Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 9 August 2026

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Illegal Parking Attendant Arrested in West Jakarta After Threatening Motorist, Tests Positive for Drugs

Police in Tambora, West Jakarta, have arrested a man known as 'Bang Jago' for extortion and threats after he attempted to force a motorcyclist to pay an illegal parking fee and challenged him to a fight. The suspect, who was using expired parking tickets, was apprehended after the victim reported the incident via the police hotline. Subsequent tests revealed the man was positive for amphetamines.

Malaysian Pilot Smuggling 70,114 Ecstasy Pills to Jakarta Still Under Legal Process, Says Law Minister

Indonesia's Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas has stated that the case of a Malaysian pilot caught smuggling over 70,000 ecstasy pills into Jakarta remains under legal process. The pilot, identified as MSO, was arrested by customs officials at Soekarno-Hatta Airport after arriving from Kuala Lumpur. The minister urged the public to await the outcome of the law enforcement process before speculating on potential sentences.

Missed Out on Independence Day Ceremony Invitations? Government Prepares Public Festival

The Indonesian government has closed registration for invitations to the 81st Independence Day ceremony at the State Palace and is directing the public to alternative open events. A People's Party at Monas and a Freedom Carnival along the Monas-Sarinah-Bundaran HI route will be held to accommodate the overwhelming public enthusiasm. Over 128,000 people registered for the ceremony on the first day alone.

Indonesian Citizens Lose IDR 9.1 Trillion to Scams, 1,000 Victims Daily

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) reports that citizens have lost IDR 9.1 trillion to digital scams, with the Anti-Scam Centre receiving approximately 1,000 reports daily. The OJK has managed to block or save IDR 432 billion of the reported losses, but the recovery process is hampered by victims often reporting the crime more than 12 hours after it occurs. Authorities face increasing challenges as stolen funds are rapidly moved not only between bank accounts but also into e-wallets, cryptocurrencies, and other digital assets.

Indonesia, Iran seek stronger cultural cooperation

Indonesia and Iran are exploring an extension of their cultural exchange programme beyond 2026, with proposed collaboration in film, literature, and heritage. Culture Minister Fadli Zon and his Iranian counterpart discussed co-producing films and jointly nominating the iftar tradition for UNESCO recognition. The talks, held on the sidelines of the BRICS Culture Ministers’ Meeting, signal a mutual commitment to deepening bilateral cultural and diplomatic ties.

Peatland Fires Rage Out of Control in Jambi's Sungai Gelam

Peatland fires in Jambi's Muarojambi Regency have scorched over 50 hectares, with Governor Al Haris acknowledging that difficult terrain, strong winds, and scarce water supplies are severely hampering containment efforts. The joint task force is intensifying ground and aerial water bombing while constructing firebreaks to prevent further spread. The affected area includes scrubland and privately owned oil palm plantations.

South Sulawesi Government Prepares 300 Water Pumps to Mitigate El Niño Impact

The South Sulawesi provincial government is deploying 300 water pumps to combat the effects of prolonged drought caused by El Niño. The pumps are prioritised for irrigating agricultural land experiencing water shortages, with the aim of maintaining rice productivity. Authorities are also preparing to drill boreholes, subject to geological surveys, to safeguard the region's status as a key national rice producer.

Police Continue Search for Mutilation Victim's Legs, Urge Public to Report Findings

Police in Depok are continuing their search for the missing legs of a 51-year-old man who was murdered and mutilated by a 26-year-old suspect in late July. The suspect, Saepul, allegedly dismembered the victim's body and disposed of the parts in different locations, with the torso found in early August. Authorities have appealed to the public for information and are facing challenges in recovering the remains from a river due to strong currents.

Lestari Moerdijat Urges Ratification of Indigenous Peoples Bill

MPR Deputy Speaker Lestari Moerdijat has called for the immediate ratification of the Indigenous Peoples Bill, citing a 'humanitarian emergency' marked by widespread land loss and criminalisation. She highlighted that over 11.7 million hectares of customary land have been lost and 162 indigenous people have been criminalised, according to AMAN data. Moerdijat stressed that passing the bill is a constitutional mandate, not merely a political choice, to provide legal protection for indigenous communities.

Trade Ministry Pushes to Optimise IUAE-CEPA to Boost Bilateral Trade and Investment

Indonesia's Trade Ministry is urging the optimal use of the Indonesia-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement to strengthen bilateral economic ties. The agreement, in its third year, has already contributed to a trade surplus for Indonesia, with total trade reaching US$3.14 billion in the first half of 2026. Both nations are working to resolve outstanding implementation issues, including tariff rate quotas and anti-dumping cases, ahead of a second Joint Committee Meeting.

PT TPS Records 11.79 Percent Growth in Container Traffic in July

PT Terminal Petikemas Surabaya (TPS) reported an 11.79 per cent month-on-month increase in container throughput in July, driven entirely by international traffic. The company is currently integrating new electric cranes, which has contributed to a year-on-year correction in overall volumes. TPS maintains a dominant 83 per cent market share for international containers at Tanjung Perak Port.

Market Sentiment Next Week: US Inflation to Prabowo's Speech

Financial markets are bracing for a pivotal week ahead, with domestic attention focused on President Prabowo's state address and the unveiling of the 2027 state budget draft. Globally, investors will also closely watch the latest US inflation figures and UK economic growth data for further policy clues.

Bandung Padel Business Fined Rp100 Million and Ordered to Plant 1,000 Trees

The owner of a padel court in Bandung has been fined Rp100 million and ordered to plant 1,000 trees after illegally felling 10 trees to install a video billboard. The Ministry of Environment confirmed the business admitted to the illegal logging and has paid the fine. Additional violations were discovered, including the absence of a wastewater treatment plant and the blocking of a public drainage channel, which will result in further administrative sanctions.

Hashim Reveals Prabowo's Concern Behind Free Nutritious Meal Programme

Hashim Djojohadikusumo, Chairman of the Forum Masyarakat Indonesia Emas (Formas), has stated that President Prabowo Subianto's Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme was born from his sadness at seeing citizens who have not yet achieved prosperity. The remarks were made as the business group Gapempi joined Formas, becoming its 93rd member, to support the national development agenda. The collaboration aims to unite civil society and business elements to realise the Indonesia Emas 2045 vision.

BSN Lilawangsa Run Draws 2,000 Runners, Donations Channelled to Houses of Worship

The BSN Lilawangsa Run 2026 in Lhokseumawe, Aceh, attracted approximately 2,000 participants and incorporated a charity element, converting each finisher into a donation for local houses of worship. Bank BSN's CEO stated the event aimed to combine sport with social benefit, with the Rp81,000 per finisher donation symbolising Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. Organisers hope the run becomes an annual event promoting collaboration and community welfare.

Pramono: TransJakarta to Manage Transport to Thousand Islands Next Year

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has announced plans to transfer the management of transportation services to the Thousand Islands from the Transportation Agency to the city-owned enterprise TransJakarta starting next year. The move aims to provide easier, more efficient, and guaranteed transport for residents travelling between the mainland and the islands.

Mount Bromo Fires: Indonesia warns of strict penalties for violators

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has called for a law enforcement investigation into the forest and land fires at Mount Bromo, warning of severe punishment for deliberate violations. The fires, suspected to have been started by human activity along a traditional route, have been exacerbated by the dry season and the El Niño phenomenon. Authorities are deploying water-bombing helicopters and considering weather modification to combat the spreading wildfires.

AI Gets Smarter, But Humans Must Not Lose Their Role

The rapid adoption of artificial intelligence in Indonesia, reaching 92 per cent, presents both opportunities and risks. While AI enhances efficiency in the workplace, concerns are growing that over-reliance could erode human critical thinking and decision-making capabilities. The shift from Industry 4.0 to the human-centred Society 5.0 concept underscores the need to ensure technology serves humanity without creating dependency.

Transjakarta Launches New 51ST Route Connecting Bundaran Senayan and Ancol for Car-Free Day

The Jakarta provincial government has introduced a dedicated Transjakarta bus route, 51ST, linking the Bundaran Senayan and Ancol car-free day zones. The service, which operates on Sundays using electric buses, aims to provide integrated and environmentally friendly transport for residents. A promotional fare of Rp1 was offered on the launch day, with the standard Rp3,500 fare applying thereafter.

BCA Opens Registration for 2027 Bakti Scholarship for State University Students

PT Bank Central Asia Tbk (BCA) has opened registration for its 2027 Bakti Scholarship programme, targeting active undergraduate students at Indonesian state universities. The programme offers financial support for tuition and living expenses, alongside personal development and community empowerment initiatives. Since its inception in 1999, the scholarship has supported over 9,200 students as part of the bank's commitment to strengthening human resources and national development.

Lawmaker pushes for Magelang to become a model of religious tolerance

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has urged that the city of Magelang be developed as a national exemplar of religious tolerance. Wibowo Prasetyo highlighted the city's strong tradition of diversity and interfaith harmony as a key asset. The call was made during a public discussion involving various religious communities, which also saw the signing of a joint declaration to strengthen unity.

Said Aldi Holds Meeting with BMK 57, Discusses Young Golkar Cadre Strategy in Central Java

Golkar Party's Youth and Sports Head, Said Aldi Al Idrus, convened a strategic meeting with the Barisan Muda Kosgoro 1957 (BMK 57) in Central Java to address youth political engagement. The meeting followed the BMK 57 congress, where Rizki Maulana was elected as the new chairman. Aldi stressed the need for a digital-savvy, flexible approach to recruitment to counter declining nationalistic values and prepare for the party's 2026 consolidation towards the Indonesia Emas 2045 vision.

Gebogan Festival Boosts Visits at The Blooms-Ulun Danu Beratan

The Gebogan and Baleganjur Parade at Ulun Danu Beratan and The Blooms Garden in Bali has driven a 62 per cent surge in tourist visits. The festival, running from 21 June to 9 August 2026, also aims to preserve tradition and uplift the local economy by showcasing agricultural products. A gebogan made from 'jaje uli' by PKK Banjar Adat Batusesa won first prize, inspired by the temple's iconic meru and a peacock spot at The Blooms Garden.

Thousands Flock to Makassar Naval Base for Warship Open Day

Thousands of Makassar residents visited the Naval Main Base VI to board warships during the Naval Base Open Day 2026. The event, part of the Navy's anniversary celebrations, aimed to familiarise the public with naval assets and featured attractions such as paratrooper displays and a Sukhoi jet performance. Visitors expressed pride in the Indonesian Navy, with many experiencing a warship visit for the first time.

UGM Opens Full Scholarship Opportunities for 20 Postgraduate Students

Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has announced the opening of the Jardine-Gadjah Mada Postgraduate Scholarship Programme for the 2026/2027 academic year, offering full funding for 20 students. The scheme, a collaboration with the Jardine Foundation, covers tuition, living costs, and research support for 10 Master's and 10 Doctoral candidates. The foundation has shifted its focus from undergraduate scholarships at Oxford and Cambridge to supporting postgraduate studies at leading Asian universities, including UGM and ITB.

OJK Reveals Causes Behind 5.33% Decline in Multifinance Investment Financing in First Half of 2026

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has reported a 5.33% year-on-year contraction in investment financing by multifinance companies, attributing the decline to increased business caution regarding capital expenditure amid economic uncertainty. While investment financing fell to Rp167.89 trillion, working capital and multipurpose financing segments recorded growth, contributing to an overall industry receivables increase of 1.88% to Rp511.26 trillion. The regulator also noted that eight finance companies are yet to meet the minimum core capital requirement of Rp100 billion, though all have submitted compliance action plans.

Home Renovation Programme for Parents of Sekolah Rakyat Students Begins in Madura

A government home renovation programme targeting parents of Sekolah Rakyat students has commenced in Sumenep, Madura, with eight houses already passing verification. The initiative, a collaboration between the Ministry of Social Affairs and the Ministry of Housing, aims to renovate 10,000 uninhabitable homes nationwide. Officials also emphasised providing economic empowerment assistance to help beneficiary families achieve self-sufficiency.

World's Largest Passenger Aircraft Touches Down at Soekarno-Hatta for the First Time

An Emirates Airbus A380-800, the world's largest operating passenger aircraft, made its inaugural landing at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport on Saturday night. The arrival was in support of a pre-season football tour, but airport management emphasised it marks a significant milestone for Indonesia's international connectivity. The successful operation demonstrates the airport's readiness to handle Code F aircraft, reflecting international confidence in its infrastructure.

Massive Fire at Jagong Jeget Market in Aceh Destroys 96 Kiosks

A major fire has destroyed 96 wooden kiosks at the Jagong Jeget Market in Central Aceh, though no fatalities were reported. Local authorities are investigating the cause of the blaze while emergency services establish aid posts and public kitchens for the affected traders.

Bandung DPRD Tightens Oversight on Hospital and Inspectorate Building Projects, Maps Legal and Budget Risks

The Bandung City Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD) is intensifying oversight of two strategic construction projects to prevent delays and budget overruns. A focus group discussion mapped key risks including administrative, legal, technical, and financial challenges. The council insists the outcomes must produce a clear mitigation matrix with defined roles for all stakeholders.

BPDP Showcases Flagship Programmes and Supports Plantation SMEs at Surabaya Great Expo

The Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP) is participating in the Surabaya Great Expo to promote its development programmes for palm oil, coconut, and cocoa, while also supporting small and medium enterprises. The agency aims to educate the public on its role in advancing sustainable plantation management and downstream product innovation. BPDP also featured SME partners producing chocolate and batik to expand their market access and business networks.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Board Reviews Energy Supply in Riau Islands

The Board of Commissioners of PT Pertamina Patra Niaga conducted a working visit to the Riau Islands to inspect operational readiness, the security of vital national assets, and community empowerment programmes. The visit included a review of the Integrated Terminal Tanjung Uban, which handles high volumes of fuel and LPG distribution for Sumatra and West Kalimantan. Discussions were also held with the Indonesian Navy on securing vital energy infrastructure.

Mount Bromo fires: 3 helicopters deployed for up to 30 daily drops

The Indonesian government has deployed three water-bombing helicopters to tackle forest fires on Mount Bromo's inaccessible slopes, with crews aiming for up to 30 drops daily. Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni noted that operations remain weather-dependent, while ground teams have built a six-kilometre firebreak to contain the blaze. A unified command structure has been established to improve coordination between aerial and ground units.

Plugging Fiscal Leaks: Six Barru Companies Face Tax Hike After Eight-Year 'Slumber'

The Barru Regency Revenue Agency (Bapenda) has raised taxes on six corporations after an appraisal team found their tax contributions had remained stagnant and failed to reflect actual assets or turnover for eight years. The adjustment targets firms in trade, services, and industry, aiming to boost locally generated revenue (PAD) and ensure fiscal fairness. Officials warned that verification of other companies will continue in phases to prevent further losses to the region's tax potential.

Cuba Faces Fuel Shortages and Energy Crisis, Increasingly Reliant on China

Cuba is grappling with a severe energy crisis and daily blackouts, exacerbated by a sharp decline in oil imports from Venezuela. To mitigate the situation, the country has turned to China, which has significantly increased its supply of solar power equipment, with exports surging from US$3 million in 2023 to US$117 million in 2025. Despite the addition of new solar capacity, the island's ageing grid and lack of battery storage limit its ability to fully utilise the new installations.

IRGC: Strait of Hormuz Closed Until US Meets Conditions, 'This Is a Battlefield'

Iran's Revolutionary Guards have declared the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until the United States meets Tehran's demands, including war reparations. The IRGC described the strategic waterway as a 'battlefield' rather than a mere shipping lane. Meanwhile, Iran's foreign minister confirmed technical talks with Oman on new maritime routes are in their final stages, but stressed that reopening the strait depends on broader conditions being met.

TNGGP records 150 joint personnel still battling to extinguish fire

Around 150 joint personnel and volunteers are struggling to contain a wildfire on the slopes of Mount Gede in West Java, which has already scorched over six hectares of land. The blaze, centred on the Wadon crater, is believed to have been ignited by extreme heat igniting dry vegetation. Firefighting efforts are being severely hampered by inaccessible terrain, strong winds, and an abundance of dry, flammable trees.

KAI Daop 6 Handles 1,075 Lost Items Worth Rp1.16 Billion in First Half of 2026

PT Kereta Api Indonesia's (KAI) Operational Area 6 in Yogyakarta processed 1,075 items left behind by passengers on trains and at stations during the first half of 2026, with a total estimated value of Rp1.16 billion. The volume of lost items surged by 69 percent compared to the same period last year, though the total value decreased by 14 percent. KAI reported a 99 percent resolution rate for these cases, returning the majority of items to their owners or handing them over to authorities.

Investment Management Consolidation and ESG Issues

Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund Danantara is consolidating four state-owned investment management firms into a single entity with over Rp170 trillion in assets under management. The merger, part of a broader streamlining of over 250 state-owned enterprises, aims to create a globally competitive national player. The move raises significant questions about the future integration of environmental, social, and governance principles within the newly formed giant.

Forestry Minister Hands Over Bromo Fire Cause Investigation to Law Enforcement

Indonesia's Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has delegated the investigation into the cause of the forest and land fires in the Mount Bromo area to law enforcement, stressing that anyone found guilty of starting fires will face severe punishment. The Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park authority suspects the fire was caused by human activity, possibly an improperly extinguished campfire. The minister also highlighted the impact of the El Niño phenomenon, which has led to a drier dry season, and urged the public to avoid using fire in forested areas.

Danantara Invests Rp 44.75 Trillion in JBS, Economist Highlights Import Dependency

Danantara Indonesia has committed US$2.5 billion to a joint venture with global protein company JBS Group, securing a 25 per cent stake in its Australian and New Zealand operations. The investment aims to bolster Indonesia's protein ecosystem, but economist Yusuf warns it may not automatically reduce the nation's reliance on beef and cattle imports. He stressed that the impact on domestic food security hinges on whether the capital is directed towards upstream sectors like breeding and feed, rather than merely strengthening global supply chains.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Welcomed by SR Students' Poem 'From the Streets to Hope'

Students from Indonesia's Sekolah Rakyat (People's Schools) showcased their talents, including a moving poetry performance, during a school orientation event attended by Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya and Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf. The programme, initiated by President Prabowo Subianto, aims to provide free, quality education to underprivileged children, with over 43,000 students now enrolled. Officials highlighted the transformative impact of the initiative, noting significant improvements in students' confidence and academic abilities within a year.

New Step for PRR Task Force: Integrating Watershed, Irrigation, and Rice Field Recovery in Aceh

The Aceh Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Task Force (Satgas PRR) is adopting a thematic, integrated approach to post-disaster recovery, linking the restoration of rice fields, irrigation systems, and watersheds. A recent focus group discussion in Banda Aceh brought together central and local government, the military, and universities to synchronise data and programmes. The initiative aims to ensure that physical rehabilitation translates into restored agricultural productivity by addressing the entire production chain.

Tourism Ministry Records 16.64% Investment Growth in First Half of 2026

Indonesia's tourism sector attracted Rp39.68 trillion in investment during the first half of 2026, a 16.64% year-on-year increase, driven largely by a surge in foreign capital. Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana highlighted the investment's role in creating jobs and new economic growth centres. The growth aligns with a 5.71% rise in foreign tourist arrivals to 7.45 million and a 2.71% increase in domestic trips.

Foundation Reveals How Hundreds of Weapons Were Discovered in South Jakarta School

A school foundation in South Jakarta has detailed the events leading to the discovery of hundreds of airsoft guns, stating the room was locked by the former chairman. The foundation claims it had to formally request access before the room was opened on 10 July 2026. The former chairman's legal representative maintains the weapons were legally owned by a company for a planned extracurricular programme and suggests the issue stems from an internal foundation conflict.

Indonesia's Art Toy Creators Record USD1 Million Potential Deals in Seoul

Indonesian art toy creators secured USD 1 million in potential transactions at URBAN BREAK & TOY CON SEOUL 2026, doubling last year's figure. The strong performance, supported by the Trade Ministry and the Indonesian Embassy in Seoul, highlights the growing global competitiveness of the nation's creative industry. Officials emphasised that the event not only expands market access but also strengthens bilateral economic ties and boosts creative service exports to South Korea.

Berkshire Profit Rises as Abel Begins Deploying Buffett's Giant Cash Pile

Berkshire Hathaway reported a 16% rise in operating profit for the second quarter of 2026, driven by its energy, rail, and manufacturing units. New CEO Greg Abel has begun actively deploying the company's record cash reserves, significantly ramping up share buybacks and becoming a net buyer of equities for the first time in 14 quarters. The moves mark a strategic shift from the cautious approach of his predecessor, Warren Buffett.

JMP Condemns Hoaxes About Jakarta Riots, Warns of Provocation Dangers

The Jurnalis Mitra Polri (JMP) has strongly condemned the spread of hoaxes and provocative narratives regarding potential riots in Jakarta, warning they could disrupt public order and economic stability. The group expressed full support for the Jakarta Metropolitan Police's swift actions, which have included arresting nine suspects and taking down dozens of social media accounts. JMP urged the public to use social media responsibly and cooperate with authorities to maintain security.

PCNU South Tangerang Officially Inaugurated, Sets Seven Service Directions for 2026-2031

The Nahdlatul Ulama Branch Management (PCNU) of South Tangerang City has been officially inaugurated for the 2026-2031 period and has outlined seven key service directions. These priorities include organisational strengthening, community empowerment, economic independence, and educational reform. The new leadership, under Gus Mas'ud, aims to transform NU cadres from passive users into active creators and problem solvers for the next century.

Ministry of Immigration and Corrections Promotes Spirit of Care Through Independence Day Blood Donation

The Ministry of Immigration and Corrections (Kemenimipas) is organising a blood donation drive as part of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations, aiming to collect 1,000 blood bags. The initiative, held in collaboration with the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) and several hospitals, is part of a broader series of social action programmes. Officials emphasised the activity reflects the spirit of mutual cooperation and provides tangible benefits for the community.