Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 10 May 2026

Showing 101-150 of 601 articles

NTB Governor Urges Children in Sumbawa to Preserve the Environment

West Nusa Tenggara Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal engaged with children in Lunyuk subdistrict, Sumbawa, by sharing an interactive story about protecting forests and coastal ecosystems, emphasising the need to safeguard the environment to prevent future damage. He reminisced about the area's lush past and encouraged the children to dream big while highlighting government programmes like free nutritious meals and school revitalisation to ensure equal educational opportunities for all students, regardless of public or private schooling. This initiative underscores the provincial government's commitment to environmental conservation and equitable social development in rural areas.

Germany resumes efforts to purchase Tomahawk missiles from the US

Germany is intensifying consultations with the United States to acquire Tomahawk cruise missiles and the Typhon launcher, as reported by the Financial Times, amid plans for deploying advanced US precision-guided long-range systems in the country starting in 2026. Defence Minister Boris Pistorius is set to travel to Washington to push the proposal, potentially offering to pay a premium to secure the deal, though it hinges on arranging a meeting with his US counterpart. The move has drawn warnings from Russian President Vladimir Putin, who stated that such deployments would prompt Russia to abandon its moratorium on intermediate- and short-range strike systems.

Recruitment of MBG Kitchen Volunteers Suspected of Not Following SOP, Mothers in Bima Rage

Local mothers in Bima, West Nusa Tenggara, have protested against the recruitment process for volunteers at a Makan Bergizi Gratis (MBG) kitchen, alleging violations of standard operating procedures including nepotism and ignoring age and family relation restrictions. The incident, captured in social media videos, highlights concerns over the selection of volunteers from remote areas, with claims that unsuccessful applicants and relatives were hired instead of local residents. This controversy underscores challenges in implementing government nutrition programmes transparently in underserved regions.

TelkomGroup Inaugurates Pukpuk Submarine Cable in Papua

PT Telkom Indonesia, through its subsidiary Telkom International (Telin), has officially launched the Pukpuk Submarine Cable System (Puk-Puk 1) in Jayapura, Papua, marking a significant milestone in enhancing digital connectivity in eastern Indonesia and establishing a new digital corridor linking the country to Papua New Guinea and the Asia-Pacific region. This pioneering cross-border cable strengthens telecommunications resilience in the region, with the Jayapura landing station serving as a gateway to Papua New Guinea's Kumul network, and provides an alternative connectivity route that boosts service reliability through redundancies connected to global networks. Attended by high-level officials including the Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs, the launch underscores national priorities for inclusive digital transformation and bilateral collaboration, positioning eastern Indonesia as a hub for digital economic growth.

Array of Law Enforcement Officials and Officials Attend Professional Peradi Inauguration

The Professional Indonesian Advocates Association (Peradi) for the 2026–2031 period was officially inaugurated in Jakarta, attended by high-ranking officials including representatives from the Corruption Eradication Commission, Ministry of Law and Human Rights, Financial and Development Supervisory Agency, Attorney General's Office, and National Police. Led by Harris Arthur Hedar, the new leadership emphasised that the organisation addresses contemporary needs rather than internal conflicts, focusing on adapting to technological advancements and complex legal dynamics to build a modern, intellectually robust, ethical, and justice-oriented advocates' body. Deputy Minister of Law Edward Omar Sharif Hiariej highlighted the regulated role of advocates in the criminal procedure code, underscoring their importance in supporting parties during legal processes.

Religious Affairs Minister: Pindapata is not merely a religious tradition but a life lesson

Indonesia's Minister of Religious Affairs, Nasaruddin Umar, attended the National Pindapata event as part of the Vesakha Sananda celebrations, emphasising that the Buddhist tradition of alms-giving serves as a profound life lesson in sincerity, compassion, and letting go, beyond mere religious observance. The event, themed 'Treading the Noble Path to Contribute to the Nation', drew around 75 Theravada bhikkhus and 10,000 Buddhist devotees, highlighting spiritual practices that foster societal harmony and service. Bhikkhu Subhapanno Mahathera underscored Pindapata's role in cultivating moral virtue, mental steadfastness, and wisdom, urging the community to avoid evil and promote a harmonious national life.

Indonesian national in Hayam Wuruk online gambling case previously worked in Cambodia

Indonesian police have revealed that an Indonesian citizen arrested in an international online gambling network at Hayam Wuruk Plaza Tower in Jakarta previously worked in Cambodia before returning to work in the city. The individual is confirmed to have served as a customer service representative in the operation, with authorities continuing to investigate their exact role. The raid resulted in the arrest of 320 foreign nationals from various countries and this one Indonesian, highlighting ongoing efforts to dismantle cross-border gambling syndicates.

ASDP's 53rd Anniversary: Pioneer Ferry Services Grow 11 Percent

PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry marked its 53rd anniversary by reporting an 11 percent growth in pioneer ferry services and a 15 percent increase in vehicle transport to over 556,000 units in 2025, while maintaining ship accident rates below the company target of 0.230 percent at 0.220 percent. The celebration included a Charity Run event, with proceeds supporting social programs like life jacket donations, orphanage aid, and mangrove planting to enhance maritime safety and environmental conservation. These achievements underscore ASDP's role in bolstering national connectivity, economic growth, and public service reliability amid operational challenges.

Saudi Aramco's Profits Surge 26 Percent Amid Hormuz Strait Crisis

Saudi Aramco reported an adjusted net profit of $33.6 billion for the first quarter of 2026, marking a 26% increase from the previous year, driven by global energy supply disruptions from the Iran conflict and a 95% surge in Brent crude prices over the quarter. The company's East-West pipeline, operating at full capacity of 7 million barrels per day, proved crucial in maintaining oil distribution despite the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. This robust performance, exceeding analyst expectations, underscores the vulnerability of the global energy system amid escalating geopolitical tensions, with Aramco also approving a 3.5% higher quarterly dividend of $21.9 billion.

Padang City Government Ensures No Child Drops Out of School

The Padang City Education and Culture Department has reaffirmed its commitment to preventing any child from dropping out of school due to economic barriers, exemplified by swift action to assist two students from a private madrasah facing payment arrears for tuition and uniforms. The city government provided direct aid to the students at their orphanage and facilitated their transfer to a new school, in line with the Padang Juara flagship programme aimed at reducing the non-enrolment rate to zero. This responsive measure, overseen by the Ombudsman for transparency, underscores the local administration's dedication to accessible education for all children.

Regent ensures Bangli's anniversary celebration does not use regional budget funds

The Regent of Bangli, Sang Nyoman Sedana Arta, has confirmed that the 822nd anniversary celebrations of Bangli Regency will not utilise funds from the regional budget, in line with directives from the President and Bali's Governor to promote fiscal efficiency and avoid lavish state-funded events. Financing will instead rely on voluntary contributions from the community and private sector, while the event maintains high public enthusiasm through simple cultural displays like decorative penjor bamboo ornaments. Looking ahead to 2026 development priorities, the regency is focusing on education and health initiatives, including land grants for educational facilities, support for specialised medical training, and upgrades to hospital equipment with Ministry of Health assistance, underscoring a commitment to public welfare rooted in cultural heritage.

Waste Sorting Movement Officially Launched, DPRD Requests RT Facilities to be Equipped

The Jakarta Provincial Government has officially declared the Waste Sorting Movement, mandating residents to separate waste into organic, inorganic, hazardous (B3), and residual categories. Judistira Hermawan, Chairman of the DPRD's Special Committee on Waste Management, welcomed the initiative but stressed that its success depends on providing adequate facilities at the neighbourhood (RT) level, beyond mere blue bins. The Golkar Party faction in the DPRD plans to push the Environment Agency to ensure all neighbourhoods receive proper sorting bins to support source-separated waste management.

For Hajj Pilgrims' Safety, Ajyad Terminal Implements Open-Close Scheme

The Ajyad Terminal in Makkah has introduced an open-close door system to ensure the safety of Indonesian Hajj pilgrims during peak prayer times, addressing previous issues with unregulated bus boarding due to inadequate infrastructure. Officials coordinate bus loading by route order and temporarily close doors when capacity is reached, aiming to prevent overcrowding and panic. This efficient measure, which evacuates pilgrims in under an hour, is part of ongoing efforts to synchronise schedules and improve operations for smoother pilgrim transport.

Cianjur Regency Requests West Java Provincial Government Assistance to Address Flooding in Highland Areas

The Cianjur Regency Government is coordinating with the West Java Provincial Government to tackle flooding in the region's highland areas through spatial planning evaluations and upstream watershed management. Bupati Mohammad Wahyu Ferdian highlighted that the conversion of land from hardy crops like coffee and tea to vegetable farming has reduced soil absorption capacity, leading to increased flood risks and erosion that affects downstream villages. This collaborative effort aims to restore environmental governance and ecosystem balance, building on provincial initiatives to incentivise farmers to replant trees for natural conservation.

Police hand over 320 foreign nationals in Hayam Wuruk online gambling case to Ministry of Immigration

Indonesian Police have transferred 320 foreign nationals arrested in connection with an international online gambling syndicate operating from Hayam Wuruk Plaza Tower in Jakarta to the Directorate General of Immigration under the Ministry of Immigration and Correctional Services. The suspects, comprising individuals from Vietnam, China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Malaysia, and Cambodia, are being held in immigration detention facilities in South and West Jakarta pending further investigation. This operation highlights ongoing efforts to combat cross-border cybercrime, with one Indonesian national also detained for additional questioning.

Tourism Soars in 2026: Foreign Tourist Arrivals Reach 1.09 Million and Economy Grows

Indonesia's tourism sector demonstrated robust performance in the first quarter of 2026, with foreign tourist arrivals surging to 1.09 million in March, a 10.50% increase from the previous year, and cumulative arrivals for January to March rising by 8.62%. Average spending per foreign visitor also climbed 5.36% to approximately Rp 22.87 million, contributing significantly to the national economy, which grew by 5.61% year-on-year, with tourism accounting for 4.01-5.00% of that growth. This positive trend, bolstered by domestic travel and a tourism surplus of 0.94 million visits, underscores the sector's resilience and global competitiveness, as highlighted by Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana.

Prabowo's Promise of Major Investments to Improve Fishermen's Welfare

President Prabowo Subianto has pledged substantial government investments to enhance the livelihoods of Indonesian fishermen, starting this year with the construction of 1,386 Merah Putih Fishermen's Villages across the nation, including facilities like cold storage and dedicated fuel stations. During visits to Miangas Island in North Sulawesi and Gorontalo, he announced the distribution of 1,582 fishing vessels to local cooperatives to empower domestic fishermen and prevent foreign vessels from exploiting Indonesia's marine resources. This initiative underscores a commitment to the blue ocean economy, aiming to sustainably manage and benefit from the country's vast maritime wealth.

Disruption in Strait of Hormuz Triggers Loss of 1 Billion Barrels of Global Oil

Saudi Aramco's CEO Amin Nasser has revealed that the world has lost approximately 1 billion barrels of oil in the past two months due to supply disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz caused by Iran's blockade amid the US-Israel war. He emphasised that reopening the shipping route will not immediately restore the energy market, which has been strained by years of underinvestment in the oil and gas sector leading to low global reserves. Nasser highlighted the critical role of alternative pipelines to the Red Sea in maintaining vital energy flows during the crisis.

TNI deploys additional personnel to assist in search and evacuation of Mount Dukono eruption victims

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has dispatched additional personnel to support the ongoing search and evacuation efforts for victims of the Mount Dukono eruption in North Halmahera, North Maluku, following orders from the Army Chief of Staff. Out of 20 hikers affected, including 11 Indonesians and nine foreigners, 17 have been rescued while three fatalities have been confirmed, with operations involving TNI, police, Basarnas, and local communities amid persistent volcanic activity. The response underscores the military's commitment to humanitarian operations, prioritising safety and community support without necessitating evacuations of nearby residents.

FSGI Demands Guarantee of Decent Salaries for Honorary Teachers Upon PPPK Appointment

The Indonesian Teachers' Union Federation (FSGI) has urged the government to ensure fair salaries for honorary teachers transitioning to PPPK status by 2027, following the ban on non-ASN teachers in public schools after 30 December 2026 under the Civil Service Law. FSGI highlights the annual retirement of 70,000 PNS teachers causing a staffing crisis and warns that local budgets will bear the primary financial burden, potentially exacerbating issues in regions affected by central government efficiency measures. Concerns also arise over the fate of unrecorded honorary teachers and the misalignment between fiscal and academic calendars, which could lead to shortages at the start of new school years.

Measuring Bureaucratic Resilience in the Survival Mode Era

This article examines the challenges facing Indonesia's civil service bureaucracy amid fiscal constraints projected for 2026, including delayed 13th-month salaries and shift work implementations that are leading to demotivation and quiet quitting among public servants. It proposes strategic reforms such as overhauling the E-Kinerja performance evaluation system to prioritise actual outcomes over mere attendance, investing in digital competency development, and enhancing fiscal transparency to foster adaptation and efficiency. By drawing on international examples like Singapore's pay-for-performance model, the piece argues that these pressures present an opportunity for a leaner, more innovative bureaucracy that ultimately strengthens public service delivery.

BCA Records 7.7% Growth in Green Credit, Renewable Energy Becomes Main Driver

PT Bank Central Asia Tbk (BCA) reported a 7.7% year-on-year increase in green financing, reaching Rp113 trillion as of March 2026, primarily driven by a 53.5% surge in renewable energy sector lending. Overall sustainable financing grew 10% to Rp258.4 trillion, representing 26% of BCA's total loan portfolio, while total credit disbursements rose 5.6% to Rp994 trillion. Supported by robust funding sources, BCA achieved a 4.3% profit increase to Rp14.7 trillion in the first quarter of 2026 and was ranked as Indonesia's top bank in Forbes' World's Best Bank list.

Video: Lucrative Profits, Shipping Issuer Expands into Offshore Oil and Gas

PT Cakra Buana Resources Energi Tbk (CBRE), a shipping company, is aggressively expanding its offshore oil and gas support business to capitalise on promising opportunities. The firm is pursuing a rights issue to raise up to Rp 1.91 trillion, with funds earmarked for acquiring offshore vessels to boost performance, while aiming for 60% of its portfolio to come from offshore operations without abandoning its mining sea transport segment. This strategic shift underscores the growing allure of Indonesia's offshore energy sector for listed maritime firms.

Google AI Overview Now Displays Real Human Opinions and Reviews

Google has updated its AI Overviews search feature to incorporate more human-like responses by introducing the "Expert Advice" function, which pulls in direct advice, opinions, and experiences from real internet users for practical queries. This enhancement aims to make AI answers less rigid and more contextual, with examples including pet care recommendations and photography tips sourced from forums, complete with transparent links to original discussions. By prioritising user-favourite media links, embedding references to combat AI hallucinations, and adding related article recommendations, Google seeks to enhance search utility and connect users directly with diverse web sources and creators.

Vietnam Masters the Art of Attracting Foreign Tourists, Leaving Indonesia Worried

Vietnam is shifting its tourism strategy from focusing on visitor numbers to boosting spending per capita and repeat visits through premium services, infrastructure upgrades, and targeted marketing, aiming for 25 million international arrivals and Rp741.7 trillion in revenue by 2026. This transformation, highlighted by high-end offerings like helicopter tours and luxury resorts, poses a competitive challenge to Indonesia's tourism sector. The success of unique attractions such as Son Doong Cave underscores Vietnam's growing edge in the regional tourism market.

Ambassador urges Indonesian students in Tunisia to build the nation's civilisation

Indonesia's Ambassador to Tunisia, Zuhairi Misrawi, has called on Indonesian students in the country to study diligently and engage in major movements like Muhammadiyah, which played a key role in Indonesia's independence and progress. Speaking at a dialogue organised by the Indonesian Students' Association (PPI) Tunisia and the Muhammadiyah Special Branch in Tunisia, alongside UMY Rector Achmad Nurmandi, Zuhairi emphasised education as a pillar of national advancement and the need to broaden knowledge for building Indonesian civilisation. Achmad Nurmandi stressed that students should study not only religious sciences but also contemporary fields like management, digital technology, and humanities to actively contribute to Indonesian and global contexts.

BPJPH Discusses Halal Product Cooperation with Bangladesh

The Indonesian Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) has engaged in discussions with Bangladesh's Ambassador to enhance cooperation on halal certification, aiming to facilitate mutual recognition of halal products and expand market access ahead of Indonesia's mandatory halal certification implementation in October 2026. BPJPH Head Ahmad Haikal Hasan emphasised that this collaboration strengthens the global halal ecosystem based on standards, trust, and inter-country partnerships, ensuring smooth international trade flows and consumer protection for Muslim communities. The meeting underscores Indonesia's strategic efforts to position itself as a global halal hub through international synergies.

Prabowo's Maung Transported by TNI AU Airbus A400M to the Philippines

President Prabowo Subianto made his inaugural use of the domestically produced Maung MV3 Garuda Limousine during the 48th ASEAN Summit in Cebu, Philippines, where the vehicle was transported from Indonesia aboard a TNI Air Force Airbus A400M aircraft. This deployment highlights Indonesia's advancing defence industry and national self-reliance, with the Maung symbolising the country's strategic capabilities on the international stage. Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya emphasised that the vehicle's presence transcends mere transport, serving as a diplomatic emblem of Indonesia's industrial progress and confidence in regional forums.

Police to Trace Sponsors Behind Arrival of 321 Foreign Nationals at Hayam Wuruk Online Gambling Hub

Indonesian police are investigating the funding sources and sponsors who brought 321 foreign nationals to an online gambling operation in Jakarta's Hayam Wuruk area, where the suspects were arrested. The operation involved coordination with the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center (PPATK) and the Ministry of Immigration to uncover potential additional crimes. The foreign nationals have been transferred to immigration facilities for further examination, highlighting ongoing efforts to dismantle illegal gambling networks in the country.

Metro Jaya Police Chief Supports Waste Sorting Initiative to Make Jakarta More Comfortable

The Metro Jaya Police Chief, Inspector General Asep Edi Suheri, has endorsed the Waste Sorting Movement launched by the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government as part of the city's 499th anniversary celebrations. This initiative follows Governor Pramono Anung's Instruction No. 5 of 2026, mandating waste separation at the source in households, offices, and businesses to address the growing waste volume at the Bantargebang landfill. The effort highlights the need for community involvement alongside government and police synergy to foster environmental awareness and ensure a cleaner, more comfortable Jakarta.

Women as Frontline Guardians of the Environment and Strengthening Digital Literacy

The National Forum of Indonesian Women highlights the strategic role of women in preserving ecological resilience through direct involvement in family food management, water, household energy, and community-based economies, as stated by Sri Handayaningsih from the Ministry of Environment and Forestry. Discussions at the forum, themed "Safeguarding National Resilience," also emphasise women's contributions to watershed management, forest rehabilitation, and non-timber forest products to boost community economies sustainably. Additionally, experts stress the need for women to lead in enhancing national digital literacy to combat challenges like hoaxes, cyberbullying, and data exploitation, calling for collaboration across government, academia, business, and communities for sustainable development.

MSMEs in Disaster-Affected Areas Bounce Back, Recording 13 Million E-Commerce Transactions

Data from the Disaster Recovery Task Force (Satgas PRR) indicates a significant 77% surge in e-commerce transactions by micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra, reaching over 13 million by 8 May, compared to late April figures. This recovery aligns with the accelerated distribution of economic stimulus aid, totalling nearly Rp 320.69 billion, with 98% already disbursed to disaster survivors to support their livelihoods. Spokesperson Amran emphasised that economic rehabilitation, including MSME revival, KUR credit distribution, and market repairs—now nearly complete at 100% in West Sumatra, 98% in North Sumatra, and 89% in Aceh—remains a top priority for full regional recovery.

Prabowo: Smart People in Jakarta Do Not Care About Fishermen's Fate

President Prabowo Subianto criticised the indifference of Jakarta's elite towards the struggles of coastal fishermen during a visit to Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih in Gorontalo, pledging greater government attention to improve their welfare and honour their vital role. He highlighted the risks fishermen face at sea and committed to preventing foreign vessels from exploiting Indonesia's waters, instead empowering local communities through the construction of 1,582 fishing boats managed by cooperatives. This initiative forms part of a broader push for the 'blue ocean economy' to harness maritime potential, enhance coastal livelihoods, and bolster national economic sovereignty.

Roles of 320 Foreign Nationals as Admins in Hayam Wuruk Online Gambling Hub, from Telemarketing to Debt Collection

Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim Polri) has uncovered the operations of an online gambling syndicate in a building on Jalan Hayam Wuruk, West Jakarta, where 320 foreign nationals served in roles ranging from telemarketing and customer service to administration and debt collection. One Indonesian national was also arrested for acting as a customer service representative, with further investigations underway into seized computers and devices. The foreign nationals have been handed over to immigration authorities, while the Indonesian suspect is detained at Bareskrim, highlighting ongoing efforts to dismantle illicit gambling networks in Indonesia.

MBG Task Force Reminds SPPG to Promptly Complete Requirements

In Bangkalan Regency, East Java, the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) Programme Task Force has urged operators of Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) to quickly fulfil operational requirements, as only 112 out of 179 kitchens are currently operational due to missing permits and registrations. Additionally, 68 units lack permanent kitchen facilities, hindering full implementation of the programme, which aims to benefit 328,000 individuals including schoolchildren, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and non-Preschool toddlers across 273 villages and eight urban villages in 18 sub-districts. The task force is coordinating with relevant agencies to expedite solutions, underscoring the government's priority on this initiative to combat malnutrition.

Governor: Central Kalimantan Needs Additional Fuel Depots to Maintain Supply Stability

The Governor of Central Kalimantan, Agustiar Sabran, has urged Pertamina to build an additional fuel terminal in the eastern zone of the province to ensure a stable and sustainable supply of fuel across its three zones. Currently, the western zone has two terminals in Sampit and Pangkalan Bun, the central zone has one in Pulang Pisau, but the eastern zone, covering districts like East Barito, South Barito, North Barito, and Murung Raya, lacks any. This initiative aims to address distribution gaps and prevent panic buying, with Pertamina's regional manager emphasising ongoing coordination and investment considerations for better coverage.

OJK Summons KoinP2P Shareholders

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has summoned the management and shareholders of PT Lunaria Annua Teknologi (KoinP2P) amid a corruption case involving three executives who have been named as suspects for allegedly causing a Rp 600 billion insurance payout from BRI through falsified analyses. OJK is taking multiple steps, including demanding commitments to resolve lender obligations, conducting thorough audits and evaluations of operations, and imposing compliance enforcement and administrative sanctions to ensure business continuity and protect public services. This intervention underscores the regulator's efforts to maintain the health of Indonesia's online lending industry, particularly for SME financing, while the Jakarta prosecutor's office continues investigating potential involvement of other parties.

One Indonesian Citizen Involved in International Online Gambling Syndicate in Hayam Wuruk, West Jakarta

Indonesian police have uncovered an international online gambling syndicate operating from an office in Hayam Wuruk, West Jakarta, arresting 321 individuals including one Indonesian citizen who previously worked in Cambodia. The Indonesian national is suspected of serving as a customer service representative, while the majority of detainees are foreign nationals with roles such as telemarketers and admins. Authorities are continuing investigations into the network's owners, sponsors, and facilitators in collaboration with immigration officials and the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center, underscoring the police's commitment to eradicating gambling operations in Indonesia.

Indonesia Shares Experience on Press Council with Malaysia

Indonesia and Malaysia exchanged experiences on their respective press councils during the Media Solidarity Festival 2026 in Selangor, with Indonesia's Press Council member Abdul Manan highlighting the role of self-regulation in enhancing news quality, ethical standards, and protection. Malaysia's Majlis Media Malaysia (MMM), established just a year ago, is promoting its functions to the public and has already handled over 600 complaints related to journalistic content, shifting from direct disputes to institutional mediation. This collaboration underscores the importance of independent media regulation in fostering accountability and public understanding in both nations.

Homes, Pharmacy, and Shops Damaged Due to Clashes Between Residents of Two Villages in East Flores

Clashes between residents of Narasaosina and Waiburak villages in East Flores, NTT, resulted in 12 buildings being severely damaged or burned, including 10 homes, a pharmacy, and a shop, over the weekend of 9-10 May 2026. A combined force of 157 TNI and police personnel was deployed to secure the area, with the local police chief urging calm, reliance on authorities, and peaceful resolution through community leaders to maintain stability and brotherhood. The incident underscores the importance of dialogue and unity in addressing local conflicts to ensure public safety and social harmony in the region.

Acquittal of eight bankers and efforts to maintain the banking image

The Semarang Corruption Court convicted three Sritex executives of corruption in obtaining loans worth Rp1.3 trillion from regional banks, sentencing them to 10-14 years in prison and ordering substantial restitution for state losses and money laundering. In a contrasting verdict, eight former executives from Bank BJB, Bank Jateng, and Bank DKI were acquitted of charges related to the improper granting of these credits. This outcome highlights ongoing efforts to safeguard the reputation of Indonesia's banking sector amid high-profile corporate fraud cases.

PPIH Ensures No Hajj Pilgrims or Luggage Left Behind During Transfer from Madinah to Makkah

The Hajj pilgrimage organising team (PPIH) has confirmed that over 50,000 Indonesian pilgrims have been transported from Madinah to Makkah since 30 April 2026, with no pilgrims or luggage left behind, thanks to meticulous coordination and daily checks. Challenges such as narrow roads and excess baggage from shopping are managed by advising pilgrims to prepare luggage eight hours in advance and use cargo services for additional items, while special assistance is provided to elderly pilgrims. This efficient operation underscores Indonesia's commitment to smooth religious services, minimising disruptions through inter-team collaboration.

Jakarta Produces 8,000 Tonnes of Waste Daily, Environment Minister Supports Waste Sorting Initiative

Indonesia generates 141,000 tonnes of waste daily, with 75% currently managed effectively, while Jakarta alone contributes 8,000 tonnes per day. Environment Minister Jumhur Hidayat has endorsed Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung's Waste Sorting Movement, launched in line with gubernatorial instructions, and urged its nationwide adoption as part of a forthcoming two-year national waste management roadmap. This initiative positions Jakarta as a leader in waste handling, potentially influencing national policies through synchronised efforts.

Festivities of DKI Jakarta's 499th Anniversary, Featuring Ardhito Pramono to Lenong Betawi

The 499th anniversary celebrations of DKI Jakarta kicked off with inclusive morning exercises and cultural performances, including a Lenong Betawi show and a performance by musician Ardhito Pramono, while highlighting urban sustainability initiatives. Governor Pramono Anung presented a roadmap to phase out open dumping at TPST Bantargebang by August 2026 and discussed the transformation of Jalan H.R. Rasuna Said into a new iconic corridor inspired by national heroine Hajjah Rangkayo Rasuna Said. The event underscored Jakarta's commitment to becoming a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable global city through integrated government, diplomatic, and private sector efforts in transport and waste management.

Bahlil Shocked as Indonesia's Foreign Exchange Reserves Drain Rp150 Trillion on LPG Imports

Indonesia's Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has expressed shock over the annual expenditure of Rp120-150 trillion in foreign exchange on importing liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), a dependency that burdens the nation's reserves and escalates energy subsidies, which rose from Rp67.6 trillion in 2021 to Rp87 trillion in 2025. Highlighting that over 75% of national LPG needs are imported, Bahlil advocates for converting domestic resources to replace imports and improve subsidy efficiency. The government is advancing a Dimethyl Ether (DME) project from low-calorie coal to reduce reliance, though experts note challenges in economic viability and the need for subsidies to make it competitive with LPG.

Polri: Arrest of 321 Foreign Nationals to Prevent Indonesia Becoming Hub for Online Gambling Syndicates

Indonesian National Police (Polri) arrested 321 foreign nationals operating an online gambling ring in Jakarta, emphasising that the action is crucial to prevent Indonesia from becoming an international hub for such illicit activities and scams. The operation aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's Astacita programme to combat digital and transnational crimes, with the suspects transferred to immigration facilities for further processing. This crackdown highlights the broader societal and economic harms of online gambling, underscoring Polri's commitment to sustained law enforcement in collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

Portrait of 'Make America Great Again' Fireworks, Turns Out Made in China

Chinese fireworks manufacturers are experiencing a surge in demand from the United States ahead of the 4 July Independence Day celebrations, following the easing of trade war tensions between the two nations. Products featuring Donald Trump's image, the American flag, and slogans like 'Make America Great Again' are being produced in Liling, China, ironically highlighting the ongoing economic interdependence despite Trump's campaign promises to repatriate manufacturing jobs. US import tariff reductions have boosted orders by 15-30%, with China accounting for about two-thirds of global fireworks exports valued at US$1.14 billion last year.

Disdik: Kepri Short of Around 1,500 Teachers, Especially in Batam

The Kepulauan Riau Education Office reports a shortage of approximately 1,500 teachers across 280 schools in seven regencies/cities, with the need most acute in densely populated Batam, where each school requires five to six additional educators. This deficit is driven by the annual influx of junior high graduates entering senior high schools, vocational schools, and special needs institutions, prompting the mapping of requirements for submission to the regional personnel agency for phased civil servant recruitment. To enhance educational access, particularly in remote areas like Natuna, the provincial government is constructing ten new school units, while the central government funds eight more with Rp8 billion each.

Bantargebang TPST to Accept Only Residual Waste from August 2026

Indonesia's Environment Minister Jumhur Hidayat has announced that the Bantargebang TPST will only accept residual waste starting 1 August 2026, urging the public to adopt waste sorting habits from home to reduce landfill burdens. The Jakarta Provincial Government is praised for its roadmap to end open dumping, including community-led sorting initiatives in areas like Rorotan Kelurahan, positioning Jakarta as a national pioneer in sustainable waste management. This policy shift highlights the importance of collaborative efforts among government, businesses, and residents to foster a culture of waste separation, potentially transforming national environmental practices.

Companies Committed to ESG Recover Faster from Crises

In the face of Indonesia's intertwined global crises, companies with strong commitments to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles are better protected and demonstrate shallower financial declines compared to competitors, according to Jalal, Chairperson of the Advisory Board of Social Investment Indonesia. These firms not only bounce back more quickly once the crisis subsides but can even achieve superior performance, embodying an 'antifragile' quality as described in Nassim Nicholas Taleb's work. Treating ESG as an investment rather than a cost enables businesses to rethink strategies for efficiency without reducing targets, viewing crises as tests of sustainability.