Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 20 May 2026

Showing 1-500 of 2,393 articles

Police raid pesantren linked to suspect in molestation of students in Ponorogo

Police from Ponorogo's Criminal Investigation Unit raided a pesantren in the Jambon district after the head of the school, identified as JY (55), was named a suspect in alleged sexual abuse of more than a dozen students. Investigators seized evidence including mattresses, documents and tissues and found victims may have been abused more than once; the suspect allegedly used offers of free education and money to lure them. Victims are receiving intensive support, with police coordinating with the local Social Service and psychology teams; charges include sexual violence and provisions of the Penal Code. The pesantren's operations are being referred to the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

Jakarta Barat City Government Facilitates Company Interviews with Job Seekers

The West Jakarta City Government (Pemkot Jakbar) through its Office of Manpower, Transmigration and Energy will host a two-day 'Jakbar Career Day Walk in Interview', enabling job seekers to interview with four companies on 25-26 May 2026. Participants must register via the Sudin Nakertransgi Jakbar Instagram, bring CVs and documents, and wear formal attire; the event is free of charge and aims to reduce unemployment in West Jakarta.

Satellite Imagery Reveals Landscape Destruction at Site of Nine Deaths in Illegal Gold Mine, Sijunjung

High-resolution satellite imagery analysed by Walhi Sumatra Barat shows widespread environmental damage at an illegal gold mining site in Guguak, Sijunjung, suspected to be the source of a deadly landslide that killed at least nine workers. The time-series from 2021–2024 shows a progression from natural vegetation to open-pit mining with unstable slopes and sediment-laden rivers, prompting calls for enforcement and closure of PETI activities and investigations into financial flows behind illegal mining.

Government judged to have successfully maintained momentum in national investment

The Brigade Rakyat Garuda Merah Putih's chairman and secretary-general praised Rosan Roeslani for sustaining investment momentum and keeping the national climate conducive amid a challenging global environment. They said the achievement signals Indonesia's continued appeal as an investment destination, supported by policy certainty and solid fundamentals. They called for continued focus on quality investment, downstream industrial development, and infrastructure to create jobs and boost the economy.

Kodim Rejang Lebong completes construction of the Garuda Suspension Bridge

Kodim 0409/Rejang Lebong has completed 100% of the Garuda Suspension Bridge in Dwi Tunggal, Curup, Bengkulu, which spans 72 metres and is 1.2 metres wide, benefiting around 541 households (over 1,040 residents). A second bridge project in Lubuk Bingin Baru is about 80% finished and set to be completed next week, with expected positive impact on local economy and agricultural logistics.

South Jakarta cervical cancer survivor serves as a palliative care volunteer for 11 years

A cervical cancer survivor in South Jakarta has spent 11 years as a palliative care cadre in the Mampang Prapatan district, dedicating herself to public health. She cites initial despair at diagnosis and ongoing challenges such as ambulance shortages, hospital scheduling gaps, and BPJS administration, while the city plans to recognise cadres in 2026 with allowances and other support.

Chinese Zodiac Forecast for Thursday, 21 May 2026: Rat, Rooster and Goat

Thursday, 21 May 2026 brings warnings and opportunities for the Rat, Rooster and Goat signs under the Year of the Fire Horse. The forecast emphasises balancing action with reflection, with the Rupiah's domestic stability supporting measured financial decisions and practical diversification into assets such as digital holdings or gold.

Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Ensures Ready-to-Eat Meals for Pilgrims Can Be Eaten Directly

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has confirmed that Ready to Eat meals provided for pilgrims during Armuzna can be eaten directly without cooking or heating. The packaging is designed to double as a dining container, and staff will be on hand to educate pilgrims unfamiliar with RTE meals.

DWP North Sumatra Urges Women to Courageously Report Domestic Violence

North Sumatra's Dharma Wanita Persatuan (DWP) has urged women to speak out against domestic violence and to report it. The event highlighted that many cases go unreported, with 68.8% of 1,360 victims being children, and stressed the need for safe spaces and public education. DWP urged collective action under the theme 'Dare to Report, Dare to Save'.

Central Jakarta City Government Urges Residents to Resume Sorting Waste at the Source

The Central Jakarta City Government has urged residents to re-commit to sorting waste at the source as Jakarta faces a waste emergency following Bantargebang's overload. The move is part of a province-wide programme under Governor's Instruction 5 of 2026, emphasising household-level waste separation and cooperation across communities to relieve Bantargebang TPST. Officials acknowledge the effort has yet to reach full execution and are calling for broad participation.

Semarang police officer sentenced to six years' imprisonment for death of female lecturer

A Semarang court has sentenced AKBP Basuki, a serving police officer, to six years in prison for negligence resulting in the death of a female university lecturer identified as DL. The verdict exceeded the prosecutors' five-year request. Basuki plans to appeal, while prosecutors are to decide their next steps.

KPK Nets 1,880 Corruption Suspects After 22 Years

The Indonesian anti-graft agency KPK disclosed that over its 22-year existence it has named 1,880 suspects in corruption cases, comprising 1,720 men and 160 women. Senior officials warned that proceeds from corruption are often laundered (TPPU) and diverted to families and intimate partners, with some cases involving multiple channels. The disclosures come alongside descriptions of how money is hidden and moved.

DPRD Commission D urges the Provincial Government to optimise TPS3R for waste management in Jakarta

Jakarta's DPRD Commission D has urged the DKI Jakarta Environment Agency to optimise TPS 3R sites across the capital to improve waste management. They warn that Bantargebang's waste disposal restrictions from August 2026 require parallel strategies, including source separation and scaling up 3R facilities; the head of DLH admits current TPS 3R capacity is far short of targets.

KPK Warns of Hurdles in Legal Proceedings If State Loss Is Calculated Solely by the BPK

The KPK warns that legal proceedings could face bottlenecks if state losses are calculated only by the Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK), given expected demand from police, prosecutors and the KPK. The Constitutional Court previously ruled that BPK is authorised to determine state losses in such cases, in line with Article 603 of Law No. 1/2023 and Article 23E(1) of the 1945 Constitution, in MK Decision 28/PUU-XXIV/2026, in a case brought by two students challenging the legislation.

Great Institute: Prabowo's speech emphasises commitment to keeping the 2027 fiscal stance prudent

The Great Institute praised President Prabowo Subianto's speech to the DPR, which reaffirmed the government's commitment to keeping the 2027 fiscal direction prudent amid a challenging global environment. The speech linked the 2027 APBN to protecting citizens, strengthening macroeconomics, and addressing structural weaknesses, while highlighting the need for stronger revenue collection and tighter governance to sustain fiscal space. Executing reforms, particularly in revenue, export oversight, cross-agency data integration, and customs and tax administration, will be crucial to finance priority programs without increasing fiscal vulnerability.

When is Tarwiyah Fasting in 2026? Schedule, Niyyah, Procedures, and Merits

Tarwiyah fasting is a Sunnah mu’akkadah observed on the 8th of Dhu al-Hijjah, a day before the Arafah fast and Eid al-Adha. The article sets out the 2026 dates, the niyyah (intention) in Arabic, the procedure from pre-dawn suhoor to breaking the fast, and the accompanying duas. It also highlights the spiritual merits, including drawing closer to Allah and following the Prophet’s example.

Law Minister: President stresses justice must be felt by the people

President Prabowo Subianto reiterates that justice must be accessible to all segments of Indonesian society. At the inauguration of 393 Posbankum posts for villages and urban villages across the Babel Islands, the government emphasises universal access to justice as part of the Asta Cita mission.

US–China Trade Improves, Beijing Accepts Limited Tariff Increase

China and the United States signal stabilising trade relations, with Beijing prepared to accept US tariff increases up to a level agreed last year as talks to extend the trade truce continue. The bilateral working teams are examining a one-year extension of the Busan Summit pact, including tariff suspensions, rare earth restrictions, and a pause of shipbuilding investigations. Analysts say the extension could stabilise China's export outlook, but warn that global headwinds persist.

Minister of Law: Babel as a miniature of law enforcement in Indonesia

In Pangkalpinang, the Minister of Law described Bangka Belitung as a miniature of Indonesia’s law enforcement and announced the inauguration of 393 Posbankum legal aid posts across the Babel Islands to expand access to justice. The programme underscores the Serumpun Sebalai motto, emphasising harmonious coexistence and deliberation as a means to deliver fairer, closer, and more affordable justice.

Former BPK chair denies lack of independence in testimony at Nadiem's trial

Former BPK chair Agung Firman Sampurna rejected allegations of non-independence in his testimony at the Chromebook corruption trial involving Nadiem Anwar Makarim, insisting he spoke freely within his professional remit. A criminal law expert, Romli Atmasasmita, supported the stance and dismissed ethical concerns arising from a family link to Nadien's advisers.

Police interrogate model allegedly a mugging victim in West Jakarta

The Metro Jaya Police have interrogated a model and influencer identified by the initials AWS who was alleged to have been the victim of a mugging in West Jakarta. Police emphasise that AWS was not the victim of a crime, following joint investigations with specialist units and hospital checks; authorities urged social media users to avoid spreading misinformation. The investigation continues as officials review records and public posts.

Metro Jaya Police Arrest 16 Begal Suspects in Three Days

Over three days, Jakarta's Metro Jaya Police arrested 16 begal suspects as part of the Begal Hunters Team formed to curb street crime that circulated on social media. Authorities say CCTV integrated with the Jakarta provincial government and active neighbourhood watch posts aided the investigations, with evidence pointing to economic motives and drug addiction. The suspects face charges of robbery with violence and illegal firearm possession, carrying up to 15 years in prison.

Jasamarga repairs MBZ bridge junction to improve safety

PT Jasamarga Jalanlayang Cikampek (JJC) has begun repair work on the MBZ bridge junction and related road maintenance to enhance safety and driving comfort on the MBZ Elevated Section. The works run nightly from 22:00 to 05:00 WIB from today until 25 May 2026, with both directions operating normally and safety measures including signage, traffic controllers, and Dynamic Message Signs. Information is available 24 hours via the one-call centre at 133 and the Travoy app.

The Prophet's Scathing Rebuke for Bad Friends

The article explains Islamic guidance on choosing friends, highlighting the harms of negligent and gossipy companions and contrasting them with signs of good friendship. It cites the Hadith-rich Wasiyatul Musthafa describing behaviours to avoid and those to embrace, urging Muslims to surround themselves with sincerely oriented peers.

South Jakarta City Administration Calls on Women Entrepreneurs to Broaden Access to Global Markets

South Jakarta City Administration has urged the IWAPI branch to broaden global market access for women entrepreneurs, emphasising the importance of digital skills, networks and collaboration in a shifting market. The move forms part of a broader push to strengthen SME capacity, accelerate digital transformation, and promote energy-efficient product innovation. IWAPI leaders said the Rakercab theme on navigating business amid energy crises and global economic slowdown is highly relevant, highlighting resilience and inclusive collaboration.

Bahlil Assures No Cuts to Gas Export Quotas in 2026

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia pledges that 2026 will see no further reductions in gas export quotas, after 2025's adjustments to secure LNG for domestic use. He notes a domestic LNG shortfall of 50 cargoes in 2025 as domestic demand rose beyond government plans, and says all export contracts are now approved with arrangements for domestic buyers to back investment by KKKS.

Illegal Mining Takes Lives, Governor Mahyeldi Insists Gold Miners Must Obtain Permits

West Sumatra Governor Mahyeldi Ansharullah visited the Batu Gando area in Sijunjung to review illegal gold mining (PETI) following fatal accidents. He urged miners to obtain permits and highlighted government steps to formalise livelihoods under a People’s Mining Permit framework and the WPR scheme, emphasising safety and environmental protection.

Hoax about a model being robbed in West Jakarta turns out to be fake; police say the motive was mere mischief

Police say the hoax alleging that a model with the initials ADV was robbed along the Kebon Jeruk toll road in West Jakarta was created as a prank amid widespread discussion of robberies on social media. Investigations by a joint unit found no evidence that ADV was a victim or that any crime occurred; the model reportedly has no patient records in the past month, though psychological support was offered, and authorities urged the public to think before posting online.

Import Bribery: Prosecutor Reveals Meeting Between Director-General of Customs and John Field at a Hotel

In a Jakarta court case over import-related bribery, prosecutors revealed that a meeting took place at the Hotel Borobudur involving the Director-General of Customs, Blueray Cargo owner John Field, and a former head of enforcement. The meeting, held on 22 July 2025 near 8-9pm local time, is presented as part of evidence in the ongoing case, including details of an envelope marked 'Code 1' allegedly addressed to the Director-General and given to Rizal.

Swift Operation: Begal-Hunting Team Arrests 16 Suspects in Three Days

A Begal-hunting Team formed by the Metro Jaya Regional Police arrested 16 street criminals over three consecutive days across several areas. The operation yielded firearms and other evidence, with community watch groups and rapid public reporting cited as key to the crackdown. Police said motives included economic need and drug use, and the suspects face up to 15 years’ imprisonment under multiple articles.

13 Effects of Inadequate Fruit Consumption on the Body

Insufficient fruit consumption depletes essential vitamins, minerals and fibre, leaving the body more vulnerable to infections, digestive problems and dull skin. Regular fruit intake helps maintain energy, supports heart health and blood pressure, and provides antioxidants that protect cells. The piece also highlights citrus hesperidin and farming practices that preserve fruit quality, relevant during Ramadan.

Putin-Xi Jinping Alliance: Beijing Declaration Condemns U.S. Hegemony and Donald Trump

A high-level meeting in Beijing between Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping produced a joint declaration criticising United States policy and directly targeting Donald Trump, while extending the 2001 friendship treaty and opposing a US missile defence shield. The document also expands defensive rhetoric toward Latin America, reinforces Sino-Russian energy ties, and signals a broader challenge to Western hegemony amid ongoing tensions in Ukraine and the Middle East.

Prabowo: Our People Do Not Dream of Becoming Rich; They Want a Decent Life

President Prabowo Subianto says Indonesians aspire to a decent life rather than wealth, emphasising fundamental needs such as food, health, education and housing. He also outlines plans to intervene in fishermen communities with infrastructure including ice production, cold storage and dedicated SPBU over a three-year period.

Inkopontren Holds National Working Conference, Kiai Marsudi: Santris Must Become Economic Drivers

Inkopontren has reiterated its commitment to turning santris into entrepreneurs to bolster Indonesia's economy and the independence of the ummah. Chairman KH Marsudi Syuhud says the country has around 42,000 pesantren with significant potential for umat-based entrepreneurship, to be unlocked through modern, productive management. The organisation is partnering with the Merah Putih Cooperative programme to empower pesantren-based economies.

Expand Access to Justice, Minister Inaugurates 393 Legal Aid Posts in the Bangka Belitung Islands Province

Indonesia's Minister of Law and Human Rights Supratman Andi Agtas inaugurated 393 Legal Aid Posts at desa and kelurahan across the Bangka Belitung Islands Province to widen access to justice. The ceremony, held in Pangkalpinang on Wednesday night, referred to the President's reform agenda and the aim of delivering more equitable access to legal services nationwide. The governor urged local leaders to promote the program and push mediation to ease court caseloads.

Minister of Law inaugurates Legal Aid Posts across the Bangka Belitung Islands

The Indonesian Minister of Law, Supratman Andi Agtas, inaugurated 393 Legal Aid Posts (Pos Bantuan Hukum, Posbankum) at desa and kelurahan levels across the Bangka Belitung Islands to expand access to justice. The programme, linked to the president’s reform agenda, aims to provide mediation and case support to reduce court caseload; the governor urged broader socialisation of the scheme.

Wanam Food Estate Could Strengthen National Rice Self-Sufficiency

The Wanam food estate in Merauke, part of Indonesia's National Strategic Project, is argued to strengthen rice self-sufficiency and rural livelihoods. Proponents say the 1-million-hectare paddy-field programme supports food security amid global pressures, with environmental safeguards and completed facilities, while critics refer to a film critique; the government emphasises optimistic narratives.

National Awakening Day Momentum: UMJ Establishes I-CHIP to Safeguard Indonesia's Health Policy

Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta (UMJ) has launched the Indonesian Center for Health Evidence-Informed Policy (I-CHIP) on National Awakening Day, a transdisciplinary centre intended to strengthen Indonesia's health policy through evidence-based research, integrity and social justice. The centre aims to work collaboratively with other disciplines and national partners to address primary health care reform, equitable health financing, climate resilience, and national pharmaceutical independence.

Lawmakers press for immediate realisation of food aid distribution

A deputy chair of Commission IV has urged the rapid distribution of rice and MinyaKita oil to 33.2 million beneficiary households for February–March 2026, to ease burdens during Ramadan and Eid. He notes zero budget absorption up to May 2026 and questions why the programme has not been executed, calling for intensified coordination with Bulog and a concrete roadmap to stabilise prices.

BFI Finance approves total dividend distribution worth Rp1 trillion

BFI Finance has approved a total dividend of Rp1 trillion for the 2025 financial year from a net profit of Rp1.58 trillion. The dividend, amounting to Rp70.00 per share, includes an interim Rp35.00 cash dividend already paid and a final Rp35.00 cash dividend to be distributed on 18 June 2026. The company also reported a robust asset base and a NPF ratio below the industry average as of March 31, 2026, with Rp5.5 trillion of new financing in Q1 2026.

The '3S' Regulation Applied to Limit Children's Digital Access in Schools

The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education endorses a voluntary '3S' framework—screen time, screen zone and screen break—to curb pupils’ use of devices on school premises. Schools can implement these measures independently, including device-free zones and breaks that encourage physical activity, with an emphasis on protecting children in the digital space and ensuring family-home rule alignment.

Indonesian House of Representatives Approves Revision to Prolegnas 2026, 68 Priority Bills

During the 19th plenary session, the Indonesian House of Representatives approved the Second Revision of the Prolegnas Priority Programme for 2026. Baleg DPR RI said the working meeting with the Ministry of Law and Human Rights and the DPD RI’s Bill Drafting Committee set the total at 68 RUU for 2026, with four DPR-initiated bills added and other title changes; the evaluation also notes that an open cumulative list was not included. The move updates the government’s legislative agenda for 2025-2029 and aligns DPR-initiated measures with parliamentary priorities.

Subaks in Denpasar Shrink, Academics Warn of Threats to Environmental and Cultural Aspects

Denpasar's active Subak area has fallen to about 1,915 hectares across 42 subaks, threatening environmental and cultural dimensions as urban development encroaches on agricultural land. A Denpasar City official and an academic call for strict application of sustainable agriculture land policies, subsidies, and tourism linkages to support Subak networks.

Thursday Horoscope, 21 May 2026: Leo, Aries and Virgo

On Thursday 21 May 2026, Aries, Leo and Virgo balance personal ambition with emotional stability as planetary alignments shift. The article also notes the President leveraging National Awakening Day to safeguard economic stability, while the forecast highlights communication and potential professional opportunities.

Adahi Project Praised by Saudi Arabia, Indonesian Hajj Dam Governance Makes History

Saudi authorities have praised Indonesia's management of dam payments for Hajj pilgrims, crediting the official Adahi Project with greater transparency, safety and accountability. About 80,000 Indonesian pilgrims have paid their dam in Saudi Arabia via the Adahi Project, while around 20,000 more have completed payments domestically. The government emphasises respect for diverse fiqh views and will facilitate dam in line with believers' preferences through official channels.

PT Lintas Armada Indonesia distributes aid to four welfare homes in Jakarta

PT Lintas Armada Indonesia (LAI) distributed aid to two orphanages and two elderly care homes in Jakarta as part of its twice-yearly CSR programme. The company handed out essentials including 410 kilograms of rice, eggs, oil, canned goods and school supplies, starting with Panti Asuhan Adinda and Panti Sosial Bina Daksa Budhi Bakti in West Jakarta, with two more homes to receive aid the following day. Company owner Antonius Chandra said the initiative demonstrates care for those less economically fortunate and sets an example for other businesses.

Asset Recovery Agency of the Attorney General's Office destroys 14 watches owned by Jimmy Sutopo

The Asset Recovery Agency (BPA) of the Indonesian Attorney General's Office destroys 14 watches seized from convicted businessman Jimmy Sutopo in a corruption and money laundering case linked to PT Asabri's investment funds. The watches, deemed counterfeit after expert verification, include Cartier, Audemars Piguet, Patek Philippe, Hublot and Vacheron, and were removed from the State Seizure Goods list. The BPA Fair running 18-21 May 2026 also features auctions of luxury goods.

Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in Congo kills 139 as vaccines remain months away

The World Health Organization reports more than 600 suspected cases and 139 deaths, mainly in the Democratic Republic of Congo, linked to the Bundibugyo Ebola strain for which no vaccine exists. The outbreak is expanding with vaccines months away, and two American healthcare workers have been evacuated to Europe for specialist treatment. Indonesia confirms no Ebola cases at present.

Police Confirm Reports of a Model Being Mugged in Kebon Jeruk, West Jakarta, Are Hoaxes

Jakarta police have debunked social media claims that a model with initials ADV was mugged on the Kebon Jeruk Toll Road. A joint investigation by PPA-PPO units found the incident to be a hoax, with no ADV name registered in the last month; police have offered psychological support and urged prudent social-media use.

Hundreds of Batam Online Drivers Protest at Kepri Governor's Office, Here Are Their 10 Demands

Hundreds of ride-hailing drivers from Batam protested peacefully outside the Riau Islands governor's office, urging the government to resolve core issues in the sector, including the enforcement of minimum tariffs and social security. They demand the government address 10 main points, arguing that existing regulations are not properly implemented in practice.

Nine Indonesian Nationals Detained by Israel, Government Seeks Help from Jordan and Turkey

Indonesia's Foreign Minister says the government has asked Jordan and Turkey to relay messages to Israel and to verify the detention of nine Indonesian citizens seized by the Israeli military during a Gaza humanitarian mission. The Foreign Ministry is coordinating with regional missions to ensure the detainees' safety and either repatriation or deportation in good health, including three journalists among those detained.

Prabowo says Indonesian bureaucracy is embarrassing compared with Malaysia

President Prabowo Subianto criticises the complexity of Indonesia's investment licensing bureaucracy, contrasting it with Malaysia's faster approvals. He notes Malaysia can issue licences in around two weeks while Indonesia takes about two years, urging ministers to streamline processes to boost investment and growth.

OJK Issues Two New Regulations for Securities Firms and Investment Managers

Indonesia's financial regulator OJK has issued two new POJK regulations to strengthen the capital markets: POJK No. 3/2026 reorganises Securities Companies' activities into three PEKU levels with higher capital and governance requirements, and POJK No. 5/2026 tightens standards for Investment Managers through MIKU classifications and higher capital thresholds. The rules aim to bolster resilience, investor protection, and market depth amid rising product complexity and digitalisation.

Through a Book, the Deputy Police Chief Outlines a New Approach to Reading Threats in the Digital Era

A new book by Indonesia's Deputy Police Chief and two senior officers argues that security threats now evolve rapidly in digital spaces and must be read earlier and prevented through digital literacy, child protection, and cross-sector collaboration. The work reframes security as a collective responsibility, beyond police action alone.

Bribe Fees to Process Permit Applications at Serang City's BPN Office: Rp250,000–Rp500,000

The Serang State Prosecutor's Office has uncovered allegations of 'tactical money' bribes at Serang City's Land Office (BPN). Investigators say applicants pay illicit charges of Rp250,000–Rp500,000 per permit application, with total losses to the public exceeding Rp2 billion; the probe covers 2021–2026 and involves a former BPN head and five other officials across two clusters in the PHP and SP sections.

Serang District Prosecutor's Office Detains Six Officials and Former Head of BPN Over Gratification

Six officials, including the former head of the Serang City Land Office, have been detained by the Serang District Prosecutor's Office on suspicion of corruption via gratuities linked to land-document processing worth more than Rp2 billion. Investigators say strong evidence, including witness statements, documents and electronic traces, was secured; the suspects face anti-corruption charges and are being held for 20 days to prevent flight or interference with evidence.

Regional gaps in climate change reporting remain high

A collaborative study by MCCH, AIC and Hasanuddin University finds significant regional gaps in climate reporting in Indonesia, with few quotes from scientists and a heavy reliance on government and business sources. The project launches a programme to train 15 journalists from South Sulawesi to strengthen regional climate journalism, aiming for more data-driven, impactful reporting.

Police Arrest Six Begal Suspects in Jakarta and Depok, Two Shot in the Leg for Resisting

Six begal suspects were arrested over robberies across Jakarta and Depok, including an incident in Ciputat, South Tangerang. Police recovered firearms and other evidence, and two suspects were shot in the leg for resisting arrest. They face up to fifteen years' imprisonment under multiple provisions of the Indonesian Penal Code.

Jakarta's DKI Provincial Government Should Evaluate Rasuna Said Car Free Day With Involvement of Residents

The DKI Jakarta provincial government is urged to evaluate the Car Free Day on Jalan Rasuna Said ahead of its June rollout, by engaging road users, residents and businesses. A lawmaker says traffic studies alone are insufficient; the evaluation should be data-driven, inclusive and flexibly managed, with an integrated monitoring team and earlier socialisation.

New Technology Offers Safe and Efficient AI Integration for the Crypto Market

OKX has launched Agent TradeKit, an open-source MIT-licensed toolkit built on the MCP standard to bridge AI reasoning with programmatic crypto trading on centralized exchanges. It emphasises local security, permission-based tool registration, and a fully isolated Demo Mode for backtesting across Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Cambodia.

Jasa Marga Tebar Dividen Rp 1,1 Triliun, Investor Dapat Rp 156,2 per Saham

Jasa Marga has approved a dividend payout of Rp 1.1 trillion, or 31% of net profit for the 2025 financial year, to be distributed to shareholders on the record date 4 June 2026, with a dividend per share of Rp 156.2. The company also reported steady core profit and rising revenue, supported by toll income, and plans to retain the remainder as retained earnings.

Culture Minister Fadli Zon to Confirm Sardjito House Status

Culture Minister Fadli Zon said his ministry will confirm the status of the home of National Hero Sardjito in Terban, Yogyakarta, which is being sold by the family, and will explore potential public use such as turning it into a museum. He stressed that as private property the state has limited authority unless the site is designated as a cultural heritage site, and promised to seek full information.

MPR backs President's commitment to overhaul the governance of natural resource exports

The Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian MPR supports President Prabowo Subianto's plan to overhaul the governance of natural resource exports by establishing an export management agency. He cites Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution and highlights concerns over under-invoicing and transfer pricing, urging a transparent, well-communicated transition that strengthens national interests without harming business.

Don't Let Your Parents' Hopes Go to Waste — Gen Z Struggles to Find Work

Job seekers at Jakarta's Jakarta Job Fair voice concern that higher education alone does not guarantee employment, with a Civil Engineering graduate noting vacancies skewed toward sales and marketing. The piece underscores the importance of networking and calls for more opportunities for SMK graduates to widen entry points into the labour market. It also highlights the role of parental expectations in shaping young people's career choices.

Witness says John Field gave money to Bea Cukai officials as 'coordination money'

A witness in a Jakarta corruption court testified that John Field from Blueray Cargo allegedly provided money to Bea Cukai officials to be distributed as 'coordination money'. The testimony identifies three Blueray Cargo executives charged with bribery in the customs import case, with prosecutors alleging they supplied Singapore dollars totaling the Rupiah-equivalent of Rp 61.3 billion plus further facilities and luxury goods worth Rp 1.8 billion.

11 Reasons Your Motorbike Battery Drains Quickly

The piece lists 11 factors contributing to motorbike battery drain, including faulty charging components, constant electrical loads, aging batteries, and poor maintenance. It emphasises ensuring a stable charging system and avoiding excessive electrical loads to keep the battery reliable.

Thousands of Free Sembako Packages Distributed to Students in Central Kalimantan

The Central Kalimantan provincial government distributed 3,500 free sembako packages to students in Palangka Raya during a Pasar Murah event, each package containing two litres of cooking oil, one kilogram of sugar and five kilograms of rice, to help meet basic needs and stabilise prices.

PKH Task Force Achievements Praised; Key Points to Note

The article frames the PKH enforcement as a major test for agrarian justice and national sovereignty over natural resources. It quotes Azis Subekti on governance inconsistencies driving conflicts and calls PKH a reassertion of state authority over space. By May 2026, PKH reportedly contributed around Rp10.27 trillion to the state coffers from administrative fines and forest enforcement revenue.

Bali, NTB, and NTT Forecast to Hit Peak of Dry Season in August 2026

BMKG forecasts that August 2026 will mark the peak of Indonesia's dry season for about 61.4% of its Dry Season Zones, including Bali, NTB and parts of NTT, with a broader national peak in August. The agency also outlines preparations to monitor and mitigate drought and wildfire risks through enhanced weather forecasting, coordinated weather modification operations, and information dissemination, even as some regions may still experience rain in May 2026.

Rambutan Bus Terminal ramps up waste sorting to reduce burden on Bantargebang

Public space at Kampung Rambutan Bus Terminal is ramping up waste sorting and composting as part of a cross-agency effort to reduce the volume of waste sent to Bantargebang's final disposal site. The initiative engages Ciracas District authorities, environmental officers, and police, with around 50 participants trained in separating organics and non-organics and turning waste into compost. The terminal already provides a waste bank and composting facilities to improve cleanliness and the local environment for passengers, traders and staff.

Banjarmasin Embarkation Dispatches Final Hajj Group to the Holy City of Mecca

The Banjarmasin Embarkation in South Kalimantan has dispatched the final group, Group 19, of prospective pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj season, comprising 353 pilgrims and staff from 12 regions. The total number of pilgrims dispatched from this Embarkation for the season is 6,804, with 19 groups in total (14 from South Kalimantan and five from Central Kalimantan). The operation ran smoothly from 23 April to 21 May, and pilgrims are now in Mecca ahead of the Armuzna rites on 9 Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 H.

DPR Commission VII calls for regulatory body to oversee film screenings

Lamhot Sinaga argues for the establishment of an independent regulator under the Ministry of Creative Economy to ensure regional films have an equal opportunity to be shown in cinemas. He advocates a more equitable film screening regime and urges more educational and culturally promotional content from production houses.

Alhamdulillah, 15 Years of the ISSI Shariah Index: Seizing Opportunities in Sustainable Economic Valuation

The Indonesia Shariah Stock Index (ISSI) marks its fifteenth anniversary this year, having been launched on 12 May 2011. It now has 632 constituent stocks, with market capitalisation continuing to expand and constituents representing about 70% of listed companies, according to BEI's CFO for Finance, HR and General Affairs, Risa E. Rustan. The growth illustrates increasing integration of Shariah-compliant, sustainable valuation into Indonesia's equity market.

Hashim says Prabowo is the only Indonesian president with oil business experience

Hashim Djojohadikusumo, Special Presidential Envoy for Energy and Climate, says Prabowo Subianto is the only Indonesian president to have oil-industry business experience, citing his seven-year tenure as chairman of the board of Hashim's company involved in oil in Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan. He argues this background gives Prabowo direct insight into the challenges for oil and gas investors abroad and stresses the importance of legal certainty, fiscal terms, political stability, and security of investment to attract investment.

Japanese Consul-General outlines the unique work culture of its people at FISIP Unej

The Japanese Consul-General in Surabaya, Takonai Susumu, outlines Japan's distinctive work culture to students at FISIP Universitas Jember, emphasising long-term HR development and discipline. He cites Japan's projected GDP growth of 4.2% in 2025 and announces a grant of 174 English-language books to FISIP Unej. The event aims to broaden students' global outlook and strengthen academic ties with Japan.

Metro Jaya Police Confirm Muse Model in West Jakarta Was Not a Robbery Victim

Police in Jakarta say a Muse model identified as AJDV is not a victim of a mugging, countering social media rumours that circulated about a Kebon Jeruk incident. Authorities say the misinformation stemmed from a prank intended to glorify viral robbery reports; psychological support was provided and investigators concluded no criminal victimisation occurred. The public is urged to be prudent on social media, while hospital checks found no matching patient data.

Operasi “ SABER BERSINAR ” 2026, BNN Ungkap Sejumlah Kasus Narkotika Di Berbagai ...

Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) says Operation Saber Bersinar across multiple provinces led to 31 arrests and the seizure of substantial quantities of illicit drugs, including 136.5 kg of sabu, 147 kg of ganja, 1,260 ml of etomidate, 1,029 g of ketamine and 6,681 ecstasy pills. The crackdown, conducted with police, customs and other agencies, is projected to save about 353,312 people from drug abuse and value the seized assets at Rp211.4 billion. Highlights include a Aceh–Bogor network with 29 kg of sabu, a Kalimantan Timur haul of 92.1 kg sabu and 1,000 vape cartridges containing etomidate, and a transnational operation using couriers and cargo shipments that yielded around 13 kg sabu.

Catching of Suckermouth Catfish Intensified in Bogor Regency

In Bogor Regency, a field operation led by senior local government officials targeted the invasive suckermouth catfish in Situ Citatah, capturing over 220 kilograms in about an hour, distributing eco enzyme, and releasing 5,000 native fish to support river ecology. The exercise, part of World Environment Day preparations, underlines the administration’s commitment to river cleanliness and ecosystem health, while highlighting sedimentation and waste management as ongoing challenges.

IMA Responds to Plan for State-Owned Enterprises to Control Export of Natural Resources; Mineral and Coal Governance Must Remain Attractive

IMA has responded to government plans to appoint a state-owned enterprise as the sole exporter of natural resource outputs, including minerals and coal. The association emphasises the need for long-term contracts, legal certainty, and a stable investment climate to keep Indonesia's mining sector competitive while strengthening governance and state revenue. It calls for a thorough assessment balancing governance, revenue, and sustainability.

Foreign Minister says nine Indonesian nationals arrested by Israel are not a kidnapping or hostage-taking case

Indonesia's Foreign Minister says the detention of nine Indonesian nationals by Israel is not a kidnapping or hostage-taking case. He described the incident as the interception of a humanitarian ship, noting that Israel forbids ships from entering the area for any purpose, and he praised the volunteers' intent to alleviate Gaza's suffering.

Seven-year-old Boy in Jambi Missing After Being Swept Away by Currents While Bathing in a Ditch

A seven-year-old boy, Raffasya Aditya bin Amat Sabilan, is missing after being swept away in a ditch in Jambi while bathing with friends. Rescue teams from Basarnas and BPBD were deployed, but the search was halted at dusk and will resume the next morning; the incident underscores safety concerns around open water and the local emergency response.

Shanxi intensifies pursuit of energy cooperation with Indonesia

Shanxi Province, a major Chinese energy base, has extended its international outreach into Indonesia, led by the provincial Department of Commerce for the Indonesia International Coal & Energy Industry Expo (May 10–12, 2026). The delegation promoted Shanxi’s energy strengths and highlighted the China (Taiyuan) International Energy Industry Expo 2026 as part of expanding Belt and Road energy cooperation. The visit underscores growing China–Indonesia collaboration in energy, technology and investment as Shanxi seeks to diversify its energy sector.

Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas Ensures State Will Protect Indonesian Citizens Abducted by Zionist Israel

Indonesia's Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas says the government will guarantee the safety of Indonesian citizens abducted during the Global Sumud Flotilla to Gaza, and will coordinate with relevant ministries for rescue efforts, alongside protection for MT Honour 25 crew in Somali waters. The Foreign Ministry and Indonesian authorities are in ongoing contact with international partners as nine Indonesians, including two Republika journalists, are detained by Israeli forces.

Social Affairs Ministry Prepares Rp1 Trillion More Post-Disaster Aid for Aceh and North Sumatra

The Indonesian Social Affairs Ministry announced a further Rp1 trillion post-disaster relief package for Aceh and North Sumatra, with the first tranche already disbursed and subsequent funds to be allocated based on verified data from Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra. The package includes death and severe injury benefits, social–economic stimulus, home contents assistance and three months of livelihood security, while regular PKH and BPNT programmes continue. The Aceh government also seeks broader PBI JK coverage for about 800,000 residents and a Rp1.039 trillion ABT to accelerate recovery and growth in the region.

Mandiri Utama Finance Develops Waste Bank Programme in Rorotan

Mandiri Utama Finance has launched a waste bank programme in the Rorotan area of Cilincing, North Jakarta, in collaboration with Yayasan Kumala and the North Jakarta Environment Office, providing facilities and financial literacy education to convert household waste into economically valuable products; the initiative aims to improve local cleanliness and residents' economic welfare while reducing landfill burden at Bantar Gebang.

Ojol drivers back scrapping of GoRide Hemat, but wary of one concern

Ojol drivers welcome the scrapping of GoRide Hemat but fear potential adverse changes, saying any shift could affect near-distance partner services and earnings. One driver cites the 'langcor' subscription as a driver tool, and warns about new systems that might hurt drivers even more.

Bamsoet: The 2027 KEM-PPKF policy is a bold move to protect the public

Bamsoet praises President Prabowo's 2027 macroeconomic framework and the KEM-PPKF policy as a bold step to shield the public, emphasising fiscal discipline and a long-term growth plan amid global uncertainty.

Bogor Takes a Different Approach from Jakarta by Turning Sucker Catfish into Organic Fertiliser

Bogor Regency authorities are converting invasive sucker catfish captured at Situ Citatah in Cibinong into organic fertiliser. The process involves chopping and fermenting the fish, with the product intended for greening and maintenance of trees in public green spaces. The initiative, part of Bogor’s Civic Day celebrations and environmental focus ahead of World Environment Day, aims to control invasive species and restore the aquatic ecosystem.

A Look at the Timing and Registration Pathways for SPMB, SMA and SMK at Sekolah Maung 2026

West Java's 2026 SPMB for SMA and SMK starts on 18 May 2026, with applicant accounts issued 18–22 May and Sekolah Maung registration on 25–29 May. The programme uses three registration routes (academic potential 10%, academic competence 70%, non-academic 20%), with no zonation, and online registration via the Sekolah Maung app; the intake is 21,000 across 28 public SMAs and 13 public SMKs, with admission dates and re-enrolment set.

BNN arrests four drug dealers linked to Maboy network, 92 kg of meth seized in suitcases

The Indonesian National Narcotics Agency (BNN) says four suspects linked to the Maboy network were arrested in Balikpapan and Samarinda, with 92 kilograms of methamphetamine seized in suitcases. The operation, conducted with East Kalimantan police, also uncovered 1,000 vape cartridges containing etomidate and two cars and 12 communication devices; searches led to a Jakarta Selatan residence where assets were seized. Authorities say the Maboy network's leader, M. Fathurahman alias Maboy, is now a suspect and on the Wanted Persons List (DPO), with assets seized across Kalimantan, Java and Bali.

Coordinating Ministry for Community Empowerment (Kemenko PM) and UI Strengthen Research Synergy to Face the Middle-Income Trap

A national seminar in Depok showcases collaboration between the Coordinating Ministry for Community Empowerment and Universitas Indonesia, aiming to bridge policy and research to tackle the Middle-Income Trap. Around 300 participants from 44 ministries and national universities discussed concrete ways to align policy with evidence, with emphasis on empowering rural and marginalised areas as a driver of Indonesia’s economic transformation.

PPIH: All Aceh Hajj pilgrims have arrived safely in Makkah

All 5,484 Aceh Hajj pilgrims from 14 flight groups have arrived safely in Makkah. The final batch of 390 pilgrims arrived at 10:00 Saudi time; they are housed in Jarwal Sector Six near the Grand Mosque, with 24-hour shuttle shalawat buses. Health status is generally good, with nine still receiving treatment (four in Saudi hospitals) and 18 Aceh JCH unable to depart due to death or health issues.

State-Owned Enterprise for Export Governance Established, Rosan and Purbaya Reveal Impact on the Stock Market

Indonesia has established PT Danantara Sumber Daya Alam (DSI), a state-owned company to oversee export governance, following a government regulation. Officials Rosan Roeslani and Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa expect the move to improve transparency and reduce under-invoicing and transfer pricing, potentially lifting earnings visibility for exporters and boosting stock-market sentiment. They urged investors that the policy could be a positive signal and even a buying opportunity.

Prabowo Greets Demonstrators Outside the DPR Building After Plenary Session

President Prabowo Subianto greeted a peaceful demonstration outside the DPR/MPR complex after a plenary session. The event highlighted calls for a more inclusive, people-centric economy and alignment with constitutional principles, as demonstrators from Tani Merdeka Indonesia and APPSI urged protections for farmers, traders and MSMEs amid broader economic policy discussions.

Nine Tips for Tackling Dry Hair

The piece offers nine practical tips to counter dry hair, including moisturising routines, the use of conditioners, and the avoidance of heat. It also notes natural remedies and dietary suggestions, while briefly referencing a political line about the president linking National Awakening Day to economic stability.

Spare-parts prices at workshops rise, customers delay routine servicing to once every two months

Rising prices of motor vehicle spare parts are forcing customers to postpone routine servicing to bi-monthly intervals. In Jakarta, owners report higher servicing bills and are cutting back on tips or daily expenses to cope, while some choose to maintain service with tighter budgets.

NU's 35th Congress Expected to Be Free from Interference

The Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) is preparing for its 35th Congress amid a flurry of candidate names and political camps. A NU representative warns against any attempt to secure the blessing of the state or close ties to state networks, insisting the leadership should be chosen free of external influence. The piece highlights historic cautions about the independence of NU and cites Gus Dur’s guidance on keeping a safe distance from power, while noting initial support for President Prabowo Subianto as a potential custodian of NU autonomy.

Strengthening Community Policing to Tackle Motorcycle Gangs in Garut

A cohort of Sespimma Polri trainees is boosting community policing to address motorcycle gangs in Garut. The programme notes about 600 motor groups are known and registered, with more than 300 unregistered groups, and calls for cross-agency collaboration to curb youth crime and drug-related harm, emphasising preventive and holistic strategies alongside enforcement.

PWI and Polri target 10,000 journalists to participate in the UKW

The Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) and the National Police Headquarters (Mabes Polri) plan to train 10,000 journalists in the Journalist Competency Test (UKW), funded by the police budget, with a pilot underway in the Metro Jakarta area. A memorandum of understanding will be signed soon, and regional quotas will be introduced as the programme scales.

Global Electronic System Providers are expected to have offices in Indonesia to facilitate oversight

Indonesia's government is pushing global Electronic System Providers (PSEs) with large user bases to establish representative offices in Indonesia to ease regulatory oversight. A senior policy analyst notes that cross-border supervision is complex, and local presence would enable oversight akin to that for domestic companies; Roblox is highlighted as a key example. The minister indicates consideration of formalising this obligation to protect users from harmful content.

Researchers estimate Ebola cases in DR Congo exceed 800, surpassing official data.

Researchers from Imperial College London and the WHO estimate 400-800 Bundibugyo Ebola cases may have occurred in DR Congo by 17 May 2026, with the total potentially exceeding 1,000 due to data uncertainty. The analysis notes cross-border risk, including Uganda reporting an infection linked to Ituri Province, and WHO has declared the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, underscoring the need for intensified surveillance as security in Ituri hampers field access.

An alumnus abducted by Israel, UII urges swift government action

Universitas Islam Indonesia (UII) in Yogyakarta expresses grave concern over Israel's detention of humanitarian volunteers and journalists taking part in the Global Sumud Flotilla to Gaza. Among those seized is UII alumnus Bambang Noroyono, a journalist for Republika. UII calls for immediate government action, protection for journalists, and diplomatic steps to secure the safety and return of all Indonesian citizens involved.

Governor writes to BPJS to lift block on Aceh Jaminan Kesehatan access

Aceh Governor Muzakir Manaf has written to BPJS Kesehatan to lift the block on Aceh Jaminan Kesehatan (JKA) access after Governor Regulation No. 2 of 2026 on JKA was repealed. The move aims to prevent disruption to public health services and to guarantee JKA-related hospitals' continued operation as the policy transition continues.

Mirae Asset: Global financial markets in a period of high volatility

Mirae Asset Sekuritas Indonesia warns that the global economy in the first half of 2026 is placing financial markets in a high-volatility phase, with widespread sell-offs in government bonds and surging yields that threaten Indonesia’s fiscal budget. Domestically, inflation pressures, currency weakness, and a debate ahead of Bank Indonesia’s Board of Governors meeting underscore the challenge of balancing inflation, growth, and exchange-rate stability.

Focus on Expanding Warehousing, KAI Logistics Prepares Modern, Environmentally Friendly Warehouses

KAI Logistik plans to build finished goods warehouses in Bandung and Purwokerto, targeting completion by September 2026, to strengthen its logistics infrastructure and expand integrated services. The facilities will include food and chemical storage, office space, and other supporting facilities, with cold storage and solar panels to boost energy efficiency and environmental performance. The move mirrors a rising role for warehousing in Indonesia’s logistics sector, which grew 8.04% year-on-year in Q1 2026.

Mataram Transport Department Records 12 New Parking Points, Trendy Cafés Dominate

The Mataram City Department of Transport registered 12 new parking points from January to May 2026, with most locations coming from trendy cafés. Authorities say the expansion could boost annual parking fees revenue, but targets will be set only after assessing footfall and the sustainability of businesses. Officials also urged business owners to nominate parking attendants as all new points are now in administrative and system data collection.

PLTU Adipala Uses Sawdust and Cash-Handling Waste for Cofiring

Biomass cofiring at PLTU Adipala in Cilacap, Central Java, is expanding since 2023, with initial fuels including sawdust, woodchip and Limbah Racik Uang Kertas (LRUK). Biomass utilisation has surpassed the annual target at 107.35%, underscoring a stabilising Cofiring system and improved plant operation, with potential access to carbon trading through verified reductions. The programme is supported by supplier partnerships, community empowerment via wood-waste processing, and the development of Energy Plantation Forests (HTE) over 100 hectares to secure long-term biomass supply; future focus will be on boosting biomass use, supply-chain strengthening, alternative fuels, and contributing to national decarbonisation targets.

Pigai: The Media Must Be Able to Deliver Objective Criticism and Should Not Be Dominated by Negative Content

National Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai urged mass media to prioritise objective criticism and avoid being dominated by negative reporting, during the opening of the HAM Journalist Class in Bandung. He cited global research suggesting around 80% of media content is negative and over half is subjective, and emphasised the need for media integrity to serve as a watchdog and check on government power. He urged journalists to base criticism on objectivity and to think beyond the amygdala to counter the prevailing 'bad news is good news' bias.

BTN says banking sector ready to face BI Rate hike

BTN says banks are prepared for various monetary policy scenarios, including a BI Rate hike, and conduct regular stress testing. It is strengthening CASA to improve funding efficiency amid market pressure, as BI raised the BI Rate by 50 bps to 5.25% in May 2026 and lifted related facility rates. The rupiah firmed against the dollar on the day.

GEF SGP to Stage Raksha Loka Festival to Highlight Community Actions in Protecting the Environment

The Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme (GEF SGP) Indonesia will host the Raksha Loka Festival in Jakarta on 22–23 May 2026 to showcase community-led environmental action and explore conservation-based livelihoods funded by grants. The event emphasises turning conservation into local economic growth through ongoing funding and capacity-building, with a focus on four landscapes and sustainability schemes such as Bantuan Usaha Melalui Investasi (BUMI).

"BMKG: 2,278 earthquakes shake North Sulawesi and surrounding areas throughout April"

The BMKG Manado Geophysical Station recorded 2,278 earthquake events across North Sulawesi and surrounding seas in April 2026, dominated by shallow earthquakes in the upper crust. The events ranged from magnitude 1.6 to 7.6, with 42 felt by residents and almost 2,000 aftershocks linked to a major M7.6 quake near Batang Dua. The tremors underline active tectonics around Sulawesi.

Hilman Latief Questioned by the KPK: No Discussion on Receiving Hajj Quota Funds

Former Director General of Hajj and Umrah Organisation Hilman Latief told the KPK there was no discussion about alleged payments linked to the 2023–2024 Hajj quota during his witness interview, and said the investigation only covered the distribution of the Hajj quota between special and regular allocations, each at 50%. The KPK says the split contradicts Law No. 8 of 2019 on the Management of Hajj and Umrah, which sets the special quota at 8% of Indonesia's Hajj quota; the majority is allocated to regular quota. Four suspects have been named in the broader case with reported state losses of Rp622 billion.

US and Iran Exchange Threats as Israel Stays on War Footing

Israel's Chief of Staff says the IDF is at the highest state of readiness as Tehran and Washington exchange threats of war. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warns a regional conflict could widen beyond the region if attacks continue, while US President Donald Trump signals possible strikes if no settlement is reached; talks to end the fighting, which began on 28 February, continue with a ceasefire in place since 8 April.

Raksha Loka Elevates Community Action to Protect the Environment, Engaging the Youth

Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme Indonesia will host Festival Raksha Loka on 22–23 May 2026 in Jakarta, highlighting community-based conservation and sustainable livelihoods. The event marks the close of Phase 7 (2021–2026) and aims to connect local communities with government, academia, business, and youth to advance environment-focused economic opportunities.

PLN Encourages Retired Employees to Start Their Own Businesses

PLN (Persero) has launched the Kelas Entrepreneurship Masa Purnabakti PLN 2026 in collaboration with Amazy to equip retiring employees with practical business skills in the food sector. The program runs across PLN UPDL units from April to May 2026, offering seven four-day modules and six months of post-training mentoring, focusing on frozen foods and bakery, with industry visits to illustrate real-world operations.

How Instagram Instants Works: Meta's Strategy to Counter Over-edited Content

Instagram's Instants, launched on 13 May 2026, enables raw, private sharing of photos or short videos, backed by strict protections that block access to the phone gallery and stop screenshots or screen recording. Meta positions Instants as a way to reclaim micro-interactions by merging the existing Close Friends network with anti-screenshot technology, making it the most private communication channel within the Instagram ecosystem and challenging rivals like Snapchat or BeReal.

Ebola Outbreak in the DR Congo 2026: Transmission Rate Exceeds the Worst on Record

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is grappling with a rapidly spreading Ebola outbreak, with WHO reporting more than 500 suspected cases as of 20 May 2026. Experts warn the transmission rate is outpacing past outbreaks, and analyses by Imperial College London and WHO project 800 to 1,000 cases. The WHO has declared an international health emergency, while calls for international support escalate as the crisis threatens regional stability.

Semeru Volcano Eruption: Alert Level III

The Geology Agency confirmed Semeru erupted on Wednesday night, generating an ash plume up to about 600 metres above the summit. Semeru is now at Alert Level III (Siaga), with strict prohibitions on activity within certain zones around Besuk Kobokan and river valleys fed by the volcano. Authorities warned of possible pyroclastic flows, lava lahars and ash dispersal up to 17 kilometres from the summit and urged residents to stay away from river edges and within the crater radius.

Holds AGM, Jasa Marga Declares Rp1.1 Trillion Dividend

Jasa Marga, Indonesia’s toll-road operator, held its 2025 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders (AGM) and approved a Rp1.1 trillion dividend, equating to 31% of net profit for 2025. The company posted stable core profit and revenue growth, and announced board changes alongside plans to accelerate digitalisation and ESG initiatives.

BI backs Panda Bond issuances to deepen the foreign exchange market

Indonesia's central bank, Bank Indonesia (BI), is pushing renminbi-denominated instruments, including Panda Bonds and Dim Sum Bonds, to deepen the domestic FX market and boost CNH liquidity. It is expanding offshore CNH transactions, leveraging the Renminbi Clearing Bank concept, and tightening FX rules to stabilise the rupiah, with policies due to take effect from 2026. The government has already issued 6 billion yuan in Dim Sum Bonds, highlighting diversification away from the dollar.

Over Indonesian Citizens Detained by Zionist Authorities, Human Rights Minister: We Cannot Travel to Israel Because There Are No Diplomatic Ties

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai says Indonesia's lack of diplomatic relations with Israel prevents the Ministry from directly lobbying Israel over nine Indonesian nationals detained during a humanitarian mission to Gaza. He said repatriation is the responsibility of the Foreign Ministry, with international mechanisms used to protect citizens, while Indonesia's presidency of the UN Human Rights Council is independent and does not ease lobbying for Israel.

Global Market Expansion, Multi Bintang Begins Export of Bintang Radler to Australia

PT Multi Bintang Indonesia Tbk, part of The Heineken Company (MLBI), has begun exporting Bintang Radler to Australia in 2026 after a positive limited market test in December 2025. The launch kicks off a year-long export programme and broadens Multi Bintang's portfolio beyond Bintang Pilsener, with export scale reportedly tripling. The move has support from industry officials and is framed as a strategic boost to Indonesia’s international trade.

BPKH Ensures Haj Funds Are Safe Amid Rupiah Exchange-Rate Fluctuations

The Haj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) says haj funds remain safe and under control despite fluctuations in the rupiah’s exchange rate against the US dollar. Investment decisions are made after rigorous risk, legal, and compliance assessments, involving a 14-person decision-making committee; reforms to the Haj Finance Management Act may allow greater capital and loss reserves, enabling a higher risk tolerance while maintaining safety. The challenge remains the need for foreign currency for haj operations, though current hedges and early purchases mitigated impact this year.

KPK reacts to MK ruling on state losses: BPK could not handle all cases

Indonesia's Constitutional Court ruled that state losses must be real and calculable, affecting how damages in corruption cases are assessed. The KPK warned that BPK cannot process every loss calculation due to manpower limits, proposing guidance and auditor certification while work continues through BPKP.

PTPN I (Persero) Launches OneMagz Magazine

PTPN I (Persero) launched OneMagz, a limited-edition internal magazine issued in print and online to track the company’s programmes and inform staff, stakeholders and the public. The hybrid launch framed OneMagz as a trusted confirmation space amid unregulated social media, with emphasis on downstreaming and the welfare of plantation workers. It positions the publication as a vehicle to align leadership and worker perspectives during a period of rapid transformation.

Prabowo: Replace the Director-General of Customs If They Are Not Able

President Prabowo has ordered that the head of the Directorate General of Customs and Excise be replaced if they are unable to resolve problems. He conveyed this instruction to Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa during a speech at a plenary session of the House of Representatives on 20 May 2026. The president highlighted persistent issues in the agency, including export-value fraud and smuggling, and recalled past reforms under the Soeharto era that shifted inspection functions to private firms.

Hidayat Nur Wahid Publishes Book 'Reform of Indonesia's Hajj Governance'

Indonesian politician Hidayat Nur Wahid has released a 242-page book examining major challenges in organising the Hajj, including queue length, quota complexity, fund management, and accommodation and transport quality. He argues for fundamental reforms, including upgrading the Hajj agency into a Ministry of Hajj and Umrah under Law No. 14 of 2025, and strengthening governance and international diplomacy with Saudi Arabia. The launch was welcomed by government figures and scholars who highlighted broader oversight improvements and service modernisation.

Pocong Terror Hoax Becomes a Cover for Criminal Activity in Tangerang

A hoax about terror threats involving a pocong has circulated in Tangerang, alleging that a decoy pocong was terrorising residents in Rajeg district. Police have urged the public to remain calm, stay vigilant and not share unverified information, while they investigate the origin of the posts. Officers checked the claimed sites but found no corroborating evidence, and say the incident remains unverified.

Karina Moudy Highlights Cultural Content in Film Sekawan Limo 2

Actress Karina Moudy emphasizes the cultural content of Sekawan Limo 2: Gunung Klawih, noting the film's almost entirely Javanese dialogue as a key strength. She hopes local languages and culture will be more widely represented in future projects and believes the film could help advance Indonesian tourism and regional creativity, while stressing patience in achieving success.

Sudden resignation and need for funds? These BPJS Ketenagakerjaan protections can still be claimed

Officials note that resigning from a job does not qualify for the JKP unemployment benefit; JKP is designed for workers who lose their jobs through termination. The article sets out the eligibility rules and explains that JKP claims may be rejected for other reasons, while JHT provisions remain available under certain criteria.

Japanese Consul-General in Surabaya Explores Collaboration Opportunities with Universitas Jember (Unej)

The Japanese Consul-General in Surabaya, Takonai Susumu, visited Universitas Jember (Unej) to discuss expanding bilateral diplomatic, educational, and cultural ties. The meeting covered student exchanges, potential placement of Indonesian nurses in Japan, and the planned creation of a 'Japan Corner' in Indonesian university libraries to centralise information on scholarships, culture, and job opportunities, alongside a visiting lecture on Japan’s human development model.

Complete Dua after the Dhuha Prayer: Arabic, Latin and Meaning

The article provides the Arabic text, Latin transliteration, and English meaning of the Dua recited after the Dhuha prayer. It presents the supplication as a morning practice for seeking blessed sustenance, ease, and goodness in this world and the hereafter, emphasising sincerity and regular recitation. It cites sources such as Rumah Zakat and Zalora and discusses the prayer's purpose as drawing closer to Allah.

Collaboration to Drive AI Transformation in Indonesian Classrooms

A partnership between ASIX Indonesia Cerdas, a subsidiary of PT Dian Swastatika Sentosa, and Promethean EDXIS aims to deploy AI-powered smart classrooms in Indonesian schools, including smartboards, security tools, and an offline content platform. The alliance expands a digital learning ecosystem with real-time monitoring and teacher enablement features, reflecting the growing role of AI in education and school technology adoption.

Chinese Tanker Leaves the Strait of Hormuz as US-Iran Deal Nears

Two Chinese-owned tankers left the Strait of Hormuz after more than two months’ detainment, reportedly carrying around 4 million barrels of crude. A South Korean crude tanker also passed through the strait amid ongoing US–Iran diplomacy, with Brent crude price movements reflecting market sensitivity to the tensions. Analysts warn prices could remain elevated even if a deal is reached due to ongoing supply constraints.

Densus 88: 132 Children Exposed to Radicalism as Terror Threat Enters via Digital Space

Polri says terrorist threats in Indonesia have shifted from structured networks to digital spaces, with 132 children exposed to radicalism as of 19 May 2026. The force urges early prevention and a family-, school-, and community-based protection approach within a socio-ecological framework, emphasising cross-sector collaboration to address digital extremism.

Pupuk Indonesia Command Center Monitors Stock and Distribution in Real Time

Pupuk Indonesia has launched a Command Center to oversee national fertiliser distribution in real time, integrating multiple digital systems and supporting the Presidential Regulation 113 of 2025 to improve efficiency, transparency and targeting of subsidies via the iPubers app; stock stood at 1.17 million tonnes as of 19 May 2026.

IMF Warns of the Risks of Excessive Energy and Food Subsidies

The IMF warns governments not to rush to shore up energy and food prices amid persistent price pressures. It argues that broad subsidies can worsen inflation, expand fiscal burdens, and hinder economic adjustment, recommending targeted, temporary cash support rather than universal subsidies. The report links these concerns to the IMF’s Fiscal Monitor of April 2026, urging governments to maintain fiscal space for future crises.

Goat-Seller Stalls on Central Jakarta Sidewalk Cleared after Going Viral

Tanah Abang district officials say the sidewalk goat-selling stalls in front of a Daihatsu dealer at Karet Tengsin have been tidied up after going viral. While some goat markets in Tanah Abang are permitted as a seasonal local practice, concerns about odour and obstructed footpaths persist.

Painful! Paradise in the Heart of the Arab World Dragged into the Hell of the Middle East War

The United Arab Emirates' economy is coming under strain from Middle East conflict, with oil and gas exports slashed and tourism hit as security risks rise. The UAE has pursued bold steps, including pipeline expansion and a move to exit OPEC, to bolster energy production, while the war disrupts travel, events, and aviation, signaling a difficult path ahead for 2026.

Reducing stunting is a strategic investment for an outstanding generation

The Indonesian government says lowering stunting is a strategic investment to capitalise on the demographic dividend, emphasising that a healthy, educated workforce is essential for realising an 'outstanding generation'. The Genting programme engages communities and business to prevent stunting, highlighting that social solidarity is crucial in tackling the issue.

Penglipuran Village Offers Free Tourist Safety Insurance

Penglipuran Village in Bangli, Bali, has started providing free Personal Accident insurance to visitors, integrated with the ticket. The coverage, offered by Jasindo and MKP, includes death up to Rp50 million, permanent disability up to Rp50 million, medical expenses up to Rp5 million, accident-related transport up to Rp1 million, and inpatient care up to Rp150,000 per day for a maximum of five days, while entry fees remain unchanged. The move aims to enhance visitor safety and comfort at the world-renowned DTW, which averages around 2,000 visitors daily.

Indonesia Continues Push for Digital Royalty Governance in Geneva

Indonesia has reaffirmed its push for a balanced, inclusive international framework to govern cross-border digital royalties, presented at the 48th SCCR in Geneva. The government says rapid digital transformation requires the copyright system to evolve while emphasising that the proposal does not seek to alter the substance of current law but to enhance transparency, interoperability and fair remuneration across borders.

Getting to Know Instagram Instants: A New Way to Share Spontaneous Photos in DMs

Meta launched Instagram Instants on 13 May 2026 to offer a fast, private way to share spontaneous photos via Direct Messages to Close Friends or mutual followers. Instants uses disappearing media where photos vanish after opening and expire after 24 hours, with emoji reactions and spontaneous replies, positioning the feature as a privacy- and immediacy-focused BeReal/Snapchat-inspired tool within Instagram.

Banten and DKI Jakarta strengthen collaboration to tackle floods and waste

The Banten provincial government and DKI Jakarta have agreed to bolster cross-border cooperation on flood management and waste handling in the Tangerang Raya agglomeration and the capital. They discussed joint flood-control reservoirs, Waste-to-Energy plans, and leveraging land assets in Legok for housing, farming and flood control, highlighting shared responsibility to address recurring floods.

Bank Raya (AGRO) Reaches Agreement at 2026 AGM

Bank Raya Indonesia Tbk (AGRO) held its 2026 Annual General Meeting on 20 May 2026, attended by shareholders representing 89.53% of the company’s shares. The meeting approved the annual report, financial statements, the Board of Commissioners’ oversight report for 2025, set 2026 remuneration and approved the 2025 performance remuneration, appointed the external auditor for 2026, and authorised amendments to the Articles of Association and changes in the board. It granted full discharge to the directors and commissioners for 2025 and confirmed a new board composition, with management emphasising stronger governance, digital services and financial inclusion.

To Anticipate Acute Respiratory Infections, Residents Around Batang Coal-Fired Power Plant Undergo Health Checks

At least 300 residents living near the Batang steam-fired power plant in Central Java underwent health screenings organised by the local Health Office, as part of CSR health programmes and focusing on early detection of respiratory illnesses and other conditions. The three-day initiative covered Ponowareng, Ujungnegoro and Karanggeneng and included mobile X-ray checks, with results to be evaluated with the district health office and potential assistance from the plant operator.

Body Care Innovations Tackle Changing Consumer Behaviour

Aftermyskin launches Alpha Arbutin Brightening Soap, emphasising gradual, gentler skin brightening, and hints at AI in retail growth. The product helped win the 2026 Top Innovation Choice Award from Infobrand.id and Tras N Co Indonesia. The article also notes shifts in Indonesian retail landscapes and challenges for firms amid dynamic consumer behaviour.

BP BUMN prepares 400 top talents to oversee transformation through the PFLP

BP BUMN has selected 400 candidates from 717 applicants for Batch 1 of its Presidential Future Leaders Programme (PFLP), a programme designed to groom future leaders of state-owned enterprises to steer the transformation and governance of the state sector. The initiative, endorsed by Deputy Defence Minister Donny Ermawan Taufanto and linked to President Prabowo Subianto’s directive, includes three months of military-style training at Kodiklat TNI and aims to produce leaders with high integrity, discipline and nationalism. The process emphasises professional, transparent selection and the development of talents ready to support national development.

Yogyakarta Palace Simplifies Garebeg Besar 2026 Traditional Ceremony Format

Yogyakarta's Keraton will stage Garebeg Besar in 2026 in a simplified format, omitting external pareden processions and guards, while preserving the ceremony's core purpose of expressing gratitude during Idul Adha. The pareden distribution will be centralised within the Keraton for abdi dalem, with officials emphasising that the sacred essence remains intact despite reduced public access.

Methamphetamine and Ecstasy Worth Rp2.8 Billion Destroyed Using a Blender

South Sumatra Police’s Ditresnarkoba held a press conference to publicly destroy narcotics evidence worth Rp2.85 billion seized in operations across nine districts in May 2026. The disposal, conducted by pulverising and burning, followed the seizure of 4,291.38 grams of methamphetamine, 680 ecstasy tablets, 17,552.85 grams of dried cannabis and 28 millilitres of etomidate, with 49 suspects charged in 29 police reports. The police say the operation disrupted cross-regional networks and potentially saved around 62,393 people from drug misuse.

Footage Shows Russia Deploying Nuclear Warheads, Aiming Them Where?

Footage released by the Russian Defence Ministry shows forces loading and arming a nuclear warhead onto an Iskander-M mobile launcher during a three-day joint Russia-Belarus nuclear exercise. The drill involved about 64,000 personnel, more than 200 missile launchers, 140 aircraft, 73 ships and 13 submarines, and included procedures for launching Russia's tactical nuclear weapons stationed in Belarus. Analysts say the exercise aims to project psychological pressure on NATO while masking Moscow's difficulties in continuing the war in Ukraine amid rising tensions with the West.

Gus Lilur: NU Must Become the Republic's Moral Guardian

NU figure Gus Lilur warns that prominent figures are emerging ahead of the 35th NU Congress and cautions against political interference, arguing that NU is rooted in ulama and pesantren rather than state power. He stresses that leaders should not seek the state's endorsement and that NU should remain a moral pillar of the Republic, not a tool for short-term power.

Head of Bakom Qodari Explains Why Prabowo Is Strengthening Export Oversight

Head of the Government Communications Agency (Bakom), Muhammad Qodari, says President Prabowo Subianto’s move to tighten oversight of exports of strategic commodities is a direct execution of Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution. He emphasises that Article 33 underpins state control of natural resources for the people’s welfare, with enforcement actions already in upstream sectors and strengthened oversight planned downstream, from palm oil to ferroalloys.

Serang Regency Accelerates Digital Literacy Education to Protect the Nation's Youth

Serang Regency is accelerating digital literacy education and social solidarity to ensure cyberspace development benefits the nation’s youth. The regent notes a shift from territorial sovereignty to information sovereignty and digital transformation, and cites a central Government Regulation restricting under-16 gadget use. Local authorities are boosting data protection and digital ethics outreach through Kominfo's Go to School, Go to Pesantren, and Go to ASN programmes.

To Tackle Congestion, Tangerang City Government to Build Flyover on Jalan Jenderal Sudirman

The Tangerang City Government, in partnership with the Ministry of Public Works, is planning to build a flyover around Tanah Tinggi Station on Jalan Jenderal Sudirman to ease congestion caused by a railway crossing. The scheme includes new traffic management, closure of the grade crossing, one-way loops, and coordination with the provincial authorities; construction is targeted for early 2027 with the flyover around 600 metres long.

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources auctions 13 oil and gas blocks at IPA Convex

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has announced the first round of the 2026 oil and gas block auctions, involving 13 working areas. The government offers flexibility for contractors to select either a gross split or cost-recovery Production Sharing Contract, with incentives such as tax relief and DMO-related compensation. Bidding windows run through May–July 2026 for direct-offer and ABT 2025 study-area tenders, with further tenders for other blocks opening later in the year.

TP PKK Gianyar Organises Free Exercise Session and Health Checks for the Elderly

A community health initiative by TP PKK Gianyar saw dozens of elderly residents take part in a morning exercise session and free health screenings at Balai Banjar Bonjaka Tegallalang on 19 May 2026. The programme aims to empower and socialise elderly residents, promoting healthy, independent living with advice on diet, access to affordable healthcare, and spiritual well-being.

INAPA and Busworld 2026 Opened as National Transport Industry Enters Transformation Phase

The opening of INAPA 2026 and Busworld Southeast Asia 2026 at JIExpo Kemayoran signals a decisive shift in Indonesia's transport and logistics sectors towards electrification and sustainable mobility, backed by strong manufacturing capacity and government support. The exhibitions, featuring over 1,500 companies and around 45,000 attendees, underscore Indonesia's ambitions to become a regional hub for commercial vehicles and public transport.

Social Affairs Ministry confirms Rp1 trillion funds ready for Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra

The Social Affairs Ministry has secured more than Rp1 trillion in disaster-relief funds for Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra to accelerate post-disaster recovery. Disbursement will begin next week following tiered data from local governments and final verification by BPS, and includes death and serious-injury benefits, social-economic stimulus, housing assistance and three months of life insurance. The meeting also discussed expanding health-insurance premium assistance for Acehnese residents affected by the disaster, and calls for rapid central funding to support economic recovery.

Customs–TNI raid on fake excise-stamp factory, seizes Rp570 billion

The Directorate General of Customs, in cooperation with the BAIS TNI, conducted large-scale raids in Central Java, dismantling a network producing illegal excise stamps. Authorities seized dozens of bundles of suspected fake stamps, printing equipment, and hologram materials, averting an estimated Rp570 billion in potential state losses and detaining 19 suspects for further investigation.

Witness Reveals Bribe Envelope Code '1' Allocated to the Director General of Customs

A witness testified at Jakarta's Corruption Court in a case involving bribery over the importation of goods at the Directorate General of Customs, stating that an envelope coded '1' was given to Rizal, the former Director of Enforcement and Investigation. Prosecutors allege three Blueray Cargo executives provided bribes totalling around Rp 61.3 billion in Singaporean dollars, plus facilities and luxury goods valued at about Rp 1.8 billion.

Bareskrim Hands Over Three Suspects in Etomidate-Laced Vape Trafficking to South Jakarta District Attorney's Office

The Indonesian Police's Criminal Investigation Agency transferred three suspects involved in an etomidate-laced vape trafficking case to the South Jakarta District Attorney's Office. The handover followed an undercover operation that led to arrests, and investigators said the process proceeded smoothly; the suspects now face trial with a cache of vape cartridges and other items seized.

Supporting Gas Supply to Meet West Java's Industrial Needs

PT Pertamina EP signed a long-term gas sale and purchase agreement with PT Cikarang Listrindo to supply gas to West Java’s industrial sector, sourced from Akasia Bagus and Jatibarang Field, amounting to 20 billion standard cubic feet. It also signed a second PJBG with PT Pertamina Hulu Rokan to support operations in Rokan, with a volume of 35 trillion British Thermal Units, underpinning energy reliability and sovereignty. The deals, underscored by commitment from company leaders, aim to bolster energy security and industrial competitiveness in West Java.

Telkom Group strengthens infrastructure and services to support smooth Hajj operations

Telkom Group is expanding its infrastructure and on-the-ground support for Indonesian Hajj pilgrims, establishing four strategic posts in Saudi Arabia to handle roaming traffic and assist elderly pilgrims, with 24/7 international roaming support and a virtual assistant. The initiative includes collaboration with Saudi telecom operators and a local culinary voucher program for pilgrims during Hajj.

Landslide Hits Batangtoru Area, Two People Die

Heavy rain on 19 May 2026 triggered a landslide in the Wek 1 area of Batangtoru, North Sumatra, burying two residents. The first victim, Yasine Gulo, 43, was found deceased and evacuated to hospital, followed by the recovery of the second victim, Sariman Gulo, 25, on Wednesday. Rescue teams cautioned that the ground remains unstable and the search proceeded carefully; the SAR operation in Batangtoru has now been officially closed and the bodies handed to their families.

Public Expected to Help Monitor National Defence Governance

Researchers warn that the newly formed National Defence Council (DPN) could risk centralising power and blurring the President’s executive authority if its remit is too broad. They urge careful design and robust oversight to prevent interagency overlap ahead of the 2029 presidential election. The discussion also questions the dual role of the Defence Minister as Acting Chair and calls for transparency in the DPN’s operations.

BNPP strengthens border diplomacy and cooperation with Timor-Leste

Indonesia's National Border Management Agency (BNPP) has, on Timor-Leste's 24th Restoration Day, reaffirmed its commitment to modern, cooperative, and welfare-oriented border governance. BNPP Secretary Makhruzi Rahman and other BNPP officials attended the Dili ceremony, highlighting renewed diplomacy and collaboration on border management with Timor-Leste. The agency administers four Border Crossing Posts—Motaain, Motamasin, Wini, and Napan—linking Indonesia and Timor-Leste, which facilitate orderly movement and bolster cross-border trade, economic activity, and social ties.

Bahlil Reveals DHE Rules in the Oil and Gas Industry, Here Is the Explanation

The Indonesian government will require 100% placement of foreign exchange earnings (DHE) from exports into state-owned banks from 1 June 2026, with exemptions for the oil and gas sector and certain exporters. Officials say upstream migas may face a capped DHE retention of 10-30% to preserve investment certainty given large foreign debt and long-term contracts. The policy aims to close price manipulation and capital flight while offering tax incentives for longer placement periods.

Governor: Tangerang Raya flood management requires support from Jakarta

Governor Andra Soni of Banten says Tangerang Raya's flood problems demand collaboration with partner region DKI Jakarta. He and regional leaders met DKI Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung to strengthen cross-border flood management and waste handling, including joint reservoirs to capture rainfall. They also discussed optimising land assets in Legok for housing, farming, and flood-control purposes under the PSEL programme.

Temporary closure on Pasir Putih Raya Road, Depok, until August 2026: Here are the key points

The Depok City Government will implement a temporary closure on Jalan Raya Pasir Putih in Sawangan from 21 May to 14 August 2026 for replacing the Kali Angsana Bridge. Traffic around the site is expected to be congested, with drivers urged to use alternative routes and exercise caution. The city also plans short-term river dredging and tree removal, and a longer-term elevation of Jembatan Jago to improve water flow, targeting completion by late 2026.

Mendes: BUMDes and Kopdes must reinforce each other in the Free Nutritious Meals Programme

Minister Yandri Susanto calls for BUMDes and Kopdes to work in a coordinated framework to support the Free Nutritious Meals Programme, avoiding overlap. Data show growing BUMDes involvement, with 741 suppliers to the Satuan Pelayanan Pemenuhan Gizi (SPPG) and 37 MBG kitchens. West Java leads with 280 BUMDes suppliers, with expansion through export and tourism villages in collaboration with the Trade Ministry, under the government's 12 Aksi Bangun Desa programme.

Pertamina EP Signs Two Gas Sale and Purchase Agreements Until 2035, Securing Industrial Gas Supply

Pertamina EP has signed two long-term gas sale and purchase agreements—one with Cikarang Listrindo valid to 16 September 2035 to meet West Java's industrial demand, and another with Pertamina Hulu Rokan (PHR) valid to 31 December 2030 covering 35 TBtu for PHR's operations in the Rokan Working Area, Riau. The deals aim to bolster energy security, secure government revenue shares from gas sales, and support regional economic growth.

Russia and China condemn seizure and freezing of foreign state assets

Russia and China issued a joint statement denouncing measures to block, freeze, or seize foreign state assets and property, and warning of retaliation within international law. They called for an end to unilateral coercive measures and vowed to resolve disputes peacefully under the UN Charter, preserving sovereignty and security. The statement followed President Vladimir Putin’s arrival in China for an official visit, during which he met President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

San Diego mosque shooting suspects' manifesto repeatedly mentions Trump

Two teenagers accused of fatally shooting three people at the Islamic Center of San Diego left writings that reference President Donald Trump. The 75-page document is being reviewed by U.S. security authorities as investigators probe the motives behind the attack carried out on 18 May 2026, after which the suspects died by suicide.

Living in the Shadow of Mugging: Why West Jakarta Residents No Longer Feel Safe?

West Jakarta residents describe a surge in street crime, with fears extending into daylight and even incidents of debt-collection violence, prompting calls for stronger police action and enhanced CCTV surveillance. Some interviewees advocate more aggressive policing, including armed measures to deter offenders, highlighting urgency for public safety policy responses.

Bali’s Nusa Dua Welcomes Return Of Tourist Favourite 5-Star All-Inclusive Hotel

Paradisus by Meliá Bali has opened in Nusa Dua, transforming the long‑standing Meliá Bali into a new all‑inclusive luxury retreat, operated by PT Surya Semesta Internusa Tbk (SSIA). The resort seeks to strengthen Indonesia’s tourism sector and hospitality expertise, underpinned by a prior occupancy rate of around 80% and a commitment to Balinese culture and sustainability. The broader rejuvenation of Nusa Dua, including Peninsula Island, aims to enhance infrastructure and position the area as a premier, sustainable international events destination.

To Safeguard Safety, KAI Daop 4 Semarang Closes Unmanned Level Crossings

KAI Daop 4 Semarang closed an unmanned level crossing at JPL 46 Km 34 +1 on 19 May as part of a 2026 safety upgrade across Java and Sumatra. The closure follows regulatory guidance and aims to prevent rail–vehicle collisions, with six crossings already closed and a target of 11 more in 2026. Officials emphasise ongoing collaboration with regional governments, the Ministry of Transport, and security agencies to bolster crossing safety.

CORE Urges Danantara to Reform Investment to Curb the Risk of Layoffs

Centre for Reform on Economics (CORE) Indonesia has urged Danantara Investment Management Authority to reform its investment direction to curb layoff risk in the medium term, arguing that global pressures demand structural reform of Indonesia's manufacturing supply chains. It calls for focused, differentiated policy to reduce import dependence and strengthen mid‑chain industries, with textiles, nafta-based petrochemicals and iron and steel highlighted as priority sectors.

Commission V Urges the Ministry of Villages to Expand Partnerships to Drive the Merah Putih Village Cooperatives

The Commission V of the Indonesian DPR has urged the Ministry of Villages and related agencies to broaden partnerships with private sector, universities and public figures to accelerate policy refinement and the on-the-ground implementation of Kopdes and BUMDesa, aligning with the government’s rural development agenda. The minister and ministry official Yandri Susanto said KDMP and BUMDesa complement each other; budget absorption and BPK follow-up progress are improving, with plans to tighten regulation and strengthen accountability as lawmakers push for a larger role in sustainable village development.

FPCI condemns interception and detention of Indonesian citizens in Gaza humanitarian mission

Indonesia's Foreign Policy Community (FPCI) has condemned the interception and detention of civilians, including nine Indonesian nationals, by the Israeli military during the Global Sumud flotilla 2.0. It urged the immediate release of all detainees and expressed support for Indonesia’s diplomatic efforts to protect its citizens as the situation evolves.

From Setbacks to Productivity: Makmur Palawija Farmers Thrive Thanks to MedcoEnergi

A group of Palawija farmers in Desa Tampang Baru, Musi Banyuasin, South Sumatra, has recovered from a downturn thanks to mentoring under MedcoEnergi’s Local Business Development programme, delivering higher harvests, expanded markets, and stronger capacity. Production rose from 16 to 23 tonnes, with incomes rising to around Rp90 million in 2025 as the initiative deepens local economic resilience.

New Cable Car Route To Be Built At Top Bali Tourist Landmark

Work on Bali's Turyapada Tower in Bedugul includes a new gondola link estimated at 940 metres, part of a second development phase to turn the site into a major tourism attraction. The cable car equipment has been ordered from China and is due to arrive by end-June 2026, with completion targeted for November 2026; land must be acquired for 47 residents across 44 plots to allow the line. The project, budgeted at about IDR 260 billion from the Bali provincial budget, is expected to boost the local economy, create jobs, and support local entrepreneurship, with residents prioritised for employment and asked to form a cooperative.

Fire in Jatinegara Destroys Five Houses, Suspected to be Caused by Electrical Short Circuit

A fire in Jatinegara destroyed five terraced houses comprising a dwelling, a workshop, and a printing shop. The East Jakarta Fire Department deployed ten units and 50 personnel; five family cards (KK) affecting 28 people were reported, with no fatalities. The blaze is suspected to have originated from an electrical fault in an unoccupied home, and evacuees sought refuge at a nearby musalla as firefighters worked.

Three murder suspects near SMAN 3 Jogja arrested in Cilacap; three others still at large

Police have arrested three suspects in the fatal street assault near SMAN 3 Jogja, with three others still at large. The victim, AA (18), died from stab injuries as police investigated the Kridosono area; authorities are urging the remaining suspects' families to hand them over, and an autopsy is planned.

Kemenhaj: 100,268 Indonesian prospective Hajj pilgrims have completed dam

The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah reports that 100,268 prospective Hajj pilgrims have fulfilled the dam requirements through various schemes, with the majority paying via the ADAHI programme in Saudi Arabia. The ministry emphasises respect for diverse fiqh interpretations and urges pilgrims to use official channels while remaining vigilant against unofficial offers.

Lestari: The role of indigenous communities is crucial in reviving local food

Indonesian Deputy Speaker Lestari Moerdijat says indigenous communities are essential to protecting local food ecosystems and biodiversity, emphasising their role in national food security amid climate threats and dietary homogenisation. Data show indigenous territories underpin 4.9 million hectares of autonomous local food production and help conserve around 80% of the world’s biodiversity, underscoring the need to recognise their contribution.

DPR Member on Israel's Kidnapping of Indonesian Nationals: We Must Not Stay Silent

Indonesian MPs urged a robust government response after reports that Indonesian activists and journalists were kidnapped by Israel during a Gaza-bound humanitarian flotilla. They pressed the government, including the Foreign Ministry and the TNI, to protect Indonesian nationals and secure their safe release, as Jakarta coordinates with regional partners over the nine confirmed abductees.

Directorate General of Customs and Excise uncovers counterfeit excise stamp syndicate costing the state Rp570 billion

Customs authorities in Semarang and Jepara have busted a counterfeit excise stamp syndicate, potentially costing Rp570 billion to state revenue. The operation, ongoing for around 18 months, led to the seizure of equipment and the detention of 19 suspects as investigations continue into the network's leadership.

KAQI: Jantra Grupo Indonesia Tbk reshuffles board and accelerates expansion

KAQI, a listed automotive workshop operator, approved a new board of directors at an extraordinary general meeting and appointed Simon Arosokhi Gulo as Director and Corporate Secretary, replacing Dodon Tri Koeswardana. The company also approved a KBLI classification adjustment and outlined 2026 priorities, including digitalisation, enhanced human resources, product diversification, and regional expansion, amid preparations for an IPO.

UK and US in Lockstep to Allow Russian Oil as EU Rages

The UK has moved to exempt imports of diesel and aviation turbine fuel refined from Russian crude, provided they are refined abroad; this aligns with US concessions and has provoked fury in the European Union. The move coincides with new licenses enabling LNG shipments from Russia's Sakhalin-2 and Yamal projects, illustrating Western compromise amid rising East-West tensions.

Barcelona Makes Huge Commitment To Tackle Overtourism: Will Bali Be Next?

Barcelona has appointed José Antonio Donaire as the city’s first Commissioner for Sustainable Tourism and unveiled a suite of measures to curb overtourism, including revoking 10,000 licensed tourist apartments by 2028 and redeveloping La Boquería to serve local residents. The piece argues Bali could learn from Barcelona’s approach by prioritising high-quality, culturally engaged visitors and tightening the supply of short‑term rentals to protect residents and the island’s environment.

9 Best Gaming Laptops of 2026: From Budget to Sultan-Class

The article surveys nine gaming laptops for 2026, ranging from value-focused options to top-end premium builds. It emphasises balancing price-to-performance and portability, with several models highlighted for their innovative displays and AI-enabled performance.

Investment Minister Praised for Maintaining Investor Confidence Amid Global Turmoil

Indonesia's investment climate is portrayed as resilient, with investment growth and investor confidence sustained despite global volatility. Government and industry voices emphasise policy certainty, transparency in commodity exports via Danantara, and strategic collaborations to bolster foreign exchange earnings and industrial growth. The moves are complemented by parliamentary support and ongoing economic ties with partners such as China.

US Military Seizes Iran's Skywave Oil Tanker in the Indian Ocean

US forces seized the Skywave, an Iranian oil tanker, in the Indian Ocean on the night of 19 May 2026, amid heightened tensions as President Donald Trump weighed air strikes against Iran. The vessel, on US sanctions since March, is believed to be carrying more than a million barrels of Iranian crude from Kharg Island, marking at least the third such action against shadow‑fleet tankers connected to Tehran. The incident unfolded as allied pressure and ongoing negotiations over a potential peace deal influenced White House decisions, with Trump delaying strikes and warning that time was running out for Iran.

DPD Leader Praises Prabowo's DPR Speech, Reaffirms National Development Direction

The Deputy Speaker of the DPD RI, Tamsil Linrung, praised President Prabowo Subianto's address on the Macro-Economic Framework (KER) and the Core Policy of Fiscal Policy (PPKF) for the 2027 RAPBN during a DPR plenary session. He framed the speech as a commitment to inclusive development, emphasising state-led protection of citizens and equitable distribution, and urged state banks to translate the directives into concrete action to support MSMEs, farmers, fishers, and youth entrepreneurship.

Telkom Indonesia Adjusts Investment in Response to Rising US Dollar

Telkom Indonesia says it will adjust its USD-denominated infrastructure investment allocations to cope with the spike in the US dollar and macroeconomic uncertainty. The group outlines TLKM 30, a four-pillar strategy to improve governance, streamline subsidiaries, optimise InfraNexia, and integrate operations, while aiming for a balanced revenue mix by 2030 as B2C remains dominant but B2B and international segments are being expanded.

Handling of Slum Areas in Jakarta Hampered by Population Density and Land Ownership Legality

Jakarta's government cites high housing density, scarce land for infrastructure, and land tenure issues as key hurdles in slum upgrading. It allocates around Rp200 billion annually for such projects, using refurbishment, renewal, and resettlement, including relocations like Kampung Bukit Duri to Rusun Tumbuh Kembang Cakung. Experts warn that programmes focused only on physical improvements risk failure unless sanitation, drainage, waste management, and residents' social and economic conditions are addressed.

Three UGM Study Programmes Enter the World Top 100

UGM announced that 28 of its subjects are ranked by QS World University Rankings by Subject, with Theology in the top 45 and Anthropology and Development Studies also in the top 100. At the Period III 2026 graduation, 1,762 graduates were welcomed, with an average duration of study of 3 years 11 months and an average GPA of 3.6, and 72% graduates earned cum laude. The Rector emphasised education's social role and the need for graduates to contribute to society, while Anies Baswedan urged realism and hope after graduation.

Oil and Gas Lifting Unachievable Without Government–KKKS Cohesion

Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says national oil and gas lifting targets cannot be achieved without close collaboration between the government and KKKS, amid global uncertainty and rising domestic energy demand. The government seeks to accelerate projects, reform regulations, and cut imports through biodiesel and ethanol blending, aiming for 900,000–1,000,000 barrels per day by 2029–2030, underscoring the need for central–regional cooperation and stronger regulatory reform to unlock upstream investment.

Danantara Ensures SDA Export Rules to Prevent Under-Invoicing

Danantara, led by Rosan Roeslani, underscores that a one-stop governance policy for natural resource exports will be implemented through a dedicated state-owned enterprise to boost transparency and tighten oversight of export values. The government will roll out an export-transaction reporting system from June to December 2026, requiring exporters to submit data for cross-checking against global prices, with Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia monitoring price reasonableness against international indices.

China extends visa-free facility for Russian citizens until 2027

China has extended its visa-free policy for Russian citizens until 31 December 2027, allowing ordinary Russian passport holders to enter China and stay up to 30 days for business, tourism, visiting family or friends, exchanges, or transit. The extension follows the high-profile visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin to Beijing and reinforces China–Russia's strategic partnership as both nations pledge continued cooperation across political, economic, and regional fields.

Kasih Ibu Hospital Optimises Services by Integrating Privy Digital Signature Ecosystem

Kasih Ibu Hospital Group has integrated certified Electronic Signature technology into its Hospital Management Information System to optimise internal administration and procurement processes. The MoU signing, electronic, occurred in Denpasar on 13 May 2026, reinforcing the hospital's ongoing digital transformation highlighted by EMRAM Level 6 achievement last year.

Stepping Up Efforts to Attract Indonesian Tourists, Singapore Relies on Experience-Based Travel

Traveloka and Resorts World Sentosa sign a Memorandum of Understanding to broaden access to RWS’s premium offerings for Indonesian travellers, emphasising experience-based travel ahead of the mid-2026 holidays. The collaboration leverages Traveloka’s AI-driven recommendations and RWS’s attractions, under a “Summer of Treasures” campaign, with Indonesia identified as a key market for RWS.

Former Central Java Police Senior Commissioner Sentenced to Six Years' Imprisonment in Untag Lecturer Death Case

A former Central Java Police senior officer has been sentenced to six years’ imprisonment for negligence that led to the death of Dwinanda Linchia Levi, a lecturer at Untag Semarang. The court highlighted the defendant’s disregard for the victim’s critical condition and noted an extramarital relationship, alongside prior disciplinary action within the police force.

Surabaya City Government, Pelindo, Pusvetma Tighten Monitoring of Sacrificial Animals

Surabaya’s city government, in partnership with PT Pelindo Terminal Petikemas Surabaya and Pusvetma of the Ministry of Agriculture, has tightened oversight of sacrificial animals ahead of Eid al-Adha 1447 Hijriah/2026. Inspections, running from 18 to 26 May 2026, cover administrative checks and animal health, with vaccination status verified; one animal suspected of scabies was isolated. Pelindo and Pusvetma emphasise their support and national role in preventing livestock diseases.

Mataram City Government Allocates Rp 2.2 Billion to Refurbish Seven Schools

The City of Mataram will revitalise seven primary and junior high schools in 2026 with a total budget of Rp 2.2 billion from APBD. Works include adding classrooms and renovations, with a three-month deadline to be ready for the new academic year. The move forms part of a wider revitalisation plan, with 50 schools proposed for central funding and 26 completed in 2025.

Assets Under Management Reach Rp120 Trillion, OCBC NISP Strengthens Wealth Management Services

As of December 2025, Bank OCBC NISP's wealth management assets under management surpassed Rp120 trillion, driven by demand for integrated asset and investment services. The bank's wealth management CAGR was 29% from 2022 to 2025, with digital wealth transactions rising to 44% of total wealth activity in 2025, and a five-year CAGR of 68% in daily transactional activity across cards and payments. The bank expanded its ecosystem with NYALA and OCBC Premier Banking, plus OCBC Private Bank for UHNW clients, and subsidiaries such as OCBC Sekuritas Indonesia and Great Eastern Life Indonesia.

Bahlil: No More Cuts to Gas Export Quotas in 2026

Energy and Minerals Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia says there will be no further cuts to gas export quotas for contracts already in place in 2026, to give business certainty for KKKS as domestic energy needs are balanced. He adds that all contracted export requests will be approved without administrative hurdles, while domestic supply strategies and domestic offtakers are being pursued to meet demand without disrupting exports.

Delayed Cataract Treatment Can Be Fatal to Vision

A Jakarta briefing by an ophthalmologist warns that delaying cataract surgery can cause permanent vision loss. Global data from the World Health Organization show cataracts affecting more than 100 million people worldwide, with around 17 million blind; in Indonesia, RAAB survey results indicate 3% blindness among those aged 50 and over, with cataracts responsible for about 81% of cases. The report urges timely eye examinations and treatment to prevent avoidable blindness and addresses growing backlog amid access barriers and myths.

Beijing says stabbing of Japanese nationals in Shanghai a single incident

China's foreign ministry described the Shanghai stabbing as a single incident, with authorities stating the attacker acted alone and public safety was at risk. The incident involved a 59-year-old man with mental illness who injured two Japanese nationals and a Chinese national at a Shanghai restaurant before being detained; the case is under investigation. The affair comes amid ongoing China–Japan tensions and past attacks on Japanese nationals in China.

18-year sentence sought, Nadiem's camp optimistic of acquittal

Nadiem Anwar Makarim’s defence team remains confident of an acquittal in the Chromebook procurement corruption case, even as prosecutors demand an 18-year sentence. They argue the charges lack causal link to Nadiem’s shareholding and call for legal rationality in the prosecution. Nadiem, who is also recovering from surgery, faces a case linked to the Ministry of Education’s 2019-2022 digitalisation programme and a CDM procurement previously deemed unnecessary.

University Campus Empowers Belitung's MSMEs to Compete in the Digital Era

Untar's LPPM conducted a four-day capacity-building programme for 80 Belitung UMKM, focusing on public speaking, product design, marketing strategy and rudimentary financial reporting to prepare them for the digital economy. The event involved 20 lecturers and students from eight faculties and was attended by local officials, highlighting ongoing university-led collaboration to bolster the region's SME sector.

Nine Indonesian nationals among 430 Sumud flotilla activists detained and transported to Israel

Nine Indonesian nationals were among the 430 activists detained after Israeli forces intercepted the Global Sumud flotilla while en route to Israel to deliver aid to Gaza. Israel’s Foreign Ministry described the operation as publicity for Hamas, while Adalah condemned the detentions as forcible abductions from international waters. Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono said Jakarta is monitoring the situation and engaging with its missions to obtain accurate information.

Book Discussion: Deputy National Police Chief Reveals Terrorism Is Now Infiltrating Through Digital Space

The Deputy National Police Chief, Komjen Dedi Prasetyo, notes that modern extremism has shifted to the digital realm, demanding early detection, prevention, and cross-sector collaboration. The book discussion of 'Gamifikasi Kekerasan dalam Teror Modern di Era Digital' took place at a Densus 88 technical working meeting in Jakarta, with contributions from scholars and Polri officials. Emphasis is placed on digital literacy, child protection, and the roles of family and schools as long-term defenses, with prevention prioritised ahead of enforcement.

Viral Pocong Impostor Captured by Residents in Tangerang

Video shows residents detaining a person suspected of masquerading as a pocong in the early hours of 20 May; police say they cannot yet confirm the location or the incident's veracity and are tracing the video’s origin. Authorities warn against spreading unverified information, and say the episode may have been exploited by criminals who use fear to commit theft or robbery.

LPSK Urges Police to Prioritise the Maid's Report Against Erin Wartia, Andre Taulany's Ex-Wife; Erin's Defamation Counter-Complaint to Be Deferred

The Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) says the maid's assault report against Erin Wartia, Andre Taulany's ex-wife, should be prioritised. It also requests delaying Erin's defamation counter-claim pending a court decision on the assault case, arguing that victims and witnesses should not be criminalised while the case is ongoing.

Prabowo Greets the Merdeka Farmers’ Action and APPSI Crowd

President Prabowo Subianto greeted participants from the Merdeka Farmers Indonesia and APPSI in Jakarta on 20 May 2026, emphasising close ties between national leadership and grassroots economic groups. The orderly demonstration, which included labour representatives, Ojol and students, pledged to continue efforts to strengthen the people’s economy.

Berkat Cawan ready to establish 7,000 SPKLU to support the green energy transition

Berkat Cawan Group plans to deploy 7,000 SPKLU nationwide to back the government's green energy transition programme, while expanding upstream with a 220 MW hydroelectric project in Sukabumi and existing plants. The company has obtained industrial land permits, PKKPR approvals, and plans a refinery for Pertamina, signalling a broad energy strategy committed to renewables and energy infrastructure.

Cheap Food Movement in Cianjur Held Ahead of Eid al-Adha

The Cheap Food Movement (GPM) in Cianjur, West Java, ran ahead of Eid al-Adha 1447 AH, offering subsidised staples through around 20 partners, including Bulog, to ease price pressures on households before the holiday. The event, part of an agrishow, aims to keep essentials affordable as demand rises around major religious occasions.

Persija to use electric bus from the 2026/2027 season

Persija Jakarta announced it will equip its operations with an electric bus, the Legacy SR3 Neo Panorama, making it the first Indonesian club to adopt an electric bus as an official team vehicle. The bus, produced through a collaboration between Hyundai, Samudra Teknindo Hydraumatik, and PT Laksana Bus Manufaktur, will serve through the 2026/2027 season and features a 300 km range and 38 seats. The launch underscores the club's broader facilities upgrade and environmental ambitions.

Review: The Mandalorian & Grogu — Warm and Entertaining, but Lacking in Depth

Jon Favreau returns as director for The Mandalorian & Grogu, released in Indonesian cinemas on 20 May 2026. The film follows Din Djarin and Grogu on a New Republic mission, entangled with the criminal Hutt family, delivering warmth and charm but critics say the storytelling lacks bite and depth.

Blessings from Caring for One's Parents

Abdullah rejects corrupt wealth and devotes himself to caring for his ageing father. After his father's death, a dream and a sequence of humble choices lead him to a single gold coin, which eventually unlocks a cascade of fortune after diamonds are found inside fish, culminating in royal patronage. The tale highlights filial piety as a powerful and transformative virtue.

UII Provides Banana-Chopper Machines to Gunungkidul MSMEs

Universitas Islam Indonesia (UII) donated banana-chopper machines to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Gunungkidul as part of its community service and to bolster local economic resilience, coinciding with its 83rd anniversary and Indonesia's National Awakening Day. The university emphasises its long-standing public service mission, while local officials highlight potential benefits for education and economic development.

Beijing Responds to US Fact Sheet on Xi-Trump Meeting Outcomes

Beijing rejects the White House’s description of the Xi-Trump talks, saying both sides will push ahead with negotiated understandings and ensure implementation to stabilise bilateral and global trade. The report outlines planned US-China bodies for trade and investment, initial aerospace and agricultural purchases, beef and poultry market access, and joint approaches to AI, Iran, and the Korean Peninsula.

Registration for Jakarta Job Fair 2026 Extended Until 27 May, Applicants Still Able to Register Online

The North Jakarta Suku Dinas of Manpower, Transmigration, and Energy (Nakertransgi) has extended the online registration period for the Jakarta Job Fair 2026 until Wednesday 27 May 2026 after coordination with the Jakarta provincial government. Applicants must create an account on karir.jakarta.go.id and complete their profile, then they can access vacancies via a barcode shared on the Sudin Nakertransgi Jakarta Utara Instagram and submit applications through the Karir Jakarta system. The Jakarta Job Fair previously held on 19–20 May at Gelanggang Jakarta Utara featured 42 companies and thousands of vacancies.

Prabowo's Speech Seen to Reinforce Fiscal and National Economic Policy Direction

The Great Institute welcomed President Prabowo Subianto's direct delivery of the KEM-PPKF foreword for the 2027 RAPBN at the DPR plenary on 20 May, framing the APBN 2027 as a tool to bolster fiscal foundations and steer the national economy amid global uncertainty. Sudarto argues the speech links macro targets with protecting citizens, reforming revenue, and sovereignty over national wealth, while emphasising implementation challenges and the need to strengthen revenue collection, export oversight, and governance of taxation and customs.

Amirulhaj Says Hajj Services Are Running Smoothly, Government Sharpen Armuzna Preparations

Muhaimin Iskandar, a member of Amirulhaj, says the 2026 Hajj operations have progressed smoothly so far, with the departure phase to the arrival in Madinah and Makkah proceeding as planned. The government will now prioritise Armuzna in Arafah, Muzdalifah and Mina, focusing on logistics, health services, and transport coordination, with progress reported at 95% and thousands of pilgrims already en route; a Mina task force has been formed to optimise pilgrim protection and guidance.

Launch of the HAM Journalists Class, Pigai: Without the Press, the World Would Be Dark

Minister of Law and Human Rights Natalius Pigai warned that the world would be dark without journalists, highlighting the press’s crucial role in democracy and human rights. He spoke at the opening of the HAM Journalists Class in Bandung, urging strategic partnerships between the Ministry and the media, and noting rising challenges for journalists amid rapid information-technology change.

Make taxi and ojol drivers the frontline reporters of road traffic accidents

Jasa Raharja is collaborating with the Police's Traffic Corps and driver communities to position taxi and online ride-hailing drivers as first responders for road traffic incidents, promoting the Lapor Laka reporting feature in the JRKu app. The initiative aims to shorten emergency reporting times and streamline victim compensation under Indonesian law, with ongoing updates on traffic management during the Eid period.

Trump Slaps His Own Ally, NATO in Panic

Under President Trump, the Pentagon is delaying the deployment of additional troops to Poland as part of a broader European drawdown from four to three brigades, stirring concerns within NATO amid the ongoing Russia–Ukraine conflict. Washington emphasises a continued strong presence in Poland, but the move has provoked debate in Congress and drew criticism from some Republican lawmakers.

Director Bayu Skak Applauds Government Support for Film Production

Director Bayu Skak has praised the Ministry of Creative Economy for its support in producing the horror-comedy Sekawan Limo 2: Gunung Klawih, including facilitation of local permits and introductions to Malang officials. Filming took place on Mount Kawi in Malang Regency, East Java, and the film is scheduled for release on 27 May 2026; it continues the adventures of five friends while aiming to entertain and provoke reflection to end cycles of hatred.

TelkomGroup Shines at the LinkedIn Talent Awards 2025

TelkomGroup has won two LinkedIn Talent Awards for employer branding and learning. Telkom Indonesia won Best Employer Brand on LinkedIn for the second consecutive year, while Telkomsel was named Learning Champion. The honours underscore TelkomGroup's drive to build a sustainable talent ecosystem and reinforce its reputation as a digital telco in Indonesia.

Industry Minister: Industrial Zones Crucial for Attracting Investment

Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita says industrial zones are essential for attracting investment, as the government advances the Industrial Zone Bill in Parliament. The draft bill requires manufacturing activities to be located within industrial zones and aims to accelerate the shift to a green, sustainable economy, while supporting jobs and downstream development.

Landslide debris on the road to Gorontalo Governor's Office begins to be cleared

Heavy rainfall triggered a landslide that blocked the Sapta Marga road to the Gorontalo Governor's Office. A joint BPBD team began clearing the debris with heavy equipment today, prompted by safety concerns and a directive from the Provincial Secretary to accelerate the operation; officials are also inspecting nearby sections for cracks to prevent a secondary collapse.

US to unveil indictment of former Cuban leader Raúl Castro

The United States Department of Justice is set to unveil criminal charges against Raúl Castro in connection with the 1996 Brothers to the Rescue incident. The announcement, to be made at Freedom Tower in Miami, could heighten tensions between Washington and Havana and influence calls for reform in Cuba, though Raúl Castro remains in Cuba and extradition is unlikely.

Safeguarding equity in Indonesia's fishing fleet modernization

Indonesia has launched a £4 billion maritime investment partnership with the United Kingdom to modernise its fishing fleet, including the domestic construction of 1,582 vessels across several tonnages and a programme to train about 20,000 crew. The plan seeks to raise productivity, safety and catch quality while enforcing strict zone-based access and licensing to protect small-scale fishers; however, observers warn that large modern vessels could still contest traditional grounds, risking disputes if governance gaps appear.

Terpujilah GURU Telkomsel uplifts 1,000 educators in Indonesia

Telkomsel launches Terpujilah GURU, a training and competency development programme for Indonesian educators to help them adapt to AI and digital technology; the programme opened in Bogor with 120 teachers on-site and hundreds more online, and aims to reach over 1,000 teachers between May and September 2026 through stages including Scouting, Screening, Academy, Mentoring and Bootcamp.

Lemhannas marks its 61st anniversary as it strengthens its transformation to face geopolitical challenges

On its 61st anniversary, Lemhannas outlines ongoing institutional transformation to address a more complex global geopolitical landscape, marked by rivalry, technology disruption, and climate change. The institute emphasises the Transformasi Lemhannas theme to strengthen its strategic role in supporting government priorities under President Prabowo Subianto towards Indonesia Emas 2045, while advancing leadership education and strategic policy research.

In a Single Day, 5,781 Afghan Refugees Return to Their Homeland

In a single day, 1,077 Afghan refugee families comprising 5,781 people returned to Afghanistan, with 1,179 of them dispatched to their provinces of origin. The remaining returnees will be sent to their provinces after receiving the necessary assistance, including cash, SIM cards, medical aid, and food supplies at border checkpoints. Since early 2025, over 2.5 million Afghan refugees, the majority of whom originate from Pakistan and Iran, neighboring Afghanistan, have returned home after host countries urged those without official documents to return to their country.

Mendes Ensures Kopdes Will Not Undermine Local Village Businesses

The Indonesian Minister of Villages, Development of Disadvantaged Regions, Yandri Susanto, affirms that Village Cooperatives (Kopdes) will not kill existing village enterprises. He outlines price parity with warungs, plans for a six per cent interest rate for savings and loans, and Kopdes’ integration with government programmes, including PKH and utility payments. Upon handover, Kopdes will be registered as a village asset, with profits partly returning to the village to aid economic equalisation.

One Deckhand Missing in Rupat Strait, Dumai; SAR Team Conducts Search

A combined search and rescue operation is under way after a deckhand went missing off the Rupat Strait near Dumai. The victim, named Agustinus Laia, was last known to be aboard a pompong that had delivered a crew member to Pelindo Dumai; search efforts cover about 6.88 nautical miles and resume the next morning after weather and sea conditions were assessed.

Kemkomdigi emphasises that all PSEs in Indonesia must comply with PP Tunas

Indonesia's Ministry of Communications and Digital (Kemkomdigi) has asserted that all electronic system providers operating in Indonesia must comply with PP Tunas, the government regulation on child protection in the digital space. The instruction applies to both private and public PSEs, with self-assessment of service risk due by 6 June 2026, and ongoing dialogue with industry groups to facilitate compliance. The government has already confirmed that eight private platforms — X, Bigo Live, TikTok, YouTube, Threads, Instagram, Facebook and Roblox — are fully compliant and have restricted access for under-16s.

BI Rate Rises to 5.25 Percent, BI Urges Banks to Improve Efficiency

Bank Indonesia raised the BI Rate by 50 basis points to 5.25% and urged banks to improve operational efficiency to sustain lending growth. The central bank signalled further macroprudential steps to support intermediation and highlighted opportunities in agriculture and trade.

Researchers Warn of the Dangers of Shifting the President's Executive Functions in Defence Governance

Public Policy and Governance researcher Gian Kasogi warns that Indonesia's National Defence Council (DPN) could become a new power centre and gradually erode the President’s executive authority in defence governance. The discussion questions the necessity of the DPN amid existing strategic coordination bodies and cautions against overlapping powers and politicisation, while a legal expert argues the proposal is unnecessary and a waste of taxpayers' money.

Special Export-Focused State-Owned Enterprise Formed, DPR Member Says Indonesia Has Been in a Price-Taker Position

Indonesia plans to form a dedicated export-focused state-owned enterprise, PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia, to tighten governance of natural-resource trade and maximise national gains from strategic commodity exports. Through a one-gate export mechanism, key commodities—such as coal, crude palm oil, nickel and ferro-alloys—would be routed through a unified national trading system, potentially strengthening Indonesia's price-setting power and reducing under-invoicing. The move should be professionally designed to avoid new bureaucratic obstacles, while a government regulation on the governance of export commodities has been issued, mandating that exports from palm oil to coal pass through the state exporter.

Production House Proposes That Films Cleared by LSF Should Be Granted Access to Cinema Screens

At a DPR committee hearing on Creativity and National Film Distribution, production house Sarang Semut's Irham Acho Bachtiar argued that films cleared by the Lembaga Sensor Film should automatically qualify for screening and access cinema screens nationwide to ensure fair distribution. He urged transparency over why some films are not allocated screens and called for regulatory guarantees of a minimum number of screens for qualified productions.

MBG Not Only Fulfils Nutrition, But Also Drives the Rural Economy

Gapembi asserts the Free Nutritious Meals Programme (MBG) not only meets nutritional needs but can also spur a people-powered economy through involvement of local businesses. The programme is described as one of the world's largest nutrition schemes, with directives for SPPGs to involve multiple suppliers. The governor of Lampung sees MBG as a potential means to reduce rural social inequality.

Wakapolri says terrorism is now moving through networks that are hard to detect

Deputy Chief of the Indonesian National Police, Dedi Prasetyo, warned that terrorism and extremism have shifted from a structured model to fluid, algorithm-driven digital networks that resist conventional counter-measures. The forum with BNPT and Kadensus 88 outlined policy directions emphasising early prevention, child protection, digital literacy, and cross-sector collaboration, under Polri’s Grand Strategy 2025–2045 and Renstra 2025–2029, while highlighting Composite Violent Extremism and the 'glocal' nature of extremism and youth vulnerability online.

PRR Task Force Accelerates Borehole and Sanitation Facility Construction for Survivors

The PRR Task Force reports accelerated implementation of boreholes and sanitation facilities across three affected regions, with more than 1,500 sites completed or underway as of 19 May 2026. The initiative, involving multiple government agencies and the private sector, aims to secure reliable access to clean water and basic sanitation for displaced and hosted communities during recovery.

Prosecutor Alleged to Have Received Money Flows From Former Head of the National Land Agency (BPN) Sumbawa and Central Lombok

Subhan's lawyer claims evidence of money transfers to prosecutors, while NTB officials deny. The money-laundering and gratification investigations arise from a 70-hectare land purchase for the MXGP Samota circuit, with Rp52 billion paid and Rp6.7 billion losses recovered; Subhan was BPN Sumbawa head during procurement and is co-defendant with two others, as probes continue.

Government prepares initial phase of 100 GW solar power programme at 17 GW capacity

The Indonesian government is pushing ahead with an initial 17 GW phase of its 100 GW solar power programme to support the national energy transition. The plan outlines two schemes—large-scale grid-connected solar and distributed solar for remote areas—and involves significant investment and job creation, with a target of reaching 100 GW by 2026–2028.

Now Is the Critical Moment to Stop the Spread of Hantavirus — Why?

The Andes hantavirus outbreak on the cruise ship MV Hondius has intensified calls for rapid testing and extended monitoring, with authorities emphasising early-action strategies to prevent transmission. Countries are adopting varied approaches to repatriation and quarantine, while Indonesia mobilises 51 quarantine health centres to curb the spread and evacuations continue under strict protocols.

Iran War Fallout Widens, World's 'Treasure' at Risk

The conflict between Iran and the United States is starting to exert strong pressure on the global technology industry, particularly semiconductor firms that underpin AI, with rising costs and supply-chain disruptions. Major chipmakers warn of higher prices for chemicals and gases, and helium supplies are threatened, underscoring broader risks to the tech supply chain.

Residents Start to Wail as Burger and Coffee Prices Rise Amid Global Crisis

Inflationary pressure on food in the United States persists, with April 2026 CPI up 0.5% month-on-month and 3.2% year-on-year. Beef prices have climbed as major food firms warn that price pressures will linger, prompting consumer shifts to cheaper items; Chipotle has raised some costs, and coffee prices have surged as part of a broader food-price surge.

Stray Bullet Penetrates Resident's House in Ciracas, East Jakarta, Nearly Hitting Sleeping Child

A stray bullet penetrated a resident's house in Ciracas, East Jakarta, on 20 May 2026. The bullet landed in front of the homeowner's child, who was sleeping nearby, and the projectile has been seized by police for investigation. The incident highlights ongoing safety concerns in the area while police investigate the origin of the round.

China-brand car sales in Indonesia rise by 96.2% in April 2026

Wholesale sales of Chinese-brand cars in Indonesia reached 15,851 units in April 2026, up 96.2% year on year as the national auto market recovered. Chinese brands improved their market share to 19.6% from 15.5%, with BYD and Jaecoo leading at 4,625 and 3,219 units. The growth comes from both pure-electric and hybrid segments, and BYD’s new plug-in hybrid, the M6 DM, launched early in the week, underlining a broader shift in Indonesian mobility.

When a Companion Raised His Voice in the Prophet's Presence

The article discusses how tone matters in Islamic etiquette, drawing on Surah al-Hujuraat and the story of Tsabit bin Qais, who feared he might be judged for speaking too loudly before the Prophet. It shows how verses 2 and 3 of al-Hujuraat were revealed to teach humility, taqwa, and proper conduct before the Prophet.

GAPPRI Appreciates Finance Minister Purbaya's Decision Not to Raise the Tobacco Excise Tariff in 2027

GAPPRI welcomed Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa's decision to keep the Tobacco Excise Tariff unchanged in 2027, arguing it supports national economic stability and protects around six million tobacco industry jobs. The association urged a data-driven crackdown on illegal cigarettes and called for careful regulation of packaging, nicotine limits, and additives, while emphasising inclusive dialogue to balance health objectives with economic development.

Surakarta Police Arrest 55 Suspects in Narcotics Case, 1.2 kg of Methamphetamine Seized

The Surakarta Police (Polresta Surakarta) say they have arrested 55 narcotics suspects across 43 cases in the last five months, with seizures including 1.2 kilograms of methamphetamine, 83 psychotropic tablets, 14 ecstasy tablets and three cannabis plants. Two cases were highlighted: one involving 25 Alprazolam pills found near Matahari Singosaren Plaza and another with 58 Alprazolam pills; 10 of the suspects are repeat offenders. Police say they will intensify efforts to curb narcotics distribution in Solo and have urged the public to report drug activity.

Reasons for Jogja Keraton's Grand Garebeg Held Without Arak-arakan and Rayahan

The Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat Keraton has simplified the Garebeg Besar ceremony, cancelling the arak-arakan and the rayahan gunungan, following a dhawuh from Sultan Hamengku Buwono X. The changes reflect the tradition’s adaptability to time and circumstance, with earlier adjustments during the Covid-19 pandemic and the Indonesian independence period, while preserving the ceremony’s essential meaning.

Government Introduces Tourism Incentives to Cope with Geopolitical Dynamics

Indonesia's government has announced incentives for the tourism sector to mitigate disruptions from global geopolitical tensions, notably in the Middle East and the resulting rise in jet fuel prices. Measures include discounts on economy-class air tickets, VAT coverage by the state, and zero per cent import duty on aircraft spare parts, aimed at keeping travel affordable and boosting the sector. Officials emphasise attracting quality tourists and leveraging Indonesia's hospitality to improve competitiveness as the dollar strengthens.

BNN Discusses Potential Collaboration to Prevent Misuse of E-Cigarettes

The East Java Chamber of Commerce (Kadin Jatim) and the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) held talks on preventing misuse of vape products, emphasising the need for scientific data to counter any move toward a total ban. The discussion highlighted regulatory improvements to safeguard the legal vape sector and its jobs while maintaining public safety and state revenue.

1.04-tonne Cow from Central Lombok Bought by Prabowo – Rp499 Billion in Economic Activity

A 1.04-tonne kurban cow named Black Panther from Central Lombok, owned by Ahmad Dimiati, was selected for President Prabowo Subianto's Eid al-Adha assistance. The animal, weighing around 1.04 tonnes and valued at Rp142 million, is expected to reach about 1.1 tonnes before shipment; NTB authorities report 27,449 kurban cattle shipped from the province, generating an estimated Rp499 billion in economic turnover, with shipments concentrated to Jabodetabek.

Ahead of Idul Adha, Baznas Offers Easier Qurban and Expands Benefits to Others

Baznas RI, in collaboration with LinkAja Syariah, launches a digital Qurban programme ahead of Idul Adha 2026 to widen access and ensure beneficiaries across Indonesia. The scheme features transparent, trustworthy processes and promotional incentives, plus detailed livestock prices and a step-by-step guide for participating via the LinkAja Syariah platform, while local authorities curb animal-health concerns at markets.

China and the United States Agree to Discuss a Reciprocal Tariff-Reduction Scheme

China and the United States have broadly agreed to discuss, under the Trade Council, a framework for reciprocal tariff reductions on products worth around USD 30 billion or more for each side. The products targeted are expected to enjoy Most-Favoured-Nation tariffs or even lower rates, according to a Chinese official, with early findings from recent China–US economic and trade consultations. The scheme could stabilise and expand bilateral trade and offer a reference point for open global cooperation, as both sides’ economic teams commit to close dialogue and early implementation.

BNPB urges regions to be vigilant over the impact of prolonged drought

BNPB has issued guidance to regional disaster agencies to prepare for drought impacts in the 2026 dry season and to mitigate fire risks, with emphasis on contingency planning and community readiness. The initiative, announced in Jember and supported by the SIAP SIAGA programme, underlines multi-stakeholder disaster risk reduction in East Java.

Bahlil Urges Oil Firms to Tap Oil from Community-Run Old Wells

The Indonesian government has instructed concession holders to rapidly collect crude oil from decades-old wells operated by local communities, following the legalisation of community-sourced oil. The move aims to boost national oil lifting and strengthen energy security, with Pertamina and private KKKS urged to expedite processing for MSMEs involved.

PSI Ready to Welcome Jokowi Across Regions as He Tours Indonesia

The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) says it is ready to welcome former president Joko Widodo in every region if a planned nationwide tour goes ahead. PSI's acting chairman Ahmad Ali stated this after meeting Jokowi in Solo on 20 May 2026, saying PSI cadres nationwide would greet him during visits, while discussions also covered Jokowi's health and his public-engagement plans. Initiated in part by Projo volunteers, the talks consider health and logistics as the plan is studied further, reflecting Jokowi's nostalgia-driven drive to reconnect with Indonesians.

Taman Puring Market traders offered relocation to Cidodol and Mampang Markets

Traders at Taman Puring Market in South Jakarta say they were offered relocation to Cidodol and Mampang Markets during plans to redevelop the market after a 2025 fire. They want certainty about rebuilding rather than the site being repurposed as a park. With about 180 traders remaining on the site, authorities are weighing options, including a disability garden, and urging swift action.

Five New Google Features for Checking Photo Authenticity and AI Detection

Google has introduced a suite of verification tools to help users distinguish genuine photos from AI-generated manipulations. The features include contextual image history in search, AI-edited image labeling, a quick 'Search Image with Google' option, SynthID watermarking from Google DeepMind, and an 'AI Info' detail in Google Photos, with cautions about metadata tampering.

Law and Human Rights Minister says government is awaiting DPR to discuss the Electoral Bill

The government is ready to discuss revisions to the General Elections Law but will await the DPR's scheduling. DPR Speaker Puan Maharani says the Electoral Bill should prioritise fairness and not disadvantage the public, and discussions will continue in both informal and formal forums to create the best system for the people.

Envelope Code '1' Uncovered for Customs Officials in Blueray Cargo Bribery Case

Orlando Hamonangan testified that an envelope coded '1' was part of the bribery case involving Blueray Cargo owner John Field. He said envelopes coded 2 and 3 went to Rizal and Sisprian Subiaksono respectively, while the recipient of envelope code '1' remains unknown. The KPK has named multiple suspects, including Blueray executives, and says the aim was to prevent checks on imported goods.

Home Affairs Ministry: Kopdes as Momentum to Strengthen Village Self-Reliance

The inauguration of 1,061 Merah Putih Village/Desa Cooperatives (KDKMP) marks a milestone in boosting village-based self-reliance and local economies. The event, attended by senior government figures, frames cooperatives as engines of economic justice and national food security through closer central–regional cooperation.

Foreign Minister Sugiono Reveals Efforts to Secure the Release of Four Indonesian Crew of MT Honour 25 in Somalia

Foreign Minister Sugiono announced ongoing intensive diplomacy to secure the release of four Indonesian nationals held hostage aboard MT Honour 25 by pirates off Somalia. The case runs alongside efforts to free nine Indonesian humanitarian workers detained by Israeli authorities in Gaza, with cross-border coordination involving Nairobi and Karachi. The government says securing the safety of its citizens remains the top priority and aims for a timely resolution.

A 12-year-old boy dies after drowning in Kali Baru, Kramat Jati, East Jakarta

A 12-year-old boy named M. Aditya Naufal was found dead after drowning in the Kali Baru river in Kampung Tengah, Kramat Jati, East Jakarta. The incident occurred while the group of children were swimming; the area is known for river activity after rain, and police are investigating to determine the cause of death. The community mourns as authorities review the events.

Military Police Detachment Speaks Out After Civilian Wounded in Raid on Subsidised Gas Refilling Operation

An Indonesian Military Police detachment has spoken after a civilian was wounded by a ricochet during a raid on a subsidised gas refilling operation in Cileungsi, Bogor. The authorities say the incident, which involves allegations of protection by an TNI AD personnel, has been resolved amicably, with the case now under Pomdam Siliwangi's oversight.

Jatinegara School Uniform Sellers Wary Ahead of the New Academic Year

Small traders at Pasar Jatinegara warn of weaker demand as prices rise and the rupiah weakens, just ahead of the June–July back-to-school period. Sock and school uniform sellers fear sales this year could be lower than last year’s, despite a typical peak during the back-to-school season.

Panic over stray bullet in Ciracas as police conduct crime-scene investigation at resident's home

An apparent stray bullet entered a rental house in Ciracas, East Jakarta, around 09:50 WIB on 20 May, narrowly missing a seven-year-old child in the living room. Ciracas Police are investigating the incident as they inspect the roof for the bullet’s origin, with no entry hole found in preliminary checks; investigators will determine the source and whether any negligence or crime occurred. Local residents are calling for the origin of the shot to be revealed to ensure neighbourhood safety.

BPOM Bali Seizes Thousands of Illegal Medicines, 15 Cases Uncovered via Courier Services

BPOM Bali disclosed 15 cases of illegal medicines circulating through courier services since 2023, with about 173,000 tablets seized and an estimated value of Rp200 million. Authorities stressed that the crackdown aims to protect public health and prevent harm, not merely punish offenders.

Ministry of Tourism urges hotel operators to improve waste management

The Indonesian Ministry of Tourism is pressing hotel operators to enhance waste and effluent management as part of promoting sustainable tourism. It plans pilot projects in several tourist destinations and aims to align regulations with local government waste disposal practices.

Former Serang City ATR/BPN Head Named a Suspect in Licensing Pungli Case

Former head of the Serang City Land Office and five other officials have been named suspects in an alleged licensing corruption scheme. The six suspects are linked to two divisions within the Serang City BPN—Rights Determination and Land Registration (PHP) and Survey and Mapping (SP)—and have been detained for 20 days during the investigation.

Korlantas' ETLE Drone Patrol Becomes More Sophisticated, Detecting Number Plates with ANPR

The Indonesian Police's traffic corps is deploying ANPR-enabled ETLE Drones to identify vehicle number plates automatically within the odd-even restriction zones, speeding up enforcement and improving traffic surveillance in urban areas. Officials say the move forms part of Polri's digital transformation, enabling a more transparent and efficient electronic enforcement system. The technology is expected to boost compliance with traffic rules and support safer, smoother urban flows.

Prabowo and Daud Yordan Exchange Boxing-Style Gestures at DPR Plenary

Prabowo Subianto attends the DPR plenary to present the macroeconomic framework (KER) and the main policy of fiscal policy (PPKF) for the 2027 RAPBN. A video shows the two men exchanging boxing-style gestures in a parliament corridor before sharing a light-hearted moment and a hug; Daud Yordan calls it a joke and emphasises their long friendship. Daud quips that he might be the only boxer willing to invite the President to a playful altercation, who he says is a longtime friend.

Prabowo Orders Bureaucrats Not to Take Too Many Initiatives

President Prabowo told civil servants not to act unilaterally in the government he leads, emphasising adherence to the directives of the president and ministers. He argued that excessive initiative by bureaucrats slows licensing processes and contrasted Indonesia with neighbouring countries, urging ministers to clamp down on the bureaucracy. The remarks came as he presented the macroeconomic framework and key fiscal policy (KEM-PPKF) to the DPR.

Strengthen Wealth Capabilities, OCBC Facilitates Wealth Management for Various Segments - VOI.id

OCBC NISP is expanding its wealth-management capabilities to serve individuals, families, and businesses in Indonesia, supported by an integrated ecosystem including PT OCBC Sekuritas Indonesia and GELI. The bank reports a 29% CAGR in wealth management from 2022 to 2025, exceeding Rp120 trillion, with digital wealth transactions rising from 30% to 44% in 2025 and bond transactions on digital platforms up 50% YoY. It offers three tailored services—NYALA by OCBC, OCBC Premier Banking, and OCBC Private Bank—to deliver comprehensive, end-to-end wealth solutions and asset protection across generations.

DKI Provincial Government Allocates Rp1.9 trillion for Slum Area Redevelopment Since 2018

Jakarta's provincial government has earmarked around Rp1.9 trillion for slum renewal in Jakarta for 2018–2025, averaging about Rp200 billion per year. The programme largely targets upgrading existing RW kumuh to improve living conditions, while noting obstacles such as high population density, land shortages, and land ownership issues. The initiative aligns with a reported drop in kumuh RW from 445 in 2017 to 211 in 2026, though 211 RW remain kumuh, mainly in West and North Jakarta.

Foreign Ministry Direct Communications with Somali Pirates Holding Indonesian Nationals

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has conducted direct talks with Somali pirates holding four Indonesian nationals aboard the MT Honour 25, as part of efforts to secure their release. The government says it is coordinating with embassies in Nairobi and Karachi and is continuing discussions over the pirates' demands.

Purbaya Ready to Evaluate Director General of Customs After Prabowo's Rebuke

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa says he is prepared to evaluate the Director General of Customs if ordered by President Prabowo Subianto, as the President calls for leadership changes and a crackdown on corruption and bureaucratic abuse to ensure faster, more professional public service. Prabowo urges reform across ministries and agencies and notes ongoing reports of illicit levies in bureaucratic services.

MPR deems detention of Gaza volunteers a breach of international law

Indonesian Deputy Speaker Hidayat Nur Wahid condemns Israel’s detention of humanitarian volunteers and international journalists during a Gaza aid mission as a breach of international law and human rights. He cites international waters as the battleground for the 332 detentions, calls for intensified diplomacy through the UN and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, and urges swift action to free nine Indonesians detained, including three journalists.

Three Factors That Determine the Quality and Flavor of a Cup of Tea

Tea is deeply rooted in Indonesian culture, with surveys showing it as the second-most consumed beverage after plain water and widely present in households. The piece explains how terroir, picking, and processing shape quality, and how Sosro maintains strict standards from plantations to its bottled teas.

Students Encouraged to Build a Resilient Mindset to Face the World of Work

Bank Central Asia (BCA) promotes the BBI programme at Untirta to bridge students with industry leaders and deepen practical understanding of the working world. The initiative emphasises resilience and the 'Ukemi' philosophy, encouraging students to view failure as a chance to grow. A solar-powered gazebo charging station was also unveiled on campus to advance Untirta's green campus concept.

San Diego Mosque Shooting: Religious Leaders Condemn Rhetoric of Hate

Two teenage suspects in the San Diego mosque shooting died near the scene; the incident has spurred religious leaders to condemn anti-Muslim hate, while U.S. lawmakers consider extra security funding for houses of worship; observers warn against political rhetoric that dehumanises minority communities.

Tangerang City Online Job Fair Held 18-30 May 2026: Here's How to Register

The Tangerang City Government has reopened the Online Job Fair for May 2026, offering 693 vacancies from 10 firms. Running 18–30 May 2026 via the Tangerang LIVE app on the Tangerang Cakap Kerja feature, the event includes 37 job formations across education levels from VET to Bachelor's degrees. The authorities emphasise the online format expands access to vacancies and streamlines applications, with further details published on the official Disnaker platforms.

Bank Jatim Board of Directors Increases Shareholdings, Committed to Sustainable Growth

Bank Jatim's board of directors conducted a series of share purchases, underscoring management's optimism about the bank's sustainable growth and governance. The trades, led by CEO Winardi Legowo and followed by several other directors, boosted individual shareholdings and signalled confidence in Bank Jatim's fundamentals and long-term value.

Government Ready to Discuss the Electoral Bill, but Still Waiting for the DPR

The government says it is ready to discuss revisions to Law Number 7 of 2017 on General Elections but is waiting for the House of Representatives (DPR) to take the initiative. With the 2029 contest still some years away, officials deem the revision not urgent; Commission II has begun public hearings and aims to finalise a new Election Law by late 2026, focusing on five priority issues.

Electric bus TKDN target to reach 60 percent as government prepares incentives

Indonesia aims to accelerate the electric bus sector by tying incentives to higher TKDN levels, with the TKDN target rising to 60% in 2026. The Ministry of Industry is revising TKDN calculation rules to include more local bus body-building components, while the Ministry of Transport emphasises safety and roadworthiness in the modernisation drive. The policy is being rolled out alongside Busworld Southeast Asia 2026.

Global Expansion Through Expanding International Market Opportunities

Indonesian health-food brand Lemonilo is leveraging SIAL Shanghai 2026 to broaden its international footprint, presenting its healthy snacks at booth E3 F015 and highlighting partnerships across Asia. The event underscores a focus on digital supply chains, future foods, and international collaborations, as Lemonilo seeks to bring Indonesian healthy foods to a wider market. The report also touches on VIDA's 'Faces of Fraud' exhibit addressing the emotional impact of digital fraud.

Asset Strengthening and Profitability Improvement to Shape the 2026 Business Strategy

OK Bank will focus on strengthening assets to underpin sustainable growth, boost profitability, and fortify funding. Its 2025 results show improved assets, funding, lending and profitability, with notable gains in RoA, RoE, NIM and capital adequacy, underpinning a strategic push for 2026.

Not Iran, Drone from a Gulf State Attacks Arab Nuclear Centre

The UAE says six drones targeted its territory in the last 48 hours, with three aimed at the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant. One drone breached the air defence system and struck a generator outside the plant’s perimeter, while authorities say there was no radioactive release. The incident has prompted international concern, with the UN Security Council addressing the issue and the IAEA warning of potential catastrophic consequences if the reactor were to be hit.

Eddy Soeparno backs Prabowo in reforming export governance

Eddy Soeparno backs President Prabowo's push to reform the governance of commodity exports, emphasising the constitutional mandate on natural resource management; the PAN deputy general chairman stresses issues of under invoicing and transfer pricing that depress state revenue and foreign exchange. He urges careful implementation, greater transparency, and dialogue with industry as the government moves toward a new export mechanism.

Anita Tanjung Urges CT Arsa High School Graduates to Become Agents of Change

The 14th cohort of SMA Unggulan CT Arsa Foundation achieved a 100 percent graduation rate with 91 students, and about 81 percent have gained entry to higher education through multiple pathways. The school emphasises four pillars, while Anita Ratnasari Tanjung calls graduates to become agents of change, aligning with CT Arsa’s mission to tackle poverty through education and health.

Impressive Used-Car Sales Performance, ASLC Targets Double-Digit Growth in 2026

ASLC, which operates in motor vehicle auctions (JBA), used-car retail Caroline.id, and pawn services MotoGadai, targets double-digit growth in 2026. Caroline.id's strong revenue contribution supports optimism, with capex planned for expansion and a dividend approved at the AGM.

Lili's Struggle to Find Work: Difficult to Find Roles Matching Her Experience

Lili, a 35-year-old job seeker at Jakarta's Job Fair, says finding roles that fit her administration and back-office background remains hard. She notes job openings skew toward sales and marketing and cites age-related eligibility as a growing barrier, despite ongoing side business activities to cover living costs. The story highlights ongoing challenges in the labour market for experienced workers facing age constraints.

Madiun City Government to stage 29 events in 108th anniversary celebrations

The Madiun City Government unveiled a programme of 29 events for the 108th anniversary celebrations, running from 29 May to 25 July 2026 under the theme 'Madiun Berkilau'. Acting Mayor Bagus Panuntun said the series aims to showcase local talent and boost the local economy by involving artists, communities, young creators, and MSMEs, while fostering a new creative ecosystem in the city.

Before-and-after portrait of the drug-trafficking fugitive Pak Cik, allegedly underwent plastic surgery

Indonesian police say a fugitive drug trafficker known as Pak Cik has allegedly undergone plastic surgery, with an AI-generated sketch showing a different appearance. They say Lukmanul Hakim alias Hendra is believed to have changed nationality to Saint Kitts and Nevis and may be in Malaysia, triggering an Interpol Red Notice and police-to-police cooperation with Malaysia. Investigators have traced 14,961 transactions totalling Rp 464,144,761,398.46 across four accounts linked to Hendra between 28 December 2018 and 31 March 2026.

Anies Urges Graduates to Be Resilient Despite Difficult Conditions

Anies Baswedan, representing the Kagama, addressed UGM graduates on 20 May 2026, urging them to persevere amid a slowing economy and challenging job market. He cited historical examples of crisis-era graduates building resilience, emphasised integrity and lifelong learning, and warned against neglecting ideals in the transition to professional life.

Resident shot as TNI raids subsidised-gas operators in Bogor

A video circulating on social media shows a civilian being shot during a raid on a subsidised-gas operation in Cileungsi, Bogor. The case is being handled by Pomdam Siliwangi, with a warning shot fired as villagers resisted; the civilian sustained a shoulder injury. The incident has been resolved amicably with the TNI taking responsibility for the injured individual.

Jasamarga Dismantles Sadang Toll Gate in Purwakarta

PT Jasamarga Japek Selatan is dismantling the Old Sadang Toll Gate in Purwakarta as part of access works for the Sadang Interchange on the Jakarta-Cikampek II South Toll Road. The project includes the demolition of the Old Sadang Toll Gate and preparation for Ramp 5 and Ramp 7, with traffic diversions and safer on-site arrangements. Phase 1 demolition runs 21–30 May 2026, followed by Phase 2 from 31 May to 11 June 2026; officials emphasise safety and apologise for any inconvenience.

Cirebon City Government calls on Kadin to bolster a more inclusive regional economy

Cirebon's city government will collaborate with the local Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) to pursue inclusive and sustainable regional growth, emphasising MSMEs, investment climate, and digital transformation. The city aims to leverage its Pantura position and Rebana Metropolitan Area to diversify trade and services, while Kadin pledges strategic partnership to empower local businesses at national and global levels.

Prabowo Cuts Free Meal Budget by $3.77 Billion - Jakarta Globe

Indonesia trimmed the Free Meal Program (MBG) budget by Rp 67 trillion to Rp 268 trillion ($3.77 billion) as part of President Prabowo Subianto’s efficiency drive, with officials stressing the move targets better management rather than fewer benefits. Despite the cuts, spending absorption has risen through 2026 and the reach has expanded to around 62 million recipients by April 2026, including about 48.8 million students. The government says it will continue to support the programme while pursuing efficiency improvements.

Stray bullet pierces roof of house in Ciracas, narrowly misses a child

A stray bullet penetrated the ceiling of a rented house in Ciracas, East Jakarta, narrowly missing a seven-year-old boy who was studying in the living room. Police arrived to inspect the scene and search for the entry point and the bullet's source, but no other hole had yet been found. Residents urge authorities to determine the origin of the shot to prevent a repeat and safeguard the community, especially children.

Montsechia vidalii: the oldest flowering plant in the world, alive since the age of the dinosaurs

New research on more than 1,000 fossils reveals that Montsechia vidalii, an ancient freshwater plant from Spain, is the oldest known flowering plant, dating to around 130 million years ago. The discovery, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, places it in the Cretaceous alongside iconic dinosaurs and revises the plant’s evolutionary history. Scientists used chemical analyses and electron microscopy to reveal features showing enclosed seeds, reinforcing its place in the story of flowering plant evolution.

Pigai rejects calls to shoot robbers on the spot without due process

Indonesian Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai rejects calls to shoot crime suspects on the spot without due process, emphasising the need for alive arrests to uphold legal rights and allow investigation. He warns that endorsing extrajudicial killings could carry legal consequences, in the wake of a Lampung police chief's 'shoot on sight' order amid rising robberies.

Criminal Expert Explains the Status of the Gratification Giver in the 'Ghost Money' Case Involving NTB DPRD

A criminal law lecturer from Universitas Brawijaya testified as an expert in the ongoing case involving NTB DPRD members accused of receiving and returning bribe money. The expert explained when the giver and receiver can be punished, noted that returned money can be used as evidence, and outlined the 30-day reporting window to the KPK. The case is linked to the Desa Berdaya programme funded at Rp76 billion by the NTB governor, Lalu Muhammad Iqbal.

National Awakening Day: UMJ Launches I-CHIP to Safeguard Indonesia's Health Future

On National Awakening Day 2026, Muhammadiyah University Jakarta (UMJ) officially launched I-CHIP, the Indonesian Center for Health Evidence-Informed Policy, a transdisciplinary centre to strengthen national health policy based on scientific evidence and social justice. The centre will focus on transforming primary health services, fair health financing, climate-resilient health, and the autonomy of national pharmaceutical and medical device sectors, while collaborating across disciplines and with national partners.

Danantara to Soon Announce Board of Directors for the Sole Exporter State-Owned Enterprise

Danantara Indonesia will soon announce the directors of PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia (DSI), the new state-owned enterprise created as the sole exporter of several strategic commodities. The company will oversee rather than set prices to ensure market-based trade and to curb under invoicing, a practice officials say has deprived the state of significant revenue since 1991, amounting to about Rp 15,400 trillion, roughly Rp 5,000 trillion per year. The initial commodities under the mechanism include crude palm oil, coal, and ferro-alloy, with ongoing cross-ministry coordination before the announcement.

Indonesia's Economic Outlook According to the World Bank for 2026 and a Strategy for Resilience

World Bank's Indonesia Economic Prospects projections for 2026 highlight continued domestic vulnerabilities amid global uncertainty, including inflationary pressure and a weakening middle class. The report underscores the need for structural reforms and prudent fiscal space, with digitalisation and green finance identified as key drivers of resilient, job-rich growth. Welfare indicators show poverty remains sensitive to food inflation, underscoring the importance of inclusive welfare and formal-sector employment.

Prosecutor Reveals Meeting Between Director-General of Customs and Blueray Cargo Owner

Prosecutors say a closed-door meeting took place at the Borobudur Hotel on 22 July 2025 involving the Director-General of Customs and the owner of Blueray Cargo, John Field, among others. The arrangement was allegedly orchestrated by a Customs official, Ocoy, who testified that he was instructed to contact John, but he did not know the reasons for the meeting. The case highlights ongoing corruption probes within Indonesia’s customs service and raises questions about potential undue influence over import procedures.

Marco Rubio Accuses Cuban Leadership of Causing Suffering Among Its People

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio marked Cuba's Independence Day with a Spanish-language video addressing Cubans, accusing the communist leadership of responsible for the people's suffering and highlighting GAESA's dominance of the economy. The remarks form part of a broader US pressure campaign, and come amid anticipated DOJ charges against Raúl Castro and renewed disputes over the embargo. Rubio's 'New Cuba' vision calls for private enterprise and political rights, while Cuba blames the embargo for its hardships.

As Eid al-Adha Arrives, Buttonscarves Launches Haramain 2 Series

Buttonscarves has unveiled Haramain 2 Series, a new scarf collection inspired by the grandeur of the Holy Land, ahead of Eid al-Adha. The line includes 12 colours and multiple variants across Southeast Asia, plus a Haramain 2 Prayer Robe. The collection aims to evoke the calm, beauty, and longing associated with visiting Mecca and Medina, with remarks from CEO Linda Anggrea on translating these feelings into meaningful pieces.

Gresik Unveils AI-based Digital Legal Services Ecosystem, Maintains Top JDIH Award

Gresik Regency has launched an AI-based digital legal services ecosystem within its JDIH portal and secured the Best II award for regional government at the East Java JDIH awards ceremony, while the DPRD won Best I. The initiative includes LexA-Gresik, an AI assistant via WhatsApp, and features such as Policy Brief AI and KUHP-Assistance, aiming to broaden access to regulation and modernise governance.

Danantara Secures Candidate Names for PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia Leadership, the New State-Owned SDA Exporter

Danantara says it has secured candidates for the leadership of PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia (DSI), a government-established state-owned enterprise that is set to operate as the sole exporter of strategic natural-resource commodities. The recruitment is ongoing, with identities to be announced; the firm also outlines a two-stage plan to become an intermediary and later a trader, amid concerns about under-invoicing in export activity.

Komdigi Showcases Indonesia's National Data Centre with a 25,000-Core Processor

The Indonesian government announced that the country now has a national data centre (NDC) with a 25,000-core processor, 200 terabytes of memory and 40 petabytes of storage, supported by 5.2 megawatts of power, with a further 20 MW possible. It also outlined plans for two additional NDCs in Batam and the IKN, and highlighted regulatory measures and targets to boost data centre capacity per capita by 2029.

Threat to State Revenue, Purbaya Reveals Under-Invoicing and Transfer Pricing Schemes in Natural Resource Exports

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa argues that establishing PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia as a Special Export State-Owned Enterprise could boost state revenue by curbing under-invoicing and transfer pricing in natural resource exports. He said AI-assisted investigations traced how some Indonesian companies route goods through Singapore before ultimate delivery to the United States, raising concerns about export price manipulation. The findings also point to similar transfer pricing patterns in coal exports to India, implying significant potential losses in tax revenue.

The Prophet Muhammad and the Stones Tied to Suppress Hunger

During a night prayer, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) bound his stomach with a belt of stones to curb hunger, prompting Umar to wonder if he was ill. He explained that he preferred hunger to avoid burdening those he led and to deter greed. The account underlines the spiritual value of hunger and fasting, and the reward for hunger and thirst in the sight of Allah.

Lestari Moerdijat Highlights Indigenous Peoples' Role in Protecting Local Food Ecosystems

Lestari Moerdijat emphasises that indigenous territories safeguard forests and local foods, stressing that indigenous communities are key guardians of biodiversity and sustainable food sovereignty. A Denpasar forum on biodiversity and traditional knowledge links national commemorations to global biodiversity goals and urges policy action to recognise Indigenous rights and decentralise food systems.

BNN says achievements stem from a healthy lifestyle and being drug-free

The Indonesian National Narcotics Agency (BNN) opened the Kapolri Cup 2026 Basketball Tournament in Tangerang, emphasising that achievements arise from a healthy, drug-free lifestyle and that sport can help prevent narcotics abuse among the youth. BNN chief Suyudi Ario Seto described the event as a means to strengthen police solidarity and character ahead of Hari Bhayangkara Ke-80, with participation from police and anti-drug officials.

The Dangers of Headphones for Hearing and How to Use Them Safely

The article highlights the risk of hearing damage from high-volume headphones and earbuds, stressing that sound delivered directly to the ear canal can cause noise-induced hearing loss. It discusses safe listening practices, including the 60-60 rule, and advises consulting an audiologist if symptoms arise, while noting some basic brand features that aid safer listening.

The President's Presence at the DPR Plenary Session Must Make an Impact

BRIN analyst Lili Romli describes President Prabowo Subianto’s personal delivery of the KEM-PPKF RAPBN 2027 to the DPR plenary as a new departure, with potential to bolster policy coherence but requiring real monetary and fiscal action to stabilise markets. The report also notes reactions from NasDem’s Surya Paloh and mentions related policy steps in natural resources governance and financial regulation.

Putin hopes education cooperation with China will be unlimited

Putin said the prospects for Russia–China educational cooperation are 'unlimited' during Xi Jinping's Beijing visit, announcing the launch of a cross-generational education programme and the Institute of Innovation Studies linking St. Petersburg University with Tsinghua. He also highlighted rising numbers of language learners and a bilateral World War II history project, while China extended visa-free access for Russians to 2027 to boost exchanges.

Toyota GR Car Meet 2026: Indonesia's First and Largest Toyota-Exclusive Car Meet Festival

Toyota-Astra Motor organised the Toyota GR Car Meet 2026 at Parkir Timur GBK Senayan, Jakarta, on Saturday 16 May, billed as the biggest Toyota-exclusive car meet in Indonesia. The event showcased over 400 curated Toyota showcars, spanning racing, stance, off-road, campervan, daily use, and JDM, with participation from 21 Toyota Owners Club communities and 21 collaboration partners, including GAZOO Racing Indonesia and Toyota Nation. Toyota emphasised its ‘GR Drive for Every Lifestyle’ philosophy and outlined four pillars—Motorsport, Product, Community, and Communication—to embed GR into mainstream Indonesian car culture.

Bareskrim Polri clinches overall title at the Kapolri Cup 2026 National Judo Championship

The Polri's Bareskrim team dominated the Kapolri Cup 2026 National Judo Championship in Samarinda, clinching the overall title with five golds, one silver and one bronze in internal Polri competition, and collecting the Kapolri Trophy and Rp100 million in prize money. In the general category, Jakarta’s PJSI won the national title, while individual awards went to Melia Kubus (Men) and Putri Ananta Sari (Women).

Hajj Ministry intensifies search for missing Indonesian pilgrim in Mecca

Indonesia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, via the Saudi-based Petugas Penyelenggara Ibadah Haji (PPIH), has intensified the search for Muhammad Firdaus Ahlan, a prospective haj pilgrim from JKG 27 Rombongan 1 of KBIH Imam Bonjol, reported missing in Mecca. Special protection teams have been deployed across hotel areas, the Masjid al-Haram precincts, and main thoroughfares, with reinforcements from Madinah; hospitals in Mecca and surrounding areas are being checked. The operation is coordinated with Saudi police, and the public is urged to stay calm and report verified information to prevent hoaxes; the authorities will continue updating the family and the public.”,

Director Change at Jantra Grupo Indonesia Tbk (KAQI) Aims for Business Growth and Digital Transformation

KAQI appointed Simon Arosokhi Gulo as director and Corporate Secretary, replacing Dodon Tri Koeswardana at an Extraordinary General Meeting on 20 May 2026, as part of its business transformation through expansion and digitalisation. The company will focus on human capital, digitalised operations, customer service expansion, and product diversification, with gradual expansion from Java to Sumatra and Sulawesi, and preparations for electric and autonomous vehicles. Shareholders approved using all 2025 net income as a general reserve with no dividend; KAQI posted revenue of Rp 76.84 billion and net profit of Rp 9.4 billion in 2025, up from 57.51 billion and 9.12 billion respectively in 2024.

Tangerang Immigration Deportation of 19 Foreign Nationals Suspected of Love-Scamming Syndicate

The Tangerang Class I Special Non-TPI Immigration Office deported 19 foreign nationals over alleged involvement in an online fraud network using the love-scamming modus operandi, linked to operations previously based in Cambodia. The suspects were arrested at an apartment in Teluknaga, Tangerang Regency, after reports of suspicious activity; authorities seized multiple devices and documents and published details of their immigration permit statuses before deporting them to their home countries.

Regional Innovation Is the Mandate of the Law

Yusharto Huntoyungo emphasises that regional innovation is the mandate of Law No. 23 of 2014 on Local Government, with the ministry assessing all regions to map national innovation capacity. Mojokerto is commended for five consecutive years as a highly innovative area, while 2026 fiscal incentives are being discussed to reward innovation. The piece also notes challenges—funding, downstreaming, and cultivating an innovation culture—and highlights programmes such as HAT, Danantara financing, and BRIN collaboration to bolster regional innovation.

WHO: Ebola Outbreak Risk High at Regional Level, Low Globally

The World Health Organization warns that the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is at high risk at national and regional levels but remains low globally, with the virus likely circulating for months before detection. The WHO Director-General has declared the situation a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, though it has not met the criteria for a pandemic. Authorities emphasise tracing, isolation, and care for suspected and confirmed cases, while the outbreak strains political relations and raises questions about international response and funding.

DPR member: Creation of export-dedicated state-owned enterprises to strengthen natural resource sovereignty

Indonesian MP Ahmad Labib argues for a new export-focused state-owned enterprise under Danantara to integrate national trade and curb revenue leakage from strategic commodity exports. He says the model could strengthen Indonesia's bargaining power and governance of natural-resource exports, while warning against bureaucratic obstacles and urging broad stakeholder involvement.

Indonesian Press Council condemns Israeli military interception and arrest of Indonesian journalists aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0

The Indonesian Press Council and Republika condemned the Israeli military's interception of Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0 in international waters, which resulted in the detention of nine Indonesians including three journalists. The journalists—Bambang Noroyono, Thoudy Badai Rifan Billah (Republika), and Andre Prasetyo Nugroho (Tempo TV)—were part of Global Peace Convoy Indonesia and were on a mission to Gaza; the Council urged diplomatic action to secure their safety and release. The piece also notes related regulatory advocacy and industry challenges facing Indonesian media.

Pigai says Prabowo has never ordered the TNI-Polri to fill civil service posts, but ministers

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai says President Prabowo Subianto has never ordered personnel from the TNI and Polri to occupy civil service posts. He contends that security personnel’s presence in civil roles results from invitations by civil ministry officials, and he urges media scrutiny of civil officials who recruit military personnel.

Jakarta Bank manages 2.4 million student accounts, Rp1.81 trillion in deposits

Jakarta Bank announced that by April 2026 it had managed more than 2.4 million student accounts, with deposits totaling Rp1.81 trillion from Tabungan Pelajar, SimPEL and KJP Plus. The figures underline its expansion of financial inclusion and literacy through the One Account, One Student (KEJAR) Jakarta programme, backed by the provincial government and a focus on education-sector social assistance. In 2025, the bank was recognised as the best KEJAR implementer in its category among regional development banks.

Upstream oil and gas excluded from regulation on export reform: Bahlil

Indonesia's export reform would require state-owned enterprises to become sole exporters of several natural resource commodities, but upstream oil and gas will be exempt to protect domestic supply and because most sales are governed by long-term contracts before the Plan of Development. Bahlil said exports would continue under existing contracts with no expected transfer pricing or under-invoicing. The policy aims to curb fraud in exports and boost state revenues, with President Prabowo claiming a potential US$150 billion annual gain if illegal mining and export fraud are eradicated.

KPK Backs 100 Per Cent MBG, Issues Key Governance Notes to National Nutrition Agency (BGN)

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) expresses full support for the government's Makan Bergizi Gratis (MBG) programme, while flagging governance concerns to the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) as MBG's operator. It warns that the programme's large, rising budget and governance gaps require tightened oversight to ensure targets are met, transparency is maintained, and corruption risks are minimised.

Indonesia's Electric-Vehicle Penetration Claimed to Be Faster Than China's

Indonesia is said to be achieving EV market penetration faster than China, with 16 per cent of new vehicles being electric as of April, according to Gaikindo data cited by Kalista Group. The Jakarta-based firm argues that, by contrast, China would take about 12 years to reach 10 per cent; improvements in battery costs and technology, plus geopolitical pressures on fuel, are accelerating the shift. Kalista says it offers end-to-end EV solutions, including after-sales maintenance, to help businesses transition more quickly.

Israeli Military Escorts Global Sumud Flotilla Activist Ships

Israeli forces were seen on a vessel bearing the emblem of the Global Sumud Flotilla Armada near Ashdod as the Israeli Navy intercepted flotilla ships. The Global Sumud Flotilla reports that 48 ships have been stopped, around 400 people detained, and two ships continue to sail in the eastern Mediterranean. Israel's Foreign Ministry says it will not permit violations of the Gaza naval blockade.

Co-ordinating Minister AHY Urges Asia to Build Regional Resilience Amid Geopolitical Uncertainty

Co-ordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development AHY has urged Asian countries to strengthen regional resilience through sustainable development, strategic cooperation, and long-term leadership in response to rising geopolitical uncertainty. Speaking at Ecosperity Week 2026 in Singapore, he highlighted global energy-security risks and Indonesia's focus on food, energy and water security, stressing that sustainability must be embedded in daily life.

Commemorating Harkitnas, Culture Minister Urges Rekindling the Spirit of Budi Utomo

Fadli Zon, presiding as Inspector of the Ceremony, asserts that Indonesia's unity stems from its diverse cultures and urges National Awakening Day to reiterate the nation's trajectory under the Asta Cita vision of President Prabowo Subianto. The 118th Harkitnas highlighted cultural activation programmes and social policies, including MBG and Garuda/rumah schools, while the Culture Ministry celebrated three MURI records.

BI rate hikes draw foreign inflows, support rupiah

Bank Indonesia reported that yields on six-, nine-, and 12-month SRBI rose to 6.21%, 6.31% and 6.45% respectively by May 13, 2026, supporting a return of foreign portfolio inflows in the second quarter after outflows in Q1. The central bank said net capital outflows totaled US$0.8 billion in Q1, while net inflows reached US$5.5 billion as of May 18, helped by higher SRBI and government bond yields; foreign holdings accounted for about 24.0% of SRBI. BI signalled it would continue rupiah stabilization with FX interventions including offshore NDFs, DNDFs, and tighter cash foreign currency purchase rules implemented April 2026.

Minister Pigai Maximises UN Human Rights Council Diplomacy to Secure Release of 9 Indonesian Nationals Detained by Israel

Indonesian Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai says Jakarta is pursuing protection for Indonesian nationals detained by Israel through diplomacy and international mechanisms, leveraging Indonesia's role in the UN Human Rights Council. He emphasises cooperation with the Foreign Ministry and notes direct intervention is limited due to the lack of diplomatic relations with Israel.

Danantara: Exports Through PT DSI Will Not Disrupt Commodity Markets

Danantara Indonesia says the creation of PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia (PT DSI) will not disrupt Indonesia's commodity export markets. The company will oversee transactions to ensure export prices align with global market rates and prevent under-invoicing, while prices themselves remain determined by international markets. The move aims to strengthen export oversight and curb revenue leakage from export manipulation.

Russia–China gas pipeline plan revived

Putin's talks with Xi Jinping revive hopes for the Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline that would link Russia and China, highlighting energy security as a central theme amid sanctions and regional tensions. If built, the pipeline could carry up to 50 billion cubic metres of gas per year via Mongolia, underscoring China’s role as Moscow’s key energy partner.

Don't Look Down on the Poor

A religious perspective on poverty and humility emphasizes that spiritual merit is not tied to wealth. The Prophet Muhammad is quoted to stress that the poor, though humble, may be closer to God, and that neglecting the needy is condemned. The text also reflects on wealth, modesty, and the virtue of supplication.

Sandra Dewi's Luxury Handbag Collection Auctioned at BPA Fair 2026

At BPA Fair 2026, luxury handbags, many sourced from assets seized from convicted Harvey Moeis, husband of actress Sandra Dewi, are displayed for auction alongside other high-value goods. The event, organised by the Indonesian Attorney General's Office Asset Recovery Agency, highlights Hermès, Chanel, Dior and Louis Vuitton items, with detailed reserve prices and authentication checks.

Minister for Basic and Secondary Education Abdul Mu'ti Applauds Prabowo's Priority to Improve Teachers' Welfare

Abdul Mu'ti welcomed President Prabowo Subianto's pledge to prioritise teachers' welfare as part of the RAPBN 2027 macro framework, emphasising education as a national cornerstone. Prabowo highlighted that long-standing budget leakages and under-invoicing contribute to low civil servant salaries, and pledged reforms to channel funds into education and public service pay.

BI Rate Rises to 5.25 Per Cent: Four Reasons

Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo outlined four main reasons for raising the BI rate by 50 basis points to 5.25% at the May 2026 Board of Governors meeting, aimed at strengthening rupiah stabilisation amid global volatility from the Middle East. He cited external pressures and domestic factors—including dividend payments, haj and umrah pilgrimages, and foreign debt servicing—as drivers of rupiah demand, with expectations that higher rates would attract foreign inflows. A second factor noted is that global pressures could spill over into domestic price pressures.

Discord introduces end-to-end encryption to protect all calls

Discord reportedly introduces end-to-end encryption for all voice and video calls, applying automatically to interactions on the platform outside private channels and requiring no opt-in from users. The move comes as other platforms adjust their encryption policies, with Meta and TikTok taking different approaches, while Apple persists in privacy-focused messaging configurations.

Iran Sets Rp1 Trillion Bounty to Target Trump and Netanyahu

Iran's parliament is reportedly weighing a draft law to authorise a Rp1 trillion bounty on US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in retaliation for the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader. The move would empower Iran's military and security forces to act against the two leaders, amid escalating US–Iran–Israel tensions and ongoing Gulf‑mediated negotiations.

Education Minister Abdul Mu'ti Speaks Out on 200,000 Indonesian Children Exposed to Online Gambling

Education Minister Abdul Mu'ti commented on findings by the Ministry of Communications and Digital that 200,000 Indonesian children have been exposed to online gambling, including 80,000 under the age of 10. He warned that ignorance, lack of education, and weak parental supervision have left many children vulnerable, and outlined cross-ministerial actions and classroom measures. The case highlights the government's ongoing push to strengthen the education ecosystem and protect families from the growth of illegal gambling online.

Li Claudia Proposes Port Access for All Inhabited Islands - gokepri

Batam City Government and BP Batam are aligning proposed revisions to Kepri’s RTRW 2017–2037, prioritising port access on all inhabited islands to improve mobility, logistics, and FTZ oversight. The discussion, held at BP Batam, uses Musrenbang inputs to adjust spatial planning for growth, activity, and community needs. Li Claudia emphasised that the revision must reflect real conditions and consider non-resident workers and cross-regional economic activity.

Polri-Authored Book Offers New Perspective on Digital Threats

Polri’s leadership-authored book Gamification of Violence in Modern Terror in the Digital Era reframes how modern security threats emerge and evolve within digital ecosystems, arguing for early detection, digital literacy, and cross-sector collaboration as long-term prevention. The work underscores that future security depends on shared responsibility among government, families, schools, communities, digital platforms, and wider society.

Europe Quietly Draws Up Strategy If the US Exits NATO, Here Is Its Plan B

Europe is quietly drafting a Plan B if the United States withdraws from NATO, amid doubts over Washington's commitment and continued reductions of U.S. forces in Europe. The Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF), led by the United Kingdom, is highlighted as a faster, more flexible alternative, but it remains limited and not yet fully integrated with major European powers. Analysts warn that Europe must build a more autonomous defence framework, potentially with Germany playing a pivotal role.

Five kontrakan in Jatinegara, East Jakarta, on fire; no fatalities

Five kontrakan in Jatinegara, East Jakarta, were damaged with about 28 people from five households affected. Ten fire engines and 50 personnel were deployed, and firefighters used a nearby canal to help suppress the blaze; by 6:00 p.m. flames were still burning. No fatalities were reported.

Economist says DSI transparency is important to preserve business certainty

Centre of Reform on Economics economist Dipo Satria Ramli says governance and transparency are crucial as Indonesia designates a state-owned enterprise as the sole exporter of strategic natural-resource commodities. He calls for open trading mechanisms, pricing processes, and the role of DSI to ensure business certainty amid global volatility, and warns that unclear transitions could unsettle exporters and investors. He notes potential effects on exporters' profit margins and market valuations, urging a careful transition through 2026 as rules are finalised.

UPN Veteran Yogyakarta Students Picket Rectorate, Urge Thorough Investigation into Sexual Violence Case

Hundreds of students from UPN Veteran Yogyakarta staged a protest at the rectorate, demanding prompt action in a sexual violence case involving university staff. They called for accountability, transparency, and swift disciplinary measures within three days, while warning of ongoing abuse spanning several faculties.

TNI Chief of General Staff provides borehole wells aid to disaster-hit residents in Central Tapanuli

The Indonesian National Armed Forces' Chief of General Staff, General Richard Tampubolon, distributed borehole wells and food aid to residents affected by floods and landslides in Central Tapanuli, North Sumatra. Five boreholes were installed in Central Tapanuli and five in South Tapanuli, improving access to clean water for 118 households, while 105 huntara residents received staple food parcels, aiding post-disaster recovery.

The Complete Halo Infinite Trick Guide

Halo Infinite is a first‑person shooter developed by 343 Industries and published by Xbox Game Studios, released in 2021. This guide covers Grappleshot mobility, weapon spawns, grenade tactics, and map awareness to gain advantages, emphasising positioning, timing, and teamwork. Mastery of tools and map knowledge can significantly elevate skill.

Prabowo presses for lower loan interest rates for low-income groups

President Prabowo urged government banks to lower loan interest rates for low-income groups and warned that the current lending structure favours big businessmen. He called on state-owned banks under Himbara to strengthen their social commitment and urged smaller enterprises to access subsidised domestic credit sparingly, directing larger firms to seek financing in commercial or international markets. The remarks complemented a broader macroeconomic package, including a new regulation on natural resource export governance aimed at boosting fiscal revenue, with 2027 projections showing revenue and spending paths under the medium-term framework.

VinFast Begins Local Production of VF MPV 7, Adds New Features for Indonesian Consumers

VinFast has begun local production of its seven-seat VF MPV 7 at its Subang assembly facility in West Java, and has introduced a range of Indonesia-tailored feature updates. The changes focus on comfort and practicality for Indonesian families, while most core specifications remain unchanged, with feedback from IIMS 2026 driving the improvements.

Semarang City Government to explore arts and culture collaboration with Spain

The Semarang city government is pursuing a cultural collaboration with Spain, including a joint cultural programme in the first half of 2027, following a courtesy visit by the Spanish ambassador. The talks also covered tourism, the development of historic towns, environmental technology, and smart-city initiatives, with potential cruise tourism via Tanjung Mas Port. The ambassador said next year could host a joint cultural event.

The Milky Way Mystery: Why Sub-Neptune Planets Are Rare Around Low-Mass Stars?

New research published in The Astronomical Journal uses six years of NASA's TESS data to map sub-Neptune occurrences around red dwarf stars. The study finds only five sub-Neptunes among 8,134 late M dwarfs, contrasting with a surplus of super-Earths and an absent 'radius valley' for small stars. The findings have implications for planet formation theories and the search for habitable worlds around low-mass stars, though mass and atmospheric data are still required.

Prabowo to Launch 3,000 Fishing Villages by 2029

President Prabowo Subianto announced plans to establish 5,000 fishing villages over the next three years, with 1,386 to be inaugurated this year. He outlined major interventions to assist fishermen, including ice-making facilities, cold storage, and dedicated fuel stations in each village, framed as part of delivering basic needs and upholding the constitutional mandate to manage natural resources for all Indonesians.

Bank Maspion (BMAS) Posts Net Profit of Rp31.8 Billion Amid Transformation

Bank Maspion Indonesia posted a net profit after tax of Rp31.8 billion for fiscal 2025, marking a turnaround after years of transformation. The lender's loan portfolio nearly doubled to Rp17.34 trillion, with the capital adequacy ratio rising to 45.76% and non-performing loan improving to 2.26%, while BOPO also improved to 97.15%. The company cited more efficient funding and liquidity management as part of its growth strategy.

LPG Adulteration Ring in Jogja Nets Rp75 Million a Month

A police investigation into LPG cylinder adulteration in Warung Boto, Umbulharjo, Jogja, has revealed a group siphoning subsidised 3 kg cylinders into non-subsidised 5.5 kg and 12 kg cylinders, netting an estimated Rp75 million per month. Four suspects have been detained and police have confiscated vehicles, cylinders and related equipment.

US–Iran Intensify Nuclear Formula Exchange as Israel Readies for War

Negotiations between the United States and Iran have reportedly advanced to exchanging nuclear formulations, signalling tentative diplomacy. However, Israel and the United States have heightened military readiness and contemplate possible air strikes on Iran, underscoring rising regional tensions as diplomacy continues.

Kemenhaj deploys special team to find Firdaus, Indonesian Hajj pilgrim missing in Mecca since 15 May

Indonesian Hajj authorities say Muhammad Firdaus Ahlan from kloter 27 JKG disappeared from a Mecca hotel on 15 May, prompting an urgent search by PPIH and Saudi police. Ground teams are sweeping the hotel vicinity, the Haram precincts, and routes to Jeddah, with hospital checks and welfare support for his wife. Subsequent updates report three Indonesians missing during the Armina rites, as officials stress safety and ongoing efforts ahead of Armuzna.

South Korean oil tanker authorised by Iran to pass through the Hormuz Strait

A South Korean-owned oil tanker has been granted permission by Iran to traverse the Hormuz Strait, potentially marking the first such passage by a Korean-flagged vessel since the US–Iran conflict escalated. The voyage, involving around 2 million barrels of crude and more than 20 crew, is coordinated with Iranian authorities and follows consultations on maritime safety.

BPOM cracks down on illegal certain medicines worth Rp398 billion to curb abuse

BPOM has shut down illegal factories in West Java and Central Java, seizing more than one billion tablets of certain medicines and raw materials valued at Rp398 billion, in a bid to prevent abuse. The agency highlighted a rising abuse trend in Bogor and Depok, expanded public education, and will scale up training programmes to deter illicit use of medicines and regulated substances.

The dollar continues to strengthen; VinFast does not rule out a price increase

VinFast says it does not plan an immediate price raise for its electric vehicles in Indonesia despite the rupiah weakening against the US dollar, though it will consider adjustments if input costs rise. The company is monitoring currency volatility and supply-chain costs, even after establishing a production facility in Subang, West Java. Other automakers such as Chery and BYD have indicated they may increase prices if costs continue to rise.

UGM Rector Questions Notion of Abolishing Study Programs Considered Insufficiently Relevant

UGM Rector Prof. Dr. Ova Emilia argues that study programmes deemed less relevant are adapting to industry needs, social life, sustainability, and the advancement of knowledge. He notes that Theology ranks in the global top 45 in QS World University Rankings by subject, while Anthropology and Development Studies are in the top 100, underscoring the value of social sciences. He spoke during the graduation ceremony for the Bachelor and Applied Bachelor programmes for Period III, 2026 at Grha Sabha Pramana on 20 May.

Illegal Timber Harvesting in TNBT: Man in Riau Formally Declared a Suspect

Indonesia's Forestry Ministry has named a 53-year-old man, identified as W, as a suspect in illegal timber crimes inside Bukit Tigapuluh National Park (TNBT) in Riau. He allegedly transported and possessed timber without proper documents and faces up to 10 years' imprisonment and/or fines; he has been detained for 20 days as investigators pursue the case and trace the timber's origin. The case illustrates the government's ongoing crackdown on forest crime, with authorities also pursuing leads to uncover wider networks.

PLN Ends Power-Supply Constraints on Sumbawa Island

PLN states that power-supply constraints on Sumbawa Island, West Nusa Tenggara, have been alleviated following the operation of the 30 MW PLTMG Sumbawa II gas-engine power plant. Capacity has risen to around 191.91 MW with a 20% reserve margin, and the entire Tambora system is now connected from west to east; PLN plans to add a further 60 MW by 2027 to strengthen reliability.

Bule Mengajar: Yogyakarta's Effort to Increase Foreign Tourists' Length of Stay

The Yogyakarta City Tourism Office has launched the Bule Mengajar programme to boost the length of stay for foreign tourists in Yogyakarta. The initiative, requested by the city’s mayor, pairs expat teachers with Kotagede communities and local schools to share culture, language, and skills, aiming to deepen visitors’ engagement and extend their visits.

Danantara: PT DSI to Buy Commodities at Market Prices

PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia (DSI), a newly created state-owned enterprise, will procure commodities from domestic producers at market prices and supervise exports to curb under invoicing. The government says the move strengthens export oversight and price transparency, though critics warn it could centralise trade and undermine farmers' bargaining power.

Prosecutor Questions Witness Over Codes on Bribe Envelopes: Is There a Director-General of Customs?

Prosecutors at Jakarta's Corruption Court revealed coded envelopes allegedly linked to bribes in a case involving Blueray Cargo and the Directorate General of Customs. The testimony identified a code corresponding to the Director-General of Customs and stated the envelope's value at 213,600 Singapore dollars, as part of charges against three defendants for paying 61.3 billion rupiah and supplying luxury goods worth Rp 1.8 billion.

Farmers' Organisations Spotlight Government Plan for Mandatory Palm Oil Exports Via State-Owned Enterprises

Indonesian palm oil farmers’ group POPSI has criticised a government draft that would require palm oil exports to go through state‑owned enterprises, warning it could centralise trade and threaten farmer livelihoods. It calls for inclusive consultation and warns against past centralisation failures that harmed farmers and the national clove industry.

Minister emphasizes literacy to shield students from online gambling

Indonesia's Education Ministry is expanding its cross-ministry efforts to curb children's use of digital technology and online gambling. The plan includes restricting social media use for under-16s and embedding counselling on online gambling into the MPLS school orientation, backed by a four-educational-ecosystem approach involving schools, families, communities and the media. Officials say these measures are crucial to shield children from online gambling, which is described as a growing problem.

Pramono Anung Demands Tough Action Against Sellers of Free JakCard on X

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has ordered decisive action against individuals selling the free JakCard, the transport service card provided by the Jakarta Provincial Government, on X (formerly Twitter). He warned there will be no tolerance for illegal activity, especially if insiders are involved. The free JakCard is issued to 15 eligible groups and allows free use of Transjakarta, MRT Jakarta and LRT Jakarta; selling the card undermines targeted public provision and the transparency of Jakarta's transport system, with investigations underway.

Anita Tanjung Urges CT Arsa Students to Practise Surah Al-Ma'idah for Success

Anita Tanjung tells CT Arsa Foundation graduates that success comes from obeying divine commands, citing Surah Al-Ma'idah verse 35 as guidance. She also stresses hard work, continuous learning, and staying abreast of technology, noting trips to China with Chairul Tanjung to study AI and robotics. The message highlights a blend of faith, perseverance, and technological adaptability as graduates prepare for a changing job market.

Locally Assembled, VinFast Confirms VF MPV 7 Reaches 40 Per Cent Domestic Content (TKDN)

VinFast Indonesia reports that the VF MPV 7 has achieved 40 per cent domestic content in line with government targets, following CKD assembly at Subang. The company says the figure will rise as policy and the local assembly ecosystem mature, while updating features and keeping prices stable, including a battery-subscription option and an early-buyer promo.

BNN Gencarkan Operasi Saber Bersinar 2026: Jaringan Narkoba di Berbagai Wilayah ...

The Indonesian National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has stepped up Saber Bersinar 2026 operations across multiple regions, targeting both domestic and cross-border drug networks. The crackdown led to 31 arrests and seizures including 136.5 kg of methamphetamine, 147 kg of cannabis, 1,260 ml of etomidate, 1,029 g of ketamine, and 6,681 ecstasy tablets, with authorities estimating potential impact on more than 353,000 people and a cash value of around Rp211.4 billion. The operations involved collaboration with police, customs, and other agencies, highlighting government commitment to curbing narcotics distribution.

PPSU Worker Stabbed in East Jakarta After Refusing to Accept Reprimand

A PPSU worker was stabbed by a man in East Jakarta after a confrontation arising from a reprimand over footwear on a floor recently cleaned. The victim sustained injuries and received treatment at RSCM Central Jakarta; police are investigating the incident, examining the scene and interviewing witnesses as they hunt for the assailant.

Eight Dangers of Regularly Consuming Processed Foods

Processed foods are typically high in calories, sugar and fat, and often contain trans fats and high sodium, which can raise risks of obesity, hypertension, heart disease and type 2 diabetes. The article cites research linking ultra-processed foods to higher mortality among cancer survivors and notes rising obesity in Indonesia's 18-year-old cohort, while urging science-based public communication and policy measures to curb consumption.

DPR Discusses Industrial Design Bill, Golkar Emphasises Protection for MSMEs and Local Designers

The Indonesian House of Representatives' Special Committee on the Industrial Design Bill held a working meeting with the Ministers of Law and Industry to discuss the government’s explanation of the bill. Golkar urged that the update should go beyond administrative changes, ensuring easier access to protection for MSMEs, small and medium industries (SMIs), and local designers, while addressing digital-era challenges to novelty and branding. The committee seeks modern, fair regulation that strengthens Indonesia’s creative economy and provides legal certainty for innovators.

Rupiah Breaches Rp17,600, Economists Urge Strengthening of Fiscal Governance

The rupiah breached Rp17,600 per US dollar, triggering economists to call for stronger fiscal governance amid perceived structural weaknesses in Indonesia’s monetary and fiscal management. The piece highlights external pressures, import inflation, budget leakage and inefficiency in spending, and warns of possible debt growth and rating downgrades that could erode market confidence.

60 personnel extinguish fire at printing works in Cipinang Cempedak, East Jakarta

Sixty personnel from East Jakarta's Fire and Rescue Department battled a blaze at a printing house that also housed a home and business premises in Cipinang Cempedak. The fire affected a 20 by 20 metre area, five households with 28 people were rescued, with no casualties reported; cooling operations completed and losses are being tallied.

BEM UI: Reformasi Is Dead

On 20 May 2026, BEM UI staged a symbolic funeral for Reformasi at the Makara Monument on the Depok campus, declaring that Reformasi has died. The protest featured black-clad participants, a white shroud, banners such as “Reformasi Mati, Prabowo Happy” and “Adili Prabowo dan Kroninya”, and a replica grave reading “RIP Reformasi”, and criticised corruption, collusion and nepotism as well as power centralisation and certain government policies. The event is framed as a reminder that the reformist movement can continue in the face of perceived setbacks.

Regional production houses seek rules on film screenings in cinemas

Representatives of regional production houses urged Commission VII of the DPR to advance rules governing film screenings in cinemas, arguing regional films have limited exposure. They called for a government body to oversee screening schedules to curb domination by large Jakarta-based producers, and proposed a minimum access rule of 100 screens for seven days nationwide. They also pressed for more cinemas at provincial and district levels and for greater transparency from cinema operators.

Laid off since 2025, 394 ex-honorary staff of NTB Provincial Government receive Rp 3.5 million severance payment

394 former honorary staff of the Nusa Tenggara Barat provincial government have received Rp 3.5 million each as severance pay after being laid off in December 2025. The total disbursement amounts to around Rp 1.37 billion, following validation that trimmed the number of recipients from an initial 518. Some ex-honorary staff remain hopeful for re-employment opportunities or access to regional policy schemes.

One Indonesian Hajj Pilgrim Missing in Makkah as Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Forms Search Team

An Indonesian Hajj pilgrim, Muhammad Firdaus Ahlan, 72, from Jakarta's embarkation group 27, has disappeared in Makkah. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has deployed multiple search teams, including road searches and checks at hospitals, and is coordinating with his wife who is in the Holy Land.

New Details Emerge in Badung Body Buried: Victim Went to Scene to Steal

Police in Badung have revealed that DAD, 25, the intended victim of a planned killing, travelled to the scene with intent to steal a compressor engine from a motor wash. The plan was hatched days earlier but was turned into a fatal trap when co-accused allegedly lured him and killed him; the body was buried in a sack in a paddy field and the suspects fled to East Java.

Whip Pink Case: Bareskrim to Question Influencer ZNM and Loyal Consumers

Indonesian police have intensified their probe into the illegal nitrous oxide gas 'Whip Pink' after an influencer identified as ZNM was named as a witness. The Narcotics Crime Directorate is also questioning other consumers amid reports of unusually large purchases. Investigations have located a production plant in Jakarta run by PT SSS without BPOM authorisation and are tracing storage warehouses across 16 sites in 10 major cities as part of a wider distribution network.

Home Affairs Ministry warns Bandar Lampung City Government not to fall into a mental block in innovating

The head of the Domestic Policy Strategy Agency at the Ministry of Home Affairs urged Bandar Lampung to avoid mental blocks that hinder regional innovation, emphasising that innovation can be simple and non-digital while still delivering real public-service improvements. He cited the 2025 IID showing many innovations are non-digital and urged collaboration with universities, businesses and communities, while noting legal protections for civil servants trying new ideas under Article 389 of Law No. 23/2014. The Ministry also highlighted the role of innovation clinics and replication as key to spreading effective practices across districts.

Pigai Claims He Has Never Been Reprimanded by Prabowo Since Becoming Minister of Law and Human Rights

Natalius Pigai, Indonesia's Minister of Law and Human Rights, asserts he has never been reprimanded by President Prabowo Subianto since taking office in October 2024. Speaking at a HAM Journalists Class event in Bandung, he argues his public statements on human rights reflect the President's support, citing the pig's head incident outside Tempo's offices as an example of his unchallenged stance.

API: Embarkasi Haji YIA layani 26 penerbangan bagi 9.320 calon haji

Kulon Progo (ANTARA) - Angkasa Pura Indonesia Bandara Internasional Yogyakarta di Kulon Progo, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta menyatakan Embarkasi Haji YIA melayani 26 penerbangan yang membawa 9.320 calon haji ke Tanah Suci pada Musim Haji 2026. “Pelayanan penerbangan mulai 21 April 2026 sampai 21 Mei 2026.

Discovery of the Rusty Lark, the Rare Bird Missing for 94 Years

Scientists in central Chad have captured the first confirmed living sighting of the Rusty Lark (Calendulauda rufa) after 94 years, ending decades of silence about the species' survival. The bird was photographed during a United Nations-backed wetland project and later verified by international ornithologists using 1931 museum specimens. The discovery prompts a reevaluation of the species' status and highlights the importance of conservation in remote Sahel habitats.

Prabowo Aims to Build a National Car and Mobile-Phone Project, Industry Minister Reveals Indonesia Has This Resource

Indonesia’s industry minister welcomed President Prabowo Subianto’s push for rapid industrialisation based on natural resources, including plans to manufacture a national car and domestic technology devices. The government emphasises downstream processing and value-added manufacturing, with potential advantages in batteries and nickel resources, and plans to finance projects via the Danantara Investment Management Agency and consulting experts for strategy.

Residents recount fire in Jatinegara, East Jakarta, starting at a printing shop

Residents say a house fire in Jalan Cipinang Cempedak Raya, Jatinegara, East Jakarta, started at a printing shop and spread to nearby houses. No fatalities were reported, but five homes were damaged; around five fire engines and two ambulances were deployed, and the blaze was extinguished by about 18:50 WIB.

Get Ready to Become a Billionaire! BAGI HOKI 2026 Period 1 Draw to be Held Soon

Bank Artha Graha International (BAGI) has launched BAGI HOKI 2026, a savings incentive offering a Rp1 billion main prize and 2,400 other prizes. The Period 1 draw is scheduled for 21 May 2026 in Jakarta, with 600 winners announced, and a second draw in August will offer further opportunities; taxes for winners are covered by the bank. New and existing customers can earn draw coupons through opening a new account with a Rp500,000 initial deposit or by increasing their average monthly balance, subject to balance maintenance.

Ministry of Law and Human Rights: Protection for Indonesian Citizens in Israel Pursued Through Diplomacy

Indonesia's Ministry of Law and Human Rights says protection for Indonesian citizens, including journalists detained in Israel, is pursued through diplomatic channels and international mechanisms, with the Foreign Ministry taking the lead. It notes that Jakarta cannot directly enter Israel due to the lack of diplomatic ties and is also leveraging Indonesia's position on the UN Human Rights Council to bolster protection, including for nine abducted Indonesians, among them three journalists on assignment.

Prabowo References Deep State in DPR Speech

President Prabowo Subianto criticised the so-called deep state during a plenary session of Indonesia's House of Representatives, warning that some bureaucrats obstruct government work. He urged ministers to discipline the bureaucracy and cited examples of late-day signature requests and overly technical rules that complicate doing business. The remarks accompany his presentation of the macroeconomic framework and fiscal policy to Parliament.

The Prohibition on Imitating the Opposite Sex

Islamic teaching prohibits men and women from imitating the opposite sex, with cited hadiths and Qur’anic verses. The piece explains that clothing, gait, and speech should reflect gender as created by Allah, and that altering God’s creation is forbidden; scholars deem such imitation a major sin with severe consequences in Islamic teaching.

Indonesia–Mozambique Business Forum Drives Trade and Investment Opportunities in Africa

More than 70 Mozambican businesspeople and 30 Indonesian exporters attended a hybrid Business Luncheon in Maputo to discuss Indonesia–Mozambique trade relations and the potential of the PTA to boost bilateral commerce. Officials highlighted the PTA as a strategic bridge to East and Southern Africa and to Southeast Asia, with plans to raise awareness, use FACIM as a showcase for Indonesian products, and involve Mozambican firms in Trade Expo Indonesia.

Sudin Nakertransgi Admits No Vacancies for Visually Impaired at Jakarta Job Fair

North Jakarta’s Office of Manpower, Transmigration and Energy says there were no vacancies for visually impaired jobseekers at the Jakarta Job Fair 2026, and such applicants will be referred to the provincial Disability Service Unit for future opportunities. Officials stressed that vacancies cannot be promised on the spot.

Foreign Minister Sugiono: Indonesia Directly Negotiating with Pirates Who Hijacked a Vessel Carrying Indonesian Nationals in Somali Waters

Indonesia has launched a robust diplomatic effort to secure the release of four Indonesian nationals seized when a vessel was hijacked in Somali waters, with Foreign Minister Sugiono stating that Jakarta has engaged directly with the pirates and mobilised diplomatic networks around the conflict area. The four Indonesian crew members are reported to be safe, and the government is coordinating with international partners to ensure their welfare and prevent future incidents.

HNSI Welcomes Prabowo's Plan to Build Support Facilities for Fishermen

President Prabowo Subianto pledged to strengthen fishermen's welfare through the development of maritime and fisheries infrastructure, including ice plants, cold storage, fish processing units, and vessel docking facilities, announced at the 19th DPR plenary session in Jakarta on 20 May 2026. The Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih programme is also being rolled out across Indonesia to bolster coastal economies. HNSI Secretary General Lydia Assegaf said the proposed infrastructure addresses long-standing needs and the association backs the programme, with representatives attending the plenary to show fishermen's involvement.

Putri Zulkifli Hasan: Governance of Natural Resources Must Deliver Tangible Benefits for the People

Putri Zulkifli Hasan, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Commission XII, voiced support for President Prabowo Subianto's macroeconomic framework and fiscal policy guidance for the 2027 RAPBN, emphasising that governance of natural resources must deliver real benefits to Indonesians, including export governance, downstream processing, and domestic industrial strengthening; she also welcomed renewable energy commitments and highlighted job creation.

KAI Daop 7 Madiun Teams Up with Millennials to Educate on Rail Safety

PT Kereta Api Indonesia's Daerah Operasi 7 Madiun in East Java has partnered with millennials to educate the public about safety at railway level crossings. The collaboration coincides with the 118th National Awakening Day in 2026 and underscores a shared responsibility among KAI, the government, and society to promote rail crossing safety, citing relevant Indonesian laws. The programme aims to raise awareness and promote disciplined behaviour among road users.

Head of CT Arsa Foundation's Premier High School Reveals Keys to Students' Admission to State Universities

The CT Arsa Foundation's Premier High School reports a 100% graduation rate for the 14th intake of 91 students, with many already admitted to state universities through multiple routes (SPMB, SPAN-PTKIN, LPP Yogya). The overall admission rate across majors reached 105.49%, attributed to some students securing offers from more than one university; several are pursuing overseas study. School leadership attributes success to a four-pillar approach and ongoing teacher training.

Indonesia taps local wisdom for forest emissions goals

Indonesia's Forestry Ministry is leaning on indigenous knowledge and community action to advance its forest-emissions targets, pairing policy with local initiatives such as agroforestry projects and a documentary highlighting grassroots stewardship. The programme, supported by Norway, links conservation with local economic development and strategic engagement of indigenous groups and youth to bolster climate resilience, including El Niño risks. Officials and activists stress that protecting forests, peatlands and mangroves requires inclusive, collective effort beyond formal government programmes.

Andalan Artha Primanusa targets Rp949.6 billion revenue in 2026

Andalan Artha Primanusa expects revenue to grow at a 28 per cent compound annual growth rate, reaching Rp949.6 billion in 2026, with further increases to Rp1.41 trillion in 2027 and Rp1.55 trillion in 2028. The company also projects EBITDA to rise by 21 per cent to Rp514.2 billion in 2028 and net profit by 31 per cent to Rp223.9 billion, supported by strategic partnerships, disciplined contract selection, and fleet investments as it expands in the nickel sector after securing a Letter of Award for a Halmahera Timur project.

ESDM Says Nickel Exports Not Yet Required to Go Through a Special State-Owned Enterprise

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources says nickel exports are not yet mandated to pass through a dedicated state-owned export company, with the one-door policy currently limited to three commodities: crude palm oil (CPO), coal, and ferroalloys. Officials say the list is still being finalised and there is no mandate for nickel; President Prabowo has proposed a Special Export BUMN to tighten revenue collection, with PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia named as the vehicle.

BMKG Warns of Extreme Weather in Batam as Fishermen Stay Ashore

BMKG’s forecast for Batam and parts of the Riau Islands predicting light to moderate rain with lightning has prompted traditional fishermen to shorten trips or stay near the coast. The updates emphasize safety and the vulnerability of small vessels to sudden storms, with authorities urging vigilance and adherence to weather advisories.

VinFast Luncurkan VF MPV 7 Rakitan Indonesia, Ramaikan Pasar MPV Listrik untuk Keluarga

VinFast has launched the seven-seat VF MPV 7 in Jakarta, marking the start of local production in Indonesia. The model targets family mobility with a battery-subscription option and an on-the-road price; production is local at Subang, signalling VinFast's commitment to Indonesia's EV ecosystem.

Nublek Coffee Tradition Signals Start of Temanggung’s 2026 Coffee Harvest

Hundreds of residents in Gunung Gempol village, Temanggung Regency, Central Java, gathered for the nublek kopi (wiwit kopi) tradition marking the start of the 2026 coffee harvest. The event featured traditional foods, village dances, and a communal prayer, emphasising gratitude for fertile land and a hopeful, abundant harvest, while reinforcing social bonds and cultural heritage.

Foreign Investment in Bank Indonesia Securities Surges to Rp 221.6 Trillion - Jakarta Globe

Foreign investor holdings in Bank Indonesia Rupiah Securities (SRBI) rose to Rp 221.59 trillion as of May 18, nearly doubling from year-end 2025, with total SRBI including domestic holdings reaching Rp 921.9 trillion. BI Governor Perry Warjiyo said higher SRBI yields and a strengthened monetary framework are aimed at stabilising the rupiah and attracting continued foreign inflows, even as the currency remains around 2% weaker versus end-April. BI also continued government bond purchases in the secondary market as part of its policy mix.

Baznas and UNFPA discuss cooperation to prevent social risks in pesantren environments

Baznas RI and UNFPA discussed opportunities for collaboration to prevent social risks in madrasahs and pesantrens, aiming to protect youths and promote reproductive health education aligned with religious values and Indonesian culture, while supporting reductions in maternal and infant mortality in disadvantaged communities. The initiative would channel zakat funds to ensure vulnerable groups gain access to adequate health protection during childbirth, with a forthcoming MoU to formalise the collaboration.

PTP Nonpetikemas Branch, Banten, Drives Port Productivity and Strengthens Terminalisation

PTP Nonpetikemas' Banten branch reports rising productivity in non-containerised cargo handling and the terminalisation of dry bulk and liquid bulk terminals at Ciwandan Port. With enhanced facilities, equipment and digitalised operations, the port aims to bolster national logistics efficiency and support regional industry, while Pelindo Regional 2 Banten emphasises terminalisation as a strategic move to deliver focused, integrated port services.

Competency test for recruitment of Merah Putih Cooperative managers begins; 483,648 participants pass administrative screening

The Indonesian government has begun the competency testing stage for the recruitment of Merah Putih Village/Urban Cooperative Managers (KDKMP) and Merah Putih Fishermen Village (KNMP). A total of 483,648 applicants passed the administrative screening and will proceed to the competency assessments, with final results due on 7 June 2026. The tests took place at Patriot Candrabhaga Stadium in Bekasi, West Java.

PDIP Applauds President Prabowo's Praise: Opposition as a Check and Balance

PDIP has welcomed President Prabowo Subianto's compliments in a DPR plenary session, reiterating its decision to stay outside the government to fulfil its role as a check and balance. The party's leadership stressed that opposition critique is rational and aimed at preserving democracy, while Prabowo acknowledged the opposition's crucial oversight role and thanked PDIP for its stance. The exchange signals political stability as democratic norms are maintained.

Ryzen AI 400 Arrives in Indonesia, AMD Promises Real AI Laptop Experience

AMD has launched the Ryzen AI 400 Series in Indonesia after its CES debut, targeting ultrathin laptops with on-device AI. The line integrates Zen 5 cores with an AMD XDNA 2 NPU up to 60 TOPS and a Radeon 800M GPU, and is framed around partnerships with Microsoft and Copilot to deliver real AI experiences, including claims of higher frame rates and time savings in research and content creation.

Establishment of DSI to have positive impact on stock exchange: govt

The Indonesian government argues that the DSI will enhance transparency in export transactions and ensure profits from commodity exports are more fairly reflected in domestic shareholders, potentially boosting profitability for companies listed on the stock exchange. Officials suggest profits for these companies could double as overseas gains are captured more equitably; the DSI is seen as a positive momentum for capital market investors. The initial phase (June–December 2026) requires reporting of export transactions to DSI, with a digital platform to be introduced from January 2027 to strengthen oversight, while allowing a transition period; the objective is to increase national added value and welfare through transparent trade.

Gas Odour All Day Triggers Police Raid on LPG Subsidy Fraud in Jogja

Residents alerted the police after a persistent gas odour from a rented house in Warung Boto, Umbulharjo, Yogyakarta led to a raid uncovering four suspects involved in the illicit repackaging of subsidised 3 kg LPG cylinders into non-subsidised larger cylinders. The operation, which began in late April 2026, yielded a large quantity of LPG cylinders and equipment; the suspects face up to six years’ imprisonment and a substantial fine under Indonesian law.

Bahlil Orders Oil and Gas Firms to Immediately Grant Participating Interests to Regional Governments

Indonesia's energy minister has ordered all Cooperation Contract Contractors (KKKS) to transfer 10% Participating Interest to regional governments, aligning with presidential directives. The move aims to deepen regional participation in upstream oil and gas, with strict oversight to ensure regulatory compliance and to involve professional local entrepreneurs in the supply chain.

Two-year-old girl in Deli Serdang suffers a congenital heart defect, needs a helping hand

In North Sumatra, Arisha Zainabba Nasution, a two-year-old girl from Deli Serdang, has a large ventricular septal defect with mild-to-moderate pulmonary hypertension, requiring surgery. Financial constraints and living costs mean her family seeks support to cover non-BPJS expenses for three months of treatment in Jakarta, including accommodation, nutrition, and oxygen supplies.

Law Enforcement: Indonesian Judicial Commission Chief Urges Graduates to Uphold Integrity and Ethics

At the IBLAM School of Law's 32nd graduation, the Indonesian Judicial Commission chair urged graduates to uphold integrity and ethics, emphasising that a fair judiciary rests on moral responsibility as well as rules. The ceremony saw a MoU with the KY to strengthen judges’ integrity and reinforce Tri Dharma, while 340 graduates were conferred. The event highlighted the institution's theme 'Uphold Justice, Realise Exemplary Conduct' and featured speeches from senior academics and administrators.

Indonesia's Partner Countries Granted Relaxation of DHE SDA Rules

Indonesia's government has announced a relaxation of foreign exchange rules on the proceeds from natural resource exports (DHE SDA) for exporters from partner countries that have bilateral agreements with Indonesia. The policy, part of Government Regulation No. 21 of 2026, is pitched as strengthening development financing, supporting resource downstreaming, attracting investment, and maintaining domestic financial stability, with different placements rules for non-migas and migas exporters and incentives for compliance.

Difficult Access to Capital, SME Growth Still Hampered

Indonesian UMKM continue to face structural barriers, including restricted capital, rising living costs and unstable incomes, hindering both household and business finances. CELIOS identifies financing as the biggest challenge, with fintech and P2P lending offering quicker relief if directed to productive use and properly governed. The issue is especially acute for women-owned UMKM, underscoring the need to advance financial health and cross‑sector collaboration to deliver real inclusive growth.

Pigai: Government Uses Diplomatic Channels and the UN to Protect Indonesian Citizens Detained by Israel

Indonesia is pursuing protection for its activists and journalists abducted by Israeli forces during a humanitarian mission near Cyprus, through diplomatic channels and UN mechanisms due to the lack of diplomatic ties with Israel; coordination with the Foreign Ministry is central, and Indonesia notes its current presidency of the UN Human Rights Council in this effort.

Lahat Police Sat Binmas Attends Award Certificates Presentation for FKPM and BKPM Competition by South Sumatra Regional Police

The Sat Binmas of Lahat Police attended the award certificates presentation for the FKPM and BKPM competition, presented by the South Sumatra Regional Police. The event recognised the Pasar Lama FKPM and BKPM team’s achievement as First Place in the regional contest, signalling strong police–community collaboration in Lahat. Police officials emphasised continuing partnerships to maintain public order and security in the jurisdiction of Polres Lahat.

DPRD to oversee 3,600 Merah Putih Cooperatives in West Java

The West Java Provincial DPRD, represented by Gerindra legislator Tina Wiryawati, will supervise the formation of 3,600 Merah Putih Village/Urban Cooperatives (KDKMP) to ensure they deliver tangible benefits to communities. The initiative, part of President Prabowo Subianto's Merah Putih Cooperative program, aims to strengthen grassroots economies, shorten distribution chains for staples, and improve access to goods, with a target completion by July 2026. If well-managed, the cooperatives could spur local economic activity and enhance food security.

Best Redmi phones priced at Rp2 million in 2026: flagship features increasingly affordable

Mid-2026 sees Redmi pushing flagship-like features into smartphones priced around Rp2 million, with LTPO displays, OIS, and IP68 ratings becoming more common. The article highlights three reasons to choose Redmi in the Rp2 million segment and notes ongoing price checks at official outlets for the latest promotions.

PP Tunas Becomes the Foundation of Indonesia's Child Protection in the Digital Era

Indonesia’s Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 on the Governance of Electronic System Management in Child Protection (PP Tunas) seeks to create a safe and healthy online environment for children. Officials emphasise cross-sector collaboration among government, families, schools, communities and platforms to ensure enforcement, education, and digital literacy, alongside regulatory measures for platform accountability. The programme forms part of a broader drive toward a digitally secure generation in Indonesia’s path to 2045.

Pramono Urges Action Against Sellers of Free-Transit Jakcards

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has called for stringent action against individuals selling Jakcards or free-transit cards issued by the Jakarta Provincial Government on X. He emphasised that the transport governance system must be transparent, including the ownership of the free-service cards, and highlighted concerns around an online account allegedly marketing the cards under Pergub 33/2025.

Volvo EX90 Launches, Targeting Family and Corporate Markets

Volvo Cars Indonesia has launched the Volvo EX90, a large premium electric SUV with three-row seating for seven, differentiating it from most premium EV SUVs. The company says the flexible seating makes it suitable for executives and corporate fleets, and expects to attract high-spending Indonesian buyers including families. The launch took place in Jakarta on 19 May 2026.

Pigai reiterates the press as a strategic partner in human rights development

Indonesia's Minister of Human Rights Natalius Pigai characterises the press as a strategic government partner in human rights development and a pillar of democracy, emphasising independence amid industry pressure and digital change. The Ministry will deepen media ties via dialogues with national media leaders and human rights-based journalism training to boost public participation in rights protection, while stressing non-interference and mutual cooperation. Pigai also warns against state press suppression and highlights journalists as a vulnerable group facing diverse pressures, urging government protection of press freedom and a healthy media ecosystem.

West Java Education Office Sets Requirements for Maung School 2026 Admissions

West Java's education department has announced strict admission rules for Maung School 2026, scrapping zonal intake and allocating places across three competency streams: 10% for academic potential, 70% for academic competence, and 20% for non-academic skills. Applicants must meet age and education prerequisites, provide evidence such as the Academic Ability Test results, certificates, and a domicile and school recommendation. Registration runs from 18–22 May 2026 for account submission, with online applications open 25–29 May; results are announced on 8 June and re-registration on 9–10 June; unsuccessful applicants can re-apply via regular schools in the SPMB process.

The 10th China-Russia Expo held in Harbin, northeast China

The 10th China-Russia Expo in Harbin attracted over 1,500 companies from 46 countries and regions, with a total exhibition area of 55,000 square metres and about 100 ancillary events spanning industry matchmaking, investment promotion, international cooperation, tourism, and consumption. The event underscores ongoing cross-border economic and trade engagement between China and Russia and wider international participation.

Prabowo Aims to Reduce Poverty to Between 6.0 and 6.5 Percent by 2027

President Prabowo Subianto has set a target to reduce Indonesia's poverty rate to between 6.0% and 6.5% by 2027, down from the 2026 target of 6.5–7.5%. He warned that continued growth has not translated into improved welfare for the poor, citing a shrinking middle class and rising poverty, and questioned Indonesia's low expenditure-to-GDP ratio relative to G20 peers and ASEAN neighbours. The government aims to narrow the inequality gap and ensure growth benefits are broadly shared.

Bridge Collapse Incident in Jambi, Two Workers Missing

Two unidentified workers were reported missing after a section of a dock bridge collapsed into the river in Sungai Landak, Jambi. Rescue teams including Basarnas and security forces are searching the Limau River for the men, who were welding the bridge section when it gave way around 11:15 local time.

Mester Market Traders Struggle, Their Fate Since the Pandemic

Market stallholders at Pasar Jatinegara, known as Pasar Mester, report a sluggish trading environment as prices rise. Traders say the downturn began during the COVID-19 pandemic and has worsened over the past year, squeezing households and reducing purchases of everyday items such as batik clothing, bottles, and plastics.

Foreign investors post Rp131 billion net selling; BBCA, BBRI and AMMN shares among the targets

Foreign investors posted a net selling of Rp131 billion on the Indonesia Stock Exchange on 20 April 2026, led by BBCA with Rp376 billion. Other large outlets included BBRI, TPIA, AMMN and DSSA. Domestic buyers offset some pressure, while the IHSG remained volatile, closing in the red after trading from a high of 6,459.556 to a low of 6,215.562, with robust turnover.

Fishermen in Jenebora, PPU, East Kalimantan complain about increased vessel berthing and suspected sea pollution

Fishermen in Jenebora report rising berthing activity by ships around their traditional fishing grounds and allegations of marine pollution in the Jenebora waters and Balikpapan Bay. The local government convened a multi-agency meeting to discuss oversight and potential impacts on coastal livelihoods, with no official conclusion yet.

KNPI Central Executive Board Chairman Urges Youth to Be the Bond of Unity on National Awakening Day

KNPI chairman Ali Hanafiah urged Indonesian youths to use National Awakening Day on 20 May to strengthen nationalism and unity, stressing that the youth must be the glue in the face of global challenges. He said KNPI would support government programmes under President Prabowo Subianto and contribute to Indonesia's 2045 vision, including village development and community empowerment, while emphasising tangible contributions and unity. The remarks also highlight the government's digital child-protection focus and the historic symbolism of Boedi Oetomo's 1908 founding.

IAEI Inaugurates 13 New Komisariats in the Jabodetabek Area, Ready to Strengthen the Islamic Economy

IAEI inaugurated 13 new komisariats for the 2026–2031 period during a National Seminar at Al-Quddus Auditorium, YARSI University, Jakarta. The move aims to revitalise the organisation and energise the Islamic economy ecosystem across Jakarta and surrounding regions, with PTIQ Jakarta hosting the largest komisariat at 48 members.

ASEAN digital pact could lift Indonesia's economy to US$600B: Airlangga

Airlangga Hartarto said the ASEAN DEFA pact could push Indonesia's growth potential to US$600 billion when signed this year, citing a semiconductor training program in Jakarta. The DEFA aims to deepen digital integration, including digital trade, cross-border connectivity, data governance and tech-ecosystem development across Southeast Asia, while Indonesia's digital economy is projected to reach US$400 billion by 2030. The government is expanding the domestic semiconductor ecosystem through talent development and partnerships, notably the Danantara-Arm initiative, with a target of 15,000 semiconductor engineers over three years.

Prosecutor Reveals Codes in Envelopes in Alleged Bribe Allocations at Customs

During a Jakarta Corruption Court hearing, prosecutors displayed envelopes with coded markings and linked them to recipients of bribes in a case involving BlueRay Cargo. They identified several codes—SIS, SS, and OC—and tied them to individuals including Sisprian Subiaksono and Ocoy, with the money paid in Singapore dollars. The case alleges the trio paid 61.3 billion rupiahs in SGD, plus facilities and luxury goods valued at around Rp 1.8 billion.

Gen Z Job Seekers at Jakarta Job Fair Face Background Mismatch and Degree Dilemmas

Gen Z graduates in Jakarta report difficulty finding roles aligned with their studies at the Jakarta Job Fair, where vacancies skew towards sales and marketing. Civil Engineering graduate Iki and SMK graduate Nabil Anis Sofar call for more roles matching higher education and vocational training, and stress the importance of networking for early career opportunities.

Waive VAT on airline tickets and pursue premium tourism: Indonesia's plan to boost tourism

The Indonesian government will fully cover VAT on domestic economy-class airline tickets for 60 days (25 April–23 June 2026) to curb rising prices triggered by higher global aviation fuel costs. It will also offer discounts or exemptions on aircraft parts costs to help airlines manage costs. Officials say premium travellers—high-spending visitors seeking exclusive experiences—remain a strategic focus for tourism growth amid global uncertainty.

PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia Aims to Eliminate 'Mispricing' Practices to Zero

Indonesia's government has created PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia to curb mispricing in the export of its natural-resource commodities. In the first three months, authorities will map export patterns, governance and transactions to inform policy, with export sales to be channelled through a government-designated state‑owned exporter starting with three strategic commodities: palm oil, coal, and ferro‑alloys. President Prabowo Subianto says this could save up to USD 150 billion a year from leakage, asserting that wealth should return to the people and that the policy will be implemented within the law with industry consultation.

Rizal Sukma: Hasanuddin University Has the Potential to Strengthen Indonesia Globally

Former Indonesian ambassador to the United Kingdom and Ireland, Rizal Sukma, said Hasanuddin University could play a broader role in strengthening East Indonesia’s perspective in national and global discourse. He emphasized universities as hubs of ideas, policy innovation, and national solutions, and noted Unhas’ capacity and resources to participate in strategic conversations. The meeting with Unhas Rector Prof. Jamaluddin Jompa in Makassar also highlighted future collaboration, with Unhas and CSIS exploring cooperation in strategic studies, academic diplomacy, human resource development, and broader contributions to global issues.

Israel and the US Back Mahmoud Ahmadinejad as Iran's New Leader?

An NYT report alleges Israel and the United States plotted a secret regime change in Iran, envisaging Mahmoud Ahmadinejad returning to power. The plan reportedly included an attack on his Tehran residence to break IRGC containment, with US backing, but an operation in February wounded Ahmadinejad and derailed the plan. The White House has since signalled a shift to diplomacy while Washington pursues a permanent agreement to curb Iran's nuclear programme.

The Impact of Digital Fraud: From Financial Losses to Mental Toll

A VIDA whitepaper warns that digital fraud is becoming increasingly organised, blending multiple attack methods. VIDA launches Faces of Fraud to humanise victims and educate the public, highlighting that fraud inflicts financial, emotional, and security-related costs. The project cites Rp9 trillion in losses and over 411,000 reports from 2024–2025, urging collective action to build a safer digital ecosystem.

Indonesian DPR Hajj Oversight Team Uncovers Wheelchair Service Extortion at Masjid al-Haram Involving Seasonal Staff

Indonesia's DPR Hajj Oversight Team has uncovered alleged extortion by wheelchair service providers at Masjid al-Haram, involving seasonal workers recruited for Hajj operations. The team is examining recruitment and potential collusion with KBIHU, and plans to raise the issue to the Amirul Hajj and relevant ministries.

Customs Task Force Uncovers Illegal Excise Stamp Network in Semarang and Jepara

Indonesia's Customs Task Force announced the seizure of an illegal excise stamp printing network operating in Jepara Regency and Semarang City, detaining 19 people and seizing stamping equipment, printing materials, 74 bundles of suspected fake stamps, and 22 rolls of hologram stickers, with potential state losses estimated at around Rp570 billion. The operation, supported by the Directorate of Enforcement and Investigation of the Jateng-DIY Regional Office, Kudus Customs, and BAIS TNI, highlights ongoing crackdowns on counterfeit excise stamps.

PDIP Politician Responds to Prabowo: The Criticism Is Well-Intentioned

Andreas Hugo Pareira, chair of DPR Commission VIII from PDIP, responded to President Prabowo's remarks, saying PDIP should stay outside government to act as a balancing force and offer critique. He argued that external input is needed to improve government performance and that PDIP's criticisms are well-intentioned. Prabowo acknowledged the criticisms and called for continued oversight and cross-party cooperation, emphasising checks and balances in democracy.

Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah directly checks the suitability of accommodation for prospective Hajj pilgrims in Mecca

The Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak conducted an unscheduled inspection in Mecca to assess the suitability of accommodation for Indonesian Hajj pilgrims, including independent pilgrims not affiliated with KBIHU. Accompanied by transport experts, the visit focused on facilities at the Al-Hidayah Tower in Aziziyah and underscored equal treatment for all pilgrims, regardless of group affiliation.

Railways Move 752,852 Tonnes of Cement as Construction Distribution Runs More Smoothly

KAI recorded cement and clinker transport totaling 752,852 tonnes from January to April 2026, underscoring ongoing construction activity across housing, industrial zones and infrastructure. In April alone, volumes reached 185,258 tonnes, with February and January showing stronger numbers. The rail-based logistics approach is highlighted as crucial to maintaining the national construction supply chain and easing road congestion, while KAI Logistics expands its cargo portfolio to include BBM and coal.

BTN provides Rp2.97 trillion in housing programme financing as of 18 May

BTN reported Rp2.97 trillion in Housing Program Credit (KPP) disbursed up to 18 May 2026, of which Rp1.98 trillion was on the supply side and Rp987 billion on the demand side. The bank said it is accelerating disbursement and strengthening links between developers and consumers through mass signing/closing events across regions, with West Java and the Jawa-Bali-Nusa Tenggara (Jabanusa) region among the largest contributors.

Russia and China warn of the impact of the US Golden Dome project

Russia and China issued a joint statement during talks in Beijing warning that the United States' Golden Dome project threatens global strategic stability by enabling a comprehensive, layered missile defence system. They urged Washington to act in good faith to strengthen global stability. They also lamented that, following the end of New START, US policies have hindered efforts to preserve the treaty's legacy.

Danantara says DSI will become buyer of strategic commodities in Stage II

Danantara's Danantara Investment Management Agency says PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia (DSI) will act as a buyer of strategic commodities in Stage II of the export governance framework, due to begin in January 2027. The move shifts DSI from intermediary to direct purchaser, buying from domestic exporters and selling to international markets, with aims to curb underinvoicing and ensure proceeds are returned to Indonesia.

Vice President Gibran Highlights the Importance of Green Diplomacy in National Development

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka emphasised strengthening green diplomacy as part of sustainable national development and preparation for Indonesia Emas 2045, in a meeting with the Green Diplomacy Network at the Vice Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Wednesday, 20 May. The discussions focused on youth involvement in the sustainability agenda, capacity-building in green diplomacy, and collaboration with the government on renewable energy and food self-sufficiency.

Meeting with DPR's Legislation Body, Private-Sector Teachers Promised a Law Regulating Minimum Salary Standards

Private-sector teachers' associations meet with the DPR's Baleg to press for a new law that would set a minimum salary standard and welfare protections for private-school teachers, arguing that the state must not marginalise educators in foundations and should provide equal status to PPPK-eligible staff.

Dedicated SPKLU Infrastructure Becomes Key as Kalista Explains Why EV Logistics Transition Is Growing More Viable

Kalista Group says the transition to electric-vehicle logistics is becoming increasingly realistic, aided by expanding SPKLU charging infrastructure and improving total cost of ownership. The firm cites last-mile and middle-mile segments as the fastest adopters and reports substantial operating cost savings and meaningful emission reductions on routes such as Tangerang–Bandung.

OK Bank (DNAR) Accelerates Lending Amid Uncertain Global Economy

OK Bank (DNAR) outlines strategies to bolster asset quality, profitability, and funding structure, while pursuing selective retail and corporate lending and a digitalisation push to drive efficiency and customer convenience. The bank will also participate as a sub-distributor of the government's retail Government Securities (SBN) to broaden investment options for customers and support the depth of the national financial market.

Head of BSKDN urges regional governments not to hesitate to innovate, even if simple

Yusharto Huntoyungo, head of the National Domestic Policy Strategy Agency (BSKDN) at the Ministry of Home Affairs, urges Indonesian regional governments to innovate without hesitation, stressing that even simple innovations can improve public services. He argues that the measure of novelty should be the benefits to recipients, not the sophistication of the idea, and notes most innovations reported by local governments are non-digital.

Barito River Upper Reaches Enters Danger Level as Tidal Flooding Ravages Banjarmasin

Intense rainfall in Kalimantan's upstream areas has driven a sharp rise in water levels on major rivers, with the Barito River reaching danger levels in its upper reaches. Flooding and tidal surges threaten communities in Banjarmasin and surrounding areas, raising concerns for agriculture and food security.

State-Owned Health Company Strengthens Halal Ecosystem to Bolster Public Confidence

Bio Farma, as part of the Danantara ecosystem, is strengthening its governance, innovation, and contributions to national health resilience while embedding halal principles to boost public trust. The company recently received a Silver Award for Research & Community Services at the Indonesia Halal Ecosystem Summit & UB Halal Metric Awards 2026, highlighting its role in developing Indonesia's halal ecosystem and life science sector.

Barcelona signs strategic partnership with Emirates Islamic to bolster club finances

Barça has struck a strategic sponsorship with Emirates Islamic to bolster its long-term finances, appointing the UAE-based bank as its Official Corporate Banking Partner for the UAE. The co-branded Emirates Islamic Barça Cashback Card will offer UAE fans exclusive perks, including merchandise, prize draws, and easier access to match tickets at Spotify Camp Nou. The deal reflects Barcelona's push to grow revenues beyond matchdays and aligns with broader LaLiga financial progress ahead of the next transfer window.

Utah Potash Mining Phenomenon: Blue Candy-Coloured Ponds Resembling Space Imagery

Astronauts captured electric-blue evaporation ponds at a Utah potash mine near Moab, created by solar evaporation and blue dye. The piece explains the technology, the importance of potash as a fertiliser, and the environmental impacts, including noise pollution and habitat disruption, while noting the Colorado River’s ecological role.

VinFast awaits investigation findings into Bekasi train accident

VinFast Indonesia says it is awaiting the outcome of investigations by authorities into a train accident in Bekasi involving the Green SM taxi, which left several people dead and dozens injured. The company stresses its full cooperation with investigators, providing data as required, and notes that Green SM is a separate taxi operator that purchased VinFast vehicles; its role is as a customer.

Economist: 50 basis-point BI Rate rise timely, anchors rupiah stability

An economist from Trimegah Sekuritas Indonesia, Fakhrul Fulvian, says BI's 50 basis-point rate hike is timely to restore the rupiah's stability anchor amid intensifying global pressure. He expects the rupiah to strengthen gradually toward around Rp17,300 per USD, then toward Rp16,800, contingent on coordinated fiscal policy and market reforms, including adjustments to money and bond markets.

Indonesia seeks safety of citizens held by Israel

Indonesia's Foreign Minister Sugiono has tasked embassies in Jordan, Turkey and Egypt to obtain information about nine Indonesian nationals detained by Israeli forces during a Gaza humanitarian mission. He emphasised coordinating through regional counterparts to ensure his government's messages reach Israel and to secure the safety of the volunteers and journalists involved, including three reporters from Republika and Tempo. Jakarta condemned Israel's interception of aid vessels and urged adherence to international humanitarian law to ensure the uninterrupted delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Middle East Conflict Prompts Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana to Target Southeast Asian Tourists

Indonesia's Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana says the Middle East conflict is likely to impact inbound arrivals and foreign exchange, prompting a shift to strengthen regional markets by targeting Southeast Asian and Oceania visitors. She warns that if the conflict persists, Indonesia could lose up to Rp 48.3 trillion to Rp 56.5 trillion in tourism revenue and 1.44-1.68 million international visitors in 2026, even as the government pursues a target of 16–17.6 million foreign visits. She notes strong growth in 2025 with record tourism receipts and emphasises sustainable tourism and sector collaboration.

In the Face of Marketplace Onslaught, Kramat's Official-Uniform Traders Rely on Corporate Orders

Traders in the Kramat area of Senen, Central Jakarta, who supply security and government-issue uniforms, report softer retail traffic as consumers increasingly compare prices on marketplaces. While orders from foundations and outsourcing companies provide some stability, price-sensitive production costs and the appeal of online shopping are reshaping demand for both ready-made and customised items.

Indonesian Fishermen’s Association Applauds President’s Commitment to Fishermen’s Welfare

The All Indonesia Fishermen Association (HNSI) welcomed President Prabowo Subianto’s pledge to improve fishermen’s welfare as he spoke at a DPR plenary session. The plan includes building ice factories, cold storage, fish processing units, and docking facilities, alongside support for the Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih programme; the government also aims to establish 5,000 fishermen villages over three years, with 1,386 scheduled for this year.

Formation of 750 Territorial Development Battalions, Lemhannas Governor: Planned by the Ministry of Defence

The Indonesian Ministry of Defence plans to establish 750 Territorial Development Battalions (Yon TP) across all regencies and municipalities by 2029, with Java expected to be fully served by 2026. Lemhannas Governor Tubagus Ace Hasan Syadzily says the Yon TP programme will support food security and public safety, with soldiers trained in farming alongside military skills, and aligns with the Prabowo administration’s Astacita framework to accelerate national self-sufficiency and welfare.

This is Persib Bandung's championship convoy route on Sunday 24 May

Persib Bandung prepares a victory convoy route across Bandung's historic sites if they win the 2025/2026 Super League on Sunday, with a trophy ceremony planned at Gedung Merdeka and a route from Gedung Sate to Pendopo Kota Bandung. The plan aims to showcase Bandung's heritage while emphasising crowd safety and environmental considerations ahead of a potential title celebration.

Three Mabit Schemes in Muzdalifah for Hajj Pilgrims

Three syariah-compliant mabit schemes are proposed for Muzdalifah to accommodate the world’s Hajj pilgrims while upholding religious prescriptions and safety. The first is mabit adi (normal mabit), the second mabit murur for those arriving at midnight, and the third murur rukhshah (dispensation) for pilgrims with valid impediments; the emergency scheme exempts from the dam penalty. The measures align with the Islamic principle of protecting life and aim to reduce fatigue and fatalities among pilgrims, balancing worship with safety.

Chronology of Civilian Wounded by a Ricochet During Subsidised Gas Raid Shielded by a TNI Official in Bogor

During a crackdown on subsidised gas siphoning in Bogor, the military police encountered resistance from local residents, prompting warning shots. A civilian was injured by a ricochet to the right shoulder and was treated in hospital. The incident is under investigation by Pomdam III/Siliwangi Bandung, with further details to be provided by the Kodam III/Siliwangi.

Ketua Panpel Ungkap Alasan Persija Batal Berkandang di SUGBK Vs Semen Padang

Persija Jakarta's match organising committee (Panpel) chief, Ferry Indrasjarief, explains why the Macan Kemayoran will host their final home game of the 2025-2026 Super League at Jakarta International Stadium (JIS) rather than Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK). The decision followed discussions with GBK authorities and security forces; Persija will play at JIS with limited seating and 30,000 tickets available.

3T communities and people with disabilities still struggle to access public transport

A government workshop highlighted ongoing barriers to inclusive transport in Indonesia, focusing on people with disabilities, the elderly, pregnant women, and residents of 3T areas. Officials call for faster, inclusive policy, better human resources, and cross-sector collaboration to ensure safe, accessible transport for all.

Riau forest and land fires reach 14,855 hectares as Manggala Agni warns of hard warning

Riau’s forest and land fires have swelled to about 14,855 hectares in January–April, according to satellite analyses by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, BRIN and KLH. The figure mirrors El Niño patterns seen in 2019 and is higher than counts in 2023, prompting Manggala Agni to urge heightened prevention, early detection and rapid response as the dry season approaches.

Bulog conducts MinyaKita market operations to anticipate volatility ahead of Eid al-Adha

Bulog's Regional Office for DKI Jakarta and Banten is distributing MinyaKita cooking oil to markets in Jakarta to prevent price volatility ahead of Eid al-Adha. With 30,000 litres in stock, the agency is accelerating Banpang distribution and coordinating with provincial authorities to ensure affordable staple access as Eid approaches.

Cardboard Box Suspected of Containing a Bomb Shocks Kudus Church; Contents Turn Out to Be Vegetables

A mineral water box placed outside Gereja Injili di Tanah Jawa (GITJ) Ploso in Kudus sparked a bomb scare, triggering Brimob’s Bomb Disposal Team to secure the scene. The box was found to contain vegetables, but police will continue investigating to identify the mysterious sender and motive behind the incident.

Telkom Chief touts new source of funds, just a month in and already speeding ahead

Telkom is pivoting towards its infrastructure unit as a new growth driver, with B2B Infra becoming the group’s second-largest revenue contributor in 2025. The company plans to lift external revenue via the spin-off of Infranexia and the TLKM30 strategy to tilt the revenue mix toward B2B, aiming for 25% external revenue after the first spin-off phase. Early 2026 results show external growth for Infranexia exceeding 15%, with a broader target to shift the 2030 revenue mix toward around 60-40 in favour of B2B.

Salmokji: Whispering Water becomes South Korea's all-time most-watched horror film, surpassing 3 million viewers

South Korea's Salmokji: Whispering Water has set a new box office record for horror cinema, reaching 3.17 million viewers by 20 May 2026, with filming conducted at Waduk Salmokji in Yesan, and directed by Lee Sang-min expressing relief and gratitude as critics regard the film as heralding a new generation in Korean horror.

Surabaya City Government Responds to Kopdes Taking Stock From Private Warehouse

Surabaya’s city government has clarified a viral clip showing Kopdes Merah Putih trucks loading goods from an Indomarco warehouse. Officials say the activity is part of an official partnership with PT Agrinas Pangan Nusantara and PT Indomarco, not an illegal act. The municipality emphasises its limited role, with distribution controlled centrally by Agrinas.

CORE urges strengthening of the Lay-offs Mitigation Task Force to curb lay-off risk

CORE Indonesia has urged stronger safeguarding of the Lay-offs Mitigation Task Force to act as an early warning system against rising redundancies amid global pressures. The report The PHK Storm (Not Yet Over) calls for sharper mandates, real-time data monitoring from BPJS Ketenagakerjaan, industry capacity use, online vacancy indices, and monthly labour-hour reporting, plus cross-ministerial rapid responses for firms under cost and cash-flow pressure. It also emphasises delivering the Job Loss Protection (JKP) programme effectively, now reinforced by Government Regulation No. 6 of 2025, which provides 60 per cent of salary for up to six months, training, and access to job vacancy information.

Once Thought Extinct, the Tonkin Snub-nosed Monkey Population Has Tripled

A survey by Fauna & Flora International finds that the Tonkin snub-nosed monkey at Khau Ca, Vietnam, has increased from about 50 individuals in 2002 to around 160 today, more than tripling the population. The Critically Endangered species now finds safety within a reserve, providing renewed hope and a model for community-based conservation in Vietnamese forests; the monkeys are shy and under threat from hunting and habitat loss.

Pocong Sighting in Ciputat, South Tangerang: Police Suspect a Costumed Street Entertainer

Police in Ciputat Timur are investigating reports of a 'pocong' figure, but authorities believe it may simply be a costumed street performer rather than an alarming threat. They are increasing patrols with the TNI and community, and urge residents not to panic, reporting any suspicious activity via the 110 call centre or the Ciputat Timur Police Station hotline.