Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 5 August 2026

Showing 1-50 of 1,487 articles

Enjoying the Sunset by Canoe in Rob-Flooded Rice Fields

Residents of Pekalongan, Central Java, have transformed rice fields permanently inundated by tidal flooding into a canoeing tourism destination. The community-led initiative allows visitors to paddle across the waterlogged paddies while watching the sunset, turning an environmental challenge into a local economic opportunity.

TelkomGroup Plants 20,000 Mangroves to Strengthen Coastal Ecosystem Resilience

TelkomGroup has planted 20,000 mangrove seedlings in Central Java and East Nusa Tenggara as part of its GoZero% sustainability initiative. The action, involving multiple subsidiaries, aims to mitigate coastal abrasion, support carbon absorption, and mark International Mangrove and Nature Conservation Days. The programme aligns with the company's commitment to environmental stewardship and community empowerment in its operational areas.

Purbaya: Finance Ministry to Take Over 60 Percent Stake in Whoosh

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has announced that the Ministry of Finance will assume a 60 percent stake in the Whoosh high-speed rail project by mid-September 2026. The shares, previously held by a consortium of state-owned enterprises, will be managed through a Special Mission Vehicle to avoid directly burdening the state budget. The government is also exploring the possibility of extending the high-speed rail route to East Java.

KAI Halts Train Services Following 5.3 Magnitude Earthquake

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) temporarily suspended train services on several routes in West Java after a 5.3 magnitude earthquake struck. The suspension, affecting the Siliwangi train among others, was a safety procedure to allow for thorough inspections of tracks, bridges, and tunnels. KAI apologised for potential delays but emphasised that passenger safety remains the top priority.

Indonesia's Beauty Industry Offers Promising Business and Investment Prospects

Indonesia's beauty industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by rising demand for personal care and cosmetic products. The 16th IndoBeauty Expo in Jakarta is capitalising on this momentum, bringing together 65 companies from eight countries to foster partnerships and investment. The event features business matching programmes and seminars aimed at boosting the global competitiveness of the national beauty sector.

Two Bodies of Hikers Recovered from Mount Piramid in Bondowoso After 13-Hour Evacuation

A joint search and rescue team successfully evacuated the bodies of two hikers from Mount Piramid in Bondowoso, East Java, after a gruelling 13-hour operation. The victims, a 51-year-old woman and her 35-year-old guide, were found deceased after being reported missing for two days. Difficult terrain and adverse weather conditions prolonged the recovery effort.

Madiun District Attorney's Office Destroys Evidence from 21 Criminal Cases

The Madiun District Attorney's Office in East Java has destroyed evidence from 21 criminal cases with permanent legal force, with narcotics offences dominating the caseload. The destruction, carried out by burning, cutting, and crushing, covered the period from May to July 2026. Officials emphasised the action was part of the execution of court rulings to prevent misuse and uphold professional, integrity-driven law enforcement.

Ministry of Public Works Reorganisation Requires Internal Support

A public policy expert has stated that the reorganisation of Indonesia's Ministry of Public Works requires full internal support to ensure effective bureaucratic reform. Trubus Rahardiansyah noted that while resistance to structural changes is normal, the process must be based on objective performance evaluations and transparent communication. The ministry has recently been under scrutiny regarding various issues, including employee mutations and the minister's official travel.

From MBG to global campuses: Indonesia's human capital blueprint

Indonesia is rolling out an ambitious human capital strategy, starting with the Free Nutritious Meal programme to tackle stunting in the critical first thousand days of life. This nutritional foundation is complemented by a tiered education system, including Sekolah Rakyat for the poorest, Sekolah Garuda for high achievers, and new integrated schools to bridge the gap. The government is also strengthening higher education through global partnerships, such as hosting an Indian Institute of Management campus, to align educational outcomes with public sector and labour market needs.

IPR urges public not to be provoked by hoax content on demonstrations

The director of Indonesia Political Review has called on the public to improve digital literacy and avoid being provoked by hoax content about 'August demonstrations' circulating on social media. He warned that the coordinated spread of old protest videos with provocative narratives appears to be a systematic attempt to manipulate public opinion and incite hatred. The National Police confirmed they are investigating the hoax videos and reminded citizens to share only factual information.

Iran's Economic Losses from Operation Epic Fury Soar to Rp4,400 Trillion

Iran's total economic losses from Operation Epic Fury have reached an estimated US$280 billion (approximately Rp4,400 trillion), according to a Tehran municipality expert. The figure accounts only for direct damage during the initial 40-day intensive combat phase, excluding subsequent operations, naval blockades, and intangible costs. Tehran's District 4, home to key military and suspected nuclear facilities, suffered the most severe damage with 90 confirmed strikes.

Indonesia eyes bigger role in global Hajj food supply chain

Indonesia is seeking to expand its role in supplying food for the global Hajj and Umrah market, moving beyond ready-to-eat meals to include raw commodities like rice, meat, and spices. The initiative, discussed at an Indonesia–Saudi Arabia business forum, aims to integrate the country's agriculture, livestock, and fisheries sectors into the pilgrim supply chain. This push is expected to boost national exports and create added value for local farmers, MSMEs, and the wider logistics industry.

Dangin Puri Kauh Village Requests Land and Vehicle Grants from Denpasar City Government, Approved by DPRD

The Dangin Puri Kauh Village Government has requested a grant of land and two motorcycles from the Denpasar City Government to support its operations. The request, which includes a 300-square-metre plot of land currently used as the village office, has been approved by Commissions I and II of the Denpasar Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD). The asset transfer is intended to provide permanent legal status for the village's operational facilities and is being conducted in accordance with national and regional regulations.

Israel Raids Palestinian Refugee Camp in West Bank, 20 Arrested

Israeli forces have raided the Qalandiya refugee camp in the occupied West Bank, arresting at least 20 Palestinians. The operation, which began late Tuesday, is part of an intensified campaign of raids across multiple camps, which critics say is aimed at intimidation and forced displacement. Israeli officials claim the actions target terrorism and illegal weapons, while local sources report soldiers occupying rooftops and restricting access for both residents and the press.

Police Uncover Illegal Liquor Factory in Bogor, One Arrested

Police in Bogor, West Java, have dismantled an illegal liquor operation run from a house in Sukaraja, arresting a man identified as M. The suspect was caught while delivering 240 bottles of counterfeit 'arak bali' and is accused of mixing raw alcohol with refilled mineral water to produce the illicit drinks. Authorities seized over 1,300 bottles of liquor, dozens of jerry cans of raw alcohol, and packaging materials from the makeshift factory.

Lion Parcel Says Packages Under 300 Grams Increasingly Dominate Online Shopping

Lion Parcel reports a surge in lightweight package deliveries driven by online shopping trends, with many items weighing under 300 grams. Customers have complained about paying for a full kilogram, prompting the company to launch a specialised service called MINIPACK. The new service offers significantly reduced rates for lightweight shipments on various domestic routes.

Ministry of Law and Human Rights Holds First Meeting on NCP Formation to Accelerate OECD Accession

Indonesia's Ministry of Law and Human Rights has convened the inaugural meeting to discuss the establishment of a National Contact Point (NCP) aimed at strengthening responsible business conduct. The initiative, which involves key economic ministries and civil society organisations, is designed to align the country's business practices with human rights standards. The formation of the NCP is seen as a critical step to expedite Indonesia's accession to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Indonesia showcases community vaccine model to global delegations

Indonesia has presented its community-based immunisation model, the Posyandu, to international delegations as a successful example of collaborative public health. The Ministry of Health highlighted the Posyandu's role in integrating maternal and child healthcare with active community participation to boost vaccination coverage. The initiative is part of broader efforts to overcome challenges like misinformation and achieve zero-dose targets in preparation for the Golden Generation 2045 vision.

China Tightens Drone Export Controls to the US Amid Rising Tensions

China has imposed stricter export controls on drones and dual-use items to the United States, citing national security concerns. The move follows heightened trade and technology tensions, with Beijing also launching a national security investigation into imported office equipment. The restrictions are seen as a direct response to recent US measures targeting Chinese technology firms and military-linked imports.

US Airlines Ban Humanoid Robots on Flights, Citing Safety Concerns

Major US airlines, including United and Delta, have begun prohibiting humanoid and animal-like robots in cabins and cargo holds due to safety risks associated with their lithium-ion batteries. The restrictions follow an incident on a Southwest Airlines flight and are described as a proactive measure against the growing prevalence of robotic technology. Experts support the bans on safety grounds but note they may pose logistical challenges for researchers needing to transport such devices.

Rosan Roeslani Signs Investment MoU with Saudi Arabia, Targeting Downstreaming and Renewable Energy

Indonesia and Saudi Arabia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to bolster direct investment cooperation, focusing on strategic sectors including downstream processing and renewable energy. The agreement, signed by Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani in Jeddah, aims to transform the two nations' historic ties into a more productive economic partnership. It establishes a framework for institutional coordination, information exchange, and joint investment promotion activities.

Batam Faces Shortage of 500 Teachers, Education Agency Validates 4,877 Educators

Batam City is grappling with a deficit of approximately 500 teachers, primarily affecting state junior high schools on the mainland. The local Education Agency is conducting physical validation of 4,877 educators to obtain accurate data for policy formulation. The initiative aims to ensure equitable teacher distribution and prevent the existence of fictitious employees on the payroll.

Don't Wait to Be Wealthy: The Best Time to Start Investing in Gold for Retirement

Financial experts advise that the best time to begin investing in gold for retirement is as early as possible, rather than waiting for a higher income or a drop in gold prices. Starting young allows for gradual accumulation and reduces the pressure of making large purchases later in life. Gold is best used as a complementary asset within a diversified retirement portfolio, alongside instruments like stocks and bonds.

1,500 MSMEs Join Online Shopping Festival, Discounts Await

BCA UMKM Fest 2026 has launched online, featuring 1,500 micro, small, and medium enterprises from various sectors. The festival, running from 1 August to 20 September, offers daily discounts and special promotions in collaboration with Grab and Blibli. An offline event will also be held later in August at Indonesia Arena, Senayan.

Klaten Job Fair 2026 Offers 6,916 Vacancies

The Klaten Regency Government has launched the Klaten Job Fair 2026, offering 6,916 job vacancies across various sectors. The event aims to connect local job seekers directly with employers and address the annual influx of new graduates into the workforce. It features 51 stands, including companies from Klaten, Yogyakarta, and Central Java, as well as training institutions and migrant worker placement agencies.

Tangsel Fun Run Fiasco: Criminal Law Expert Says Fraud Elements Met, Police Can Investigate

A criminal law lecturer has urged South Tangerang Police to launch a fraud investigation into the chaotic Tangsel Fun Run & Walk, arguing the event organiser's actions constitute a criminal offence, not just an administrative violation. The expert highlighted the unauthorised use of the city government's logo as a deceitful tactic to attract paying participants. This call for police intervention follows public outrage over missing facilities and undelivered medals at the event.

Undana Denies Student's 12-Time Thesis Exam Cancellation, Calls It Hoax

Nusa Cendana University (Undana) has refuted viral claims that a public health student had her thesis examination cancelled 12 times, labelling the information a hoax. A university official clarified that the delays involved adjustments to proposal and result seminar schedules, not the final exam, attributing them to common scheduling conflicts. The university also denied the student was suffering from depression, stating she was experiencing fatigue and anxiety and is now recovering at home.

KPK Reveals Forestry Ministry Official Allegedly Received SGD 12,500 from Kuansing Regent

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has disclosed that a Forestry Ministry official allegedly received SGD 12,500 from the inactive Regent of Kuantan Singingi, Suhardiman Amby. The payment is suspected to be linked to the release of limited production forest areas. The KPK is continuing its investigation by examining witnesses to uncover the full extent of the alleged bribery scheme.

NTT Corrections Office Celebrates Independence Day to Strengthen Inmate Rehabilitation

The Nusa Tenggara Timur (NTT) Regional Office of the Directorate General of Corrections has launched a series of activities to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, beginning with a sports week at the Class IA Special Child Development Institution in Kupang. The initiative aims to foster a sense of togetherness and sportsmanship between inmates and correctional officers. The events are part of broader efforts to enhance the rehabilitation and development of inmates in the region.

M5.3 Pangandaran Earthquake Tremors Felt in Bandung

A tectonic earthquake with a magnitude of 5.3 struck off the southwest coast of Pangandaran, West Java, on Wednesday evening. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) confirmed the shallow quake did not trigger a tsunami but was felt as far away as Bandung and Sukabumi regencies. One minor aftershock of magnitude 2.2 was recorded following the main event.

Prosecutors Search Pamekasan Regent's Office in Rp2.9 Billion Road Project Corruption Probe

Indonesian prosecutors have expanded their search to the Pamekasan regency administration offices as part of an investigation into alleged corruption involving a Rp2.9 billion road construction project. The search targeted the Economic Affairs and Procurement sections to secure additional evidence. The project was reportedly funded by the 2025 Tobacco Excise Revenue Sharing Fund.

SMA Negeri 2 Brebes Students Required to Store Phones Before Lessons to Meet SOP Standards

SMA Negeri 2 Brebes in Central Java has implemented a new standard operating procedure requiring all students to deposit their mobile phones in designated storage before classes begin. The policy, aligned with a ministerial circular, aims to create a more orderly and focused learning environment by limiting smartphone use to teacher-directed educational activities only. Students may retrieve their devices after school hours, with violations subject to disciplinary action.

Islamic Children's Book Industry Relies on Interactive Innovation to Attract Reading Interest

The Islamic children's book industry in Indonesia is adapting to the digital era by developing interactive books that combine visual, audio, and learning elements to maintain children's reading interest. Publisher Ziyadbooks has pioneered sound books and other innovations, recently winning a Brand Indonesia Excellence Award for its efforts. The industry views this interactive approach as essential for keeping physical books relevant while instilling Islamic values and character education in the Alpha generation.

Smog Blankets Palembang as Forest and Land Fires Spread Across Sumatra

The city of Palembang has been shrouded in thick smog as forest and land fires continue to rage across parts of Sumatra and Kalimantan. Satellite monitoring has detected smoke distribution affecting air quality and reducing visibility in several provinces. Authorities are conducting patrols, firefighting operations, and weather modification efforts to control the spread of hotspots and mitigate the impact on communities.

South Kalimantan Job Fair 2026 Opens Dozens of Vacancies for People with Disabilities

The South Kalimantan provincial government launched the 2026 Job Fair in Banjarmasin, offering 2,500 vacancies from 46 companies and agencies. The event includes dozens of positions specifically for people with disabilities and 350 overseas job placements. Organisers are facilitating on-site interviews and providing training to ensure legal and proper recruitment procedures.

South Sumatra High Prosecutor's Office Recovers Rp127 Billion in State Losses Through Mediation with Haji Halim's Family

The South Sumatra High Prosecutor's Office has recovered Rp127 billion in state losses through mediation with the heirs of the late Haji Halim, a businessman implicated in a corruption case involving state land. The case was declared void by law following Halim's death, prompting a shift from criminal to civil proceedings. The recovered funds are earmarked for palm oil plantation development in Musi Banyuasin to benefit the local community.

Hensa Clarifies to Tax Office After Podcast Inviting Ferry Latuhihin

Political observer Hendri Satrio has clarified his summons by the Directorate General of Taxes following a podcast featuring economist Ferry Latuhihin. Satrio praised the professionalism of tax officials and stated the questioning focused solely on whether Latuhihin received payment for his appearance. He confirmed that guests on his podcast receive only cookies or fruit, not cash honorariums.

Malaysian Police Identify Drug Supplier to Pilot Who Smuggled Narcotics into Indonesia

Malaysian authorities have identified a Kuala Lumpur International Airport security staff member as the suspected supplier of ecstasy to a Malaysia Airlines co-pilot arrested in Jakarta. The suspect allegedly obtained the drugs at an apartment in Ampang before checking in a bag containing the narcotics. The co-pilot was detained at Soekarno-Hatta Airport with 26 kilogrammes of ecstasy and methamphetamine.

Italy urges continued dialogue on Strait of Hormuz

Italy has stressed the importance of ongoing dialogue regarding the Strait of Hormuz, as negotiations between Iran and Oman continue. The talks follow a memorandum of understanding between Iran and the United States aimed at resolving the conflict and ensuring freedom of navigation. Italy has also reaffirmed its commitment to promoting security and peace in the Middle East.

Malaysia Deploys Police to Secure Airports After Pilot's Drug Smuggling Arrest in Indonesia

The Malaysian government is deploying Royal Malaysia Police personnel to bolster airport security following the arrest of a Malaysian pilot for attempting to smuggle 26 kilogrammes of drugs into Indonesia. The cabinet has ordered immediate improvements, including replacing auxiliary police with regular officers in the Aviation Security unit and reviewing background check protocols for flight crew. Authorities are also investigating security loopholes and will consider a special investigation team once a full report on the ongoing case in Indonesia is available.

MRT Jakarta Develops TOD to Spur Economic Growth and Urban Mobility

PT MRT Jakarta is advancing Transit Oriented Development (TOD) to integrate public transport with residential, commercial, and office spaces, aiming to boost urban mobility and economic growth. The initiative focuses on seamless pedestrian connectivity, maximising asset value around stations, and creating self-sustaining infrastructure. The development is designed to encourage public transport use and enhance the quality of urban life in the capital.

Bekasi Councillor Charged with Assault Resulting in Injury

A member of the Bekasi Regency Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) has been formally charged with joint assault causing injury. The trial commenced at the Cikarang District Court, where prosecutors detailed the alleged attack at a restaurant in October 2025. The victim's legal team has urged officials to respect the judicial process and has requested a prison surveillance probe over claims the defendant used a mobile phone while in custody.

Indonesia Eyes Stronger Trade Ties with Thailand Amid Global Shifts

Indonesia is actively seeking to bolster bilateral trade with Thailand by expanding market access and diversifying exports, according to Trade Minister Budi Santoso. The two ASEAN economic powerhouses aim to build on their USD 17.7 billion trade value from 2025, with a focus on integrating MSMEs into global value chains. This push for deeper regional cooperation is framed as a strategic response to global uncertainties, leveraging Indonesia's domestic market and natural resources.

Foreign Investors Net IDR 1.62 Trillion in July, Boost IDX: OJK

Foreign investors recorded net purchases of IDR 1.62 trillion in Indonesia's stock market in July 2026, signalling a recovery in market sentiment and easing of previous sell-offs. The Jakarta Composite Index surged 10.5 percent month-on-month to close at 6,236.13, supported by improved domestic and global conditions. The Financial Services Authority also noted robust capital raising activity and a significant expansion in investor accounts, reflecting growing confidence in the Indonesian capital market.

North Kalimantan Showcases Strategic Investments to Foreign Ambassadors

North Kalimantan Governor Zainal A. Paliwang has pitched major green energy and infrastructure projects to foreign ambassadors at an Apindo forum in Makassar. Key proposals include the 9,000 MW Mentarang and Kayan hydropower plants, the Indonesian Green Industrial Estate, and a toll road to the new capital Nusantara. The provincial government emphasised its strategic location and low market competition to attract early global investment partnerships.

Indonesia extends food aid and holiday travel discounts for late 2026

The Indonesian government has announced the extension of its food assistance programme, providing 10-kilogramme rice packages to 33.24 million beneficiaries, alongside travel discounts for the year-end holiday period. Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto also outlined plans to expand the National Internship Programme to 150,000 participants and launch vocational training for 250,000 youths. The initiatives are part of a broader economic stimulus package that includes tourism promotion across 33 destinations and new international flight routes to boost foreign arrivals.

US Allocates Additional Rp3.8 Trillion to Combat Ebola Outbreak in Congo

The United States has announced an additional US$242 million in funding to fight the worsening Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, bringing its total financial contribution to over US$500 million. Washington is urging other nations to increase their support as the World Health Organization visits the country to assess the situation. The outbreak has already resulted in 3,874 confirmed cases and 1,751 deaths.

Unfriendly Waves: Bawean Island Resident Charters Plane to Evacuate Mother

A businessman from Bawean Island spent Rp110 million to charter a Susi Air plane to fly his critically ill mother to Surabaya after rough seas halted medical oxygen supplies. The local hospital's oxygen stock was nearly depleted due to extreme weather preventing logistics ships from sailing for days. The Gresik Health Office has since prepared 40 emergency oxygen cylinders for delivery and is coordinating with the navy for potential further distribution.

Manufacturing Outpaces Economy, Minister: Industrialisation on Right Track

Indonesia's manufacturing sector grew 5.32 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026, surpassing the national economic growth rate of 5.29 percent. Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita stated this performance validates the government's industrialisation strategy, which focuses on downstreaming and strengthening domestic industrial structure. The minister also highlighted the need to boost domestic production of raw materials to reduce reliance on consumer goods imports, which surged 27.15 percent.

Purbaya: Babinsa and Bhabinkamtibmas Not Deployed for Tax Collection

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has clarified that village supervisory non-commissioned officers (Babinsa) and community police officers (Bhabinkamtibmas) are not being used to collect taxes. He stated their role is strictly limited to providing security for tax officials in the field, not revenue collection. The clarification follows public concern over a recent Directorate General of Taxes circular regarding taxpayer compliance supervision.