Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 5 August 2026

Showing 101-150 of 1,487 articles

Red and White Expedition Brings Nationalism, Environmental Love, and Joy to Siak's Edge

The Riau Police's 'Ekspedisi Merah Putih' team reached the remote village of Teluk Lanus in Siak Regency, combining nationalistic activities with community development. The expedition involved planting 1,000 mangroves, distributing food aid and school supplies, and providing free health check-ups. The initiative aimed to foster patriotism ahead of Independence Day while promoting environmental conservation and strengthening community relations in the border area.

Tuntun Sekuritas Develops AI, Reminds Investors to Prioritise Personal Analysis

Tuntun Sekuritas Indonesia is integrating artificial intelligence into its platform to help investors access market data and analysis more efficiently, launching features like Tuntun AI. Despite the technological advancements, the company's director emphasised that AI should serve as a supporting tool and not replace an investor's own judgement, risk assessment, and understanding of the market. The firm remains optimistic about Indonesia's economic prospects and is expanding its research coverage to over 600 listed companies to support informed investment decisions.

Cultural Festival Becomes Regional Economic Engine, Tapin Art Fest Supports National Tourism Agenda

The Tapin Art Fest 2026 in South Kalimantan has been included in the national Karisma Event Nusantara (KEN) calendar, highlighting its role in driving local economic growth. The festival, supported by Hasnur Group and its subsidiaries, showcases cultural performances alongside MSME products, including a gold-awarded sasirangan textile group that previously participated in a trade mission to Shanghai. Local officials emphasised that the cross-sector collaboration between government, businesses, and communities strengthens cultural preservation while creating market opportunities and jobs.

Indonesia explores migrant worker placement opportunities in Slovakia

Indonesia is exploring opportunities to send skilled migrant workers to Slovakia, focusing on the manufacturing, hospitality, and caregiving sectors. The initiative aims to meet Slovakia's growing demand for labour, particularly in its automotive industry. Both nations are looking to strengthen labour cooperation, building on the positive reputation of Indonesian workers.

West Java Governor Demands Severe Sanctions for Health Workers Who Insulted Deceased BPJS Patient

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has called for strict sanctions against health workers who insulted a BPJS patient who later died. The governor emphasised that such inappropriate remarks are unacceptable in healthcare services. The case sparked public outrage after the patient, Yurizal Tri Chaerawan, reportedly waited eight hours for emergency treatment before passing away.

Indian National Smuggles 10 kg of Thai Cannabis into Bali via Singapore

An Indian man was arrested at Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport for attempting to smuggle over 10 kilograms of cannabis from Thailand. The suspect, Akshay Roshan, was apprehended after an X-ray scan of his luggage revealed the drugs upon his arrival from Singapore. Authorities are now investigating potential links to a broader international narcotics network.

SIG Revives Semen Kujang Brand to Strengthen West Java Market and Partners with Persib Bandung

State-owned cement producer PT Semen Indonesia (SIG) is relaunching the historic Semen Kujang brand with updated technology to expand its market penetration in West Java. The product, first introduced in 1975, now features Active Micro Particle technology for enhanced durability and is produced at the Narogong plant. In a strategic move to boost brand visibility, SIG also announced a partnership with football club Persib Bandung, placing the Semen Kujang logo on the team's official jersey.

Danantara Percepat Pengembangan Proyek Waste-to-Energy di Indonesia

PT Danantara Investment Management, melalui anak usahanya PT Daya Energi Bersih Nusantara, membuka kembali pendaftaran penyedia terseleksi untuk mempercepat proyek pengelolaan sampah menjadi energi listrik di Indonesia. Inisiatif ini melanjutkan momentum positif dari putaran sebelumnya yang menarik minat perusahaan dari tujuh negara, dengan tujuan membangun ekosistem mitra yang kuat dan kompetitif. Program ini merupakan bagian dari upaya Indonesia mengatasi tantangan sampah perkotaan sekaligus mendorong transisi energi bersih, didukung oleh Peraturan Presiden Nomor 109 Tahun 2025.

KPK Alleges Forestry Ministry Official Received SGD 12,500 from Suhardiman

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) suspects a Forestry Ministry official received 12,500 Singapore dollars from the suspended Kuantan Singingi Regent, Suhardiman Amby, in May 2026. This payment is separate from an envelope of money left during a meeting with Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni in June, which the minister later reported and returned. The allegation strengthens the case of bribery linked to a job auction scandal within the Kuantan Singingi district government.

Jovi, Riau's beloved conflict-response elephant, dies at 46

Jovi, a domesticated elephant instrumental in mitigating human-wildlife conflict in Riau for over two decades, has died at the age of 46 after a prolonged illness. The elephant, which had been under intensive veterinary care for 34 days at the Minas Elephant Training Center, was a key asset for the Riau Natural Resources Conservation Agency in managing tensions between local communities and wild Sumatran elephants. His death represents a significant loss for conservation efforts in a province where such conflicts are a persistent challenge.

China's Wealthy in Panic, Contacting Lawyers and Selling Assets Amid New Offshore Trust Tax

China's new regulation imposing a 20% tax on offshore trusts has triggered panic among the country's ultra-rich, who are scrambling to consult lawyers and liquidate assets. The policy, which applies to trusts in hubs like Hong Kong and Singapore, requires families to report and pay taxes on assets moved into trusts since early 2023 by October 2026. The move aims to generate new state revenue as the government seeks to offset a prolonged downturn in the property sector.

Health Minister Responds to BPJS Patient Yurizal's Death and Viral Bullying by Health Workers: 'I Feel I Have Failed'

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has expressed deep regret and a sense of personal failure following the death of BPJS patient Yurizal Tri Chaerawan, who passed away after an eight-hour wait for a hospital bed. The minister stated the case would serve as a critical evaluation point for improving healthcare services, as he aims to raise the average life expectancy of Indonesians to 76 years. The incident gained widespread attention after the patient's social media complaint was met with unsympathetic responses from several healthcare workers prior to his death.

20 Percent Senior Discount Sees High Uptake at Tegal Station

State railway operator KAI reported that over 20,000 elderly passengers used its 20 percent fare discount at Tegal Station during the first half of 2026. The programme, available to citizens aged 60 and above, aims to provide affordable and comfortable travel while encouraging greater use of rail services among Indonesia's ageing population.

Jakarta Government Receives Rp2.27 Trillion in Public Assets from Developers

The Jakarta Provincial Government has taken receipt of social and public facilities from developers valued at Rp2.27 trillion during the first half of 2026. The assets, comprising land, building construction, and low-cost flat conversions, are intended to bolster public space and community services. Governor Pramono Anung noted that over 8.5 million square metres of outstanding obligations remain, urging faster settlement to accelerate public benefit.

Ideal intellectual property system must deliver socio-economic benefits: Otto

Deputy Coordinating Minister Otto Hasibuan has stated that an ideal intellectual property (IP) system should be clear, fair, and balanced, delivering both social and economic benefits. He cautioned that overly weak protection reduces innovation incentives, while excessively strict rules can hinder knowledge transfer and public interest. Hasibuan noted that Indonesia's vast IP potential, spanning traditional knowledge to university research, has yet to be fully converted into national economic strength.

NTB Government to Evaluate Hotel Price Regulation Ahead of MotoGP Mandalika 2026

The West Nusa Tenggara provincial government plans to review a 2022 gubernatorial regulation on accommodation services to prevent unreasonable hotel price surges before the 2026 MotoGP Mandalika. Officials are concerned that opportunistic pricing could damage the region's tourism image and are seeking a fair formula that balances market dynamics with consumer protection. The evaluation will also address the enforceability of sanctions and broader issues such as public transport accessibility within the Mandalika Special Economic Zone.

Social Affairs Ministry Suspends 1.49 Million Welfare Recipients Over Online Gambling Indications

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs has suspended 1.49 million beneficiaries of the Sembako food aid programme after data matching with the financial intelligence unit indicated they had engaged in online gambling transactions. The suspension, which also affects nearly 800,000 recipients of the Family Hope Programme (PKH), will remain in place pending further verification. The government is using the findings to update the National Socio-Economic Single Data registry to ensure social assistance is better targeted.

BPS Reports Increase in Workforce Absorption in May 2026

Indonesia's workforce expanded by 522,000 people between February and May 2026, reaching 148.19 million employed, according to the Central Statistics Agency (BPS). The accommodation, food and beverage sector led job creation, followed by transportation and warehousing. The open unemployment rate stood at 4.65%, with the absolute number of unemployed individuals declining by 24,000 over the same period.

Yogyakarta Government Passes Draft Bylaw Banning Dog Meat Trade

The Yogyakarta Special Region (DIY) government, together with the local parliament, has approved a draft bylaw prohibiting the trade of dog meat and other rabies-prone animals for consumption. The regulation aims to protect public health, ensure food safety, and prevent the transmission of zoonotic diseases, following reports of over 126 dogs being slaughtered daily in the region. The bylaw also mandates the establishment of a task force and implementing governor regulations within six months to enforce the ban.

Pramono Agrees to Weekly Weather Modification to Combat El Niño

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has approved weather modification operations up to twice a week to mitigate the effects of a prolonged El Niño-driven dry season. The operations, which depend on cloud availability, aim to prevent drought-related issues such as fires and acute respiratory infections. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned that the current El Niño is strong and could intensify, leading to a drier and longer dry season across southern Indonesia.

Joint Task Force Extinguishes Forest Fire in Trenggalek

A joint task force comprising the Indonesian military, police, and the regional disaster management agency successfully extinguished a forest fire in Trenggalek, East Java. The blaze, which affected approximately 1.5 hectares of teak forest managed by Perum Perhutani, was brought under control within two and a half hours. Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant during the dry season to prevent further incidents.

UGM Investigates Medical Student Over Alleged Insult to BPJS Patient

Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has launched an investigation into a medical student accused of making disparaging remarks on social media towards a late BPJS patient. The student allegedly mocked the patient's financial status in a comment thread. The university has apologised and pledged to impose sanctions if the investigation confirms a breach of ethical or academic codes.

MRT Construction Prompts DKI Jakarta Transport Agency to Implement Traffic Diversions Around Kota Station

The DKI Jakarta Transportation Agency has announced a series of traffic diversions around Glodok and Kota Stations to facilitate the construction of the MRT Phase 2, contract package CP203. The works, carried out by PT Hutama Karya, will affect Jalan Pintu Besar Selatan and Simpang Asemka from 10 August 2026 to 15 January 2027. Motorists are advised to follow the staged traffic management plan, which includes contraflow systems and temporary road closures, to ensure safety and smooth traffic flow during the project.

Dudung: Cross-sector coordination key to resolving priority programme obstacles

Chief of the Presidential Staff, General (Ret.) Dudung Abdurachman, has emphasised that cross-sector coordination facilitated by the Presidential Staff Office (KSP) is crucial for accelerating the resolution of obstacles hindering President Prabowo Subianto's priority programmes. He highlighted the KSP's role in translating presidential directives into actionable programmes and uniting ministries, local governments, and law enforcement to make swift, integrated decisions. Examples cited include resolving gas development issues in Muara Enim and land disputes for toll road construction.

Minister Bahlil Appoints Mawardi Nur as Head of BPMA to Boost Aceh's Oil and Gas Sector

Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia has officially appointed Mawardi Nur as the new Head of the Aceh Oil and Gas Management Agency (BPMA). Mawardi outlined his priorities, which include increasing oil and gas lifting, accelerating the development of old wells, and ensuring greater involvement of local contractors and human resources. The appointment is part of broader efforts to strengthen national energy resilience and ensure the industry delivers tangible economic benefits to the people of Aceh.

Jordan Convenes Emergency Meeting with Indonesia and Others, Warns of 'Religious War' Danger

Jordan is hosting an emergency meeting of Arab and Islamic foreign ministers, including Indonesia, to address what it calls the gravest threat yet to the status quo at Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque. Amman warns that Israeli provocations at the holy site risk igniting a global religious conflict. The kingdom also faces mounting internal pressure over water disputes, the potential for mass displacement from the West Bank, and the controversial presence of US military forces on its soil.

Judges Acquit Three NTB Council Members in Graft Case, Prosecutors Vow to Fight On

A corruption court in Mataram has acquitted three West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) provincial council members of accepting gratuities in the so-called 'ghost money' scandal. Despite the acquittal, prosecutors have stated they will not remain silent and are exploring alternative legal avenues, as the new Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP) prohibits cassation appeals against acquittals. The prosecution is considering other mechanisms, including a potential 'verzet' challenge, after the judges ruled the charges were not proven.

Apple Alleges More Ex-Employees Leaked Confidential Data to OpenAI

Apple has claimed in court documents that numerous former employees may have leaked confidential information to OpenAI, expanding the scope of its initial lawsuit. The tech giant identified 11 additional ex-staffers and requested a preliminary injunction to halt OpenAI's AI development allegedly using its trade secrets. OpenAI has dismissed the claims, countering that Apple's internal security procedures were weak.

Pakistan Ambassador: Indonesia Has Important Role in Pushing Kashmir Resolution

Pakistan's Ambassador to Indonesia has called on Jakarta to play a significant role in urging the implementation of UN Security Council resolutions on Kashmir. He emphasised the importance of a rules-based international order and the need for a plebiscite to allow the people of Jammu and Kashmir to determine their own future. The ambassador also urged the international community to press India to respect human rights in the disputed region.

KPK Says Witness in Banjarmasin Tax Office Case Returned USD 530,000

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revealed that a witness in a graft case involving the Banjarmasin Medium Tax Office returned USD 530,000 during questioning. The case stems from an alleged bribery scheme related to a palm oil company's value-added tax restitution claim worth IDR 48.3 billion. The anti-graft agency is now investigating the origin of the returned funds and their connection to the bribery allegations.

Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs Encourages Indonesia-Japan Strategic Partnership

The Indonesian government is promoting 32 strategic projects from nine state-owned and regional enterprises to Japanese investors, spanning toll roads, housing, railways, and ports. This initiative aims to build on a strong economic relationship, with recent Indonesian economic growth reaching 5.61% and a new USD 23.63 billion investment commitment from Japan.

Warga Gugat Smelter Nikel di Morosi Rp42,7 Miliar

Masyarakat di sekitar kawasan industri Morosi, Kabupaten Konawe, mengajukan gugatan ganti rugi sebesar Rp42,7 miliar terhadap PT Obsidian Stainless Steel (OSS) dan PT Virtue Dragon Nickel Industrial (VDNI) atas dugaan pencemaran lingkungan akibat operasional PLTU captive. Gugatan yang didaftarkan di Pengadilan Negeri Unaaha ini menuntut ganti rugi materiil sebesar Rp35,7 miliar atas hilangnya mata pencaharian dan kerugian immateriil Rp7 miliar atas dampak kesehatan serta penurunan kualitas hidup. Kasus ini dinilai akan menjadi preseden penting dalam penegakan hukum lingkungan di Indonesia, melanjutkan putusan sebelumnya yang menyatakan perusahaan telah melakukan perbuatan melawan hukum.

KPK Suspects Forestry Minister Did Not Return All Money from Suhardiman Amby

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) suspects Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni did not return the full amount of money left by non-active Kuantan Singingi Regent Suhardiman Amby during a meeting. Investigators believe only 12,000 Singapore dollars were returned, while the envelope originally contained a larger sum. The Minister had previously reported the incident as a rejected gratuity, but the KPK rejected his report as it was already investigating the case.

Law Minister Hopes National IP Master Plan 2027–2036 Becomes National Strategic Project

Minister of Law Supratman Andi Agtas has expressed hope that the National Intellectual Property (IP) Master Plan for 2027–2036 will be designated as a National Strategic Project. The plan aims to guide the development of Indonesia's IP ecosystem over the next decade and align policies across ministries. A national coordination team will be established to oversee its implementation and strengthen cross-sector synergy.

South Jakarta Social Sub-agency distributes 690 physical assistive devices to residents in need

The South Jakarta Social Sub-agency has distributed 690 physical assistive devices to residents in need, aiming to improve accessibility and independence for people with disabilities. Wheelchairs accounted for the majority of the aid, with 406 units distributed, followed by 195 hearing aids. The programme is part of the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government's social welfare services, with ongoing assessments to ensure aid is targeted appropriately.

ASDP Strengthens Operational Transformation with New Safety Standards

State-owned ferry operator PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry has simultaneously implemented new safety standards across six major ports to overhaul its operational culture. The port sterilisation programme, which includes access control systems and facial recognition, aims to enhance safety, order, and service efficiency. A transport expert described the move as a long-overdue strategic step in modernising the nation's ferry transport system.

Kim Jong Un's Sister Threatens Japan Over Military Build-Up

Kim Yo Jong, the influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, has warned Japan of 'additional military options' in response to Tokyo's recent cruise missile test. She accused Japan of transforming its armed forces into a pre-emptive strike capability under the direction of the United States. The statement marks one of Pyongyang's most strident threats against Tokyo in recent months.

Jakarta's poor population stands at 432,000 in March 2026

The number of people living in poverty in Jakarta fell to 432,620 in March 2026, a decrease of 6,500 compared to September 2025. The poverty rate now stands at 3.96 percent, placing the capital third lowest nationally behind Bali and South Kalimantan. Officials noted that post-pandemic economic recovery has contributed to the decline, though the rate has not yet fully returned to pre-pandemic levels.

House Commission IX Urges Health Ministry to Investigate Hospital After BPJS Patient's Death

The House of Representatives' Commission IX has called on the Ministry of Health to investigate a hospital following the death of a National Health Insurance (JKN) participant who reported waiting eight hours for an inpatient room. The commission highlighted persistent complaints that BPJS Kesehatan patients are often given lower priority compared to other patients. The ministry is also being asked to address reports of cynical comments made by some healthcare workers regarding the patient's social media post.

Indonesia's economy grows 5.29 percent despite global uncertainty

Indonesia's economy expanded by 5.29 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026, maintaining growth above 5 percent for seven consecutive years despite global geopolitical tensions and trade friction. Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto attributed the resilience to strong structural performance, with Bali and Nusa Tenggara leading regional growth at 6.1 percent and the construction sector surging 6.68 percent, driven by government housing programmes. The government plans to further accelerate capital expenditure and industrial zone development to sustain momentum.

South Jakarta District Court Schedules Pretrial Hearing for Febrie Adriansyah

The South Jakarta District Court has scheduled initial hearings for two pretrial motions filed by former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah, on 18 and 19 August 2026. The motions challenge the procedures used by the National Police and the Attorney General's Office in naming him a suspect in separate corruption and money laundering cases. The hearings will examine the legality of the investigative measures, including detention, search, and seizure, related to the handling of the PT Asabri case.

Health Minister Meets BGN Chief, Accompanied by Nutritionists to Provide Input on Free Nutritious Meals

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin met with the newly appointed Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sudaryono, to discuss improvements to the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The meeting included expert nutritionists who provided recommendations on menu composition, service delivery in underdeveloped regions, and food safety protocols to prevent poisoning incidents. Sudaryono stated that the BGN plans to establish a permanent discussion group to ensure continuous expert input for the programme's development.

Police Arrest Three Mass Organisation Members for Attempting to Seize Shop House in Surabaya

Police in Surabaya have detained three members of a mass organisation for allegedly attempting to forcibly seize a shop house. The suspects were apprehended following an investigation, while authorities continue to hunt for additional accomplices based on witness statements and CCTV footage. The city's police chief stressed there would be zero tolerance for such thuggery.

Danantara to drive AI adoption across state-owned enterprises

Indonesia's Danantara and the State-Owned Enterprises Supervisory Board are finalizing a five-year transformation roadmap that includes a major push for artificial intelligence adoption. The plan outlines a phased approach starting with consolidation, followed by talent development, then innovation and AI integration in the third year to boost efficiency. The ultimate goal is to create globally competitive state-owned enterprises, with some expected to join the Fortune 500.

KKP to utilise village treasury land for thematic fish farming in Yogyakarta

The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) is set to launch a Thematic Aquaculture Programme across 64 villages in the Special Region of Yogyakarta, utilising Tanah Kas Desa (village treasury land). The initiative will employ Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) technology to boost fish production. It is also designed to supply protein for the government's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme.

South Jakarta Social Agency Reaches 644 Welfare Recipients by August 2026

The South Jakarta Social Sub-agency has reached 644 individuals in need of social welfare services between January and early August 2026. The majority of those reached were beggars, followed by neglected elderly and homeless individuals. The data collected will serve as the basis for further social rehabilitation, protection, and referral programmes by the regional government.

Argentina Regrets Brazil's Downgrade of Diplomatic Relations

Argentina has expressed regret over Brazil's decision to downgrade bilateral diplomatic relations to the chargé d'affaires level. The move comes amid escalating tensions following repeated criticisms of Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva by Argentine President Javier Milei. Brazil's action, which includes keeping its ambassador in Buenos Aires for consultations, marks one of the strongest diplomatic responses to Milei's administration to date.

Unsrat Manado Rector Dismissed, Ministry Appoints Unhas Rector as Acting Replacement

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology has abruptly dismissed the Rector of Sam Ratulangi University (Unsrat) in Manado before the end of his term. Professor Jamaluddin Jompa, the Rector of Hasanuddin University (Unhas), has been appointed as the acting rector. The appointment is effective immediately and will last until a definitive rector is elected.

Correctional Client in Ciangir Builds Successful Local Shoe Brand

A client of the Ciangir Correctional Centre (Bapas) has successfully established a local shoe brand, ARPRIZE, after receiving entrepreneurship guidance. The business now sells online and through physical outlets, exemplifying the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections' policy of fostering economic independence and social reintegration. Officials hope this success will inspire other clients and create job opportunities within the community.

Jetstar Australia to Charge for Overhead Cabin Baggage

Jetstar Australia will introduce a fee for storing cabin bags in overhead lockers from 2 February next year, as part of efforts to speed up boarding and improve punctuality. Passengers can still bring a small bag that fits under the seat for free, but using the overhead compartment will cost between A$25 and A$52 per flight. The move aligns the Qantas-owned budget carrier with other low-cost airlines that already charge for overhead bin use, while Australia's transport minister has urged transparency on all ancillary fees.