Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 5 August 2026

Showing 201-250 of 1,487 articles

Aceh Tamiang Government Accelerates Finalisation of Data for Phase III Housing Stimulus Aid

The Aceh Tamiang Regency Government is expediting the finalisation of data for the third phase of housing stimulus assistance for disaster-affected residents. The process involves verifying 15,640 potential recipient families through village heads to ensure accurate distribution. A total of 58,713 families have already been recorded as recipients in the previous five phases.

BRI Welcomes Government's Move to Optimise State Budget Surplus Placement

Bank BRI has expressed strong support for the Indonesian government's policy to place State Budget Surplus (SAL) funds within the banking system. The bank views this as a strategic synergy that will bolster banking liquidity and strengthen intermediation functions. BRI plans to channel the enhanced liquidity primarily towards productive sectors, particularly MSMEs, to drive sustainable national economic growth.

Bromo Wildfire Expands to 80 Hectares, Access Restricted

A wildfire in the Mount Bromo area of East Java has scorched 80 hectares of land, with flames spreading to the Watugede area and the Sea of Sand. Firefighting efforts are being hampered by steep terrain and strong winds, prompting authorities to deploy water-spraying drones to reach inaccessible hotspots. Access to the national park has been restricted from Malang and Lumajang to ensure public safety.

Australia's Religious Map Shifts: Christian Adherents Decline, Muslim Population Rises

Australia's religious landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, with census data showing a sharp decline in Christianity from 86.2% in 1971 to 43.9% in 2021, while other faiths, including Islam, have grown. This demographic shift is visibly altering urban spaces, as shrinking congregations sell historic churches that are increasingly being purchased by expanding Muslim communities. The trend reflects broader changes driven by migration and secularisation, with some former churches being repurposed into mosques to meet the demand for larger worship spaces.

Viral Post Claims Mother Died After Being Denied Emergency Care at Lampung Hospital

A social media post alleging a woman died after being refused treatment at the emergency department of RSUD Dr H Abdul Moeloek in Bandar Lampung has gone viral. The patient's child claimed medical staff deemed the mother's condition non-emergency, though she was later diagnosed with a stroke and required a blood transfusion. The hospital has denied any refusal of care, stating the patient was examined but will review its service procedures.

Traffic Accident Fatalities in July Fall by 22.92 Percent

Indonesia's National Police Traffic Corps (Korlantas Polri) reported a 22.92 percent decline in road accident fatalities in July 2026 compared to the previous month, with 441 fewer deaths. The improvement is attributed to enhanced law enforcement, education, and road safety management. However, the number of serious injuries rose by 11.05 percent, which will be a focus of future evaluation.

Decent Work in Indonesia: Striving for a Fair, Safe, and Productive Working World

The article discusses the concept of decent work in Indonesia, emphasising the need for fair wages, occupational safety, and social protection. It highlights the collaborative efforts required from the government, businesses, and workers to overcome challenges such as informal sector employment and the impact of digitalisation, aiming to create a more equitable and sustainable labour market.

Wife of Family Murder Victim in Palu Dies After 10 Days in Hospital

Nurhanisa, the wife of a man killed in a brutal family murder in Palu, Central Sulawesi, has died from her injuries after ten days of intensive care. She sustained severe stab wounds that caused organ damage and major haemorrhaging. The attack, which occurred in late July, also claimed the lives of her husband and their two-year-old son.

Former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah Files Two Pretrial Motions Challenging Suspect Designation

The legal team of former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) Febrie Adriansyah has lodged two separate pretrial motions with the South Jakarta District Court. The filings challenge the legality of his naming as a suspect in corruption and money laundering cases by both the Attorney General's Office and the National Police. The motions argue procedural violations, including an alleged failure to specify the predicate crime and the existence of a double suspect designation for the same substantive matter.

Controlled Inflation and Monetary Policy Credibility

Indonesia's Consumer Price Index remained within the target range in July 2026, with annual inflation easing to 2.88 per cent. The stability, driven by consistent monetary policy and strong government synergy, reflects the maintained credibility of Bank Indonesia's Inflation Targeting Framework. A significant drop in volatile food prices helped offset pressures from administered energy prices.

BPS Announces Indonesian Economy Grows 5.29% in Q2

Indonesia's economy expanded by 5.29% year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026, according to the Central Statistics Agency (BPS). The growth was supported by government incentive packages and incoming investment. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto expressed optimism that economic performance would remain robust in the third and fourth quarters, driven by accelerated government spending and investment.

BPS Indonesia and India's MOSPI Sign Statistical Cooperation Agreement at BRICS Meeting

Statistics Indonesia (BPS) and India's Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MOSPI) have formalised a partnership to strengthen institutional capacity. The agreement, signed during a BRICS meeting in Lucknow, focuses on human resource development, methodology exchange, and the digital transformation of statistical systems. The collaboration will also explore the use of artificial intelligence for data dissemination and the modernisation of digital data collection platforms.

US Revokes Visa of Brazilian Ambassador Maria Luiza Viotti Amid Escalating Diplomatic Tensions

The Trump administration has revoked the visa of Brazil's ambassador to the United States, Maria Luiza Ribeiro Viotti, in a tit-for-tat move that marks a new low in bilateral relations. Washington claims the action is reciprocal due to Brasilia's delay in approving President Trump's nominee for ambassador, a charge the Lula government denies, citing standard diplomatic protocols. The escalating feud is further complicated by Trump's support for the Bolsonaro family ahead of Brazil's upcoming elections.

Probolinggo Police Deploy Personnel to Help Extinguish Bromo Forest Fire

Probolinggo Police have deployed personnel to assist in extinguishing a forest and land fire in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. The joint team faces challenges from steep terrain and strong winds, which are causing the fire to spread rapidly. Authorities have urged the public and tourists to avoid activities that could spark further fires.

Home Affairs Minister Urges Padang Mayor to Use Rp 200 Billion for Water Drainage Repairs After Floods

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has instructed the Mayor of Padang to utilise a Rp 200 billion disaster budget to repair damaged PDAM water channels following recent flooding. The minister noted that while the current floods are less severe than those in November 2025, they have disrupted water infrastructure and caused significant waterlogging. Central government support, including river dredging by the public works ministry, is also being mobilised to mitigate future flooding.

BNPB Prepares Water Bombing Helicopters to Extinguish Mount Bromo Fires

The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) is deploying two water bombing helicopters to combat forest fires in the Mount Bromo area of East Java, which have been burning since Monday. Ground crews are struggling to access the difficult terrain, prompting the need for aerial support. The operation is being coordinated alongside ongoing firefighting efforts in six other provinces.

DPD RI Leadership Visits Jusuf Kalla's Residence to Deliver Annual Session Invitation

The leadership of Indonesia's Regional Representative Council (DPD RI) paid a visit to former Vice President Jusuf Kalla to extend an invitation to the upcoming annual parliamentary session. During the meeting, they discussed national dynamics and Kalla emphasised the importance of regional fiscal independence. The annual session, scheduled for 14 August 2026, will feature a state address by President Prabowo Subianto.

Thai PM Visits Permata Bank, Encourages RI-Thailand Investment

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited a Permata Bank branch in Jakarta, signalling strengthened economic ties between the two largest economies in ASEAN. The visit highlighted the historical role of Bangkok Bank, Permata's parent company, in facilitating cross-border trade and investment since 1968. The bank is expanding services like cross-border QR payments to support businesses and reduce transaction costs for SMEs.

Wind poses challenge in handling Pulang Pisau forest and land fires: BPBD

The Pulang Pisau Disaster Mitigation Agency has identified strong winds and limited water sources as major obstacles in controlling forest and land fires in Central Kalimantan. The blaze, which has already affected an estimated 122 hectares, is now spreading towards Taruna Village, prompting authorities to focus on building canal blocks. Officials are also awaiting favourable cloud conditions to conduct weather modification operations.

JKN Programme Becomes Lifeline for Herna Amid Dialysis Routine

Herna Sumiratna, a 41-year-old from Tasikmalaya, relies on the National Health Insurance (JKN) programme to cover the costs of her twice-weekly haemodialysis sessions. Diagnosed with chronic kidney failure three years ago, she describes the programme as a crucial support that allows her to focus on treatment without financial worry. Herna expressed hope that the government-backed scheme will continue to provide security for other patients with chronic illnesses.

Government Urged to Partner with Global Players to Build National Protein Industry

An economist has called for the Indonesian government to forge stronger partnerships with global-scale protein industry players to create an integrated and competitive national protein ecosystem. Piter Abdullah of the Prasasti Center for Policy Studies argues that merely boosting production is insufficient without coordinated investment, technology, and distribution policies. He highlighted that the fundamental challenge lies in the lack of policy orchestration linking upstream production to downstream market access, particularly given logistical weaknesses and the untapped potential of resources like fish in eastern Indonesia.

Ojol Drivers Reveal Daily Earnings After School Holidays End

Online motorcycle taxi (ojol) drivers in Jakarta report that their daily earnings remain stagnant at around Rp100,000 to Rp200,000 despite the start of the new school year. Drivers noted that the only noticeable change was the removal of additional fees on certain budget services, while overall income has yet to see a significant boost.

Constitutional Court Ruling Opens Door for Corruption Defendants to Challenge State Loss Calculations Based on BPKP Audits

A Constitutional Court ruling affirming the Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) as the sole authority for determining state losses could provide a new legal avenue for corruption defendants convicted based on audits by the Development Finance Comptroller (BPKP). Legal experts argue that the decision should compel courts to re-evaluate evidence in ongoing and past cases, including high-profile prosecutions, to ensure due process and constitutional compliance.

Indonesia Dispatches Deputy Foreign Minister to Jordan for Al-Aqsa Crisis Talks

Indonesia has sent its Deputy Foreign Minister to Amman for an emergency meeting of Islamic and Arab nations convened by Jordan to address escalating Israeli encroachment at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. The gathering follows a joint condemnation by eight nations, including Indonesia, of provocative actions by Israeli forces and extremist groups, which they view as a threat to peace and an illegal attempt to seize control of the holy site. The talks aim to coordinate a formal response to the ongoing siege and violations at the sacred complex in occupied Jerusalem.

Sustainable Mobility Transition Requires Collaboration Across All Stakeholders

The Indonesia Center for Mobility Studies (ICMS) has emphasised that transitioning to sustainable mobility demands collaboration among all stakeholders, not just a single perspective. Chairman Munawar Chalil highlighted the need for open dialogue to accommodate Indonesia's diverse geographical and cultural landscape as the country accelerates its vehicle electrification efforts.

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs guarantees Pertalite price will remain stable until year-end

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has assured the public that the price of subsidised Pertalite fuel will not increase until December 2026, following a direct order from President Prabowo Subianto. The government is also considering adjustments to non-subsidised fuel prices if global crude prices fall, while highlighting the B50 biodiesel mandate's role in reducing diesel imports and easing subsidy burdens.

Trade Minister Departs for BRICS Meeting in India to Discuss Strategic Trade Issues

Indonesian Trade Minister Budi Santoso has departed for India to attend the BRICS Trade Ministers' Meeting, where he will advocate for Indonesia's national interests. The forum will address strategic issues including global supply chain resilience, digital economy cooperation, and strengthening multilateral trade systems. Indonesia, which became a full BRICS member in 2025, will also hold bilateral talks with key partners such as India, Egypt, and the UAE to enhance economic ties.

Two More NTB DPRD Members Acquitted in 'Uang Siluman' Graft Case

The Mataram Corruption Court has acquitted two more members of the West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) in a case involving gratuities linked to a village empowerment programme. Indra Jaya Usman and Muhammad Nashib Ikroman were cleared of all charges, following the earlier acquittal of their co-defendant Hamdan Kasim. The case centred on the 'Desa Berdaya' programme, a gubernatorial priority project with a budget of IDR 76 billion that had not yet been disbursed.

Government to Roll Out Economic Incentive Package in Second Half of 2026

The Indonesian government has announced a series of economic incentives for the second half of 2026, including transport discounts, food aid, and tax breaks, to sustain growth above 5 per cent and curb inflation. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto detailed measures such as a 30 per cent discount on public transport during the Christmas and New Year holidays and the continuation of a national internship programme for 150,000 participants. The package also includes maintaining fuel subsidies and securing direct flight routes with Thailand and Belarus to boost tourism.

Living Alone, Buleleng Man Found Dead in Hut

A man with no known family, Made Mudana, was found deceased in a hut in Buleleng, Bali. The local Social Services Agency facilitated the handling and burial of his body, citing the government's responsibility to care for displaced citizens. Authorities confirmed he died from a chronic illness and had a history of being homeless.

Minister Wihaji: Family Support Teams Take on New Role Distributing Free Meals to 3B Group

Minister of Population and Family Development Wihaji announced that Family Support Teams (TPK) have been assigned the additional task of distributing the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme to pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers not in early education (the 3B group). The initiative, mandated by Presidential Regulation No. 115 of 2025, aims to expand nutritional services and includes an educational component. Minister Wihaji noted the programme is unique to Indonesia, as most countries only provide free meals to schoolchildren.

TNI AU Aims to Boost Pilot Numbers and Quality Amid Fleet Expansion

The Indonesian Air Force is prioritising the increase in both the number and quality of its pilots in response to President Prabowo Subianto's ambitious military modernisation programme. This drive follows the planned delivery of numerous new aircraft, including Rafale fighters and A400M transport planes, starting in 2026. The Defence Ministry has also confirmed the purchase of M-346F Block 20 jets to serve as advanced trainers, with deliveries expected to begin in 2030.

Hendri Satrio Complies with Tax Office Summons Over Ferry Latuhihin Podcast

Political analyst Hendri Satrio attended a tax clarification summons related to a podcast featuring economist Ferry Latuhihin. He praised the professionalism of the tax officers and clarified that he only gave Latuhihin cookies, not cash, as a token of appreciation. Satrio urged the public to respect institutional procedures and not avoid government summonses.

Iran's 'Weapon' Stronger Than Nuclear: How Tehran Outmanoeuvred the US at the Strait of Hormuz

Iran's ability to disrupt global energy trade through the Strait of Hormuz has proven a more effective strategic tool than nuclear weapons, leaving the United States struggling to respond. Analysts suggest Tehran's low-cost maritime pressure campaign inflicts significant economic pain on the global economy while avoiding the international condemnation associated with weapons of mass destruction. The strategy has also complicated US diplomatic efforts, with Iran shifting negotiations towards maritime security rather than its nuclear programme.

Presidential Staff Office Confirms Operational Readiness of Bandung Integrated People's School

The Presidential Staff Office has verified the operational readiness of the Integrated People's School (SRT) 4 in Bandung, West Java, marking a new chapter for 560 students. The school, which spans primary to upper secondary levels, is part of the government's priority to expand equitable access to quality education and combat poverty. The programme also includes a character-building initiative led by military and police academy cadets.

Danantara: Innovation and AI to be a focus of SOE transformation

Danantara and the SOE Supervisory Board (BP BUMN) are finalising a five-year strategic roadmap for state-owned enterprises, with innovation and artificial intelligence slated as a key focus in the third year. The roadmap outlines a phased approach starting with consolidation and restructuring, followed by talent development, before moving towards technology adoption and value creation. The ultimate goal is to build globally competitive Indonesian SOEs capable of entering the Fortune 500 list.

UGM Supports Family of BPJS Patient Who Died After Doctor's Dismissive Comments

Gadjah Mada University's Faculty of Medicine is providing support to the family of a deceased BPJS patient and has launched an investigation after a trainee doctor allegedly made disparaging remarks about the patient online. The faculty has pledged to take firm action if ethical violations are confirmed and will conduct a comprehensive review of its clinical education system. The incident sparked public outcry after the patient, who had complained about long waiting times, passed away shortly after the online exchange.

Minister Fadli Zon: Over 15,000 Proposals Submitted for 'Dana Indonesiaraya' Cultural Fund

Minister of Culture Fadli Zon announced that the Dana Indonesiaraya cultural endowment programme has received a record-breaking 15,000 proposals from communities and cultural practitioners. The government has allocated IDR 360 billion for distribution this year, with the total managed fund increasing to IDR 6 trillion following a recent IDR 1 trillion injection from the Ministry of Finance.

Toyota Responds to Minister's Call to Shift Production Base from Thailand to Indonesia

Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indonesia has responded to Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa's public invitation to relocate its regional production base from Thailand to Indonesia. While acknowledging the technical feasibility, Toyota's local president director Nandi Julyanto stressed that the decision hinges on the established supplier ecosystem, noting that the commercial vehicle supply chain is deeply rooted in Thailand. The minister had offered significant incentives, arguing Indonesia's large domestic market makes it a more logical hub for the ASEAN region.

Indonesia and Panama Strengthen Economic, Trade, and Investment Ties

Indonesia and Panama have agreed to bolster bilateral cooperation, focusing on economic, trade, and investment relations. The commitment was made during a meeting between their respective deputy foreign ministers in Jakarta. Both nations are encouraging business participation in upcoming international forums to expand commercial opportunities in the Caribbean and Latin America.

US Military Confirms Use of Elon Musk's Grok AI in Iran Conflict

The Pentagon has officially confirmed the use of xAI's Grok chatbot in military operations against Iran, marking the first formal acknowledgment of the AI's role in combat targeting. The disclosure emerged during a legal defence against an environmental lawsuit, where a defence official stated that Grok AI was used to strike over 2,000 targets within 96 hours. The revelation comes amid separate controversies over the Pentagon's revision of US casualty figures in the ongoing conflict.

What Is Known About the US Plan to Close Its Consulate in Medan

The United States is planning to close its consulate in Medan, Indonesia, as part of a rare, broader efficiency drive under the Trump administration to reduce the size of the diplomatic bureaucracy. The Indonesian government has stated it respects the internal US decision and does not believe the closure will affect the strong bilateral relationship. The move is part of a plan to shutter five diplomatic missions globally, with the State Department yet to provide official notification to Jakarta.

Drought Expands in Banyumas, Forest and Land Fire Threat Increases

The prolonged dry season in Banyumas Regency, Central Java, has left over 23,000 residents struggling with water shortages, while the risk of forest and land fires intensifies. Local authorities have distributed hundreds of thousands of litres of clean water and are urging the public to avoid open burning.

Prabowo to Deliver Speech at MPR Annual Session on 14 August, Former Presidents and Vice Presidents Invited

President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to deliver a state address at the MPR Annual Session on 14 August 2026. MPR Speaker Ahmad Muzani confirmed that former presidents, vice presidents, ministers, and foreign ambassadors have been invited, though invitations are still being printed.

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Calls for Increased Patrols to Prevent Vigilantism

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago has instructed the TNI and Polri to increase patrols and swiftly localise any incidents to prevent vigilante actions. The government is prioritising prevention and educational outreach through local administrations, while also employing a familial approach to resolve existing conflicts. The appeal comes as the country prepares to celebrate the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence.

Government to Continue Food Aid, Transport Discounts, and Job Programmes in Second Half of 2026

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto announced the continuation of several key programmes for the second half of 2026, including rice aid for 33.24 million beneficiaries and transport discounts. The government is also expanding vocational internships for 150,000 Gen Z participants and targeting increased foreign tourist arrivals through new international flight routes. Foreign tourist arrivals rose 5.71 percent year-on-year to 7.4 million in the first half of 2026.

136 Students and Headmaster Affected by Mass Diarrhoea Outbreak at Rembang Junior High School

A mass diarrhoea outbreak has struck SMPN 5 Rembang, affecting 136 students, seven teachers, and the headmaster. The cause remains unknown, with health authorities investigating whether it stems from food, contagion, or other factors. No other schools in the district have reported similar incidents.

Government, Not Pertamina, Imports Russian Oil via Lemigas

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia clarified that the import of crude oil from Russia is conducted directly by the state through Lemigas, not by Pertamina, under a government-to-government scheme. The first shipment has been realised and a second is underway, with plans for a long-term contract to secure national energy reserves. This follows a commitment from Russia to supply up to 150 million barrels at a special price, secured during President Prabowo's visit to Moscow.

Nadiem's Chromebook Appeal Highlights Rp 809 Billion Replacement Payment

Former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim's legal team has launched an appeal against his corruption conviction in the Chromebook procurement case, specifically challenging the court's order for him to pay Rp 809 billion in restitution. The defence argues the trial court wrongly assumed Google profited from the scheme without proof and ignored a state audit that found no overpricing. Nadiem was previously sentenced to 10 years in prison for causing state losses of Rp 1.56 trillion.

Family Disputes Police Account of Woman's Death in Medan, Alleges Abuse

The family of a woman found dead in Medan has disputed the police conclusion of suicide, claiming her body showed signs of abuse including bruises and strangulation marks. The victim's father stated that the body, examined at Bhayangkara Hospital, had bruises on multiple body parts and a stitched wound under the chin, contradicting the official report of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Police maintain the death was a suicide based on a forensic examination and witness statements from the victim's ex-husband, a police officer, and their child.