Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 9 August 2026

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Indonesia closes all access to Mount Bromo as wildfire expands

Indonesian authorities have shut down Mount Bromo National Park in East Java to all tourist activities after a wildfire expanded to 176 hectares within the caldera. The closure, effective from Saturday evening for an indefinite period, is a safety measure as water-bombing helicopters and drones are deployed to combat the blaze. The fire has grown significantly since Thursday, though no casualties have been reported and the cause remains undetermined.

Himel Presents Modern Living Vision Through Global 'Dream Home' Campaign

Electrical solutions company Himel has launched its global 'Dream Home' campaign, shifting focus from individual products to integrated systems that enhance safety, comfort, and future-readiness in modern homes. The campaign showcases a range of interconnected technologies, including EV chargers and sustainable wiring devices, aimed at supporting contemporary and eco-conscious lifestyles. With a presence in over 60 countries, the firm is positioning its portfolio as a means to improve quality of life through reliable and adaptable electrical infrastructure.

Streamlining of Transport SOEs Urged to Improve Public Services

The transformation of Indonesia's state-owned transport enterprises must go beyond structural simplification to deliver more reliable public services and reduce logistics costs. Observers argue that the consolidation of strategic SOEs, such as airport and port operators, should translate corporate efficiency into tangible benefits for the public. The ongoing restructuring, coordinated by Danantara, aims to enhance governance, digitalisation, and service quality across key transport sectors.

Village Fund Slashed by Rp 558 Million, Klungkung Residents Chip In to Repair Collapsed Road

Residents of Pesinggahan Village in Klungkung, Bali, have taken it upon themselves to repair a collapsed road after their village fund was cut by nearly 60 per cent. The road, which was destroyed by heavy rain, is the sole access for 21 families who have been isolated for two weeks. The village head stated the community had no choice but to seek corporate social responsibility donations and work together manually due to the severe budget shortfall.

Demolition of one footbridge on Rasuna Said targeted for completion by October

The Jakarta provincial government aims to complete the demolition of one of the old footbridges on Jalan HR Rasuna Said by October 2026. The structure, known as the 'Love-Hate Relationship' bridge, is being removed due to accessibility issues for people with disabilities. The process requires administrative asset clearance and a public auction before physical dismantling can begin.

Indonesia and Brazil Explore PTA to Strengthen Latin American Market Access

Indonesia and Brazil are exploring a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) as a pragmatic first step to boost bilateral trade, bypassing stalled negotiations for a broader Mercosur deal. The proposal was discussed during a meeting in Jaipur, India, where both ministers highlighted the potential for the agreement to serve as a gateway for Indonesian products into Latin America and Brazilian goods into Asia. The move comes as Indonesia seeks to diversify its export markets and strengthen economic ties with the BRICS bloc.

Ministry of Higher Education Spurs Universities to Strengthen Innovation Culture

Indonesia's Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology is urging universities to move beyond administrative mindsets and foster a culture of innovation. Deputy Minister Fauzan stressed that higher education institutions must prepare students for the workforce and respond to real societal needs. He called for greater recognition of student achievements and the courage to break free from restrictive procedures to drive progress.

Pramono Launches Special Transjakarta Route for Car Free Day, Connecting Senayan to Ancol

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has inaugurated a new Transjakarta shuttle service specifically for Car Free Day, linking Bundaran Senayan to HBKB Ancol. The 34.9-kilometre route features 18 stops and offers free entry to the Ancol recreational area for bus passengers. A promotional fare of Rp 1 was applied on the launch day, with the standard fare set to return to Rp 3,500 thereafter.

Eightco Reports Holdings of Approximately US$378 Million, Including OpenAI, Beast Industries, Over 16,000 ETH, and 302 Million WLD Tokens

Eightco Holdings Inc. has disclosed a total holding of approximately US$378 million as of 5 August 2026, comprising significant indirect stakes in OpenAI and Beast Industries, alongside substantial digital asset positions. The portfolio includes 16,278 Ethereum and nearly 302 million Worldcoin (WLD) tokens, representing the largest publicly disclosed institutional holding of WLD. The company is positioning itself at the intersection of artificial intelligence, digital identity, and the creator economy.

Video: Attracting Foreign Investment Amidst Turmoil, DPR Supports Formation of PFII

Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) is backing the establishment of a Pusat Finansial Internasional Indonesia (PFII) to attract foreign investment during global economic uncertainty. The DPR also emphasised the need to accelerate social assistance disbursement to maintain public purchasing power and strengthen oversight of state spending. Additionally, lawmakers stressed the importance of a credible successor to the Bank Indonesia Governor to maintain investor confidence.

Love Alone Isn't Enough: The Price of Happiness in 50 Countries

A new analysis reveals a significant gap between average incomes and the income level associated with peak happiness across the globe. Slovenia is the only country among 50 analysed where the average salary surpasses this 'happiness price', while high-income nations like Australia and the United States fall surprisingly short. The findings suggest that a higher cost of living often pushes the satiation point for happiness further out of reach for workers.

Mount Bromo in East Java closed to tourists as wildfires spread

Authorities have indefinitely closed Mount Bromo to tourists after a wildfire in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park expanded dramatically, burning approximately 176 hectares amid dry conditions. The closure of all entrance gates aims to protect visitors and facilitate firefighting operations, with no reopening date set. Officials are urging tourism operators to halt all activities within the park as crews work to contain the blaze spreading toward nearby peaks.

Indonesia Affirms Commitment to Strengthening BRICS

Trade Minister Budi Santoso has reaffirmed Indonesia's commitment to strengthening the multilateral trading system within the BRICS framework. While a joint statement was not reached, ministers agreed on most substantive issues, including support for SMEs and digital transformation. The Minister also proposed a preferential trade agreement with Mercosur to boost economic ties with Latin America.

Law Minister Holds Fun Walk at CFD Rasuna Said, Reveals Prabowo's Directive to Celebrate Independence Day

Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas led a fun walk in Jakarta's car-free day area, stating the event was part of President Prabowo Subianto's instruction for the government to celebrate the 81st Independence Day with joy. The activity also launched a series of events leading up to the 81st Anniversary of the Ministry of Law's 'Hari Pengayoman' on 19 August. The ministry will further host a Global Innovation exhibition to connect researchers with industry, following a similar initiative by the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN).

1,000 Civil Servants Affected by Jakarta Bapenda Building Fire to Work from Home

Approximately 1,000 civil servants in Jakarta have been instructed to work from home following a fire at the Badan Pendapatan Daerah (Bapenda) building. The blaze affected floors 11 to 16 of the building, which also houses the Transportation Agency and the Human Resources Development Agency. Governor Pramono Anung stated the measure ensures the safety of employees while maintaining the continuity of government services.

Academic Community Must Be Grounded and Create Real Impact, Says West Java Governor

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has urged the academic community, particularly the alumni of the Islamic Students' Association (KAHMI), to translate their knowledge into tangible benefits for society. He argued that Indonesia's problems cannot be solved merely through political or regulatory changes, but require intellectualism rooted in Nusantara culture and manifested in real-world innovation. The Governor stressed that the true measure of knowledge is its practical impact on public life, not just the accumulation of academic titles.

Japan to Boost Language Support for Foreign Children

Japan's government is set to enhance Japanese language programmes for newly arrived foreign children as the number of students needing such support continues to rise. An expert panel has urged the central government to take a leading role in creating model preparatory classes and teaching guidelines. The initiative aims to help children adapt to school life and includes exploring the use of generative AI in instruction.

Iran-Oman Hormuz Strait Agreement Predicted to Boost Global Gold Prices

An economic analyst has forecast that the co-management agreement for the Strait of Hormuz between Iran and Oman will drive global gold and precious metal prices significantly higher. The deal is expected to shift investor focus from the US dollar and crude oil towards safe-haven assets like gold. Predictions suggest gold could reach US$5,000 per troy ounce in the third quarter if the agreement stabilises regional shipping lanes.

Baznas Strengthens Fire Preparedness Capacity of RSB Team

Indonesia's National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) has conducted fire mitigation training for staff at its health facility, Rumah Sehat Baznas (RSB). The programme aims to build a culture of preparedness by equipping personnel with skills in early fire suppression and emergency response. Officials stated the training is crucial for ensuring the safety of both staff and patients within the healthcare environment.

KLH/BPLH Invites Youth to Explore MRT as a Solution to Urban Ecological Crisis

Indonesia's Ministry of Environment and Environmental Control Agency (KLH/BPLH) engaged high school students in an experiential learning programme to examine the MRT Jakarta system. The initiative aims to deepen young people's understanding of low-emission transport as a practical response to urban ecological crises and congestion. The programme highlighted the MRT's energy efficiency and the concept of Transit-Oriented Development as a catalyst for sustainable urban regeneration.

Coordinating Minister for Food: Pyrolysis to Complement PSEL in National Waste Management

The Indonesian government is promoting pyrolysis technology to complement Waste-to-Energy (PSEL) plants in tackling the nation's waste problem. Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan stated that existing PSEL capacity can only handle about 22 percent of national waste, with pyrolysis potentially addressing an additional 20 percent. Pilot projects are being developed in five regions, including Bogor and Jakarta, through collaboration with the Army and local governments.

Not IDR 16 Million per Month, This Is the Salary of Kopdes Managers According to Purbaya

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has denied rumours that managers of the Merah Putih Village Cooperative (KDMP) programme will receive a monthly salary of IDR 16 million. He indicated the actual figure is likely closer to the provincial minimum wage or slightly above. The state budget (APBN) is set to cover operational costs and manager salaries for the first two years, with specific provisions being finalised in a presidential regulation.

DKI Jakarta Transportation Agency Launches Call Centre with Free Towing and Funeral Escort Services

The DKI Jakarta Transportation Agency has launched a 24/7 call centre at 1500813, offering five free services including vehicle towing and funeral escort. Governor Pramono Anung stated the initiative aims to address traffic issues, with a target response time of 15 minutes. The service is supported by 52 officers and four phone lines to prevent call congestion.

Bengkulu Case: KPK Seizes Documents After Searching 3 Locations Over 3 Days

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized documents and electronic devices after searching three locations in Bengkulu over three days. The searches, conducted from 5 to 7 August 2026, are part of an investigation into alleged corruption involving state officials within the Bengkulu City Government. This case is an extension of a previous sting operation related to project bribery in Rejang Lebong Regency.

Indonesia, Brazil consider forming Indonesia-Mercosur Preferential Trade Agreement

Indonesia and Brazil are exploring a Preferential Trade Agreement between Indonesia and the Mercosur bloc as a pragmatic initial step to strengthen trade ties, following stalled negotiations on a more comprehensive deal. The agreement aims to open market access, with Brazil serving as a gateway for Indonesian products into Latin America and Indonesia providing access to Asian markets. Total bilateral trade reached $7 billion in 2025, with key Indonesian exports including vegetable oils, vehicles, and electrical machinery.

Nagasaki Marks 81st Anniversary of Atomic Bombing Amid Nuclear Deterrence Debate

Nagasaki commemorated the 81st anniversary of the U.S. atomic bombing, with its mayor urging world leaders to pursue nuclear disarmament. The ceremony occurred against a backdrop of intense debate over nuclear deterrence and the recent failure of a key non-proliferation treaty review conference. Survivors, now averaging 86 years old, are racing to pass on their memories of the attacks.

Pentagon Urges US Defence Industry to Boost Production as Stockpiles Dwindle

The Pentagon has issued an urgent directive to American defence contractors to accelerate weapons production and deliveries, citing critically low stockpiles. The move comes as inventories of key systems like Patriot missiles have been significantly depleted, with the Department of Defense seeking to fast-track procurement frameworks. However, the push faces potential hurdles as a major defence spending bill remains stalled in Congress.

Police Reveal Trigger for Quarrel Leading to Mutilation of Man in Depok

Police have disclosed that a personal dispute over a rejected sexual advance led to the murder and mutilation of a 51-year-old man in Depok. The suspect, Saepul, allegedly became enraged after the victim refused his advances and slapped him. Authorities also revealed that robbery was an initial motive, as the suspect had targeted the victim after seeing him pose with a Honda PCX motorcycle on social media.

Moringa Leaves Prove Effective in Filtering Microplastics from Water

New research reveals that extracts from the moringa tree, widely found in Indonesia, can remove up to 98.5% of microplastics from tap water. The natural coagulant offers a biodegradable and potentially cheaper alternative to commercial chemicals like aluminium sulphate. While promising for small communities, scaling the solution for large urban water treatment plants remains a challenge.

Ngurah Rai Airport Receives Bomb Threat, Celukan Bawang Port Prepared as Java-Bali Alternative Route

Bali's Ngurah Rai Airport was targeted by a hoax bomb threat, prompting a security sweep that found no evidence of danger. Meanwhile, the central government is advancing plans to develop Celukan Bawang Port in Buleleng as an alternative ferry crossing to alleviate congestion on the Ketapang-Gilimanuk route during peak holiday seasons. In a separate incident, two Indian nationals were arrested at the airport for attempting to smuggle cannabis paste valued at Rp 1.5 billion.

Laos Declares National Mourning for Late Parliament Speaker

Laos has announced a five-day national mourning period following the death of National Assembly Chairman Xaysomphone Phomvihane. The veteran politician, a member of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party politburo, died on Saturday at the age of 70 from vasculitis. A state funeral is scheduled for 13 August in Vientiane.

Forest and Land Fire in Mount Rinjani's Sembalun Resort Successfully Controlled

A forest and land fire affecting approximately 30 hectares in the Sembalun Resort area of Mount Rinjani National Park has been brought under control. The blaze, first reported by locals on Friday evening, was extinguished by a joint team of 35 personnel by early Saturday morning. Authorities continue to monitor the site and conduct mopping-up operations to prevent any reignition.

Ministry of Forestry Initiates Paradigm Shift Towards Multidisciplinary Law Enforcement

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry is pushing for a paradigm shift in law enforcement by adopting a multidisciplinary approach to combat illegal forestry, wildlife, and plant crimes. The initiative, discussed in a multi-stakeholder forum in Bogor, aims to move beyond simply penalising offenders by integrating instruments from anti-corruption, taxation, customs, and financial services laws. The strategy focuses on asset recovery and severing the economic incentives behind organised environmental crime.

Trade Minister: BRICS Agrees on Majority of Trade Substance

Indonesian Trade Minister Budi Santoso announced that BRICS trade ministers reached consensus on most substantive issues during their meeting in Jaipur, though a joint statement was not finalised. Indonesia reaffirmed its commitment to a rules-based multilateral trading system and supported initiatives to aid small businesses, strengthen supply chains, and advance digital transformation. The meeting focused on reinforcing the WTO's central role and fostering concrete cooperation to benefit developing economies.

Residents Support Demolition of Viral 'Close but Not Connected' Footbridge on Rasuna Said

Jakarta residents have voiced support for Governor Pramono Anung's plan to demolish an old footbridge on Jalan HR Rasuna Said, which went viral for being situated right next to a newer, connected bridge. The governor cited the old structure's lack of disability access and redundancy as key reasons for its removal. The demolition is expected to proceed without disrupting traffic, with officials promising to improve maintenance on the remaining LRT-connected bridge.

Legal Weekly Roundup: Corruption Crackdown to Nadiem's Chromebook Appeal

Indonesia's legal landscape saw significant activity this week, with the Attorney General's Office suspending a senior prosecutor implicated in a money laundering case and the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) detaining three suspects in a Pertamina digitalisation graft case. Meanwhile, former minister Nadiem Makarim launched his appeal against a ruling on a Chromebook procurement case, and the police addressed the status of a suspect in an illegal nickel mining case who attended a presidential palace meeting.

Weekly economy: Petrol prices fall, EV incentives directed at high-value products

Indonesia's economic landscape this week saw a decline in petrol prices at major retailers, while the government absorbed Rp32 trillion from a sovereign bond auction that attracted over Rp70 trillion in demand. Former Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati was appointed to a senior role at the World Bank, and the Industry Minister confirmed that electric vehicle incentives will be targeted at products with high local added value.

Civil Servant Pension Can Reach Rp1 Billion, Here's the Explanation

The Head of the National Civil Service Agency (BKN), Zudan Arif Fakrulloh, has revealed that civil servants (PNS) can accumulate pension funds of up to Rp1 billion through disciplined investment programmes with PT Taspen. He advocates for the government's planned single salary system, which would merge basic salary and allowances, significantly boosting the base figure used to calculate pension benefits. Currently, PNS pensions are capped at 75% of basic salary, excluding substantial allowances like performance pay, resulting in a sharp income drop upon retirement.

Ukraine Denies Deliberately Targeting Bulgaria After Drone Explodes Near Strategic Gas Pipeline

A Ukrainian drone exploded near the Trans-Balkan gas pipeline on the Bulgaria-Romania border, prompting Sofia to summon Kyiv's ambassador. Ukraine has denied any intentional targeting of the NATO member state, and a subsequent Bulgarian military investigation concluded the incident was an accident. Bulgaria has pledged to tighten border security with additional troops and advanced anti-drone technology in response.

Ministry of Tourism Boosts Yacht Tourism to Strengthen Marine Ecosystem

Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism is promoting yacht tourism as a key pillar to enhance the country's marine tourism ecosystem and global competitiveness. The initiative, highlighted at the INSA Yacht Festival 2026 in Bali, aims to leverage Indonesia's archipelagic advantage and rich marine biodiversity. The government is seeking cross-sector collaboration to build a competitive yacht industry that benefits local communities and related sectors.

BGN to Require Expiry Time Labels on Free Meal Containers Starting Next Week

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) will mandate that all containers for the Free Nutritious Meal programme display a consumption time limit starting next week. The policy aims to enhance food safety by ensuring meals are eaten within a safe window, typically four hours after cooking. Teachers will be responsible for enforcing the rule and preventing consumption of any food past its indicated time.

POPSI Calls for Improved Governance in Palm Oil Mill Development, Rejects Moratorium

The Indonesian Palm Oil Farmers Association (POPSI) has urged the government to improve the governance of new palm oil mill construction rather than imposing a moratorium. Chairman Mansuetus Darto argues that a moratorium would harm independent smallholders and hinder downstream industry development. He advocates for zoning-based planning and linking new permits to the actual supply of fresh fruit bunches in a given area.

Forestry Ministry successfully controls forest fires in Sembalun, Mount Rinjani

The Ministry of Forestry, through the Mount Rinjani National Park Office, has successfully brought a forest and land fire in the Sembalun Resort area under control. The fire, first reported on Friday evening, was extinguished by a joint team of 35 personnel by early Saturday morning. Authorities continue to monitor the site and conduct mopping-up operations to prevent any reignition.

Reason Pramono Dismantles Viral 'Love-Hate Relationship' Pedestrian Bridge

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has ordered the demolition of one of two adjacent pedestrian bridges on Jalan HR Rasuna Said, citing severe accessibility flaws for disabled people. The older structure, built by the provincial government, lacks a lift and has significant height differences, making it unusable for persons with disabilities. The newer bridge, linked to the LRT and railway, will be retained and upgraded to ensure full accessibility.

Minister Says Agriculture Can Be a Path to Alleviating Poverty in Alor

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has identified the agricultural sector as a key solution to poverty in Alor, East Nusa Tenggara, citing the region's significant agro-climatic potential. The government is preparing both short-term and long-term development plans, including planting rice and corn for quick yields alongside long-term crops like coconut, cashew, and cocoa. This initiative aims to support 10,000 families and is coupled with immediate interventions to address high rice prices caused by low local production and logistical challenges.

Saepul Sells Mutilation Victim's Belongings on Facebook: PCX Motorcycle and Mobile Phone Offered Cheaply

Police have revealed that Saepul, the suspect in a murder and mutilation case in Depok, sold the victim's belongings on Facebook Marketplace to fund his daily needs. The victim's Honda PCX motorcycle was sold for IDR 9.9 million and an OPPO Reno 5 mobile phone for IDR 950,000. Saepul now faces the death penalty for the brutal killing, which occurred after a dispute during a meeting arranged via a social media app.

China Unveils Advanced AI Cyber Weapons, US Braces for Impact

Chinese cybersecurity firm 360 Security Technology has introduced two AI-powered tools, 'Yitian Tulong', designed for automated vulnerability detection and cyber defence. Founder Zhou Hongyi positioned the technology as a strategic counter to US-developed systems like Anthropic's Mythos, arguing China cannot afford a one-sided transparency gap. The development comes amid tightening US export controls on advanced chips, which Zhou claims still leaves domestic models with a 20-30% capability gap.

Government Inaugurates 20 New Mass Organisations to Oversee Prabowo's Programmes

Hashim Djojohadikusumo, chairman of the Golden Indonesia Forum (Formas), has inaugurated 20 new mass organisations to bolster civil society's role in supporting and monitoring the government's strategic programmes. The consolidation brings Formas's total membership to 103 organisations, with leaders emphasising a commitment to national development and ensuring policies directly benefit public welfare. Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar also stressed the need for a strong spiritual foundation to achieve the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision.

The Legacy of Bogor's Bag Industry Finds a New Home

The once-iconic bag manufacturing hub of Tajur in Bogor has faded due to imports and e-commerce, but the industry's spirit has migrated to home-based workshops in Ciampea. Artisans like Suhanda have adapted to digital marketing and live selling, sustaining production despite rising material costs and fierce online competition. The shift marks a transformation from a centralised factory model to a dispersed, community-based industry.

Minister Urges Police to Investigate Weapons Find at School, Highlights Student Welfare

Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Arifah Fauzi has expressed deep concern over the discovery of nearly a thousand air rifles, a firearm, narcotics, and pornographic material at a private school in South Jakarta. She has called for a thorough police investigation while stressing that the students must not become victims of the situation. The minister is coordinating with authorities to ensure the children's psychological well-being and right to a safe education are prioritised amid an internal foundation dispute that led to the find.