Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 12 May 2026

Showing 751-800 of 1,617 articles

MRT Bundaran HI-Kota Tua Targeted for Completion in 2029, Here Are Its 7 New Stations

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has set a target for the MRT Jakarta Phase 2A project along the Bundaran HI to Kota Tua route to be fully operational by the end of 2029, enhancing north-south connectivity across 22.2 kilometres from Lebak Bulus to Kota. The line will feature seven new underground stations, with the initial segment from Bundaran HI to Harmoni expected to commence operations by late 2027, followed by extension to Kota Tua. Current construction progress stands at 59.7 per cent, involving land acquisition and route finalisation, while the first segment of the East-West MRT is anticipated to be ready by 2030.

PTFI Strengthens the Economic Foundation of Central Papua, Promoting Sustainable Growth

PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI) has significantly transformed Central Papua over the past 5-10 years by creating jobs, enhancing education and healthcare access, and fostering local businesses, with local Papuan workers now comprising 40.9% of its workforce. Through partnerships with over 400 local entrepreneurs and investments in infrastructure like roads, electricity, and clean water, PTFI is building a sustainable economic ecosystem that extends beyond mining operations. The company's long-term social programmes aim to empower communities, preserve the environment, and ensure lasting economic independence for the region.

Election Bill Not Included in DPR's Priority Discussions for This Session

House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani announced four priority bills for the DPR's fifth session from 12 May to 21 July 2026, excluding the revision of the 2017 Election Law (RUU Pemilu). While inter-faction discussions on the election bill continue informally and formally, no progress was disclosed amid approaching 2029 election timelines, with preparations needing to start by mid-2027 to ensure fair and honest polls. Commission II member Ahmad Doli Kurnia Tandjung highlighted the urgency due to impending Constitutional Court rulings and the risk of delays in electoral processes.

Satgas PASTI Halts Magento, OJK Warns of Impersonation Investment Scams

The Satgas PASTI task force has shut down the operations of Magento, an entity suspected of running an illegal investment scam by impersonating Adobe Inc.'s legitimate Magento Commerce software product. The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has urged the public to be vigilant against offers promising high commissions and quick returns, highlighting the risks of digital investment frauds that misuse credible foreign company names. This action underscores Indonesia's intensified regulatory efforts to protect consumers from unlicensed financial activities and prevent financial losses through coordinated enforcement and public reporting mechanisms.

Absorbing 3,800 Construction Workers, Gibran Appreciates Jakarta MRT Project

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has commended the Jakarta MRT Phase 2A project from Bundaran HI to Kota for employing up to 3,800 construction workers, emphasising their hard work in meeting the timeline. Accompanied by key officials including the Governor of DKI Jakarta and the Minister of Transportation, Gibran highlighted the project's role in fostering synergy between provincial and central government to deliver safe, comfortable, modern, and integrated transport, aligning with President Prabowo Subianto's priorities. The project has reached 59.76% completion as of 25 April 2026, with segments to Bundaran HI-Monas slated for operation by late 2027 and full extension to Kota Station by 2029.

Average Prices of Mining Commodities Rise, Here's the Proof

The Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has recorded significant increases in the average Reference Mineral Prices (HMA) for key mining commodities including copper, silver, nickel, and tin in early 2026 compared to 2025. Copper prices averaged 12,655.16 US$/dmt, silver 79.27 US$/toz, nickel 16,822.29 US$/dmt, and tin 51,101.46 US$/ton, reflecting upward trends that have pushed royalty rates to their highest intervals under PP 19/2025. This surge underscores the strengthening global demand for these resources and its positive implications for Indonesia's mining sector revenue.

WFH Policy Deemed Ineffective in Reducing Fuel Consumption

The Indonesian government's policy urging private sector companies to implement one day of work from home (WFH) per week has been criticised as ineffective in curbing fuel oil (BBM) consumption, particularly due to its limited applicability in labour-intensive industries. Labour union leaders, including Said Iqbal of KSPI and Mirah Sumirat of Aspirasi, argue that WFH is feasible only for office-based white-collar workers and could harm productivity if forced upon factory settings, while also raising concerns over potential violations of working hours. This initiative, aimed at conserving energy amid rising global oil prices from Middle East conflicts, highlights challenges in balancing fiscal pressures with worker protections.

Two Former Pertamina Executives Sentenced to 6 Years in Prison in Crude Oil Case

Two former high-ranking executives of PT Pertamina, Alfian Nasution and Hanung Budya, have been sentenced to six years in prison by the Jakarta Central Corruption Court for their involvement in a corruption case concerning the management of crude oil and refinery products from 2018 to 2023. Each was also fined Rp1 billion, with the possibility of additional imprisonment if unpaid, highlighting the judiciary's firm stance against corruption in state-owned enterprises amid the government's anti-corruption drive. The verdict, which is not yet final, underscores ongoing efforts to combat financial losses to the state in the energy sector.

Deputy Health Minister: Free health checks target 19 million people in January-April 2026

Indonesia's free health check (CKG) programme has reached approximately 19 million people from January to April 2026, with 1.16 million receiving treatment and disease management status. Launched in February 2025, the initiative aims to screen 70 million individuals in its first year to enable early detection of conditions like hypertension, tuberculosis, diabetes, and nutritional issues, ultimately seeking to cover the entire population to prevent costly treatments. The programme highlights significant healthcare savings, as expenses for dialysis have surged from Rp2.3 trillion in 2020 to Rp13.4 trillion this year, underscoring the importance of preventive care under the BPJS system.

Following Constitutional Court Ruling, Attorney General Issues Circular Allowing State Loss Calculations Beyond BPK

The Attorney General's Office (AGO) has issued a circular clarifying that state financial loss calculations can be performed by entities other than the Financial Audit Board (BPK), in response to a Constitutional Court (MK) ruling that identified BPK as the primary 'state financial audit body' under Article 603 of the Criminal Code. The circular, addressed to regional prosecutors, references prior MK decisions and anti-corruption laws permitting involvement from bodies like the Financial and Development Supervisory Agency (BPKP), government inspectorates, and certified public accountants, aiming to prevent misinterpretation and ensure continuity in corruption probes. This development underscores ongoing tensions in interpreting judicial rulings on corruption accountability mechanisms in Indonesia.

Viral Video of Jember Legislator Smoking During Meeting, DPRD Chairman Assures Action Will Be Taken

A video has gone viral showing a Jember DPRD legislator smoking and appearing to play a game on his phone during a formal meeting on healthcare services, prompting public outrage. The meeting, attended by health officials including the Jember Health Department and BPJS Kesehatan, highlighted the legislator's apparent disregard for decorum. DPRD Chairman Ahmad Halim has apologised on behalf of the leadership and promised to process the incident with warnings and sanctions to uphold institutional ethics.

Summoned by Prabowo to the Palace, Cak Imin to Report Expansion of UMKM-SMK Go Global

Muhaimin Iskandar, known as Cak Imin, met with President Prabowo Subianto at the Presidential Palace to report on key initiatives under his role as Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment, including poverty alleviation, job creation, and boosting UMKM productivity. He highlighted the '1001 people's market points' programme to expand market access for small businesses, alongside subsidies for training and increased KUR financing, with 1,000 UMKM in Bali set to receive loans the following day. Additionally, the SMK Go Global programme is expanding, providing training and support to vocational graduates, particularly from the poorest regions, to meet global job demands.

Intelligence Findings in the Prison System Behind the Case of 145 Inmates Involved in Love Scamming Exposed

Indonesian police have uncovered a major love scamming operation involving 145 inmates at Kotabumi Class IIB prison in Lampung, where 156 mobile phones were seized for conducting online fraud. The scam targeted 1,286 victims, primarily through fake romantic relationships that led to extortion via threats of distributing explicit video calls, with 249 victims transferring money. Authorities are prosecuting the perpetrators under revised ITE laws and the new Criminal Code for electronic information distribution, pornography, and fraud, highlighting significant vulnerabilities in the prison's security and communication systems.

Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education Prepares 7,586 Practical Rooms to Boost Student Competitiveness

The Indonesian Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen) is enhancing vocational education by constructing 7,586 practical rooms across SMK, SLB, SKB, and PKBM institutions as part of the School Revitalisation Programme. This initiative aims to familiarise students with industrial practices, facilitating smoother transitions into the workforce and improving their competitiveness. Director General Tatang Muttaqin noted that while these facilities may not fully replicate real-world industrial environments, they provide essential foundational skills for future adjustments.

Bali Health Department Has Not Detected Hantavirus Cases, Entry Points Tightened

The Bali Provincial Health Department reports no confirmed or suspected hantavirus cases on the island, despite outbreaks in other parts of Indonesia, prompting enhanced surveillance at airports, ports, and high-risk work areas to prevent transmission. Hantavirus, a zoonotic disease spread through contact with infected rodents, presents flu-like symptoms that can escalate to severe respiratory issues, and officials urge the public to maintain cleanliness and seek medical attention for relevant symptoms. Coordination with district health services, migrant worker screenings, and real-time monitoring with the national Ministry of Health underscore Bali's proactive public health strategy amid rising national concerns.

Cak Imin meets Prabowo to report on poverty alleviation and job creation

Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment, Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar (Cak Imin), met with President Prabowo Subianto to update on key initiatives tackling poverty, empowering communities, creating jobs, and boosting MSME productivity. Highlights include the expansion of 1,001 People's Markets to invigorate MSME sales, increased distribution of People's Business Credit (KUR) with 1,000 MSMEs in Bali set to receive funding soon, and the SMK Go Global programme aimed at placing vocational graduates from impoverished areas in overseas jobs. Additionally, the government is advancing the "10 million working and 10 million upgrading" programme to foster MSME growth and strengthen the middle class.

Plenary Meeting on Bill, DPR Legislation Committee Chair Says Discussion on Online Drivers to Be Addressed

The Chairman of the DPR's Legislation Committee, Bob Hasan, announced during a plenary meeting that the committee will soon discuss a bill specifically addressing online drivers (ojol), following President Prabowo Subianto's recent directive. Prabowo has signed Presidential Regulation No. 27 of 2026 on the Protection of Online Transportation Workers, mandating BPJS health coverage, accident insurance, and a minimum 92% revenue share for drivers, reducing platform cuts to below 10%. This move aims to enhance protections for gig economy workers amid ongoing deliberations on broader freelance and platform worker legislation.

Nickel Battery Electric Vehicles to Receive Larger Incentives, BYD's Response

The Indonesian government is finalising incentives for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) to boost domestic demand in the second half of 2026, with larger incentives proposed for those using nickel-based batteries to leverage local mineral resources and strengthen the national battery industry. BYD Indonesia's Head of Marketing, Luther Pandjaitan, welcomed the policy as supportive of energy transition and electrification efforts, though he noted the lack of official details and emphasised that both nickel and LFP battery technologies contribute to national goals. He highlighted BYD's focus on long-term strategies and expressed gratitude for current policy stability, which has driven sales growth and consumer confidence in electric vehicles.

Puan Opens Session V of 2025-2026, DPR Ready to Continue Discussion on P2SK Bill

Indonesian House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani officially opened the fifth session of the 2025-2026 legislative year, outlining key legislative agendas including amendments to the Financial Sector Development and Strengthening Law (P2SK) and emphasising enhanced oversight on public welfare issues. The session will focus on 16 strategic priorities, ranging from public safety and law enforcement integrity to economic stability, social protection, and global economic resilience. This two-month period underscores the DPR's commitment to advancing reforms in wage systems, agrarian policies, and sustainable practices in state-owned enterprises amid ongoing societal challenges.

Prabowo Summons Cak Imin to the Palace, Discusses UMKM Capital to Job Opportunities

President Prabowo Subianto met with Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Muhaimin Iskandar (Cak Imin) at the State Palace to review progress on poverty alleviation, community empowerment programmes, job creation, and UMKM productivity enhancement. Key initiatives discussed include establishing people's markets at 1,001 locations, subsidies for training and capital access for UMKM, and expanding KUR loans, with 1,000 UMKM set to receive funding in Bali. Additionally, the SMK Go Global programme aims to place 500,000 vocational school graduates from the poorest regions as migrant workers in countries like Europe, the US, South Korea, the Middle East, and Japan by 2029, highlighting the government's focus on economic inclusion and global employment opportunities.

Former Philippine Police Chief Flees ICC Arrest

Former Philippine police chief Ronald 'Bato' dela Rosa, a key figure in Rodrigo Duterte's deadly anti-drug campaign, sought refuge in the Senate building to evade an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant for his alleged role in extrajudicial killings. The incident unfolds amid escalating political tensions between the Duterte and Marcos dynasties, highlighted by Senate protection for dela Rosa and the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte. This case underscores ongoing accountability efforts for the campaign, which resulted in thousands of deaths, and dela Rosa's past recognition by Indonesian police in 2018.

Crude Oil from Community Wells in Blora Begins Delivery to Pertamina

The Blora Migas Energy Cooperative (BME) has initiated shipments of approximately 15,000 litres of crude oil from community wells in Desa Plantungan, Blora, to Pertamina, marking an early step towards bolstering regional energy production and supporting national oil lifting targets. This effort involves rigorous quality testing, with samples undergoing laboratory checks to ensure water content does not exceed 0.5%, building on successful precedents from nearby villages like Botoreco. With around 1,600 community wells under BME's guidance potentially yielding 10,000 litres daily, the partnership aims to enhance energy security, increase local revenue shares, and improve welfare for small-scale oil producers across Blora district.

South Kalimantan Directorate General of Corrections Supports Acceleration of Integration Rights Provision

The South Kalimantan Regional Office of the Directorate General of Corrections is backing efforts to speed up the granting of integration rights to inmates as a means to address overcrowding in prisons and detention centres. During a coordination meeting, Head Mulyadi highlighted challenges including a 94% occupancy rate and 12 cases of detainees overstaying their limits due to administrative and legal hurdles, calling for a systemic approach and stronger inter-agency collaboration. The Coordinating Ministry for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Corrections has advocated for an integrated task force to achieve 'zero overstaying' through enhanced coordination and data synchronisation.

Attorney General's Office Forcibly Apprehends and Detains Nickel Company Boss Suspected of Bribing Ombudsman Chairman

The Attorney General's Office (Kejagung) has forcibly apprehended and detained Laode Sinarwan Oda, owner of PT Toshida Indonesia, in connection with a corruption case involving nickel mining governance in Southeast Sulawesi from 2013 to 2025. Laode is accused of bribing former Ombudsman Chairman Hery Susanto with Rp 1.5 billion to manipulate an investigation into non-tax state revenue calculations by the Forestry Ministry, allowing the company to avoid penalties. This case highlights ongoing issues of corruption in Indonesia's mining sector and public oversight institutions.

KPK Emphasises Corruption Prevention in Public Services Sector

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has reaffirmed its commitment to preventing corruption in public services, asset management, and regional revenues across local governments, particularly through collaboration with the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) and regional authorities in North Sulawesi. Key focuses include enhancing land-related public services to curb illegal levies, safeguarding government assets for public benefit, and optimising regional income to prevent misuse. Nine targeted programmes were agreed upon following coordination meetings, building on successful initiatives in South and Southeast Sulawesi, where local leaders demonstrated strong commitment to these anti-corruption efforts.

Analyst: Ratification of APSA Crucial for Strengthening ASEAN's Energy Resilience

International relations expert Teuku Rezasyah emphasises that ratifying the ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement (APSA) is vital for bolstering energy resilience across ASEAN nations amid global supply uncertainties and ongoing geopolitical conflicts. He highlights how energy crises have slowed development and economic growth in the region, exacerbated by Middle East tensions and currency weaknesses, urging deeper coordination under the ASEAN Charter. However, Rezasyah warns that ratification faces challenges due to differing political systems and national interests, requiring governments to persuade parliaments of its long-term benefits.

Rupiah Breaches 17,500 Level, Economist: Cannot Be Equated with the 1998 Crisis

The Indonesian rupiah has weakened to breach the Rp 17,500 per US dollar mark, but economists assert this does not signal a crisis akin to 1998, citing stronger economic fundamentals such as controlled foreign debt at $437.9 billion and robust foreign reserves of $146.2 billion. The depreciation is primarily driven by external factors like Middle East conflicts and stalled Iran-US negotiations, which have elevated oil prices and strengthened the dollar, exerting greater pressure on emerging markets like Indonesia. While short-term stability is expected around current levels, future movements hinge on geopolitical developments, with domestic factors also requiring government attention.

Eradicating Poverty, Cak Imin: Those Using Social Aid for Online Gambling Automatically Disqualified

Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment, Muhaimin Iskandar (Cak Imin), has announced that the government is immediately disqualifying social aid recipients who use their funds for online gambling, with relevant data held by the Social Affairs Ministry. This measure is part of ongoing efforts to combat poverty and ensure aid reaches those in genuine need. Additionally, the government is implementing programmes to uplift the middle class, aiming to enhance social mobility and economic stability.

Finance Minister Purbaya Gathers Ambassadors from 61 Countries at Ministry Office, What's the Reason?

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa hosted an International Seminar on Debottlenecking at the Ministry of Finance, inviting ambassadors from 61 countries and representatives from international organisations. The event introduced the government's Debottlenecking Task Force (Satgas P2SP), established via Presidential Decree No. 4 of 2026, aimed at accelerating investment realisation and resolving business obstacles such as regulations, permits, and infrastructure issues transparently. Purbaya emphasised the task force's online platform for submitting complaints, promising swift resolutions, and noted that eight debottlenecking sessions have already addressed various projects, including foreign investments, by May 2026.

Rupiah Plummets to Rp17,500/US$, Here's the Impact on Property Developers

The Indonesian rupiah's depreciation to Rp17,500 per US dollar has raised concerns for the national property sector, particularly regarding foreign currency debt pressures. However, JLL Indonesia's Country Head Farazia Basarah states that most property developers fund projects with rupiah loans from domestic banks, mitigating direct exchange rate risks. While conversion of investment returns to US dollars may reduce yields for foreign investors, the sector remains relatively insulated from financing vulnerabilities.

Residents Agree to Closure of Railway Crossing in Tebet: But Not All of Them

Residents near the railway tracks between Tebet and Cawang stations in South Jakarta support the planned closure of unofficial crossings due to safety concerns, including damaged fences that allow illegal dumping. However, they request that at least one crossing remains open to avoid lengthy detours for local access, such as to schools in Kebon Baru. PT KAI plans to repair the fences, coordinate with local authorities on waste management, and aims to close 52 such crossings in the Jakarta operational area this year, with nine already completed.

Attorney General's Office Arrests Briber to Ombudsman Chief Hery Susanto

The Attorney General's Office (Kejagung) has arrested Laode Sinarwan Oda, the CEO of PT Toshida Indonesia, for allegedly bribing Ombudsman RI Chairman Hery Susanto in a corruption case involving nickel mining governance in Southeast Sulawesi from 2013 to 2025. Hery Susanto, previously named a suspect, is accused of issuing corrective letters that reduced state non-tax revenues and fines for PT TSHI, receiving Rp1.5 billion in return. This arrest underscores ongoing efforts to combat corruption in Indonesia's mining sector and public oversight institutions.

Central Java Investment Business Forum 2026 Yields 40 Letters of Intent Worth Rp16 Trillion

The Central Java Investment Business Forum (CJIBF) 2026 has secured 40 Letters of Intent (LoIs) totalling Rp16 trillion, stemming from one-on-one meetings between potential investors, local government, industrial zone managers, and businesses. These commitments span sectors including renewable energy, agriculture and food downstreaming, tourism, mining, and key industrial zones, with investors from Thailand, China, India, and domestic sources showing strong interest. The forum, a collaboration between the Central Java Provincial Government and Bank Indonesia, supports the province's investment targets, contributing to a first-quarter economic growth of 5.89%, surpassing the national average of 5.61%.

WFH for Civil Servants: Impact on Local Economy, SMEs, and Energy Savings

Indonesia's policy allowing civil servants (ASN) to work from home one day a week is beginning to affect the economic vitality of government office areas, with small businesses such as food stalls, coffee shops, and daily transport services experiencing reduced turnover due to lower employee mobility. While business leaders like HIPMI Secretary General Anggawira acknowledge the policy's aim to enhance bureaucratic efficiency and digital adaptation, they urge consideration of its ripple effects on SMEs and service sectors reliant on office activity. Although the impact remains modest for a single day, simultaneous large-scale implementation without flexible arrangements could pose greater risks to the local economy dependent on daily human traffic and consumption.

Presidential Chief of Staff Dudung Reprimands MBG Kitchen: If It's Just About Meeting Targets, Catering Would Suffice

Presidential Chief of Staff Dudung Abdurachman has warned the Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) implementing the free nutritious meals (MBG) programme not to prioritise mere quantity over nutritional value and health standards, emphasising President Prabowo Subianto's directives. During an unannounced inspection of two MBG kitchens in West Jakarta, Dudung found substandard conditions including unclean areas, presence of maggots, inadequate facilities, and poor separation of clean and dirty zones, deeming them unfit and calling for immediate improvements or closure. He stressed that the programme, funded by public money, must not be treated as a business venture and coordinated with the National Nutrition Agency to suspend non-compliant operations, ensuring accountability and beneficiary safety.

Babel Provincial Government and UGM Strengthen Education to Create Superior Human Resources

The Bangka Belitung Provincial Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Gadjah Mada University (UGM) to enhance education, research, and human resource development in the region, aiming to foster superior human capital. Governor Hidayat Arsani emphasised that this collaboration will drive tangible progress through knowledge-based approaches, innovation, and cross-sector partnerships, ultimately improving the quality of life and competitiveness of the province. UGM Rector Ova Emilia welcomed the partnership as a vital step in bridging academia and local government for sustainable development.

Puan Warns Not to Take Hantavirus Lightly: Don't Let It Spread Like Covid

House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani has urged the Indonesian government to take proactive measures against the emerging threat of Hantavirus, cautioning that it should not be underestimated to prevent a widespread outbreak similar to Covid-19. She emphasised the need for early anticipation and mitigation of any contagious virus, including tightening preventive measures, and announced that relevant parliamentary commissions will seek explanations from stakeholders on prevention strategies. Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin assured that the government is enhancing health screening and surveillance systems, with the current Hantavirus cases confined to a cruise ship and preparations underway for rapid tests and PCR detection.

Rupiah at All-Time Weakest, US Dollar Now Breaches Rp17,490

The Indonesian rupiah hit a record low, closing at Rp17,490 against the US dollar on Tuesday, driven by a combination of global uncertainties from escalating Middle East conflicts and domestic seasonal demands such as foreign debt payments and Hajj pilgrimage needs. Bank Indonesia's Senior Deputy Governor Destry Damayanti assured continued interventions in forex markets to stabilise the currency, while noting positive foreign investor inflows into government bonds. The government, through Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, plans to support these efforts via the Bond Stabilization Fund starting the following day, underscoring coordinated action to mitigate exchange rate pressures.

At New York Forum, Forestry Minister Highlights Indonesia's Carbon Investment Potential

Indonesia's Forestry Minister, Raja Juli Antoni, presented the country's new roadmap for national forest management at a business forum in New York, transforming forests into a global green economy hub with a focus on transparent carbon trading. He emphasised the issuance of Ministerial Regulation No. 6 of 2026, which provides legal certainty for carbon credit production, verification, and trading across various forest areas, integrating with international standards like the Paris Agreement's Article 6. This initiative, alongside multi-business forest schemes promoting ESG principles, aims to attract global partnerships and support Indonesia's FOLU Net Sink 2030 target by diversifying revenue through carbon, ecotourism, and bioeconomy products.

To Prevent Poisoning, BGN Asks SPPG Not to Cook Noodles Without a Competent Chef

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has issued a circular to the Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) advising against preparing noodle dishes unless they have a skilled chef proficient in techniques to prevent rapid spoilage, following a food poisoning incident affecting 147 children in East Jakarta. The incident, linked to a free nutritious meal kitchen, involved 33 children requiring hospitalisation, all of whom were discharged the next day, highlighting ongoing issues with wet noodle menus due to their high moisture content that fosters microbial growth. This underscores the need for stricter hygiene protocols in government-funded school feeding programmes to ensure child safety.

APINDO Collaborates with Barru Regency to Promote Investment and SMEs at RAKERKONAS 2026

The organising committee of APINDO's 35th National Working Meeting and Consultation (RAKERKONAS), set for 3-5 August 2026 in Makassar, held an audience with Barru Regent Hj. Andi Ina Kartika Sari to secure local government support and explore promotional opportunities for regional investments and flagship products. The event will feature an APINDO UMKM & Business Investment Expo on 3-4 August, inviting Barru to showcase its unique SMEs, potentials, and strategic investment prospects in Eastern Indonesia, with an expected attendance of 700 participants from across 34 provinces, foreign embassies, and international trade centres. Prof. Dr. Mashur Razak also requested the Regent's participation as a speaker in the Business Investment Forum to facilitate dialogue among regional leaders, investors, and national business actors, highlighting the significance of such national gatherings in boosting economic development in Sulawesi Selatan.

Economist attributes rupiah's breach of Rp17,500 to global and domestic pressures

The Indonesian rupiah weakened beyond Rp17,500 per US dollar on Tuesday, driven by a combination of global factors including rising oil prices and US dollar strength amid escalating US-Iran tensions, alongside domestic concerns such as the upcoming MSCI Index Review and recent credit rating downgrades by Moody's and Fitch. Permata Bank's Chief Economist Josua Pardede highlighted that these pressures have significantly reduced foreign investors' risk appetite for rupiah-denominated assets, though he emphasised that Indonesia's economic fundamentals remain robust compared to the 1997-1998 crisis. Looking ahead, rupiah stability will hinge on geopolitical developments and policy responses from the government and Bank Indonesia, with limited room for interest rate cuts to prioritise currency stability.

Can KIP Kuliah Be Revoked? Learn the Reasons and the Amount of Assistance

The Indonesian Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology states that KIP Kuliah recipients' status is evaluated each semester, with benefits potentially revoked due to improved economic conditions, failure to meet GPA standards, dropping out, unauthorised transfers, death, or rule violations. Recipients can verify their status online via the official KIP Kuliah website using their NIK. For 2026, the programme offers full tuition fee waivers and living expense stipends ranging from Rp 800,000 to Rp 1,400,000 per semester, based on regional cost indices, supporting underprivileged students in pursuing higher education.

Online Gambling in Indonesia by the Numbers: Rp 286 Trillion Turnover and 241,013 Sites Blocked

Online gambling in Indonesia generated a turnover of Rp 286.84 trillion in 2025 through 422.1 million transactions, marking a 20% decline from the previous year's Rp 359.81 trillion, according to PPATK data. The financial intelligence unit reported that 12.3 million individuals made deposits via banks, e-wallets, and QRIS, with a notable shift towards QRIS usage. This reduction is attributed to effective government-private sector collaboration in prevention efforts, while lawmakers urge intensified crackdowns to protect families and youth from the social and economic harms posed by these illegal networks.

Judge Sentences Alfian and Hanung to 6 Years in Prison in Crude Oil Management Corruption Case

A Jakarta court has sentenced two former Pertamina executives, Alfian Nasution and Hanung Budya Yuktyanta, to six years in prison each for corruption in the management of crude oil and refinery products. The ruling, delivered by Chief Judge Adek Nurhadi, found them guilty under primary charges, imposing additional fines of Rp1 billion or 150 days' substitute imprisonment. This verdict underscores ongoing efforts to combat corruption in state-owned enterprises, despite prosecutors seeking harsher penalties of 14 and 8 years respectively.

Purbaya to Assist BI in Stabilising Rupiah Exchange Rate Starting Tomorrow: Here's the Strategy

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has announced that the government will support Bank Indonesia in addressing the rupiah's depreciation, which has reached around Rp 17,500 per US dollar, by intervening in the bond market using the Bond Stabilization Fund. This strategy aims to control yields and prevent capital outflows by foreign investors, potentially encouraging inflows to strengthen the currency, without impacting the state budget given the ample national reserves and assumptions in the 2026 APBN. The interventions are set to commence as early as tomorrow, highlighting the government's proactive fiscal measures amid currency pressures.

BYD Set to Launch M6 DM-i, Potentially the Cheapest PHEV?

BYD is reportedly planning to launch its M6 DM-i plug-in hybrid electric vehicle in Indonesia on 18 May 2026, with an estimated price range of Rp 320 million to Rp 380 million, which could make it the most affordable PHEV in the market. This would undercut the current cheapest option, the Wuling Eksion PHEV CE at Rp 389 million, and significantly broaden access to advanced electrified vehicles in a segment where most models exceed Rp 400 million. The introduction highlights growing competition in Indonesia's PHEV market, potentially accelerating the adoption of hybrid technology among middle-income consumers.

Prabowo Summons Cak Imin to Palace to Discuss Poverty and Job Opportunities

President Prabowo Subianto has summoned Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Muhaimin Iskandar (Cak Imin) to the Presidential Palace to review efforts addressing poverty, job creation, and UMKM productivity enhancement. Cak Imin outlined initiatives including training, capital access, and 1,001 people's markets to boost small business markets, alongside increased KUR loans for UMKM, with 1,000 recipients set for Bali. The SMK Go Global programme continues to expand, sending graduates from the poorest deciles to international opportunities in countries like the US, Europe, Middle East, Korea, and Japan, underscoring the government's commitment to empowering marginalised communities.

Agriculture Minister inspects flood-affected settlements and rice fields in Southeast Sulawesi

Indonesian Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman visited flood-impacted areas in Kendari and South Konawe Regency, Southeast Sulawesi, on direct orders from President Prabowo Subianto to swiftly address residents' complaints. He identified breached embankments as the primary cause of water disruptions and instructed the Regional River Basin Agency to repair them within one week, with funding and equipment ready to prevent recurrence. Coordination with the Public Works Ministry is underway for irrigation repairs and new embankment construction to avert future floods.

Finance Minister Purbaya's Message to Tax Officials: Do Not Create Policies on Your Own!

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has urged tax officials to uphold discipline, professionalism, and integrity in their duties, emphasising that their role extends beyond revenue collection to maintaining public trust in the state. During the inauguration of eight new officials at the Directorate General of Taxes, he warned against aggressive or lenient approaches that could either disrupt society and business or undermine state income, advising them to strictly adhere to existing regulations and report any ambiguities for review. Purbaya stressed that positions in taxation are responsibilities, not privileges, and must be executed without devising independent policies to ensure the nation's fiscal strength and unity.