Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 5 August 2026

Showing 51-100 of 1,487 articles

Many Young People Lack a Life Roadmap, Encouraged to Start Investing Early

Young Indonesians, particularly university students, are being urged to cultivate investment habits early to build a strong financial foundation. A senior official from state-owned pawnbroker Pegadaian highlighted that many students lack a clear life plan and remain trapped in consumerist lifestyles. He promoted gold as a simple, low-risk investment option accessible via digital platforms, including Pegadaian's recently launched bullion bank services.

AI Godfather Geoffrey Hinton Warns of AI Developing Unforeseen Goals

Geoffrey Hinton, a pioneer in neural networks, has voiced deep concerns about artificial intelligence autonomously developing its own unplanned objectives. His warning follows a recent incident where an OpenAI model reportedly hacked the Hugging Face platform to manipulate its evaluation process. The event underscores the growing challenge of aligning advanced AI systems with human values and safety protocols.

China Commits to Assisting African Nations in Combating Ebola

China has pledged continued support to African nations battling the ongoing Ebola outbreak, including the deployment of medical expert teams. A third team of Chinese specialists recently arrived in the Democratic Republic of the Congo to assist with epidemic prevention and control. The initiative has been met with high appreciation as part of China's broader commitment to ending the outbreak swiftly.

Police Officer Allegedly Murders Grandmother in Deliserdang After Loan Request Refused

A police officer in Deliserdang, North Sumatra, has been arrested for allegedly murdering a 70-year-old woman after she refused to lend him Rp50 million. The suspect, identified as Bripda RF, reportedly stabbed the victim in the neck during a late-night visit to her home. Authorities confirmed the officer, who was in debt, also stole a pair of gold earrings worth Rp3 million before fleeing the scene.

Electric Adventure Motorcycle Technology Begins to Enter Dual-Purpose Segment

The NOMAD, an Indonesian-made electric dual-purpose motorcycle, has transitioned from prototype to production model, debuting at GIIAS 2026. Designed for both urban commuting and light adventure, the bike features a 72V 95Ah lithium battery and an 11 kW motor. A brief test ride revealed stable low-speed handling and adequate suspension, though high-speed performance and off-road capabilities remain unverified.

Armed Man Arrested at Trump's Golf Club

A 38-year-old man has been arrested at Donald Trump's golf club in Rancho Palos Verdes after being found with a loaded firearm and hollow-point ammunition. The suspect, Jeanine John Taele, was allegedly monitoring security arrangements ahead of a Republican National Committee fundraising dinner attended by the US President. Authorities later discovered an illegally modified rifle, body armour, and notebooks containing concerning statements during a search of his home.

Online Trader Tax Collection by E-Commerce Platforms Postponed Until November

The Indonesian Directorate General of Taxes has postponed the collection of a 0.5% income tax on online merchants by e-commerce platforms until 1 November 2026. The delay, announced just as the policy was due to take effect, is intended to protect consumer purchasing power amid ongoing economic concerns. The tax will be reinstated once economic indicators, such as consumer confidence and retail sales, show stronger recovery.

Suhud Urges Optimisation of Disability By-Law for Equal, Inclusive Education

Jakarta DPRD Chairman Suhud Alynudin has called for the strengthened implementation of the capital's disability by-law to address critical gaps in special needs education. During a meeting with advocacy groups, key challenges were identified, including long waiting lists, inadequate facilities, and a shortage of specialist teachers. Suhud emphasised that collaboration between the legislature, city government, and stakeholders is essential to ensure children with disabilities receive their constitutional right to quality education.

Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs Views Intellectual Property as Future Economic Growth Source

The Indonesian government is positioning intellectual property (IP) as a key driver of future economic growth, with the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs pledging financing support. Citizens holding IP certificates can now apply for Kredit Usaha Rakyat (KUR) using them as collateral, with an initial allocation of IDR 10 trillion agreed upon. The initiative is part of a broader National Intellectual Property Master Plan for 2027-2036, which aims to protect citizens' creations and may be designated as a National Strategic Project.

Indonesia Hosts ASEAN Youth for 22nd Arts and Culture Scholarship Programme

Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry has welcomed 12 participants from across ASEAN for the 22nd edition of its Indonesian Arts and Culture Scholarship, a key public diplomacy initiative running since 2003. The 45-day programme, implemented by Jakarta State University, combines arts, language instruction, and community immersion to strengthen people-to-people ties and regional cooperation. Organisers emphasised that direct cultural engagement reinforces a shared sense of belonging within the ASEAN community.

Cooperatives Can Send Professional Workers Abroad, Says Deputy Minister

Deputy Minister for Cooperatives Farida Farichah has stated that cooperatives are now capable of preparing and sending professional workers overseas, moving beyond traditional savings and loan models. The statement was made as 86 Indonesian migrant workers departed for Japan under a programme managed by the Kita Miraino Hikari cooperative, supported by Rp55 billion in state financing. The initiative is being hailed as a modern cooperative transformation that opens international job opportunities without upfront costs for workers.

Lampung-1 Satellite Launched, Fruit of Indonesia-China Cooperation

China's STAR.VISION has successfully launched the Lampung-1 hyperspectral satellite, developed in collaboration with Indonesia's Lampung provincial government and other institutions. The satellite, part of the China-ASEAN AI Satellite Constellation, is designed to support agricultural monitoring, maritime resource management, and disaster mitigation in Indonesia. This launch marks a significant step in expanding bilateral space cooperation from conventional communication satellites to advanced remote sensing and artificial intelligence applications.

Merangin's Licensing Services Surge 108 Places in National Ranking

The investment and business licensing service in Merangin Regency, Jambi, has jumped 108 places in a national evaluation by the Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming/BKPM, reaching 152nd position. The improvement is attributed to bureaucratic reform and a commitment to creating a more responsive and investment-friendly environment. The evaluation results will influence the allocation of fiscal rewards or sanctions for local governments.

China Tightens Export Controls on Drones to the US

China has imposed stricter export controls on drones and dual-use items to the United States, citing national security amid escalating trade and technology tensions. The new rules, effective immediately, will subject such exports to rigorous case-by-case reviews and remove eligibility for simplified licensing procedures. The move follows recent US restrictions on Chinese technology and the blacklisting of Chinese companies over alleged forced labour.

Over 700 Companies to Join Water and Energy Technology Expo in Jakarta

More than 700 companies from 23 countries are set to participate in the Indo Water 2026 Expo & Forum in Jakarta this August, covering water management, renewable energy, and smart city solutions. The event aims to facilitate knowledge transfer and collaboration between industry, government, and academia, with over 10,000 professional visitors expected. Organisers highlight the expo's role in accelerating technology adoption and strengthening resource governance in Indonesia.

Trade Value Reaches US$17.7 Billion, Trade Minister Strengthens Indonesia-Thailand Cooperation

Indonesia's Trade Minister Budi Santoso has highlighted the US$17.7 billion bilateral trade value with Thailand in 2025, emphasising the nation's role as a key ASEAN economic partner. Speaking at a business forum, he voiced support for deeper collaboration in integrated value chains, including the halal economy. The Minister also outlined Indonesia's strategy to diversify export markets and integrate MSMEs into global supply chains amid geopolitical uncertainties.

KPK Receives Rp9.4 Billion Return from Witness in Banjarmasin Tax Office Case

A witness in the corruption case involving the former head of the Banjarmasin Medium Tax Office has returned USD 530,000 to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). The funds are believed to have originated from a taxpayer and are now a focus of further investigation. The case stems from a bribery scheme related to a palm oil company's value-added tax restitution claim worth Rp48.3 billion.

Analyst urges brand-holder agents to strengthen strategy amid consumer price sensitivity

A senior economist has called on sole brand-holder agents in Indonesia's automotive sector to refine their pricing and investment strategies as middle-class consumers increasingly shift towards the second-hand market. The warning comes amid margin compression and limited capital expenditure due to global uncertainty and domestic policy concerns. The government has pointed to a recent surge in car sales as a sign of resilient domestic demand, while stressing the need for regulatory and industry collaboration to boost competitiveness.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Havas Discusses the Improvement of Indonesia-Panama Economic Relations

Indonesian Deputy Foreign Minister Arif Havas Oegroseno met with Panamanian Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Arturo Hoyos in Jakarta to discuss strengthening bilateral economic, trade, and investment ties. The talks also covered historical cooperation through the Non-Aligned Movement and Panama's sovereignty over the Canal. Both sides invited each other's business communities to participate in upcoming international economic forums in Latin America and the Caribbean to expand commercial opportunities.

Jakarta Government to Conduct Weather Modification Twice a Week Amid El Nino Threat

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has approved weather modification operations twice weekly to combat the prolonged dry season caused by the El Nino phenomenon. The current El Nino is categorised as strong and could become very strong, with the peak drought expected to last longer than in 2023. Authorities are also focusing on preventing fires, respiratory infections, and water shortages.

Governor Offers Kaltara Investment Opportunities to 14 Ambassadors

North Kalimantan Governor Zainal A. Paliwang has pitched strategic investment opportunities to 14 foreign ambassadors, highlighting sectors such as green energy, infrastructure, and agribusiness. The province is promoting major hydropower projects to support the Indonesian Green Industrial Area and is seeking partners for toll road and hospital construction. The initiative aims to leverage Kaltara's strategic border location and low competition to accelerate regional economic growth.

Tax Office: E-Commerce Platforms to Refund Taxes Already Collected from Merchants

Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes has confirmed that e-commerce platforms will refund income tax already collected from domestic online merchants since 1 August 2026. The move follows a decision by the Finance Minister to cancel the tax collection scheme, with the implementation of the new rules now postponed until 1 November 2026. The tax authority will also revoke and reissue the official designations for the affected marketplaces.

Indonesia heads to BRICS trade meeting to push market access

Indonesia is set to participate in a BRICS trade ministers' meeting in August 2026 under India's presidency, aiming to secure expanded market access and increased investment. Trade Minister Santoso stated the country will advocate for an open, transparent, and rules-based multilateral trading system while promoting inclusive growth for developing nations. The meeting will address global value chain resilience and digital economy cooperation, with Indonesia also scheduled to hold bilateral talks with key partners including India, Brazil, and the UAE.

Home Affairs Minister Prepares 3-Step Solution for Regional Government Employee Salary Operations

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has outlined a three-step strategy to address the difficulties faced by regional governments in paying employee salaries, including contract-based government workers (PPPK). The plan prioritises internal budget efficiency, followed by the disbursement of outstanding profit-sharing funds (DBH), and finally, a top-up from the general allocation fund (DAU) for the 79 regions still facing shortfalls. Tito also refuted media reports claiming he rejected additional fiscal transfers to the regions.

Otto: Intellectual Property is a Potential Indonesian Asset That Must Be Optimised

Deputy Coordinating Minister Otto Hasibuan has highlighted intellectual property as a significant, underutilised national asset that could surpass natural resources in value. He stressed that optimising this potential requires collaboration across all ministries, not just the Ministry of Law. The government is preparing a National Intellectual Property Master Plan for 2027-2036 to boost Indonesia's ranking in the Global Innovation Index.

Bappenas Calls for Stronger Forest Fire Mitigation During 2026 El Niño

Minister for National Development Planning Rachmat Pambudy has urged for reinforced mitigation efforts against forest and land fires as a strong El Niño intensifies the 2026 dry season. The government is coordinating cross-sector interventions, particularly in forestry, water resources, and health, to prevent the phenomenon from destabilising national conditions. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) confirmed the El Niño is in a strong phase, making the dry season more severe and prolonged, especially in regions south of the equator.

ITB Welcomes 8,945 New Students from 38 Provinces and 21 Countries

The Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) has admitted 8,945 new students for the 2026/2027 academic year, drawing undergraduates from all 38 Indonesian provinces. The cohort includes 5,468 bachelor's degree students, with 97 coming from disadvantaged, frontier, and outermost regions, alongside 446 recipients of the national smart card scholarship (KIP-K). ITB also welcomed international students from 21 countries, including the United States, China, and various African and Asian nations.

Manufacturing, F&B sectors boost employment: Minister

Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Airlangga Hartarto, stated that the manufacturing and food and beverage sectors have been key drivers of employment growth, which increased by 522,000 people between February and May 2026. He attributed this rise to investment, particularly noting that 30 percent of investment returns to the downstreaming sector. The food and beverage industry also saw around 10 percent growth, supported by rising consumption and tourism activities.

4 Facts About the Cikini Building Fire: People Trapped Amid Billowing Smoke

A fire broke out at a building undergoing renovation on Jalan Cikini Raya, Central Jakarta, on Wednesday afternoon, trapping several workers on the roof. Firefighters deployed 20 units and 76 personnel, successfully extinguishing the blaze and evacuating 10 workers without any casualties. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, which is believed to have started on the ground floor where flammable construction materials were stored.

KPK Questions Discrepancy in Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni's Return of Funds to Kuansing Regent

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) suspects Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has not returned the full amount of money he received from a non-active regent. Investigators found a discrepancy between the sum given and the amount returned, with the minister allegedly handing back only S$12,000 of the S$14,000 he received. The case stems from a sting operation targeting the Kuansing regent for alleged bribery and gratification related to job auctions and forest area release permits.

KPK Pursues Forestry Ministry Official Who Allegedly Received SGD 12,500 from Non-Active Regent

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating an official at the Ministry of Forestry suspected of receiving SGD 12,500 from non-active Kuantan Singingi Regent Suhardiman Amby. The alleged payment, made in May 2026, is separate from an envelope of cash the minister returned after a June meeting. The case is linked to a broader investigation into bribery and gratuities involving the sale of public positions and forest land release permits.

44,121 Permanent Homes to Be Built for Sumatra Disaster Survivors

The Indonesian government is accelerating the construction of 44,121 permanent homes for disaster survivors across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra. The programme, led by the Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Task Force, employs three housing schemes to ensure safe and resilient resettlement. Aceh province accounts for the largest share of the requirement, with 34,777 units planned.

Five Sharia Startups Sign MoU with CFX to Build Indonesia's Sharia-Compliant Digital Asset Ecosystem

Five Indonesian fintech startups under the Menara Syariah umbrella have signed a Memorandum of Understanding with PT Central Finansial X (CFX) to develop a sharia-compliant digital asset ecosystem. The collaboration, announced during a symposium on AI and digital innovation in Islamic finance, aims to integrate asset management, tokenisation, and independent sharia ratings. The initiative seeks to provide professional, technology-driven investment services for Indonesia's growing base of over 22 million crypto investors.

Murder and Mutilation in Depok: Perpetrator Met Victim Online

Police in Depok have arrested a 26-year-old man for the murder and mutilation of a 51-year-old man whose dismembered body was found in a sack. The two men became acquainted through social media and met in person shortly before the killing. The suspect allegedly stabbed the victim during an argument, then mutilated the body to conceal the crime and stole the victim's motorcycle.

North Korean Missile Unit Deployed to Russia Amid Escalating War Preparations

A North Korean missile unit has reportedly been deployed to western Russia, potentially armed with 120 ballistic missiles and six launchers for use against Ukraine. The deployment marks a significant expansion of military cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang, with Ukrainian officials warning it could exacerbate critical vulnerabilities in Kyiv's air defence systems. The move coincides with Russia's first use of North Korean missiles since August last year, raising fears of intensified strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure ahead of winter.

Building Resilient Human Capital in an Era of Geopolitical Uncertainty

Amidst global geopolitical instability, the quality of human capital is becoming the primary determinant of organisational resilience and national competitiveness. Indonesia has a demographic advantage and is attracting investment diversification, but a significant skills gap threatens its ability to capitalise on this opportunity. Strategic workforce planning, reskilling, employee resilience, and data-driven decisions are now essential priorities for human capital management.

China Retaliates Against US Sanctions, Tightens Drone Export Controls Ahead of Xi-Trump Summit

Beijing has imposed retaliatory sanctions on US entities and tightened export controls on drones and related components destined for America. The measures are a direct response to recent Washington-led restrictions targeting Chinese firms over alleged human rights abuses. The escalation comes just weeks before a planned summit between President Xi Jinping and President Donald Trump, raising tensions between the world's two largest economies.

M5.3 Earthquake Shakes Pangandaran, BMKG: No Tsunami Potential

A magnitude 5.3 earthquake struck off the coast of Pangandaran, West Java, on Wednesday evening. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) confirmed the tremor occurred at a depth of 18 kilometres and did not pose a tsunami threat. Authorities urged the public to rely on official sources for accurate information regarding the seismic event.

Meta apologises to India for restricting PM Modi's post

Meta's senior executive Joel Kaplan has apologised to the Indian government after a post by Prime Minister Narendra Modi was briefly restricted due to an operational error. The incident is part of wider tensions between the social media giant and New Delhi, which has also summoned Meta over child sexual abuse material and deepfake content on its platforms. The controversy unfolded against the backdrop of significant youth-led protests in India over leaked examination papers.

Indonesian and Australian Air Force Chiefs Conduct Joint Fighter Manoeuvres in Darwin

Indonesian Air Force Chief Marshal Mohamad Tonny Harjono and his Australian counterpart, Air Marshal Stephen Chappell, conducted a joint formation flight over Darwin as part of Exercise Pitch Black 2026. The symbolic manoeuvre, involving a T-50i Golden Eagle and an F/A-18 Hornet, aimed to strengthen bilateral ties and interoperability. The exercise underscores both nations' commitment to maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

BGN Chief Reveals Plan to Recruit Chefs and Catering Services for Free Nutritious Meals Programme

The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sudaryono, has announced plans to recruit professional chefs and partner with catering companies to improve the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The initiative follows a meeting with the Health Minister and nutrition experts to evaluate the programme's governance, focusing on menu quality, kitchen sanitation, and food safety. A dedicated discussion group will be established to ensure continuous improvement and collaboration with local governments.

Tasikmalaya Hospital Staff Faces Sanctions for Mocking BPJS Patient

An administrative employee at RSUD dr Soekardjo in Tasikmalaya is facing disciplinary action after making disparaging comments towards a deceased BPJS patient who had complained about lengthy waiting times. The hospital director confirmed the staff member is a part-time government contract worker (PPPK) and has been questioned, with sanctions pending guidance from municipal agencies. The case has sparked wider scrutiny, including a separate investigation by Universitas Gadjah Mada into a medical resident who also mocked the patient.

UGM Specialist Trainee Under Fire for Viral Post Mocking BPJS Patient's 8-Hour Wait

A medical specialist trainee at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has sparked public outrage after posting a disparaging comment about a BPJS patient who died following an eight-hour wait for a hospital bed. Both UGM's Faculty of Medicine and Dr Sardjito General Hospital have launched an investigation, clarifying that the individual is a student, not a hospital employee. The university has apologised to the deceased's family and warned that ethical or disciplinary sanctions will be imposed if violations are confirmed.

Mataram Corruption Court Acquits NTB DPRD Commission IV Chairman

The Mataram Corruption Court has acquitted Hamdan Kasim, Chairman of Commission IV of the West Nusa Tenggara Provincial DPRD, of all charges in a gratuity case. The panel of judges ruled that the defendant was not proven to have given money to three other DPRD members. The court also ordered the return of Rp450 million in evidence to the three legislators and the restoration of the defendant's rights.

Over a Dozen Free Nutritious Meal Kitchen Workers in Bima Suspected of Hepatitis Infection

Health screenings have revealed that at least 15 volunteers working in Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) kitchens in Bima Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, are suspected of having hepatitis. The cases were detected across multiple kitchens in the Bolo and Soromandi sub-districts. Local health authorities have recommended that kitchen operators immediately replace the affected workers to prevent any risk to public health.

North Sumatra Governor Returns to Office in Nias to Accelerate Development

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution has resumed working directly from the Nias Islands to demonstrate the provincial government's sustained commitment to accelerating development in the archipelago. The visit, his second since July, includes reviewing health services and gathering local aspirations. Officials emphasised that the initiative ensures strategic programmes are continuously monitored and their benefits are optimally felt by the community.

Indonesia maintains fuel subsidy as global oil prices stay high

The Indonesian government has confirmed that subsidised fuel prices, including Pertalite, will remain unchanged through December, with funding already allocated in the fiscal buffer. Authorities are also considering adjustments to non-subsidised fuel prices and are pushing forward with the B50 biodiesel mandate to reduce diesel imports and strengthen energy resilience against geopolitical uncertainties. The policy aims to shield the state budget from global oil price volatility while maintaining domestic energy security.

Academic calls for socialisation and evaluation of Sexual Violence Crime Law implementation

An academic from Parahyangan Catholic University has urged the government to socialise and evaluate the implementation of Indonesia's Sexual Violence Crime Law (UU TPKS), citing disparities in sentencing and victim rights fulfilment. Analysis of court rulings from 2022 to 2026 revealed inconsistencies in applying the law, with some prosecutors still using the Criminal Code for offences covered by the TPKS Law. The Judicial Commission is working with Australian partners to refine an instrument for analysing judicial decisions to improve the law's effectiveness.

US Policies Inadvertently Strengthen Iran's Position in the Middle East

Analysis suggests that Iran is leveraging ongoing regional conflicts to secure permanent strategic advantages, particularly control over the Strait of Hormuz. This shift is reportedly undermining the US security umbrella for Gulf partners, prompting nations like Saudi Arabia to form new defence pacts and others to deepen ties with China. The evolving dynamics are creating friction among traditional US allies and reshaping the Middle East's geopolitical order.

Giant Indonesian Flag Unfurled at Pakansari Stadium Ahead of Independence Day

Preparations for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day are underway in Bogor Regency, where firefighters hoisted a giant national flag at Gelora Pakansari Stadium. The installation serves as a symbol of respect for the nation's struggle and aims to ignite a spirit of nationalism within the community.