Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 9 August 2026

Showing 451-500 of 715 articles

Ministry of Immigration and Corrections Welcomes Independence Day with Fun Walk and Heroes' Cemetery Clean-Up

The Ministry of Immigration and Corrections (Kemenimipas) held a series of community activities in Tangerang, including a fun walk and cleaning of a heroes' cemetery, to commemorate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. Minister Agus Andrianto stated the events, which also featured social aid distribution and passport services, were in line with President Prabowo Subianto's directives. He emphasised that the nation's current struggle is focused on improving human resources, strengthening unity, and building a self-reliant economy.

LKBN ANTARA Committed to Strengthening Mandalika Promotion

Indonesia's national news agency LKBN ANTARA has pledged to bolster the promotion of the Mandalika Special Economic Zone to support sustainable sports tourism. The agency's director emphasised the need to highlight the area's broader advantages beyond just the racing circuit. The Mandalika MotoGP event has reportedly involved 3,000 local workers, demonstrating a positive economic impact on the community.

Indonesian military probes shooting at Highland Papua festival

The Indonesian military is investigating a shooting at a cultural festival in Highland Papua that left two civilians injured. Preliminary findings suggest the attack was carried out by an armed faction of the Kodap III Ndugama group, likely aiming to disrupt the event. The military has condemned the attack and pledged to prevent further disruptions to public security in the region.

Danantara Chief Reveals SOE Streamlining, 652 Companies to Be Eliminated

The Indonesian government is accelerating the transformation of state-owned enterprises (SOEs), with plans to reduce the total number of companies from over 900 to just 250. BP BUMN and Danantara Chief Dony Oskaria confirmed that 652 companies will be eliminated as part of the streamlining effort. The restructuring has already seen 274 entities consolidated, with major firms like Telkom and Pupuk Indonesia significantly reducing their subsidiaries.

Culture Ministry Preserves Lamin Mancong as a Monument of Cultural Harmony in East Kalimantan

The Ministry of Culture is intensifying efforts to protect Lamin Mancong, a traditional longhouse in West Kutai Regency, which was designated a National Cultural Heritage Building in 2024. The structure, built in 1920, showcases a unique architectural blend of Dayak traditions and Kutai Malay influences. Dedicated caretakers have been assigned to maintain the site and provide educational services to visitors, ensuring the heritage remains a living monument for future generations.

Company in the Shadow of Bankruptcy: A Test for Foreign Investment Interest

The bankruptcy ruling against PT Dua Kuda Indonesia, a subsidiary of China's Zanyu Technology Group, has raised serious concerns about legal certainty for foreign investors in Indonesia. Despite the company's healthy financial status and normal operations, the commercial court's decision has sent shockwaves through international markets, impacting the parent company's share price. The case highlights the potential misuse of bankruptcy laws and its damaging effect on Indonesia's investment climate.

Preserving Hope in a Marine Paradise: A BRI Mantri's Dedication to the Wakatobi Community

Wa Ode Sitti Rahmatiah Jufri, a BRI Mantri, faces perilous sea crossings to deliver financial services to remote villages in Wakatobi's Kaledupa Island. Her role is crucial for advancing financial literacy and inclusion in one of Indonesia's most isolated archipelagos. A harrowing journey through four-metre waves underscores the personal risks taken to ensure the local economy continues to function.

Mount Rinjani's forest fire contained after 30 hectares burned: Govt

A forest fire on Mount Rinjani that scorched an estimated 30 hectares of shrubs and vines was successfully contained by a joint team of officers, military, police, and residents. The rapid response, which began on Friday afternoon and involved drone monitoring and fire trucks, managed to extinguish active hotspots by early Saturday morning. Authorities continue mop-up operations and have urged local communities to remain vigilant against potential reignition.

Houthi Escalation Widens, Here's Analysis from Former Yemeni Ambassador

The Houthi militia's recent escalation in Yemen is no longer confined to a single military front, with attacks targeting government forces, a displacement camp in Ma'rib, and Saudi Arabian territory. Former Yemeni Ambassador Abdullah Abdul Karim Al-Da'is assesses that the pattern of attacks is linked to Iran's regional calculations amid heightened international focus on Gulf security. The strikes, which Yemen's Defence Ministry labelled as large-scale terrorist aggression, indicate objectives that go beyond short-term military gains.

Lampung Law Ministry Commits to Delivering Beneficial Legal Services

The Lampung Regional Office of the Ministry of Law has reaffirmed its commitment to providing tangible benefits to the public during the 81st Pengayoman Day celebrations. The office highlighted the importance of general legal administration and intellectual property services for ensuring legal certainty, particularly for business actors and MSMEs. Officials urged the community to use the occasion as a catalyst for improving service quality and legal awareness.

Sutrimo's Family Finally Reports to Police, Asks for Cause of Death to be Revealed

The family of Sutrimo, a resident of Banyumas, has formally reported his death to the police to seek legal certainty. They are not accusing any specific party but wish to clarify the cause of death amid circulating rumours. The family has stated they will cooperate fully, including with an exhumation or autopsy if required by investigators.

Pramono to Add Second Platform at JIS KRL Station in Near Future

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has announced plans to add a second platform at the KRL commuter line station serving Jakarta International Stadium (JIS) to improve connectivity. He also confirmed that visitors to JIS events can park at the nearby Ancol recreation area, paying only the parking fee rather than the Ancol entrance tariff. The initiative aims to ease access and encourage greater use of public transport and designated parking for stadium events.

Dynasty Capital and CFX Explore Development of Sharia-Compliant Crypto Ecosystem

Dynasty Capital and the OJK-licensed crypto exchange CFX have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore developing Indonesia's digital asset industry, including a Sharia-compliant crypto initiative. The partnership aims to build a more professional and managed crypto investment ecosystem, targeting the growing number of domestic investors. Dynasty Capital is preparing several managed products, including a Crypto Halal Fund, to cater to the world's largest Muslim-majority population.

Jakarta fire forces 1,000 civil servants to work remotely

A fire that damaged several floors of a Jakarta government building has prompted the city administration to implement remote working for around 1,000 civil servants. The blaze affected the Revenue Agency, Transportation Agency, and Human Resources Development Agency, with authorities deploying 40 fire trucks and 200 personnel to extinguish it. The work-from-home arrangement will remain in place until the building is declared safe for normal operations.

Soenda Ketjil Residency House in Singaraja Transformed into Heritage Eatery

A century-old former Dutch colonial residency in Singaraja, Bali, has been revitalised into a heritage restaurant called Warung Soenda Ketjil. The owners have preserved the building's original structure and furnishings, creating a public space that combines Nusantara cuisine with a journey through North Bali's history. The venue has attracted local visitors and foreign tourists, including Dutch nationals, and is also available for events such as photoshoots and weddings.

BYD Indonesia Builds New Energy Vehicle Ecosystem with Beyond Community

BYD Indonesia is strengthening its new energy vehicle ecosystem by partnering with the Beyond Community, its largest user group in the country. The community, which has grown organically since August 2024, now serves as a key partner for the principal in sharing user experiences and promoting new energy vehicle technology. The collaboration was marked by the launch of a dedicated mobile application for members, featuring an emergency SOS function, during a celebration at the GIIAS 2026 exhibition.

BYD Indonesia and Beyond Community Build Mobility Ecosystem Together

BYD Indonesia celebrated milestones for its M6 and Atto 1 models alongside the Beyond Community, the country's largest BYD user group, at GIIAS 2026. The event marked the launch of a dedicated mobile application for community members, featuring an emergency SOS function. The community, which began organically among early adopters, has grown to over 3,100 official members and now serves as a key partner for the principal in promoting new energy vehicle technology.

Understanding the Living Law Provisions in the National Criminal Code

The new Indonesian Criminal Code (KUHP Nasional) formally recognises 'living law' or customary norms as a source of criminal liability, expanding the principle of legality. While seen as a decolonisation of law, the provision raises concerns about legal certainty, potential conflicts with human rights, and the bureaucratic formalisation of organic customary practices. The success of this article hinges on the clarity of its implementing regulations and an inclusive public dialogue.

Indonesia, South Africa deepen cultural ties over Sheikh Yusuf

Indonesia and South Africa have agreed to strengthen cultural cooperation, focusing on the shared legacy of Sheikh Yusuf Al-Makassari ahead of his 400th birth anniversary in 2026. The partnership will include joint commemorations, research, museum collaboration, and the establishment of an Indonesian Cultural House in Cape Town. Both nations also plan to update a 2008 cultural memorandum of understanding to encompass heritage, creative industries, and youth exchanges.

Nurturing True Independence

An opinion piece argues that Indonesia's political independence remains incomplete without moral and spiritual liberation. It contends that societal issues like corruption and polarisation stem from a spiritual crisis, proposing that Islamic principles and Sufi practices can build the integrity needed for a just civilisation.

The Scholar Who Stood Before a Tyrant and Criticised Power

Tajuddin Abdul Wahhab bin Ali as-Subki, a 14th-century scholar under the Mamluk Sultanate, paid a heavy price for telling rulers that public wealth was not their personal property. His intellectual legacy includes sharp critiques of sultans who squandered state funds on poets and flatterers while the masses lived in poverty. He contrasted this with the austerity of Caliph Umar bin Khattab, urging rulers to return to the path of justice.

Why Mining Is No Longer the Main Pillar of Indonesia's Economic Growth

Indonesia's mining sector contracted by 1.64 percent in the second quarter of 2026, making it the only sector to shrink amid overall economic growth of 5.29 percent. The decline is attributed to new government production quotas under the 2026 RKAB policy, aimed at stabilising global commodity prices, which has led to operational cuts and layoffs. This downturn, which began in 2025, signals a fading of the sector's lustre and raises concerns about supply shortages and illegal mining.

30-Hectare Forest Fire in Mount Rinjani National Park Brought Under Control

A wildfire that scorched approximately 30 hectares within the Sembalun resort area of Mount Rinjani National Park has been successfully contained. The fire was first reported on Friday afternoon, and a joint team managed to bring it under control by early Sunday morning. Authorities continue to monitor the site to prevent any reignition of the flames.

Jakarta Prepares Cikini Building for Temporary Relocation of Civil Servants After Bapenda Fire

The Jakarta provincial government is preparing a building in the Cikini area to temporarily house civil servants affected by a fire at the Regional Revenue Agency (Bapenda) office. Governor Pramono Anung stated that the relocation is necessary to ensure government services continue uninterrupted while the main building is being handled. Approximately 1,000 civil servants will work from home or other locations until the move to the new site is completed.

Japan PM Takaichi Avoids Mentioning US in Hiroshima, Nagasaki Bombing Memorials

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi refrained from naming the United States as the perpetrator of the atomic bombings during memorial ceremonies in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Speaking at the 81st anniversary event, she reiterated Japan's commitment to the Three Non-Nuclear Principles and the goal of a world free of nuclear weapons. The omission mirrors a similar approach taken days earlier at the Hiroshima ceremony.

IRGC: Strait of Hormuz Now a 'Tool of Power and War'

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has declared the Strait of Hormuz a strategic weapon, insisting the vital waterway will remain closed until the United States meets Tehran's conditions. The demands include lifting sanctions, releasing frozen assets, ending military interventions across the Middle East, and paying war compensation. The ultimatum marks a significant escalation in rhetoric over control of the key global shipping route.

Pati Regency Government to Help Absorb Farmers' Salt Amid Production Surplus

The Pati Regency administration is committed to optimising the absorption of locally produced salt as the peak harvest season leads to a surplus and falling prices. The government plans to leverage existing industrial facilities, public warehouses, and cooperatives to support farmers. Farmers are also facing reduced productivity this season due to lingering ground moisture from a prolonged rainy season.

Colonial Policy in Implementing Fine Laws in Minangkabau

Following their victory in the Padri War, the Dutch colonial administration introduced the 1872 Colonial Police Act to control the non-European population in Minangkabau. The law imposed fines for a range of regulated behaviours, including unauthorised movement, adultery, and the sale of invincibility charms, with penalties scaled to Dutch political and economic interests. This legislation aimed to suppress resistance by restricting mobility, monitoring households, and undermining traditional matrilineal social structures.

Police to Exhume Body of Sutrimo, Investigate Identity of Kejagung Staff Febrio

The Indonesian National Police will exhume the body of Sutrimo, who died under suspicious circumstances in South Jakarta, to determine the cause of death. Authorities are also investigating the identity of Febrio, a staff member at the Attorney General's Office, who was reportedly present when Sutrimo's body was taken to a clinic. The Attorney General's Office has confirmed Febrio is an administrative staff member and former aide to a high-ranking official.

When Patients Wait, Empathy Must Not Be Lost

A viral case of a patient dying after an eight-hour wait for a hospital bed has ignited a national discussion on healthcare capacity and medical ethics in Indonesia. While hospitals face genuine challenges of overcrowding and limited resources, the public outcry intensified over perceived callous remarks by some health workers on social media. The incident underscores that beyond systemic constraints, maintaining empathy and professional ethics remains paramount in preserving public trust.

Jakota prepares backup traffic system after Bapenda building fire

The Jakarta provincial government is activating a backup traffic control system following a fire at the Regional Revenue Agency building that damaged the main command centre. Governor Pramono Anung said the incident has disrupted automated traffic light management and VVIP transport arrangements. Manual traffic control by field officers will be deployed at key intersections while repairs are expected to take up to one month.

Police to Exhume Sutrimo's Body to Uncover Cause of Death

Jakarta police have announced plans to exhume and autopsy the body of Sutrimo, the former household manager of ex-Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah, to determine the exact cause of his death. The family has stated they will cooperate fully with the investigation and are seeking legal certainty amid widespread public speculation. The case is under investigation by the South Jakarta Metro Police and the Polda Metro Jaya.

South Jakarta Administration Targets Completion of PHB Taman Alfa Indah Dredging by September

The South Jakarta Water Resources Sub-department is dredging the PHB channel in Taman Alfa Indah, Pesanggrahan, to prevent flooding. The project, which began in early April, is targeted for completion by the end of September 2026. The initiative aims to increase water flow capacity and reduce inundation during heavy rains.

US Economy vs Europe: Who Has Prevailed Over the Decade?

The economic trajectories of the United States and the European Union have diverged sharply over the past two decades. While the EU's GDP once stood at 131% of the US economy in 2008, a series of crises including the Great Recession, Brexit, and the war in Ukraine have reversed this position. By 2026, the EU economy is projected to be just 71% the size of its American counterpart.

Forest Fire in Mount Rinjani National Park Contained, 30 Hectares Affected

A forest and land fire in the Sembalun Resort area of Mount Rinjani National Park, West Nusa Tenggara, was successfully contained by the Ministry of Forestry and a joint task force. The fire, first reported on Friday afternoon, was brought under control by early Saturday morning after a coordinated effort involving 35 personnel. Authorities estimate approximately 30 hectares of shrubland and undergrowth were affected, with mopping-up operations continuing to prevent reignition.

Family Permits Police to Exhume and Autopsy Sutrimo's Body to Determine Cause of Death

The family of Sutrimo, a former household staff member of an ex-prosecutor, has consented to an exhumation and autopsy to clarify the cause of his death. They have filed an official report with the Banyumas Police to seek legal certainty amid rampant public speculation. Police are investigating the discovery of his body in South Jakarta and have confirmed an autopsy will proceed upon family approval.

Danantara's Income Surges 400 Percent, Prabowo Demands Continuous Audit

President Prabowo Subianto has called for the ongoing audit and verification of the Indonesia Investment Authority (Danantara) after receiving reports of a roughly 400 percent surge in income during its first year of operation. He stressed that the government must not be complacent and that the figures must be checked to ensure they reflect the real situation. The President noted that even a 200 or 300 percent increase would represent a significant leap for the newly operational institution.

Indonesia backs fairer global trade rules at BRICS meeting

Trade Minister Budi Santoso voiced Indonesia's support for a more inclusive and equitable multilateral trading system at a BRICS meeting in Jaipur. He emphasised the need for a strong, adaptive WTO and called for concrete BRICS cooperation to boost developing economies, including financing for MSMEs and digital transformation. The discussions focused on strengthening global trade rules, supply chain connectivity, and expanding digital commerce.

Indonesian Fleet Command Foils Smuggling of 1.3 Tonnes of Narcotics in Riau Islands Waters

The Indonesian Fleet Command (Koarmada RI) has thwarted an attempt to smuggle 1.3 tonnes of suspected ketamine through the waters off Tanjung Berakit, Riau Islands. The drugs, found aboard a Tanzanian-flagged vessel, have an estimated street value of up to Rp4.55 trillion. The successful operation is estimated to have prevented potential drug abuse by around 6.5 million people.

Thai Food Producers Scramble as Indonesia's Halal Rules Tighten

Thai food exporters are being urged to review their product certifications ahead of Indonesia's expanded halal requirements, which take full effect on 17 October 2026. The new rules, enforced by the Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH), distinguish between products requiring mandatory halal certification and those eligible for exemption under a Halal Positive List. The policy is expected to impact Thailand's significant food and agricultural exports to Indonesia, which were valued at over US$1.4 billion in 2025.

Govt encourages yacht tourism to strengthen Indonesia's marine tourism

The Indonesian government is promoting yacht tourism as a key pillar of quality marine tourism, highlighting the country's archipelagic advantage and rich marine biodiversity. Industry leaders emphasise that developing the sector requires collaboration between government, businesses, and communities to boost tourist arrivals and stimulate related industries such as shipping and MSMEs. The initiative is being showcased at the INSA Yacht Festival 2026 in Bali, supported by the Tourism Ministry to enhance Indonesia's position as a premier marine tourism destination.

Baznas and Coordinating Ministry Distribute Economic Empowerment Aid to Pesantren in Gresik

The National Zakat Agency (Baznas) and the Coordinating Ministry for Community Empowerment have channelled Rp871 million in aid to strengthen the economic independence of Islamic boarding schools and mosques in Gresik, East Java. The funding supports the ZMart Pesantren, Baznas Ultra Micro (BUMi) Mosque, and Santripreneur programmes. Officials emphasised that pesantren ecosystems are the most effective grassroots drivers for poverty alleviation and local economic empowerment.

DPR Expects New BI Governor to Be Skilled in Building Coordination with Stakeholders

Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) has outlined key expectations for the incoming Bank Indonesia (BI) governor, emphasising the need for a proven track record in monetary policy and the ability to communicate effectively amid global and domestic economic dynamics. The government is expected to propose a candidate to the DPR in the coming weeks to replace Perry Warjiyo. The new governor will also be required to coordinate closely with Financial System Stability Committee (KSSK) stakeholders while maintaining the central bank's independence.

AI-Powered Debt Collectors: The New Face of Credit Recovery

Artificial intelligence agents are increasingly being deployed to replace human debt collectors, handling millions of calls monthly. While offering efficiency, these AI systems face significant challenges with messy data, leading to errors such as pursuing already-settled debts or targeting the wrong individuals. The technology's lack of human flexibility and negotiation skills remains a major hurdle before it can be fully trusted.

BPK Reveals Government 5.0 Challenges Towards Indonesia Emas 2045, from AI to Cybersecurity

The Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) has highlighted that transforming governance through Government 5.0 and strengthening ESG principles are crucial for achieving the Indonesia Emas 2045 vision. Nyoman Adhi Suryadnyana, a BPK member, outlined key challenges including uneven digital transformation, fragmented government data, and a lack of AI talent. He stressed that a whole-of-government approach integrating all ministries and stakeholders is essential for sustainable development.

Indonesia's Tourism Sector Sees Positive Growth in First Half of 2026

Indonesia's tourism sector recorded positive growth across key indicators in the first half of 2026, with foreign tourist arrivals reaching 7.45 million and investment realisation surging 16.64 per cent to IDR 39.68 trillion. The government attributed the performance to adaptive strategies, including market diversification and enhanced promotion, which positioned Indonesia as having the second-highest growth in foreign tourist arrivals in Southeast Asia. The sector's expansion contributed significantly to national economic growth, driving job creation and regional development.

PKS Supports Prabowo Recruiting New Cabinet Members: They Don't Have to Be from Parties

The Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) has expressed support for President Prabowo Subianto's prerogative to reshuffle the cabinet, suggesting he prioritise professionals with integrity over party affiliates. PKS Election Winning Body head Mardani Ali Sera emphasised the need for bureaucratic reform and a merit-based system, citing declining public satisfaction surveys. The State Secretary has indicated that any potential reshuffle after 17 August would likely focus on filling vacant deputy minister positions.

Pezeshkian Says Iran Ready to Continue Peace Path if US Builds Trust

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated Iran is prepared to pursue a peace process if the United States establishes mutual trust. He emphasised that the current domestic solidarity makes it an opportune time for an agreement, based on a previously signed MoU. The path forward, however, will ultimately depend on the decision of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

Missile Stocks Dwindle to Alarming Levels, US Military Scrambles for Exit from Iran War

After six months of conflict with Iran, the United States military is grappling with severely depleted ammunition stocks and limited air power options. Senior military leaders, including Joint Chiefs Chairman General Dan Caine, are reportedly seeking an exit strategy, acknowledging that continued escalation may not achieve President Trump's stated political objectives. The dilemma centres on converting military superiority into a swift political victory while avoiding a wider confrontation.

KPK Flags Rp2.37 Trillion Regional Budget Leak, Highlights Three Corruption Vulnerabilities

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has identified potential losses of Rp2.37 trillion in regional budgets during the first half of 2026, pinpointing planning, budgeting, and procurement as the most vulnerable stages. The largest potential leakage, Rp1.58 trillion, was found in the budgeting phase, with the KPK emphasising that deviations from regulations signal corrupt intent. The commission is working with dozens of regional governments to implement preventive measures and strengthen oversight.