Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 9 August 2026

Showing 651-700 of 715 articles

After 30 Years Frozen on Everest, 'Green Boots' Identified and Set for Repatriation

The legendary body known as 'Green Boots', a grim landmark on Mount Everest for three decades, has been identified as Indian border guard Dorje Morup. The Indian government is planning a high-risk evacuation mission to recover his remains from the 'Death Zone' at 8,500 metres. The operation, expected to cost billions of rupiah, aims to return the hero to his family, who have awaited closure since the deadly 1996 expedition.

UAE Condemns Iran After Its Oil Tanker Attacked in Strait of Hormuz

The United Arab Emirates has strongly condemned Iran for a missile attack on an Abu Dhabi National Oil Company tanker transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Saudi Arabia joined the condemnation, labelling the incident a serious violation of international law and a threat to global energy security. No casualties were reported in the attack.

Bali to Serve as Laboratory for TNI Earthquake and Tsunami Preparedness Drill in 2026

Bali has been selected as the testing ground for a major Indonesian military (TNI) earthquake and tsunami preparedness exercise in 2026. The drill, led by Joint Regional Defence Command II, aims to test the readiness of personnel, command procedures, and inter-agency coordination in responding to a large-scale natural disaster. The exercise also incorporates humanitarian aspects, including the distribution of aid packages and free medical treatment for local communities.

Mystery of Nearly a Thousand Weapons Found in South Jakarta School Unravelled

Police have clarified that 995 of the 996 weapons discovered at a private school foundation in Pondok Pinang, South Jakarta, are air rifles, with only one being a firearm. The single firearm was registered to a deceased individual, while investigators are now focusing on the legality of the import permit for the air rifles. The former chairman of the foundation is scheduled for questioning next week to determine if the importation was legal or involved smuggling.

Jakarta Bapenda Building Fire: Governor Pramono Assures Tax Data Is Safe

A fire engulfed several floors of the Jakarta Regional Revenue Agency (Bapenda) technical building, but Governor Pramono Anung has confirmed that all tax data remains secure due to digital backups. The blaze, which affected floors 11 to 16, was extinguished without casualties, though it disrupted the city's automated traffic light system. Public services are continuing normally, with affected civil servants temporarily working from home or other offices.

Carbon Economy Opens Opportunities for Added Value from Forests and Mangroves

Indonesia's vast forests, mangroves, and peatlands present significant economic opportunities through the carbon economy, according to VCarboN CEO Heppy Trenggono. He emphasised that the world is increasingly willing to pay for preserved natural assets, not just extracted resources. A new collaboration between Universitas Brawijaya and VCarboN aims to leverage multidisciplinary research and technology to transform Indonesia's natural capital into sustainable economic strength.

BPS: 2026 Economic Census to Map New Economic Structure and MSMEs

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) is conducting the 2026 Economic Census to update the national economic database, a decade after the last survey. The census aims to capture the significant structural shifts in production, marketing, and distribution driven by the boom in digital trade and home-based businesses. Officials stress that the aggregated data will be crucial for formulating precise, evidence-based policies for micro, small, and medium enterprises, and is protected by law from being used for taxation purposes.

Gaikindo Optimistic About Positive Trend Continuing at GIIAS 2026

Gaikindo is confident that visitor numbers at the 2026 Indonesia International Auto Show will surpass last year's figures, reflecting growing public enthusiasm for the automotive sector. The event features over 65 global brands and has hosted 37 new vehicle launches, reinforcing its role as a key industry platform. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa noted that car sales grew 32.9 per cent year-on-year in June 2026.

Unnatural Death of Sutrimo Reported to Police, Complainant Requests Exhumation

The death of Sutrimo, found outside a beauty clinic in South Jakarta, has been reported to the Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Department (Bareskrim) as suspicious. The complainant has requested an exhumation to further investigate the circumstances, while police plan to summon the doctor who initially treated the deceased. The case has drawn public attention amid unverified reports linking the victim to a former senior prosecutor and viral images suggesting the body showed signs of foaming at the mouth.

Joint Task Force Extinguishes 12.5 Hectares of Forest and Land Fires in Two Locations in Bengkalis

A joint task force comprising police, military, and disaster agencies has successfully brought under control forest and land fires that scorched 12.5 hectares across two separate locations in Bengkalis Regency, Riau. The fires affected peatland within an oil palm company's concession and community land, with extreme heat and strong winds hampering firefighting efforts. Authorities are continuing cooling operations and have launched an investigation into the cause of the blazes.

Jakarta's air quality recorded as unhealthy on Sunday morning

Air quality in Jakarta was classified as unhealthy on Sunday morning, with PM 2.5 pollutant concentrations 12.1 times higher than the World Health Organisation's annual guideline. IQAir data placed the capital fourth among the world's most polluted cities, prompting health authorities to advise residents to wear masks outdoors and limit outside activities. The Jakarta Health Office also urged the public to stay hydrated and protect vulnerable groups from the poor air conditions.

Strait of Hormuz Heats Up: UAE Oil Tanker Attacked During Transit

An Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) tanker was targeted in a missile attack while transiting the Strait of Hormuz, though no injuries were reported. Iran's military has stated the vital waterway will only reopen if the United States accepts Tehran's conditions, escalating tensions that have already disrupted global energy supplies. The incident comes amid a significant drop in shipping traffic and ongoing negotiations involving Oman.

Bontang Kuala: The Warmth of Life in a Floating Fishing Village

Bontang Kuala in East Kalimantan is a historic floating fishing village dating back to 1789, where daily life unfolds on sturdy ulin wood walkways above the waters of the Makassar Strait. The unique settlement, divided into floating and land-based neighbourhoods, prohibits cars to preserve a peaceful, pedestrian-friendly atmosphere. The community exemplifies a harmonious coexistence with nature, sustained by ancestral customs and a resilient local economy centred on fishing.

UBSI and UNTAN Forge Strategic Partnership to Strengthen Higher Education's Tri Dharma

Bina Sarana Informatika University (UBSI) and Tanjungpura University (UNTAN) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance the implementation of the Tri Dharma of higher education. The agreement focuses on collaborative programmes in education, research, and community service, alongside human resource capacity building and institutional governance. The partnership was formalised during a community service event in Pontianak, West Kalimantan, and aims to foster innovation and deliver tangible benefits to society.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Allocates Rp 4.1 Trillion for Madrasah and RA Operational Assistance Phase II

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs is processing the disbursement of Rp 4.1 trillion in Phase II operational assistance for the 2026 fiscal year. The funds, comprising Rp 3.7 trillion for Madrasah School Operational Assistance (BOS) and Rp 370 billion for Raudlatul Athfal (RA) Operational Assistance, are earmarked for 52,000 private madrasahs and 31,000 RAs nationwide. Administrators are required to submit their accountability reports for Phase I before applying for the second tranche through the ministry's digital portal.

Jakarta Transportation Agency: Traffic Control Continues After Bapenda Building Fire

The Jakarta Transportation Agency has assured the public that traffic management services remain operational following a fire at the Regional Revenue Agency building. The blaze affected the operational room for the Traffic Control System, prompting the deployment of personnel to priority intersections. The agency has also relocated its call centre to maintain public services.

UBSI and Universitas Panca Bhakti Sign MoU to Strengthen Academic Collaboration

Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) and Universitas Panca Bhakti (UPB) have formalised a strategic partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding in Pontianak, West Kalimantan. The agreement focuses on enhancing cooperation in education, research, and community service, including a specific programme for professor-led community engagement. UBSI's Rector emphasised that this synergy aims to produce impactful programmes that improve higher education quality and contribute to national development.

Bromo Wildfire Expands to 176 Hectares Amid Strong Winds

A wildfire in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park (TNBTS) in East Java has rapidly expanded to an estimated 176 hectares, driven by strong winds. The escalating blaze has forced authorities to completely close all tourist access to Mount Bromo to ensure visitor safety and facilitate firefighting efforts. Firefighters are prioritising containment to prevent the flames from spreading further into the forested areas.

Bloodstained Number Plate: Silent Witness to Ambarawa Mobile Phone Shop Owner's Murder

Police investigating the murder of a mobile phone shop owner in Ambarawa have revealed key evidence, including a bloodstained number plate found in the car boot where the victim's body was discovered. The victim, Candra Waskito, was killed by two suspects who then drove his car to Grobogan and abandoned it with his body inside.

All Access to Mount Bromo Closed as Wildfire Spreads

The Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park Agency has completely closed all tourist access to Mount Bromo to facilitate firefighting efforts. The closure, effective Saturday night, was prompted by the expanding wildfire in the Tengger Caldera area. Officials have assured that visitors with pre-booked tickets can reschedule or receive a full refund.

US President Once Wanted to 'Borrow' Indonesian Official to Handle Overseas Crisis

Former US President Bill Clinton once requested to 'borrow' Kuntoro Mangkusubroto, the head of Indonesia's Aceh-Nias reconstruction agency, to help manage the recovery effort in Haiti after the devastating 2010 earthquake. The request, revealed by former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, highlighted international recognition of Indonesia's successful and corruption-free post-tsunami reconstruction model. Kuntoro ultimately never took on the role, but the story underscores the global acclaim for Indonesia's disaster management capabilities.

Mount Bromo Tourism Closed Completely Due to Caldera Fire

Authorities have shut down all tourist access to Mount Bromo in East Java following a forest and land fire that has spread within the Tengger Caldera. The closure, effective from Saturday night, aims to facilitate firefighting efforts and ensure public safety as flames continue to spread, fanned by strong winds. The Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park (TNBTS) has also offered compensation options for visitors who had pre-booked online tickets.

Refinery Development and the Remaining Homework

The success of the Balikpapan refinery upgrade offers a blueprint for Indonesia's future energy projects, but systemic issues continue to delay other strategic national refineries. The article argues that consistent commitment, mature funding schemes, and robust inter-stakeholder coordination are essential to replicate this success and avoid repeated failures.

Jakarta Weekly Roundup: Bapenda Fire, EV Tax Policy, and Investment Realisation

A fire damaged the Jakarta Regional Revenue Agency (Bapenda) building, while the city reported investment realisation of IDR 173.6 trillion in the first half of 2026, absorbing 289,000 workers. Meanwhile, the Jakarta Regional Legislative Council (DPRD) urged the provincial government not to set electric vehicle taxes too low, citing the significant potential for local revenue (PAD).

Indonesia and South Africa Agree to Preserve Sheikh Yusuf Al-Makassari's Legacy

Indonesia and South Africa have agreed to strengthen cultural cooperation by preserving the heritage of Sheikh Yusuf Al-Makassari. The agreement was reached during a meeting between the two nations' culture ministers on the sidelines of the BRICS Culture Ministers' Meeting in India. The collaboration will focus on joint commemorations, research, and the establishment of an Indonesian Cultural House in Cape Town.

Stock Investors Reach 10 Million SID as of August 2026, Growing 16%

The number of stock investors in Indonesia has surpassed 10 million single investor identifications (SID), marking a 16% year-to-date increase. The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) attributes this growth to rising financial inclusion, while the overall capital market investor base has reached 30.27 million. Regulators and industry players are targeting further expansion through digital collaboration and strengthening communication between listed companies and investors.

Mining Production Certainty Impacts Company Contributions to the State

Certainty of production in the mining sector is deemed crucial for maintaining the mineral and coal industry's contribution to state revenue. The sustainability of investment and operational certainty are key to supporting downstream processing and national economic independence. State-owned mining holding MIND ID and its members, including Freeport Indonesia, are projected to contribute significantly through dividends, taxes, and royalties.

Want to Be a BUMN Employee? Here Are 15 University Majors with Wide Open Opportunities

Aspiring to work for an Indonesian state-owned enterprise (BUMN) requires strategic educational planning. This article outlines 15 university majors, from management and accounting to engineering and law, that offer strong prospects for recruitment across BUMN's diverse sectors including banking, energy, and construction.

Tax Data Safe After Fire at Jakarta Regional Revenue Agency Building

A fire at the Jakarta Regional Revenue Agency (Bapenda) technical building on Friday night has been extinguished, and officials confirm that all tax data remains secure due to digital backups. While the cause is still under police investigation, public services continue with temporary manual traffic light controls and remote working arrangements for affected civil servants.

Government Seeks New Tax Sources, Rental Properties to Be Targeted

The Indonesian government is planning to expand its tax base by targeting individuals who own multiple properties and earn income from renting them out. A finance ministry official stated that the tax potential from rental income has not been fully optimised. The government is also strengthening data integration between agencies and improving the Coretax system to enhance compliance and revenue collection.

Bumibaru Harvests 307,000 kg from Degraded Land in Central Kalimantan

PT Bumibaru Indonesia Jaya has successfully harvested over 307,000 kilograms of agricultural produce from severely degraded land in Tangkiling, Central Kalimantan, using a regenerative approach. The company restored soil quality on land that was 94% sand, raising the pH level and achieving a 94% plant survival rate without clearing new areas. This model is being positioned as a scalable solution for reclaiming unproductive land across Indonesia through partnerships with local farmers and agribusiness firms.

Indonesian Children's Theatre to Perform Peace Play in Spain

Teater Tanah Air will represent Indonesia as the only Asian participant at the 10th International Children's Theatre Festival in Valencia, Spain, this October. The group of 13 young performers will stage 'Peace', a work by renowned Indonesian writer Putu Wijaya, carrying a message of global harmony. The troupe is currently seeking government support to fund their trip to the prestigious event.

Surabaya's Stolen Benches: A Reflection on Public Asset Protection and Collective Responsibility

The theft of park benches in Surabaya highlights a deeper issue of public apathy towards shared assets. The city government emphasizes that protecting public facilities requires collective community participation, not just law enforcement. Routine patrols and legal action are being strengthened to prevent such incidents from becoming a destructive habit.

Jakarta Forecast to Be Partly Cloudy This Sunday

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has forecast partly cloudy conditions across Jakarta for Sunday. The agency also highlighted the active El Niño phenomenon in 2026, which is expected to trigger a longer and drier dry season, increasing the risk of drought and necessitating strengthened national mitigation and preparedness measures.

Family Formally Reports Sutrimo's Death to Police

The family of Sutrimo has officially reported his death to the Banyumas Police, seeking legal clarity amid conflicting reports surrounding the incident. Sutrimo was found dead in front of a clinic in South Jakarta in July, with initial reports suggesting he was the household head for a former senior prosecutor. Police are currently investigating the circumstances, having gathered witness statements and medical records.

Mastel Urges Global Platforms to Contribute to National Digital Infrastructure

The Indonesian Telematics Society (Mastel) is calling for a more balanced digital ecosystem where global over-the-top (OTT) platforms contribute to the nation's digital infrastructure development. The organisation argues that while these platforms benefit from the local telecommunications network, the investment burden for infrastructure remains disproportionately on the telecom sector. Mastel supports the government's push for a fair share scheme to ensure sustainable digital growth.

From trackside shacks to new homes, Jakarta families weigh what comes next

The Indonesian government has begun relocating families from informal railside settlements in Central Jakarta to newly built, rent-free housing as part of a national programme to improve safety and living conditions. Dozens of households from Pasar Senen have already moved into the Hunian Senen complex, which provides basic amenities and a six-month grace period on utility bills. The initiative, led by President Prabowo Subianto, is set to expand to other railway-adjacent communities across the country through 2027.

IHSG Surges 2.78% in a Week as Foreign Investors Return with Rp1.24 Trillion in Net Purchases

The Indonesian Composite Index (IHSG) rallied 2.78% during the first week of August 2026, closing at 6,409.654, buoyed by significant foreign net buying of Rp1.24 trillion on Friday. Despite the weekly inflow, cumulative foreign net sales for the year remain substantial at Rp71.29 trillion. The exchange also celebrated a milestone as the total number of capital market investors surpassed 30 million.

Police Collect Samples from Three Floors of Jakarta Bapenda Building After Fire

Investigators have collected ash and charcoal samples from the 11th, 12th, and 16th floors of the Jakarta Regional Revenue Agency (Bapenda) building following a recent fire. The samples will undergo forensic laboratory testing to determine the exact point of origin and the cause of the blaze. Authorities suspect the fire may have started on the 11th or 12th floor, where an archive room is located.

Iran Sets Conditions for US Before Reopening Strait of Hormuz

Iran's top security official has outlined a series of demands that must be met by the United States before Tehran will consider reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The conditions include lifting the naval blockade, withdrawing military forces, and providing compensation for damages. The move comes as Iran signals progress in separate talks with Oman over the waterway's management.

Foreign Investors Net Sell Rp 791 Billion, Here Are the Most Sold Shares This Week

Despite the Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) strengthening by 1.04% this week, foreign investors recorded a net sell of Rp 791.2 billion across the market. While banking stocks like BBRI, BMRI, and BBCA saw buying interest, heavy selling pressure was concentrated on petrochemical, mining, and energy shares. The top net sell stocks included Chandra Asri Pacific, Amman Mineral Internasional, and Merdeka Gold Resources.

Bromo Closed Due to Fire, Tourists Can Request Ticket Refunds

The Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park has been completely closed to visitors following a widespread forest fire. Park authorities are offering tourists who have already purchased entry tickets the option to reschedule their visit or obtain a full refund. The closure, effective from Saturday night, will remain in place indefinitely to ensure visitor safety and support firefighting operations.

Manufacturing Slows to 4.52%, BPS Insists Indonesia's Industrialisation Remains Strong

Indonesia's manufacturing sector growth decelerated to 4.52% year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026, down from 5.6% in the previous quarter. However, the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) maintains that industrialisation momentum remains robust, driven by strong non-oil and gas processing industries and downstream mineral processing. The agency highlighted that food and beverage, metal goods, and textile sub-sectors are key pillars sustaining the sector's overall performance.

Danantara Invests Rp 44.75 Trillion in JBS to Develop Protein Ecosystem

Indonesia's Danantara Investment Management is investing US$2.5 billion for a 25 per cent stake in a joint venture with global protein giant JBS, covering operations in Australia and New Zealand. The partnership aims to strengthen Indonesia's protein supply chain and expand market access across Southeast Asia. The deal, which includes provisions for further investment, remains subject to regulatory approvals.

Employee Experience Becomes Corporate Strategy for Talent Development

Companies in Indonesia are increasingly prioritising employee experience—encompassing career development, wellbeing, and inclusion—as a core strategy to attract and retain talent. Danone Indonesia is among 16 firms to receive the Top Employer Indonesia 2026 certification, scoring above global benchmarks in wellbeing, career development, and diversity. The company views the recognition as validation of its commitment to fostering a collaborative and sustainable work environment.

House Commission VI Promotes SOE Partnerships for MSMEs in Situbondo

House of Representatives Commission VI member HM Nasim Khan facilitated a meeting between micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), the Muslimat NU organisation, and Bank BRI in Situbondo, East Java. The event focused on improving financial literacy, easing access to financing such as the Kredit Usaha Rakyat (KUR) programme, and warning against illegal online loans. The initiative is part of a recess activity aimed at strengthening synergy between state-owned enterprises and local communities.

Thieves Break into University Safe in Mojokerto, Rp 1 Billion in Operational Funds Stolen

A group of thieves broke into a safe at KH Abdul Chalim University in Mojokerto, East Java, making off with approximately Rp 1 billion in university operational funds. The burglary, which lasted around 30 minutes, was captured on CCTV showing the perpetrators wearing face coverings. Police are currently investigating the incident, having processed the crime scene and reviewed the footage.

Bank Jakarta Strengthens Sustainable Transformation Foundation Through Digital Talent Investment

Bank Jakarta has launched an Officer Development Program (ODP) in Information Technology to build digital talent, reinforcing its long-term transformation strategy. The initiative, conducted in partnership with BINUS University, aims to equip participants with technical skills and banking business acumen. The bank's leadership emphasized that investing in human capital is crucial for driving innovation, operational efficiency, and cybersecurity resilience in an increasingly digital financial landscape.

Project Delays Are the Main Enemy of Upstream Oil and Gas

A leading practitioner has warned that project delays, rather than technical challenges, are the greatest threat to Indonesia's upstream oil and gas sector. Such delays significantly erode investment value and undermine the effectiveness of government fiscal incentives. The industry requires timely project execution and competitive policies to counter the natural decline of mature fields and meet national production targets.

IDX records 16.83 percent growth in stock investors, reaching 10.05 million SIDs

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) reported that the number of stock investors grew by 16.83 percent year-to-date, reaching 10.05 million Single Investor Identifications (SIDs) as of 7 August 2026. The total number of capital market investors across all instruments surged by 48.78 percent to 30.27 million SIDs. The IDX is actively working to deepen the market through investor-emitent connectivity events, while the Financial Services Authority (OJK) targets 35 million capital market investors by 2030.