Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 12 May 2026

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Antam Gold Price Today Surges to Rp 2,859,000

The price of Antam gold has risen by Rp 40,000 to Rp 2,859,000 per gram, with the buyback price also increasing to Rp 2,676,000 per gram, as recorded on the Logam Mulia website on 12 May 2026. Transactions are subject to income tax deductions under PMK Number 34/PMK.10/2017, including 0.45% for NPWP holders and 0.9% for non-holders on purchases, and 1.5% or 3% on sales exceeding Rp 10 million. This surge highlights the ongoing volatility in precious metals markets, influenced by economic factors, with detailed prices provided for various gold bar denominations from 0.5 to 1,000 grams.

292 DPR Members Attend Opening of Session Period, Appoint Replacement for Adies Kadir

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) convened the opening of its fifth session period for 2025-2026, attended by 292 members, achieving quorum under the leadership of Speaker Puan Maharani. The plenary session at the Senayan parliamentary complex in Jakarta also officially appointed Adela Kanasya Adies from the Golkar Party's East Java I electoral district as the replacement for former Deputy Speaker Adies Kadir, who has taken up a position as a Constitutional Court judge. This procedural event marks the commencement of legislative activities for the new session, open to the public.

US-Iran Peace Deal at Risk of Failure, Oil Prices Break Through US$105

Global oil prices have surged past US$105 per barrel for Brent crude amid escalating tensions between the US and Iran, with negotiations teetering on the brink of collapse and uncertainties surrounding the Strait of Hormuz threatening supply disruptions. The US has released 53.3 million barrels from its strategic reserves to calm markets, while imposing new sanctions on entities facilitating Iranian oil exports to China; however, experts warn that prolonged disruptions could delay market stability until 2027 and push prices even higher. This geopolitical standoff underscores the vulnerability of global energy supplies, with OPEC production at two-decade lows exacerbating the supply crunch.

Purbaya Explains Reasons for Not Yet Wanting to Increase Marketplace Taxes

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has stated that the Indonesian government will not rush to impose additional taxes on digital marketplace transactions until economic growth stabilises above 6 per cent for two consecutive quarters. This cautious approach aims to ensure fair competition between online and offline businesses, addressing complaints from traditional traders about uneven playing fields. Currently, marketplaces collect a 0.5 per cent income tax on domestic sellers' turnover under existing regulations, but small traders with annual revenues up to Rp500 million are exempt upon declaration.

Passengers Crammed Due to KRL Green Line Disruption at Serpong Station

A technical disruption on the KRL Commuter Line train KA1635B on the Serpong-Tanah Abang route caused significant overcrowding at Sudimara station this morning, leading passengers like Riani to endure packed conditions that even damaged her phone. KAI Commuter Line apologised for the delay, confirming that while the affected train is under repair, services from Parung Panjang and Rangkas Bitung remain operational. This incident highlights ongoing reliability challenges in Indonesia's commuter rail system, impacting daily commutes for many urban workers.

Government Plans to Cut KUR Interest Rate to 5 Percent, OJK Affirms This

The Indonesian government plans to reduce the interest rate on Kredit Usaha Rakyat (KUR) loans from 6 percent to a maximum of 5 percent annually to broaden financing access for the public and SMEs. OJK fully supports this policy, confirming collaboration with the government and alignment with initiatives like the SLIK system to aid the 3 million housing programme. President Prabowo Subianto's directive aims to alleviate high borrowing costs for small-scale workers, farmers, and fishermen, with the Finance Ministry calculating necessary subsidy adjustments.

Chinese researchers develop lithium-sulphur battery for drones

Chinese researchers from Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School have developed a novel approach to lithium-sulphur batteries using a 'premediator' concept, significantly enhancing performance by preventing the dissolution of intermediate compounds and reducing internal resistance by 75%. The breakthrough results in batteries with an energy density of 549 watt-hours per kilogram, nearly double that of standard drone batteries, enabling longer flight times, greater payloads, and expanded operational ranges for applications like delivery, inspection, and search-and-rescue. Published in Nature, this innovation could extend to other battery technologies, addressing range anxiety in low-altitude aviation and beyond.

BPNT Social Assistance for May 2026 Worth Rp 600,000 Already Disbursed, Check Recipient Status Here

The Indonesian government has disbursed the BPNT (Non-Cash Food Assistance) social aid of Rp 600,000 for the April to June 2026 period to eligible families across various regions. This aid, aimed at supporting basic food needs, is distributed through major state-owned banks such as BRI, BNI, Mandiri, and BTN, or via post offices based on recipients' locations. Beneficiaries can verify their status and disbursement details using the Cek Bansos application, which provides key information including names, aid types, and payout status.

Soekarno-Hatta Airport Tightens Surveillance on Travellers from Four Countries

The Quarantine Health Agency at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Tangerang, Banten, has intensified surveillance on air travellers arriving from the United States, Argentina, Uruguay, and Panama due to identified cases of Hantavirus transmission in those countries. This measure responds to a World Health Organization report on fatalities from the virus among cruise ship passengers, involving health declarations via the Satu Sehat app, thermal scanning, visual observation, and special evaluation lanes for infectious diseases. Authorities urge travellers to remain vigilant, adhere to health protocols, and strengthen their immune systems, as the virus spreads through contact with rodent urine, saliva, or contamination.

KoinP2P Reveals Business Operations Amid Ongoing Legal Proceedings

The management of PT Lunaria Annua Teknologi (KoinP2P), a subsidiary of the fintech platform PT Sejahtera Lunaria Annua (KoinWorks), has assured that its operational activities and services to users continue normally despite an ongoing corruption investigation involving three company executives. The case centres on alleged unlawful lending through a funding partnership with Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI), with both KoinP2P and BRI pledging full cooperation with authorities while upholding principles of good corporate governance. The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has summoned KoinP2P's management and shareholders to ensure business continuity, highlighting regulatory scrutiny in Indonesia's fintech sector.

Dominated by Productive Age Group, Traffic Accidents Become a Serious Alarm

Road traffic accidents remain a leading cause of fatalities in Indonesia, with over 100 deaths daily, predominantly among motorcyclists in the productive age range of 11 to 55 years. According to experts, 75% of victims are young males, and 61% of incidents are attributed to human factors like poor driving skills and risky behaviour, despite an 8% decline in fatalities during the 2026 Eid exodus compared to the previous year. This data underscores the urgent need for improvements in driver discipline and competence, beyond mere infrastructure or vehicle maintenance, to enhance road safety.

JCI Plunges 1.22% Ahead of MSCI Rebalancing Announcement

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell sharply by 1.22% to 6,821.68 points in early trading on Tuesday, driven by selling pressure ahead of the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) global index rebalancing announcement. Despite the downturn, technical indicators show a bullish divergence on the Relative Strength Index (RSI), suggesting weakening selling pressure and potential for a rebound if positive sentiment emerges. This volatility highlights investor caution in Indonesia's equity market amid global index adjustments.

Dollar Breaks Through Rp 17,500, This is the Critical Point for the Rupiah Throughout Indonesia's History

The Indonesian rupiah has plummeted to a record low of Rp17,505 per US dollar on Tuesday, marking a 0.59% weakening and breaching the psychological Rp17,500 level amid ongoing pressures. This depreciation adds to a long history of rupiah vulnerabilities, including the 1997-1998 Asian financial crisis, political upheavals in 1998 and 2001, the 2008 global financial crisis, the 2015 emerging market turmoil, the 2018 currency routs, the 2020 COVID-19 panic, and more recent strains from US monetary policy in 2024 and Trump's tariff announcements in 2025. The event underscores persistent risks to Indonesia's currency from both domestic instability and global economic shocks, potentially exacerbating inflationary pressures and economic uncertainty.

Europe Wants to Negotiate with Russia, Putin Names This Person

The Kremlin has welcomed emerging discussions in Europe about reopening dialogue with Moscow amid the prolonged Ukraine war's strain on the continent's economy and security. President Vladimir Putin suggested former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder as a potential mediator, emphasising the need for a trusted figure without hostile statements against Russia. Meanwhile, European Council President Antonio Costa indicated preparations for possible negotiations with Russia at the appropriate time, signalling a potential thaw in relations frozen since the 2022 invasion.

Parking Attendant in Banyumas Realises Dream of Hajj Through Savings

Sucipto, a 64-year-old parking attendant in Purwokerto, Banyumas, has fulfilled his lifelong dream of performing the Hajj pilgrimage after over a decade of diligent saving from his modest daily earnings of around Rp50,000 and a night security job paying Rp900,000 monthly. Despite financial constraints while supporting his children's education, he supplemented his savings by selling family land to cover the initial registration fee of Rp25.5 million, demonstrating remarkable perseverance and community support. His story highlights the power of persistence and frugality in achieving spiritual goals amid economic challenges in Indonesia.

Reasons for Ministry of Social Affairs Withdrawing 2026 Procurement Plan Data from Inaproc

The Ministry of Social Affairs withdrew its 2026 General Procurement Plan (RUP) data for the General Secretariat from the national procurement portal Inaproc due to necessary adjustments in technical specifications, budget synchronisation with updated allocations, evaluation of procurement methods, and legal considerations to ensure compliance and avoid disputes. This action follows public scrutiny over the ministry's procurement processes, particularly a Rp 27.54 billion shoe procurement for People's Schools, which has been referred to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) for analysis. The withdrawal, initially perceived as a data disappearance, raises concerns about transparency in budget tracking, especially as the ministry prepares for strategic programmes under President Prabowo Subianto.

Puan Urges Government to Quickly and Accurately Provide Information on Hantavirus

House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani has called on the government to swiftly and precisely disseminate information about Hantavirus to prevent public panic, emphasising the need for transparent communication and robust health infrastructure preparedness. She highlighted lessons from the early COVID-19 uncertainty, stressing that the state must ensure responsible handling of infectious disease information. Health Ministry official Andi Saguni clarified that the detected cases in Indonesia are of the HFRS type with Seoul Virus strain, with no evidence of human-to-human transmission, unlike the HPS variant.

Purbaya Inaugurates Six New Officials at the Directorate General of Taxes, Here is the Complete List

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has inaugurated six new officials at the Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) in response to inaccuracies in tax refund data that led to the dismissal of several high-ranking officials. The appointments aim to address reporting discrepancies, particularly after last year's tax refunds significantly exceeded initial estimates, highlighting the need for improved accuracy in fiscal information. The new appointees include key roles in tax extension, assessment, services, data processing, and regional leadership.

Ahead of MSCI Announcement, 1 US Dollar Reaches Rp 17,502

The Indonesian rupiah weakened to Rp 17,502 against the US dollar on Tuesday morning, marking its second weakest level in May amid global tensions from the US-Israel conflict with Iran and anticipation of the MSCI announcement on stock market changes. Analysts predict further depreciation due to fading hopes for peace, high oil prices, and potential downgrades in the local stock index, while domestic retail sales data is awaited. The government, led by President Prabowo Subianto, has urgently convened key officials to address the currency's slide, attributing it primarily to external factors despite claims of sound fiscal management.

Bank Mandiri Predicts Economic Growth of 5.1-5.5 Percent in Q2

Bank Mandiri forecasts Indonesia's economy to grow by 5.1-5.5 percent in the second quarter of 2026, a slowdown from the 5.61 percent expansion in the first quarter, attributed to the absence of catalysts like the Eid al-Fitr period. Despite indicators such as retail sales and consumer confidence showing moderation influenced by global sentiments, supportive monetary, macroprudential, and fiscal policies are expected to bolster growth. Rising commodity prices, particularly oil, present opportunities for faster export growth to cushion the economy.

To Promote Community Empowerment, Government Expands Social Assistance Digitalisation

The Indonesian government is advancing the digitalisation of social assistance through the Pro-Kesra initiative, aiming to transform it from temporary aid into a comprehensive empowerment ecosystem using public digital infrastructure and artificial intelligence. Key figures including Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, Rini Widyantini, and Rachmat Pambudy highlighted how this approach will enhance service precision, integration, and efficiency while fostering community independence via real-time data verification and cross-sectoral coordination. The programme targets vulnerable groups such as the poor, women, elderly, disaster victims, and people with disabilities, supporting economic empowerment through capacity building, market access, financing, and job placement to accelerate poverty reduction.

Defending Honorary Teachers and Religious Instructors

The impending end of assignments for non-ASN teachers by 2027 has sparked widespread anxiety among Indonesia's educators, particularly as the government transitions towards ASN and PPPK structures, leaving many honorary teachers in uncertainty despite assurances against mass dismissals. Similarly, thousands of honorary religious instructors, who have long supported national religious services, face precarious futures after failing to secure permanent positions, exacerbating gaps in service delivery across remote and underserved areas. This policy shift risks creating social vacuums by prioritising administrative efficiency over the vital roles these workers play in fostering moral literacy, preventing intolerance, and maintaining community cohesion, underscoring the need for a more humane approach to public service reform.

Indonesia eyes ex-situ conservation for Komodo dragons

Indonesia is planning ex-situ conservation efforts for the endangered Komodo dragon to complement in-situ protection in Komodo National Park, aiming to enhance species sustainability and promote educational tourism experiences. This initiative seeks to alleviate pressure on the natural habitat by limiting daily visitors to 1,000, following 429,509 visits in 2025 that exceeded the park's carrying capacity, while distributing economic benefits to mainland Flores. The Tourism Ministry emphasises cross-sector collaboration to integrate these efforts into sustainable tourism, preserving the dragon's exclusivity as an endemic species.

Purbaya's Plan to Introduce New Excise Layer Scheme Appreciated

The Indonesian tobacco industry, particularly small and medium enterprises, has praised Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa's plan to introduce a new excise layer for people's cigarettes, viewing it as a vital step to ease the transition of illegal producers into the legal market and address the burdensome existing tax structure. Industry leaders emphasise the need for supportive policies beyond repression, including realistic legal pathways and the establishment of a Madura Tobacco Special Economic Zone to integrate farmers, manufacturers, and oversight into a cohesive national ecosystem. This initiative is seen as crucial for curbing illegal cigarettes, boosting state revenues, and fostering an inclusive tobacco sector amid ongoing economic challenges.

The Irony of Truth's Dominance in the National Pillars Quiz Competition

A recent quiz competition on Indonesia's Four Pillars of Nationhood in West Kalimantan sparked public debate after a participant from SMAN 1 Pontianak challenged the judges' decision on a question about the Financial Audit Agency's selection mechanism, highlighting inconsistencies in rulings. The incident underscores a broader irony in educational settings where challenges to authority are met with rigid assertions rather than open dialogue, diminishing the pursuit of genuine learning. This event resonates with societal experiences of unyielding power structures, emphasising the need to value critical argumentation in education.

Like a Housing Complex, This is Prabowo's Gift to Residents Along the Senen Railway Tracks

In line with directives from key officials, state-owned enterprise Hutama Karya is accelerating the completion of 324 housing units and supporting facilities on 1.61 hectares of land owned by InJourney Airports to provide better living conditions for residents along the Senen railway tracks. Housing and Settlement Areas Minister Maruarar Sirait emphasised that these temporary residences serve as a quick solution while permanent arrangements are prepared. This initiative, presented as a gift from President Prabowo, aims to ensure safe, orderly, and decent housing for affected communities.

Rupiah Plunges Nearly to Rp 17,500 per US Dollar!

The Indonesian rupiah continued its weakening trend against the US dollar, reaching Rp 17,487 at the opening of trading on Tuesday, 12 May 2026, approaching the psychological threshold of Rp 17,500. According to Bloomberg data at 09:06 WIB, the dollar strengthened by 73 points or 0.42 percent. Meanwhile, the US dollar exhibited gains against several other major currencies, including the Australian dollar, euro, Singapore dollar, Japanese yen, Thai baht, and Malaysian ringgit, with a slight decline against the Chinese yuan.

Unlike the US, China Bans Companies from Laying Off Employees Due to AI Replacement

In a landmark ruling, a Hangzhou court in China has declared it illegal for companies to dismiss workers solely because their roles have been automated by AI, marking a protective stance towards employees that contrasts sharply with global trends, particularly in the United States. The case involved a quality assurance supervisor whose job was taken over by an in-house AI model, leading to an offer of a demoted position with a 40% pay cut, which he rejected, resulting in his termination under the guise of organisational restructuring. This decision emphasises that technological advancements like AI should enhance worker welfare rather than justify unilateral contract terminations or salary reductions, underscoring China's commitment to balancing innovation with labour rights.

Ministry of Manpower and IKA Fikom Unpad Strengthen Data-Based Public Communication

The Indonesian Ministry of Manpower (Kemnaker) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Alumni Association of the Faculty of Communication at Universitas Padjadjaran (IKA Fikom Unpad) to enhance public communication strategies using data-driven approaches and digital technology. Labour Minister Yassierli emphasised that this collaboration aims to make employment policies more accessible and impactful for the public, improving transparency and accountability across the labour ecosystem. The partnership is expected to boost communication competencies among workers and stakeholders, aligning with the tagline "Communicative, Productive, and Competent" to elevate Indonesia's human resources.

Bapanas Maintains Stability of Consumer Sugar Prices Amid Sugarcane Milling Season

Indonesia's National Food Agency (Bapanas) is collaborating with the Indonesian Sugar Producers Association (APGI) to stabilise consumer sugar prices as the sugarcane milling season begins in May 2026, anticipating a significant production surge to 276,400 tonnes from April's 58,300 tonnes. This initiative addresses recent price fluctuations and aims to ensure even distribution nationwide, with reference prices set at Rp17,500 per kg for most areas and Rp18,500 per kg for eastern Indonesia and remote regions. The effort supports national projections of 3 million tonnes of sugar production this year, bolstered by expanded sugarcane planting, enhancing food security and market stability.

Ministry of Health States No Cases of Hantavirus HPS Found in Indonesia

Indonesia's Ministry of Health has confirmed that no cases of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), as seen on the MV Hondius cruise ship, have been detected in the country, with all identified instances being the Haemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS) type caused by the Seoul Virus strain. Officials emphasise that HFRS, present in Indonesia since 1991, shows no evidence of human-to-human transmission and urge the public to remain vigilant against rodent exposure risks without panicking, as enhanced surveillance systems are effectively monitoring the situation. This reassurance comes amid global concerns over Hantavirus outbreaks, highlighting Indonesia's proactive public health measures.

Education Department Summons SMA 1 Pontianak Over MPR Quiz Controversy

The West Kalimantan Education and Culture Department has summoned the principal of SMA 1 Pontianak and their quiz team to address a judging controversy in the MPR's 4 Pillars Quiz Competition, where the team received a negative score for an answer deemed correct when given by another team. Officials urge adherence to official procedures and resubmission of objections to the organisers, emphasising the national event's role in promoting civic values like Pancasila and the 1945 Constitution. The incident highlights the need for fair evaluation in educational competitions to prevent future disputes.

Partnering with Baznas, BSI Simplifies Hajj Dam Payments via Application

PT Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) has partnered with the National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) to launch a digital payment service for hajj dam and sacrificial animals through the BYOND by BSI app, aiming to streamline the process for pilgrims and enhance the national sharia financial ecosystem. This collaboration enables quick, transparent transactions and monitoring of distributions, potentially benefiting millions of BSI customers, including over 164,000 of Indonesia's 203,320 regular hajj pilgrims for 2026. The initiative is expected to boost social participation in charitable giving, supporting welfare programmes, community economic empowerment, and social resilience through sharia-based social funds.

Creative Economy Minister Discusses Collaboration in Monetising Local Creative Works

Indonesia's Minister of Creative Economy, Teuku Riefky Harsya, met with representatives from the US Alumni Association (ALUMNAS) to explore collaborative opportunities for monetising local creative works and fostering sustainable growth in the sector. He highlighted the need for partnerships to enhance business capacities, expand market access, and develop intellectual property, particularly in subsectors like film, design, publishing, animation, and souvenirs. ALUMNAS expressed readiness to support through mentoring programmes, business forums, and talent development to bolster national creative economy initiatives.

Rupiah Hits Record Low, Some Banks Selling Dollars Near Rp17,700

The Indonesian rupiah has depreciated to a historic low of Rp17,500 against the US dollar, prompting major banks to adjust their selling rates above this level, with some approaching Rp17,700. This weakening, which opened with a 0.43% drop, coincides with a strengthening US dollar index at 98.115. The development raises concerns over Indonesia's economic stability amid global currency pressures.

North Kolaka Opens Global Investment Pathways, Delegates from 10 Countries and Industry Players Attend in Surabaya

The North Kolaka Regency Government has launched a forum in Surabaya to attract international investment for downstream industries based on local resources such as cocoa, coconut, fisheries, and nickel, aiming to transform raw commodities into value-added products. Attended by delegates from 10 countries including Australia, the Netherlands, and China, as well as national industry leaders and companies, the event facilitates business networking and potential partnerships to boost the region's economy. This initiative is expected to enhance local competitiveness, create jobs, and position North Kolaka as a hub for global industry rather than just a commodity producer.

Gold Price Update for Today, 12 May 2026: Antam Buy-Buyback Prices Soar!

Gold prices from PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) surged by Rp40,000 to Rp2,859,000 per gram on 12 May 2026, following a decline the previous day, while buyback prices also rose by Rp50,000 to Rp2,676,000 per gram. In contrast, prices at Pegadaian for Antam, Galeri24, and UBS products fell, with 1-gram Antam priced at Rp2,918,000. The update includes detailed pricing across various weights and tips for buying and storing gold safely, highlighting its role as a key investment asset amid market fluctuations.

Parking at Blok M Square Turns Out to Be Illegal, DPRD Special Committee Immediately Seals It

The Special Committee on Parking Management of the DKI Jakarta DPRD conducted a surprise inspection at Blok M Square in South Jakarta, revealing that nine entry points have been illegally managed since 2023, leading to the sealing of the Best Parking operator. Suspicions of tax evasion could result in the loss of over Rp 100 million in daily local revenue potential, highlighting significant weaknesses in Jakarta's parking oversight, digital integration, and regulatory compliance. The committee recommends revoking operational permits for unlicensed operators and shifting to a transparent, cashless system directly managed by the Parking Management Unit to prevent leaks and ensure accountability.

Virtual Meeting: AHY Reports Progress on Post-Disaster Rehabilitation to Prabowo

In a virtual meeting on Monday, Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) briefed President Prabowo on the progress of key infrastructure and resilience initiatives under his ministry, including the Java North Coast Rescue, post-disaster rehabilitation, the Green Indonesia Movement, the 3 Million Houses Programme, Transit Oriented Development, and national rail network transformation. AHY emphasised the critical role of water self-sufficiency through sustainable irrigation and household piping to bolster food security. Despite acknowledging significant challenges, he expressed optimism that cross-sectoral collaboration would yield robust, beneficial infrastructure for all Indonesians.

Polri KBPP Reports Readiness for VI National Congress to Police Chief via Audience

The Central Board of the Polri KBPP has briefed Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo on preparations for the VI National Congress of KBPP Polri, scheduled for 14-16 May in Jakarta, emphasising the need for a secure, orderly, and cohesive event. Chief Evita Nursanty expressed appreciation for the Chief's support and requested endorsement for her re-election as General Chair for 2026-2031, having secured backing from 31 out of 34 regional boards. This congress aims to consolidate the organisation's role as a strategic partner to Polri in community service and maintaining public order, underscoring the KBPP's importance within Indonesia's national security framework.

WIKA Reports Rp 483 Billion Loss in Three Months Due to Whoosh

State-owned construction firm PT Wijaya Karya (WIKA) recorded a loss of Rp 483.80 billion in the first quarter of 2026 from its stake in PT Kereta Cepat Indonesia China (KCIC), the operator of the Jakarta-Bandung Whoosh high-speed rail project. This loss, detailed in WIKA's financial report, stems from its 33.36% ownership in PT Pilar Sinergi BUMN (PSBI), the majority shareholder of KCIC, marking continued financial strain from the project. While WIKA's share is significant, it pales in comparison to PT KAI's larger burden, which holds 58.53% in PSBI and bore Rp 1.57 trillion in losses in 2024.

Diesel Fuel Prices Rising, Owners of Modern Diesel Cars Must Prepare for the Consequences

Diesel fuel prices at several private fuel stations in Indonesia have risen sharply in May 2026, approaching Rp 31,000 per litre, widening the gap with subsidised Biosolar at Rp 6,800 per litre. Mechanics warn that owners of modern diesel vehicles, which require low-sulphur fuel to prevent engine damage, must be prepared to pay for premium non-subsidised options like Dexlite or Pertamina Dex to maintain performance and longevity. This development highlights the challenges for diesel car owners amid fluctuating fuel costs and the importance of adhering to manufacturer specifications.

DJP Kaltimtara Blocks Accounts of Tax Defaulters Owing Rp710 Billion

The Regional Office of the Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) for East and North Kalimantan has blocked 322 bank accounts belonging to tax defaulters owing over Rp710 billion, aiming to deter non-compliant taxpayers and secure state revenue targets for 2026. Despite intensive education, warnings, and forced notices, the 142 taxpayers and 180 tax withholders failed to settle their debts, prompting simultaneous blocking requests to 18 banks on 29 April 2026 under Law No. 19 of 2000 and Minister of Finance Regulation No. 61 of 2023. This enforcement action underscores the government's commitment to rigorous tax collection amid ongoing challenges with uncooperative debtors.

Gerindra Praises Courage of LCC MPR Participant Ocha, Suggests Jury Apologise

The Gerindra faction leader in Indonesia's People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), Habiburokhman, has commended high school student Josepha Alexandra (Ocha) for her bravery in protesting an unfair judging decision during the MPR's Quiz Competition. He criticised the jury and host for their anti-critical stance and urged them to apologise, while proposing the replacement of the jury and a temporary halt to the event to ensure improvements. The incident, which went viral, highlighted inconsistencies in scoring related to questions on the State Audit Agency (BPK) selection process, underscoring the need for fairness in educational competitions tied to national institutions.

Debt Collection for Online Loans Has Rules: What You Need to Know

Public concern over intimidating debt collection practices for online loans (pinjol) in Indonesia persists, prompting reminders of existing regulations from the Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the Indonesian Joint Funding Fintech Association (AFPI). OJK's POJK No. 22/2023 emphasises consumer protection by prohibiting harassment, data breaches, and collections on national holidays, while allowing Sunday collections only with prior agreement. These rules aim to ensure ethical practices similar to traditional banking, with defaulters recorded in the Debtor Information System (SID) to promote responsible lending and borrower repayment.

Revealed! Illegal Mining Operations Found in IKN Area

Illegal mining activities have been uncovered in the Nusantara Capital Authority (IKN) area, including within the conservation forest of Tahura Bukit Soeharto, prompting swift action from a multi-agency task force established since 2023. The task force, involving ministries such as Energy and Mineral Resources, Environment and Forestry, as well as local police and government bodies, has conducted several enforcement operations, including shutting down illegal coal transport and mining sites in areas like Bukit Tengkorak and Samboja. Otorita IKN reaffirms its commitment to protecting conservation zones from illegal encroachments, with plans to intensify patrols, legal proceedings, and community involvement to safeguard the integrity of this key national development project.

Indonesia Affirms Development of Credible Carbon Trading Governance

Indonesia has reaffirmed its commitment to establishing credible, transparent, and internationally compliant governance for forestry carbon trading at a business forum in New York hosted by the International Emissions Trading Association (IETA) and the Indonesia-America Chamber of Commerce (IACC). Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni highlighted the nation's 120 million hectares of tropical forests as a gateway for global partnerships in climate investment and sustainable forestry business, underpinned by the new Ministerial Regulation Number 6 of 2026, which aligns national carbon markets with global standards like ICVCM and Paris Agreement Article 6. This initiative aims to enhance the competitiveness of Indonesian forestry carbon credits globally while promoting multi-business forestry schemes and strengthening ESG aspects to attract investment and achieve the FOLU Net Sink 2030 target.

North Jakarta Civil Service Police Secure Five "Pak Ogah" on RE Martadinata Street

North Jakarta's Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP) has apprehended five "pak ogah" individuals who were assisting vehicles to drive against traffic on RE Martadinata Street in Ancol, Pademangan, following public complaints about the disruption and safety risks they posed. The suspects were transported to the North Jakarta Social Services Sub-Department for data collection and further guidance, as part of broader efforts to maintain public order and enforce local regulations. Officials emphasise a firm yet humane approach to tackling such issues, including illegal traffic direction, to foster a disciplined and safe community environment.

Gorontalo Provincial Secretary Invites HIPMI to Seize Investment Opportunities

The Secretary of Gorontalo Province, Sofian Ibrahim, urged members of the Indonesian Young Entrepreneurs Association (HIPMI) to actively pursue strategic investment opportunities, including an integrated chicken downstreaming programme valued at over Rp3 trillion and the construction of Red White Fishermen's Villages at 76 locations costing Rp1.4 trillion. He highlighted untapped potential in filling empty cargo flights with local products and noted the province's robust 7.68% economic growth in the first quarter of 2026, surpassing the national rate, while emphasising the need to shift 61% of the informal workforce to formal sectors. This call aligns with the vision of Golden Gorontalo 2045, supported by social, governance, and economic transformations.

KDM to Organise Arts and Culture Facilities in West Java, Follow-up After Cultural Parade

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has announced plans to enhance arts and culture facilities in the province following the Milangkala Tatar Sunda Cultural Parade in Bogor. Initiatives include renovating the Pajajaran Museum with a budget of Rp9 billion and improving infrastructure along the parade route, such as roads, sidewalks, lighting, and parks, to be named Palataran Binokasih. The event, which featured the Mahkota Binokasih Sanghyang Pake crown and attracted thousands of participants from across West Java and neighbouring regions, underscores efforts to preserve and promote Sunda cultural heritage for future generations.