Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 7 August 2026

Showing 1,101-1,150 of 1,438 articles

Telkom to Cut 34 Business Entities, Danantara Boss Reveals

State-owned telecommunications giant Telkom Indonesia is set to streamline its operations by eliminating 34 business entities as part of a strategic holding reorganisation targeted for completion by 2027. The initiative, discussed with Danantara's COO Dony Oskaria, aims to create a leaner, more efficient, and competitive organisation. The transformation also focuses on strengthening the leadership pipeline to ensure the company can adapt to the rapidly evolving digital industry.

Jakarta Governor Backs Police Probe into Weapons and Drugs Found at Private School

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has urged law enforcement to fully investigate the discovery of nearly 1,000 weapons, narcotics, and adult films at a private school in South Jakarta. The governor condemned the incident as a bad example for the education sector, despite the foundation having already dismissed those involved. Police have confirmed they are investigating the findings and have secured the evidence at Polda Metro Jaya.

Perbakin Director Claims 995 Weapons in South Jakarta School Were for Extracurricular Activities

A director of a shooting association has claimed that 995 weapons found at a private school in South Jakarta were legally owned airsoft guns intended for extracurricular shooting and archery. The weapons, stored since 2021, were reportedly planned for use in national and regional competitions. The plan was abandoned following the death of a general involved.

President Prabowo Receives TNI Commander and Full Military Leadership

President Prabowo Subianto met with the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) leadership to review progress on key infrastructure programmes, including the construction of 2,500 village bridges and nearly 3,000 clean water points nationwide. The TNI also reported on rural electrification projects and plans for a nationwide social service drive to mark the 81st Independence Day. The President directed the military to deliver a special contribution to the public during the upcoming independence celebrations.

Wi-Fi Technician in Bogor Nearly Attacked by Mob Over Alleged Verbal Harassment of Minor

A Wi-Fi technician in Bogor, West Java, was nearly attacked by a mob after being accused of verbally harassing a young girl. The incident occurred when the technician allegedly told a child to 'take off your clothes' in exchange for money. Local authorities intervened to prevent violence, but no police report has been filed by the victim's family.

Metro Jaya Police Arrest Two Couriers with 3.4 Kg of Cannabis, One Aged 15

The Metro Jaya Police narcotics division has intercepted a cannabis shipment from North Sumatra, arresting two couriers at a bus park in Tangerang. One of the suspects is a 15-year-old minor, highlighting the involvement of underage individuals in drug trafficking networks. Authorities seized 3.4 kilograms of cannabis and are continuing their investigation.

Unisa Yogyakarta Opens Animal House Laboratory to Support Drug Candidate Research

Universitas 'Aisyiyah (Unisa) Yogyakarta has inaugurated a new Animal House Laboratory to facilitate research involving test animals, particularly for developing drug candidates. The facility, part of the university's integrated laboratory unit, will allow researchers to observe the effects of substances on animals such as mice, rats, and rabbits before proceeding to further analysis. The university is also collaborating with the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) to expand the scope and output of its research.

East Jakarta City Government Promotes Spatial Planning to Create an Orderly City

The East Jakarta City Government is intensifying public education on spatial planning regulations to ensure orderly and sustainable urban development. Officials emphasised the importance of community understanding of building permits and city plans to prevent violations. The initiative aims to support the capital's transformation into a comfortable and well-organised global city.

Tanjung Priok's Terminal 3 Export Container Scanner Ready to Strengthen Customs Services

A new export container scanning facility at IPC Terminal Petikemas, Terminal 3 of Tanjung Priok Port, has been declared ready for operation after meeting all technical, administrative, and safety requirements. The facility, the tenth and final scanner built at the port, is expected to enhance modern, efficient, and integrated customs supervision and service. Officials anticipate it will accelerate the flow of goods, reduce queues, and serve as a model for other Indonesian ports.

Prabowo Orders Locally Made Rubber Shoes from BRIN, Price Unexpectedly Low

President Prabowo Subianto has placed an order for school shoes made from locally sourced rubber, an innovation by the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) priced below Rp80,000. The order was made during a meeting with over 150 researchers at the Presidential Palace, symbolising his support for domestic research commercialisation. The event also showcased other strategic innovations, including nuclear energy technology and food security systems.

PBB: Election Law revision momentum for a better electoral system

The Crescent Star Party (PBB) has urged that the revision of Indonesia's Election Law be used to create a fairer and more democratic system that respects every citizen's vote. Acting Chairman Yuri Kemal Fadlullah highlighted the issue of wasted legitimate votes due to the parliamentary threshold, proposing a mechanism for post-election political cooperation. The party insists the revision process must involve all stakeholders, including non-parliamentary parties, to strengthen the quality of Indonesian democracy.

SSRN Investigation: Authors Had No Involvement, Says Ministry

Indonesia's Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology has revealed that individuals listed as authors on a paper mentioning President Prabowo on the SSRN platform were unaware of its existence. An investigation found the lead author, with the initials DD, acted without consent and is not a professor or affiliated with any university. The ministry also warned the public that SSRN is merely a preprint repository and has no connection to official Nobel Prize nominations.

What Does Iran's Bill on Restricting Shipping in the Strait of Hormuz Contain?

Iran's parliament is deliberating a draft law to tighten control over shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf, including a ban on vessels linked to the United States, Israel, and other nations deemed hostile. The proposed legislation also mandates heavy fines for violations and requires government-armed forces coordination to monitor maritime traffic. The move has already contributed to a rise in global oil prices amid heightened geopolitical tensions.

995 Firearms Found in South Jakarta Private School, Police Urged to Investigate Perpetrator Network

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called for a thorough investigation after 995 firearms, narcotics, and pornographic materials were discovered at a private school in South Jakarta. The lawmaker stressed that the sheer volume of weapons indicates a serious breach of procedure and poses a threat to public safety and national security. Authorities are being urged to trace the origins of the weapons and drugs, and to investigate the school's management for potential involvement.

Not the US, These Are the 15 Governments with the Largest Spending in the World

A new IMF dataset reveals that Kiribati tops the global list for government spending as a percentage of GDP at 98.08%, while Indonesia ranks near the bottom at 139th out of 151 countries with a ratio of just 16.84%. The data highlights a stark fiscal divide, with small Pacific island nations and European welfare states dominating the top ranks, whereas many developing economies allocate a much smaller share of their national output to public expenditure.

BI: Foreign exchange reserves stable at 145.3 billion US dollars at end of July

Indonesia's foreign exchange reserves remained relatively stable at 145.3 billion US dollars at the end of July 2026, according to Bank Indonesia. The slight decline from June was attributed to tax and service receipts and a global bond issuance, offset by external debt payments and rupiah stabilisation measures. The central bank confirmed the reserves are sufficient to cover 5.5 months of imports, well above international adequacy standards.

Police Officer Ipda MA Detained After Fatal Collision Kills Toddler in Bone

A police officer in Bone Regency, South Sulawesi, has been detained following a traffic collision that resulted in the death of a four-year-old child. The incident occurred when the officer's car struck a stationary motorcycle at a red light. Authorities are investigating the exact cause of the crash, including a possible brake system failure.

Mosque Caretaker in Purwakarta Hacked to Death by Neighbour; Samurai Sword and Sickle Seized

A 65-year-old mosque caretaker in Purwakarta, West Java, was brutally murdered by his neighbour while preparing to sound the call to prayer. Police confirmed the victim sustained severe, wide-open wounds from repeated slashes using a samurai sword and a sickle. The suspect was arrested at his home shortly after the attack without resistance.

Boy in Bone Mosque Kicked by Man, Suffers Head Injury Requiring Stitches; Mother Reports to Police

An 8-year-old boy in Bone, South Sulawesi, required stitches to his head after allegedly being kicked by a man at a mosque. The incident, which occurred on 5 August, was reportedly triggered by a misunderstanding involving other children. The victim's mother has filed a police report, and authorities are investigating the case.

Ministry of Tourism: Nature, Culture, and Coffee in Jayawijaya to Attract More Visitors

The Ministry of Tourism has identified Jayawijaya Regency in Papua Pegunungan as a prime destination combining nature, culture, and agro-tourism. Deputy Minister Ni Luh Enik Ermawati highlighted the region's potential during her first working visit to Wamena, citing the upcoming 34th Baliem Valley Cultural Festival. The event will integrate cultural attractions with a Wamena Coffee Festival and Noken Street Fashion to boost visitor numbers and the local economy.

BRIN Develops ANG Technology to Replace LPG, Indonesia Could Save IDR 26 Trillion

Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is developing Absorbed Natural Gas (ANG) technology as a substitute for LPG, potentially saving the country up to IDR 26 trillion annually in energy subsidies. The technology, which uses Metal Organic Framework materials to store gas at lower pressures, was presented to President Prabowo Subianto. BRIN is currently testing the system in the hotel, restaurant, and catering sector, with wider implementation targeted for 2027.

Deputy Minister Reveals Urgency of AI Governance Amid Increasingly Dynamic Developments

Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Nezar Patria has stressed the critical need for proper governance to keep pace with the rapidly evolving capabilities of artificial intelligence. He warned that the growing gap between technological advancement and regulatory frameworks could lead to ethical and accountability crises. The government is preparing a national AI roadmap and ethical guidelines to ensure innovation remains human-centred and safe.

AGO Transfers Six Petral Corruption Suspects to Central Jakarta Prosecutors

The Attorney General's Office has handed over six suspects and evidence in the Pertamina Energy Services (Petral) corruption case to the Central Jakarta District Prosecutor's Office. The case involves alleged corrupt practices in crude oil and refinery product management between 2008 and 2015, which reportedly caused financial losses to the state-owned energy firm. The suspects, including former Pertamina officials, are accused of leaking internal information to private parties to rig tenders.

Health Minister to Check Employment Status of Doctors and Health Workers Insulting BPJS Patients

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has expressed dismay over medical professionals posting unsympathetic comments about BPJS Kesehatan patients on social media. He stated that the employment status of those involved, whether civil servants or students, will be investigated. The Indonesian Health Council (KKI) has already identified 10 individuals and is conducting an ethics investigation into the matter.

Former Foundation Chairman's Legal Team Denies Ownership of Narcotics and Pornographic CDs Found at School

The legal representative for a former foundation chairman has denied his client's ownership of narcotics and pornographic CDs discovered at a private school in South Jakarta. The lawyer confirmed that 995 airsoft guns found at the same location belong to his client and are legally permitted for a shooting extracurricular activity. South Jakarta Police are currently investigating the discovery of the weapons, which also included firearms and ammunition.

Kanadevia Inova Secures Concession for Its First Waste-to-Energy Plant in Africa

Kanadevia Inova has signed a 33.5-year concession agreement for a major waste-to-energy project in Casablanca, Morocco, marking its first such facility in Africa. The project, developed with Nareva and ITOCHU Corporation, will process 1.5 million tonnes of waste annually and generate approximately 126 MWe of electricity. The facility aims to address environmental challenges by reducing methane emissions and includes provisions for future carbon capture technology.

The Whoosh Debt Saga and How Purbaya Plans to Settle It

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has announced the government will take over the debt of the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Rail (Whoosh) by mid-September 2026. The debt, previously a significant burden on state railway operator PT KAI, will be managed by a Special Mission Vehicle under the Ministry of Finance to avoid straining the state budget. The move will also transfer the 60 percent stake held by the Indonesian consortium to the ministry's control.

Support Strengthens for Interim Chief Destry Damayanti to Lead Bank Indonesia as Finance Minister Dismisses Restructuring Rumors

Markets are increasingly backing interim governor Destry Damayanti to become the next Bank Indonesia chief following Perry Warjiyo's unexpected resignation, with President Prabowo Subianto expected to formalise a nomination soon. Damayanti's extensive experience in macroeconomics and financial markets is seen as crucial for reassuring foreign investors and maintaining stability amid global turbulence. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has firmly dismissed speculation about placing the central bank under direct ministerial oversight, emphasising the importance of policy synergy over structural changes.

Indonesia in Talks with China, Russia for Kalimantan Rail

Indonesia is courting Chinese and Russian investment to build the Trans-Kalimantan railway, a project ordered by President Prabowo Subianto to open up the resource-rich island which currently lacks any operational rail network. Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi confirmed that discussions are underway and that foreign investors are currently evaluating the financials before submitting formal proposals. A separate Trans-Sumatra rail project is also in the pipeline, with the government indicating that the pace of development will depend on investor readiness.

Pradi Supriatna Visits Arjasari to Inspect Village Cooperative Ready to Serve the Community

West Java legislator Pradi Supriatna visited the Arjasari Red and White Village Cooperative (KDMP) to assess its readiness to deliver economic services. He emphasised that professionally managed cooperatives can strengthen the grassroots economy by improving access to capital, marketing, and affordable goods. The visit also gathered community aspirations to ensure the cooperative becomes a sustainable pillar of local economic development.

Evident Institute Highlights Coordinated Amplification Pattern of 'Grey August' Issue on Social Media

The Evident Institute has identified a non-organic pattern in the rapid spread of the 'Agustus Kelabu' (Grey August) issue on social media, suggesting coordinated amplification rather than natural public discourse. Their analysis recorded 154 conversations generating 1.4 million interactions from just 130 accounts, with negative sentiment dominating 64.3% of the discussion. The institute also noted a broader trend of rising disinformation, slander, and hate speech since April 2026, warning that such a heated digital environment makes sensitive issues easier to manipulate and viral.

House of Representatives Urges Authorities to Thoroughly Investigate Discovery of Hundreds of Firearms at School

A member of the Indonesian House of Representatives has called for a comprehensive investigation into the discovery of 995 firearms, narcotics, and pornographic materials at a private school in South Jakarta. The lawmaker stressed that the possession of such a large cache of weapons by civilians is a serious matter threatening national security and public safety. Authorities are being urged to trace the origins of the weapons and drugs, and to identify all parties responsible for storing them on the school premises.

Pig Roast Stall in Palu Protested by Residents, 6 Conditions Set to Continue Operating

A dispute over a pig roast stall in Palu, Central Sulawesi, has been resolved through mediation led by the city government. Residents had protested the stall's conspicuous location on a main road, clarifying their objection was not to the business itself but to its prominent public display in a predominantly Muslim area. The mediation resulted in six conditions the owner must meet to continue trading, including obtaining local consent and removing pig imagery from signage.

School Activities in South Jakarta Normal After Discovery of Hundreds of Weapons

Teaching and learning activities at a private school in Pondok Pinang, South Jakarta, have returned to normal following the discovery of nearly a thousand weapons in a room allegedly used by a former foundation chairman. The school's legal representative stated the weapons were secured by police after hours, causing no disruption to students. Authorities are now being urged to open a nearby bunker on the premises amid concerns it may also contain arms.

East Jakarta Government Harvests 10 Tonnes of Rice to Strengthen Food Security

The East Jakarta city administration has harvested an estimated 10 tonnes of rice from a 2.5-hectare urban farming site in Cakung. The initiative aims to bolster food security and encourage productive use of idle land in the capital. The harvest also included 2.5 tonnes of corn for animal feed, demonstrating the viability of urban agriculture.

Indonesia Turns to China, Russia for Trans-Kalimantan Railway

Indonesia is courting investment from China and Russia to build the Trans-Kalimantan railway from scratch, following President Prabowo's directive to accelerate major rail projects. The Transportation Minister confirmed that while domestic operator KAI is focused on expanding the Trans-Sumatra network, foreign investors have shown particular interest in the Kalimantan route. The government is currently evaluating proposals, with the timeline dependent on commercial viability assessments by the interested parties.

DPR's Legislation Body Drafts Bill on Book System, Highlights Publisher Closures

The House of Representatives' Legislation Body (Baleg) is drafting a new Bill on the National Book System to address a fundamental crisis in Indonesia's literary ecosystem. The initiative follows the closure of major bookstores like Gunung Agung and numerous regional publishers, which lawmakers see as a symptom of deeper structural problems. Key issues include the disparity between subsidised textbooks and market-dependent general books, high production costs, and inadequate library funding.

Police Continue Search for Mutilation Victim's Leg in Depok River on Second Day

Police resumed their search of the Kali Licin river in Depok for the leg of a 51-year-old mutilation victim. The search, now in its second day, involves sniffer dogs and is hampered by strong currents and the week-long delay since the body part was discarded. The suspect reportedly confessed to disposing of the leg at a bridge in the Pancoran Mas area.

DPR Deputy Speaker Urges Lombok Migrant Workers to Use Official Channels

Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Sari Yuliati, has called on prospective migrant workers in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, to use formal procedures when seeking employment abroad. She highlighted that Indonesia's demographic bonus presents a strategic opportunity to fill global labour shortages, but warned that non-procedural departures lead to exploitation and legal problems. The government is intensifying education programmes to ensure migrant workers are protected and competitive internationally.

Two Cimahi Residents Face Four Years in Prison for Inciting Hatred Against Prabowo with Iran Nuclear Narrative

Two private sector employees from Cimahi, West Java, have been arrested and charged with incitement over social media posts targeting President Prabowo Subianto. The suspects allegedly used a Threads account to spread a false narrative that the Iranian Embassy protested Prabowo's remarks on Iran's nuclear programme, including comments encouraging action against the state palace. Police stated the pair, who face up to four years in prison, claimed their motive was merely to boost their account's engagement and follower count.

KSP Ready to Shepherd Completion of Pancasila Ideology Development Bill

The Presidential Staff Office (KSP) has pledged full support for the acceleration of the Pancasila Ideology Development Bill, aiming to strengthen the legal standing of the BPIP. KSP Chief Dudung Abdurachman emphasised the need to instil Pancasila values within law enforcement to prevent power from overriding morality. The bill is currently under discussion in the House of Representatives.

Strategic Philanthropy Steps to Address Economic Challenges

Indonesia's socio-economic landscape in mid-2026 faces mounting pressures, including a weakening rupiah, rising fuel prices, and threats of extreme drought. The article argues that the philanthropic sector must move beyond temporary charity to become transformative by integrating aid with sustainable economic empowerment. It outlines five strategic steps for philanthropy, from fulfilling basic needs to creating a conducive environment, emphasising the necessity of multi-stakeholder partnerships.

Malaysia Aviation Group rolls out stricter drug testing after pilot arrested

Malaysia Aviation Group has mandated compulsory drug screening for all its pilots after a Malaysia Airlines pilot was arrested in Jakarta for allegedly trafficking 26kg of MDMA. The pilot, who also tested positive for cocaine and methamphetamine, was detained upon arrival from Kuala Lumpur, prompting the airline to tighten its safety protocols. The incident highlights the severe legal risks of drug trafficking in Indonesia, which enforces strict narcotics laws including the death penalty.

Prosecutor's Office Absent, Roy Suryo's Fourth Pretrial Hearing Postponed to 14 August

The South Jakarta District Court postponed the fourth pretrial hearing filed by Roy Suryo after the High Prosecutor's Office (Kejati) failed to appear. The hearing, which focuses on a travel ban imposed on the suspect in a fake diploma case involving former President Joko Widodo, has been rescheduled for 14 August 2026. This delay comes just a day after the court rejected Suryo's third pretrial motion for compensation over his arrest, citing a procedural flaw for not including the Minister of Finance as a party.

ETF Tokenisation Eases Retail Investor Access to US Stock Markets

Blockchain technology is enabling Indonesian retail investors to access major US stock indices like the S&P 500 and Nasdaq with smaller capital outlays through tokenised exchange-traded funds (ETFs). The market capitalisation of tokenised ETFs has surged nearly 400 percent, reaching USD 150 million by June 2026. These instruments, operating on networks such as Ethereum or Solana, can utilise smart contracts to integrate KYC and AML processes.

Singapore authorities unable to conclude if any offence committed amid Indonesia baby trafficking case

Singaporean authorities have stated they are currently unable to determine if any offences were committed locally in connection with an Indonesian baby trafficking syndicate that sold at least 12 infants to agents in the city-state. The Indonesian ringleader admitted to receiving up to S$21,600 per child, with syndicate members using forged documents to facilitate the adoptions. Singapore's ministries have pledged to work with Indonesian officials to assess the best interests of the children involved and will take firm action if local laws were broken.

Abdul El-Sayed Could Become First Muslim US Senator

Abdul El-Sayed, a progressive Democrat and son of Egyptian immigrants, has won a closely contested primary in Michigan, defeating a moderate rival heavily backed by party leadership and pro-Israel funding. He will now face Republican Mike Rogers in the November midterm elections, a race that could see him become the first Muslim senator in US history. His campaign, which focused on universal healthcare and curbing corporate political influence, represents a significant test for the left wing of the Democratic Party.

Venture Capital Remains Cautious in Boosting Investments

Indonesia's venture capital industry continues to exercise caution in increasing investments despite the global artificial intelligence boom. The Financial Services Authority (OJK) notes that the 'tech winter' phenomenon, marked by a significant decline in investment and business activity, still overshadows the sector. The regulator indicates that venture capital firms have yet to aggressively penetrate the technology sector as they navigate ongoing market challenges.

Husein Sastranegara Airport Prepares for 14 August Operations

State-owned airport operator PT Angkasa Pura Indonesia is carrying out final preparations at Bandung's Husein Sastranegara Airport ahead of its scheduled reopening to regular commercial medium-body jet flights on 14 August 2026. The preparations include cleaning passenger waiting areas, baggage claim floors, and testing self-service check-in machines. The airport's reopening is expected to restore full commercial flight connectivity to the West Java capital.

Pertamina Boosts Student Energy Literacy Through 2026 Youth Program

State-owned energy firm Pertamina has launched its 2026 Youth Program, selecting 50 students from over 1,600 applicants to deepen their understanding of the energy industry and sustainable development. The initiative aims to equip young people with knowledge about energy transition and national energy resilience. Participants will learn about Pertamina's dual growth strategy and its community programmes, including the development of self-sufficient energy villages.