Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 8 September 2026

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Lampung's Radin Inten II Airport Reopens amid Krakatau Ash

AirNav Indonesia has reopened Radin Inten II Airport in Lampung along with four other airports affected by volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau, including facilities in Tangerang, South Tangerang and Banten. Reopenings follow updated NOTAM notices based on shifts in ash dispersal patterns, though monitoring continues as ash clouds are still detected across flight sectors. Pilots have been advised to remain cautious during arrival and departure procedures, with periodic ash tests at affected airports yielding negative results.

Bapanas: Government Strengthens SPHP Supply to Serve Markets and Retail

The Indonesian government has added one million tonnes to the medium-rice allocation under the Food Supply and Price Stabilisation (SPHP) programme to bolster supplies during the El Nino dry season. The National Food Agency (Bapanas) is prioritising distribution through people's markets and modern retail, alongside cheap food movements and a reactivated rice price and quality monitoring task force. Rice inflation stood at 0.42 percent month-on-month in August, remaining within the government's tolerance range.

Police Close Three Illegal Class C Quarries in Bima

The Special Crime Unit of the Bima Police in West Nusa Tenggara has shut down three unlicensed Class C quarry sites across three villages. The action, based on the 2020 Mining Law amendment, was taken to protect the environment and prevent landslides and other impacts of illegal mining.

18 Children Victims of Human Trafficking to Singapore, PPPA Ministry Oversees Legal Process

The Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection (PPPA) is closely monitoring the handling of an alleged human trafficking case involving babies from West Java sent to Singapore under the guise of illegal adoption. Eighteen child victims are currently abroad, whilst authorities foiled the departure of seven others, and 19 perpetrators have already been convicted.

Central Kalimantan continues to push forest fire handling and clean water distribution

The Central Kalimantan provincial government has mobilised 10,700 combined personnel, six helicopters and a weather modification aircraft to combat forest and land fires during the ongoing dry season. It has also distributed more than 635,850 litres of clean water to drought-affected villages across several regencies as of 5 September 2026.

Sleman Health Office reveals investigation results into health complaints linked to free nutritious meal programme

The Sleman District Health Office, together with Turi Community Health Centre and UGM's Field Epidemiology Training Programme, has investigated suspected health complaints following consumption of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. Of 261 respondents, 35 reported health complaints, with 204 having consumed the meals, and distribution has been temporarily suspended at affected locations pending further investigation.

Andrew Andika Reveals Losses from Suspected Business Fraud

Actor Andrew Andika told investigators at Bogor Regency Police that he too was a victim of an alleged fraud and embezzlement scheme involving the business partner of Ridho Illahi, sustaining losses of under Rp 50 million. Ridho's lawyer claims there is evidence of criminal intent, with funds from multiple victims transferred to the suspect's account, and called for the police to act swiftly. The case stems from an investment offer covering grouper and crab farming as well as a mobile phone business, in which promised returns and the return of capital never materialised.

Study: Aerobic Exercise Helps Preserve Mental Sharpness in Women After Menopause

A study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease has found that aerobic exercise can help maintain and improve cognitive abilities in post-menopausal women. Participants who did aerobic exercise four days a week for six months performed better on cognitive tests than those who only did stretching and muscle-toning exercises, particularly in executive function.

Thousands of Students in Subang Protest Over Alleged Sexual Abuse by Deputy Headmaster of SMAN 1

Some 1,445 students at SMAN 1 Pamanukan in Subang, West Java, staged a protest demanding action against a deputy headmaster, initialled AT, who is alleged to have sexually harassed around 15 female students. The suspect was taken into police custody after tensions flared when he reportedly attempted to flee the school grounds. The case has been handed to the Women and Children Protection Unit at Subang Police, where investigations continue as more victims may come forward.

Video: Banker Reveals Credit Prospects and Liquidity Through to End of 2026

Standard Chartered's Cluster CFO for Indonesia & ASEAN Markets, Dina Middin, discusses the outlook for Indonesia's banking sector through to late 2026. She highlights positive growth prospects underpinned by strong domestic consumption and government programmes, while noting that volatile global interest rates are prompting the private sector to hold back on credit expansion.

Renoir Museum Robbery: Three Paintings Missing

Two thieves broke into the Renoir Museum in Cagnes-sur-Mer on the French Riviera early on Tuesday and made off with three paintings, abandoning a fourth as they fled; the four works were valued at around €9 million. The heist follows a series of high-profile art thefts across Europe, with Europol noting that opportunistic gangs, often assembled via social media, are replacing specialist crews drawn by the low-risk, high-profit nature of museum robberies.

Government: Regulation to Accelerate 100 GWp Solar Power Plants Still Under Inter-ministerial Discussion

The government is still harmonising a presidential regulation to accelerate the development of 100 gigawatt peak (GWp) of solar power plants, with discussions ongoing between ministries and agencies. Elen Setiadi, Deputy for Energy and Mineral Resources Coordination at the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs, said the regulation is crucial to ensure the programme runs in a directed and optimised manner. President Prabowo Subianto has targeted completion within three years to secure Indonesia's energy independence and achieve cost efficiencies of up to Rp73.9 trillion.

Indonesia secures $198M in potential seafood deals at Tokyo expo

Indonesia secured $198 million in potential seafood trade deals at a Tokyo expo, with strong Japanese demand for tuna, octopus, squid and processed fish products. Officials credit improved market access under the revised Indonesia-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement, which eliminates tariffs on Indonesian processed fish exports. The deals build on existing momentum, as Indonesia's processed seafood exports to Japan rose 29.05 per cent year-on-year to $45.81 million in the first half of 2026, with tuna and skipjack accounting for nearly 90 per cent of shipments.

Hands-on with the Galaxy S26 FE, Samsung's 'Affordable' Flagship Priced from Rp 11 Million

Samsung has launched the Galaxy S26 FE in Indonesia starting at Rp 11.99 million. A hands-on review highlights its 7.4mm design, Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection, and the debut of the AI-powered My FanCam feature on the FE line. The device is powered by an Exynos 2500 chipset and comes with a promise of seven years of OS and security updates.

Mayors urged to find solutions to reckless JakLingko drivers

A NasDem member of the Jakarta DPRD's Commission A has called on the city's five administrative mayors to hold coordination meetings to address complaints about reckless JakLingko drivers. Ongen Sangaji said the behaviour, found across nearly all of Jakarta, has unsettled and frightened public transport users. He also questioned why drivers pursue passenger targets aggressively given the service receives regional budget incentives.

PAG Reveals Long-Term Business Plans, Including the Andaman Block

PT Perta Arun Gas (PAG) has unveiled a long-term business plan to transform Arun into a global integrated energy hub, encompassing LNG, LPG, condensate, fuel oil and carbon capture storage. The plan includes new LNG storage tanks, fuel and LPG tank revitalisation, a gas processing plant and petrochemical facilities, and positions PAG as a key counterparty for onshore and offshore activities at the Andaman Block.

NasDem Legislator Eva Stevany Clarifies After Being Listed in Decile 4

NasDem party legislator Eva Stevany Rataba has denied ever receiving assistance from the Family Hope Programme (PKH) after her name was reportedly listed in decile 4 of the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN). She has questioned the matter in a meeting of Commission X of the House of Representatives with Statistics Indonesia (BPS) and visited the North Toraja Social Services Office to demand verification and correction of the data. She urged the incident to serve as a moment to improve the accuracy and transparency of the social assistance data system.

Houthi attack wounds 73 civilians in southern Saudi Arabia

At least 73 civilians were wounded when Yemen's Houthi movement attacked cities and economic infrastructure in southern Saudi Arabia, according to the Saudi-led military coalition. The strikes targeted civilian and commercial facilities in Abha, Khamis Mushait, Jazan and Najran, prompting Riyadh to pledge all necessary operational measures in response. The escalation, alongside renewed fighting on multiple fronts and Houthi attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea, has raised fears of a return to full-scale conflict in Yemen.

7 Catastrophes Strike the Earth in One Month: Powerful Earthquakes, Flash Floods and Krakatau

The world has faced a string of natural disasters over the past month, from a devastating 7.4-magnitude earthquake in Colombia to flash floods in Nepal that killed over 1,000 people. Indonesia has also been affected, with the continuous eruption of Anak Krakatau disrupting hundreds of flights across the region, whilst extreme weather linked to a Super El Niño raises further risks.

Anticipating Volcanic Ash from Mount Anak Krakatau, Bekasi City Implements Online Learning Until Tomorrow

Bekasi City has ordered all state and private schools to conduct distance learning following the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau, to protect students and teachers from volcanic ash exposure. The first day of remote learning at SMP Negeri 14 experienced network disruptions due to 26 classes connecting simultaneously, though lessons continued. Meanwhile, Bekasi Regency has kept face-to-face teaching whilst issuing health protection guidelines for schools.

Iran Condemns Canada for Backing US Military Action in the Strait of Hormuz

Iran's Foreign Ministry has sharply criticised Canada for supporting US military action in the Strait of Hormuz, calling Ottawa's stance a reflection of strategic confusion and submission to intimidation. The rebuke comes amid deteriorating Canada-US trade relations, whilst Iran has also warned South Korea against any military involvement in the strait.

Marine corps from multiple nations hone ground combat skills in Super Garuda Shield

Marine personnel from Indonesia, the United States, Japan and South Korea conducted ground combat training at Brigif 4 Mar/BS in Lampung as part of the Super Garuda Shield 2026 joint exercise. The drill, involving 4,743 personnel from 21 countries, aims to test operational readiness and strengthen defence diplomacy across the region. The exercise is being held across several Indonesian locations and will close in Jakarta on 11 September 2026.

AirNav Indonesia puts Jarkompenas into operation to strengthen national communications

AirNav Indonesia has commenced operations of the National Aviation Communication Network (Jarkompenas), marked by the signing of a Fit for Operation Statement (BALO) in Surabaya. The network, built with the Jasnikom–XL Smart consortium, serves as the digital backbone for Indonesia's air navigation services and enables global standards such as System Wide Information Management (SWIM).

After Successful Test of New Missile Against US Aircraft Carrier, Iran Changes Doctrine: Strike the Enemy First

Iranian state media announced that a newly upgraded ballistic missile has successfully struck a US aircraft carrier, signalling a shift in Tehran's military doctrine towards pre-emptive action against perceived threats. The IRGC claimed the attack, reportedly involving the solid-fuel Qasem Basir missile, damaged a US carrier and destroyer enforcing a maritime blockade, and warned of a 'heavier' response should American military action continue.

51 Pandeglang Residents Contract ARI Following Anak Krakatau Volcanic Ash

Volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau has caused 51 residents of Labuan District in Pandeglang to contract acute respiratory infection (ARI). The local community health centre has distributed masks and advised residents to limit outdoor activities, whilst schools and posyandu have been temporarily closed as a precaution.

Rupiah strengthens on rising Indonesian foreign exchange reserves

The rupiah strengthened 8 points to Rp17,632 per US dollar at Tuesday's close, driven by Indonesia's rising foreign exchange reserves. Analyst Ibrahim Assuabi of Laba Forexindo Berjangka said Bank Indonesia recorded reserves of US$146.5 billion at the end of August 2026, up from US$145.3 billion a month earlier.

Know the Risk Factors for Hepatitis and Early Prevention Measures

Hepatitis B and C remain serious health threats, causing around 1.3 million deaths globally in 2024 from complications such as cirrhosis and liver cancer. The WHO and CDC stress that vaccination, early screening and behavioural changes are key to prevention, whilst Indonesia's Ministry of Health warns that the majority of sufferers are unaware they are infected.

Judge Questions Witness Statement Contradicting KPK Testimony Record on Funds Linked to Yaqut

The examination record (BAP) of KPK witness Ridwan Kurniawan came under scrutiny at the Jakarta Corruption Court during the trial over the alleged corruption in the 2023–2024 additional hajj quota. Ridwan told judges that his BAP contained no mention of Yaqut Cholil Qoumas receiving USD 271,500, contradicting earlier claims linking the former Religious Affairs Minister to the funds. The defence argues the connection arose solely from notes on a whiteboard seen by the witness, making the BAP a key point of contest in the trial.

Forest and land fires in Ijen Nature Park begin to subside

Forest and land fires in the Ijen Crater Nature Tourism Park on the border of Banyuwangi and Bondowoso regencies, East Java, have gradually subsided, particularly along trekking routes. Water-bombing helicopters from the East Java disaster agency and ground teams conducting mopping-up operations are working to prevent further spread across the dry terrain.

Japan's Q2 2026 GDP Growth Revised Up to 1.4 Per Cent

Japan's economy grew at an annualised real rate of 1.4 per cent in the April-June 2026 quarter, revised up from an initial estimate of 1.1 per cent. The improvement was driven mainly by capital expenditure, with business investment falling less than first forecast, whilst private consumption was unchanged.

In Court, KPK Prosecutors Present Photo of Meeting Between Fuad Maktour and Yaqut

KPK prosecutors presented a photograph in court showing a meeting between the SATHU Forum and PT Makassar Toraja (Maktour) chief Fuad Hasan Masyhur alongside former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, in the trial over the alleged corruption of additional hajj quotas for 2023–2024. Witness Ridwan confirmed details from his examination deposition, including the alleged distribution of 20,000 additional quotas split between regular and special hajj schemes. The case is alleged to have caused state losses of Rp622 billion.

After Two Suspected Poisoning Incidents, SPPG in Patalan, Bantul Halted

A nutrition service unit (SPPG) in Patalan, Jetis, Bantul, has been temporarily suspended after 50 pupils and three teachers at SDN 1 Sumberagung were suspected of suffering food poisoning from the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. This is the second suspected poisoning incident linked to the same SPPG, following a similar case in April 2026. The Bantul regional administration is urging the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) to take firmer action and consider a longer suspension.

Scientists propose survey of the entire Antarctic coastline

An international team of 80 scientists, including researchers from Australian institutions, has proposed a comprehensive geophysical survey of Antarctica's entire coastal region to improve predictions of future sea-level rise. The project, named 'RINGS around Antarctica', will track ice flow, grounding zones and seaward ice sheets to identify key processes driving ice loss. The findings carry significant implications for coastal planning and for low-lying nations, including Australia's Pacific neighbours.

78th Anniversary of Policewomen: South Sumatra Police Chief Urges Improved Competence and Integrity

The Chief of South Sumatra Regional Police, Inspector General Sandi Nugroho, urged policewomen to enhance their competence, uphold integrity and deliver real impact to communities during the 78th anniversary celebration of Indonesian policewomen. He emphasised that policewomen are not merely complementary members but essential contributors to the police force, and called for a solid "superteam" built with male officers.

No More Diesel Imports: Indonesia's Foreign Exchange to Rise by Rp 170 Trillion This Year

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources projects a Rp 170 trillion boost to foreign exchange reserves in 2026 following the cessation of diesel imports, driven by the mandatory B50 biodiesel programme. The initiative is expected to create 2.1 million jobs and add Rp 20.92 trillion in value to the domestic palm oil industry. Around 90% of petrol stations nationwide are already distributing B50.

Saudi Arabia reports fires at energy facilities following Houthi attack

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Energy reported fires at several energy facilities in the country's south after attacks targeting the sites, forcing a temporary halt to some operations. At least 73 civilians, including women and children, were wounded in the Houthi assaults on cities including Abha and Najran. The escalation threatens to end a period of relative calm since April 2022 and raises fears of a return to full-scale conflict.

Civil servant payroll at regional development banks serves as cheap funding source for the real sector

Bali's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has stated that regional civil servant payroll channelled through regional development banks (BPD) provides cheap funds supporting BPD liquidity and real-sector financing. The statement comes amid union concerns over a reported policy to shift payroll for agricultural extension workers and teachers to state-owned banks, which the Finance Minister denied. OJK urged BPDs to improve services and diversify funding sources beyond civil servant deposits.

Uber launches first robotaxi service in London

Uber has launched its first robotaxi service in London in partnership with British autonomous vehicle firm Wayve, using Ford Mustang Mach-E cars fitted with Wayve's self-driving technology. Passengers booking UberX, Uber Comfort or Uber Electric may be matched with an autonomous vehicle, with a human supervisor required on board under the licence granted last month. The partnership is set to continue, with plans to introduce autonomous Nissan vehicles in Tokyo.

Finland completes 200 km barrier fence on border with Russia

Finland has completed the construction of a 200 km barrier fence along parts of its more than 1,300 km border with Russia, according to Interior Minister Mari Rantanen. The €356 million project includes 4.5-metre-high fences, technical surveillance systems and road networks. The minister indicated further sections could be built in future if needed.

Danantara Urges Himbara to Open Bank Accounts for Social Assistance Recipients

Danantara Indonesia, BP BUMN and the state-owned banks' association Himbara are pushing to open bank accounts for Indonesians in deciles 1–6, prioritising direct disbursement of social assistance through banking channels. Around 15 million of the 18.5 million beneficiary families already receive aid via bank accounts, with the remainder still served by PT Pos Indonesia. The initiative, following President Prabowo Subianto's directive, also leverages the Desa/Kelurahan Merah Putih cooperatives and agency banking models such as BRILink to expand financial inclusion.

AHY Says Power Has Its Limits — Here Is Gerindra Spokesman's Response

Gerindra spokesman Bahtra Banong has welcomed remarks by Democratic Party chairman Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) that power is a trust with a time limit. Bahtra stressed that Gerindra's focus remains on delivering President Prabowo Subianto's priority programmes, whilst adding that any coalition party is free to contest the next presidential election.

In Anticipation of Mount Anak Krakatau's Impact, Sukabumi City Government Continues Online Learning

The Sukabumi City Government has imposed online learning across all education levels, from early childhood to junior secondary, as a precaution against health risks from volcanic ash emitted by Mount Anak Krakatau. The policy, effective since Monday, is situational and coordinated with regional education authorities, whilst residents have been urged to limit outdoor activities and wear masks.

Sunway Medical Centre Sunway City Strengthens ASEAN Healthcare Capabilities

Sunway Medical Centre (SMC) Sunway City is reinforcing its role as a quaternary referral hospital for patients across South-East Asia, including Indonesia, as non-communicable diseases in the region are projected to rise sharply by 2050. Indonesian patients account for more than 50% of SMC's international volume, prompting the hospital to offer comprehensive support services from pre-arrival coordination to medical evacuation. The hospital's expansion, including the new Tower F with dedicated paediatric capacity, aligns with the ASEAN Health Sector Work Programme 2026-2030's emphasis on stronger regional health cooperation.

Saudi Arabia Furious as Houthi Attack Wounds 73

The Saudi government has condemned drone and missile attacks by the Iran-backed Houthi rebel group that wounded 73 people and struck energy facilities in the kingdom's south. The attacks, which caused fires and temporary shutdowns of operations including Aramco installations in Abha and Jizan, come amid days of fighting near the Red Sea coast that has killed more than 300 people.

House of Representatives calls for optimal handling of health impacts from Mount Anak Krakatau eruption

Achmad Ru'yat, a member of Commission IX of the Indonesian House of Representatives, has urged the government to optimise healthcare responses for communities exposed to volcanic ash from the Mount Anak Krakatau eruption. He called for cross-agency coordination, including between the Health Ministry and the National Disaster Management Agency, to address respiratory, eye and skin health risks.

Slashed with a Cutter and Bent Backwards: Here's the Condition of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8

YouTuber Zack Nelson of JerryRigEverything subjected Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8, priced above Rp30 million, to extreme durability testing including scratches and reverse bending. The outer screen resisted scratches up to level 6 on the Mohs scale, and although the rear glass detached during the bend test, the main flexible display continued to function fully. The results reinforce the device's position as one of the most durable foldable phones on the market.

Purbaya Directly Monitors SPPG, Says MBG Budget Could Be Cut If Governance Not Fixed

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has deployed Treasury Directorate General staff across Indonesia to directly monitor the governance of SPPG kitchens under the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. He warned that the Finance Ministry could automatically cut the programme's budget if reported problems are not acted upon by the National Nutrition Agency. Purbaya also praised BGN chief Sudaryono for driving efficiency, with this year's requirement falling from an initial Rp 330 trillion to potentially below Rp 200 trillion.

National Customer Day 2026: Pertagas Strengthens Services and Energy Infrastructure Reliability

PT Pertamina Gas (Pertagas) marked National Customer Day 2026 by reporting a Customer Satisfaction Index of 4.46, up 2.53 per cent year-on-year and placing it in the 'Very Satisfied' category. The company, which operates nearly 3,000 kilometres of gas pipelines and 605 kilometres of oil pipelines, reported strong distribution figures for the first half of 2026, with gas deliveries reaching 1,606 MMSCFD and oil 151,881 BOPD. Officials stressed that infrastructure reliability and continuous dialogue with customers remain central to supporting national energy security.

Block B of Putri Cempo Landfill Still Burning, 105 Residents Displaced

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) reported that 105 residents remain at an evacuation centre in GOR UTP, Plesungan Village, due to smoke from the fire at the Putri Cempo landfill in Surakarta, Central Java. Whilst Blocks C and D have been declared safe, Block B is still burning and the joint task force aims to extinguish it within seven days. Authorities are also preparing a weather modification operation as a contingency measure.

US Investigates Deadly Air Strike on Iranian Wedding Party

The US Department of Defence is investigating whether an American bomb that missed its target struck a wedding party in southern Iran, killing at least four people including two children. Iranian authorities say the attack, part of the heaviest exchange of strikes between the two countries since July, also wounded 68 people, and the Iranian Red Crescent has called for an independent investigation at the International Criminal Court.