Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 7 August 2026

Showing 701-750 of 1,438 articles

Police Summon Former Foundation Chairman Over Discovery of 996 Weapons in South Jakarta School

Jakarta police are investigating the discovery of 996 weapons, including one Franchi SP-AS 15 firearm and 995 air rifles, found in a storage room at a school in Pondok Pinang, South Jakarta. The former chairman of the foundation, identified as IW, has been summoned for questioning regarding the origin and purpose of the weapons. The single firearm was registered to a man named DS, who died in 2020, while the ownership status of the air rifles remains under investigation.

24 km of Prosiwangi Toll Road Sections 1 and 2 Ready for Operation

The Indonesian Ministry of Public Works has announced the completion of the first two sections of the Probolinggo–Situbondo–Banyuwangi (Prosiwangi) toll road, spanning 24 kilometres. The project is a strategic component of the government's effort to boost regional economic equality and connectivity in East Java. The entire 175.4-kilometre toll road is expected to enhance logistics efficiency and support tourism in the eastern part of the island.

Home Affairs Ministry: Online SP2D Eases Regional Budget Disbursement

Indonesia's Ministry of Home Affairs has stated that the online implementation of the Fund Disbursement Order (SP2D), integrated with the Regional Government Information System (SIPD), will streamline and accelerate regional budget disbursement. The system aims to cut bureaucracy, enhance transparency, and strengthen accountability in local financial management. To date, 311 regional governments and 27 regional development banks have adopted the system.

1,260 Malaysia Airlines Pilots Face Mandatory Drug Tests After Soetta Arrest

Malaysia Airlines has mandated drug tests for all 1,260 of its pilots following the arrest of a co-pilot at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport for attempting to smuggle 26 kg of ecstasy. The Malaysian Aviation Group (MAG) announced the immediate measure as part of tightened safety and fitness-for-duty protocols, with a deadline of 15 August. Pilots who fail to comply will be grounded, and the mandatory testing will be extended to all active pilots and cabin crew across the group's other airlines.

Learning Activities Normal After Discovery of 995 Firearms at South Jakarta School, Says Foundation

The Harapan Ibu Foundation in South Jakarta has stated that teaching and learning activities remain normal and conducive following the shocking discovery of 995 firearms, pornographic videos, and drugs on the school premises. The foundation's legal representative alleged that the illicit items belonged to a former administrator with the initials 'IWD'. Authorities are investigating the case, which has caused public concern.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ribka Praises Handling of Suspected MBG Poisoning Victims in Jayapura

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ribka Haluk has commended the swift and collaborative response to a suspected mass poisoning linked to the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme in Jayapura. Following a hospital visit, she confirmed most patients have recovered and stressed that technical aspects, including food processing and oversight, will be improved. The government remains committed to the programme, which it considers vital for developing human resources in eastern Indonesia.

Minister: 'Pasti Ada Solusi' Programme Ensures 470 Services Accessible Without Hurdles

Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas has stated that the 'Pasti Ada Solusi' programme guarantees unimpeded access to 470 public services within his ministry. The initiative, launched in collaboration with the Indonesian Chinese Association (INTI), invites public feedback and criticism to improve service delivery. The minister emphasised that the programme reflects President Prabowo Subianto's directive for a service-oriented bureaucracy.

BPKH and Bank Muamalat Strengthen Synergy to Develop Hajj Ecosystem

Indonesia's Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) and Bank Muamalat are deepening their strategic partnership to create a more integrated national hajj ecosystem. The collaboration aims to expand digital services, increase new pilgrim registrations, and optimise the management of hajj funds. The initiative is expected to deliver tangible benefits for prospective pilgrims while reinforcing the Islamic banking sector.

Deputy Minister Wiyagus Calls on Civil Servants to Embrace Spirit of Sportsmanship for Independence Day

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Akhmad Wiyagus has urged government officials to commemorate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day by fostering unity, nationalism, and sportsmanship. Speaking at a badminton exhibition in Jakarta, he stressed that the anniversary should transcend mere ceremony and embody the values of struggle and perseverance. He noted that sports serve as an effective medium for instilling discipline and strengthening inter-agency communication.

Three Influencers Jailed in Senegal for Insulting President on Social Media

A Senegalese court has sentenced three TikTok influencers to prison and fined them for insulting the president, a move critics have condemned as an attack on free speech. The men worked for Feenal Digital, a communications channel previously linked to former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko. Their lawyer argued the posts were merely comical and did not warrant criminal prosecution.

Prabowo Jokes with New Nutrition Chief: 'Your White Hairs Have Increased After Just One Week'

President Prabowo Subianto light-heartedly teased the newly appointed Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sudaryono, about the stress of his role. Speaking at a book launch in Jakarta, Prabowo noted Sudaryono's increased white hairs and joked that he could not sleep due to worrying about children getting stomach aches from the free meals programme. The President also made humorous remarks about his own Indian ancestry while addressing other ministers.

UGM Academic Hospital Nurse Admits to Mocking BPJS Patient on Social Media

A nurse at Universitas Gadjah Mada's Academic Hospital (RSA UGM) has admitted to posting disparaging comments on social media about a BPJS Health patient who died after complaining of an eight-hour wait for a hospital bed. The hospital has temporarily suspended the nurse, Dika Purnomo Aji, pending a full investigation and coordination with the Indonesian National Nurses Association (PPNI) to determine further sanctions. The case has drawn public attention to ethical standards for healthcare workers on social media.

Minister Meutya Welcomes Indosat's AI Factory, Optimistic It Will Become ASEAN AI Hub

Communication and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid has welcomed the launch of Indosat's Zankore AI Factory, a project touted as Southeast Asia's largest. The facility, backed by an initial US$800 million investment, is expected to strengthen Indonesia's position as a regional hub for artificial intelligence development. The first phase of construction is scheduled to begin in the first half of 2027 in Batang, Central Java.

Deputy Minister Highlights Headmasters' Role in School Transformation and Quality

Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Fajar Riza Ul Haq has stressed that improving educational quality must begin with transformative school leadership. He noted that the era of chasing quantity is over, and headmasters must now build collaborative ecosystems to enhance learning. The government is also focusing on reducing the number of out-of-school children by optimising non-formal education and distance learning programmes.

BPS Lampung: 2026 Economic Census Progress Reaches 84.52 Percent

The 2026 Economic Census in Lampung Province has reached 84.52 percent completion, according to the region's statistics office. With a hypothetical target of 3.7 million entities, officials are optimistic the enumeration can be completed by 20 August. The census aims to provide high-quality data on all businesses and households in the province.

Ministry of Agriculture and Aceh Government Accelerate Post-Disaster Agricultural Recovery

The Ministry of Agriculture and the Aceh government are collaborating to expedite the recovery of the agricultural sector following a hydrometeorological disaster. A total of Rp 1.7 trillion has been allocated for support, but the disbursement of Rp 530 billion in direct regional funds has only reached 48 per cent realisation. Officials are urging local administrations to complete administrative requirements swiftly to ensure the remaining funds benefit affected farmers before the fiscal year ends.

West Lombok Cancels Regional Secretary Selection After KPK OTT, Deputy Regent Prioritises Stability

The West Lombok Regency Government has cancelled the open selection for Regional Secretary following the KPK's arrest of the inactive regent. Deputy Regent Nurul Adha stated the decision was made to maintain governmental stability and allow for consolidation. The current acting regional secretary will remain in post until October 2026.

Customs Foils 10 kg Cannabis Smuggling Attempt by Indian Teacher into Bali

Indonesian customs officials at Bali's Ngurah Rai Airport have intercepted over 10 kilograms of cannabis smuggled by two Indian nationals, including a teacher. The drugs, disguised as food souvenirs, were discovered during routine X-ray screening of luggage. Authorities estimate the seizure prevented potential economic losses of Rp3.3 billion and saved over 2,000 people from drug abuse.

Police Name Four Suspects in 52.5-Tonne Illegal Tin Sand Smuggling Case in Belitung

The Bangka Belitung Islands Police have named four individuals as suspects in the attempted smuggling of 52.5 tonnes of illegal tin sand from Belitung. The suspects allegedly sourced the material from unlicensed community mines and packaged it for shipment out of the island. Authorities are continuing to investigate the network behind the operation, which violates Indonesia's mineral and coal mining laws.

Indonesia outlines industrial transformation agenda at BRICS PartNIR

Indonesia has detailed its industrial transformation strategy at the BRICS PartNIR forum, focusing on Industry 4.0, green manufacturing, and supply chain resilience. The government highlighted initiatives including SME digitalisation, decarbonisation, and the use of its National Industrial Information System to strengthen international trade. Jakarta also expressed eagerness to develop joint capacity-building and innovation projects with fellow BRICS members.

MPR Leaders Visit Bung Hatta's Grave Ahead of 81st Independence Day

Leaders of Indonesia's People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) conducted a grave visit to former Vice President Mohammad Hatta in Jakarta as part of the 81st Independence Day commemorations. MPR Speaker Ahmad Muzani highlighted Hatta's foundational role in the nation's economy, including his drafting of constitutional economic provisions and his legacy as the father of Indonesian cooperatives. The pilgrimage is part of a new MPR tradition to honour national heroes, following a similar visit to Sukarno's grave in Blitar.

South Jakarta Police: No Shooting Extracurricular at School Where Hundreds of Firearms Were Found

South Jakarta Police have stated there was no shooting extracurricular activity at the private school in Pondok Pinang where 995 firearms, pornographic material, and drugs were discovered. This contradicts earlier claims by PT Lokta Karya Perbakin that the airsoft guns were licensed inventory for a shooting club that operated from 2020 until the coach's death in 2024. Police are continuing to investigate the intended use of the weapons and will inspect a suspected bunker on the premises at the foundation's request.

Tasikmalaya Hospital Employee Resigns After Mocking BPJS Patient

An administrative employee at a regional hospital in Tasikmalaya has resigned following public backlash over a viral social media post mocking a BPJS patient. The patient, Yurizal Tri Chaerawan, had complained about an eight-hour wait for treatment before his death, prompting a wave of unsympathetic comments from alleged healthcare workers. The Health Ministry and the Indonesian Health Council are now investigating potential ethical violations by at least ten medical professionals involved in the online harassment.

House Member Demands Thorough Probe After 995 Weapons Found at South Jakarta Private School

A legislator has urged law enforcement to conduct a comprehensive investigation following the discovery of 995 firearms, ammunition, narcotics, and pornographic materials at a private school foundation in South Jakarta. The find, which included weapons hidden in a concealed bunker, is considered a serious security threat and suggests fundamental legal violations. Police have secured the evidence and are examining the foundation's former chairman, while the governor has expressed full support for the investigation.

Indonesia Urges Malaysia, Thailand to Strengthen Joint Tourism and Connectivity

Indonesia is calling for enhanced tourism cooperation and regional connectivity within the Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle (IMT-GT) to boost economic competitiveness. The push, made during a meeting in Satun, Thailand, focuses on leveraging the sub-region's potential to create tangible benefits for local communities. The IMT-GT countries are targeting 50 million international tourist visits in 2026.

Bappenas Supports Perumnas in Building Subsidised Flats to Tackle Housing Backlog

The Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas) has endorsed Perumnas's accelerated construction of subsidised apartment towers to address the national housing backlog. Minister Rachmat Pambudy highlighted the urgent need for affordable housing, particularly for groups like teachers who face limited access. The initiative is part of a broader government agenda to ensure all Indonesians have access to decent housing.

Ministry of Agriculture Accelerates Disbursement of Aceh Agricultural Recovery Funds

The Ministry of Agriculture is urging the acceleration of Rp1.7 trillion in post-disaster recovery funds for Aceh's agricultural sector, with only 48% of direct regional aid disbursed so far. Delays are attributed to slow administrative processes, including the submission of farmer and location data by local governments. The Minister has called for swift action to ensure the remaining funds are utilised before the end of the fiscal year.

Video: 'The Big Short' Investor Warns of Potential Market Crash!

Michael Burry, the investor famed for predicting the 2008 subprime mortgage crisis, is sounding the alarm on Wall Street's record-breaking rally. He warns that the AI-fuelled market surge could be approaching a major peak, drawing a chilling comparison to the 1987 Black Monday crash. The warning comes as most investors continue to enjoy the ongoing bull market.

Tax Office's Coretax System to Be Inaccessible Over the Weekend

The Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has announced a scheduled maintenance of its information technology systems, including the Coretax platform, from Saturday evening to Sunday evening. The downtime will render the DJP website and Coretax system inaccessible, though a bypass for Taxpayer Status Confirmation (KSWP) will be provided. The maintenance aims to enhance the security, reliability, and performance of the tax authority's systems.

Students of South Sulawesi's 'Sekolah Rakyat' Welcome Minister with Paper Mob

Students at the Sekolah Rakyat (People's School) in Makassar, South Sulawesi, showcased their talents with a paper mob and various performances to welcome Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf. The minister praised the students' increased confidence and holistic development after one year of operation at the institution. Governor Andi Sudirman Sulaiman also noted the remarkable transformation of the students, who now possess clear aspirations for the future.

Hundreds of Firearms Found at South Jakarta School Belonged to Former Management

The new management of a private school foundation in Pondok Pinang, South Jakarta, claims no knowledge of hundreds of firearms discovered on the premises in July. The weapons were reportedly under the control of the foundation's previous administrators, who have since been dismissed. Police are now investigating the discovery and a sealed bunker on the site.

Police Investigate Narcotics and Pornographic CDs Found at South Jakarta Private School

Jakarta police are expanding their investigation into a private school in Pondok Pinang after discovering suspected narcotics and 30 pornographic CDs alongside nearly 1,000 weapons in a former foundation chairman's office. The discovery was made following an internal foundation dispute that led to the chairman's dismissal, granting the school access to the room. The former chairman's legal representative claims the weapons were licensed airsoft guns intended for a school extracurricular programme.

Hundreds of Weapons Found at South Jakarta School Foundation Suspected of Being Imported

Police are investigating the discovery of hundreds of air rifles and pistols at a private school foundation in Pondok Pinang, South Jakarta, which are suspected to have been imported. Documents found at the scene indicate the weapons were brought in under a 2008 import permit, though authorities are probing whether the storage location at the school was appropriate. The foundation's former chairman and a shooting sports company have claimed the weapons were legally acquired for a student extracurricular programme that ceased in 2022.

Central Kalimantan Equips Regions with Internet Infrastructure to Achieve Equal Access

The Central Kalimantan provincial government is distributing Starlink satellite internet devices to schools and health centres across 14 regencies and cities to bridge the digital divide. The initiative aims to overcome blank spot areas, enhance public services, and stimulate village economies through digital technology. Governor Agustiar Sabran emphasised that equitable development must include access to information and communication technology.

World Bank offers $750 million guarantee for Indonesia loans program

The World Bank is providing a $750 million guarantee to back a loan from HSBC to Bank Mandiri, aimed at expanding Indonesia's Kredit Usaha Rakyat (KUR) programme for micro, small, and medium enterprises. The funds will support lending to retail, service, and agricultural businesses, with a particular focus on women entrepreneurs who manage an estimated 65 percent of the country's MSMEs. This transaction highlights international confidence in Indonesia's economic fundamentals and its strategy to boost broad-based prosperity through formal credit access.

BPH Migas and BPSDM ESDM Prepare Supervisors for Subsidised Fuel Distribution

Indonesia's downstream oil and gas regulator BPH Migas and the Ministry of Energy's human resources agency are deploying graduates to strengthen oversight of subsidised fuel distribution. The initiative aims to ensure Biosolar and Pertalite reach eligible recipients. An initial cohort of 30 personnel, including field supervisors and data analysts, has completed training and will begin monitoring duties.

Children Often Ignored Due to Phones? Recognise the Dangers of Technoference for Families

A psychologist from Gadjah Mada University warns that 'technoference'—parental distraction by digital devices—can disrupt family interactions and harm children's emotional development. The phenomenon can make children feel neglected and reduce emotional closeness, highlighting that digital parenting is as crucial as managing children's screen time. Experts stress that warm relationships are more effective than technical controls in safeguarding children online.

Cipayung Landfill Closed for 3 Days Due to Depok Council Member's Celebration, Environmental Agency Responds

The Cipayung landfill in Depok was temporarily closed to private waste trucks for three days to accommodate a celebration held by a local councillor. The Depok Environmental Agency stated that municipal waste collection services continued unaffected, while the councillor involved has not yet responded to requests for comment.

KJRI: Indonesian cultural charm sails on Royal Kuching Cruise

The Indonesian Consulate General in Kuching celebrated Indonesia's 81st Independence Day with a cultural performance aboard the Royal Kuching Cruise on the Sarawak River. The event aimed to strengthen friendship with Sarawak through cultural diplomacy and showcase the richness of Indonesian arts and traditions to an international audience. It featured a fashion show of traditional Nusantara attire and an angklung musical performance, highlighting Indonesia's commitment to promoting its cultural heritage abroad.

Deputy Minister Isyana: Families Must Build a Culture Free from Violence

Deputy Minister of Population and Family Development, Ratu Ayu Isyana Bagoes Oka, has urged Indonesian families to foster a culture that does not tolerate violence to cultivate a healthy, intelligent, and resilient generation. She highlighted that a positive parenting environment is a crucial investment in developing superior human resources. Her call comes as data from mid-2025 recorded 13,845 cases of violence against children, with the majority of violations occurring within the family and alternative care settings.

RI clears $124 million mineral exports after rare earth rules dispute

Indonesia has resolved a regulatory dispute that had stalled mineral exports worth US$124 million, allowing shipments from West Kalimantan to resume. The Presidential Staff Office clarified that the ban on rare earth elements does not automatically apply when they are merely accompanying elements in primary mining products. The government is now seeking a legal opinion and preparing clearer regulations to prevent future bottlenecks while maintaining strict export controls.

IDX to Auction 11 Shares, Here Are the Purchase Requirements

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) plans to auction 11 of its own shares that have not been issued or have been bought back. The auction is scheduled for 1 September 2026, and interested securities firms must submit their applications by 20 August 2026.

140-Tonne Rubbish Pile Blocks Access for Primary School Students in Cengkareng

A massive 140-tonne rubbish pile in Kedaung Kali Angke, West Jakarta, has obstructed access for local primary school students. The West Jakarta Environmental Sub-agency has deployed 13 to 15 trucks, heavy machinery, and 25 personnel to clear the site, targeting completion within a single day. Officials emphasised the need for community waste sorting to prevent future build-ups, citing the Governor's recent instruction on waste management.

Profit in Indonesia, Tax Elsewhere?

The article examines the long-standing international tax paradox where multinational corporations generate substantial profits in developing nations like Indonesia but report them in low-tax jurisdictions. It highlights how mechanisms such as transfer pricing and royalty payments legally shift earnings away from the countries where real economic activity occurs. The piece frames the ongoing UN tax convention negotiations as a critical opportunity to reform global tax governance and ensure fairer revenue distribution for developing countries.

DPRD Sumut: Bobby's Nias Office Move Accelerates Development

The North Sumatra DPRD has praised Governor Bobby Nasution's decision to set up office in the Nias Islands, calling it a strategic move to accelerate development and lift the region out of underdevelopment. The provincial government has allocated nearly Rp500 billion for Nias in 2026, double the previous year's budget. Legislators are conducting direct inspections to ensure the funds are effectively used for infrastructure, health, and economic programmes.

Police to Question YouTuber Bigmo on 10 August Over Alleged Child Involvement in Vape Promotion

Jakarta police have scheduled an examination for YouTuber Muhammad Jannah, known as Bigmo, on 10 August 2026, following a report that he involved minors in a live-streamed vape liquid promotion. Authorities have already sought clarification from the complainant, the children's parents, and the vape company involved. The investigation is focusing on the alleged exploitation of children for promotional purposes and analysing related digital evidence.

Jakarta Health Agency Confirms No Health Workers Mocked BPJS Patients

The Jakarta Health Agency has stated that none of the health workers involved in mocking a deceased BPJS patient online are employed by the city's public health facilities. The case, which sparked public outrage after a patient died following an eight-hour wait for a room, is now under investigation by the Indonesian Health Council. The Health Minister has also condemned the lack of empathy shown by medical professionals on social media.

Pramono Threatens to Expose Illegal Waste Operators, Urges Hospitality Sector to Cut Ties

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has threatened to publicly name private waste operators who illegally dump rubbish, following an incident where a pile of waste blocked access to a school. He has instructed the hospitality sector, including hotels, restaurants, and cafés, to cease using these unlicensed services. The governor also stressed that waste sorting regulations apply to businesses as well as households.

State Secretary Reveals Prabowo Still in Discussions on BI Governor Candidate

President Prabowo Subianto has not yet submitted a name to the House of Representatives for the definitive governor of Bank Indonesia, according to State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi. The president is still holding discussions and seeking input from various parties before making a decision. Current acting governor Destry Damayanti is among the candidates being considered.

KJRI Kuching Strengthens Friendship Through Cultural Diplomacy

The Indonesian Consulate General in Kuching, Sarawak, hosted a cultural performance titled 'Malam Harmoni Kemerdekaan' to celebrate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The event featured traditional dances, fashion, and angklung music, aiming to strengthen people-to-people ties between Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei Darussalam. The Consul General emphasised the role of arts and culture as a bridge to enhance regional friendship and introduce Indonesia's cultural wealth to the world.