Archive: 5 August 2026
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Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:40 WIB
US and Iran Reportedly Agree to Reopen Strait of Hormuz
The United States, Iran, and Oman are reportedly close to a temporary agreement to reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz, with an official announcement expected soon. The deal would establish a 60-day transitional traffic management scheme, with ships entering the Gulf using Iranian waters and exiting via Omani waters, while also providing for joint mine-clearing operations. The agreement aims to revive a ceasefire and pave the way for renewed negotiations on Tehran's nuclear programme, though a similar recent attempt collapsed after Iran launched attacks on vessels.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:38 WIB
6,000 Thai Civil Servants Face Dismissal Over Exam Cheating Scandal
Approximately 6,000 local government employees in Thailand are set to be dismissed this month following a massive recruitment exam cheating scandal. The scheme, described as the country's largest corruption case, involved a network that allegedly collected over 4 billion baht from applicants. Police have named 13 suspects, including a senior official from Srinakharinwirot University, which was appointed to administer the test.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:38 WIB
DPR Urges Budget Policy to Favour Regional Autonomy
A senior Indonesian lawmaker has called for a paradigm shift in national budget policy, arguing that strengthening regional autonomy requires more than just regulations. Zulfikar Arse Sadikin, Deputy Chair of the House's Commission II, urged the government to grant greater fiscal authority to local administrations by revising the 2027 State Budget posture. He emphasised that the central government should focus on regulation and oversight, while devolving programme implementation to the regions.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:36 WIB
Good News from Domestic and Global Fronts Lifts IHSG 0.69% to 6,363
The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) rose 0.69% on Wednesday, buoyed by stronger-than-expected domestic economic growth of 5.29% in the second quarter of 2026. Global sentiment also improved following reports of US-Iran negotiations over the Strait of Hormuz, which pushed down oil prices and the US dollar, boosting appetite for emerging market assets. Foreign investors recorded a net buy of Rp623.5 billion, with major bank stocks leading the purchases.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:36 WIB
Indonesia strengthens skills-based labor market to meet industry needs
Indonesia is shifting towards a skills-based labor market model to address a growing mismatch between worker competencies and industry demands. Manpower Minister Yassierli highlighted that over 80 percent of companies globally struggle to find qualified talent, while 36 percent of workers face a skills mismatch. The government plans to enhance modular learning, micro-credentials, and recognition of prior learning while encouraging employers to prioritise skills over formal academic qualifications.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:35 WIB
Finance Ministry: Q2-2026 Growth Shows Economic Vigour Remains Strong
Indonesia's economy grew 5.29 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026, which the government views as evidence of sustained economic vigour despite a slight slowdown from the previous quarter. The Finance Ministry remains confident of achieving the full-year growth target of 5.6–6.0 percent, supported by expanding manufacturing PMI and robust purchasing power.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:35 WIB
Revealed! These 2 Business Sectors Absorb the Most Workers in Indonesia
Indonesia's unemployment rate has fallen as the workforce expanded, with the agricultural and wholesale and retail trade sectors emerging as the largest employers. The accommodation and food services sector recorded the highest increase in new jobs, according to the latest data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS).
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:30 WIB
Trump Says Strait of Hormuz to Reopen Soon, Threatens Iran with Military Action
US President Donald Trump has stated the Strait of Hormuz will reopen imminently as negotiations with Iran continue, warning of severe military action if a deal is not reached. Trump claimed he had been prepared to launch a massive strike before Iran requested talks. He reiterated that Iran must not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:30 WIB
Public Works Ministry Distributes Clean Water to West Lombok Residents Affected by Drought
The Ministry of Public Works has dispatched 12,000 litres of clean water to two drought-stricken villages in West Lombok, targeting 220 families. The emergency response follows the declaration of a drought alert status in the region, with officials emphasising that water access is critical for sustainable development amid climate challenges.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:29 WIB
Pekanbaru Mayor Promotes Green City Spirit at IMT-GT GCMC 2026 Forum
Pekanbaru Mayor Agung Nugroho has urged regional leaders from Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand to strengthen collaboration on environmental sustainability during the opening of the IMT-GT Green Cities Mayor Council 2026. Speaking at the seminar, he emphasised that safeguarding nature is essential for securing the future and called for joint policies to protect the environment. The two-day forum, hosted in Pekanbaru, Riau, marks a significant step in cross-border cooperation for green urban development.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:29 WIB
Workers Increase by 522,000, BPS: Unemployment Drops to 7.22 Million as of May 2026
Indonesia's workforce expanded by 522,000 people between February and May 2026, bringing the total number of employed individuals to 148.19 million. The Central Statistics Agency (BPS) reported a corresponding decline in unemployment, which fell by 24,000 to 7.22 million. The agriculture, trade, and accommodation sectors were the primary drivers of job creation during this period.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:28 WIB
Not Just Tax Holidays: The Conditions for PFII to Attract Global Investors
Indonesia's International Financial Centre (PFII) requires more than fiscal incentives to compete for global capital, with legal certainty and institutional trust deemed critical. Experts argue the centre must deliver a multiplier effect for the domestic economy, including quality job creation and SME involvement. Building a complete financial ecosystem and credible dispute resolution mechanisms are seen as essential to rival established hubs.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:28 WIB
BNI Reports 24.4% Credit Growth, Net Profit Reaches Rp10.8 Trillion in First Half of 2026
PT Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) posted a 24.4% year-on-year credit growth, reaching Rp968.5 trillion, and a net profit of Rp10.8 trillion in the first half of 2026. The state-owned bank attributed the performance to a diversified portfolio, disciplined risk management, and a transformation strategy aligned with Danantara Indonesia's agenda. Digital transactions surged, with the wondr app and BNIdirect platform recording significant volume increases, while asset quality improved with a lower loan-at-risk ratio.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:28 WIB
Pickpocket Caught in the Act on Transjakarta Bus, Handed Over to Gambir Police
A pickpocket operating on a Transjakarta bus was apprehended by fellow passengers and handed over to authorities. The incident, which occurred at the Pecenongan bus stop, was captured on video and went viral on social media. Police confirmed the suspect has admitted to the crime and is undergoing further investigation at the Gambir Metro Police station.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:27 WIB
BPS Records Increase in Employment Absorption from February to May 2026
Statistics Indonesia (BPS) reported an increase of 522,000 workers absorbed into the labour force between February and May 2026, bringing the total number of employed persons to 148.19 million. The working-age population rose to 220.23 million, with the Labour Force Participation Rate (TPAK) edging up to 70.57 per cent. The agriculture sector saw the largest employment gains, while the trade sector experienced a decline.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:25 WIB
Mubadala Energy's Final Investment Decision on Aceh Gas Project Targeted for September 2026
Indonesia's upstream oil and gas regulator SKK Migas and Mubadala Energy have agreed to target September 2026 for the final investment decision on the Tangkulo gas field in the South Andaman block. The project, located off the coast of Aceh, follows a significant deep-water gas discovery and the approval of its initial development plan. The decision marks a key step towards developing the field's substantial gas and condensate reserves.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:25 WIB
Jetstar to Charge Up to Rp551,000 for Overhead Cabin Baggage from 2027
Australian low-cost carrier Jetstar will introduce fees for overhead cabin luggage starting 2 February 2027, with charges ranging from A$25 to A$52 per flight. The airline claims the policy will speed up boarding and reduce delays, while consumer advocates and the Australian government have called for transparent disclosure of all ancillary fees. Passengers who booked before the announcement will receive complimentary Priority Carry-on upgrades for travel after the effective date.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:23 WIB
Kejagung Unfazed by Febrie Adriansyah's Pretrial Motion: Go Ahead and Sue
The Attorney General's Office has responded calmly to former deputy attorney general for special crimes Febrie Adriansyah's plan to file a pretrial motion against his suspect designation. The office stated that such legal challenges are the right of every suspect under the Criminal Procedure Code. Authorities also declined to publicly disclose the owner of 74 kilograms of gold bars seized in the money laundering case, stating the matter will be proven in court.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:22 WIB
Riau Police Chief Discusses Green Policing and Ecological Damage at IMT-GT Forum
Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan addressed the Green Cities Mayors Council forum, arguing that environmental degradation is no longer solely an ecological issue but a growing threat to social stability and public security. He introduced the 'Green Policing' concept, developed during his tenure, which moves beyond mere law enforcement to foster multi-stakeholder collaboration for ecosystem restoration. Heryawan stressed that the future of cities in the IMT-GT region depends on balancing development with environmental protection and community safety.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:21 WIB
Doctor Apologises After Telling BPJS Patient 'Ruang Jenazah Kosong'
A doctor at Ruteng Regional Hospital has publicly apologised after his insensitive comment to a BPJS patient went viral. The patient, who had complained about an eight-hour wait for a room, later died, sparking widespread condemnation of the doctor's remark that the morgue always had space. The doctor stated he is prepared to face legal and professional consequences from the police, the Indonesian Medical Association, and the Medical Ethics Council.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:18 WIB
BPS Reports Indonesia's Gini Ratio Rises to 0.368 in March 2026
Indonesia's Statistics Indonesia (BPS) reported that the country's Gini ratio increased to 0.368 in March 2026, up from 0.363 in September 2025. The rise indicates a slight increase in expenditure inequality, with urban areas recording a higher level of inequality compared to rural regions. Both urban and rural areas saw an increase in their respective Gini ratios compared to the previous September.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:18 WIB
Indonesia strengthens national carbon trading ecosystem
Indonesia is accelerating the development of its carbon trading ecosystem, with the Forestry Minister acknowledging that progress had stalled due to differing perspectives. The government has introduced new regulations, including Presidential Regulation No. 110 of 2025, and is piloting carbon trading in conservation areas like Way Kambas National Park. Industry players have welcomed the moves, noting that the policies are helping to speed up the validation of major forest carbon projects in Maluku and North Halmahera.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:18 WIB
Basarnas Reveals Five Victims of KM Mutiara Sentosa Fire Died from Fall, Not Burns
Indonesia's National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) has disclosed that the five fatalities from the KM Mutiara Sentosa II ferry fire were caused by falls from a height, not burns. The victims are believed to have fallen as the vessel listed sharply before sinking in waters north of Madura. The agency confirmed all passengers had been directed to the deck and were wearing life jackets prior to abandoning ship.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:18 WIB
How to Register for PIP 2026: Requirements, Grant Amounts, and How to Check Recipient Status
The Indonesian government's Program Indonesia Pintar (PIP) 2026 continues to provide educational cash assistance to students from underprivileged families to prevent dropouts. Eligible recipients include holders of the Indonesia Smart Card, students registered in the national socio-economic database, and those with special conditions such as orphans or disaster victims. The grant amounts vary by education level, ranging from Rp450,000 for primary school to Rp1.8 million for senior secondary students.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:15 WIB
Mikrotrans Driver Sacked After Speeding and Hitting Elderly Man in Tomang
A Mikrotrans driver in West Jakarta has been dishonourably discharged after hitting an 81-year-old motorcyclist while speeding and changing lanes suddenly. The operator, PT Transjakarta, issued a public apology and confirmed the driver initially attempted to conceal the incident. The victim sustained serious injuries including fractures, and Transjakarta is overseeing the settlement process between the operator and the victim's family.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:15 WIB
Drought in Central Java Worsens, Thousands of Hectares of Rice Fields at Risk of Crop Failure
A prolonged dry spell in Central Java is threatening thousands of hectares of agricultural land, with many rice fields on the verge of puso (total crop failure). Reservoirs and irrigation channels are drying up, forcing some residents to filter river water for daily consumption, while the provincial government scrambles to distribute millions of litres of clean water and farmers are pushed to drill wells to save their crops.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:15 WIB
Lampung-1 Satellite Successfully Launched from Sea Platform in China
The Lampung-1 satellite, a collaborative project between the Lampung provincial government, Indonesia's BRIN, Uzbekistan, and China's Star Vision, has been successfully launched from a sea platform off the coast of Shandong, China. The satellite, which was carried alongside Uzbekistan's Samarkand satellite, is designed to boost the maritime economy and strengthen environmental management in the Lampung region. The project was fully funded by Star Vision Aerospace, requiring no regional budget.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:14 WIB
How to enter Polstat STIS 2026: Requirements, programmes, selection stages, and tips for success
Polstat STIS, the official statistics polytechnic under Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS), is a highly sought-after civil service academy due to its bond-based system and guaranteed career path as a government employee. The institution offers programmes in Statistics and Statistical Computing, with admissions conducted through a national selection process involving administrative screening, basic competency tests, and advanced mathematics exams. Prospective students must meet specific age, academic, and health requirements, and are advised to prepare thoroughly for the competitive multi-stage selection.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:14 WIB
Indonesia's Economy Grows 5.29 Percent in Q2 2026, Driven by Household Consumption
Indonesia's economy expanded by 5.29 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026, up from 5.12 percent in the same period last year. Growth was primarily fuelled by robust household consumption and a significant surge in government spending. However, the figure marked a slowdown compared to the 5.61 percent growth recorded in the first quarter of 2026.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:14 WIB
KPK Appeals Two-Year Prison Sentence for Riau Governor
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has filed an appeal against the two-year prison sentence handed down to non-active Riau Governor Abdul Wahid, arguing the punishment is insufficient. The appeal, lodged with the Pekanbaru Corruption Court, also covers two co-defendants in the graft case. The KPK maintains the move is part of its commitment to ensuring proper legal application and justice, while Wahid separately appealed, claiming the case against him was fabricated.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:12 WIB
Trade Ministry: Indonesian Snacks Penetrate Saudi Arabian Market
The Indonesian Ministry of Trade has announced that a domestic snack producer has successfully entered the Saudi Arabian market with an initial export valued at USD 16,045. This milestone was achieved through business matching facilitated by the Indonesian Trade Attaché in Riyadh. The government hopes this will encourage more Indonesian businesses to follow suit, leveraging the substantial bilateral trade relationship between the two nations.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:10 WIB
Economic momentum behind Thai PM's visit to Indonesia
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's historic visit to Indonesia has shifted bilateral relations towards concrete economic cooperation, targeting $20 billion in trade by 2030. The two nations agreed to establish a Joint Trade Commission and signed an education MoU, while Indonesia's trade deficit with Thailand has significantly narrowed. New direct flight routes were also announced to boost high-value tourism and people-to-people contact.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:10 WIB
Indonesia Already Has Bioethanol Fuel, Here's the Price at Petrol Stations
President Prabowo Subianto is pushing for the development of bioethanol fuel, targeting a 10% ethanol blend (E10) and eventually E20, following the lead of India and Brazil. Indonesia has already commercially introduced E5 fuel through Pertamina's Pertamax Green 95, priced at Rp16,600 per litre as of August 2026. Pertamina's renewable energy arm has expressed readiness to support the government's ambition, highlighting the need for dozens of new processing plants and clear regulations to establish a full bioethanol ecosystem.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:09 WIB
KPK Appeals 2-Year Sentence of Riau Governor Abdul Wahid
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has filed an appeal against the two-year prison sentence handed down to suspended Riau Governor Abdul Wahid and two other defendants. The anti-graft body argues the appeal is necessary to ensure proper application of the law and a sense of justice in the corruption case. Wahid, who was caught in a sting operation, had previously described his conviction as a 'set-up' and also announced his intention to appeal.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:09 WIB
Prosecutors Baffled as Nadiem Requests 14 Witnesses Re-examined in Appeal Hearing
Prosecutors have expressed astonishment at former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim's request to re-examine 14 witnesses and two experts during his appeal against a 10-year prison sentence for corruption. The prosecution argued that all witnesses had already been thoroughly questioned during the initial trial. The appellate court, however, granted permission for a limited number of witnesses to be heard, scheduling the first session for 12 August.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:08 WIB
Bromo Wildfire Still Raging, Scorched Land Reaches 10 Hectares
A wildfire on Mount Bromo in East Java continues to burn, with the affected area expanding to an estimated 10 hectares. Firefighting teams are struggling with damaged equipment and strong winds, resorting to using tree branches to battle the flames. Access to the popular tourist destination has been partially closed to ensure visitor safety and facilitate firefighting operations.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:06 WIB
Indonesia pushes mass transportation to ease urban congestion
The Indonesian government is advancing mass transportation projects to tackle severe urban congestion, which costs the economy an estimated Rp77 trillion annually. The Ministry of Transportation highlighted that integrated and affordable public transit is crucial to reducing household transport expenses and supporting the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision. Pilot bus rapid transit systems are being developed in the Mebidang and Bandung Basin metropolitan areas with financial backing from the World Bank and AFD.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:06 WIB
Constitutional Court Ruling Paves Way for Strengthening Education Budget, Free Nutritious Meals Programme Requires New Funding Scheme
The Indonesian Constitutional Court has ruled that the Free Nutritious Meals programme can no longer be funded from the mandatory 20% education budget allocation, a decision welcomed by the House of Representatives. Lawmakers argue this will restore the education budget's focus on improving teacher welfare and learning quality. The government must now devise an alternative funding scheme before the ruling takes full effect in the 2028 state budget.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:05 WIB
Makassar Student Attacked with Bow and Arrow After Reprimanding Noisy Motorcyclist
A 22-year-old man in Makassar has been arrested for shooting a university student with a bow and arrow after the victim told him off for repeatedly revving his motorcycle. The attack occurred after the student refused the suspect's challenge to a fight and was shot from behind while walking away. Police have taken the suspect into custody for further legal proceedings.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:05 WIB
Indonesia tailors internet expansion to local conditions
The Indonesian government is adopting a targeted strategy to expand internet coverage by matching technology to local geography, integrating BTS towers, fibre-optics, and satellites. Deputy Minister Nezar Patria highlighted that East Kalimantan, despite a 95.5% connectivity rate, still has 269 blank spots requiring close coordination between central and local agencies. The approach aims to overcome budget constraints and ensure equitable digital access across the archipelago.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:05 WIB
Indonesia's Economy Maintains High Growth: A Five-Year Record
Indonesia's economy grew by 5.29% year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026, surpassing market expectations and marking the highest Q2 growth since 2022. The expansion was primarily driven by household consumption and investment, according to the Central Statistics Agency (BPS).
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:05 WIB
HIV/AIDS Cases in Bima City Rise Significantly, Dominated by Same-Sex Transmission
The number of people living with HIV/AIDS in Bima City, West Nusa Tenggara, has seen a significant increase, with new cases predominantly found among men who have sex with men. Health officials reported 40 new HIV cases in 2025, following 38 in 2024, bringing the total to 97 by April 2026. The local health department also noted a concurrent rise in sexually transmitted infections like syphilis and gonorrhoea, which heighten the risk of HIV transmission.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:05 WIB
OJK Central Sulawesi Boosts Fishermen's Financial Literacy Through Training
The Financial Services Authority (OJK) of Central Sulawesi is enhancing financial literacy among fishermen in Banagan Village, Tolitoli Regency, through a Training of Trainers programme. The initiative aims to equip 130 fishermen with skills in financial management and access to formal financial services ahead of the launch of the Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih (KNMP) programme. The effort is part of the Inclusive Financial Ecosystem programme designed to strengthen the economic resilience and independence of coastal communities.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:04 WIB
Golkar Responds to PDIP: Politics Is Not About Seeking Comfort, Respects Parties Outside Government
Golkar Party Deputy Chairman Ahmad Doli Kurnia stated that his party has never been in opposition, consistently supporting national development. This response follows PDIP's remarks that politics is not about seeking comfort, with Golkar emphasising its developmentalist ideology and respect for parties outside the government.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:02 WIB
Indonesia's Poor Population Shrinks to 22.93 Million
Indonesia's poverty rate has continued its downward trend, with the number of people living in poverty falling to 22.93 million in March 2026. The figure represents a decline of 430,000 compared to September 2025, according to the Central Statistics Agency (BPS). The poverty rate also dropped to 8.07 per cent, marking a steady improvement from 9.36 per cent in March 2023.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:02 WIB
Police Reveal Perpetrator and Victim in Depok Mutilation Met Through Social Media
Police have disclosed that Saepul, the suspect in a mutilation case in Depok, met his victim Kunaefi through social media before their fatal encounter. The suspect allegedly stabbed and slashed the victim's throat following an argument, then dismembered the body to conceal the crime. Saepul was arrested in Pandeglang, Banten, while attempting to flee after selling the victim's motorcycle.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:02 WIB
Chronology of Kunaefi's Mutilation by Social Media Acquaintance Leading to Perpetrator's Arrest
The mutilated body of Kunaefi, a 51-year-old man, was discovered in a sack in Depok, West Java, after being reported missing by his wife. Police arrested Saepul, a 26-year-old man who met the victim via social media, for allegedly murdering and dismembering him following a dispute in a rented room. The perpetrator confessed to stabbing the victim, mutilating the body, and selling the victim's motorcycle before being apprehended in Banten.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:01 WIB
BPS Records Indonesia's Poor Population Reduced by 430,000 as of March 2026
Indonesia's poverty rate continued its downward trend, with the number of people living in poverty falling by 430,000 to 22.93 million in March 2026 compared to September 2025. The decline was observed in both urban and rural areas, though a significant disparity between the two persists. The data indicates a consistent reduction in poverty levels since March 2023.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:00 WIB
Minister Rachmat: Cassava Development in Indonesia Holds Great Prospects
National Development Planning Minister Rachmat Pambudy has highlighted the significant potential of cassava development in Indonesia, calling it a strategic food commodity. He expressed optimism that Indonesia can become a major player in the sector, targeting a productivity of 60 tonnes per hectare. Lampung Governor Rahmat Mirzani Djausal noted that the province contributes over 70 percent of national cassava production.
Wed, 05 Aug 2026, 12:00 WIB
Israeli Journalist Nearly Met President Soeharto After Entering Indonesia with Special Permit
In 1971, Israeli journalist Ted Lurie sparked a minor diplomatic stir after gaining access to Indonesia's Merdeka Palace during a press conference, despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties. An investigation revealed Lurie had obtained a special entry permit from the Indonesian Embassy in Singapore to attend the event in Bali. The incident subsided without escalating into a major conflict after President Soeharto ordered a probe into the matter.