Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 7 August 2026

Showing 1,301-1,350 of 1,438 articles

FIFA Game Publisher EA Acquired by Saudi Arabia for Nearly IDR 1,000 Trillion

Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) has acquired video game giant Electronic Arts (EA) in a deal worth US$55 billion, taking the company private. The acquisition, which also involved Silver Lake and Jared Kushner's Affinity Partners, marks a strategic push by the kingdom into the entertainment and sports sectors. Following the takeover, EA has announced a leadership reshuffle, appointing Cam Weber as head of studios and David Tinson as COO.

Garment Worker Layoffs in Cimahi: Industry Minister Explains

Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita has addressed the layoff of 178 workers at PT Namnam Fashion Industries in Cimahi, attributing the redundancies to declining export demand and necessary business adjustments. The company deactivated two of its three production facilities due to a continuous decline in income. Despite this, the Minister highlighted that the broader manufacturing sector recorded a 0.09 per cent growth in employment, contributing 13.53 per cent to national labour absorption.

Heatwaves linked to children's mental health decline

A new Australian-led review has found that rising temperatures and heatwaves are associated with worsening mental health in children and adolescents. The study, published in the International Journal of Epidemiology, indicates that the risk of adverse mental health impacts increases by 25 per cent during heatwaves. Researchers are calling for mental health to be integrated into climate adaptation efforts, including practical measures like cooler classrooms and shaded outdoor areas.

Stakeholder Synergy Key to Maritime Transport Safety

Indonesian legislator Bambang Haryo Soekartono calls for a comprehensive strengthening of the national maritime safety system following the KMP Mutiara Sentosa II fire. He emphasised the need for synergy among regulators, operators, port authorities, and search and rescue agencies, while highlighting deficiencies in port screening facilities. The lawmaker also urged the government to bolster the capabilities of Basarnas and the coast guard to improve emergency response times.

Creative Economy Ministry and ABPEDNAS Strengthen Synergy to Develop Village Creative Potential

The Ministry of Creative Economy is partnering with the National Association of Village Consultative Bodies (ABPEDNAS) to boost village-based creative economies. The collaboration will focus on mapping creative potential and strengthening institutional ecosystems through the Creative Village Programme. The initiative aims to preserve culture, enhance community capacity, and create new economic opportunities in rural areas.

AGO's Team 9 to Question Former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah as Money Laundering Suspect Today

The Attorney General's Office's Team 9 is scheduled to question former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) Febrie Adriansyah today as a suspect in a money laundering case. Adriansyah faces multiple charges, including corruption and money laundering linked to the ASABRI scandal and a separate case involving the discovery of 74 kg of gold and hundreds of billions of rupiah. The case was initially handled by the National Police before being transferred to the AGO.

Four Thousand Violations Committed by Israel Since Gaza Ceasefire, 300 Children Killed

The Government Media Office in Gaza reports that Israeli forces have committed 4,091 violations of the ceasefire agreement during its first 300 days, resulting in 1,254 Palestinian deaths. The office also highlighted a severe restriction on humanitarian aid, with only 35 per cent of scheduled trucks permitted entry, and condemned what it termed a systematic policy of targeting Palestinians. Mediators are being urged to pressure Israel to fully comply with its obligations as military operations reportedly continue.

Water that tests leadership

The appointment of new directors for Surabaya's municipal water company, PAM Surya Sembada, marks a critical juncture for public service delivery. The incoming leadership faces mounting challenges including urban growth, climate change, and rising public expectations for reliable water access. Success will be measured not merely by profitability but by the expansion of quality clean water services to more residents.

Coordinating Minister AHY: Unqualified Opinion is a moral standard for realising state financial governance

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono has stated that an Unqualified Opinion (WTP) from the state auditor is a moral standard, not just an administrative achievement. He emphasised that the opinion should drive continuous improvement in transparent and accountable state financial management. AHY also stressed the importance of ensuring every rupiah of the state budget is used effectively and has a tangible impact on economic growth and public welfare.

Inheritance Dispute: Farmer in South Tapanuli Fatally Stabbed by Younger Brother

A 58-year-old farmer in South Tapanuli, North Sumatra, was fatally stabbed by his younger brother during a dispute over inheritance. Police arrested the 53-year-old suspect shortly after the incident on Wednesday evening. The case highlights a tragic escalation of a family conflict over property rights.

Checking Progress of Kampung Haji in Saudi, Rosan Reveals Danantara Offered Investment in Madinah Airport

Rosan Perkasa Roeslani, CEO of Danantara and Investment Minister, updated President Prabowo on the Kampung Haji project in Saudi Arabia, which is now in the architect selection phase. During his visit, Saudi officials also offered Danantara an ownership stake in Madinah's airport. Rosan separately reported on efforts to streamline bureaucracy within state-owned enterprises to improve efficiency.

AGO Questions Don Ritto and Eight Private Parties in Febrie Money Laundering Case

The Attorney General's Office has interrogated suspect Don Ritto and eight private sector witnesses in connection with a money laundering case involving former senior prosecutor Febrie Adriansyah. The case centres on the discovery of 74 kilograms of gold and Rp543 billion in cash at a Sentul residence. The investigation aims to complete case files and trace assets suspected to be proceeds of crime.

Regional Civil Servants and PPPKs Breathe Easy, Salaries to Be Transferred by Purbaya Next Week

The central government has allocated an additional Rp 20.5 trillion to assist 497 regional administrations struggling to pay salaries following budget cuts. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa confirmed the funds, sourced from the State General Treasury, will be disbursed next week. The move aims to prevent layoffs of regional civil servants and contract-based government employees.

Cambodia issues sea travel warning as it faces impact of three cyclones

Cambodia's Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology has urged maritime travellers to exercise extreme caution from 6 to 15 August due to the indirect effects of three active cyclones. The combined weather systems are expected to bring heavy rainfall and strong winds, particularly affecting coastal provinces. Authorities have warned of thunderstorms, high winds, and rough seas, advising the public to remain vigilant to prevent accidents.

Central Java Weather Forecast for 7 August 2026: Generally Sunny and Cloudy

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) forecasts predominantly sunny to cloudy weather across Central Java on Friday, 7 August 2026. While no rain is expected, the agency has issued warnings for potential forest and land fires due to the dry season peak, as well as high waves reaching up to 2.5 metres in both northern and southern waters. Residents are urged to remain vigilant against fire risks and monitor official maritime weather updates.

Official: PLN Electricity Tariffs per kWh Remain Unchanged for July-September 2026

The Indonesian government has decided to keep electricity tariffs for all PLN customer groups unchanged for the third quarter of 2026. The decision, announced by Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia, aims to maintain public purchasing power and support national economic stability. The freeze applies to both 13 non-subsidised and 24 subsidised customer categories despite fluctuations in macroeconomic parameters.

Private Employee in Cimahi Arrested for AI-Manipulated Image of President Prabowo

A private sector worker in Cimahi, West Java, has been arrested for allegedly using artificial intelligence to create a manipulated image of President Prabowo Subianto accompanied by a negative narrative. The suspect, identified as FG, was apprehended in Surabaya after police traced a social media post that depicted the president and claimed the country would descend into chaos under his leadership. Authorities seized electronic devices including a mobile phone and a computer CPU as evidence.

Board of Peace's First Gaza Project is a Military Base, Not Civilian Housing

The first construction contract under the US-backed Board of Peace in Gaza is for a military base to house Moroccan troops, rather than civilian infrastructure. The project, awarded to a US firm, highlights a significant scaling back of the ambitious 'New Gaza' redevelopment plan previously promoted by Donald Trump and Jared Kushner. This development comes amid ongoing Israeli military operations and a severe humanitarian crisis, with 80% of buildings in Gaza damaged or destroyed.

Pertamina Patra Niaga RU Cilacap Opens Tender for Column Assy 11C-1 Replacement

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga Refinery Unit IV Cilacap has announced an open tender for the replacement of Column Assy 11C-1 at its Fuel Oil Complex I. The tender, open until 24 August 2026, aims to maintain operational reliability and ensure production continuity. Interested suppliers can register online, with the company emphasising a transparent and accountable procurement process.

West Bandung Female Civil Servant Goes Viral for TikTok Live During Work Hours, Mentions Project Fee

A female civil servant in West Bandung Regency has gone viral after conducting a TikTok live stream during working hours, during which she discussed a one percent fee related to a project. The West Bandung Regional Secretary, Ade Zakir Hasyim, stated that the individual will be summoned for clarification regarding the broadcast and the conversation heard in the public domain. The local government has reiterated that civil servants are prohibited from using social media for personal content or live streaming during work hours.

KKI Identifies 10 Health Workers in BPJS Patient Insult Case, Burnout Deemed No Excuse

The Indonesian Health Council (KKI) has identified ten health workers suspected of insulting a BPJS patient on social media, with the number likely to rise. The council emphasised that professional burnout cannot justify such ethical violations, while also addressing systemic issues like long waiting times for national health insurance patients. Investigations are ongoing, with the Indonesian Doctors Association (IDI) expecting the ethics panel to conclude its probe within a week.

Trump Fumes Over Leak of US Weapons Stockpile Depletion Amid Iran Tensions

President Donald Trump has expressed fury over leaked reports suggesting dwindling US ammunition reserves, arguing the disclosures weaken America's strategic position against Iran. The reports indicate a significant depletion of advanced interceptors, raising concerns among Gulf allies reliant on US defence systems. Trump has threatened long prison sentences for the leakers and activated the Defense Production Act to boost manufacturing.

Foreign Investors Flock to Energy Stocks Amid Global Sentiment Shift

Foreign investors aggressively accumulated Indonesian energy and petrochemical shares on Wednesday, led by PT Dian Swastatika Sentosa, despite an overall net sell position in the broader market. The rotation into energy was driven by easing geopolitical tensions and positive domestic economic growth of 5.29% in the second quarter of 2026. However, the overall market still recorded a net foreign sell of Rp273.5 billion, primarily from the divestment of large-cap banking and mining stocks.

Government Still Keeps Size of 2027 State Budget Deficit Under Wraps

The Indonesian government is withholding the deficit target for the 2027 State Budget (RAPBN) until President Prabowo Subianto's address to Parliament on 14 August. Officials confirmed the budget posture is being finalised amid high global economic uncertainty, while expressing optimism over improving domestic growth. The economy expanded by 5.29 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026, driven by stronger investment and household consumption.

300-Million-Year-Old Wood Reveals Earth's Long Geological History

A fossilised piece of wood no larger than a palm has provided scientists with a detailed chronicle of geological events spanning hundreds of millions of years. Researchers from the University of Münster analysed the wood, found in Germany's Kyffhäuser Mountains, to trace four distinct stages of quartz mineralisation. The findings offer a new tool for reconstructing the evolution of continents by examining petrified wood found in rock formations worldwide.

Lampung-1 Hyperspectral Satellite Launched from China, BRIN Assures Data Security

The Lampung-1 hyperspectral satellite, designed to support data-driven development through artificial intelligence, has been launched from China. Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has assured that data security is guaranteed, with the agency holding full authority over data storage. The launch marks a new chapter in international cooperation between Lampung Province and Shandong Province.

Mystery of Nearly 1,000 Weapons and Drugs Found at South Jakarta Private School

A private school in Pondok Pinang, South Jakarta, has reported the discovery of almost 1,000 firearms and airguns, along with narcotics and pornographic CDs, in a locked room belonging to a former foundation chairman. The school's legal representative stated the items were found during a clean-up in July 2026 and urged police to investigate the matter thoroughly. Authorities are also being asked to open a sealed 'bunker'-like room on the premises, as the school supports a full investigation into the illegal cache.

Agus Fatoni: Alumni of Governance Colleges Must Support Government Programmes

Agus Fatoni, Chairman of the National Alumni Association for Governance Colleges (IKAPTK), has called on all alumni to support government priority programmes and strengthen their role as a unifying force for the nation. Speaking in Sorong, the Director General of Regional Finance at the Ministry of Home Affairs emphasised the professional responsibility of these civil servants to serve the public. He also highlighted the need to establish a definitive IKAPTK board in Southwest Papua to consolidate the organisation and boost social activities.

Israeli Citizen Indicted for Killing Palestinian Activist from Oscar-Winning Film 'No Other Land'

An Israeli citizen has been indicted for reckless manslaughter in the killing of Palestinian activist Odeh Hathaleen, who contributed to the Oscar-winning documentary 'No Other Land'. The indictment marks the first time in nearly three years that an Israeli has been charged with killing a Palestinian in the West Bank, according to human rights group B'Tselem. The case has drawn international attention, with activists expressing mixed feelings about the charge being less than premeditated murder.

Armed Robbers Attack Bank Customer in Bekasi, Steal IDR 30 Million

A private sector employee was attacked by two armed men in Cibitung, Bekasi, shortly after withdrawing IDR 30 million from a bank. The victim sustained a slash wound to his left hand before the robbers fled with his bag. Police have processed the crime scene and are currently hunting for the suspects.

Tasikmalaya Hospital Employee Resigns After Insulting BPJS Patient

A contract employee at RSUD Dr Soekardjo in Tasikmalaya has resigned following public outrage over her insulting remarks towards a BPJS patient who later died. The hospital director confirmed the resignation letter has been forwarded to the regional civil service agency for processing. The incident has reignited scrutiny over the treatment of national health insurance patients in Indonesian public hospitals.

Pelindo Responds to IPO Plans, Says No Official Decision Yet

State-owned port operator Pelindo has stated that no official decision has been made regarding a potential initial public offering (IPO), despite being named as a candidate by Danantara. The company emphasised its current focus remains on strengthening its business fundamentals and operational performance. The Indonesia Stock Exchange has welcomed the broader plan, noting that the listing of strong state-owned enterprises would expand investment options.

Renovation of Watu Klotok Temple Begins, Dewa Baruna Statue Preserved

The Klungkung Regency has commenced a Rp 13.4 billion renovation project for the Watu Klotok Temple in Bali. The project will redevelop almost the entire temple complex, but the iconic Dewa Baruna statue will be retained due to its good condition and spiritual significance. The local government hopes the improvements will enhance both religious activities and religious tourism in the area.

Hasan Nasbi Discusses Simulacra, Algorithms, and Indonesian Statecraft

Presidential Special Adviser on Communication Hasan Nasbi addressed the challenges of public perception in a democracy, acknowledging flaws in the Free Nutritious Meals programme while highlighting its reach to 62 million Indonesians. He emphasised the government's efforts to communicate clearly to avoid misperception in what he described as a world of simulacra and algorithms.

10 Health Workers Who Mocked BPJS Patients on KKI's Radar: Dentists and Nurses

The Indonesian Health Council (KKI) is investigating ten health workers, including doctors, dentists, and nurses, for allegedly mocking BPJS Kesehatan patients on social media. The case centres on ethical violations in social media use rather than direct patient mistreatment. The Indonesian Medical Association (IDI) noted that some of the doctors involved have publicly apologised, while the KKI also highlighted that long BPJS patient queues are often due to capacity issues at hospitals.

Taiwan President Evacuated in Armoured Vehicle During War Drills

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te was evacuated in an armoured personnel carrier during the annual Han Kuang military exercises, which simulate a potential invasion by China. The drills, which began on Wednesday, are designed to test the island's command structure and ensure government continuity in the event of a conflict. China claims Taiwan as its own territory and has not ruled out the use of force to bring it under its control.

Fire in South Jakarta School Book Storage Leads to Student Evacuation, Governor Ensures Learning Continues

A fire broke out in a book storage room at SDN 04 Srengseng Sawah in South Jakarta, prompting the evacuation of students. The blaze, suspected to be caused by an electrical short circuit, was extinguished within an hour with no casualties reported. Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has confirmed that teaching activities will resume as normal, while a hybrid learning option is being prepared for students who may be traumatised.

BRIN Develops Sensor to Prevent Food Spoilage in Free Meal Programme Omprengs

The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has developed a multi-sensor AI device called Food Guard to detect spoilage gases in containers used for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The agency is building innovation across the entire MBG supply chain, from raw materials to AI-based monitoring. BRIN also presented an electric fishing boat that can reduce operational energy costs by up to 70% compared to fuel-powered vessels.

Mobile Samsat Services Available at 14 Locations Across Greater Jakarta on Friday

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police have announced that mobile Samsat units will be operating at 14 locations across Jakarta, Depok, Tangerang, and Bekasi on Friday to facilitate annual vehicle tax payments. The service, which runs at varying times depending on the location, is intended to make it easier for residents to fulfil their tax obligations. Officials remind the public that the mobile units only process annual vehicle tax payments, while five-yearly payments and licence plate replacements must be completed at a main Samsat office.

Central Government Prepares Rp 20.5 Trillion to Cover Civil Servant Salaries for 79 Regions

The Indonesian central government has allocated Rp 20.5 trillion to bolster the finances of 490 regional administrations, ensuring civil servant and contract worker salaries are paid on time. This intervention responds to fiscal distress in 79 local governments that have exhausted their own revenue sources and budget efficiencies. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated the funds would be disbursed as soon as next week, following President Prabowo's directive to address the regions' payroll difficulties.

Profile of the Expected New Bank Indonesia Governor to Succeed Perry Warjiyo

As President Prabowo Subianto prepares to nominate a new Bank Indonesia Governor, a key lawmaker has outlined the desired profile for the role. The successor to Perry Warjiyo is expected to uphold the central bank's mandate of maintaining financial system stability while actively supporting economic growth and job creation. The appointment is anticipated to be finalised this week, with the official nomination letter to be submitted to the House of Representatives by 14 August 2026.

Trump Issues New Rule to Restrict Birth Tourism and Birthright Citizenship

President Donald Trump has signed a new executive order aimed at tightening restrictions on birth tourism and narrowing the interpretation of birthright citizenship. The move follows a recent Supreme Court decision that upheld the 14th Amendment's guarantee of citizenship to anyone born on US soil, which had blocked a previous, broader attempt by Trump to end the practice. The new order specifically targets children born to individuals classified as 'enemy aliens' and those lobbying for foreign governments.

UGM Academic Hospital Investigates Nurse Over Viral Post Mocking BPJS Patient

RSA UGM has launched an ethics investigation into a nurse who allegedly mocked a BPJS patient's complaint about an eight-hour wait. The nurse, identified as Dika Purnomo Aji, faces potential disciplinary sanctions ranging from a warning to more severe penalties. Hospital management confirmed the nurse has been employed for approximately one year and the case has been handed over to the legal and ethics committee.

KPK Confirms Investigation into BI and OJK CSR Corruption is Ongoing

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed that its investigation into alleged corruption involving the social responsibility funds of Bank Indonesia (BI) and the Financial Services Authority (OJK) is progressing. The anti-graft body has named two members of the House of Representatives as suspects and is focusing on asset recovery to reimburse state losses. The case involves suspected irregularities in the use of funds between 2020 and 2023.

Coal Prices Edge Higher on Tightening Supply, Good News for Indonesian Producers

Thermal coal prices saw a slight recovery, snapping a recent losing streak, driven by rising oil prices and tightening supply at Chinese ports. The drawdown in Chinese port stocks has made seaborne coal from Indonesia and Australia more competitive, although cautious buying from end-users is capping further gains. Meanwhile, India reported ample domestic coal inventories sufficient for 62 days of power generation.

Malang Health Official Suspended After Mocking Deceased BPJS Patient

A doctor at Pakisaji Community Health Centre in Malang has been suspended following an internal investigation into her mocking comments on a social media post by a deceased BPJS patient. The patient, Yurizal Tri Chaerawan, had complained about an eight-hour wait for a hospital room before passing away. The Malang District Health Office and the local parliament have condemned the doctor's actions, calling them a 'slap in the face' for health services.

The Technology Used Worldwide That Is Actually Subsidised by the US

The Global Positioning System (GPS), used daily by billions worldwide, is funded by American taxpayers at a cost of approximately US$2 billion annually. Originally developed for military purposes, the US government provides the civilian signal for free, though it was intentionally degraded until a policy change in 2000. While other global navigation systems exist, the US is likely to continue funding GPS due to its critical role in military, security, and aviation operations.

Meta Ordered to Pay Additional Rp9 Trillion Fine Over Child Safety Hazards on Social Media

A New Mexico judge has ordered Meta to pay an additional US$567 million in fines, ruling that the company's platforms pose a significant danger to children. The judge likened the psychological harm and sexual exploitation risks to 'pollution' from a factory, marking the largest legal penalty Meta has faced over child safety. This ruling adds to a previous $375 million sanction, with the funds directed toward mitigating future harm.

Foreign Investors Signal Rotation into State-Owned Banks Amid Market Sell-Off

Despite a net foreign sell-off of Rp273.5 billion in the Indonesian stock market, overseas investors are rotating funds into state-owned banks. Shares of BRI, BNI, and Mandiri recorded significant net buys, while Bank Central Asia faced the heaviest selling pressure. The shift suggests a move away from defensive stocks towards Himbara banks.

Indonesia's Textile and Garment Industry Grows 6.36% in Q2 2026, Driven by Rp 2.7 Trillion Investment

Indonesia's textile and garment sector expanded by 6.36% year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026, outpacing the national economic growth rate. The surge was fuelled by approximately Rp 2.7 trillion in investments from six companies, which are projected to create nearly 10,000 new jobs. This growth strengthens the country's export expectations and highlights the sector's robust resilience within the regional supply chain.