Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 3 August 2026

Showing 251-300 of 1,519 articles

Papua Special Committee Visits Displaced Residents, Promises to Address Root Causes of Conflict

The Regional Representative Council's (DPD) Papua Special Committee, led by Yorrys Raweyai, has visited hundreds of displaced residents in Puncak, Papua Tengah, who have lost their livelihoods due to ongoing conflict. The displaced, from districts including Yugumuak and Oneri, reported receiving no government aid and expressed a desire to return home despite the security situation. The committee pledged to incorporate the testimonies into its recommendations, focusing on civilian protection, restoration of basic services, and constructive dialogue to resolve the conflict.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Commissioner Applauds SME Success at Indonesia Fashion Week 2026

Pertamina Patra Niaga's Commissioner, Tina Talisa, visited the company's fostered SME partners at Indonesia Fashion Week 2026, praising their product quality and market expansion. The event featured 11 SMEs from various regions showcasing textiles, accessories, and crafts, highlighting the company's efforts to boost local business competitiveness. The initiative provides training, legal support, and market access, with one participant noting the programme helped her open a physical gallery.

Attorney General's Office Task Force Urged to Reveal Owner of Rp476 Billion and 74 kg of Gold in Febrie Adriansyah Money Laundering Case

Public pressure is mounting on the Attorney General's Office (Kejagung) to disclose the owner of Rp476 billion in cash and 74 kilograms of gold seized in the money laundering case involving former senior official Febrie Adriansyah. Anti-corruption activist Iqbal Hutapea stated that the public's demand for transparency is justified given the enormous value of the assets and the high-profile nature of the suspect. The Task Force 9 is expected to conduct a professional and thorough investigation to trace the origins of the assets.

Human Rights Ministry stresses strengthening human rights to prevent vigilante actions

The Ministry of Human Rights has underscored the need to bolster human rights awareness down to the village level to prevent fatal vigilante incidents. The ministry is promoting a persuasive approach through public education, urging communities to trust law enforcement processes. This follows the death of a man suspected of stealing chickens in Tabanan, Bali, which led to five suspects being named in a fatal mob attack.

Only 7 Countries Where Citizens Remain Optimistic, Indonesia Among Them

A global survey by Ipsos reveals that only seven out of 30 countries have a majority of citizens who believe their nation is heading in the right direction. Indonesia ranks joint fourth with 62% optimism, significantly above the global average of 41%. The findings highlight a stark divide, with six of the seven optimistic nations located in Asia, while European countries dominate the bottom of the list.

Police Question Two Witnesses in Pullman Hotel Fire Investigation

Jakarta police are questioning two witnesses as they investigate the cause of a fire at the Pullman Hotel in West Jakarta. Forensic teams are expected to examine the scene to determine the exact origin of the blaze, which was extinguished by 14 fire engines and 70 personnel. The cause of the fire remains undetermined.

Floods Inundate Three Districts in Padang Amid El Niño Dry Season

Heavy rainfall triggered flooding across three districts in Padang, West Sumatra, on Monday, despite the region being in the dry season and experiencing the El Niño phenomenon. The floods submerged residential areas and roads, prompting emergency evacuations by the local disaster agency. Authorities are continuing to assess casualties and material damage while urging vigilance for further hydrometeorological hazards.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Commissioner Applauds SMEs Showcasing at Indonesia Fashion Week

Pertamina Patra Niaga's commissioner has praised the participation of its fostered small and medium enterprises (SMEs) at Indonesia Fashion Week 2026. The event provided a platform for 11 local businesses to display products ranging from fashion to leather crafts, demonstrating the high quality of Indonesian talent. The initiative is part of the company's efforts to expand market access and boost the competitiveness of local enterprises.

Navy's Kodaeral IV Foils Smuggling of 1.6 Tonnes of Tin Worth Rp1.3 Billion

The Indonesian Navy's Regional Maritime Command (Kodaeral) IV has thwarted an attempt to smuggle 1.6 tonnes of tin sand to Malaysia from the Riau Islands. The seized commodity has an estimated economic value of Rp1.3 billion. One suspect was arrested along with evidence including air guns and mobile phones.

Gus Ipul and Gus Kikin Rally for 'Return to the Founders' Spirit' Ahead of NU Congress

Senior Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) figures Saifullah Yusuf (Gus Ipul) and KH Abdul Hakim Mahfudz (Gus Kikin) inspected preparations at the Tambakberas Islamic Boarding School in Jombang, East Java, for the upcoming 35th NU Congress. The leaders expressed satisfaction with the accommodation and facilities being prepared for over 3,000 participants, emphasising the theme of returning to the organisation's founding values. The congress is scheduled to take place from 27 to 31 August 2026.

Indonesia and Saudi Arabia Take Concrete Steps to Build a Sustainable Hajj Economic Ecosystem

Indonesia and Saudi Arabia are strengthening economic diplomacy through a business matching forum focused on the Hajj and Umrah sectors. The event, held in Jakarta, connected Indonesian producers and exporters with Saudi importers, logistics firms, and catering companies to foster long-term trade and investment partnerships. The initiative aims to integrate the supply chain for pilgrimage services and expand the use of Indonesian products within the Kingdom's Hajj ecosystem.

With 7% Margin, Bulog's Financial Balance Could Swing to a Positive Rp1.14 Trillion

State logistics firm Perum Bulog projects its financial balance will turn positive to Rp1.14 trillion by year-end after the government approved a new margin scheme. The margin has been raised from a flat Rp50 per kilogram to 7 per cent, equivalent to approximately Rp970 per kg. The policy change is intended to strengthen Bulog's role in national food security and improve the quality of its public services.

Manufacturing PMI Expansion Reflects Confidence in Industrial Resilience, Says Ministry

Indonesia's Manufacturing PMI rebounded to 50.2 in July 2026, signalling renewed business confidence and a recovery in production after months of contraction. The Ministry of Industry attributed the expansion to rising output, new job creation, and supportive government policies such as fixed gas prices and import duty relief for plastic raw materials.

Lumajang BPBD Strengthens Semeru Forward Post to Accelerate Disaster Information

The Lumajang Regency Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) is enhancing the Semeru Forward Post with an early warning siren system to speed up the dissemination of disaster information. The initiative aims to reduce risk by providing faster warnings to communities, volunteers, and workers in areas prone to Mount Semeru's hazards. The system is designed to give residents sufficient time to cease activities in danger zones or evacuate when volcanic activity increases.

West Java Quran Recitation Competition 2026 Cancelled Due to Budget Cuts and Host Withdrawal

The West Java Provincial Quran Recitation Competition (MTQ) scheduled for 2026 has been cancelled. The decision was attributed to budget efficiency measures and the withdrawal of Garut Regency as the host. The provincial LPTQ will instead focus resources on preparing a contingent for the national-level MTQ in Central Java.

Indonesia and Thailand Strengthen Joint Fight Against Online Scams

President Prabowo Subianto has affirmed a commitment to deeper security cooperation with Thailand, specifically targeting the growing threat of transnational online scams. The partnership has already facilitated the repatriation of nearly 1,000 Indonesian victims from scam operations in Thailand. Both nations plan to enhance intelligence sharing, joint investigations, and financial tracking to dismantle criminal networks.

Dozens Evacuated from Flood-Hit Areas in Padang

Dozens of residents were evacuated from flooded areas in Padang, West Sumatra, on Monday as heavy rainfall inundated several neighbourhoods. The local disaster mitigation agency deployed rubber boats to rescue approximately 35 families in Kuranji District. Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant against hydrometeorological hazards and to monitor official weather updates.

Deposits Under IDR 100 Million Grow 5.16 Percent as of June 2026: LPS

The Indonesia Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) reported that aggregate bank deposits across all nominal tiers continued to grow as of June 2026. Deposits under IDR 100 million, predominantly held by individuals and households, saw a 5.16 percent year-on-year increase, while deposits under IDR 5 million surged by 7.36 percent. The LPS also confirmed that deposit insurance coverage remains extensive, fully guaranteeing 99.94 percent of commercial bank accounts.

Health Ministry: TB Detection for People with Disabilities Needs Strengthening

Indonesia's Health Ministry has called for reinforced tuberculosis detection and treatment for people with disabilities, highlighting the need for more inclusive screening technology. The statement responds to research on the TBScreen.AI platform, which uses artificial intelligence to improve screening efficiency. Indonesia has the world's second-highest TB burden, with an estimated 1.09 million cases and 125,000 deaths annually.

BI Aceh and SBA turn shredded banknote waste into cement fuel

Bank Indonesia's Aceh office has partnered with cement manufacturer PT Solusi Bangun Andalas to repurpose shredded unfit banknotes as alternative fuel for cement production. The co-processing method supports sustainable rupiah management and aligns with the central bank's commitment to a low-carbon economy. Laboratory tests confirmed the waste is non-hazardous and qualifies as biomass for industrial use.

Minister Tito: Dukcapil Data Is the Most Complete, Equipped with Biometric Identity

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has stated that the population data managed by the Directorate General of Dukcapil is the most comprehensive in Indonesia, covering nearly 99 per cent of the population. The database includes biometric identifiers such as facial recognition, fingerprints, and iris scans, and is updated daily. This data serves as the fundamental basis for the government's digital transformation and policy-making.

USU Student Accused of Harassing 66 People Expelled from Campus

A student at the University of North Sumatra (USU) has been permanently expelled after a university task force found him guilty of sexually harassing 66 fellow students. The perpetrator, identified by the initials CHS, targeted both female and male victims and was deemed uncooperative during the investigation. The university has pledged to continue providing psychological support and academic assistance to all victims.

NTB Government Targets 140,000 Spectators for 2026 Mandalika MotoGP

The West Nusa Tenggara provincial government is aiming to attract 140,000 spectators over three days for the 2026 Mandalika MotoGP, scheduled for 11 October. Officials are optimistic about ticket sales due to an earlier release and are conducting comprehensive evaluations of accommodation, infrastructure, and transport management. The administration is also addressing recurring issues such as hotel price surges and road damage to ensure the event runs more smoothly than in previous years.

How Healthy Is Jakarta's Budget for Repaying Rp3.5 Trillion in Bonds by 2034?

The Jakarta provincial government plans to issue Rp3.5 trillion in municipal bonds in 2027 to fund strategic projects, with a seven-year tenor maturing in 2034. Experts assess the capital's fiscal capacity as robust, citing strong local revenue that far exceeds the bond value, though they stress the importance of directing funds to productive, sustainable projects with measurable impacts. Governor Pramono Anung has described the bond issuance as a form of creative financing and confirmed coordination with central government ministries.

House Demands Comprehensive Audit of Passenger Ships After KM Mutiara Sentosa 2 Fire

A member of the Indonesian House of Representatives has urged the Ministry of Transportation to conduct a thorough safety audit of all long-distance passenger ships following a fire aboard the KM Mutiara Sentosa 2. The legislator stressed that public transport safety must be the top priority, particularly for vessels carrying both passengers and logistics vehicles. The call comes as investigations into the cause of the blaze and the adequacy of onboard safety equipment continue.

Vape Adverts Found in Children's Content, Minister Says YouTube Is Inconsistent

Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi) is summoning YouTube over alleged violations involving vape advertisements appearing in children's content. Minister Meutya Hafid stated the platform has not only breached Indonesian regulations but also its own community guidelines. The government has issued a warning letter and will assess YouTube's response within three days, criticising the inconsistency of major tech firms in policing harmful online material.

West Java BPS: July Deflation of 0.05 Percent Due to MBG Holiday and Bumper Harvest

West Java experienced a monthly deflation of 0.05 percent in July 2026, driven by an abundant horticultural harvest and reduced demand for food commodities during the school holidays. The temporary suspension of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme led to a drop in prices for chicken meat and eggs. Despite the monthly decline, the annual inflation rate remained stable at 2.72 percent.

Floods Widen in Padang City, Residents Evacuated by Boat

Severe flooding triggered by intense, prolonged rainfall has inundated three sub-districts in Padang, West Sumatra, prompting emergency evacuations by boat. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) reported that strong currents swept away several motor vehicles as rescue teams worked to move residents to safety. Authorities have warned that heavy rain is expected to persist, aligning with a meteorological alert for extreme weather in the region.

Home Affairs Minister Urges Expansion of Social Protection to Ensure Targeted Aid Distribution

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has called for the expansion of a social protection programme following a successful pilot in Banyuwangi Regency, which identified significant numbers of ineligible applicants for government aid. The initiative integrates civil registry data with land, vehicle, and socio-economic databases to improve the accuracy of beneficiary lists. The government aims to replicate the e-government system in 143 districts and cities by August 2026 to ensure social assistance reaches those genuinely in need.

Suu Kyi Finally Appears in Public After Years of Mystery

Myanmar's deposed democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi has met with a representative of the International Committee of the Red Cross, marking her first contact with a foreign official since the 2021 coup. The meeting, confirmed by the president's office, comes after years of speculation about her wellbeing and repeated demands from family and diplomats for proof of life. Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing, recently installed as civilian president, commuted her sentence to house arrest in April.

Prabowo Offers Condolences on Passing of Thai Princess

President Prabowo Subianto has expressed his deepest condolences to the Royal Family and people of Thailand following the death of Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendira Debyavati. The message was delivered during a state dinner with Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta. Prabowo also extended birthday wishes to King Maha Vajiralongkorn, highlighting their long-standing personal rapport from their shared military backgrounds.

Prabowo Welcomes Thai PM in Jakarta, First Official Visit in 15 Years

President Prabowo Subianto hosted Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul for a historic bilateral meeting in Jakarta, marking the first official visit by a Thai premier in 15 years. The leaders discussed elevating bilateral ties to a strategic partnership, focusing on delivering tangible benefits for their citizens and contributing to a stronger, more stable ASEAN.

Central Sulawesi BKSDA and DSLNG Consistently Monitor Maleo Health in Captivity

The Central Sulawesi Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) and PT Donggi Senoro LNG (DSLNG) are conducting regular health checks on the endangered maleo bird at a conservation facility in Banggai Regency. The facility, located within the DSLNG plant area, has successfully released 127 birds into the wild since its inauguration. Recent examinations of 21 birds found them generally healthy, though two were treated for diarrhoea.

Mount Sinabung Activity Increases, Deep Volcanic Earthquakes Detected

Mount Sinabung in North Sumatra has shown increased volcanic activity, with monitoring stations recording a rise in deep volcanic earthquakes. Authorities are warning of potential phreatic or magmatic eruptions and the risk of lava dome collapse. The alert level remains at Level II (Waspada), with exclusion zones in place and warnings issued about secondary lahar hazards during rainfall.

ITB Professor: Andaman gas benefits hinge on Aceh industrialisation

A prominent ITB professor has stated that the true economic benefits of the South Andaman gas discoveries will only be realised through downstream industrialisation in Aceh. He argues that using the gas as feedstock for new industries like fertiliser and petrochemicals will create far greater and more sustainable value than simply selling it as a commodity. The development is seen as a crucial opportunity to transform Aceh into a new centre of economic growth in Indonesia.

At 80, President Lula Seeks Fourth Term, Highlights Foreign Interference

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, aged 80, has officially launched his campaign for a fourth term in the October elections, centring his platform on national sovereignty and rejecting foreign meddling. He pledged to protect Brazil's strategic mineral reserves and criticised his main rival, Flavio Bolsonaro, for his closeness to US President Donald Trump. Despite leading in the polls, Lula faces significant domestic challenges including high living costs and budget deficit concerns.

Indonesia eyes vertical housing to resolve national backlog

The Indonesian government is promoting vertical housing as a primary strategy to address a national backlog of 9.6 million homes, particularly in land-scarce urban areas. BP Tapera Commissioner Heru Pudyo Nugroho stated that high-density developments will maximise land efficiency and improve residents' access to employment and public services. The initiative, part of the 3 Million Houses Program, will utilise state land and is backed by President Prabowo Subianto to shift low-income housing policy towards multi-story solutions.

East Jakarta City Government Repaints Road Kerbs in Malaka Jaya Ahead of 81st Independence Day

The East Jakarta City Government is repainting road kerbs along Jalan I Gusti Ngurah Rai and Jalan RS Soekamto in Malaka Jaya to enhance the area's aesthetics ahead of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. A total of 16 public facilities maintenance workers have been deployed to repaint the faded kerbs in the traditional black and white colours. The initiative aims to beautify the city and improve safety and comfort for motorists, particularly at night.

The Slow Fade of Culture

A cultural philosopher argues that Indonesia is mistaking the display of tradition for the practice of culture. While festivals and traditional attire proliferate, the underlying values of wisdom, dialogue, and communal responsibility are fading. The core challenge is reviving a way of thinking, not merely preserving its symbols.

Symbols and Meanings of Weapons in the Novel 'Tenggelamnya Kapal Van Der Wicjk'

An anthropological analysis of Hamka's novel reveals how the weapons used by its characters symbolise a clash between Javanese feudal-patrilineal culture and Minangkabau egalitarian-matriarchal society. The keris, wielded by Datuk Mantari Labiah, represents Javanese hierarchical power, while the pisau belati used by Pendekar Sutan embodies Minangkabau egalitarianism. The conflict highlights the cultural tensions underlying the dispute over customary land inheritance.

AI in Management: Replacing Humans or Transforming How We Work?

The rapid adoption of artificial intelligence in Indonesian management is reshaping roles rather than eliminating them, with AI taking over data-heavy informational tasks. Major firms like Bank Central Asia are implementing AI with a 'human-in-the-loop' approach, ensuring final decisions remain with people. The shift allows managers to focus more on interpersonal leadership, empathy, and ethical judgement, areas where machines still fall short.

Forest Fire Task Force Extinguishes 8.5 Hectares of Land Fires in Sungai Rotan

A joint task force in Muara Enim Regency, South Sumatra, successfully extinguished 8.5 hectares of forest and land fires in Suka Maju Village after a nine-day operation. The team, comprising BPBD, Manggala Agni, military, police, and local volunteers, battled the blaze using ground equipment and water bombing helicopters. The operation concluded with no remaining fire hotspots reported in the Muara Enim area.

BI Says Economy Resilient Amid Global Uncertainty

Bank Indonesia's acting governor reported that the Indonesian economy showed resilience in the first half of 2026, with a trade surplus and strong foreign portfolio inflows. However, the central bank stressed the need to strengthen external resilience to mitigate the impact of global uncertainty, including geopolitical tensions and US interest rate expectations. Inflation remained within the target range, supported by consistent monetary policy and government measures to control prices.

Manggala Agni continues forest and land fire suppression at three South Sumatra locations

Firefighting teams are still working to extinguish forest and land fires across three sites in South Sumatra, with a total burned area reaching 22 hectares. The fires, affecting peatlands and scrub in Ogan Ilir and Ogan Komering Ilir regencies, are proving difficult to fully suppress due to underground embers and receding water sources. Authorities are conducting mopping-up operations to prevent the fires from spreading further.

BPS: Abundant Food Commodity Supply Influences Deflation in Yogyakarta During July

The Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY) experienced deflation of 0.31 percent month-to-month in July 2026, driven primarily by an abundant supply of horticultural commodities which pushed down consumer prices. The food, beverage, and tobacco group was the main contributor to the decline, with significant price drops in chillies, shallots, and tomatoes. Despite the monthly deflation, the province's annual inflation rate remained relatively controlled at 2.54 percent.

Home Affairs Minister: Dukcapil Data to Become Foundation of Digital Public Services

Minister of Home Affairs Tito Karnavian has stated that population and civil registration data (Dukcapil) will serve as the primary foundation for Indonesia's e-government system. The government is accelerating the integration of this data, which covers 99% of the population, to streamline public services across various sectors. A multi-year budget of Rp 3.5 trillion has been allocated to strengthen the necessary digital infrastructure and cybersecurity.

WIKA Books Rp6.91 Trillion in New Contracts up to June 2026, Supporting Indonesia's Strategic Projects

State-owned construction firm PT Wijaya Karya (WIKA) secured Rp6.91 trillion in new contracts up to June 2026, driven by strategic projects in construction support, infrastructure, and energy. The largest share came from the construction support industry, followed closely by infrastructure and building projects. The achievement underscores sustained government and private sector confidence in WIKA's capability to deliver national strategic projects.

Bahlil Confirms Only GAG Nikel Mine Still Operating in Raja Ampat

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has confirmed that PT GAG Nikel, a subsidiary of state-owned Antam, is the sole mining company still permitted to operate in the biodiverse Raja Ampat region. The government revoked four other mining permits in 2025 following public complaints, as some encroached on protected areas. GAG Nikel's operations were temporarily suspended for an environmental audit but have since been allowed to resume.

Unaja Supports UMKM Pempek Ay with Production and Digital Marketing Boost

Universitas Adiwangsa Jambi (Unaja) has provided equipment and training to UMKM Pempek Ay Ikan Tenggiri to enhance its competitiveness. The programme aims to increase production capacity by 40% and turnover by 30% through modern machinery, professional packaging, and digital marketing integration. The initiative, funded by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, seeks to establish the product as a nationally competitive souvenir from Jambi.

Padang BPBD Evacuates Residents from Flood-Hit Areas

The Padang Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) evacuated dozens of residents trapped by flooding in Kuranji District on Monday. Heavy and prolonged rainfall caused water to inundate roads and homes, with priority given to vulnerable groups including the elderly, children, and pregnant women. Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant against further hydrometeorological hazards.