Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 7 August 2026

Showing 801-850 of 1,438 articles

Observer: Joint Trade Commission a Vital Instrument for RI-Thailand

An international relations observer has stated that the newly formed Indonesia-Thailand Joint Trade Commission must function as an execution instrument, not merely a ceremonial forum, to optimise bilateral trade. The commission is tasked with expanding market access and reducing non-tariff barriers to achieve a bilateral trade target of US$20 billion by 2030. The observer also urged Indonesia to leverage this momentum to boost exports of value-added products such as processed fisheries, automotive components, and pharmaceuticals.

Former Malaysian PM Ismail Sabri's Corruption Arraignment Postponed Due to Heart Treatment

The arraignment of former Malaysian Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob on corruption charges has been postponed to 27 August after he was hospitalised for a heart condition. The 66-year-old politician is currently receiving treatment at the National Heart Institute and is scheduled to undergo a pacemaker procedure. The court granted the delay following a request by his legal team, with the prosecution raising no objections.

Police Reveal Owner of Firearm Found in South Jakarta Private School Has Died

Police have disclosed that the owner of a firearm discovered among 995 airsoft guns in a South Jakarta private school has been deceased since 2020. The weapons were found in a room linked to a former foundation chairman amid an internal leadership dispute. The current foundation claims the firearms were stored without their knowledge, while the former chairman's legal team insists the weapons were licensed and related to a planned extracurricular activity.

UGM Academic Hospital Recommends Severe Sanctions for Nurse Who Mocked BPJS Patient

RSA UGM has recommended severe sanctions for a contract nurse who posted an unsympathetic comment on social media about a BPJS Kesehatan patient who later died. The nurse has been barred from practising pending a decision by the Indonesian National Nurses Association. The case has sparked a wider investigation by the Indonesian Health Council into ethical violations by at least ten healthcare workers.

Husein Sastranegara Airport to Resume Jet Flights on 14 August 2026

PT Angkasa Pura Indonesia (InJourney Airports) has secured approval from the Ministry of Transportation to recommence narrow-body jet operations at Bandung's Husein Sastranegara Airport starting 14 August 2026. The approval follows the operator's fulfilment of all operational, safety, and regulatory requirements. The first jet service will be a Denpasar–Bandung return route operated by Garuda Indonesia, with the airport unveiling upgraded facilities including new check-in counters, co-working spaces, and enhanced passenger amenities.

JKN Referral System Overhaul Could Slash Treatment Costs by 50%

Indonesia's national health insurance (JKN) is reforming its referral system to be based on healthcare facility competency rather than administrative tiers, a move expected to cut patient waiting times and treatment costs by up to 50%. The new system, set to go live in 2027, will allow direct referrals to specialist centres, eliminating multiple stages that currently extend patient journeys to over two weeks. Hospitals are simultaneously urged to adopt lean management practices to improve efficiency without compromising the quality or safety of patient care.

UGM Academic Hospital Nurse Suspended After Mocking Deceased BPJS Patient on Social Media

RSA UGM has temporarily suspended nurse Dika Purnomo Aji after he admitted to posting a mocking comment on social media about a deceased BPJS patient who had waited hours for a room. The hospital is coordinating with the national nurses association to impose a severe permanent sanction, barring him from practice in the interim. The case serves as a disciplinary lesson on social media ethics for healthcare workers.

Humanist Foundation and Digital Innovation Key to Quality Education

Indonesia's education system is shifting from rote memorisation to a 'Deep Learning' approach that integrates digital technology with humanist values. The new framework positions teachers as facilitators and role models, encouraging students to construct knowledge, apply it contextually, and reflect on their learning. This strategic transformation aims to produce graduates with strong character, critical thinking skills, and the creativity needed to face global challenges.

BGN Ensures Optimal Medical Services and Evaluation After Papua Free Meal Poisoning Incident

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has temporarily suspended a meal service unit in Papua following a suspected food poisoning incident that affected 219 beneficiaries of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. Deputy Head Trenggono stated that initial investigations suggest the 'tempe bacem' menu was cooked too early, leading to a decline in quality, though official results are pending. The agency is conducting a thorough evaluation of operational standards and supervision to prevent future occurrences while ensuring all affected patients receive adequate medical care.

Light-activated nanoparticles could fight brain cancer

Researchers have developed a dual-action nanoparticle platform that helps surgeons more precisely visualise and remove glioblastoma, the deadliest form of brain cancer, before destroying remaining cancer cells with light. The technology, tested successfully in mice, combines tumour imaging during surgery with targeted phototherapy afterwards. Further research is needed to confirm its effectiveness in the human brain.

Indonesia expands Clean Irrigation Movement to safeguard food security

The Indonesian government is intensifying its Clean Irrigation Movement to secure water quality and supply for farmland, with the Public Works Ministry revitalising primary canals in Banten. Officials stress that maintaining and rehabilitating irrigation networks is critical to preventing drought-related crop failure and supporting President Prabowo Subianto’s food self-sufficiency agenda. The ministry is also deploying rapid response measures, including water pumps, to mitigate dry season risks across the country.

Indonesia Expands Tax, Wage Incentives to Curb Layoffs

The Indonesian government is rolling out tax breaks and subsidised internship wages to help companies retain workers and avoid layoffs. Measures include government-borne income tax for eligible employees earning up to Rp 10 million per month and state-funded salaries for interns over six months. The policy aims to stabilise the labour market and sustain household purchasing power amid growing pressure on several industries.

Buleleng Tightens Budget After IDR 25 Billion Cut in Central Transfer Funds

The Buleleng Regency Government is being forced to reprioritise its spending after the central government slashed its regional transfer funds (TKD) by approximately IDR 25.17 billion for 2026. Bupati Nyoman Sutjidra stated that the 1.63% reduction will significantly impact the region's fiscal capacity, requiring strict efficiency measures. While essential services like education, health, and social security remain protected, infrastructure projects are expected to suffer the most due to the combined effect of budget cuts and rising material costs.

BI NTT Strengthens Rupiah Sovereignty Through Garuda Sakti Cross Border Fest 2026

Bank Indonesia's East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) representative office is hosting the Garuda Sakti Cross Border Fest 2026 to reinforce the sovereignty of the Rupiah in border areas. The event, held in Belu Regency, combines public education on the currency and digital payments with support for local MSMEs. It aims to foster national identity and economic growth through literacy programmes, a bazaar, and the inauguration of a dedicated Rupiah literacy corner.

Police: Owner of Firearm Found at South Jakarta School Foundation Deceased

Jakarta police have revealed that the registered owner of a Franchi SPAS-15 shotgun discovered at a private school foundation in Pondok Pinang died in 2020. Authorities are investigating how the weapon, along with nearly a thousand airsoft guns and narcotics, ended up on the premises despite the owner's death.

Indonesia and Sweden Sign Agreement to Support Smooth Halal Product Trade

Indonesia's Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) and Sweden's Scandinavian Halal Certification AB (SHC) have signed a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) to facilitate bilateral trade in halal products. The agreement establishes a framework for the mutual recognition of halal certificates, requiring SHC to comply with Indonesian halal standards, including the Halal Product Assurance System (SJPH) and labelling regulations. Officials from both nations highlighted that the deal strengthens economic ties and promotes halal certification as a global standard for transparency, traceability, and quality assurance.

UBSI Students Strike Gold at 2026 National Innovation Week with SIPILAH

A team from Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) won a gold medal at the 2026 National Innovation Week for creating SIPILAH, an AI-powered smart bin. The device uses offline Edge-AI to automatically sort household waste into organic, recyclable, and residual categories. The innovation is praised for its affordability and alignment with Sustainable Development Goals, with plans for future mass production.

Central Bengkulu Regency Temporarily Halts Free School Uniform Programme

The Central Bengkulu Regency Government has suspended its free school uniform and equipment programme for 2026 due to fiscal constraints. Bupati Rachmat Riyanto stated the priority programme, which benefited 2,445 students in 2025, may resume in 2027 if the regional budget allows. The administration aims to prevent students from dropping out due to the inability to afford school supplies.

August Reshuffle Issue: State Secretary Says Priority Is Filling Vacant Deputy Minister Posts

State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has addressed speculation about a cabinet reshuffle in August, stating that no such plan currently exists. He noted that if any changes were to occur, the priority would be filling the vacant deputy minister positions. Hadi also confirmed that President Prabowo Subianto has not yet sent letters to the DPR regarding the replacement of the National Police Chief or the definitive candidate for Bank Indonesia Governor.

Two Volcanoes in East Nusa Tenggara Erupt Nearly Simultaneously

Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki and Mount Ile Lewotolok in East Nusa Tenggara erupted within two minutes of each other on Friday afternoon. Authorities reported ash columns reaching up to 800 metres and have maintained alert levels, warning residents and visitors to avoid designated exclusion zones.

Indonesia steps up packaging recycling to advance green industry

Indonesia is intensifying its packaging recycling efforts as part of a broader push to build a green and globally competitive industrial sector. Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita emphasised that the transition involves boosting production efficiency and strengthening the circular economy, particularly in the food and beverage sector. With a PET bottle recycling rate already at 71 percent, the government is launching programmes to assess industry practices and develop a coordinated action plan.

President Prabowo and Cabinet Ministers Attend Book Launch for Bahlil Lahadalia

President Prabowo Subianto and a host of senior cabinet ministers and business leaders attended the launch of a book chronicling the life of senior official Bahlil Lahadalia in Jakarta. The event, titled '10 Karya Nyata untuk Negeri: Setengah Abad Bahlil Lahadalia', drew key figures including Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan and House Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad. The high-profile attendance underscores Bahlil's significant political and economic influence within the current administration.

Navy Chief: Scorpene Submarine Construction Progress at 20.5 Percent

The construction of Indonesia's first Scorpene-class submarine by PT PAL Indonesia has reached 20.5 percent completion, according to Navy Chief of Staff Admiral Muhammad Ali. The project, marked by a first steel cutting ceremony in Surabaya, is scheduled for delivery within 96 months. The submarine represents the latest generation of the Scorpene class and is being built with technical support from France's Naval Group.

President Prabowo Tests Durability of BRIN's Biomass Roof Tiles by Throwing and Stomping on Them

President Prabowo Subianto personally tested the strength of innovative roof tiles developed by the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) at the Presidential Palace. The tiles, made from biomass waste including coconut fibre, are designed to be lightweight, durable, and environmentally friendly. After receiving assurances from researchers, the President threw and stamped on the tiles, which remained intact.

KKP Asks TEP to Map Blue Economy Potential in Coastal Areas

Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has tasked the Patriot Expedition Team (TEP) with mapping blue economy potential in coastal regions. The initiative aims to inform policy development and boost the welfare of coastal communities. The government is also targeting the construction of 1,269 'Red and White Fishermen's Villages' by 2026 to serve as economic growth centres.

Police Deploy K9 Units Roby and Dasa in Search for Mutilation Victim's Remains in Depok

Indonesian National Police have deployed two specialist K9 units, Roby and Dasa, to search for the missing body parts of a mutilation victim in Depok. K9 Roby, a general criminal tracker, previously helped identify the suspect's hideout, while K9 Dasa, a cadaver dog, is now scouring Kali Licin river for the victim's discarded feet. The search continues despite the suspect's arrest, as police aim to recover all remains.

KNEKS Urges Government to Consistently Implement Sharia Economic Roadmap

The National Committee for Sharia Economy and Finance (KNEKS) has called on the government to maintain consistency in executing its sharia economic development roadmap. KNEKS warns that shifting programme priorities away from established planning documents could hinder the sector's growth targets. The committee also highlighted the need for greater regional budget allocation to support halal certification infrastructure.

Hana Bank posts Rp360.76 billion profit in first half of 2026, up 9.21 percent

Hana Bank reported a net profit of Rp360.76 billion for the first half of 2026, marking a 9.21 percent year-on-year increase. The growth was driven by an 8.81 percent rise in lending, with the bank maintaining strong asset quality and a robust capital adequacy ratio. The bank also highlighted its ongoing digital innovation and corporate social responsibility initiatives.

Dudung Reveals Mineral Export Hurdles Resolved, Rp2.2 Trillion in Commodities Flow Back to Global Markets

The Indonesian government has resolved regulatory obstacles that had stalled mineral exports, allowing shipments worth approximately Rp2.2 trillion to resume. The breakthrough came after cross-ministerial coordination clarified rules regarding rare earth elements, which had previously been misinterpreted. Nearly 400,000 tonnes of commodities, primarily alumina hydroxide and oxide from West Kalimantan, are now being shipped to international markets.

Kepri Provincial Government and Komdigi Agree to Eliminate Blankspots in Border Areas

The Kepulauan Riau Provincial Government and the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs have agreed on a strategic plan to eliminate telecommunications blankspots in border regions using satellite technology and the 700MHz frequency. The initiative includes building six Base Transceiver Stations across Lingga, Natuna, and Karimun regencies to boost public services and economic equality. The Deputy Governor highlighted that 30 blankspots and 177 weak signal areas currently hamper education, healthcare, and economic activities in the archipelago's outermost islands.

US and ASEAN chair call for unconditional release of Myanmar's Aung San Suu Kyi

The United States and the ASEAN chair have jointly called for the immediate and unconditional release of Myanmar's detained former leader Aung San Suu Kyi and other political prisoners. The statements follow a recent visit to Suu Kyi by the International Committee of the Red Cross, which both parties welcomed as a potential step toward regular humanitarian access. The US also urged Myanmar's military to engage in dialogue to end the ongoing conflict, while ASEAN reaffirmed the importance of its Five-Point Consensus peace plan and the role of its special envoy.

Pegadaian and BSI Manage 150 Tonnes of Gold in Bullion Business

Indonesia's bullion business ecosystem has surpassed 150 tonnes of gold under management in the first half of 2026, encompassing deposit, safekeeping, financing, and trading services. The Financial Services Authority (OJK) confirmed the milestone, which involves PT Bank Syariah Indonesia and PT Pegadaian as the two licensed institutions. The regulator projects continued growth driven by rising public interest and the strengthening of the national bullion ecosystem.

Pelita 16 urges establishment of human trafficking complaint posts

Pelita 16 Chairman Ahmad Doli Kurnia Tanjung has called for the creation of complaint posts to tackle human trafficking, stressing the need for collaboration between the state and society. The proposed posts would provide victims and their families with access to legal aid, counselling, and coordination with law enforcement. The initiative follows recent suspected trafficking cases involving Indonesian citizens in Libya and Cambodia.

2027 State Budget Deficit Set to Widen Beyond 1.8% to Accommodate Additional Spending

The Indonesian government has indicated that the 2027 State Budget (APBN) deficit will likely exceed the previously agreed lower limit of 1.8% of GDP. The increase is attributed to additional spending proposals and new programmes that emerged during discussions between ministries and the House of Representatives (DPR). The final deficit figure will be announced by President Prabowo Subianto on 14 August 2026.

VinFast Indonesia and Danamon Strengthen Electric Vehicle Ecosystem in Indonesia

VinFast Indonesia has partnered with Bank Danamon to provide dealer financing solutions, aiming to accelerate the expansion of its distribution network and electric vehicle ecosystem in the country. The collaboration will offer competitive working capital and inventory financing to VinFast's dealer network, supported by Danamon's extensive reach and the backing of MUFG. This move is part of VinFast's long-term strategy to integrate its operations in Indonesia, including charging infrastructure and battery subscription programmes.

UBSI Students Win Silver with Flood Early Warning Innovation at 2026 National Innovation Week

Students from Bina Sarana Informatika University (UBSI) secured a silver medal at the 2026 National Innovation Week for developing AquaWarn, an IoT-based flood monitoring and early warning system. The system provides real-time alerts via WhatsApp and has received intellectual property protection from the Ministry of Law. The team plans to enhance the innovation with solar power and artificial intelligence to strengthen technology-based disaster mitigation across Indonesia.

Police Confirm School Activities Normal After Discovery of 995 Weapons in South Jakarta

Police have assured that teaching activities at a private school in Pondok Pinang, South Jakarta, are continuing as normal following the discovery of 995 airsoft guns and firearms in a storage room. The weapons were found alongside narcotics and pornographic CDs in a room belonging to the former chairman of the school's foundation. An internal foundation dispute is believed to have led to the discovery, with the former chairman's legal representative claiming the airsoft guns were legally owned and intended for a planned extracurricular shooting programme that never materialised.

Customs Foils Smuggling of 10 kg of Cannabis from Thailand at Ngurah Rai

Customs and police at Bali's Ngurah Rai Airport intercepted over 10 kilograms of cannabis smuggled by two Indian nationals arriving from Thailand. The drugs were concealed as food souvenirs in their luggage. The operation is estimated to have prevented potential economic losses of Rp3.3 billion and saved over 2,000 people from substance abuse.

Ministry of Industry: Three RI industrial transformations draw attention at BRICS forum

Indonesia's Ministry of Industry has highlighted three national industrial transformation initiatives at the 4th BRICS Partnership on New Industrial Revolution meeting in New Delhi. The initiatives focus on strengthening small and medium industries through the IKM 4.0 programme, accelerating the transition to green industry, and reinforcing data-based industrial supply chains. The forum is seen as a crucial platform for aligning Indonesia's industrial strategy with the collective capabilities of BRICS nations.

Ngurah Rai Customs Foils Smuggling of 10 Kilograms of Cannabis from Thailand

Customs and police officers at Bali's I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport have intercepted over 10 kilograms of cannabis smuggled by two Indian nationals arriving from Thailand. The drugs, disguised as food souvenirs, were detected through X-ray analysis and risk profiling. Authorities estimate the seizure has saved over 2,000 lives and prevented potential economic losses of approximately Rp3.3 billion.

Sahroni Demands Root-Cause Probe into Discovery of 995 Weapons at South Jakarta Private School

House Commission III Deputy Chairman Ahmad Sahroni has called for a thorough investigation into the discovery of nearly 1,000 weapons, narcotics, and pornographic materials at a private school in Kebayoran Lama, South Jakarta. The NasDem politician described the cache, found in the former foundation chairman's room, as highly abnormal and potentially linked to criminal or terrorist networks. He warned that the case could pose a threat to national security if not fully uncovered.

Traffic Diversion on North Ring Road for Toll Road Construction

Construction to remove a median on the North Ring Road in Sleman, Yogyakarta, is underway to support the Solo-Yogyakarta-NYIA Kulon Progo Toll Road project. The work is scheduled to take place nightly from 10 PM to 4 AM between 6 and 25 August 2026. Police have implemented traffic diversions and urged motorists to exercise caution and use alternative routes.

From mineral downstreaming to talent downstreaming

An opinion piece argues that Indonesia's most critical investment must shift from physical infrastructure to human capital development to leverage its demographic bonus. The author, speaking at an ITB orientation, stresses that higher education must cultivate adaptive, distinctive, and inclusive leaders capable of navigating exponential technological change. The piece warns that without this focus, the demographic dividend could become a burden.

Integrated National Schools to Become Regional Centres of Educational Quality, Says Deputy Minister

Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Fajar Riza Ul Haq stated that Integrated National Schools (SNT) are designed to be regional hubs for quality education, aiming to produce a generation of future leaders who are not only academically excellent but also possess strong character and social awareness. The government is focusing on providing top-tier infrastructure and teachers for these schools. The curriculum will adopt a 'deep learning' approach to encourage critical thinking and problem-solving skills among students.

Piscok Pocin Shop Speaks Out on Status of Saepul, Depok Mutilation Perpetrator

A chocolate banana snack shop in Depok has clarified the employment status of Saepul, the suspect in the mutilation of Kunaefi. The shop confirmed Saepul worked as an outlet guard for only one month before resigning via WhatsApp on the day of the alleged murder. The business stated it had no knowledge of his activities outside work.

BNN and PT Timah Intensify Anti-Narcotics Movement in Mining and Coastal Areas

Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) is collaborating with state-owned tin miner PT Timah to expand the Gerakan Nasional Anti Narkotika (Granat) programme. The initiative aims to strengthen drug abuse prevention among employees and communities within the company's extensive operational areas, including mining and coastal regions. The partnership will focus on education, early detection through regular urine testing, and stakeholder engagement to foster drug-free environments.

West Serang Industrial Estate to Be Reorganised Due to Suboptimal Planning

Banten Governor Andra Soni has stated that the current layout of the West Serang industrial area is suboptimal, leading to prolonged social conflicts. A comprehensive reorganisation will be undertaken, aligning development plans across regency, provincial, and central government levels. The initiative aims to improve infrastructure, public services, and ensure the area's significant economic potential benefits local communities.

Bus Company Clarifies Viral Video of Jokowi 'Saya Akan Lawan' Horn

Indonesian bus company PO MTrans has denied that one of its vehicles used a horn modified to sound like former President Joko Widodo saying 'Saya akan lawan' (I will fight). The company stated that an internal investigation confirmed the horn on its Blitar-Jakarta bus was standard and the viral video was likely edited. Management also urged the public to be more discerning about digital content and reminded bus enthusiasts to maintain a positive atmosphere in the public transport sector.

Government Resolves Mineral Export Hurdles, Unblocks Shipments Worth USD 124 Million

The Indonesian government has resolved regulatory bottlenecks that stalled mineral exports, enabling nearly 400,000 tonnes of products worth approximately USD 124 million to resume shipment. The Presidential Staff Office (KSP) coordinated with ministries to clarify rules on rare earth elements, allowing PT Sucofindo to issue pending surveyor reports. The resolution ensures continued exports while maintaining strict oversight, with a long-term focus on strengthening domestic mineral governance and downstream processing.

Pertamina NRE strengthens commitment to sustainable energy transition

Pertamina New & Renewable Energy (Pertamina NRE) has reaffirmed its commitment to Indonesia's sustainable energy transition, citing improved stakeholder relations and a higher satisfaction index. The company's Stakeholder Satisfaction Index rose to 4.30 out of 5, reflecting stronger trust and collaboration. Pertamina NRE views this as crucial capital for accelerating the national energy transition.