Archive: 7 August 2026
Showing 1-50 of 1,438 articles
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:57 WIB
Cinta Laura Highlights Healthcare Service Concerns After Yurizal Tri Chaerawan's Viral Complaint
Actress Cinta Laura has weighed in on the public outcry surrounding Yurizal Tri Chaerawan's experience of waiting eight hours for hospital treatment under the BPJS Kesehatan scheme. She urged a broader reflection on whether Indonesia's healthcare system has created a disparity in patient treatment based on insurance status. Laura emphasised that timely medical care and empathy should be a right for all, not a privilege for those with private insurance.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:56 WIB
Bahlil Recounts Journey from Stonemason's Son to Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources
Minister Bahlil Lahadalia shared his remarkable life story, rising from a humble upbringing in Papua as the son of a stonemason and a domestic worker to becoming a cabinet minister and Chairman of the Golkar Party. He credited his success to hard work, loyalty, and commitment, rather than physical appearance or formal education. Bahlil emphasised that his family's financial struggles, including food shortages, were instrumental in shaping his character and principles.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:53 WIB
Trump Tightens Rules on Birthright Citizenship
President Donald Trump has signed two executive orders aimed at further restricting birthright citizenship in the United States. The orders expand the categories of individuals deemed ineligible for automatic citizenship and seek to ban the practice of 'birth tourism'. The move follows a recent Supreme Court ruling that upheld the constitutional guarantee of citizenship for all children born on US soil.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:50 WIB
Japan Sets Guidelines to Protect Voice Actors from Unauthorised AI Use
Japan's Ministry of Justice has issued new guidelines expanding publicity rights to protect voice actors and celebrities from unauthorised AI-generated imitations. The guidelines classify the creation and distribution of fake audio for profit as a human rights violation, potentially leading to compensation claims. The move aims to curb the spread of deepfake videos while encouraging the broader use of AI technology.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:50 WIB
LPEU MUI Encourages More Professional Organisational Governance for the Ummah
The Indonesian Ulema Council's Economic Empowerment Institute (LPEU MUI) is pushing for improved governance within Islamic community organisations. A two-day risk management training programme was held in Jakarta for leaders from 40 MUI commissions, bodies, and institutions. The initiative aims to address a fundamental weakness in organisational and institutional management among the Muslim community.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:49 WIB
Ombudsman to strengthen oversight of three national priority programmes
The Indonesian Ombudsman will intensify systemic oversight of the Free Nutritious Meals, Sekolah Rakyat, and Koperasi Merah Putih programmes in 2026. The institution has been monitoring these initiatives since 2025 and has already provided input to the government. It is also collaborating with the Commonwealth Ombudsman Office of Australia to enhance its supervisory capacity.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:48 WIB
BUMN Streamlining Oversight Team Strengthens Regulations for SOE Transformation
A cross-agency team is reinforcing the legal framework to accelerate the transformation of Indonesia's state-owned enterprises (BUMN). The initiative aims to provide legal certainty and good governance for consolidation, mergers, divestments, and restructuring processes. By mid-2026, 274 BUMN entities and subsidiaries have been reorganised to enhance efficiency and competitiveness.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:45 WIB
Fatal Accident at Traffic Light: Bone Police Officer Claims Brake Failure
A police officer in Bone, South Sulawesi, was involved in a fatal collision that killed a four-year-old child, with the officer claiming brake failure caused the crash. The incident occurred when the officer's vehicle struck a motorcycle waiting at a red light. The officer has surrendered to authorities and is undergoing further investigation, with initial drug tests returning negative.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:45 WIB
Jakarta Regional Revenue Agency Building in Gambir Catches Fire, 100 Firefighters Deployed
A fire broke out at the Jakarta Regional Revenue Agency (Bapenda) building on Jalan Abdul Muis in Gambir, Central Jakarta, on Friday evening. The Jakarta Fire and Rescue Service deployed 100 personnel and 20 fire engines to tackle the blaze, which was first reported around 9.30 pm local time. The cause of the fire and the extent of the damage remain unknown as firefighting operations continue.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:44 WIB
BP BUMN Records 274 State-Owned Enterprises Restructured in Transformation Drive
Indonesia's State-Owned Enterprise Supervisory Agency (BP BUMN) has streamlined 274 state-owned companies as part of a major transformation programme, with a target to reduce the total number of SOEs to 250. The restructuring has already yielded positive results, including the rehabilitation of fertiliser plants and the commencement of fertiliser exports to Australia. The initiative aims to enhance operational performance and create greater value for the national economy.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:44 WIB
Ex-KPK Investigator: Case of Former Jampidsus Requires Continued Public Scrutiny
A former Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) investigator has urged the public to maintain close oversight of the money laundering investigation into former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) Febrie Adriansyah. Yudi Purnomo Harahap stressed that public forums and discussions are vital to ensure the Attorney General's Office conducts the probe objectively and thoroughly. The case has drawn significant attention following the seizure of substantial evidence, including cash in multiple currencies and approximately 74 kilogrammes of gold bullion.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:41 WIB
Daniel Johan Receives detiktimur Awards 2026 as 'Legislator Championing Fishermen and Farmers'
Member of Parliament Daniel Johan has been honoured with the 'Legislator Championing Fishermen and Farmers' award at the detiktimur Awards 2026 for his advocacy in the agriculture and fisheries sectors. His notable achievements include successfully pushing for a revision of non-tax state revenue tariffs and spearheading a major recovery programme for the Sambas orange industry in West Kalimantan. The initiative, which involved the development of 2,400 hectares of integrated orange plantations, helped revive local production and improve the livelihoods of farmers following a severe crop crisis.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:40 WIB
995 Weapons Found in School, DPR Suspects Network Exploiting Education
A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has urged a thorough police investigation after 995 weapons and narcotics were discovered at a private school in South Jakarta. The lawmaker suspects a criminal network may have used the educational institution to store illegal items. The alleged owner claims the airsoft guns were licensed and intended for a now-defunct extracurricular activity, a claim the school has denied.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:37 WIB
Indonesia GDP Growth Beats Forecasts at 5.29% in Q2-2026
Indonesia's economy expanded by 5.29% year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026, surpassing analyst expectations despite a moderation from the previous quarter. Growth was underpinned by robust household consumption during the school holiday period and a significant surge in government spending, notably from civil servant bonuses and the Free Nutritious Meal Programme. However, a sharp rise in imports driven by strong domestic demand caused net exports to become a drag on overall GDP.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:36 WIB
AI Cinefest 2026 Collects 1,111 AI-Made Films from Across Indonesia
Telkomsel, in partnership with Huawei and MiniMax, successfully gathered 1,111 short films created using artificial intelligence from all over Indonesia for the AI Cinefest 2026 competition. The initiative aims to foster a new ecosystem for AI creators, with the top 100 participants receiving curated workshops on generative AI film production. The event culminated in an exhibition and awards ceremony in Jakarta, where Brilian Fairiandi's 'GEMA' won first prize.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:34 WIB
Telkom Continues Rp 49.85 Trillion Fibre Business Spin-Off to Infranexia
PT Telkom Indonesia is proceeding with the second phase of spinning off its wholesale fibre connectivity business to its subsidiary, PT Telkom Infrastruktur Indonesia (Infranexia), in a deal valued at Rp 49.85 trillion. The move is part of Telkom's strategy to become a strategic holding company and strengthen its B2B infrastructure pillar. The transfer includes assets, liabilities, and customer contracts, with Telkom's stake in Infranexia set to increase significantly.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:30 WIB
Telkom Completes Phase II InfraCo Spin-Off, InfraNexia to Manage Over 90% of Network Assets
PT Telkom Indonesia has finalised the second phase of its InfraCo spin-off, transferring assets worth Rp49.9 trillion to its subsidiary PT Telkom Infrastruktur Indonesia (InfraNexia). The move consolidates over 90 per cent of Telkom's network assets under InfraNexia, including 112,000 kilometres of fibre optic cable. The strategic restructuring aims to optimise digital infrastructure management and accelerate national connectivity.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:30 WIB
Open-Close System on Palembang–Jambi Highway Causes Prolonged Congestion
Traffic congestion has plagued the Palembang–Jambi Eastern Highway for two weeks due to road concreting works at KM 17 Palembang–Betung. The implementation of an open-close traffic system forces vehicles from both directions to alternate passage, causing queues stretching for kilometres. Authorities have urged motorists to adjust their travel schedules and follow the directions of officers on site.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:28 WIB
Minister of Law Demands Faster Handling of Intellectual Property Violation Reports
Minister of Law Supratman Andi Agtas has instructed his ministry to accelerate the processing of intellectual property (IP) violation reports, provided sufficient evidence exists, to ensure legal certainty for the public. The Directorate General of Intellectual Property (DJKI) is actively enforcing IP laws, recently seizing 10,000 pairs of shoes suspected of trademark counterfeiting. The ministry is also providing online complaint services and assisting regional investigators to strengthen legal proceedings.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:28 WIB
Dozens of SMKN 39 Jakarta Students Take Part in YARSI Psychology Faculty Psychometric Test Training
Fifty-one students from SMKN 39 Jakarta participated in a psychometric test training programme organised by the Faculty of Psychology at YARSI University. The initiative aims to address the gap between students' technical skills and their readiness for corporate recruitment selection processes, as many vocational school graduates struggle with the psychological testing stage. The programme, funded by a university community service grant, prioritised final-year students intending to enter the workforce immediately after graduation.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:27 WIB
PT King Nusantara and Investor Consortium Propose Clean Water Project in Cirebon
PT King Nusantara, alongside a consortium of investors, has presented a plan for the Cirebon Integrated Renewable Desalination Project to the Ministry of Investment. The project prioritises providing clean water to the Cirebon community, with a commitment to employing 95% local workers. It is intended to serve as a precursor to the development of a Special Economic Zone (KEK) in the region.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:25 WIB
Dozens of Primary School Students in Sidoarjo Hospitalised After Suspected Canteen Food Poisoning
Twenty-three students from an Islamic primary school in Sidoarjo, East Java, were rushed to hospital on Friday evening after allegedly consuming contaminated frozen food from the school canteen. Medical staff reported the children suffered from digestive tract infections, with symptoms including severe abdominal pain and weakness. Police are investigating the incident and have secured food samples for forensic testing.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:23 WIB
Barantin Chief Ensures Optimal Quarantine Services to Safeguard Shrimp Exports
The head of Indonesia's Quarantine Agency, Abdul Kadir Karding, has affirmed that quarantine services are operating optimally to support the nation's shrimp exports. During a visit to PT Bogatama Marinusa in Makassar, he inspected the integrated quality control systems ensuring exported seafood meets international health and safety standards. The agency plays a crucial role in maintaining trade flows, with the company having exported 859 tonnes of shrimp worth Rp148.2 billion in the first half of 2026.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:18 WIB
KY reveals dissenting opinions among commissioners on three Supreme Court candidates
The Judicial Commission (KY) has disclosed that internal disagreements arose during the selection of three Supreme Court candidates for 2026. The differing views concerned one candidate each from the criminal, civil, and religious chambers. Despite the dissent, the plenary meeting finalised 14 candidates to be proposed to the House of Representatives for approval.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:18 WIB
AHY's 'Gerakan Langit Biru' Expands Clean Water Aid Across Madura Island
Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) has expanded the 'Gerakan Langit Biru Indonesia ASRI' programme to distribute clean water to drought-affected villages and Islamic boarding schools across Madura Island. The initiative, which also includes waste transport vehicles, tree planting, and free health checks, is scheduled to run until the end of August 2026.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:18 WIB
Coffee and cocoa a livelihood for millions of Indonesians: Bappenas
Indonesia's Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas) has highlighted the strategic importance of coffee and cocoa as a livelihood for millions of smallholder farmers, while acknowledging their increasing vulnerability to climate change. A new pilot project, launched in collaboration with international and national insurers, aims to develop a national parametric insurance scheme to strengthen farmers' resilience and protect the competitiveness of these key export commodities. The initiative is part of broader efforts aligned with the 2025-2029 National Medium Term Development Plan to enhance access to financing and sustainable market access.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:16 WIB
Fire Rages at Suryakencana Meadow in Mount Gede Pangrango National Park
A wildfire broke out at the Suryakencana Meadow within Mount Gede Pangrango National Park in Cianjur, West Java, but has since been brought under control. Authorities are still working to extinguish remaining hotspots at the nearby Kawah Wadon crater. While the cause remains under investigation, dry vegetation due to the prolonged dry season is suspected to be a contributing factor.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:15 WIB
BPK Reminds Ministries and Agencies: Unqualified Opinion Is Not the Final Goal
The Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) has cautioned 11 ministries and agencies that obtaining an Unqualified Opinion (WTP) on their financial reports should not be seen as the ultimate achievement. The BPK stressed that the clean audit opinion must serve as a foundation for continuously improving transparent and accountable governance. The board also highlighted the need for government entities to prepare for the transition towards Government 5.0, integrating digital technology and artificial intelligence into public administration.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:14 WIB
Hajj Village Project Enters Design Finalisation Phase, Rosan Reports to Prabowo
Minister Rosan Roeslani has updated President Prabowo Subianto on the progress of the Hajj Village project in Makkah, which is now entering the design finalisation stage. The President also issued directives to streamline bureaucracy in large state-owned enterprises to improve efficiency and decision-making.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:10 WIB
Customs and Police Foil Smuggling of 10.1 kg of Cannabis at Bali Airport
Customs and police officers at Bali's Ngurah Rai Airport have intercepted an attempt to smuggle 10.1 kilogrammes of cannabis into Indonesia. Two Indian nationals arriving from Thailand were arrested in connection with the seizure. Authorities estimate the operation saved over 2,000 people from potential drug abuse and prevented significant economic losses.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:09 WIB
Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey Sign Tripartite Defence Pact in Mecca
Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey have formalised a new collective security alliance named the Mecca Joint Deterrence Agreement. The pact, signed in Mecca, commits the three Sunni-majority nations to mutual defence in response to escalating regional tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the Houthis. The agreement aims to enhance military coordination, intelligence sharing, and defence industrial independence among the signatories.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:07 WIB
INDEF: Sharia PFII Could Be a Differentiating Bargaining Chip
The Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (INDEF) argues that a sharia-compliant framework could provide a unique and durable competitive advantage for Indonesia's planned International Financial Centre (PFII). They caution that relying solely on tax incentives and regulatory ease would create a structurally weak model. INDEF urges the government to strengthen sharia norms institutionally within the law to ensure long-term certainty for global investors.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:04 WIB
Human Creativity Remains Key in AI-Assisted Filmmaking, Say Experts
Despite the technical ease that artificial intelligence brings to film production, Indonesian experts stress that human creativity is still the essential element in crafting compelling stories. They argue that skills in curation, emotional storytelling, and pacing are what differentiate meaningful AI-generated content from generic output. The ability to select the best AI results and understand the characteristics of different AI models is also deemed crucial for creators.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:04 WIB
AGO Confirms Febrio Adiono Is Administrative Staff, Not a Prosecutor
The Attorney General's Office (AGO) has clarified that Febrio Adiono, linked to the mysterious death of a man named Sutrimo, is an administrative employee and not a prosecutor. Anang Supriatna, Head of the AGO's Legal Information Centre, confirmed Febrio is a staff member formerly assigned to ex-Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah. The clarification comes as police continue to investigate the death of Sutrimo, whose body was found outside a clinic in South Jakarta.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:04 WIB
Erick Thohir to Evaluate Indonesian National Team After AFF 2026 Exit
Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) Chairman Erick Thohir has pledged a thorough evaluation following the national team's failure to advance to the semifinals of the AFF 2026 Championship. Indonesia finished third in Group A after a 1-1 draw against Singapore, despite taking the lead through a Ragnar Oratmangoen goal. The result has prompted calls for introspection, including from President Prabowo Subianto, as the team shifts focus to future tournaments.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:03 WIB
Middle East War Expands: Houthi Attacks on US Allies and Sea Lane Blockades Threaten Saudi Economy
The conflict in the Middle East has escalated significantly as Iran-backed Houthi rebels launch attacks on Saudi Arabia and enforce a naval blockade in the Red Sea. The renewed hostilities threaten Saudi Arabia's economic ambitions by crippling oil export routes and have drawn the Kingdom into a multi-front military engagement alongside the US. The collapse of the de facto ceasefire has also plunged Yemen back into full-scale war, exacerbating a dire humanitarian crisis.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:00 WIB
Scientists Use AI to Create New Viable Virus, Sparking Biosafety Debate
Researchers have successfully used an artificial intelligence model to design entirely new, viable viruses that can infect and kill bacteria. While the breakthrough, published in Science, holds promise for medical interventions like combating drug-resistant pathogens, it has also ignited urgent discussions about biosafety and the potential misuse of AI for engineering dangerous pathogens.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 23:00 WIB
Expert Urges Tight Supervision of Case Involving Former Jampidsus
Legal expert Muhammad Reza Syarifuddin Zaki has called for rigorous monitoring of the investigation into the former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus), Febrie Adriansyah. He highlighted the potential involvement of other elite figures and corporations, suggesting that the case's development could reveal multiple responsible parties. Reza also stressed the need for public oversight to ensure transparency, especially if influential figures or ministries are implicated.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 22:58 WIB
Danantara Indonesia Invests US$2.5 Billion in JBS Australia-New Zealand Operations
Danantara Indonesia, through its investment arm, is acquiring a stake in JBS Group's Australia and New Zealand operations for US$2.5 billion. The joint venture grants Danantara a 25% ownership and includes potential for an additional US$2.5 billion in funding. The partnership aims to strengthen the regional protein supply chain and support the development of Indonesia's domestic protein sector.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 22:57 WIB
Prabowo reaffirms commitment to empowering vulnerable communities
President Prabowo Subianto has reiterated his administration's dedication to uplifting vulnerable communities through infrastructure and public service improvements. Speaking at a book launch, he highlighted the construction of thousands of village bridges, with a target to renovate over 70,000 schools by 2026 and all community health centers that have lacked repairs for decades. Prabowo stressed that the government will directly intervene if local authorities fail to meet the needs of their residents.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 22:56 WIB
Bahlil's Story: Securing USD 8.6 Billion Investment Without Speaking English
Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia recounted how he successfully secured USD 8.6 billion in investment commitments from China, Japan, and South Korea despite not using English during negotiations. He made the remarks during the launch of a book chronicling his career, highlighting the achievement as a key moment during his tenure at the Investment Ministry. Bahlil noted that the deals were closed despite the institution's previously limited authority and his own lack of English proficiency.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 22:56 WIB
Five Stars Club Bali Closed Following Police Raid, 53 Detained
The Five Stars Club in Denpasar, Bali, remains completely shut down a day after a raid by the National Police's Criminal Investigation Directorate (Bareskrim). Police have sealed off the premises and detained 53 individuals as suspects and witnesses. The operation, which took place late at night, also resulted in the seizure of various types of narcotics evidence.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 22:55 WIB
BI: Housing and Industrial Estates Strengthen Investment in Banten
Bank Indonesia reports that the property and industrial estate sectors dominated investment realisation in Banten during the second quarter, securing the province's position as the fifth-largest investment destination nationally. The strong capital inflow, particularly in housing and industrial zones, has propelled Banten's economic growth, supported by national strategic projects and government spending programmes.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 22:55 WIB
AI Can Now Analyse Voice to Detect Signs of Disease
Researchers are developing artificial intelligence to analyse subtle changes in the human voice, potentially enabling non-invasive screening for conditions such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and heart failure. The technology, known as vocal biomarkers, uses AI to detect health indicators in speech patterns, though it is not yet ready for clinical diagnosis. A new scientific framework aims to standardise research and validation before the tool can be widely adopted in healthcare settings.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 22:54 WIB
Fire Engulfs Jakarta Regional Revenue Agency Building, 100 Firefighters Deployed
A major fire broke out at the DKI Jakarta Regional Revenue Agency (Bapenda) building on Jalan Abdul Muis, Gambir, Central Jakarta, on Friday night. The Jakarta Fire and Rescue Service deployed 20 fire engines and 100 personnel to combat the blaze, which reportedly engulfed nearly half of the structure. The cause of the fire and any potential casualties remain unknown as firefighting operations continue.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 22:54 WIB
Virtue Diagnostics Adds Investment, Aims to Make Indonesia the ASEAN Diagnostic Equipment Manufacturing Base
PT Virtue Diagnostics Indonesia is expanding its molecular diagnostics production line in Cikarang, aiming to position Indonesia as a manufacturing hub for In Vitro Diagnostics in Southeast Asia. The company has added investment in 2026 for new product development and has begun exporting Indonesian-made reagents and instruments to the Philippines. It is urging the government to implement more supportive policies, such as value-based procurement and protection for high local content products, to counter market uncertainty and a slowdown in public health equipment spending.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 22:52 WIB
Yemen Conflict Escalation: Houthis Launch Fresh Missile Barrage at Marib and Hadramout
Houthi forces have intensified their offensive in Yemen, launching a series of missile attacks on military camps in Marib and Hadramout, resulting in dozens of casualties. The escalation, which includes threats to Saudi Arabia and global energy infrastructure, has drawn sharp condemnation from the Gulf Cooperation Council and prompted Riyadh to form a new international defence alliance. Analysts warn that the renewed hostilities signal a shift away from de-escalation, raising the risk of a broader regional conflict.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 22:51 WIB
Bahtra Banong Honoured with 'Aspirational Legislator' Award for Agrarian Justice and Social Advocacy
Deputy Chair of Commission II of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Bahtra Banong, has received the 'Aspirational Legislator for Social and Agrarian Justice' award at the detiktimur Awards 2026. The accolade recognises his commitment to addressing land conflicts in Central Sulawesi and advocating for the welfare of contract-based government employees (PPPK). His efforts include mediating disputes over land management rights and pushing for central government funding to secure PPPK salaries amidst regional fiscal constraints.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 22:50 WIB
Bandung City Government Prepares 'Buy The Service' Scheme to Accelerate Street Lighting Management
The Bandung City Government is planning a 'buy the service' scheme to overhaul its public street lighting (PJU) management, moving away from manual monitoring. Facing a significant budget gap where the required Rp350 billion far exceeds the allocated Rp45 billion, the city intends to pay providers for comprehensive lighting services, including automated monitoring and maintenance. This initiative aims to improve public safety and service quality, pending legislative approval and collaboration with provincial and central governments.
Fri, 07 Aug 2026, 22:49 WIB
Bahlil Recounts Securing US$8.6 Billion Investment from China, Japan, and South Korea Without Speaking English
Minister Bahlil Lahadalia shared his experience of negotiating US$8.6 billion in investments from China, Japan, and South Korea for Indonesia's electric vehicle battery ecosystem without using English. He described the former Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) as a 'toothless tiger' with limited authority and a budget of under Rp 800 billion. Despite these constraints, Bahlil successfully secured the commitments through direct negotiations with ministers from the partner nations.