Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 5 August 2026

Showing 1,151-1,200 of 1,487 articles

Indonesia's Economy Grows 5.29% and Rupiah Strengthens, Dollar Falls to Rp17,905

Indonesia's economy expanded by 5.29% year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026, surpassing market expectations and boosting the rupiah. The stronger-than-anticipated GDP data drove the local currency up 0.61% to Rp17,905 against the US dollar. The robust quarterly growth of 3.73% signals resilient domestic momentum despite a global slowdown.

The Adaptive Tactics of Online Gambling Promotion: Exploiting Viral Content Algorithms

The Indonesian Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs has recorded a 128 percent surge in spam comments promoting online gambling, driven by automated bot networks targeting high-engagement accounts. These bots exploit social media algorithms designed to boost popular content, inadvertently amplifying illegal gambling links. The shift highlights a growing gap between reactive regulatory measures and the fully automated, adaptive strategies of gambling operators.

China's WeRide Expands Robotaxi 'Doomsday' for Online Drivers to Denmark

Chinese autonomous driving firm WeRide is expanding its robotaxi service to Denmark through a partnership with GreenMobility, pending regulatory approval for a public launch in early 2027. The move is part of a broader push by Chinese tech companies into the European market, intensifying competition in the driverless vehicle sector. The rapid expansion of autonomous ride-hailing services poses a growing threat to the future of human online drivers globally.

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Studies Cloud Seeding to Anticipate El Niño Drought

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung is exploring cloud seeding operations to mitigate the impact of a prolonged dry season caused by El Niño. The administration is coordinating with disaster agencies to determine the optimal timing for the intervention, which depends on sufficient cloud formation. The move aims to reduce the heightened risk of fires across the capital.

Trump Threatens Massive Attack on Iran if Hormuz Strait Not Reopened Immediately

US President Donald Trump has threatened Iran with the largest military assault since World War II if the Strait of Hormuz is not promptly reopened. The ultimatum came as US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expressed optimism that a deal to stabilise energy prices could be reached within days. Iran's foreign ministry, however, has denied that any negotiations with Washington are currently underway.

Dozens of Trucks Cleared from Illegal Parking Along Mengwi Terminal Road

Authorities in Badung, Bali, conducted a joint operation to disperse dozens of trucks illegally parked along Jalan Jaksa Agung R Soeprapto near Mengwi Terminal. The operation, which saw the trucks leave simultaneously upon the officers' arrival, aims to address chronic traffic congestion and complaints from local residents. Officials noted that while enforcement is ongoing, no fines have been issued yet, and they are awaiting further instructions regarding ticketing.

Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Jordan Could Join Gas Route to Europe via Turkey

Turkey's energy minister has revealed that Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Jordan are potential participants in a new gas corridor to Europe. The proposed route would channel natural gas through Iraq or an alternative path via Jordan and Syria into Turkey's extensive pipeline network. The plan aims to bolster Turkey's role as a key regional energy hub while supplying European markets.

Chronology of body in sack discovery in Depok and arrest of perpetrator

Police have arrested a 26-year-old man for the murder and mutilation of a 51-year-old man whose remains were found in a sack in Depok. The victim was reported missing by his wife before a resident discovered the body after burning what was thought to be rubbish. The suspect allegedly killed the victim following an argument, mutilated the body, and sold the victim's motorcycle.

BNN Encourages Youth Resilience Through Public Lecture

Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) is set to hold a national public lecture at Majalengka University to bolster young people's resilience against drug abuse. The event, featuring BNN Chief Suyudi Ario Seto, aims to expand education on narcotics dangers and foster youth as prevention agents. It underscores a collaborative effort between the government, educational institutions, and the community, supported by state-owned Bank Mandiri.

OJK Mandates Fintech Lending Transaction Reports and Bans Customer Data Trading

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has issued a new regulation requiring peer-to-peer lending platforms to report transaction data and explicitly prohibiting the sale of customer information. The rule aims to enhance data quality, strengthen industry discipline, and support more effective risk-based supervision. It also mandates internal governance measures including director-level accountability and regular audits.

Suspected Perpetrator of Depok Murder and Mutilation Arrested

Police have arrested a man suspected of murdering and mutilating a victim whose body was found tied up in a sack in Depok. The suspect, identified as SA, was apprehended in Pandeglang, Banten, while attempting to flee. Authorities are continuing to investigate the relationship between the suspect and the victim, and are searching for the victim's missing lower limbs.

Home Affairs Minister: Integrity Key to Clean and Accountable Governance

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has stressed that the personal integrity of regional heads is crucial for achieving clean and accountable local governance. Speaking at a coordination meeting in Surabaya, he expressed concern over corruption cases involving regional leaders and emphasised that while oversight systems are being strengthened, ultimate success depends on individual commitment to anti-corruption principles.

Saepul Mutilates Man in Depok After Argument, Disposes of Legs in River

Police have arrested a 26-year-old man, Saepul, for the murder and mutilation of Kunaefi in Depok, West Java. The suspect allegedly dismembered the victim following an argument and disposed of the body parts in separate locations, including a river. The case came to light after residents discovered the torso while attempting to burn a suspicious sack.

Legislator: 2026 Economic Census to Strengthen MSME Policies

A member of the Indonesian House of Representatives has stated that the 2026 Economic Census will serve as a crucial data-driven foundation for policy-making, particularly to bolster micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The census, conducted by BPS, aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the national economy, from micro-businesses to large corporations and the digital economy. The legislator assured the public that data confidentiality is protected by law and urged active participation in the census.

Indonesia's Economic Growth Reaches 5.29% in Q2-2026

Indonesia's economy expanded by 5.29% year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026, according to the Central Statistics Agency (BPS). The figure surpassed market consensus of 5.12% despite a slowdown from the previous quarter and global pressures stemming from the US-Israel-Iran conflict. Domestic factors such as civil servant salary disbursements and rising investment helped sustain growth.

Registration Opens for Independence Day Ceremony at Merdeka Palace, Required Documents Listed

The Indonesian Government has opened online registration for the public to attend the 81st Independence Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace. Due to limited daily quotas and expected high public enthusiasm, the Government Communication Agency advises citizens to prepare their identity documents and active contact details in advance. Successful applicants will witness the official ceremony and accompanying cultural performances.

TNI Responds to Alleged Assault on Police Officer in Palmerah

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has stated it respects the ongoing legal process regarding an alleged assault by a soldier on a police officer in Palmerah, West Jakarta. The TNI's head of public information noted that the investigation is still underway and no conclusions have been reached. The victim reportedly died after receiving medical treatment following the incident on 31 July.

Iraq to Build New Oil Pipeline Infrastructure to Turkey and Syria

Iraq is preparing to commence construction of a new oil pipeline to diversify its hydrocarbon export routes, connecting Basra to Haditha and onwards to Turkey's Ceyhan port and Syria's Baniyas. The move follows recent agreements with Ankara and Damascus, including a deal with Turkey setting a minimum flow rate of 750,000 barrels per day. The initiative aims to mitigate the impact of regional conflicts and the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz on Iraq's oil exports.

Questioning the Distribution of Humanitarian Aid to Palestine

The distribution of humanitarian aid to Gaza faces significant challenges due to geopolitical complexities and potential misuse, raising public distrust. An academic highlights that aid is often not neutral, serving as a diplomatic tool or being controlled by Israel, which dictates access and restrictions. Effective strategies require transparent governance, mapping of needs, and collaboration with trusted local actors to ensure aid reaches those in dire need.

Jakarta Government Equips Central Jakarta Residents with Entrepreneurial Skills

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government is providing culinary training to residents in Central Jakarta to foster new entrepreneurs and boost household incomes. The initiative, which includes providing cooking equipment as start-up capital, aims to enhance human resource quality and competitiveness in the creative economy sector. Participants are being taught to make specific products like rempeyek, shrimp paste onions, and es lumut for potential culinary businesses.

Police to Summon YouTuber Bigmo Over Vape Promotion Involving Minors

Jakarta police are investigating YouTuber Muhammad Jannah, known as Bigmo, for allegedly exploiting minors to promote vape liquid during a live stream. Investigators have questioned the complainant, the children involved, and their parents, and have also examined documents at a partner company's office. The case is being handled with a focus on child protection, while the Ministry of Communication has issued a warning to YouTube over the content.

BRI Contactless Credit Cards Now Accepted on Jakarta MRT

State-owned bank BRI has enabled its contactless Visa and Mastercard credit cards for fare payments on the Jakarta MRT network. The initiative aims to provide greater convenience and efficiency for urban commuters. A wide range of BRI credit card products, including co-branded and corporate cards, are supported on the system.

KY completes interviews for 9 Supreme Court criminal chamber candidates

The Judicial Commission (KY) has concluded open interviews for nine candidates vying for Supreme Court justice positions in the criminal chamber. The interviews, part of the 2026 selection process, assessed intellectual capacity, integrity, and commitment to justice. Successful candidates will be proposed to the House of Representatives (DPR) for approval.

Trade Minister Seeks to Strengthen Trade Ties with Thailand

Indonesian Trade Minister Budi Santoso has emphasised the importance of the economic partnership with Thailand, highlighting bilateral trade which reached USD 17.7 billion in 2025. Speaking at a business forum in Jakarta, he expressed support for collaboration between Indonesian and Thai businesses to further enhance trade relations. The minister also outlined Indonesia's focus on export market diversification and integrating small businesses into global value chains.

MRT Jakarta Rides Now More Practical with BRI Contactless Credit Cards

Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has integrated its contactless Visa and Mastercard credit cards with MRT Jakarta's payment system, allowing passengers to tap in and out at station gates. The initiative aims to streamline urban mobility by eliminating the need for separate travel cards or top-ups. BRI has emphasised that security remains a priority, urging users to protect their personal data while enjoying the new seamless transaction experience.

Singkawang Businessman Shot Dead by Hitman, Mastermind Is His Own Brother

A businessman in Singkawang, West Kalimantan, was fatally shot in his home by a hired killer. Police have arrested three suspects, including the victim's younger brother, who is alleged to have orchestrated the murder. The suspected hitman confessed to receiving IDR 90 million in staged payments to carry out the killing.

MPR Secretariat General Maintains Unqualified Opinion, Strengthens Financial Governance

The Secretariat General of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR RI) has once again secured an Unqualified Opinion (WTP) for its 2025 financial report from the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK RI). The achievement was attributed to transparent and accountable financial management across all work units. The MPR pledged to follow up on all audit recommendations to reinforce good governance and maintain the WTP status in future years.

Police arrest suspect in Depok body-in-sack case

Police have arrested a man suspected of murder after a mutilated body was discovered inside a sack in Depok, West Java. The suspect, identified as SA, was apprehended in Pandeglang, Banten, while attempting to flee. Investigators are still working to determine the relationship between the suspect and the victim, whose legs were missing and whose identity remains unconfirmed.

European Commission Says Illegal Migration Down 55 Percent in Two Years

The European Commission has reported a significant 55 per cent drop in illegal border crossings into the EU over the past two years, with a further 40 per cent decline recorded since the start of 2026. The announcement comes despite a recent massive influx of migrants into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, where around 60,000 people crossed in a single day. Several EU member states have subsequently called for Spain's temporary suspension from the Schengen area.

Depok Mutilation Victim Was Killed by a Man She Met on Social Media

Police have arrested a 26-year-old man for the mutilation of a 51-year-old woman in Depok, revealing the pair met on social media before a quarrel turned deadly. The victim's dismembered body was discovered by residents who attempted to burn a suspicious sack. The suspect allegedly stabbed and slashed the victim's neck after an argument during their meeting at a rented house.

Purbaya Ratifies Duty-Free Import Scheme from Japan, Here Are the Details

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has enacted a new regulation overhauling import duty tariffs on Japanese goods under the updated Indonesia-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (IJEPA). The regulation introduces a phased tariff reduction schedule until 2031, a new tariff rate quota scheme for certain commodities, and a zero-duty facility for specific industrial users. The move aims to provide long-term tariff certainty and incentives for importers while aligning with renegotiated market access commitments.

Health Ministry Responds to Viral Outcry Over Healthcare Workers' Empathetic Comments to Patient

Indonesia's Health Ministry has addressed a public uproar after several healthcare workers allegedly posted dismissive and sarcastic comments on social media directed at a patient, Yurizal Tri Chaerawan, who later died. The patient had complained on Threads about an eight-hour wait for a hospital room while using the national health insurance scheme, BPJS Kesehatan. The incident has sparked widespread criticism regarding the professionalism and empathy of medical staff within the public health system.

Father and Uncle Sentenced to 20 Years for Raping 17-Year-Old Girl in Situbondo

A court in Situbondo, East Java, has sentenced a man and his brother to 20 years in prison each for the rape of the man's 17-year-old daughter. The panel of judges ruled that the father's actions constituted a profound betrayal of parental trust, noting the severe psychological impact on the victim. The sentence exceeded the prosecutors' original demands.

Identity of Mutilated Body Found in Depok Revealed as Kunaefi

The identity of a mutilated body discovered in a sack in Pancoran Mas, Depok, has been confirmed as Kunaefi, a 51-year-old man reported missing by his wife. Police have arrested a suspect, identified as Saepul, in Pandeglang, Banten, as he was attempting to flee. The remains were found after residents attempted to burn what they thought was a sack of rubbish.

Suspected Perpetrator of Depok Mutilation Arrested in Banten

Police have arrested a suspect in connection with the mutilation of a man whose legless body was found in a sack in Pancoran Mas, Depok. The suspect, identified as SA, was apprehended in Pandeglang, Banten, while attempting to flee. The victim's body was discovered by a local resident who initially mistook the sack for rubbish.

SIG CEO confirms cement supply and distribution back to normal in Aceh

The chief executive of state-owned cement producer Semen Indonesia (SIG) has confirmed that cement supply and distribution in Aceh have returned to normal. The company accelerated production and coordinated with distributors to address recent shortages and price fluctuations. SIG reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining supply stability for development projects and communities across Sumatra.

For the Sake of Two Pupils, Ali Keeps the Doors of His Early Childhood School Open

Ali Muhtar, a former supermarket employee, continues to operate his early childhood education centre (PAUD) in East Jakarta despite having only two students enrolled this academic year. He initially funded the school with his severance pay and now subsidises its operational costs using income from rental properties, a family food business, and his honorarium as a neighbourhood association head. The school survives on minimal fees and a small annual government grant, highlighting the challenges of providing early education in densely populated urban areas.

Lokananta Cafe Management Sues Solo City Government Following Raid

The management of Ruang Bahagia cafe in Lokananta has filed a lawsuit against the Solo City Government after a raid by the Public Order Agency (Satpol PP). The management claims they had already applied for the necessary B and C alcohol permits, which were still being processed, and that the raid was conducted without prior coordination. The cafe currently holds a Class A permit for beverages with an ethanol content below 5 percent.

France Shuts Down Three Nuclear Reactors Due to Drought

French energy giant EDF has taken three nuclear reactors offline as drought conditions reduce water levels in the Meuse and Moselle rivers. The shutdowns, affecting the Chooz and Cattenom plants, are required under environmental agreements to maintain adequate river flow and protect aquatic ecosystems. France relies on nuclear power for approximately 70 per cent of its electricity, making its fleet vulnerable to heatwaves and water scarcity.

Trump Denies US Ammunition Depleted by Iran War

US President Donald Trump has refuted reports that American ammunition stocks have fallen to dangerously low levels due to the conflict with Iran. Senior military commanders and media reports had suggested the Pentagon's reserves of interceptor missiles and long-range precision munitions were severely depleted. Trump insisted the US possesses far more ammunition than needed and that defence companies are producing at unprecedented rates.

Man in Denpasar Stabs Wife and Slashes Father-in-Law with Sword

A 42-year-old man in Denpasar, Bali, allegedly stabbed his wife and attacked his father-in-law with a sword after showing signs of anxiety. The suspect, who has a history of mental illness, was eventually secured by police and taken to hospital.

BNI Posts Rp10.8 Trillion Net Profit in First Half of 2026, Credit Grows 24.4 Percent

PT Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) reported a net profit of Rp10.8 trillion for the first half of 2026, underpinned by robust credit growth of 24.4 percent. The state-owned bank attributed its solid performance to a diversified loan portfolio, strong funding structure, and sustained digital transformation. BNI's digital platforms saw significant uptake, with wondr by BNI users reaching 15.1 million and wholesale platform BNIdirect processing Rp6,039 trillion in transactions.

DKI Jakarta Prepares Two Relocation Sites for Kebayoran Lama Selatan Primary School Students

The Jakarta Education Agency has prepared two alternative school locations to temporarily accommodate students from SDN Kebayoran Lama Selatan 09 and 11. The relocation is necessary ahead of a planned vertical redevelopment project to replace the dilapidated buildings, with construction targeted to begin by September 2026. The new integrated facility aims to optimise limited urban land and improve educational management efficiency.

Intelligence Analyst Urges Strict Security for Law Enforcers Handling High-Profile Cases

An intelligence analyst has called for rigorous security standards for law enforcement officials managing major corruption cases, following an alleged stalking incident involving a former senior prosecutor. The analyst emphasised the need for enhanced early warning systems, counter-intelligence functions, and inter-agency coordination to protect personnel and information. The warning comes as the Attorney General's Office and the National Police investigate former Jampidsus official Febrie Adriansyah in separate money laundering and corruption cases.

Police Question Witnesses in Red and White Flag Burning Case in Bandung

Police in Bandung are investigating the burning of an Indonesian flag outside a resident's home, an act captured on CCTV. Authorities have questioned several witnesses, including the property owner and individuals who may have seen the perpetrator's escape route. Investigators are also working to determine if the same suspect is responsible for a similar incident in the nearby Astana Anyar district.

Rupiah expected to weaken as market awaits US NFP data release

The Indonesian rupiah is forecast to depreciate as market participants await the release of US Nonfarm Payrolls data, which will signal the Federal Reserve's interest rate direction. External factors, including Middle East geopolitical uncertainty boosting safe-haven demand for the dollar, continue to dominate pressure on the currency. Domestically, attention is focused on Indonesia's second-quarter GDP release, with stronger-than-expected growth potentially providing positive sentiment.

Jakarta Provincial Government Involves Cross-Agency Collaboration to Compile 2026 Democracy Index

The Jakarta Provincial Government is engaging the Central Statistics Agency, academics, and civil society groups to compile the 2026 Indonesian Democracy Index, aiming for a transparent assessment. Jakarta's national ranking has slipped from second place in 2023 to eighth in 2025, despite maintaining a high score above the national average. Officials stressed the need to strengthen public information disclosure and expand democracy education to various community groups to improve the quality of democracy.

Bumi Resources Clarifies Plans to Acquire Australian Mining Giant

PT Bumi Resources has confirmed signing a preliminary agreement to acquire Loyal Metals Limited, an Australian Securities Exchange-listed mining company. The transaction remains subject to several conditions precedent, including shareholder approval and Australian legal requirements. No transfer of funds or shares has yet occurred.

PHEVs Assessed as Offering Solution to Electric Car Limitations

Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) are being positioned as a practical bridge to overcome the current limitations of pure electric cars in Indonesia. Industry experts argue the technology alleviates range anxiety by combining electric motors for daily use with petrol engines for long-distance travel. The discussion, held at GIIAS 2026, also highlighted the need for improved public education and charging infrastructure to accelerate the electrification transition.

Middle East Crisis Severely Impacts Austrian Airlines' Financial Performance

Austrian Airlines has reported that its operating losses more than doubled in the first half of the year, driven by the Middle East crisis. The conflict led to soaring jet fuel costs and forced route cancellations to destinations such as Amman, Erbil, Tel Aviv, and Tehran. Despite these challenges, the airline expects to close the year with a positive financial result through efficiency improvements and fare adjustments.