Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 12 May 2026

Showing 201-250 of 1,617 articles

Canadian Students Travel to Bogor to Learn Waste Processing with Maggots

Three students from the University of British Columbia visited Bank Sampah Siliwangi in Bogor to study waste processing using Black Soldier Fly maggots in collaboration with IPB. They praised the method's natural approach, which not only decomposes organic waste but also produces animal feed and organic fertiliser, while emphasising community education on environmental protection. The initiative, initially met with disgust by locals, has gained acceptance for its effective role in reducing waste at the source.

Constitutional Court Rejects Challenge to IKN Law, Affirms Jakarta Remains the Capital

The Constitutional Court (MK) has rejected a challenge to the Capital City Law (UU IKN), confirming that Jakarta continues to serve as Indonesia's capital city until an official presidential decision relocates it to Nusantara. The court clarified that concerns over the status of the Special Capital Region of Jakarta (DKJ) are unfounded, as the law's provisions must be interpreted holistically, ensuring no legal vacuum or uncertainty. This ruling supports the ongoing planning for the capital's relocation while maintaining Jakarta's current role.

Law Minister Bridges Campus Research into New "Money Machine" for the Nation

Indonesia's Minister of Law and Human Rights, Supratman Andi Agtas, has positioned the government as a mediator to connect academic researchers with the national industry sector, ensuring that university research transforms into economic assets through robust intellectual property protection. This initiative includes streamlined patent registration processes in collaboration with the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) and local governments, aiming to foster a knowledge-based economy that enhances Indonesia's global competitiveness. Academic Rocky Gerung emphasised the need to convert Indonesia's rich biodiversity into intellectual property and redirect education endowment funds like LPDP towards major universities to boost patent production and business opportunities.

At UN Headquarters, Forestry Minister Conveys Prabowo's Commitment to Strengthen Forest Governance

Indonesia's Forestry Minister, Raja Juli, addressed the 21st United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF21) in New York, outlining President Prabowo Subianto's commitment to enhancing forest governance as integral to global climate action, biodiversity conservation, economic resilience, and sustainable development. He emphasised that forests are not merely resources but the foundation for future generations and national economic strength. The participation highlights Indonesia's achievements in maintaining national forest cover and promoting inclusive, accountable forest management while balancing ecosystem protection with community welfare, reinforcing the country's strategic role as a major tropical forest owner in nature-based climate solutions.

Indonesia Gives Citizens Six Months to Return Assets Held Abroad

Indonesian Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has issued a six-month deadline for citizens to repatriate assets held abroad, with strict enforcement and no tax amnesty available. Non-compliance will result in consequences such as restrictions on business activities in Indonesia, aiming to ensure tax obligations are met without further amnesties like the previous Voluntary Disclosure Program. This policy underscores the government's commitment to tax compliance following the completion of prior amnesty phases in 2016-2017 and 2022.

Economist: Rupiah Pressure and Oil Prices Could Add Rp200 T to Deficit

Josua Pardede, Chief Economist at Permata Bank, warns that surging crude oil prices and a weakening rupiah could inflate Indonesia's 2026 state budget deficit by over Rp200 trillion, based on simulations assuming an exchange rate of Rp17,400 per US dollar and oil at USD100 per barrel. This escalation, beyond the budgeted deficit of Rp689.1 trillion (2.68% of GDP), stems from higher energy import costs, subsidies, inflation, and logistics pressures, exacerbated by current Brent oil prices near USD86 per barrel—well above the assumed USD70. While a fiscal buffer of Rp420 trillion in surplus provides some cushion, prolonged geopolitical tensions in the Middle East could push oil prices to USD130 per barrel, eroding fiscal space and necessitating prioritised spending on productive sectors to sustain economic growth.

ATR/BPN and KPK Select North Sulawesi as Pilot for Land Service Transformation

The Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) and the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) have chosen North Sulawesi as a pilot site for transforming land services, following successful implementations in South and Southeast Sulawesi. This collaboration, initiated by Minister Nusron Wahid in October 2025, focuses on improving public land services, managing regional assets, and optimising local revenues to prevent corruption and enhance spatial planning. North Sulawesi Governor Yulius Selvanus Komaling emphasised the need for action to resolve persistent land issues, with the coordination meeting resulting in signed commitments from local leaders, ATR/BPN, and KPK to strengthen land and spatial services across the province.

32,000 New Students to Enrol in Sekolah Rakyat by Mid-2026

Indonesia's Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf has announced that 32,000 new students will join the free residential Sekolah Rakyat programme in July 2026, doubling the intake from the previous year's 15,000 and bringing the total to over 46,000 students aimed at children from extremely poor families under President Prabowo Subianto's administration. In a separate development, the ministry has halted social aid payments to over 11,000 recipients in early 2026 for engaging in online gambling, with data sourced from the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (PPATK), marking a significant reduction from the 600,000 cases identified in 2025. These measures underscore the government's commitment to targeted welfare distribution and educational access for the underprivileged.

Aggravating Factors Leading to Ibam's 4-Year Sentence: Corruption in Chromebook Procurement During Covid-19

The Jakarta Corruption Court sentenced former technology consultant Ibrahim Arief, known as Ibam, to four years in prison and a fine of Rp 500 million for his role in the alleged corruption of Chromebook laptop procurement during the Covid-19 pandemic. The court highlighted the dual impact of financial losses to the state amounting to Rp 4.6 trillion and the hindrance to equitable education for Indonesian children as key aggravating factors, while noting that Ibam did not receive direct funds and was not a primary policymaker. This verdict underscores the judiciary's commitment to combating corruption in public sector projects, particularly those aimed at supporting education amid national crises.

Promise to Resolve Investment Barriers via P2SP Task Force, Purbaya Invites Investors to Enter Indonesia

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has invited global investors to Indonesia, pledging to eliminate business obstacles through the Debottlenecking Task Force under the Strategic Government Programme Acceleration (P2SP). At an international seminar, he outlined a mechanism for direct dialogue between businesses and policymakers, with weekly sessions addressing 1-2 cases to resolve complaints swiftly. Since its launch in December 2025, the initiative has handled 142 complaints, resolving 45, aiming to enhance the investment climate within a year.

Purbaya Introduces Debottlenecking Task Force to Global Investors, Claims It Will Accelerate Investments...

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has introduced the Strategic Government Program Acceleration Task Force (Satgas P2SP) to global investors during an international seminar, highlighting its role in resolving business bottlenecks to expedite investment realisation in Indonesia. The task force, operational since December 2025, addresses permitting and administrative hurdles through coordinated inter-ministerial efforts and imposes sanctions on inefficient government entities. Purbaya emphasised that this initiative could unlock over $30 billion in stalled investments, including a major $40 billion project in Sumatra, thereby enhancing investor confidence and promoting Indonesia as an investment-friendly destination.

Indonesian government removes 11,000 aid recipients over online gambling

The Indonesian Social Affairs Ministry has delisted over 11,000 social aid beneficiaries in the first half of the year for involvement in online gambling, a sharp decline from 600,000 cases last year, following data-matching with the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center (PPATK). While some recipients were reinstated after verification with warnings against repetition, the government plans to permanently blacklist deliberate misusers and enhance monitoring in coordination with regional authorities to ensure aid reaches eligible individuals. This initiative underscores efforts to promote responsible use of public funds, particularly among the poor, and prevent the diversion of assistance to illicit activities.

Summarecon and Sumitomo Forestry Introduce French-Style Classic Homes in New Rinoka Cluster

Summarecon Mutiara Makassar has launched the New Cluster Rinoka, an exclusive residential development in collaboration with PT Sumitomo Forestry Indonesia, featuring elegant French-inspired classic homes designed for modern family living. The project combines Summarecon's 50 years of experience in integrated city developments with Sumitomo's expertise in building over 20,000 homes annually worldwide, offering two-storey houses in Paris (9x14m) and Lyon (7x14m) types with prices ranging from Rp 1.9 billion to Rp 3.6 billion. This initiative underscores a strategic partnership since 2021, aiming to deliver high-quality construction standards and long-term investment value in the growing city of Makassar.

JCI Dips to 6,765 Level Today

The Composite Stock Price Index (JCI) fell to 6,765.54 during trading today before closing at 6,858.9, down 0.68% from the opening level of 6,905.62. Analysts attribute the decline to the rupiah's weakening to Rp17,500 per US dollar and anticipated reductions in weighting by MSCI, compounded by rising 10-year government bond yields to 6.72% amid oil price increases and global bond yield surges. Year-to-date, the JCI has dropped 20.68% from its 2026 starting point of 8,646.94, influenced by negative sentiments from international rating agencies.

Residents Visit Warehouse of 1,494 Illegal Motorcycles in South Jakarta to Search for Missing Vehicles

Following the high-profile case of illegal motorcycle storage in Kebayoran Lama, South Jakarta, numerous residents have begun visiting the seized warehouse containing thousands of vehicles, hoping to locate their stolen or missing bikes. Local witnesses report that people are inquiring about access but are being denied entry by security, while passersby stop to observe the now-secured site that has gone viral on social media. The incident underscores the scale of vehicle theft operations in the capital, with some residents shocked to learn that the seemingly new motorcycles inside were proceeds of crime.

DPRD Pushes BPK to Audit Blok M Parking Amid Suspected Rp 50 Billion Loss

The Special Committee on Parking of the DKI Jakarta DPRD is advocating for the involvement of the Financial Audit Board (BPK) to investigate alleged revenue leakages in the Blok M parking area, South Jakarta, where state losses are estimated at Rp 50 billion over 15 years of management by operator Best Parking. The committee plans to collaborate with the Jakarta High Prosecutor's Office due to the parking managers' lack of cooperation in providing financial data, including reports, balance sheets, and tax payments. This move highlights ongoing concerns over the mismanagement of local government assets and the failure to remit at least 60% of actual parking turnover to regional revenues.

DPRD Special Committee Says BPK Audit Crucial Due to Blok M in South Jakarta Being Regional Government Asset

The Special Committee on Parking of the DKI Jakarta DPRD has emphasised the importance of involving the Financial Audit Board (BPK) to investigate alleged revenue leaks from parking operations in the Blok M area of South Jakarta, as it involves regional government assets. The committee plans to recommend audits to law enforcement and the BPK, and is also coordinating with the Jakarta High Prosecutor's Office to probe non-cooperative parking managers who have withheld financial data. DPRD suspects that the state has incurred losses of up to Rp 50 billion over 15 years due to underreported parking revenues, which fail to reach 60% of actual turnover entering the regional budget.

Role of State-Owned Enterprises in 5.61% Economic Growth: Here's the Evidence

Indonesia's economy grew by 5.61% in the first quarter of 2026, with state-owned enterprises (SOEs) playing a crucial role, particularly blue-chip firms in banking, energy, telecommunications, and mining. Experts highlight contributions from Himbara banks in maintaining liquidity and financing, MIND ID's export boosts and downstreaming efforts, as well as Pertamina and Telkom in supporting energy and digital connectivity. However, overall SOE impact remains suboptimal due to reliance on large firms, with potential for greater growth through accelerated investments in high-value downstream sectors like electric vehicle batteries via the Indonesia Battery Corporation consortium.

Gus Rozin Speaks Out on Religious Affairs Minister's Potential Candidacy for NU Chairman, Reminds of This Fundamental Matter

KH Abdul Ghaffar Rozin, Chairman of the Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Central Java branch, has responded to suggestions that Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar could become the next General Chairman of PBNU at the 35th Congress, describing such speculation as normal within the organisation's dynamics. He emphasised that if elected, the minister must commit to resigning from his public office, arguing that the demanding role of NU leadership cannot be effectively combined with major governmental responsibilities. Rozin noted that he has not yet examined the NU bylaws regarding ministers running for such positions, highlighting ongoing fluidity in the candidacy process.

Bareskrim Investigates Drug Kingpin Ishak Case, Involving Former Kubar Narcotics Unit Chief

Indonesia's National Police Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has taken over the investigation into a drug syndicate led by Ishak following new evidence implicating former Kutai Barat Police Narcotics Unit Chief AKP Deky Jonathan Sasiang in the illegal operations. The case was initially uncovered by Melak Police Sector on 11 February 2026, highlighting potential corruption within local law enforcement. This development underscores ongoing efforts to dismantle drug networks and address internal police misconduct.

Why Did the MK Declare the Internet Quota Expiry Petition No. 87 Unclear?

The Constitutional Court (MK) of Indonesia rejected petition number 87/PUU-XXIV/2026 regarding the expiry of internet quotas, deeming it unclear and obscure. The court cited three main reasons: the petition's vague reference to constitutional articles, insufficient explanation of the petitioner's legal standing, and inadequate elaboration on how the challenged provisions contradict the constitution. This decision highlights ongoing legal challenges related to consumer rights in telecommunications, with similar petitions still pending.

Trump says US-Iran ceasefire is in "very critical" condition

US President Donald Trump has described the ongoing US-Iran ceasefire as being in a "very critical" state, akin to being on massive life support, indicating Washington's commitment to diplomacy despite rejecting Tehran's latest proposal. Trump criticised Iran's response to the White House peace plan as unacceptable and insisted that any agreement must include Iran's pledge to end its nuclear programme, accusing Tehran of reneging on commitments to surrender enriched uranium buried under the ruins of a US-attacked nuclear facility in June 2025. Additionally, Trump is considering restarting Project Freedom to escort commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing skirmishes between US and Iranian forces since the ceasefire began last month.

Deputy Minister of PANRB Emphasises the Importance of Cross-Agency Collaboration in Implementing People's Schools

Deputy Minister for State Apparatus Utilisation and Bureaucratic Reform, Purwadi Arianto, visited Sekolah Rakyat Menengah Pertama (SRMP) 19 in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, highlighting how the President's Quick Best Results Programme in education expands opportunities for underprivileged children. He praised the cross-agency collaboration involving the Ministry of Social Affairs, provincial and city governments, educators, and school managers, which fosters character, independence, discipline, and confidence through dormitory-based learning. The initiative's success is measured not by the number of schools built but by the futures it opens for Indonesian children, as echoed by the school's principal who thanked President Prabowo for the programme's role in improving educational access.

Satgas PASTI halts Magento's business activities for impersonation

The Task Force for Eradicating Illegal Financial Activities (Satgas PASTI) has shut down Magento's operations due to suspected fraud involving impersonation of Adobe Inc.'s Magento Commerce software, a legitimate US-based e-commerce platform. Investigations revealed that Magento lacks legal entity status in Indonesia and its app or website is not registered as an Electronic System Operator with the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs. Satgas PASTI will block access to related applications and URLs, coordinate with law enforcement for further action, and urges affected individuals to report to authorities.

Indonesians urged to save fuel amid global energy crisis

Satya Widya Yudha from the National Energy Council has called on Indonesians to adopt energy-efficient lifestyles, such as using public transport and electric vehicles, to lessen the country's reliance on imported fuel amid the global energy crisis. He highlighted that such measures could significantly reduce import burdens and fuel consumption, while affirming that Indonesia's energy security remains stable with reserves covering 21 to 28 days. The government is bolstering long-term resilience through legal frameworks, accelerated domestic production, and alternative energy development to enhance national energy independence.

Story of Posyandu Cadre Visited by 'Thug' for Child Immunisation

In Indonesia, approximately 2.3 million children remain unvaccinated, ranking the country sixth globally for zero-dose children, exacerbated by geographical, social challenges, vaccine hesitancy, and misinformation. Posyandu cadres in Bandung face significant obstacles, including parental refusals due to fears of side effects, confrontations with intimidating residents, and the need for home visits, yet they persist through persuasive efforts and small incentives. The government relies on these voluntary community health workers to boost immunisation coverage, praising their dedication amid ongoing issues like post-Covid disruptions and religious misconceptions.

Coordinating Minister for Politics and Security Appreciates Navy for Thwarting Smuggling Attempts

The Coordinating Minister for Politics and Security, Djamari Chaniago, praised the Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) for successfully preventing various smuggling operations throughout 2025, saving the state over Rp14.75 trillion in potential losses. He emphasised the need for continued vigilance given Indonesia's vast maritime borders and urged enhanced surveillance to curb illegal activities, including the smuggling of illegal migrant workers. The achievements were attributed to strong collaboration between TNI AL, customs authorities, police, and other stakeholders, with the highest seizures occurring in May 2025.

Purbaya: Debottlenecking to Accelerate Investment up to 30 Billion USD - ANTARA News

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has stated that the debottlenecking channel established by the Task Force for Accelerating Strategic Government Programmes could unlock over 30 billion USD in investments by resolving business and permitting obstacles. He also highlighted a long-stalled project near Sumatra worth around 40 billion USD, which the government aims to fast-track through this mechanism. The initiative seeks to enhance transparency and efficiency, thereby improving Indonesia's global investment climate.

No Debts, This is the Amount of President Prabowo's Assets

President Prabowo Subianto has declared assets worth Rp 2 trillion in his latest periodic wealth report submitted to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), with the majority comprising securities valued at Rp 1.6 trillion. The KPK has verified and published the report on its official website, emphasising its role in promoting transparency and serving as a positive example for other public officials in preventing corruption. Notably, the president's assets include no outstanding debts, highlighting his financial compliance amid Indonesia's ongoing anti-corruption efforts.

Indonesia's Foreign Minister to Attend BRICS FMM in India

Indonesia's Foreign Minister Sugiono is scheduled to attend the BRICS Foreign Ministers' Meeting (FMM) in New Delhi, India, on 14-15 May 2026, where discussions will focus on global and regional issues, including sustainability, digital economy, resilience, innovation, and global governance reforms. During the meeting, Indonesia will reaffirm its strong commitment to active participation in BRICS and advocate for the group's constructive role in promoting peace and upholding international law. The event, hosted by India and led by Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar, will also feature a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and themed sessions on building resilience and reforming multilateral systems.

Illegal Motorcycle Warehouse in South Jakarta Has Operated Since 2022 Without RW Permit

An illegal motorcycle storage warehouse in South Jakarta's Grogol Utara neighbourhood has been operating since 2022 without any environmental or operational permits from the local RW (Neighbourhood Association) authorities. The RW chairman, Nasrullah, stated that no permit applications were ever received or recorded, and he only learned of the site's true purpose after a police raid gained widespread media attention. Local residents expressed surprise at the illegal activities, having assumed the facility was merely a distribution warehouse for legitimate showroom deliveries, with operations often visible only at night involving large containers.

Only 23 Percent of Jakarta Residents Use Public Transport, Students Key to Meeting Target

The Jakarta Transportation Agency is pushing to increase public transport usage in the capital, currently at 22-23 percent, with students identified as a strategic group to boost these figures through awareness campaigns. An event involving 2,000 junior and senior high school students introduced modern services like MRT, LRT, and TransJakarta, aiming to foster a culture of public transport reliance. The provincial government targets over 40 percent usage and mandates civil servants to use public options weekly, highlighting students' role as change agents for safer, more orderly mobility.

Long Holiday, KAI Yogyakarta Deploys 7 Extra Trains

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) Daerah Operasi 6 Yogyakarta is deploying seven additional trains to accommodate the surge in passengers during the national holiday and joint leave for the Ascension of Jesus Christ from 13 to 17 May 2026. This initiative supports public mobility during the extended weekend break, with trains ranging from economy to executive class available for booking up to 45 days in advance via official channels. The measure underscores the railway's role as a preferred transport option for family travel, emphasising safety, comfort, and punctuality amid holiday travel demands.

Two Judges' Dissenting Opinion: Ibam, Former Consultant to Nadiem, Should Have Been Acquitted

In a corruption case involving the procurement of Chromebook laptops and Chrome Device Management for Indonesia's Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, former consultant Ibrahim Arief (Ibam) was sentenced to four years in prison by a Jakarta anti-corruption court, but two out of five judges issued a dissenting opinion arguing for his acquittal. The dissenting judges contended that Ibam's general advisory inputs on technology were misinterpreted by ministry officials, with no evidence of lobbying, kickbacks, or malicious intent, and that his income and wealth increases were unrelated to the procurement. This ruling, lighter than the prosecutors' 15-year demand, highlights divisions in judicial interpretation of corruption charges against government consultants.

Emergency Response Period Over, Post-Disaster Handling in Sumatra Enters Recovery Phase

Indonesia's government has transitioned from the emergency response phase to recovery in disaster-affected areas of Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra, as announced by Interior Minister Tito Karnavian following a coordination meeting. Essential services including healthcare, electricity, and education are largely restored, with targeted repairs prioritised for schools and isolated regions supported by temporary generators. The central government has allocated an additional Rp 10.6 trillion in regional transfers to accelerate rehabilitation, ensuring funds are used effectively to meet urgent community needs.

Thousands of Tirta Hita Buleleng Customers Affected by Water Supply Disruption

Thousands of customers of Perumda Tirta Hita Buleleng in Bali are experiencing disruptions to their clean water supply due to repairs and pipeline network coupling as part of the redevelopment of Singaraja City's zero point area. The interruptions, affecting 14 urban villages from 11 May to 13 May 2026, stem from relocating and upgrading the main transmission line from Mumbul to Tegal Sari to address shallow pipe placements. To mitigate the impact, the company is distributing free water via tanker trucks, delivering 18 tanks since the previous day.

Global Oil Price Projections Remain High, Purbaya Accelerates Electric Vehicles

Indonesian Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa anticipates sustained high global oil prices due to ongoing Middle East conflicts, prompting the government to expedite incentives for electric vehicles to curb fuel imports and energy subsidies. He highlighted the risks to the state budget from high domestic fuel consumption and expressed pessimism about quick resolutions, potentially easing only by September 2026 amid US political agendas. Accelerating EV adoption would also optimise underutilised national electricity capacity, reducing PLN subsidies and enhancing grid efficiency.

MUI Requests Ministry of Hajj to Revise Circular, Reminds that Dam Must be Slaughtered in the Holy Land

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has issued an official letter to the Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Mochamad Irfan Yusuf, urging a revision to Circular Letter No. S-50/BN/2026 regarding Hajj types and dam payment procedures. Citing Fatwa No. 41 of 2011, MUI asserts that slaughtering sacrificial animals for Tamattu' or Qiran Hajj outside the Holy Land is invalid, as it forms an integral part of the prescribed Hajj rituals exemplified by the Prophet Muhammad. This reminder emphasises the obligatory nature of performing the sacrifice within the sacred precincts unless valid religious exemptions apply, potentially impacting Indonesian pilgrims' compliance with Islamic law.

Regency Completes Repair of Breakwater Embankment on Kelapa Dua Island

The Water Resources Sub-Department of the Thousand Islands Regency has completed repairs to a breakwater embankment on Kelapa Dua Island, which was damaged by high tides and waves several months ago. The 100-metre structure was reinforced by securing hollow cubes to prevent shifting, involving five personnel from the Blue Troops and taking place from 7 May 2026 until completion. This enhancement aims to protect coastal settlements from abrasion and tidal surges, with officials urging residents to maintain the facility for sustained functionality.

UAE's Secret Counterattack Targets Iran

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has reportedly launched covert retaliatory strikes against Iran, including an attack on an oil refinery on Lavan Island that caused a major fire and disrupted operations, in response to Iranian missile and drone assaults on UAE territory since late February. These Iranian attacks, numbering over 2,800, have inflicted significant economic damage on the UAE, leading to job losses and a strategic shift viewing Iran as a malevolent actor threatening its expat-based economy and stability. The US is said to quietly welcome UAE's direct involvement in the conflict, which could widen rifts among Gulf states as Iran seeks to isolate the UAE.

Deputy Minister of PAN-RB Views Collaboration as Key to Implementing People's Schools

The Deputy Minister for State Apparatus Empowerment and Bureaucratic Reform (WamenPAN-RB) has emphasised the crucial role of inter-agency collaboration in the successful implementation of the People's Schools programme, a presidential initiative aimed at expanding educational opportunities for children across Indonesia, particularly in underserved regions like East Nusa Tenggara. During a visit to SRMP 19 in Kupang, the Deputy Minister praised the joint efforts of the Social Ministry, local governments, educators, and school managers, highlighting how the boarding school model fosters character, independence, discipline, and confidence in young students. The programme, launched under President Prabowo, is seen as transformative in reaching previously inaccessible children, with hopes that it will not only build schools but also unlock brighter futures for Indonesian youth.

Prabowo's Wealth Reaches Rp2.066 Trillion for 2025 Period

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has disclosed President Prabowo Subianto's periodic wealth report for 2025, revealing total assets of approximately Rp2.066 trillion, accessible to the public via their online portal. The report includes significant real estate holdings, vehicles, securities, and cash equivalents, underscoring the president's compliance with transparency requirements. KPK praises this as a positive example for public officials in preventing corruption through accurate and timely asset disclosures.

Indonesian Army Explains Reasons for Banning Screening of 'Pesta Babi' Film in Ternate

The Indonesian Army has justified the disruption of a public screening of the documentary 'Pesta Babi' in Ternate, citing a lack of permits and concerns over sensitive content that could provoke ethnic, religious, racial, and inter-group (SARA) issues in the diverse community. Organisers, including the Alliance of Independent Journalists (AJI) Ternate and environmental journalists, condemned the action as an intimidation of free expression and democratic space, arguing that the peaceful event posed no threat and was protected under constitutional rights. This incident highlights ongoing tensions between security measures and freedoms of speech in Indonesia, potentially evoking memories of past censorship practices.

Victim of sexual violence in Pati applies for assistance from LPSK

A female student at Pondok Pesantren Tlogowungu in Pati, Central Java, suspected of being a victim of sexual violence, has applied for protection and legal assistance from the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK). The LPSK is coordinating with police, Islamic organisations, and local authorities to gather information and ensure victim support, amid reports of alleged intimidation and physical violence within the pesantren. This case highlights a concerning 37% rise in sexual violence cases reported to LPSK in 2025, totalling 1,776, underscoring the need for proactive protection in educational settings.

Head of National Library: Libraries Continue to Be Relevant for the Nation's Dignity

The Head of Indonesia's National Library, E. Aminudin Aziz, emphasised the enduring importance of libraries in preserving the nation's dignity during a national webinar marking National Book Day 2026. He questioned whether libraries remain essential as knowledge repositories after 46 years and advocated for their evolution beyond mere book storage to actively nurture cultural heritage and literacy. The event highlighted strategic roles of libraries in national development, publishing contributions, government policies, international best practices, and research-based academic perspectives to enhance future generations' quality.

Ibrahim Arief Sentenced to 4 Years in Prison for Corruption in Chromebook Case

Ibrahim Arief, a technology consultant at Indonesia's Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, has been sentenced to four years in prison and fined Rp500 million for his role in a corruption scandal involving the procurement of Chromebook laptops and Chrome Device Management systems. The court found that the procurement violated planning and principles, causing a state financial loss of Rp5.26 trillion during the 2020-2021 budget year, particularly impacting education during the COVID-19 pandemic. The sentence is significantly lighter than the prosecutors' demand of 15 years, as Arief was not proven to have received direct funds and played a technical advisory role rather than a policy-making one.

Aceh, the First Province to Exchange Land Data with the Central Government

The Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Aceh Provincial Government to enhance coordination in agrarian, land, and spatial planning matters, making Aceh the first province in Indonesia to establish a formal mechanism for integrated exchange of spatial data and information with the central government. This collaboration aims to strengthen land governance, accelerate strategic land programmes such as asset legalisation for communities and resolution of land disputes, and support business certainty for local farmers, particularly in Aceh's plantation sector. The agreement also promotes the optimisation of the Land Object of Agrarian Reform (TORA) programme through better-integrated spatial data management between regional and central authorities.

Illegal Motorcycle Warehouse in South Jakarta Camouflaged as Ordinary Storage, Locals Even Once Left Vehicles There

An illegal motorcycle storage warehouse in South Jakarta's Kebayoran Lama district has been operating under the guise of a regular warehouse for nearly four years, evading suspicion from nearby residents. Locals, including one who temporarily stored their motorbike there during a holiday trip, perceived the site as legitimate, with workers claiming the vehicles were factory-sourced for export. The discovery highlights vulnerabilities in urban surveillance and the sophistication of criminal operations involving stolen goods.

Pattimura Toll Access Under Construction, Making Journey from Jakarta to Salatiga Easier

The construction of the Pattimura Toll Access in Salatiga, Central Java, has commenced, aiming to provide a direct link from the Semarang-Solo Toll Road to the city centre, enhancing connectivity for vehicles from Semarang and Jakarta. Overseen by the Ministry of Public Works through BPJT and executed by PT Trans Marga Jateng, the project is budgeted at Rp 113.35 billion and is slated for completion in 2027, featuring 1.66 km of ramps and additional infrastructure improvements. This development is expected to streamline travel efficiency, reduce detours, and bolster regional economic growth as part of the broader Trans-Java toll network.

Vice President Gibran Inspects Progress of MRT Phase 2A Harmoni-Sawah Besar

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka visited the MRT Harmoni-Sawah Besar tunnel in Jakarta to review the progress of Phase 2A of the Jakarta MRT project from Bundaran HI to Kota. As of 12 May 2026, the construction has reached 59.7 per cent completion, with the Bundaran HI-Monas route targeted for operation by the end of 2027 and the Monas-Kota section by the end of 2029. This inspection underscores the government's commitment to enhancing urban public transportation infrastructure on schedule.