Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 9 August 2026

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Bali Museums Deploy Travelling Exhibitions and Social Media to Woo Young Visitors

Museum authorities in Bali are implementing innovative outreach programmes, including travelling exhibitions and storytelling sessions, to engage local students with the island's history. This push comes as visitor numbers, particularly among the youth, have seen a notable decline from 2024 to 2025.

Video: Securing Liquidity Needs, This is How Pension Funds Manage Investments

Indonesia's pension fund association outlines its strategy for navigating a high-interest-rate environment by prioritising prudent investment in instruments like government bonds and Bank Indonesia securities. The approach aims to balance attractive returns with managed volatility, while synchronising investment duration with future pension payout obligations. Despite market challenges, the sector remains optimistic about solid performance in 2026.

5 Characteristics of Lower-Class Citizens, Do Any Apply to You?

President Prabowo Subianto recently highlighted the decline in extreme poverty in Indonesia at the World Economic Forum in Davos. This article outlines five key indicators, ranging from housing and employment to savings and education access, that often distinguish lower and lower-middle-class economic groups. While not absolute measures, these factors provide a broader picture of financial vulnerability beyond just income levels.

School Boundary Wall Collapses in Sleman, Injuring 10 During Independence Day Walk

A boundary wall at a state primary school in Sleman, Yogyakarta, collapsed onto a group of residents participating in an Independence Day walk, injuring ten people. The wall, dating from around 1980, was found to lack adequate foundations and reinforcing steel. The local government has pledged to cover the victims' medical expenses and the education agency will rebuild the wall with a stronger construction.

DIY Fisheries Agency Optimises Village Land for Catfish and Tilapia Farming

The Yogyakarta Special Region's Marine and Fisheries Agency (DKP DIY) is utilising village-owned land to develop catfish and tilapia farming. The initiative, supported by a central government thematic aquaculture programme, aims to address limited land and water resources while potentially supplying the national free nutritious meals scheme.

Shopee Package Warehouse, Plastics, and Spare Parts Storage Burn in Tangerang

A major fire broke out at a warehouse complex in Kosambi, Tangerang, on Sunday, destroying a Shopee package storage facility and adjacent warehouses containing plastics and motorcycle spare parts. The Tangerang Regency Disaster Management Agency deployed 11 fire engines and 60 personnel to battle the blaze, which is believed to have been triggered by an electrical short circuit. No casualties have been reported, though the financial cost of the damage remains unassessed.

Bandung DPRD Tightens Oversight on Regional Hospital and Inspectorate Building Construction

The Bandung City Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD) is intensifying scrutiny of the construction of a new regional public hospital (RSUD) and the Regional Inspectorate building. A focus group discussion identified key risks, including legal, technical, and budgetary concerns, to prevent delays and cost overruns. The council emphasised that robust collaboration and early mitigation are essential for the successful delivery of these strategic public service projects.

Pertamina Launches Public Information Integration to Enhance Services

State-owned energy giant Pertamina has officially launched an integrated public information service, reinforcing its commitment to transparency and responsiveness. The initiative, inaugurated alongside the Central Information Commission, consolidates all official communication channels to provide faster and more accurate information. The move aims to strengthen public trust through improved governance and collaboration across the entire Pertamina Group.

When Umar Chased a Stray Camel: A Lesson in Leadership and Public Trust

A historical account highlights the leadership of Caliph Umar bin Khattab, who personally chased a stray camel belonging to the Baitul Mal (public treasury). He viewed the animal as an asset of the people and believed it was his duty to safeguard public property, demonstrating a profound commitment to accountability and service.

Indonesia and Iran Strengthen Cultural Cooperation Through Film and Literature

Indonesia and Iran have agreed to bolster cultural ties by expanding cooperation in film, literature, and heritage. The commitment was made during a bilateral meeting between their culture ministers on the sidelines of the XI BRICS Culture Ministers' Meeting in India. Both nations plan to renew their cultural exchange programme and explore joint film productions and book fair participation.

KPK Seizes PUPR Project Documents and CCTV in Case Against Pemalang Regent

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized project documents and CCTV footage during raids across 15 locations in Central Java, intensifying its investigation into non-active Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro. The seized evidence relates to infrastructure projects at the Public Works and Spatial Planning (PUPR) office and is part of a broader probe into alleged extortion. The case also involves a separate cluster of suspects, including a police officer stationed at the KPK, accused of extorting the regent.

DKI Jakarta Launches 'Pelopor KITA' Programme to Strengthen Traffic Safety Culture

The DKI Jakarta Transportation Agency has launched the 'Pelopor KITA' programme to enhance traffic safety awareness and orderly conduct among road users. The initiative involves four main pillars targeting students, online motorcycle taxi drivers, public transport crews, and other community elements. A total of 726 people have registered for the programme, which aims to create role models who can influence their communities.

DKI Jakarta Sets Public Transport Fare at Rp1 for Independence Day

The Jakarta provincial government will charge a flat fare of Rp1 for all its public transport services on 17 August to celebrate the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence. Governor Pramono Anung announced the policy as a gift to residents, aiming to encourage the use of public transport during the national holiday. The initiative is part of broader efforts to improve mobility and public welfare ahead of the city's 500th anniversary in 2027.

Illegal Parking Attendant Who Forced Payment and Challenged Motorist to Duel in Tambora Tests Positive for Drugs

An illegal parking attendant in Tambora, West Jakarta, who went viral for coercing a motorcyclist into paying a car parking fee and challenging him to a duel, has been arrested. Police revealed the man was using expired permits and tested positive for amphetamines. He is currently being held for further investigation.

How to Clean Up a Bad Credit History in OJK's SLIK System

A poor credit score in Indonesia's Financial Information Service System (SLIK) can hinder loan applications. The Financial Services Authority (OJK) clarifies that records are updated after debts are settled, not instantly erased. Borrowers must repay outstanding obligations and obtain a letter of settlement to restore their credit standing.

Houthis Strike Aramco Oil Refinery in Jizan in Retaliation Against Saudi Arabia

Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi group claimed responsibility for a drone attack on a Saudi Aramco oil facility in Jizan, stating it was in retaliation for Saudi drone incursions. The Saudi energy ministry confirmed a fire at the refinery was brought under control without casualties, amid a broader collapse of the 2022 ceasefire and rising regional maritime tensions.

Forest and Land Fires in West Kotawaringin Expand to 10 Hectares, Threaten Iskandar Airport

Forest and land fires in Sungai Tendang Village, West Kotawaringin Regency, Central Kalimantan, have spread to an estimated 10 hectares. Firefighting efforts are being hampered by dry peatland conditions and strong winds, with the blaze approaching Iskandar Airport in Pangkalan Bun. Authorities are also investigating the cause of the fire and have urged residents to refrain from slash-and-burn land clearing during the dry season.

South Jakarta School Foundation Denies Weapon Discovery Linked to Founder Conflict

A South Jakarta school foundation has denied allegations that the discovery of nearly 1,000 airsoft guns on its premises stems from an internal conflict among its founders. The foundation's legal team insists there is no dispute among the founders and aims to refocus the school on its educational mission. Meanwhile, a lawyer for a former chairman claims the weapons were legally owned and stored for a planned extracurricular programme, suggesting the controversy was manufactured after a unilateral dismissal of a foundation patron.

Suspicion of Spat Coffee Leads Security Guard to Stab Wajo KPU Employee

A security guard at the General Elections Commission (KPU) office in Wajo Regency, South Sulawesi, has been arrested for stabbing a staff member. The attack was allegedly triggered by the guard's suspicion that the victim had spat in his coffee. Police have taken the suspect into custody and are conducting further investigations.

Kowani Holds Fun Walk to Promote Tempe as UNESCO Cultural Heritage

The Indonesian Women's Congress (Kowani) organised a 10,000-step fun walk in Jakarta to promote the 'Tempe Indonesia Goes to UNESCO' movement. Chairwoman Nannie Hadi Tjahjanto emphasised tempe's potential not only as a traditional food but as a broad economic ecosystem supporting farmers, SMEs, and women's livelihoods. She stressed the urgency of securing UNESCO recognition to preserve the tradition amid its growing global popularity.

70 Personnel Deployed to Strengthen Electricity Network in Gunungkidul Ahead of Independence Day

State electricity company PLN has deployed 70 personnel to carry out integrated maintenance on the distribution network in Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta, ahead of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations. The 'Super Kips Tawon' programme involves tree trimming, equipment replacement, and construction improvements to prevent outages. A local resident welcomed the initiative, noting it significantly reduces the risk of power cuts during windy weather.

Dayak Wehea Indigenous Community Awaits Formal Recognition After 14-Year Wait

The Dayak Wehea community in East Kalimantan is on the verge of formal recognition as an indigenous legal community after a 14-year struggle. Their deep spiritual connection to the forest, which they view as a mother, has driven their long-standing stewardship of the land. The process is now in its final stages, with document finalisation underway following a technical verification in 2024.

Myanmar Rejects ASEAN's Call for Unconditional Release of Aung San Suu Kyi

Myanmar's military-backed government has dismissed ASEAN's latest appeal for the unconditional release of deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi, arguing it interferes with the country's internal legal processes. The junta also stated that the regional bloc no longer needs a special envoy for Myanmar, asserting that the current administration has consolidated power following the 2021 coup. This stance comes amid ongoing international concern over Suu Kyi's health and the broader civil conflict that has engulfed the nation.

ESG Increasingly Considered in Business, Investment and Financing Decisions

Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles are becoming a crucial factor in investment and financing decisions, moving beyond mere regulatory compliance. The Kehati Foundation emphasises that a company's future success will depend on its ability to create economic value while delivering positive environmental and social impact. This shift is influencing capital flows, with institutional investors and banks now integrating sustainability factors into their risk assessments and funding allocations.

Bukit Duabelas National Park: A Harmony of Nature and Tradition

Bukit Duabelas National Park in Indonesia stands as a rare conservation model that integrates biodiversity protection with the recognition of indigenous rights. Established partly to safeguard the Orang Rimba people from encroachment, the park preserves not only the forest but also the community's deep spiritual and cultural connection to their environment. Their traditional practices, such as the 'Tali Bukit' forbidden forest zones, represent a sophisticated, community-based approach to sustainable landscape management.

Thousands of Bogor Residents Parade 500-Metre Red and White Flag

Thousands of residents in Bogor, West Java, participated in a parade carrying a 500-metre-long Red and White flag as part of the 11th Festival Merah Putih. The event, which Bogor's mayor described as a tradition to foster nationalism, also attracted participants from other cities. West Java's regional secretary noted the parade serves as a reminder to continue the nation's development by reducing poverty and improving public welfare.

Jakarta tax services to continue despite major Bapenda building fire

A major fire at Jakarta's Regional Revenue Agency (Bapenda) building has caused extensive damage, but Governor Pramono Anung assures that tax collection and administrative services will continue without disruption. All tax data remains secure due to full digitisation, and the operations of approximately 1,000 civil servants will be temporarily relocated to maintain public services.

BPOM Urges Vigilance Over MinyaKita After Shutting Down Producer in Karanganyar

Indonesia's Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) has warned the public to be alert to cooking oil with abnormal odours after a producer in Karanganyar was shut down. The closure of PT Kusuma Mukti Remaja followed the discovery that its MinyaKita product, distributed as part of a government food aid programme, smelled of kerosene or diesel. BPOM confirmed the product failed to meet safety standards and has ordered a recall while coordinating with law enforcement over potential criminal violations.

Bali's Struggle for Independence Immortalised at Bajra Sandhi Monument

The Bajra Sandhi Monument in Denpasar stands as a testament to the Balinese people's resistance against Dutch colonialism, featuring a poignant collection of historical photographs and dioramas. Among the exhibits is a letter from Lieutenant Colonel I Gusti Ngurah Rai rejecting the Dutch presence, alongside 62 photographs documenting the struggle from the 1906 Puputan war to the independence era. The monument, inaugurated in 2003, serves as both an educational site and a cultural landmark, offering visitors panoramic views of the city from its upper floor.

Indonesia's Advance Team Maps Out Venue and Transport Challenges for 2026 Asian Games

An Indonesian advance team led by Chef de Mission Todotua Pasaribu has arrived in Nagoya to assess logistical challenges for the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games. The team is focusing on the wide distribution of 53 venues and the transport systems connecting them, aiming to ensure athletes' conditions are not compromised by travel issues. Coordination with local organisers and meetings with national sports federations are underway to finalise preparations for the September event.

KPK Seizes Documents After Searching 15 Locations in Pemalang Regent Extortion Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized documents and electronic evidence after searching 15 locations across four regions in Central Java. The searches, conducted from 5 to 8 August 2026, relate to the alleged extortion case involving non-active Pemalang Regent Anom Widiyantoro. The seized materials include project documents from the Public Works and Spatial Planning Office and CCTV footage from a Magelang hotel, which will be analysed to strengthen the case.

Tensions Flare Among Worshippers at Pura Tangkas Kori Agung, Management Cites Miscommunication

Hundreds of worshippers arriving for a mass prayer at Pura Tangkas Kori Agung in Klungkung, Bali, were met with a locked gate, sparking tension. The temple's secretary attributed the incident to a miscommunication related to ongoing construction, denying any internal conflict. Police mediated the situation, allowing the worshippers to eventually enter and pray peacefully.

Danantara Partners with JBS Group, Prepares US$2.5 Billion Investment

Danantara Indonesia, through its investment arm, has entered a long-term strategic partnership with global protein producer JBS Group. The deal involves a US$2.5 billion investment for a 25 per cent stake in a new joint venture managing JBS's operations in Australia and New Zealand. The partnership aims to fund acquisitions and greenfield investments across Indonesia, Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand.

Transport Ministry Strengthens Intercity Bus Oversight to Build Safety Culture

The Indonesian Ministry of Transportation is intensifying its supervision of intercity and interprovincial bus services to foster a sustainable transport safety culture. Data-driven monitoring across 115 terminals revealed that over half of departing bus journeys in early 2026 had indications of violations, including route deviations and expired permits. The ministry aims to use these findings to improve operator compliance and ensure passenger protection.

Imported Soybean Prices in Kudus Decline Despite Rupiah Volatility

The price of imported soybeans in Kudus, Central Java, has fallen to Rp10,400 per kilogram from Rp10,800, despite recent rupiah depreciation against the US dollar. Local cooperative Primkopti reports ample stockpiles of 70 tonnes, while domestic harvests in Pati offer an alternative. Authorities continue to monitor price fluctuations to ensure consumer affordability.

South Jakarta School Where 996 Weapons Were Found to Implement Temporary Distance Learning

A private school in Pondok Pinang, South Jakarta, will switch to distance learning for one week after nearly a thousand airsoft guns were discovered on its premises. The school's legal representatives are urging police to conduct a thorough sterilisation of the site to ensure student safety. The weapons' owner claims they were stored legally for a planned extracurricular programme and suggests the discovery is linked to an internal foundation conflict.

South Jakarta School Foundation Demands Proof of Claimed Weapons for Extracurricular Activity

A school foundation in Pondok Pinang, South Jakarta, has challenged claims that hundreds of airsoft guns found on its premises were linked to an approved extracurricular activity. The foundation's legal representative argued that the elderly patron allegedly involved was 104 years old at the time and would have had limited capacity to approve such a programme. The weapons' owner, a shooting association company, maintains the items were legally permitted and stored at the school following a stalled cooperation agreement.

KPK Searches Homes of Bengkulu Officials in Rejang Lebong Project Bribery Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has conducted a series of searches in Bengkulu as part of an expanding investigation into alleged bribery related to infrastructure projects. The searches targeted the homes of a city council secretary and a provincial food security agency head, resulting in the seizure of documents and electronic devices. The case stems from the earlier arrest of the Rejang Lebong regent and has since widened to include suspected corruption in Bengkulu City.

BPBD Tackles Bromo Tourist Area Fire with Water Bombing

The Lumajang Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) is intensively combating forest and land fires in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, focusing on hotspots near the B29 peak tourist area. Firefighting efforts involve ground teams creating firebreaks and aerial water bombing using two helicopters. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and the national park remains closed to tourists.

Ministry of Human Rights: BPJS Patients Are Not Second-Class Citizens

The Ministry of Human Rights has condemned discriminatory treatment and lack of empathy towards BPJS Kesehatan patients in Indonesian healthcare facilities. The ministry issued a circular mandating all government health service units to uphold four key human rights principles, including non-discrimination based on insurance status. The directive reinforces that the right to health is a fundamental right protected by the state for all citizens equally.

Pertamina Strengthens Fisheries Mentoring to Boost Coastal Welfare

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga is intensifying its community development programme in Batam's Kampung Tua Terih to enhance the economic value of marine products. The initiative has successfully increased the average income of local fishermen and women's groups by approximately 40 per cent. The programme also contributes to environmental sustainability through mangrove rehabilitation and significant carbon emission reductions.

Pramono Wants Persija to Win League Title as Gift for Jakarta's 500th Anniversary

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has expressed his strong desire for Persija Jakarta to clinch the league title in the 2026/2027 season, viewing it as a fitting gift for the city's upcoming 500th anniversary in 2027. He believes the appointment of coach Shin Tae-yong boosts the club's chances and sees the team's success as a source of immense social capital. The governor also aims to promote Jakarta as a sports tourism destination, while Bank Jakarta announced a collaboration with the club alongside the launch of its new digital platform.

Gerindra: 'Oke' Rating for Prabowo's Two-Year Performance Not a Unilateral Claim

Gerindra Party spokesperson Sugiat Santoso has asserted that President Prabowo Subianto's 'oke' assessment of his administration's two-year performance is based on objective reflection and public satisfaction. He cited a survey showing 63% public approval and highlighted economic resilience and improved investment management as key indicators. Santoso cautioned that the positive evaluation should motivate ministers to enhance their effectiveness and remain open to public scrutiny.

Night Fire on Mount Rinjani, TNGR Deploys Joint Team

A fire broke out at Mount Rinjani National Park in East Lombok on Friday night, affecting an estimated 30 hectares of land. A joint team of 22 personnel managed to bring the blaze under control by the early hours of Saturday morning. The cause of the fire remains unknown and is under investigation.

Ngagurah Dano Tradition Returns to Banten, Mass Fishing Becomes Cultural Tourism Attraction

The annual Ngagurah Dano mass fishing tradition has returned to the Cidanau River in Banten, drawing participants who catch fish using only their bare hands and traditional tools. Held during the dry season, the ritual serves as an expression of gratitude for nature's abundance and water resources. The event also aims to preserve local wisdom while boosting cultural tourism in Cikolelet Village.

Khofifah Affirms East Java as a 'Storehouse of Ulama' and Promotes 'Tafaqquh Fiddin'

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has emphasised the province's role as a centre for Islamic scholars while encouraging a movement for deep religious understanding across various professions. Speaking at a graduation ceremony, she highlighted the provincial government's commitment to supporting higher religious education through extensive scholarship programmes. The governor also expressed hope that graduates would become experts capable of addressing modern challenges in development and technology.

Lumajang BPBD Rapid Response Team Tackles Forest Fire in Bromo Tourist Area

The Lumajang Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) deployed its rapid response team to combat a forest and land fire in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. The fire affected the popular tourist area of Puncak B29, with ground crews creating firebreaks and receiving aerial support from water-bombing helicopters. Authorities are still investigating the cause and assessing the total area burned.

Foundation Founder Speaks Out, Expresses Sadness Over Weapons Discovery at South Jakarta School

Yan Sofyan Syafe'i, a founder of a private school foundation in South Jakarta, has expressed his sadness following the discovery of 996 weapons in a room used by the foundation's former chairman. The weapons, claimed to be licensed airsoft guns belonging to a company planning a shooting extracurricular programme, were reportedly stored at the school since 2020. The legal representative for the former chairman suggests the issue has surfaced due to an internal conflict within the foundation's management.

Jatma Aswaja to hold national remembrance ahead of Indonesia's 81st Independence Day

PB Jatma Aswaja is organising a national prayer and remembrance event at Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta to mark Indonesia's 81st Independence Day. The gathering, expected to draw over 50,000 participants, aims to strengthen national values and interfaith harmony. It will feature young religious leaders from various faiths, reflecting a collective moral commitment to the nation's unity.

UAE to Bring Business Delegation to Indonesia to Optimise Trade Pact

The United Arab Emirates plans to send a business delegation to Indonesia to maximise the benefits of the bilateral Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. The move was discussed during a meeting between trade ministers on the sidelines of the BRICS Trade Ministers' Meeting in India. Both nations are committed to resolving outstanding implementation issues and boosting trade, which saw Indonesia record a surplus in 2025.