying protein for the government's nutrition initiative. The integration aims to strengthen village economies and national food resilience by connecting community production directly with state demand.

The World's 10 Smartest Cities, Including Indonesia's Neighbour

London has been named the world's smartest city for 2026 by Boston Consulting Group's inaugural Intelligent Cities Index, which evaluates how effectively local governments use AI and digital technology to improve residents' quality of life. The index assessed 61 global cities, with Dubai, New York City, Washington DC, and Amsterdam rounding out the top five. Notably, the report found that cities in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East show the highest citizen enthusiasm for adopting generative AI, challenging the notion that such technology is confined to traditional tech hubs.